The Bottom-Up Revolution https://littlethings.strongtowns.org The Bottom-Up Revolution features the stories of the Strong Towns movement in action. Hosted by Tiffany Owens Reed and Norm Van Eeden Petersman, it's all about how regular people have stepped up to make their communities more economically resilient, and how others can implement these ideas in their own places. We’ll talk about taking concrete action steps, connecting with fellow advocates to build power, and surviving the bumps along the way—all in the pursuit of creating stronger towns. Each episode features a Strong Towns advocate who is making positive change in their community.

]]> Tue, 07 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0500 https://podbean.com/?v=5.5 en Copyright 2020 All rights reserved. Society & Culture 1440 episodic This podcast features stories of the Strong Towns movement in action. Hosted by Tiffany Owens Reed, it’s all about how regular people have stepped up to make their communities more economically resilient, and how others can implement these ideas in their own places. We’ll talk about taking concrete action steps, connecting with fellow advocates to build power, and surviving the bumps along the way—all in the pursuit of creating stronger towns. Strong Towns Strong Towns No false https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/3433634/BUR_logo_-_2022_updatebpjb6.jpg The Bottom-Up Revolution https://littlethings.strongtowns.org 144 144 Defying Deficit Narratives with Youth Pilot Projects Defying Deficit Narratives with Youth Pilot Projects https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/defying-deficit-narratives-with-scarborough-youth-pilot-projects/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/defying-deficit-narratives-with-scarborough-youth-pilot-projects/#comments Tue, 07 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/10623eb8-d2e0-3485-bf42-e34ef2551d87 In this episode, Uthish Ganesh tells the story of returning to teach in the neighborhood where he grew up and refusing to accept his school’s bad reputation. From a boys’ group with a perfect graduation rate to a student-run food program serving hundreds of families, he shows what happens when you stop believing deficit narratives and raise the bar instead.

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]]> In this episode, Uthish Ganesh tells the story of returning to teach in the neighborhood where he grew up and refusing to accept his school’s bad reputation. From a boys’ group with a perfect graduation rate to a student-run food program serving hundreds of families, he shows what happens when you stop believing deficit narratives and raise the bar instead.

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This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 1409 241 full Tree Canopies, Safe Speeds, and a Council Seat Tree Canopies, Safe Speeds, and a Council Seat https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/tree-canopies-safe-speeds-and-a-council-seat/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/tree-canopies-safe-speeds-and-a-council-seat/#comments Thu, 02 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/11ffc006-6083-3de4-be8c-de8da185abc6 Emma Durand-Wood never planned on public office. But what began as challenging a pawn shop, planting trees, and pushing for safer speeds in her Winnipeg neighborhood grew into coalitions and, eventually, a successful run for local office. She talks about stepping into the role, facing the information fire hose, and keeping family and community at the center.

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]]> Emma Durand-Wood never planned on public office. But what began as challenging a pawn shop, planting trees, and pushing for safer speeds in her Winnipeg neighborhood grew into coalitions and, eventually, a successful run for local office. She talks about stepping into the role, facing the information fire hose, and keeping family and community at the center.

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]]> Strong Towns false No 2070 240 full Why Cities Need Community Led Crash Analysis Studios Why Cities Need Community Led Crash Analysis Studios https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/why-cities-need-community-led-crash-analysis-studios/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/why-cities-need-community-led-crash-analysis-studios/#comments Tue, 31 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/b8cfe905-6f01-3e98-a4d3-c290c4106878 Most crash analysis studios didn’t start inside City Hall—they were sparked by local members, neighbors, and conversation leaders who refused to accept dangerous streets as normal. Instead of waiting on the next grant cycle, Strong Towns is helping cities take small, fast steps at their most dangerous intersections through community-led crash analysis studios. Norm and Edward share how this work tests changes on the ground, builds data, and supports local champions both inside and outside city government.

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]]> Most crash analysis studios didn’t start inside City Hall—they were sparked by local members, neighbors, and conversation leaders who refused to accept dangerous streets as normal. Instead of waiting on the next grant cycle, Strong Towns is helping cities take small, fast steps at their most dangerous intersections through community-led crash analysis studios. Norm and Edward share how this work tests changes on the ground, builds data, and supports local champions both inside and outside city government.

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]]> Strong Towns false No 1191 239 full Restarting a Strong Towns Local Conversation Restarting a Strong Towns Local Conversation https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/building-a-strong-towns-movement-in-madison-neighborhoods/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/building-a-strong-towns-movement-in-madison-neighborhoods/#comments Thu, 26 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/35513ae9-a686-3958-9f95-56b2e0c24fd7 In this episode, Josh Olson reflects on how he and others helped bring a Strong Towns local conversation group back to life in Madison, and kept it going with simple habits like reserving the same library room each month. It explores the projects that grew out of that effort, including safer street trials, Parking Day, and support for a major housing reform package. As the group took on these projects, members built relationships with city staff, showed up to public meetings, and pushed for small, low-cost changes—like turning a peak-hour traffic lane into parking—that the city implemented within months.

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]]> In this episode, Josh Olson reflects on how he and others helped bring a Strong Towns local conversation group back to life in Madison, and kept it going with simple habits like reserving the same library room each month. It explores the projects that grew out of that effort, including safer street trials, Parking Day, and support for a major housing reform package. As the group took on these projects, members built relationships with city staff, showed up to public meetings, and pushed for small, low-cost changes—like turning a peak-hour traffic lane into parking—that the city implemented within months.

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]]> Strong Towns false No 2987 238 full Inside West Allis's Playbook for Stronger Local Economies Inside West Allis's Playbook for Stronger Local Economies https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/inside-west-allis-playbook-for-stronger-local-economies/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/inside-west-allis-playbook-for-stronger-local-economies/#comments Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/d75e36ae-6231-3051-91f8-e85513ddc4b2 Steve Schaer and Patrick Schloss share how landlocked, eleven‑square‑mile West Allis, Wisconsin has become one of metro Milwaukee’s most business‑friendly cities by growing from within after major factory closures. They trace the community’s path from brownfields and aging corridors to adaptive reuse, new housing, and lively main streets filled with independent shops, coffee houses, and breweries. Along the way, they highlight zoning shifts, creative financing tools, arts events, transportation academies, and on‑the‑ground outreach that together have changed the city’s trajectory.

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]]> Steve Schaer and Patrick Schloss share how landlocked, eleven‑square‑mile West Allis, Wisconsin has become one of metro Milwaukee’s most business‑friendly cities by growing from within after major factory closures. They trace the community’s path from brownfields and aging corridors to adaptive reuse, new housing, and lively main streets filled with independent shops, coffee houses, and breweries. Along the way, they highlight zoning shifts, creative financing tools, arts events, transportation academies, and on‑the‑ground outreach that together have changed the city’s trajectory.

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]]> Strong Towns false No 1142 237 full From Parklets To Pilots, Sheboygan Reclaims Its Streets From Parklets To Pilots, Sheboygan Reclaims Its Streets https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/from-parklets-to-pilots-sheboygan-reclaims-its-streets/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/from-parklets-to-pilots-sheboygan-reclaims-its-streets/#comments Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/ed216194-bcc4-309e-a01b-b52952efb71c Brian Kelly and Braden Schmidt went from curious residents to leaders helping redesign streets, modernize zoning, and unlock safer, more affordable neighborhoods in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. In this conversation, they share how modest first steps—showing up to meetings, testing a parklet, repurposing old materials—grow into city‑wide change. Their story traces the path from tentative beginnings to a community that’s learning, iterating, and steadily becoming stronger.

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]]> Brian Kelly and Braden Schmidt went from curious residents to leaders helping redesign streets, modernize zoning, and unlock safer, more affordable neighborhoods in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. In this conversation, they share how modest first steps—showing up to meetings, testing a parklet, repurposing old materials—grow into city‑wide change. Their story traces the path from tentative beginnings to a community that’s learning, iterating, and steadily becoming stronger.

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]]> Strong Towns false No 1039 236 full From ADUs To Improv Chicago Builds Stronger Streets From ADUs To Improv Chicago Builds Stronger Streets https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/yeeee/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/yeeee/#comments Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/e51a67e3-841e-3d38-b387-b8490bee8c58 Chicago organizers Ellen Steinke and Dr. Chloe Groome walk through the fight to re-legalize ADUs, fix single-family zoning, and head off a looming transit fiscal cliff. They recount the campaign to save transit funding, including a sketch-driven show that turned insider debates about the Road Fund into something regular Chicagoans could act on. The episode follows their blend of detailed policy work, neighborhood organizing, and improv-rooted comedy.

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]]> Chicago organizers Ellen Steinke and Dr. Chloe Groome walk through the fight to re-legalize ADUs, fix single-family zoning, and head off a looming transit fiscal cliff. They recount the campaign to save transit funding, including a sketch-driven show that turned insider debates about the Road Fund into something regular Chicagoans could act on. The episode follows their blend of detailed policy work, neighborhood organizing, and improv-rooted comedy.

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This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 1210 235 full How Madison Turned Small Experiments Into Safer Streets How Madison Turned Small Experiments Into Safer Streets https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-madison-wisconsin-turned-small-experiments-into-safer-streets/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-madison-wisconsin-turned-small-experiments-into-safer-streets/#comments Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/9832003a-276b-36e2-8df0-87e1d518db1f After repeated crashes into a beloved coffee shop, residents in Madison, Wisconsin pushed for a fast, inexpensive lane change instead of another long, consultant‑driven process. Josh Olson explains how neighbors gathered speed data, won a two‑month trial, and helped make the change permanent. Along the way, he shares how that work fed into broader safety goals, housing reforms, and a shift from “why don’t we” to “how can we.”

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]]> After repeated crashes into a beloved coffee shop, residents in Madison, Wisconsin pushed for a fast, inexpensive lane change instead of another long, consultant‑driven process. Josh Olson explains how neighbors gathered speed data, won a two‑month trial, and helped make the change permanent. Along the way, he shares how that work fed into broader safety goals, housing reforms, and a shift from “why don’t we” to “how can we.”

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This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 1074 234 full Building Community With The Neighbors You Already Have Building Community With The Neighbors You Already Have https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/building-community-with-the-neighbors-you-already-have/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/building-community-with-the-neighbors-you-already-have/#comments Thu, 19 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/82437c49-4c98-30b4-9776-7620be1918a5 When Graham McBain moved to Sacramento, he realized he had no local friends—just nearby houses. In this episode, he shares the simple, sometimes scary steps that turned that street into block parties, front-yard hangouts, and kids biking freely between homes. The conversation traces that change on his block and highlights practical ways to start building community where you live, with the people already around you.

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]]> When Graham McBain moved to Sacramento, he realized he had no local friends—just nearby houses. In this episode, he shares the simple, sometimes scary steps that turned that street into block parties, front-yard hangouts, and kids biking freely between homes. The conversation traces that change on his block and highlights practical ways to start building community where you live, with the people already around you.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 3323 233 full How Vibrant Lafayette Organizes Parents for Safer Streets How Vibrant Lafayette Organizes Parents for Safer Streets https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-vibrant-lafayette-organizes-parents-for-safer-streets/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-vibrant-lafayette-organizes-parents-for-safer-streets/#comments Tue, 17 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/fb3d7de8-f2a5-3192-b031-867e589e605b Most parents worry about safer routes to school but can’t track every plan or attend every meeting. In Lafayette, Kirk Wandy and Brian Parsons help lead Vibrant Lafayette in doing the legwork—digging into projects like the School Street path, meeting with staff, and then giving busy families clear, targeted ways to show up when it matters most.

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]]> Most parents worry about safer routes to school but can’t track every plan or attend every meeting. In Lafayette, Kirk Wandy and Brian Parsons help lead Vibrant Lafayette in doing the legwork—digging into projects like the School Street path, meeting with staff, and then giving busy families clear, targeted ways to show up when it matters most.

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This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 1267 232 full Starting Where You Stand: The Great Raleigh Cleanup Story Starting Where You Stand: The Great Raleigh Cleanup Story https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/starting-where-you-stand-the-great-raleigh-cleanup-story/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/starting-where-you-stand-the-great-raleigh-cleanup-story/#comments Thu, 12 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/bfea6913-2f55-3ca5-8ac6-6c0df9292369 Instead of waiting for permission or a grand plan, Preston Ross III started picking up trash on his own block—and kept going. Learn how that simple habit evolved into a nonprofit, a workforce program for unhoused neighbors, and a practical playbook for taking action in your town.

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]]> Instead of waiting for permission or a grand plan, Preston Ross III started picking up trash on his own block—and kept going. Learn how that simple habit evolved into a nonprofit, a workforce program for unhoused neighbors, and a practical playbook for taking action in your town.

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This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

 

]]> Strong Towns false No 2435 231 full What Jasper Teaches Us About Beating Mega Projects What Jasper Teaches Us About Beating Mega Projects https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/what-jasper-teaches-us-about-beating-mega-projects/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/what-jasper-teaches-us-about-beating-mega-projects/#comments Tue, 10 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/5aecf38e-de5d-383d-a6b2-0e7557db471d A small Indiana city took on a 54‑mile, $3.4 billion highway with yard signs, town halls, and hard numbers. Mark Nowotarski traces six years of grassroots organizing against the MidStates Corridor, from local resistance in Dubois County to growing pressure at the State House. Along the way, Jasper’s story shows how a community can push back when a mega‑project threatens its future and quality of life.

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]]> A small Indiana city took on a 54‑mile, $3.4 billion highway with yard signs, town halls, and hard numbers. Mark Nowotarski traces six years of grassroots organizing against the MidStates Corridor, from local resistance in Dubois County to growing pressure at the State House. Along the way, Jasper’s story shows how a community can push back when a mega‑project threatens its future and quality of life.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 1225 230 full Building Culture Around Beauty, Craft, And Daily Life Building Culture Around Beauty, Craft, And Daily Life https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/building-culture-around-beauty-craft-and-daily-life/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/building-culture-around-beauty-craft-and-daily-life/#comments Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/dc69ce4e-9e33-32b8-8e72-d76de595c254 In an era of quick, generic construction, Austin Tunnell makes the case for caring about beauty and craft. He shares lessons from masonry, small‑scale development, and his own projects on creating places people actually enjoy using every day.

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]]> In an era of quick, generic construction, Austin Tunnell makes the case for caring about beauty and craft. He shares lessons from masonry, small‑scale development, and his own projects on creating places people actually enjoy using every day.

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This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 3032 229 full How One Front Yard Became a Neighborhood Pop Up How One Front Yard Became a Neighborhood Pop Up https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-one-front-yard-became-a-neighborhood-pop-up/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-one-front-yard-became-a-neighborhood-pop-up/#comments Tue, 03 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/e2852b71-4806-3736-b315-88e7529af36d Discover how Denton mom and civic advocate Lauren Penn turned her front yard into a thriving micro market for local makers and families, all without a big budget. She shares what it took, from permits and vendors to a rainy launch day, and how a small, homegrown experiment can help knit a neighborhood together.

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]]> Discover how Denton mom and civic advocate Lauren Penn turned her front yard into a thriving micro market for local makers and families, all without a big budget. She shares what it took, from permits and vendors to a rainy launch day, and how a small, homegrown experiment can help knit a neighborhood together.

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This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 1316 228 full From Empty Lots to Budget Gaps: Mapping Portland From Empty Lots to Budget Gaps: Mapping Portland https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/from-empty-lots-to-budget-gaps-mapping-portland/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/from-empty-lots-to-budget-gaps-mapping-portland/#comments Thu, 26 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/a35eaaa9-8d52-32ad-aa25-5c0d879d0584 Downtown Portland is full of vacant lots, surface parking, and struggling storefronts—and every one of them has a price tag. Sam and Jeremiah break down how they estimated the city’s road and pipe costs, modeled new tax revenue from redeveloping a downtown highway, and started pushing for a vacancy fee. Their approach offers a clear template for linking land use to your city’s bottom line.

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]]> Downtown Portland is full of vacant lots, surface parking, and struggling storefronts—and every one of them has a price tag. Sam and Jeremiah break down how they estimated the city’s road and pipe costs, modeled new tax revenue from redeveloping a downtown highway, and started pushing for a vacancy fee. Their approach offers a clear template for linking land use to your city’s bottom line.

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This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 3533 227 full From Biostatistics to Better Streets in Fayetteville From Biostatistics to Better Streets in Fayetteville https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/from-biostatistics-to-better-streets-in-fayetteville/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/from-biostatistics-to-better-streets-in-fayetteville/#comments Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/9cee8acc-84fa-373e-bd9f-6cee8cb6782c After moving through nine states, Aaron Caldwell chose Fayetteville as home—and started using his data skills to decode city finances and a key local bond. In this episode, his work on a modest South Fayetteville infill project, close collaboration with city staff, and a growing circle of locals working to make the city more resilient show what Strong Towns looks like through one resident’s life.

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]]> After moving through nine states, Aaron Caldwell chose Fayetteville as home—and started using his data skills to decode city finances and a key local bond. In this episode, his work on a modest South Fayetteville infill project, close collaboration with city staff, and a growing circle of locals working to make the city more resilient show what Strong Towns looks like through one resident’s life.

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This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 1100 226 full How One Tiny House Helped Shift Boise’s Housing Rules How One Tiny House Helped Shift Boise’s Housing Rules https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-one-tiny-house-helped-shift-boise-s-housing-rules/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-one-tiny-house-helped-shift-boise-s-housing-rules/#comments Thu, 19 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/a875cea0-bb20-3e44-9fcf-fcb3100ea921 After the recession upended her architecture career, building a tiny house on wheels helped Macy Miller recover financially and dramatically lower her housing costs. She shares what that decision has opened up for her family—more freedom, more flexibility, and a life that better fits their values—and why similar options could matter for many others. When her small home in a central Boise neighborhood drew attention at city hall, Macy stayed in the conversation, helping the city pilot and eventually change its rules to make room for legal tiny houses.

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]]> After the recession upended her architecture career, building a tiny house on wheels helped Macy Miller recover financially and dramatically lower her housing costs. She shares what that decision has opened up for her family—more freedom, more flexibility, and a life that better fits their values—and why similar options could matter for many others. When her small home in a central Boise neighborhood drew attention at city hall, Macy stayed in the conversation, helping the city pilot and eventually change its rules to make room for legal tiny houses.

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This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 3074 225 full Walking, Visibility, And One Mom’s Fight For Safer Streets Walking, Visibility, And One Mom’s Fight For Safer Streets https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/walking-visibility-and-one-mom-s-fight-for-safer-streets/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/walking-visibility-and-one-mom-s-fight-for-safer-streets/#comments Tue, 17 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/bd5a043d-b19a-38ba-842e-f440108843a9 After seeing a neighbor struck by a car — again — Abigail Hoiland set out to make people walking impossible to overlook. She shares how Stop Umbrella works on real crosswalks and how one quirky tool can spark bigger conversations about community, walking, and safer streets.

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]]> After seeing a neighbor struck by a car — again — Abigail Hoiland set out to make people walking impossible to overlook. She shares how Stop Umbrella works on real crosswalks and how one quirky tool can spark bigger conversations about community, walking, and safer streets.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 1190 224 full How One Ballot Initiative Could Legalize Affordable Starter Homes How One Ballot Initiative Could Legalize Affordable Starter Homes https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-one-ballot-initiative-could-legalize-affordable-starter-homes/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-one-ballot-initiative-could-legalize-affordable-starter-homes/#comments Tue, 10 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/1a8daeef-4c09-3253-93e1-581e6dd269d5 Andrew Mikula is leading a grassroots campaign to put affordable housing on the Massachusetts ballot in 2026. The initiative would legalize single-family homes on smaller lots. Today, he shares how he's building a broad coalition — from bankers to housing advocates — to make incremental, family-oriented housing reform possible.

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]]> Andrew Mikula is leading a grassroots campaign to put affordable housing on the Massachusetts ballot in 2026. The initiative would legalize single-family homes on smaller lots. Today, he shares how he's building a broad coalition — from bankers to housing advocates — to make incremental, family-oriented housing reform possible.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 1032 223 full How Do You Build Safe Streets in Car-Dependent Places? How Do You Build Safe Streets in Car-Dependent Places? https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-do-you-build-safe-streets-in-car-dependent-places/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-do-you-build-safe-streets-in-car-dependent-places/#comments Thu, 05 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/9e836191-ff79-31cd-95b5-c136440d4fae Columbia, South Carolina, is the 12th deadliest metro for pedestrians in America. Columbia resident Regan Freeman is working to change that, as the director of a statewide pedestrian and bicycle safety nonprofit. Regan explains how he’s making progress despite the challenges — by meeting people where they are, showing what’s possible, and working both locally and at the state level.

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]]> Columbia, South Carolina, is the 12th deadliest metro for pedestrians in America. Columbia resident Regan Freeman is working to change that, as the director of a statewide pedestrian and bicycle safety nonprofit. Regan explains how he’s making progress despite the challenges — by meeting people where they are, showing what’s possible, and working both locally and at the state level.

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]]> Strong Towns false No 2766 222 full How Floor Plans Drive Families from Cities (and What Helps Them Stay) How Floor Plans Drive Families from Cities (and What Helps Them Stay) https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-floor-plans-drive-families-from-cities-and-what-helps-them-stay/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-floor-plans-drive-families-from-cities-and-what-helps-them-stay/#comments Thu, 29 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/3f367001-a00f-3f29-ae42-12bcb07c5cdb Most city apartments are designed for roommates, not families with babies. Bobby Fijan, co-founder of The American Housing Corporation, explains how floor plans force parents out of cities — and how to help young families stay in the neighborhoods they love.

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]]> Most city apartments are designed for roommates, not families with babies. Bobby Fijan, co-founder of The American Housing Corporation, explains how floor plans force parents out of cities — and how to help young families stay in the neighborhoods they love.

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This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 2973 221 full Bringing the Strong Towns Conversation to a Growing City Bringing the Strong Towns Conversation to a Growing City https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bringing-the-strong-towns-conversation-to-a-growing-city/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bringing-the-strong-towns-conversation-to-a-growing-city/#comments Tue, 27 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/488107a4-133a-3680-b942-97c264b552d4 Nick Frevold launched a Strong Towns Local Conversation in Huntsville, Alabama — and found more demand than he expected. He shares what it took to get started, build relationships, and turn concern into real momentum.

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This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Nick Frevold launched a Strong Towns Local Conversation in Huntsville, Alabama — and found more demand than he expected. He shares what it took to get started, build relationships, and turn concern into real momentum.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 921 220 full Is Crowdfunding A Good Way To Fund Local Projects? Is Crowdfunding A Good Way To Fund Local Projects? https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/is-crowdfunding-a-good-way-to-fund-local-projects/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/is-crowdfunding-a-good-way-to-fund-local-projects/#comments Thu, 22 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/e374cfee-db09-338a-9f4f-805d65fd3ff1 What if your neighborhood could raise the money it needs without waiting for grants or traditional funding? Kathleen Minogue, founder of Crowdfund Better, explains how crowdfunding builds financial resilience while strengthening community bonds and local ownership.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> What if your neighborhood could raise the money it needs without waiting for grants or traditional funding? Kathleen Minogue, founder of Crowdfund Better, explains how crowdfunding builds financial resilience while strengthening community bonds and local ownership.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 2471 219 full The Best Street Safety Win Is One Nobody Notices The Best Street Safety Win Is One Nobody Notices https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/the-best-street-safety-win-is-one-nobody-notices/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/the-best-street-safety-win-is-one-nobody-notices/#comments Tue, 20 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/4e5044e8-451b-3cef-b42f-571798ded2fc Some of the most important street safety victories don’t make the news.

After a personal tragedy, Josh Stewart devoted himself to making streets safer. Today, he shares hard-earned lessons about how change really happens — and why patience and small experiments matter more than headlines.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Some of the most important street safety victories don’t make the news.

After a personal tragedy, Josh Stewart devoted himself to making streets safer. Today, he shares hard-earned lessons about how change really happens — and why patience and small experiments matter more than headlines.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES


This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Thank you!

]]> Strong Towns false No 965 218 full Can Free Range Parenting Work in the Modern City? Can Free Range Parenting Work in the Modern City? https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/can-free-range-parenting-work-in-the-modern-city/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/can-free-range-parenting-work-in-the-modern-city/#comments Thu, 15 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/8da21c62-6230-3b7b-9314-eed16ea0b13b When a nine-year-old rides the subway alone, is that neglect or normal childhood? Lenore Skenazy, a speaker, writer, and reality show host who was once dubbed "America's worst mom," makes the case for why kids need more independence and shares tactics for how parents can give it to them in the modern city or suburb.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> When a nine-year-old rides the subway alone, is that neglect or normal childhood? Lenore Skenazy, a speaker, writer, and reality show host who was once dubbed "America's worst mom," makes the case for why kids need more independence and shares tactics for how parents can give it to them in the modern city or suburb.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 4046 217 full How To Avoid Burnout by Bringing Joy Into Your Advocacy How To Avoid Burnout by Bringing Joy Into Your Advocacy https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-avoid-burnout-by-bringing-joy-into-your-advocacy/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-avoid-burnout-by-bringing-joy-into-your-advocacy/#comments Tue, 13 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/9a102826-79b6-3535-bb4a-4814befb0322 Strong Towns Chicago learned that fun isn't frivolous — it's essential for sustainable advocacy. Leader Alex Montero shares how the Local Conversation group uses urbanist comedy, neighborhood tours, and social events to keep volunteers energized and engaged while winning real policy changes.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns Chicago learned that fun isn't frivolous — it's essential for sustainable advocacy. Leader Alex Montero shares how the Local Conversation group uses urbanist comedy, neighborhood tours, and social events to keep volunteers energized and engaged while winning real policy changes.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1406 216 full How Small Projects Can Expose Big City Problems How Small Projects Can Expose Big City Problems https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-small-projects-can-expose-big-city-problems/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-small-projects-can-expose-big-city-problems/#comments Thu, 08 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/17e1de5d-b5c8-3bea-968c-d677468dcef8 Jennifer Truman didn’t set out to be a housing or transit advocate, but after running into the same problems while designing small projects in Raleigh, North Carolina, she started asking bigger questions. In this episode, she explains how noticing friction in everyday work led to her involvement in zoning reform, transit leadership, and launching a pro-housing movement.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

‍

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Jennifer Truman didn’t set out to be a housing or transit advocate, but after running into the same problems while designing small projects in Raleigh, North Carolina, she started asking bigger questions. In this episode, she explains how noticing friction in everyday work led to her involvement in zoning reform, transit leadership, and launching a pro-housing movement.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

‍

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 3260 215 full How Love of Place Grows Into Community Leadership How Love of Place Grows Into Community Leadership https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-love-of-place-grows-into-community-leadership/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-love-of-place-grows-into-community-leadership/#comments Thu, 18 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/290b38bc-035d-3cb4-91e5-52990e878be6 What does it look like to actively love the place you live? Tiffany Owens Reed talks with New Haven Alder Caroline Tanbee Smith about community-building, public space, and how small, people-powered projects grow into lasting civic impact.

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This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> What does it look like to actively love the place you live? Tiffany Owens Reed talks with New Haven Alder Caroline Tanbee Smith about community-building, public space, and how small, people-powered projects grow into lasting civic impact.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 4063 214 full How a One-Stop Website Could Help Beat the Housing Crisis How a One-Stop Website Could Help Beat the Housing Crisis https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-a-one-stop-website-could-help-beat-the-housing-crisis/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-a-one-stop-website-could-help-beat-the-housing-crisis/#comments Tue, 16 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/2e14e687-0b90-36bd-bcfd-3698afecdef2 Norm sits down with Connor Legros, an undergrad student studying city planning and administration. Connor explains how he's creating a one-stop-shop for building backyard cottages in Flagstaff, Arizona. He shares how better guidance and streamlined approvals can support local housing and reduce the burden on city staff.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Norm sits down with Connor Legros, an undergrad student studying city planning and administration. Connor explains how he's creating a one-stop-shop for building backyard cottages in Flagstaff, Arizona. He shares how better guidance and streamlined approvals can support local housing and reduce the burden on city staff.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1015 213 full Small Wins, Big Transformations: Introducing Mary Kate Norton Small Wins, Big Transformations: Introducing Mary Kate Norton https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/small-wins-big-transformations-introducing-mary-kate-norton/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/small-wins-big-transformations-introducing-mary-kate-norton/#comments Tue, 09 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/d312817a-044a-304b-aad2-be228f50081c In this special episode, Norm introduces Mary Kate Norton, Strong Towns' new Mobilization Coordinator and Trainer. Mary Kate shares about her background in grassroots organizing, leadership development, and coalition building. She also offers some tips for people hoping to make change in their communities.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> In this special episode, Norm introduces Mary Kate Norton, Strong Towns' new Mobilization Coordinator and Trainer. Mary Kate shares about her background in grassroots organizing, leadership development, and coalition building. She also offers some tips for people hoping to make change in their communities.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1057 212 full How To Get Local Businesses On Board With Street Safety How To Get Local Businesses On Board With Street Safety https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-get-local-businesses-on-board-with-street-safety/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-get-local-businesses-on-board-with-street-safety/#comments Thu, 04 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/10cd99d3-c327-3114-92ac-596ff2130c98 When a tragic car crash forced street safety changes in Chattanooga, Tennessee, local businesses panicked about losing customers. But they soon discovered that foot traffic beats car traffic every time.

Emily Thompson, entrepreneur, author, and marketing chair of the North Shore Merchant Collective, explains how she helped push for increasing walkability and reclaiming space for people — and how those efforts made surrounding businesses more successful.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> When a tragic car crash forced street safety changes in Chattanooga, Tennessee, local businesses panicked about losing customers. But they soon discovered that foot traffic beats car traffic every time.

Emily Thompson, entrepreneur, author, and marketing chair of the North Shore Merchant Collective, explains how she helped push for increasing walkability and reclaiming space for people — and how those efforts made surrounding businesses more successful.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 3263 211 full How a Georgia City Made Missing Middle Housing Legal How a Georgia City Made Missing Middle Housing Legal https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-a-georgia-city-made-missing-middle-housing-legal/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-a-georgia-city-made-missing-middle-housing-legal/#comments Tue, 02 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/2ab2e5ca-f541-35c3-8bac-2733792a90f6 What happens when a planner stops following broken rules and starts rewriting them instead?

Brad Callender, director of planning and zoning for Monroe, Georgia, legalized the housing people actually need. Duplexes and backyard cottages are now popping up across town. He joins Norm today to explain how he did it as a department of one.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> What happens when a planner stops following broken rules and starts rewriting them instead?

Brad Callender, director of planning and zoning for Monroe, Georgia, legalized the housing people actually need. Duplexes and backyard cottages are now popping up across town. He joins Norm today to explain how he did it as a department of one.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1140 210 full How Bike Buses and Walkable Streets Help Kids Thrive How Bike Buses and Walkable Streets Help Kids Thrive https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-bike-buses-and-walkable-streets-help-kids-thrive/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-bike-buses-and-walkable-streets-help-kids-thrive/#comments Thu, 27 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/d9766961-f3e4-3d18-9642-d52aa2fb1ba4 Megan Ramey has advocated for kid-friendly transportation for over a decade, culminating in her role as the Safe Routes to School Manager for Hood River County, Oregon.

Megan and Tiffany discuss the importance of walkability and bikeability for children, and Megan shares lessons she's learned from advocating in cities as big as Boston and towns as small as Hood River.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Megan Ramey has advocated for kid-friendly transportation for over a decade, culminating in her role as the Safe Routes to School Manager for Hood River County, Oregon.

Megan and Tiffany discuss the importance of walkability and bikeability for children, and Megan shares lessons she's learned from advocating in cities as big as Boston and towns as small as Hood River.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 3598 209 full The Money Angle: How To Win Over Skeptics The Money Angle: How To Win Over Skeptics https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/the-money-angle-how-to-win-over-skeptics/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/the-money-angle-how-to-win-over-skeptics/#comments Tue, 25 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/25bb0230-af29-3d87-b2a1-4c69b763fb62 Your downtown isn't a money pit — it's a money pot. When Medicine Hat, Alberta, discovered the real financial value of traditional urban form, it sparked something bigger: a grassroots movement that's now changing who runs city hall. Superintendent of Planning Shawn Champagne joins Norm to discuss small bets, fiscal resilience, and why bottom-up change actually works.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Your downtown isn't a money pit — it's a money pot. When Medicine Hat, Alberta, discovered the real financial value of traditional urban form, it sparked something bigger: a grassroots movement that's now changing who runs city hall. Superintendent of Planning Shawn Champagne joins Norm to discuss small bets, fiscal resilience, and why bottom-up change actually works.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1251 208 full How To Activate Volunteers and Build Trust at the Neighborhood Level How To Activate Volunteers and Build Trust at the Neighborhood Level https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-activate-volunteers-and-build-trust-at-the-neighborhood-level/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-activate-volunteers-and-build-trust-at-the-neighborhood-level/#comments Thu, 20 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/9ef6543a-c5c5-31d4-82af-a9d875715fd4 In her day job, Victoria Via is an architect who designs affordable housing. In her off hours, she's one of the leaders of a powerhouse Local Conversation in Portland, Oregon. Victoria joins Tiffany to explain what affordable housing has in common with luxury projects and how Strong Towns PDX is working with neighborhood groups and city officials to transform Portland for the better.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> In her day job, Victoria Via is an architect who designs affordable housing. In her off hours, she's one of the leaders of a powerhouse Local Conversation in Portland, Oregon. Victoria joins Tiffany to explain what affordable housing has in common with luxury projects and how Strong Towns PDX is working with neighborhood groups and city officials to transform Portland for the better.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 2216 207 full How To Turn Public Data Into Stories That Drive Change How To Turn Public Data Into Stories That Drive Change https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-turn-public-data-into-stories-that-drive-change/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-turn-public-data-into-stories-that-drive-change/#comments Tue, 18 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/9de1d2bc-8689-365b-a094-1829697fbc29 What happens when a data analyst starts studying their hometown's finances? For Karl Urich, it meant seeing Albany, New York, in a whole new light. Karl shares how he makes intimidating financial statements accessible to everyone, why unbiased storytelling matters more than gotcha journalism, and practical tips for aspiring data storytellers.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> What happens when a data analyst starts studying their hometown's finances? For Karl Urich, it meant seeing Albany, New York, in a whole new light. Karl shares how he makes intimidating financial statements accessible to everyone, why unbiased storytelling matters more than gotcha journalism, and practical tips for aspiring data storytellers.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1230 206 full How To Design Urban Places That People Love How To Design Urban Places That People Love https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-design-urban-places-that-people-love/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-design-urban-places-that-people-love/#comments Thu, 13 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/cafcae65-38c5-3845-8199-64c00615c274 Why do some places make us want to stay forever while others repel us? In honor of Member Week, we're bringing back a great episode with architect Will McCollum. He explores the timeless principles of urbanism, why we need to democratize that knowledge again, and how understanding cities helps us understand what it means to be human.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Why do some places make us want to stay forever while others repel us? In honor of Member Week, we're bringing back a great episode with architect Will McCollum. He explores the timeless principles of urbanism, why we need to democratize that knowledge again, and how understanding cities helps us understand what it means to be human.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 3759 205 full What 50 Interviews Taught Me About Community Action What 50 Interviews Taught Me About Community Action https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/what-50-interviews-taught-me-about-community-action/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/what-50-interviews-taught-me-about-community-action/#comments Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/53747061-aaca-34da-ae70-844b4e80dea4 Strong Towns members are doing remarkable things in their communities, but none of it requires magic abilities. Norm shares what he's learned from 50 interviews — and explains how you can get involved.

Additional Show Notes ]]> Strong Towns members are doing remarkable things in their communities, but none of it requires magic abilities. Norm shares what he's learned from 50 interviews — and explains how you can get involved.

Additional Show Notes ]]> Strong Towns false No 1047 204 full How to Talk About Street Safety So People Actually Listen How to Talk About Street Safety So People Actually Listen https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-talk-about-street-safety-so-people-actually-listen/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-talk-about-street-safety-so-people-actually-listen/#comments Thu, 06 Nov 2025 11:00:12 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/a35cb7b1-7972-30eb-b8b0-1aa114cd4dcc Many cities will greenlight a billion-dollar highway but struggle to paint a crosswalk. Liza Burkin has spent 12 years changing that through advocacy, private consulting, and federal policymaking. The founder of Providence Streets Coalition, she joins Tiffany to share hard-won lessons on political navigation and practical tools anyone can use to start transforming their streets.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

Hey listener! You hear from us all the time, but today we want to hear from you. We want your feedback on this podcast and any other Strong Towns podcast you like to listen to. Please fill out this quick survey to share your thoughts: strongtowns.org/survey

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Many cities will greenlight a billion-dollar highway but struggle to paint a crosswalk. Liza Burkin has spent 12 years changing that through advocacy, private consulting, and federal policymaking. The founder of Providence Streets Coalition, she joins Tiffany to share hard-won lessons on political navigation and practical tools anyone can use to start transforming their streets.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

Hey listener! You hear from us all the time, but today we want to hear from you. We want your feedback on this podcast and any other Strong Towns podcast you like to listen to. Please fill out this quick survey to share your thoughts: strongtowns.org/survey

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 3395 203 full How to Turn Small Community Actions Into a Big Impact How to Turn Small Community Actions Into a Big Impact https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-turn-small-community-actions-into-a-big-impact/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-turn-small-community-actions-into-a-big-impact/#comments Tue, 04 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/fbb55ee5-dceb-38b8-99d8-55aae1fedcc7 Dr. Shakeel Dalal builds spaceships for a living, and he never planned to run for mayor of Longmont, Colorado. He just kept doing the next small thing that made sense. That led him from writing about city council meetings to moderating congressional debates, founding housing organizations, and running for office. Today, Shakeel joins Norm to discuss his journey, the challenges facing his community, and his advice for advocates.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

Hey listener! You hear from us all the time, but today we want to hear from you. We want your feedback on this podcast and any other Strong Towns podcast you like to listen to. Please fill out this quick survey to share your thoughts: strongtowns.org/survey

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Dr. Shakeel Dalal builds spaceships for a living, and he never planned to run for mayor of Longmont, Colorado. He just kept doing the next small thing that made sense. That led him from writing about city council meetings to moderating congressional debates, founding housing organizations, and running for office. Today, Shakeel joins Norm to discuss his journey, the challenges facing his community, and his advice for advocates.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

Hey listener! You hear from us all the time, but today we want to hear from you. We want your feedback on this podcast and any other Strong Towns podcast you like to listen to. Please fill out this quick survey to share your thoughts: strongtowns.org/survey

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 982 202 full How To Convince Your City To Embrace Tactical Urbanism How To Convince Your City To Embrace Tactical Urbanism https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-convince-your-city-to-embrace-tactical-urbanism/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-convince-your-city-to-embrace-tactical-urbanism/#comments Tue, 28 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/45227efb-0104-3790-b47d-cd80930516e3 What if you could change a dangerous street today instead of waiting 10 years? Isaac Gonzalez founded the advocacy group Slow Down Sacramento to prove that you can. Two years later, the group has helped transform Sacramento from a city that resists innovation to one that's embracing tactical urbanism.

Today, Isaac explains how he kickstarted this change and how you can do the same.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> What if you could change a dangerous street today instead of waiting 10 years? Isaac Gonzalez founded the advocacy group Slow Down Sacramento to prove that you can. Two years later, the group has helped transform Sacramento from a city that resists innovation to one that's embracing tactical urbanism.

Today, Isaac explains how he kickstarted this change and how you can do the same.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1089 201 full How To Reclaim Dignity and Safety for Nondrivers How To Reclaim Dignity and Safety for Nondrivers https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-reclaim-dignity-and-safety-for-nondrivers/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-reclaim-dignity-and-safety-for-nondrivers/#comments Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/aab52490-e820-3f36-bd3b-7c97068dea44 McKenzie Ortiz is the founder of Pedestrian Pride, a digital storytelling project that uplifts the realities of life for working-class people who can't drive. She also serves on the Planning and Zoning Commission in Columbia, Missouri. Today, McKenzie joins Tiffany to discuss what it's really like to be a nondriver in America and how storytelling can transform advocacy.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> McKenzie Ortiz is the founder of Pedestrian Pride, a digital storytelling project that uplifts the realities of life for working-class people who can't drive. She also serves on the Planning and Zoning Commission in Columbia, Missouri. Today, McKenzie joins Tiffany to discuss what it's really like to be a nondriver in America and how storytelling can transform advocacy.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 2889 200 full How To Run for Office at 24 — and Win Support How To Run for Office at 24 — and Win Support https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-run-for-office-at-24-%e2%80%94-and-win-support/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-run-for-office-at-24-%e2%80%94-and-win-support/#comments Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/04af8abd-a83c-355c-912d-ef10b06e2e97 Sam Foster is an engineer, Local Conversation leader, and mayoral candidate in Marietta, Georgia. He joins Norm to talk about why he's running for office at 24 years old, how he uses social media to educate the public, and what he has planned for a more prosperous Marietta.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Sam Foster is an engineer, Local Conversation leader, and mayoral candidate in Marietta, Georgia. He joins Norm to talk about why he's running for office at 24 years old, how he uses social media to educate the public, and what he has planned for a more prosperous Marietta.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 994 199 full How To Make Starting a Small Business Easy and Cheap How To Make Starting a Small Business Easy and Cheap https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-make-starting-a-small-business-easy-and-cheap/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-make-starting-a-small-business-easy-and-cheap/#comments Thu, 16 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/72cf73b5-6fb7-3a8d-bbfa-18a434038bb7 Zoe Tishaev and Dylan DelliSanti work for the Institute for Justice, a nonprofit, public interest law firm. As part of the Cities Work program, they partner with cities to make it cheaper, faster and simpler to start small businesses. Today, they join Tiffany to talk about the importance of small businesses and to explain how cities can revitalize their local economies.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Zoe Tishaev and Dylan DelliSanti work for the Institute for Justice, a nonprofit, public interest law firm. As part of the Cities Work program, they partner with cities to make it cheaper, faster and simpler to start small businesses. Today, they join Tiffany to talk about the importance of small businesses and to explain how cities can revitalize their local economies.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 2508 198 full How One Bus Driver Is Inspiring Safer Streets How One Bus Driver Is Inspiring Safer Streets https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-one-bus-driver-is-inspiring-safer-streets/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-one-bus-driver-is-inspiring-safer-streets/#comments Tue, 14 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/7d8cae68-59c6-3c3d-8ce1-76aaf9b2a043 Tyler Moldovan is a bus driver, urban advocate, and community organizer in Port Huron, Michigan. Today, he joins Norm to share how his work in transit, street safety, and local arts is helping to build a safer and more connected city.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Tyler Moldovan is a bus driver, urban advocate, and community organizer in Port Huron, Michigan. Today, he joins Norm to share how his work in transit, street safety, and local arts is helping to build a safer and more connected city.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES


This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 913 197 full How To Fight a Highway Project — and Actually Win How To Fight a Highway Project — and Actually Win https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-fight-a-highway-project-%e2%80%94-and-actually-win/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-fight-a-highway-project-%e2%80%94-and-actually-win/#comments Thu, 09 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/b2bb7cad-f262-3ad8-9e42-29ea80ea8c62 Kyle and Beverly Greenwood brought together nearly 2,000 residents to stop a proposed highway in Brazos County, Texas. What began with a single flyer turned into a community victory that protected historic ranches and homes. Today, they join Tiffany to explain how they took on a highway expansion and won.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Kyle and Beverly Greenwood brought together nearly 2,000 residents to stop a proposed highway in Brazos County, Texas. What began with a single flyer turned into a community victory that protected historic ranches and homes. Today, they join Tiffany to explain how they took on a highway expansion and won.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 2699 196 full How To Bring More Affordable Housing Options to Colorado How To Bring More Affordable Housing Options to Colorado https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-bring-more-affordable-housing-options-to-colorado/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-bring-more-affordable-housing-options-to-colorado/#comments Tue, 07 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/b2688814-75ff-33c0-b272-7c1c5b8efb67 Mary Coddington is the founder of Twelve Inc., an affordable housing consulting firm based in Colorado. She also serves on the Denver Planning Board and works with the Colorado State Housing and Finance Authority. Today, she joins Norm to talk about her efforts to bring more housing affordability to her community on the neighborhood, city, and state levels.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Mary Coddington is the founder of Twelve Inc., an affordable housing consulting firm based in Colorado. She also serves on the Denver Planning Board and works with the Colorado State Housing and Finance Authority. Today, she joins Norm to talk about her efforts to bring more housing affordability to her community on the neighborhood, city, and state levels.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1204 195 full How Permaculture Design Principles Can Make Cities More Resilient How Permaculture Design Principles Can Make Cities More Resilient https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-permaculture-design-principles-can-make-cities-more-resilient/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-permaculture-design-principles-can-make-cities-more-resilient/#comments Thu, 02 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/54dde659-e16a-3084-9ec6-96b7bd4a8a97 Linda Appel Lipsius is the executive director of Denver Urban Gardens, where she supports a network of over 200 gardens and food forests that produce 650,000 pounds of food annually. She also helps launch initiatives to help make Denver a greener, more food-resilient place.

Linda came on this podcast in July to discuss how community gardens can strengthen cities. Today, she rejoins Tiffany for a deeper dive into how the principles of permaculture can shape how we think about cities.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES
  • Do you know someone who would make for a great Bottom-Up Revolution guest? Let us know here!

‍

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Linda Appel Lipsius is the executive director of Denver Urban Gardens, where she supports a network of over 200 gardens and food forests that produce 650,000 pounds of food annually. She also helps launch initiatives to help make Denver a greener, more food-resilient place.

Linda came on this podcast in July to discuss how community gardens can strengthen cities. Today, she rejoins Tiffany for a deeper dive into how the principles of permaculture can shape how we think about cities.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES
  • Do you know someone who would make for a great Bottom-Up Revolution guest? Let us know here!

‍

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 2726 194 full How Strategic Boldness Transformed Santa Fe’s Transportation Plan How Strategic Boldness Transformed Santa Fe’s Transportation Plan https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-strategic-boldness-transformed-santa-fe-s-transportation-plan/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-strategic-boldness-transformed-santa-fe-s-transportation-plan/#comments Tue, 30 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/a9b70483-e481-3a1a-bbbc-14c4fd59435b Erick Aune is the director of the Santa Fe Metropolitan Planning Organization, as well as a member of Strong Towns Santa Fe. He’s spearheading a major shift in his region’s approach to street safety and design, replacing outdated assumptions with policies that help people thrive. Today he shares his strategy for changing transportation policy.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Erick Aune is the director of the Santa Fe Metropolitan Planning Organization, as well as a member of Strong Towns Santa Fe. He’s spearheading a major shift in his region’s approach to street safety and design, replacing outdated assumptions with policies that help people thrive. Today he shares his strategy for changing transportation policy.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1119 193 full How To Run for City Council as a Self-Taught Advocate How To Run for City Council as a Self-Taught Advocate https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-run-for-city-council-as-a-self-taught-advocate/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-run-for-city-council-as-a-self-taught-advocate/#comments Thu, 25 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/54123783-c366-3ce4-9396-15f643a9fa5d Norm steps in for Tiffany on this episode of The Bottom-Up Revolution. He's joined by Donna Boelen, who served on the city council of Bloomington, Illinois, from 2019 to 2024. Donna shares how she went from speaking at public comment to winning office as a self-taught Strong Towns-style advocate — and offers tips for anyone considering a run for city council.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Norm steps in for Tiffany on this episode of The Bottom-Up Revolution. He's joined by Donna Boelen, who served on the city council of Bloomington, Illinois, from 2019 to 2024. Donna shares how she went from speaking at public comment to winning office as a self-taught Strong Towns-style advocate — and offers tips for anyone considering a run for city council.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 2543 192 full How To Live & Grow Wisely in the Utah Desert How To Live & Grow Wisely in the Utah Desert https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-live-grow-wisely-in-the-utah-desert/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-live-grow-wisely-in-the-utah-desert/#comments Tue, 23 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/867c8176-a9a1-33fb-9336-399bb983e617 What does it mean to live wisely and grow well in the desert? Judith Rognli of Strong Towns WashCo shares how St. George residents are facing water scarcity, rapid growth, and livability challenges as a community.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> What does it mean to live wisely and grow well in the desert? Judith Rognli of Strong Towns WashCo shares how St. George residents are facing water scarcity, rapid growth, and livability challenges as a community.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1207 191 full How To Bring Community Projects to Life Quickly and Effectively How To Bring Community Projects to Life Quickly and Effectively https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-bring-community-projects-to-life-quickly-and-effectively/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-bring-community-projects-to-life-quickly-and-effectively/#comments Thu, 18 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/3777c6fd-d0d5-3ada-b08d-4c90ba39b699 Butch Roussel is the founder of the 24 Hour Citizen Project, an annual event that connects everyday citizens with the expertise and resources they need to solve challenges in their town. Over the last decade, the 24 Hour Citizen Project has funded dozens of incredible projects to the tune of $170,000 and counting.

Butch joins Tiffany to discuss the big impact that small, locally funded projects can have on a community and how to bring those projects to life.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Butch Roussel is the founder of the 24 Hour Citizen Project, an annual event that connects everyday citizens with the expertise and resources they need to solve challenges in their town. Over the last decade, the 24 Hour Citizen Project has funded dozens of incredible projects to the tune of $170,000 and counting.

Butch joins Tiffany to discuss the big impact that small, locally funded projects can have on a community and how to bring those projects to life.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 2405 190 full How 296 Strong Towns Advocacy Groups Are Changing the World How 296 Strong Towns Advocacy Groups Are Changing the World https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-296-strong-towns-advocacy-groups-are-changing-the-world/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-296-strong-towns-advocacy-groups-are-changing-the-world/#comments Tue, 16 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/9d491429-7da1-3f89-9dfd-345bde81a48a In this special episode of Bottom-Up Shorts, Norm is joined by John Pattison, Strong Towns' community builder and head of the Local Conversations program. They discuss what drives people to start one of these local advocacy groups, as well as the real costs and rewards of stepping into leadership. They also explore how mentorship, shared tools, and bottom-up collaboration knit single-issue advocates into a culture of lasting community change.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

‍

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> In this special episode of Bottom-Up Shorts, Norm is joined by John Pattison, Strong Towns' community builder and head of the Local Conversations program. They discuss what drives people to start one of these local advocacy groups, as well as the real costs and rewards of stepping into leadership. They also explore how mentorship, shared tools, and bottom-up collaboration knit single-issue advocates into a culture of lasting community change.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

‍

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1271 189 full How To Build Community Wealth From the Bottom Up How To Build Community Wealth From the Bottom Up https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-build-community-wealth-from-the-bottom-up/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-build-community-wealth-from-the-bottom-up/#comments Thu, 11 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/c0d54349-0465-3f28-85aa-bce2bd21843e Jessica David and Josh Daley are co-founders of Local Return, a nonprofit in Rhode Island dedicated to building community wealth through ownership and investment. They empower residents through education and financing, with a particular focus on small-scale developers and small business owners. Today, Jessica and Josh explain how Local Return works, how it benefits communities, and the legal and technical challenges of starting this kind of program.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Jessica David and Josh Daley are co-founders of Local Return, a nonprofit in Rhode Island dedicated to building community wealth through ownership and investment. They empower residents through education and financing, with a particular focus on small-scale developers and small business owners. Today, Jessica and Josh explain how Local Return works, how it benefits communities, and the legal and technical challenges of starting this kind of program.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 2908 188 full Building Safe Streets for All in Brighton, New York Building Safe Streets for All in Brighton, New York https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/building-safe-streets-for-all-in-brighton-new-york/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/building-safe-streets-for-all-in-brighton-new-york/#comments Tue, 09 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/66b1dda9-033b-3dd7-8305-db1ab8865a38 Christine Corrado is a city councilmember in Brighton, New York. She’s also the founder of Brighton Safe Streets for All and has served on a variety of city committees, from the Zoning Board of Appeals to the Public Works Committee. She and Norm discuss how she’s making her community safer and more prosperous.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Christine Corrado is a city councilmember in Brighton, New York. She’s also the founder of Brighton Safe Streets for All and has served on a variety of city committees, from the Zoning Board of Appeals to the Public Works Committee. She and Norm discuss how she’s making her community safer and more prosperous.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1458 187 full The Lost Art of Crafting Great Urban Places The Lost Art of Crafting Great Urban Places https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/the-lost-art-of-crafting-great-urban-places/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/the-lost-art-of-crafting-great-urban-places/#comments Thu, 04 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/8406ae30-459d-3064-ae70-fde7c7d8c4ef Professor Jack Duncan is a professor of architecture and preservation at the College of Charleston. His mission is to help students and communities understand and rediscover the human-scaled patterns that make places beautiful, legible, and lasting. Today, Jack joins Tiffany to discuss how this mission relates to architecture, urbanism, and craftsmanship.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Professor Jack Duncan is a professor of architecture and preservation at the College of Charleston. His mission is to help students and communities understand and rediscover the human-scaled patterns that make places beautiful, legible, and lasting. Today, Jack joins Tiffany to discuss how this mission relates to architecture, urbanism, and craftsmanship.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 2598 186 full How a Walk Audit Can Build Community and Momentum How a Walk Audit Can Build Community and Momentum https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-a-walk-audit-can-build-community-and-momentum/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-a-walk-audit-can-build-community-and-momentum/#comments Tue, 02 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/db2ccc63-a169-347f-b47b-119c1f8d4fd2 Gioia Calabretta is one of the leaders of Livable Lynchburg, a Local Conversation in Virginia. She is also Strong Towns’ graphic design intern. She and Norm discuss a walk audit she recently participated in, as well as her unique viewpoint as both a Local Conversation leader and Strong Towns staff member.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Gioia Calabretta is one of the leaders of Livable Lynchburg, a Local Conversation in Virginia. She is also Strong Towns’ graphic design intern. She and Norm discuss a walk audit she recently participated in, as well as her unique viewpoint as both a Local Conversation leader and Strong Towns staff member.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1121 185 full How Will Gardner Is Helping Build a Stronger South Coast How Will Gardner Is Helping Build a Stronger South Coast https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-will-gardner-is-helping-build-a-stronger-south-coast/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-will-gardner-is-helping-build-a-stronger-south-coast/#comments Thu, 28 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/5ba3c7af-de86-3a98-ae6b-16cb9568f68b Will Gardner is the founder of South Coast Places For People, a new nonprofit — and Strong Towns Local Conversation — in Massachusetts. He previously founded Alma del Mar Charter Schools and now spends much of his time plotting street redesigns, housing reforms, and community events.

In this episode, Will discusses the three working groups his Local Conversation recently started, which focus on parking reform, backyard cottages, and street safety.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Will Gardner is the founder of South Coast Places For People, a new nonprofit — and Strong Towns Local Conversation — in Massachusetts. He previously founded Alma del Mar Charter Schools and now spends much of his time plotting street redesigns, housing reforms, and community events.

In this episode, Will discusses the three working groups his Local Conversation recently started, which focus on parking reform, backyard cottages, and street safety.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 3413 184 full Adding Third Places To Unlock a Small Town’s Potential Adding Third Places To Unlock a Small Town’s Potential https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/adding-third-places-to-unlock-a-small-town-s-potential/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/adding-third-places-to-unlock-a-small-town-s-potential/#comments Tue, 26 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/e0124003-931b-36a8-9c6e-05e9513e928a Today, Norm is joined by Jess and Dan Sollaccio from Warrenton, Oregon. Jess is a city commissioner and a small-scale housing developer. Dan is a commissioner for the Warrenton Budget Committee and works remotely for a financial institution. They explain their asset-based mindset for strengthening their community, as well as their efforts to redevelop a vacant building into a community hub.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Today, Norm is joined by Jess and Dan Sollaccio from Warrenton, Oregon. Jess is a city commissioner and a small-scale housing developer. Dan is a commissioner for the Warrenton Budget Committee and works remotely for a financial institution. They explain their asset-based mindset for strengthening their community, as well as their efforts to redevelop a vacant building into a community hub.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1261 183 full Fighting for Safe Streets in America’s Most Dangerous City Fighting for Safe Streets in America’s Most Dangerous City https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/fighting-for-safe-streets-in-america-s-most-dangerous-city/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/fighting-for-safe-streets-in-america-s-most-dangerous-city/#comments Thu, 21 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/8d6b5095-da92-3c29-9bec-830d8c13ec95 Memphis, Tennessee, was ranked the #1 most dangerous metro area by Smart Growth America in 2024. That’s not stopping Kelsey Huse, a safe streets advocate and grad student studying city and regional planning. She’s tackling the problem head-on by analyzing car crash sites, helping launch a city-wide advocacy coalition, and raising awareness for safer infrastructure online.

Today, Kelsey joins Tiffany to share the inside scoop on Memphis’ dangerous design and how she’s working to change it.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Memphis, Tennessee, was ranked the #1 most dangerous metro area by Smart Growth America in 2024. That’s not stopping Kelsey Huse, a safe streets advocate and grad student studying city and regional planning. She’s tackling the problem head-on by analyzing car crash sites, helping launch a city-wide advocacy coalition, and raising awareness for safer infrastructure online.

Today, Kelsey joins Tiffany to share the inside scoop on Memphis’ dangerous design and how she’s working to change it.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 2291 182 full The Young Voice Shaping Salt Lake City's Future The Young Voice Shaping Salt Lake City's Future https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/the-young-voice-shaping-salt-lake-citys-future/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/the-young-voice-shaping-salt-lake-citys-future/#comments Tue, 19 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/8ac95ab0-3fa6-378a-a226-b7166a5db200 Eva López Chávez is a city council member in Salt Lake City, Utah. Eva has been involved in many layers of local government, including working as a city staffer and construction project manager. Today, she and Norm discuss how she became a city councilor and how she’s building prosperity in her city.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Eva López Chávez is a city council member in Salt Lake City, Utah. Eva has been involved in many layers of local government, including working as a city staffer and construction project manager. Today, she and Norm discuss how she became a city councilor and how she’s building prosperity in her city.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1015 181 full How Taking a Walk Can Make Your City Stronger How Taking a Walk Can Make Your City Stronger https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-taking-a-walk-can-make-your-city-stronger/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-taking-a-walk-can-make-your-city-stronger/#comments Thu, 14 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/008b24de-2bdd-3070-8ab1-362730636dd8 Ashley Thornton is the founder of Waco Walks, an organization devoted to promoting walkability in Waco, Texas. She was inspired to start the organization after spending a year with walking as her primary form of transportation.

Ashley and Tiffany discuss the design choices that make Waco difficult to walk in and how Waco Walks is working to change that.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Ashley Thornton is the founder of Waco Walks, an organization devoted to promoting walkability in Waco, Texas. She was inspired to start the organization after spending a year with walking as her primary form of transportation.

Ashley and Tiffany discuss the design choices that make Waco difficult to walk in and how Waco Walks is working to change that.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 3515 180 full This Is Local Leadership Without the Ego This Is Local Leadership Without the Ego https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/this-is-local-leadership-without-the-ego/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/this-is-local-leadership-without-the-ego/#comments Tue, 12 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/499585ad-9696-316a-8095-3917c351d9bb Mark Hoppen is a former city manager and Strong Towns member who’s been quietly strengthening communities in Washington state for decades. In this Bottom Up Short, Norm and Mark talk about why someone should pursue a career in city management, what real priorities look like in that role, and how to lead with both care and practicality.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Mark Hoppen is a former city manager and Strong Towns member who’s been quietly strengthening communities in Washington state for decades. In this Bottom Up Short, Norm and Mark talk about why someone should pursue a career in city management, what real priorities look like in that role, and how to lead with both care and practicality.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1047 179 full Beating the Loneliness Epidemic, One Step at a Time Beating the Loneliness Epidemic, One Step at a Time https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/beating-the-loneliness-epidemic-one-step-at-a-time/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/beating-the-loneliness-epidemic-one-step-at-a-time/#comments Thu, 07 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/7d8b0c3c-16bb-3696-97e7-745462db854f Adult friendships are difficult. A big part of that is our built environment, which is often designed in a way that stifles social connection instead of supporting it. Kat Vellos is an author, facilitator, and connection coach who’s working to change that. She and Tiffany discuss the importance of community building, ways to redesign our built environment, and other steps residents and local leaders can take to help their community thrive.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Adult friendships are difficult. A big part of that is our built environment, which is often designed in a way that stifles social connection instead of supporting it. Kat Vellos is an author, facilitator, and connection coach who’s working to change that. She and Tiffany discuss the importance of community building, ways to redesign our built environment, and other steps residents and local leaders can take to help their community thrive.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 3757 178 full How To Use Property Taxes to Clean Up Your Community How To Use Property Taxes to Clean Up Your Community https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-use-property-taxes-to-clean-up-your-community/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-to-use-property-taxes-to-clean-up-your-community/#comments Tue, 05 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/0843b769-c2f6-37e0-b376-a254ff37ac50 Ashley Salvador is a city councilor in Edmonton, Alberta. She’s a national leader in housing reform, zoning modernization, and urban revitalization. Ashley joins Norm on this Bottom-Up Short to discus one of her recent initiatives, which focuses on reducing the number of derelict and dangerous properties in the city. Ashley shares how she helped bring Canada’s first Derelict Tax Subclass into effect and how it’s driving revitalization.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Ashley Salvador is a city councilor in Edmonton, Alberta. She’s a national leader in housing reform, zoning modernization, and urban revitalization. Ashley joins Norm on this Bottom-Up Short to discus one of her recent initiatives, which focuses on reducing the number of derelict and dangerous properties in the city. Ashley shares how she helped bring Canada’s first Derelict Tax Subclass into effect and how it’s driving revitalization.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 989 177 full Will This Transportation System Be More Popular Than Cars? Will This Transportation System Be More Popular Than Cars? https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/will-this-transportation-system-be-more-popular-than-cars/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/will-this-transportation-system-be-more-popular-than-cars/#comments Thu, 31 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/bb023aba-e274-322d-9a48-872469c541a0 Jeral Poskey is the founder and CEO of Swyft Cities, a California-based tech company that's spearheading a totally new transportation system. Jeral explains his unique approach to creating realistic transportation innovations. He describes the transportation system Swyft Cities licenses and how it could address the issues that many cities face — like traffic, land wasted on parking, and difficulty with infill development.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

Follow Tiffany Owens Reed (Instagram) Whoosh - the transportation technology that Swyft Cities licenses for key regions including North America and the Middle East. Do you know someone who would make for a great Bottom-Up Revolution guest? Let us know here!

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Jeral Poskey is the founder and CEO of Swyft Cities, a California-based tech company that's spearheading a totally new transportation system. Jeral explains his unique approach to creating realistic transportation innovations. He describes the transportation system Swyft Cities licenses and how it could address the issues that many cities face — like traffic, land wasted on parking, and difficulty with infill development.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES


Follow Tiffany Owens Reed (Instagram)


Whoosh - the transportation technology that Swyft Cities licenses for key regions including North America and the Middle East.


Do you know someone who would make for a great Bottom-Up Revolution guest? Let us know here!

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership.

]]> Strong Towns false No 3380 176 full Courtyard Urbanism: The Best of Both City and Suburb Courtyard Urbanism: The Best of Both City and Suburb https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/courtyard-urbanism-the-best-of-both-city-and-suburb/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/courtyard-urbanism-the-best-of-both-city-and-suburb/#comments Tue, 29 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/f7deafde-38a6-3158-a6d8-74786e519e2b Dr. Alicia Pederson is a writer and advocate who encourages cities to adopt courtyard urbanism, a style of development where mixed-use buildings surround a shared courtyard. Today, she joins Norm to explain the benefits of this development style and how to advocate for it.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

 

]]> Dr. Alicia Pederson is a writer and advocate who encourages cities to adopt courtyard urbanism, a style of development where mixed-use buildings surround a shared courtyard. Today, she joins Norm to explain the benefits of this development style and how to advocate for it.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

 

]]> Strong Towns false No 1164 175 full This City Councilor Is Making Cambridge Safer and More Affordable This City Councilor Is Making Cambridge Safer and More Affordable https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/this-city-councilor-is-making-cambridge-safer-and-more-affordable/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/this-city-councilor-is-making-cambridge-safer-and-more-affordable/#comments Thu, 24 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/0eb83bc1-e824-3043-a0c0-383ec079436f Meet Burhan Azeem, a city councilor in Cambridge, Massachusetts. A graduate of MIT, he’s the youngest councilor in the city’s history and has a special focus on housing affordability and street safety.

Burhan has successfully expanded zoning for affordable housing, removed parking minimums, and helped build bike lanes throughout the city. He also helped found a nonprofit that impacts housing policy on the state level. Today, he and Tiffany sit down to discuss how he got to this point and what he’s working on next.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Meet Burhan Azeem, a city councilor in Cambridge, Massachusetts. A graduate of MIT, he’s the youngest councilor in the city’s history and has a special focus on housing affordability and street safety.

Burhan has successfully expanded zoning for affordable housing, removed parking minimums, and helped build bike lanes throughout the city. He also helped found a nonprofit that impacts housing policy on the state level. Today, he and Tiffany sit down to discuss how he got to this point and what he’s working on next.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Strong Towns false No 2343 174 full Bottom-Up Shorts: One Soldier’s Stand for Safer Streets Bottom-Up Shorts: One Soldier’s Stand for Safer Streets https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-one-soldier-s-stand-for-safer-streets/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-one-soldier-s-stand-for-safer-streets/#comments Tue, 22 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/33a9dc19-8ae9-375e-947e-7ad494592f3d What happens when a city’s design puts lives at risk—and someone decides to speak up?

In this episode, you’ll meet Army Master Sgt. Ben Hultquist, one of the leaders of Strong Towns Fayetteville, a Local Conversation in North Carolina. After a string of preventable deaths, Ben testified in city hall. Now, that testimony is helping turn the conversation in Fayetteville toward people-first design and safer streets.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> What happens when a city’s design puts lives at risk—and someone decides to speak up?

In this episode, you’ll meet Army Master Sgt. Ben Hultquist, one of the leaders of Strong Towns Fayetteville, a Local Conversation in North Carolina. After a string of preventable deaths, Ben testified in city hall. Now, that testimony is helping turn the conversation in Fayetteville toward people-first design and safer streets.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Strong Towns false No 952 173 full How Community Gardens Can Make Cities Stronger How Community Gardens Can Make Cities Stronger https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-community-gardens-can-make-cities-stronger/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/how-community-gardens-can-make-cities-stronger/#comments Thu, 17 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/d7b95360-4b43-3e19-9dd3-ef6e96b7bbce Linda Appel Lipsius is the executive director of Denver Urban Gardens, where she supports a network of over 200 gardens and food forests that produce 650,000 pounds of food annually. She also helps launch initiatives to help make Denver a greener, more food-resilient place.

Linda and Tiffany discuss the importance of nature in urban resilience and the benefits of community gardening, from access to healthy food to community building and mental health improvement. Linda explains how a permaculture design philosophy can help cities become more resilient.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Linda Appel Lipsius is the executive director of Denver Urban Gardens, where she supports a network of over 200 gardens and food forests that produce 650,000 pounds of food annually. She also helps launch initiatives to help make Denver a greener, more food-resilient place.

Linda and Tiffany discuss the importance of nature in urban resilience and the benefits of community gardening, from access to healthy food to community building and mental health improvement. Linda explains how a permaculture design philosophy can help cities become more resilient.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Strong Towns false No 3640 172 full Bottom-Up Shorts: Giving People Better Transportation Options Bottom-Up Shorts: Giving People Better Transportation Options https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-giving-people-better-transportation-options/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-giving-people-better-transportation-options/#comments Tue, 15 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/d2462510-4eac-352a-9192-d4fbe4da019f Wendy Nash is the founder of Get Around Caboolture, a grassroots transportation initiative in Caboolture, Australia. She and Norm discuss the group's efforts to promote more transportation options, including hosting the first Week Without Driving outside the U.S. Wendy emphasizes the importance of tailoring messages to different audiences and explains why she would like to see more comedy in advocacy.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Wendy Nash is the founder of Get Around Caboolture, a grassroots transportation initiative in Caboolture, Australia. She and Norm discuss the group's efforts to promote more transportation options, including hosting the first Week Without Driving outside the U.S. Wendy emphasizes the importance of tailoring messages to different audiences and explains why she would like to see more comedy in advocacy.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1186 171 full Brandi Thompson: Driving Change Through Civic Empowerment Brandi Thompson: Driving Change Through Civic Empowerment https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/brandi-thompson-how-to-drive-change-through-civic-empowerment/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/brandi-thompson-how-to-drive-change-through-civic-empowerment/#comments Thu, 10 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/d467ba62-a083-3ffd-933a-475d7966bcc0 Brandi Thompson is the “accidental” co-founder and leader of Strong Towns ABQ, a Local Conversation in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She’s lived in eight states and has worked as a rattlesnake wrangler, a grant writer, and a teacher. She currently works as a flight nurse, providing care to patients who need to be air-lifted to the hospital.

Today, Brandi sits down with Tiffany to discuss the strategies that have helped Strong Towns ABQ successfully advocate for zoning reform and against highway expansions.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Brandi Thompson is the “accidental” co-founder and leader of Strong Towns ABQ, a Local Conversation in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She’s lived in eight states and has worked as a rattlesnake wrangler, a grant writer, and a teacher. She currently works as a flight nurse, providing care to patients who need to be air-lifted to the hospital.

Today, Brandi sits down with Tiffany to discuss the strategies that have helped Strong Towns ABQ successfully advocate for zoning reform and against highway expansions.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES


This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Strong Towns false No 3389 170 full Alyssa Lee & Kay Crumb: How To Build a Thriving Advocacy Group Alyssa Lee & Kay Crumb: How To Build a Thriving Advocacy Group https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/alyssa-lee-kay-crumb-how-to-build-a-thriving-advocacy-group/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/alyssa-lee-kay-crumb-how-to-build-a-thriving-advocacy-group/#comments Tue, 08 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/3dfa7c61-26f0-3aaf-8d4e-ffc2d4935729 Alyssa Lee and Kay Crumb are leaders of Strong SacTown, one of the largest and most successful groups in the Strong Towns Local Conversations program. Based in Sacramento, California, the group has 140 engaged members, balances multiple ongoing initiatives, and successfully collaborates with city staff.

In this Bottom-Up Short, Alyssa and Kay share their advice for building and sustaining a successful Local Conversation.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Alyssa Lee and Kay Crumb are leaders of Strong SacTown, one of the largest and most successful groups in the Strong Towns Local Conversations program. Based in Sacramento, California, the group has 140 engaged members, balances multiple ongoing initiatives, and successfully collaborates with city staff.

In this Bottom-Up Short, Alyssa and Kay share their advice for building and sustaining a successful Local Conversation.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Strong Towns false No 1060 169 full Craig Cassar: How To Take a Holistic Approach to City Building Craig Cassar: How To Take a Holistic Approach to City Building https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/craig-cassar-how-to-take-a-holistic-approach-to-city-building/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/craig-cassar-how-to-take-a-holistic-approach-to-city-building/#comments Thu, 03 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/9585a0f2-35b3-381d-bf20-681ec88947b5 Craig Cassar is a first-term city councilor in Hamilton, Ontario. Prior to serving in public office, he acquired nearly 25 years of private sector leadership experience. Craig is a believer in the Strong Towns philosophy of city building, an advocate for active and public transportation, and a passionate environmentalist.

Today, Craig and Tiffany discusses the challenges Hamilton faces and the progress the city has made. They also talk about the importance of a holistic approach to city building, including creating synergy between urbanism and environmentalism.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Craig Cassar is a first-term city councilor in Hamilton, Ontario. Prior to serving in public office, he acquired nearly 25 years of private sector leadership experience. Craig is a believer in the Strong Towns philosophy of city building, an advocate for active and public transportation, and a passionate environmentalist.

Today, Craig and Tiffany discusses the challenges Hamilton faces and the progress the city has made. They also talk about the importance of a holistic approach to city building, including creating synergy between urbanism and environmentalism.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Strong Towns false No 2250 168 full Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Remove Barriers to Good Housing Development Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Remove Barriers to Good Housing Development https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-remove-barriers-to-good-housing-development/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-remove-barriers-to-good-housing-development/#comments Tue, 01 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/fd03acde-b01f-38b1-b45f-69bf8658dff6 Jesse Russell is a small-scale developer and Strong Towns member from Bend, Oregon. He joins Norm to discuss the ways he’s helping create more attainable homes in his hometown. He also explains how he works with the community and city officials to remove barriers to good development.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Jesse Russell is a small-scale developer and Strong Towns member from Bend, Oregon. He joins Norm to discuss the ways he’s helping create more attainable homes in his hometown. He also explains how he works with the community and city officials to remove barriers to good development.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES


This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Strong Towns false No 764 167 full Eric Higbee: How to Master the Art of Community Engagement Eric Higbee: How to Master the Art of Community Engagement https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/eric-higbee-how-to-master-the-art-of-community-engagement/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/eric-higbee-how-to-master-the-art-of-community-engagement/#comments Thu, 26 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/84a5bec0-baa3-3790-9e3b-b82c178273e8 Eric Higbee is a landscape architect and writer who teaches university courses on community engagement at the University of Washington Department of Landscape Architecture. He works on community design and planning projects through his award-winning landscape architecture practice, Convene.

Today, Eric joins Tiffany to discuss the importance of community engagement, why attempts at this kind of engagement often fail, and how to succeed at it.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Eric Higbee is a landscape architect and writer who teaches university courses on community engagement at the University of Washington Department of Landscape Architecture. He works on community design and planning projects through his award-winning landscape architecture practice, Convene.

Today, Eric joins Tiffany to discuss the importance of community engagement, why attempts at this kind of engagement often fail, and how to succeed at it.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Strong Towns false No 2370 166 full Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Encourage Smart, Financially Strong Development Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Encourage Smart, Financially Strong Development https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-encourage-smart-financially-strong-development/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-encourage-smart-financially-strong-development/#comments Tue, 24 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/c1ac9410-d6cd-3dcb-a037-c03b43858e9d In today’s Bottom-Up Short, Norm is joined by Kevin McDonnell, the mayor of Petaluma, California, and Dave Alden, co-leader of Petaluma Urban Chat. Kevin and Dave discuss their Know Before You Grow initiative, a community-driven effort focused on smart, financially strong development. They share how this initiative has helped direct attention toward building housing in Petaluma’s downtown, where services already exist and infrastructure is more financially viable.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> In today’s Bottom-Up Short, Norm is joined by Kevin McDonnell, the mayor of Petaluma, California, and Dave Alden, co-leader of Petaluma Urban Chat. Kevin and Dave discuss their Know Before You Grow initiative, a community-driven effort focused on smart, financially strong development. They share how this initiative has helped direct attention toward building housing in Petaluma’s downtown, where services already exist and infrastructure is more financially viable.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

 

This podcast is made possible by Strong Towns members. Click here to learn more about membership, including member-exclusive perks.

]]> Strong Towns false No 978 165 full Dr. Patricia Tice: Why Social Interaction Should Influence City Planning Dr. Patricia Tice: Why Social Interaction Should Influence City Planning https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/dr-patricia-tice-why-social-interaction-should-influence-city-planning/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/dr-patricia-tice-why-social-interaction-should-influence-city-planning/#comments Thu, 19 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/85a8d765-4bf1-38af-9cc6-b9075f33db17 Dr. Patricia Tice has been an transportation engineer, planner, researcher and self-proclaimed geek for nearly 30 years. She spent the first decade of her career doing hundreds of traffic impact studies. In 2011, she started her own consulting firm and, a few years later, completed a PhD in transportation engineering.

In this episode of The Bottom-Up Revolution, Patricia talks about her research into human behavior, as well as the role of human interaction and LEGO in urban design.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Dr. Patricia Tice has been an transportation engineer, planner, researcher and self-proclaimed geek for nearly 30 years. She spent the first decade of her career doing hundreds of traffic impact studies. In 2011, she started her own consulting firm and, a few years later, completed a PhD in transportation engineering.

In this episode of The Bottom-Up Revolution, Patricia talks about her research into human behavior, as well as the role of human interaction and LEGO in urban design.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 3843 164 full Mr. Barricade: How to Quick Build a Connected City Mr. Barricade: How to Quick Build a Connected City https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/mr-barricade-how-to-quick-build-a-connected-city/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/mr-barricade-how-to-quick-build-a-connected-city/#comments Thu, 05 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/8aaac8cb-229b-380b-ba20-e600fdb7135e Vignesh Swaminathan is an engineer, transportation planner, and content creator. Formerly the the CEO of a civil engineering firm, he now works as a project engineer and has over 1.7 million followers on TikTok, where he discusses urban infrastructure and transportation planning.

Tiffany and Vignesh discuss how transportation planning affects other aspects of cities such as housing. Vignesh explains how he works with quick-build projects, intersection design, and social media to make cities stronger.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Vignesh Swaminathan is an engineer, transportation planner, and content creator. Formerly the the CEO of a civil engineering firm, he now works as a project engineer and has over 1.7 million followers on TikTok, where he discusses urban infrastructure and transportation planning.

Tiffany and Vignesh discuss how transportation planning affects other aspects of cities such as housing. Vignesh explains how he works with quick-build projects, intersection design, and social media to make cities stronger.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 3821 163 full Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Humbly Observe Where People Struggle Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Humbly Observe Where People Struggle https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-humbly-observe-where-people-struggle/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-humbly-observe-where-people-struggle/#comments Tue, 03 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/8aa1f1be-8f09-3578-844a-094c1c99d325 Danny Wind is a Local Conversation leader and Regional Transportation Commission member from Lake County, California. In this Bottom-Up Short, Danny discusses their Open Street Map Project, which gives people a space to share photos and descriptions of the everyday challenges they face. Danny explains how this method of humbly observing where people struggle is a powerful force for change and how it intersects with their Regional Transportation Commission work.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Danny Wind is a Local Conversation leader and Regional Transportation Commission member from Lake County, California. In this Bottom-Up Short, Danny discusses their Open Street Map Project, which gives people a space to share photos and descriptions of the everyday challenges they face. Danny explains how this method of humbly observing where people struggle is a powerful force for change and how it intersects with their Regional Transportation Commission work.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 808 162 full Noah Roth: How Animation Can Build Strong Cities Noah Roth: How Animation Can Build Strong Cities https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/noah-roth-how-animation-can-build-strong-cities/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/noah-roth-how-animation-can-build-strong-cities/#comments Thu, 29 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/5aca92a9-5524-3034-851a-56f20006f640 Noah Roth is the founder of Streetcraft, a platform that uses visual storytelling and urban design to explore and improve the built environment. He joins Tiffany to talk about what led him to this form of advocacy, how visualizations can bring people on board with a project, and what he’s learned since starting his platform.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Noah Roth is the founder of Streetcraft, a platform that uses visual storytelling and urban design to explore and improve the built environment. He joins Tiffany to talk about what led him to this form of advocacy, how visualizations can bring people on board with a project, and what he’s learned since starting his platform.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 2287 161 full Bottom-Up Shorts: How State Governments Can Foster Strong Towns Bottom-Up Shorts: How State Governments Can Foster Strong Towns https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-state-governments-can-foster-strong-towns/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-state-governments-can-foster-strong-towns/#comments Tue, 27 May 2025 10:01:42 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/8c35fafb-be69-3ade-8bf5-1201562371d0 Danny Lapin is a revitalization specialist with the New York State Department of State. He and Norm discuss the ways that New York state is encouraging bottom-up community development, as well as Danny’s strategies for getting buy-in from communities that are wary of state programs or intervention.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Danny Lapin is a revitalization specialist with the New York State Department of State. He and Norm discuss the ways that New York state is encouraging bottom-up community development, as well as Danny’s strategies for getting buy-in from communities that are wary of state programs or intervention.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 967 160 full Rachel Leonardo: How Social Media Builds Collaboration and Great Places Rachel Leonardo: How Social Media Builds Collaboration and Great Places https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/rachel-leonardo-how-social-media-builds-collaboration-and-great-places/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/rachel-leonardo-how-social-media-builds-collaboration-and-great-places/#comments Thu, 22 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/36121bcb-9810-3fe3-a331-5fbae917fe03 Rachel Leonardo is the video producer at Strong Towns. She has a bachelor’s degree in architecture and specializes in breaking down complex topics into clear, actionable ideas that inspire local change.

Rachel and Tiffany discuss the importance of collaboration in building great places that foster community, culture, and connection. They explore how social media can encourage that collaboration and how it intersects with Strong Towns’ mission.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Rachel Leonardo is the video producer at Strong Towns. She has a bachelor’s degree in architecture and specializes in breaking down complex topics into clear, actionable ideas that inspire local change.

Rachel and Tiffany discuss the importance of collaboration in building great places that foster community, culture, and connection. They explore how social media can encourage that collaboration and how it intersects with Strong Towns’ mission.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 4030 159 full Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Build a Network of Advocates Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Build a Network of Advocates https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-build-a-network-of-advocates/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-build-a-network-of-advocates/#comments Wed, 21 May 2025 08:39:51 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/fa3190ae-b679-3826-839b-20812f599f87 Hazen Elwood is a student, a member of Strong Towns Calgary (in Alberta, Canada), and a community manager with the organization For the City. Today, Norm and Hazen discuss ways to build an advocacy network and the power of raising local awareness through storytelling.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Hazen Elwood is a student, a member of Strong Towns Calgary (in Alberta, Canada), and a community manager with the organization For the City. Today, Norm and Hazen discuss ways to build an advocacy network and the power of raising local awareness through storytelling.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 749 158 full Justine Underhill: Using Media To Build a Better City Justine Underhill: Using Media To Build a Better City https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/justine-underhill-using-media-to-build-a-better-city/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/justine-underhill-using-media-to-build-a-better-city/#comments Thu, 15 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/5230cec1-16e4-3f5f-b26b-3c35396194e5 Justine Underhill is an elected city council member in Falls Church, Virginia, and an award-winning video journalist and independent filmmaker. She’s worked for international and domestic news organizations, created an award-winning docuseries, and started an educational YouTube channel.

Justine joins Tiffany to discuss how media can be used to connect with people and drive change.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Justine Underhill is an elected city council member in Falls Church, Virginia, and an award-winning video journalist and independent filmmaker. She’s worked for international and domestic news organizations, created an award-winning docuseries, and started an educational YouTube channel.

Justine joins Tiffany to discuss how media can be used to connect with people and drive change.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 4338 157 full Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Make a More Walkable City Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Make a More Walkable City https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-make-a-more-walkable-city/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-make-a-more-walkable-city/#comments Tue, 13 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/f7510e77-4c4d-3c40-b4e0-d1de458caecf How do you turn three people with snow shovels into an initiative that gets covered on the news, triggers a city-funded pilot program, and inspires people to stay in the city long-term? That’s what Andrew Neidhardt and Dustin Moore of Walkable Albany, a Local Conversation in New York, are here to explain.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> How do you turn three people with snow shovels into an initiative that gets covered on the news, triggers a city-funded pilot program, and inspires people to stay in the city long-term? That’s what Andrew Neidhardt and Dustin Moore of Walkable Albany, a Local Conversation in New York, are here to explain.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 953 156 full Rosaline Hill: Proving the Power of Infill Housing Development Rosaline Hill: Proving the Power of Infill Housing Development https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/rosaline-hill-proving-the-power-of-infill-housing-development/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/rosaline-hill-proving-the-power-of-infill-housing-development/#comments Thu, 08 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/2680dbc3-4f25-31b5-b993-75a7db0db2d4 Rosaline Hill is a registered professional planner and awards-winning architect from Ottawa, Canada. She’s consulted on zoning for the city of Ottawa and is the founder and principle architect of BuildingIn, a planning program that helps municipalities reach their housing goals through infill development.

Today, Rosaline joins Tiffany to discuss the complexities of housing reform. She explains how she created a 3D modeling program that helps municipalities visualize and argue persuasively for development.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Rosaline Hill is a registered professional planner and awards-winning architect from Ottawa, Canada. She’s consulted on zoning for the city of Ottawa and is the founder and principle architect of BuildingIn, a planning program that helps municipalities reach their housing goals through infill development.

Today, Rosaline joins Tiffany to discuss the complexities of housing reform. She explains how she created a 3D modeling program that helps municipalities visualize and argue persuasively for development.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 2959 155 full Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Build a Stronger Richmond Hill Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Build a Stronger Richmond Hill https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-build-a-stronger-richmond-hill/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-build-a-stronger-richmond-hill/#comments Tue, 06 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/19cc4701-6f89-3a63-bb00-654af7bf924b In this episode of Bottom Up Shorts, Norm is joined by Saeed Vahid, a Local Conversation leader from Richmond Hill, Ontario. They talk about how he started the Local Conversation, how the group is collaborating with city officials, and how the expansion of the Greater Toronto Area has affected Richmond Hill.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> In this episode of Bottom Up Shorts, Norm is joined by Saeed Vahid, a Local Conversation leader from Richmond Hill, Ontario. They talk about how he started the Local Conversation, how the group is collaborating with city officials, and how the expansion of the Greater Toronto Area has affected Richmond Hill.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 870 154 full Diane Alisa: How To Restore the American Village Diane Alisa: How To Restore the American Village https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/diane-alisa-how-to-restore-the-american-village/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/diane-alisa-how-to-restore-the-american-village/#comments Fri, 02 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/5a733641-77a2-3aa5-b18d-d107ffbfa64b Diane Alisa is an author and founder of the nonprofit End Car Dependency. Her nonprofit helps support families by making it easier to get around safely without a car, build strong support networks, and empower children to be part of their communities.

Diane joins this episode of The Bottom-Up Revolution to discuss the impact of car-dependent design on families and the importance of building integrated communities (or "villages").

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Diane Alisa is an author and founder of the nonprofit End Car Dependency. Her nonprofit helps support families by making it easier to get around safely without a car, build strong support networks, and empower children to be part of their communities.

Diane joins this episode of The Bottom-Up Revolution to discuss the impact of car-dependent design on families and the importance of building integrated communities (or "villages").

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 3606 153 full Bottom-Up Shorts: How Normal People Can Make a Big Difference Bottom-Up Shorts: How Normal People Can Make a Big Difference https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-normal-people-can-make-a-big-difference/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-normal-people-can-make-a-big-difference/#comments Tue, 29 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/af4992e4-298a-3b50-98db-77e3500c3016 Daniel Bloemker is a Strong Towns member and Local Conversation leader from Bellingham, Washington. He’s been instrumental in advancing local efforts on parking reform, housing, and community spaces. He joins Norm in this Bottom-Up Short to discuss these efforts and the progress the city has made.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

  • Want to support advocates like Daniel? Become a Strong Towns member today.

  • Bellingham won the “Most Progress in Building Better Budgets” award in the Strongest Town Contest. There are many great lessons that cities of all sizes can learn from their hard work.

]]> Daniel Bloemker is a Strong Towns member and Local Conversation leader from Bellingham, Washington. He’s been instrumental in advancing local efforts on parking reform, housing, and community spaces. He joins Norm in this Bottom-Up Short to discuss these efforts and the progress the city has made.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES

  • Want to support advocates like Daniel? Become a Strong Towns member today.

  • Bellingham won the “Most Progress in Building Better Budgets” award in the Strongest Town Contest. There are many great lessons that cities of all sizes can learn from their hard work.

]]> Strong Towns false No 834 152 full Elizabeth Turman-Bryant: The Bottom Up Path to Local Leadership Elizabeth Turman-Bryant: The Bottom Up Path to Local Leadership https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/elizabeth-turman-bryant-the-bottom-up-path-to-local-leadership/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/elizabeth-turman-bryant-the-bottom-up-path-to-local-leadership/#comments Thu, 24 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/e1151927-2e88-3a91-80f5-03c6ef4a1ff1 Elizabeth Turman-Bryant is a councilmember in Burlington, Washington. She's passionate about community building, revitalizing historical areas, and making Burlington more bicycle and pedestrian friendly.

Turman-Bryant joins Tiffany to discuss her journey from nonprofit work to local government. She explains some of the projects she’s working on and the importance of striking a balance between the responsiveness of bottom-up activism and the influence of local government involvement.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Elizabeth Turman-Bryant is a councilmember in Burlington, Washington. She's passionate about community building, revitalizing historical areas, and making Burlington more bicycle and pedestrian friendly.

Turman-Bryant joins Tiffany to discuss her journey from nonprofit work to local government. She explains some of the projects she’s working on and the importance of striking a balance between the responsiveness of bottom-up activism and the influence of local government involvement.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 2636 151 full Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Build Bikeable Streets Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Build Bikeable Streets https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-build-bikeable-streets/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-build-bikeable-streets/#comments Tue, 22 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/f05f140a-33c4-3338-92af-afa858f9c890 Denyse Trepanier is the president of Bike Walk Alameda, a nonprofit organization in the island city of Alameda, California. She joins Norm to discuss the city's efforts to improve biking infrastructure, including the creation of a network of low-stress bikeways and neighborhood greenways.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Denyse Trepanier is the president of Bike Walk Alameda, a nonprofit organization in the island city of Alameda, California. She joins Norm to discuss the city's efforts to improve biking infrastructure, including the creation of a network of low-stress bikeways and neighborhood greenways.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 876 150 full Doing the Math as a City Council Member Doing the Math as a City Council Member https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/doing-the-math-as-a-city-council-member/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/doing-the-math-as-a-city-council-member/#comments Tue, 15 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/a3df9b5d-87d4-320c-be01-76d3a8180858 Steven Zittergruen is a city councilor and Strong Towns member from Decorah, Iowa. In this Bottom-Up Short, he joins Norm to discuss the ways he’s making his community stronger. His efforts include revamping Decorah’s budgeting process, helping launch Decorah’s Local Conversation group, and writing about local governance.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Steven Zittergruen is a city councilor and Strong Towns member from Decorah, Iowa. In this Bottom-Up Short, he joins Norm to discuss the ways he’s making his community stronger. His efforts include revamping Decorah’s budgeting process, helping launch Decorah’s Local Conversation group, and writing about local governance.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 1089 149 full Will McCollum: How To Design Prosperous Places Will McCollum: How To Design Prosperous Places https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/will-mccollum-how-to-design-prosperous-places/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/will-mccollum-how-to-design-prosperous-places/#comments Thu, 10 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/e6e8b23a-5f94-3148-882f-789f2f114d12 Will McCollum is a registered architect and the president and co-founder of Citymakers Collective, a nonprofit that teaches aspiring architects and planners how to design resilient, beautiful and prosperous places.

He joins Tiffany on this episode of The Bottom-Up Revolution to talk about what it takes to design environments for human flourishing, as well as the importance of educating the next generation of architects and planners.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Will McCollum is a registered architect and the president and co-founder of Citymakers Collective, a nonprofit that teaches aspiring architects and planners how to design resilient, beautiful and prosperous places.

He joins Tiffany on this episode of The Bottom-Up Revolution to talk about what it takes to design environments for human flourishing, as well as the importance of educating the next generation of architects and planners.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 3681 148 full Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Build a City’s Economic Core Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Build a City’s Economic Core https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-build-a-city-s-economic-core/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-build-a-city-s-economic-core/#comments Tue, 08 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/de7ab909-69a3-3853-990c-97d9ca080da7 Amy Emery is a community leader focused on fostering sustainable growth and smart development in Warrenville, Illinois. In today’s Bottom-Up Short, she joins Norm to discuss several initiatives the city is running, including an incubator program for local businesses and a zoning overlay that allows for mixed-use development.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Amy Emery is a community leader focused on fostering sustainable growth and smart development in Warrenville, Illinois. In today’s Bottom-Up Short, she joins Norm to discuss several initiatives the city is running, including an incubator program for local businesses and a zoning overlay that allows for mixed-use development.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 791 147 full Sarah Rose: Using Art To Advocate for Street Safety Sarah Rose: Using Art To Advocate for Street Safety https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/sarah-rose-using-art-to-advocate-for-street-safety/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/sarah-rose-using-art-to-advocate-for-street-safety/#comments Thu, 03 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/bdc275d3-d364-3304-937e-cf7f83dc39b1 Sarah Rose is an artist from Spokane, Washington, who uses her art to raise awareness about street safety and the protection of native insects. She is active in her city’s Local Conversation, Spokane Reimagined, and often speaks with local reporters and at city council meetings. She joins Tiffany on this episode of The Bottom-Up Revolution to talk about how the intersection of advocacy and art is driving change in Spokane.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Sarah Rose is an artist from Spokane, Washington, who uses her art to raise awareness about street safety and the protection of native insects. She is active in her city’s Local Conversation, Spokane Reimagined, and often speaks with local reporters and at city council meetings. She joins Tiffany on this episode of The Bottom-Up Revolution to talk about how the intersection of advocacy and art is driving change in Spokane.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 2076 146 full Bottom-Up Shorts: How Local Pride Can Strengthen a Town Bottom-Up Shorts: How Local Pride Can Strengthen a Town https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-local-pride-can-strengthen-a-town/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-local-pride-can-strengthen-a-town/#comments Tue, 01 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/3b07804d-4460-3bb1-a278-b1a192e02dfe Hannah Rechtschaffen is the director of the Greenfield Business Association in Greenfield, Massachusetts. She joins Norm on this episode of Bottom-Up Shorts to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities that Greenfield faces and how it’s becoming a stronger town.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Hannah Rechtschaffen is the director of the Greenfield Business Association in Greenfield, Massachusetts. She joins Norm on this episode of Bottom-Up Shorts to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities that Greenfield faces and how it’s becoming a stronger town.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 1069 145 full Kip Santos: Building Strong Cities in Two Countries Kip Santos: Building Strong Cities in Two Countries https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/kip-santos-building-strong-cities-in-two-countries/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/kip-santos-building-strong-cities-in-two-countries/#comments Fri, 28 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/1c9aac99-bf8f-37a1-a4c0-319139933e07 Kip Santos is a trained civil engineer and construction manager who quit his job to build Local Conversations full-time. Now he splits his time between the U.S. and Canada, nurturing the groups he's founded and building missing middle housing

In this episode of The Bottom-Up Revolution, Santos talks about what inspired him to quit his job, what his different groups are working on, and how he became an small-scale developer.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Kip Santos is a trained civil engineer and construction manager who quit his job to build Local Conversations full-time. Now he splits his time between the U.S. and Canada, nurturing the groups he's founded and building missing middle housing

In this episode of The Bottom-Up Revolution, Santos talks about what inspired him to quit his job, what his different groups are working on, and how he became an small-scale developer.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 2237 144 full Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Legalize Strong Neighborhoods Bottom-Up Shorts: How To Legalize Strong Neighborhoods https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-legalize-strong-neighborhoods/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/bottom-up-shorts-how-to-legalize-strong-neighborhoods/#comments Tue, 25 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/05cebe80-aab6-3e5f-b2a8-507da412cbd6 Sean Hayford Oleary is a city council member in Richfield, Minnesota. A Strong Towns member of seven years,  Hayford Oleary has helped reintroduce duplexes, reduce parking mandates, and support walkable, financially strong neighborhoods in his community. In this episode of Bottom-Up Shorts, he and Norm discuss the progress Richfield is making in becoming a stronger town.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Sean Hayford Oleary is a city council member in Richfield, Minnesota. A Strong Towns member of seven years,  Hayford Oleary has helped reintroduce duplexes, reduce parking mandates, and support walkable, financially strong neighborhoods in his community. In this episode of Bottom-Up Shorts, he and Norm discuss the progress Richfield is making in becoming a stronger town.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 903 143 full Montana Gau: Empowering a Network of Advocates Montana Gau: Empowering a Network of Advocates https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/montana-gau-empowering-a-network-of-advocates/ https://littlethings.strongtowns.org/e/montana-gau-empowering-a-network-of-advocates/#comments Thu, 20 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500 thelittlethings.podbean.com/404b97d3-d330-30f8-9241-e71345993f1d Montana Gau is the founder of Strong Denver, a Local Conversation in Colorado. A software engineer by trade, he built the group into a registered nonprofit with a board of directors and several hundred members. Now, city officials are reaching out to the group for collaboration on a variety of initiatives.

In this episode of the The Bottom-Up Revolution, Gau joins Tiffany to discuss Strong Denver’s origins and where the group is now. He talks about how his role shifted as the group grew, from advocating “on the ground” to creating a space where others can more effectively advocate, and the new challenges and opportunities he has because of it.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Montana Gau is the founder of Strong Denver, a Local Conversation in Colorado. A software engineer by trade, he built the group into a registered nonprofit with a board of directors and several hundred members. Now, city officials are reaching out to the group for collaboration on a variety of initiatives.

In this episode of the The Bottom-Up Revolution, Gau joins Tiffany to discuss Strong Denver’s origins and where the group is now. He talks about how his role shifted as the group grew, from advocating “on the ground” to creating a space where others can more effectively advocate, and the new challenges and opportunities he has because of it.

ADDITIONAL SHOW NOTES ]]> Strong Towns false No 2417 142 full