Thriving Neighborhoods Lab

The Thriving Neighborhoods Podcast explores what it takes to create lasting transformation in historically disinvested communities. Hosted by Cerca Solutions founders Kirk and Markos Wester-Rivera, each episode features conversations about ideas and innovations working at the intersection of housing, education, economic opportunity, and community leadership.
Drawing from decades of lived experience and proven neighborhood development expertise, we unpack practical strategies, challenge conventional approaches, and share promising and effective frameworks to advance the work of inclusive community development. You'll hear Kirk and Markos work through complex questions together, and Kirk's in-depth interviews with practitioners, community leaders, and innovators doing transformative work across the country.

What does it really take to stand up a community quarterback organization? How do you build on community strengths while bringing in necessary external resources? How do you measure holistic impact beyond programs implemented? Every 30-45 minute conversation is grounded in real projects, hard-won lessons, and the kind of systems thinking that leads to meaningful change.
Whether you're a community quarterback, nonprofit leader, funder, or local government official, you'll gain actionable insights for creating holistic change—even with limited resources.

New episodes release every two weeks. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and visit cerca.solutions to learn more about our work.