☆ County Supervisor candidates analyze media that helped them gain new perspectives in 2023 (bonus)
Giovanni Battista Tiepolo: Allegory of Virtue and Nobility, c. 1747-48. Image in Public Domain.
Betty Duong, Corina Herrera-Loera, and Madison Nguyen—all SCC District 2 Supervisor hopefuls—soar through the highs and lows of '23 to crown what they deem as this year's most meaningful podcasts and TV episodes. An Opp Now exclusive.
Betty Duong, Santa Clara County Supervisor D2 candidate:
I spend a lot of time reading reports and audits, and a good podcast is my perfect way to end the day. My current favorite is Malcolm Gladwell's "Revisionist History,” described as a journey through the overlooked and misunderstood. The majority of episodes follow a simple but effective format: tell the story of something seemingly mundane or inherently familiar, reveal this incredible process of creation or social impact, and end with insightful reflections for the future. The podcast is great storytelling and a hopeful reminder to find the extraordinary in the ordinary.
Corina Herrera-Loera, Santa Clara County Supervisor D2 candidate:
“Reservation Dogs” S2E9, when Willie Jack brought offerings to her aunt and prayed with the ancestors. I’ve been blessed to have these traditions passed down to me. There is no power like that of having a connection with one’s ancestors. Something no money, education or status can get you. This episode was done in a way anyone can understand the depth of such connection. The healing experienced through Willie Jack and her longing for connection to our medicine ways throughout the TV show is also powerful. Healing past, present, and future generations can be this simple and with minimal resources.
Madison Nguyen, Santa Clara County Supervisor D2 candidate:
There is one podcast that I have been listening to this year that has helped enlighten me in ways that I had never expected. It’s called “On Purpose with Jay Shetty - Jay Shetty Podcast.” It’s about health and wellness. I love it because the guests come from all walks of life with vast experiences, triumphs, failures, etc.
What I find fascinating is Jay's incredible ability to make his guests feel comfortable sharing their stories in the most personal and genuine ways.
One of my favorite guests was entrepreneur Emma Grede. I’m inspired by her passion to succeed and her determination to move beyond fear. The worst advice she ever received was “stay in your own lane.” Best advice was “make a decision and move on.”
Listening to Jay’s podcast is not only educational, but also therapeutic. What I appreciate the most is that it helps me to always believe in myself. No matter how challenging things can be at times, as long as I work hard, treat people with respect, and focus on the end goal, successful results are attainable.
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Local political watchdogs recommend enlightening reads/watches of '23 (2/5)
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