(Bonus Episode) Live from Encanto: Shawn McClondon on Equity, Sister Cities & Building Sustainable Community Power

About This Episode

Recorded live at the Encanto Experience, this bonus episode captures a powerful conversation on equity, economic empowerment, and community-driven transformation. Host Taryell Simmons and co-host Zeke Corley of Same Business Different Day Podcast sit down with Shawn McClondon, founder of the Sister Cities Project, the nonprofit organization supporting the Encanto Experience.

Shawn shares how he pioneered formal partnerships between affluent and underserved communities, fostering cultural understanding and sustainable economic development. Through the Sister Cities Project ecosystem, he harmonizes workforce development, community connection, and business growth initiatives designed to uplift underserved communities of color.

He also discusses:

• The strategic vision behind (Eco)Hub, (Eco)Exchange, and (Eco)Agency
• Leading over 40 social justice, DEI, and racial equity discussions
• Building cross-sector partnerships throughout San Diego County and nationally
• Why equity must move from dialogue to structural transformation

This episode also celebrates the Encanto Experience as a culturally rooted professional development space where community, creativity, and commerce intersect.

Special thanks to Brooke Collins, the powerhouse organizer behind the Encanto Experience, and to Marathon Barbershop on Imperial Avenue for hosting this live recording in a space filled with art, culture, and legacy.

If you’re watching this episode on YouTube, take a moment to appreciate the artwork behind us. If you’re listening, we’ve included links below so you can experience Encanto next year.

Learn More

Sister Cities Project: HERE

Encanto Experience: HERE

Marathon Barbershop – Imperial Avenue

Episode Contributors

Host: Taryell Simmons

Co-Host: Zeke Corley (Same Business Different Day Podcast)

Guest: Shawn McClondon

Music: Will Maker

Production: RISE Urban Nation Media

Special Acknowledgment:

Brooke Collins – Encanto Experience Organizer

Marathon Barbershop – Venue Host

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