Episode 9 of our In the Pursuit… conversation series brings Karla Ballard and Mike O’Bryan together for a sit down with Ronnie Polaneczky to explore what it means to build a thriving neighborhood for all, and how their on-the-ground work right here in Philadelphia is helping our communities flourish.
They discuss the power of leading by recognizing our shared humanity — and why that is critical to finally fulfilling the unfulfilled promises of our country’s founding as we approach America’s 250th in 2026.
Tune in and get inspired to think differently about how to take action in your own neighborhood.
TED Talk: Theaster Gates
How to revive a neighborhood: with imagination, beauty + art
Jennifer Jordan, for the Philadelphia Inquirer
Philanthropy fails in its approach to inequality. Here’s a way to change it.
Becoming a Citizen Planner
Philadelphia Citizens Planning Institute Resource Guide
Share Your Vision for 2026 on Instagram
Search “PHILADELPHIA250” in the Instagram stickers GIF section and tag us using #Philly250
