Welcome to Beyond The Heights
From the streets of Logan Heights to communities everywhere, join us as we explore the stories, strategies, and solutions that redefine resilience and spark change.
In communities like Logan Heights, we face significant obstacles such as educational and economic disparities, as well as the over-incarceration of Black and brown youth. But we aren’t just talking about these issues—we’re actively working to overcome them.
Welcome to Beyond the Heights—a Logan Heights Community Development Corporation podcast where we amplify voices, tackle challenges, and envision a brighter future for all.
Meet the host, Monte A. Jones
Monte A. Jones is the President and CEO of Logan Heights Community Development Corporation, a role he has held since 2006. With over 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, he is dedicated to equitable and sustainable community development, focusing on cultivating community-based leadership, improving health and educational outcomes for communities of color, and fostering cross-sector partnerships.
A 20-year U.S. Navy veteran, Monte has also served in various civic leadership roles, including on the City of San Diego Citizens Equal Opportunity Commission. He is a current board member of California Coast Credit Union and holds both a bachelor’s degree and an MBA, along with advanced training in nonprofit leadership and community development.
Episode Details Episode 4: Legends Leave Legacies: The Fight for Justice in Our Community
In honor of Black History Month, the Beyond the Heights podcast welcomed a true legend into our building: distinguished San Diego civil rights activist Dr. Harold K. Brown. In this compelling conversation, we explore Dr. Brown’s unwavering determination and dedication to uplifting the Black community in San Diego, even in the face of extreme adversity. Join us as we delve into his struggles, victories, and the enduring legacy of his work toward a more just and equitable society.
Episode 3: Breaking Barriers: Women Leading Change
In our third episode of Beyond the Heights, host Monte Jones and San Diego County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe have an inspiring conversation about women leading change. Drawing from her experience at City Hall and the County, Supervisor Montgomery Steppe offers insights to women looking to lead in politics and beyond, and shares her hopes for future generations of leaders.
Episode 2: Becoming A Modern Leader
In this episode of Beyond the Heights, host Monte Jones sits down with Chris Lewis and Inez Robinson-Odom of TEAM LEWIS for a refreshing and thought-provoking conversation on leadership. Drawing from their book, The Silent Rebellion: Becoming a Modern Leader, Chris and Inez challenge conventional ideas about leadership and reveal how true leadership starts with who you are—not just what you do.
Episode 1: Empowering the Next Generation.
January 2, 2025
In our first episode, “Empowering the Next Generation,” host Monte A. Jones talks with community leaders and activists Cornelius Bowser (Shaphat Outreach) and Terrence Shigg (Any Body Can Youth Foundation) about gun violence prevention and how to keep Black & brown youth out of the justice system and on the path to prosperity. This special debut was recorded in front of a live audience of our Youth Empowerment & Diversion (YED) clients at our inaugural YED Family Connections Dinner.