In this heartfelt episode of Candid & Curious with Nina, we sit down with Chef Lorris “Pops-G” Gibson, the Executive Chef at Faith Kitchen on the Haven for Hope campus. Known for his deep compassion, creativity, and culinary expertise, Chef Lorris and his team prepares thousands of meals every week for San Antonio’s homeless community — proving that food is more than sustenance; it’s connection, dignity, and hope.

We’ll explore Chef Lorris’s inspiring journey — from his roots and challenges to his calling in the kitchen, his experience with the Chick-fil-A Shared Table program, and how he uses food to heal and serve. This episode is a story of redemption, service, and the extraordinary power of one person choosing to feed both stomachs and souls.

In this episode of Candid & Curious with Nina, we dive deep into the world of neurodivergence and advocacy with Nicole Santiago, M.Ed., learning specialist and founder of Family ADDventures Advocacy. Nicole shares her journey from struggling to secure support for her own son, to becoming a powerful advocate for families navigating the education system.

We explore what it means to be neurodivergent in a neurotypical world, why advocacy is essential, and how parents, educators, and individuals can better understand and embrace different ways of thinking. This is a candid, heartfelt, and empowering conversation about building confidence, breaking stigma, and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.

In this episode of Candid & Curious, Nina sits down with powerhouse musician Alyson Alonzo, a self-taught singer-songwriter whose voice has been compared to legends like Joni Mitchell and Billie Holiday. Known for her soulful performances, community impact, and unapologetic authenticity, Alyson shares her journey of becoming an artist, how she found her unique sound, and why representation matters for the LGBTQ and youth communities she uplifts. Together, Nina and Alyson explore the raw truths of creativity, identity, and the courage it takes to use your voice.