In this debut episode of The Neighbor Effect, I speak with Dave Ptach and Siobhan Burke, the inspiring forces behind Stairstreet Advocates, a community dedicated to restoring and preserving Los Angeles’ iconic stair streets. We discuss how their walks and cleanups have grown into a vibrant social club, fostering connections and care for the city.
We also explore broader urban initiatives reshaping LA—from creating safer streets to enhancing walkability and building community resilience. Tune in to learn about impactful projects and get practical advice for making neighborhoods more walkable, connected, and thriving.
Produced by Urban Therapy. Join us on Instagram for behind-the-scenes photos, stories, and updates on urban initiatives worldwide.
Mentioned initiatives and organizations:
Los Angeles WalksNational Walk to School DayLos Feliz Neighborhood Council’s Grants Friends of the Los Angeles RiverCicLAviaInvesting in PlaceHyperion Street Safety CoalitionParklets and Plazas ProgramBook by Eric Klinenberg - Palaces for the PeopleBarcelona's SuperblocksLivable Communities Initiative
Credits:
Creator and host – Darya SannikovaComposer / Sound Mixing – SybeCover – Eleonora Nekrasova
Special thanks to our guests:
Dave Ptach and Los Angeles Stairstreet AdvocatesSiobhan Burke and Lyric Design & Planning
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