Beyond Benefits: How Dr. Jackie Contreras is Reimagining Public Social Services

Описание: What if public social services weren’t just about meeting basic needs, but about creating opportunity, dignity, and real community connection?

In episode four, we sit down with Dr. Jackie Contreras, Director of the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS), to talk about how she’s transforming the largest local social services agency in the nation.

🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
• The difference between a net and a springboard.
• Why serving people with respect and dignity matters.
• How Dr. Contreras shows up to work.
• That it is not a failure to ask for support.
• The journey from being a recipient of public benefits to now leading the largest social service agency in the United States.

Dr. Contreras brings both heart and strategy to her leadership. This episode goes beyond programs and policies to explore her journey, her bold vision for the future of DPSS, and how public service can be a powerful force for change.

Whether you’re a County employee, a community partner, or just passionate about social impact, this conversation is for you.

Host: Rodney Collins
Producers: Ramla Javed, Flavio Guzman Magaña, Tina Curry
Editor: Alban Kalasa
Associate Editor: Steve Baldwin
Guest: Dr. Jackie Contreras

Live From LA County is a storytelling podcast that celebrates the voices and experiences of Los Angeles County employees. Centered on meaningful conversations, each episode features interviews with County leaders, changemakers, and team members across all levels, highlighting the depth and diversity of our workforce and the shared values that connect us all.

From community engagement and cultural milestones to creative problem-solving and innovation, this podcast invites listeners into honest, inspiring discussions about what it means to serve Los Angeles County. It’s a space to listen, learn, and lead together with empathy and purpose.

The Living Library Series within the podcast is a collection of candid conversations with LA County Department Heads. Hosted by Rodney Collins, Chief Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources, this series offers a closer look at the personal and professional journeys of our County leaders. Each episode dives into unfiltered conversations about their values, career paths, challenges, accomplishments, and what makes their LA County story unique.