I’m a native San Diegan, and entrepreneur.
I like being an entrepreneur because it’s the closest I get to solving problems. It’s a mindset and approach that I continue to build over time and apply to every role I have. I dreamt of and own my business Cafe X: By Any Beans Necessary because I am on my own journey of development, just like you, and everyone else around me. In the process of providing good service to people, jobs, and good products, we learn about ourselves – and we can bring large-scale economic prosperity to communities that need support and guidance. Resilience is not just about surviving a challenge but it is about growing capacity with each positive action. Each time we serve a customer from a place of love, gratitude, and joy we increase our resilience, and that ripple effect goes out into the community. I want people to see and feel this possibility; to be inspired. Simplifying a life process down to its smallest pieces: today, this cup of coffee and this conversation.
Roles:
Co-Owner, Cafe X: By Any Beans Necessary, collaborative hub and community space ushering in the new economy.
Director of Economic Mobility and Opportunity at Jewish Family Service of San Diego, developing new approaches to help end old problems.
About Khea Pollard
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I’m the director of the Economic Mobility and Opportunity division at Jewish Family Service and owner of Cafe X: By Any Beans Necessary. I like to build things that have a real, meaningful impact on people’s lives. The thing I love most about what I do is the constant learning, the field knowledge I gain from being with the people I serve, and the application of this understanding. I have worked in, and actively continue to work in the business, nonprofit, and government sectors – and all have their place. But the most interesting thread is exploring the pulse of community.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
I would say the true frontier is inside you.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Probably with some kids and a man I love, perhaps another business, maybe traveling. We’ll see!
Khea Pollard & Our Community
Q: What are a few of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Arrivederci in Hillcrest and Pho Hoa in City Heights.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
My career is rooted here, save a short period working for an organization in DC.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I like the enclaves where you can find pieces of serenity. All are super unique and interesting in their own ways.
Q: If you could choose anyone alive today and not a relative, with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you meet for this lunch?
Captain Sully Sullenberger, where are you? I’d like to pick his brain and understand how he views and approaches life. He’s a pretty brilliant guy. I’d take him to Lake Murray and do a few laps.
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
The Wire
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I used to dance in a dance company. I can also sing and draw a little bit.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
God/Spirit, Creator.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
Close friends and advisors.
Q: What community organizations and/or local nonprofits do you admire/support?
Jewish Family Service, Casa Familiar, Food System Alliance
Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend:
Tacos and a bonfire.
Q: Finally, what three words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
It’s all about perspective.
