Timebanking gains momentum.
Large yellow billboard cut out letters spelling "Yes"
Unlocking Our Most Valuable Resource: Time
Hey Timebankers! We are so happy you are here!
Timebanking has recently been in the spotlight on a couple of great podcasts. In this blog, I’ll share some key takeaways, what it means for San Diego, and point you toward resources that can deepen your timebanking journey. Learning about the different iterations of timebanking was fascinating, and I highly recommend taking a listen!
Freakonomics: The World’s Most Valuable Unused Resource
Listen here: Freakonomics Radio Episode
This episode features Nathan Dietz (Do Good Institute, University of Maryland), Al Roth (Stanford University), Andrew Yang (Forward Party), and Krista Wyatt (CEO of Timebanks.org). Together they explore the pros, cons, and possibilities of an alternative economy built on human value.
Freakonomics points out, timebanking holds mass potential to connect people, yet timebanks often sputter out. Our own Timebank SD was in such a lull… but not for long <wink, wink>. Part of the problem is securing funding for organizing efforts and operations. There are real costs to operating within our current system. That being said, collaborators & donors are welcome!
A more challenging hurdle is how to shift our culture: in today’s economy, many adults have very little time left to connect with others between work, sleep, chores, and meals. The result? Communities, and our mental and physical health suffer.
Did you know:
1 in 3 adults over 45 report feeling lonely
1 in 4 adults over 65 are socially isolated
In 2021, Cigna found 65% of parents feel lonely , and among single parents, that number climbs to 77%
The U.S. Surgeon General even released an advisory warning that parenthood is dangerous to one’s health
What it means for San Diego: Timebanking is one way to build against loneliness. Each exchange strengthens social bonds, creating a local safety net where everyone’s contributions and needs matter.
Heart Health Month with Kathy Perlow
Listen here: February’s Heart Health Month with Kathy Perlow
Kathy Perlow, a healthcare worker and long-time timebanker, brings it home: health isn’t just medical — it’s emotional and social. Loneliness strains the heart, while connection heals it. Humans are meant to be in community and relationship with one another and in fact, our bodies operate better when we have healthy social connections.
What it means for San Diego: Every meal shared, every ride given, every friendly check-in call is a health intervention. By building relationships through timebanking, we’re also building healthier bodies and minds across San Diego.
TimeBanks.Org Podcast — Stories, Lessons, and Inspiration
Listen here: TimeBanks.Org Podcast
The TimeBanks.Org podcast offers stories and lessons from across the movement. Each episode blends real experiences from timebankers with reflections on what they mean for trust, reciprocity, and building community. Recent episodes explore:
How timebanking strengthens emotional and physical health
Practical tips for growing and managing a timebank
How other communities are experimenting with complementary currencies and exchange systems
What it means for Timebank SD: This podcast is a reminder that we’re part of something bigger. Each exchange in San Diego adds to a global movement of people building a more caring economy. It also gives us practical lessons we can use as we grow toward 1,500 members and beyond.
Imagine the Possibilities
Timebanking is simple: one hour of service = one time credit. But the impact is profound.
Imagine if each of us in San Diego started by timebanking with just our existing networks: neighbors, coworkers, groups, and friends. Together, we could weave a powerful social safety net that ensures everyone has what they need and no one’s time or talents go to waste.
Ready to Join?
Timebank SD is free to join, easy to use, and open to everyone. Every single one of us has something valuable to share.