Ameritocracy

In this very special episode of Ameritocracy, host Troy Edgar travels to Sacramento to meet with Dan Walters, one of California's most syndicated columnists and author. He has covered the state's political scene since 1975, spending over 33 years at the Sacramento Bee, and currently writes for CalMatters.  Dan shares his insights on California's evolution from a Republican-leaning to a solidly Democratic state, shaped by shifts in industry and demographics. He highlights the state's heavy reliance on high-income taxpayers, which makes its budget vulnerable to economic swings and delves into pressing issues—like education, transportation, and housing affordability—that jeopardize its future.  With over 50 years in journalism and four books on California's politics, Dan brings a seasoned perspective on the policies shaping the state's economic and political trajectory.    Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week on the Ameritocracy show, host Troy Edgar is in Washington, D.C. where he sits down with Ray Shieh, Quantum Safe Senior Product Marketing Manager at IBM for a fascinating conversation on the rapid advancement in quantum computing. Ray shares his journey from leading cybersecurity efforts at Microsoft, both in Taiwan and Washington state, to his current role at IBM where he specializes in post-quantum cryptography and quantum-safe computing.   Ray also discusses how he leverages his marketing and cybersecurity experience to explore potential quantum applications and highlights the importance of quantum-safe cryptography in safeguarding data from future threats.    Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

Welcome to our monthly series where we dive into challenging topics, current events, explore faith, and much more. Expect fresh insights from familiar faces and new voices as we engage in candid discussions. Join us for open and honest fellowship, embracing diverse perspectives. Featured guest: Anne Collier, certified executive coach and CEO of Arudia, a coaching and training firm based in Washington, D.C. Topics explored in this episode: Does a degree still have value? The importance of well-rounded skills Resume building Micro-credentialing do's and don'ts Leadership development Wall Street Journal article 'College Doesn't Need to Take Four Years' can be found here. Forbes article 'What are Microcredentials? A Complete Guide' can be found here. Take the Actualized Leadership Profile to find out to how your leadership can both positively and negatively influence your team and organizational culture.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, Ameritocracy visits Sacramento, California where host Troy Edgar had the opportunity to meet with Cath Reheis-Boyd, President and CEO of the Western States Petroleum Association, representing the industry's interest in exploration, production, refining, and transportation across California, Arizona, Nevada, Washington, and Oregon.  From her roots in natural resource management to nearly 40 years in the energy sector, Cath discusses California's evolving oil and gas landscape, the challenges of recent state policies on drilling, and the balance needed between environmental goals and economic stability. Her insights shed light on how California's energy policies impact the entire West Coast and the nation. Tune in to hear from an industry leader committed to pragmatic solutions and passionate about guiding the energy sector into a future of meaningful change.     Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

On this week's episode of Ameritocracy, host Troy Edgar is joined in L.A. by James Bogle, the Director of the Master of Business for Veterans Program (MBV) at the USC Marshall School of Business. A seasoned Army veteran with extensive leadership experience, James shares his insights into the challenges veterans face transitioning to civilian life. We discussed the USC MBV program and how it equips veterans with the business acumen needed to thrive in corporate America or start their own venture. James highlights the importance of the program's cohort model in fostering invaluable in-person connections with other students and mentors who have contributed to its success. Troy is proud to support USC veteran students as a mentor and is excited about the MBV program's future, expanding its reach to other universities to increase awareness of its benefits for countless veterans.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, Ameritocracy travels to Sacramento, California, where host Troy Edgar meets with Rob Stutzman. Rob is a veteran political strategist and communications expert with extensive experience in California politics. He is the founder and president of Stutzman Public Affairs, a leading consultancy that advises on political campaigns, media relations, and crisis communications. Stutzman is well-known for his role as the deputy chief of staff for communications to former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. His expertise in managing high-profile campaigns and navigating complex political landscapes makes him a key figure in political strategy, particularly within California. Rob shares his perspective on the leading presidential candidates, their campaigns, and the latest polling data. Beyond his strategic expertise, Rob is also the host of the popular podcast “Highball Politics”.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

In this episode of Ameritocracy, host Troy Edgar meets with JB Jaso at our L.A. studio. JB, a former US Army veteran, who made the successful transition from military service to a leadership role in the sports industry. From his Long Beach roots, to serving his country and now overseeing security for the Los Angeles Angels, we look into the challenges and rewards of his military service, including his expertise in Army's Special Operations CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosives) unit and how he prepared for post-service life. JB also discusses Major League Baseball stadium security and his unwavering commitment to giving back. He shares his involvement with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, a cause close to his heart, and his leadership role in the Orange County affiliate. Get ready for an inspiring conversation about leadership, service, and community. A great follow-up episode is E36: MLB Pro Scouts Brad (SF Giants), Taylor (TX Rangers) Cameron on Identifying & Developing Talent. Two scouts, 4 World Series rings. Scouting top talent is like stepping up to the plate—whether in business or sports, finding that MVP is every leader's toughest play. In this episode, we dive into how to call strikes on character, make clutch calls on potential, and use tech to knock talent discovery out of the park.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week on Ameritocracy, host Troy Edgar delves into the life of automotive pioneer Henry Ford. From his humble beginning on a Michigan farm to his role in revolutionizing transportation, Ford's story is a testament to innovation. We'll explore how his development of the Model T and the assembly line made cars more accessible, transforming the way people lived and worked. However, we'll also examine the darker side of his legacy, including his controversial views and his complex relationship with labor unions. Join us for insights into Ford's philosophies on wealth, society, and philanthropy. Recommended reading: "My Life and Work" by Henry Ford.    Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington DC.

This week on the Ameritocracy show, host Troy Edgar is joined in Washington, D.C. by Author, Jennifer Pahlka, a leading voice in transforming government for the digital age. They discuss Jen's New York Times-acclaimed book, "Recoding America: Why Government is Failing in the Digital Age and How We Can Do Better." Jen also helped establish the United States Digital Service while serving as U.S. Deputy Chief Technology Officer. She is currently the co-founder of U.S. Digital Response, a non-profit organization assisting governments, nonprofits, and public entities in responding quickly to critical public needs. She is a Senior Fellow at both the Niskanen Center and Federation of American Scientists, think tanks in Washington, D.C.   Follow Jen on Substack at Eating Policy, where she talks about the problems of state capacity (government's ability to achieve its policy goals) and how to fix them.    Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington DC.

This week, Ameritocracy is in Washington, D.C. where host Troy Edgar is joined by Holly Mehringer, Assistant Administrator and Chief Financial Officer for the Transportation Security Administration. Holly shares her incredible journey from Massillon, Ohio, and her 18-year civil service career in the Air Force, her transition to the Department of Homeland Security, and her current role as the CFO for TSA, managing the agency's $11 billion budget. Holly discusses the challenges and rewards of her role and the importance of effective communication and collaboration with key stakeholders, including OMB and Congress. Her passion for her work, leadership, and commitment to public service is inspiring and makes her an effective federal leader. Learn more about PALACE Acquire (PAQ) and other training programs here.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington DC.

This week, host Troy Edgar is joined in Washington, D.C. by Steve Laurance, Chief Financial Officer at the Federal Trade Commission. Steve shares his insights from a career spanning the Department of Defense, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the FTC. From his military background to his leadership roles in high-pressure federal agencies, Steve offers unique perspectives on public service, financial management, and the importance of consumer protection. He discusses the challenges of balancing budgets, overseeing investigations, and ensuring the FTC's mission is fulfilled. Steve also provides his personal stories about the lessons he's learned and the importance of work-life balance.    Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington DC.

Welcome to our monthly series where we dive into challenging topics, current events, explore faith, and much more. Expect fresh insights from familiar faces and new voices as we engage in candid discussions. Join us for open and honest fellowship, embracing diverse perspectives. Featured guest: Rev. Barry Richards is a dear friend and mentor. He currently serves the Pentecostal City Mission Church in Los Angeles, California.  Topics explored in this episode: The value of a fresh perspective Importance of a growth mindset The role of contemplation Balancing expertise and risk Leveraging mastery Recommended reading: #1 New York Times bestseller "Atomic Habits" by James Clear. Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington DC.

This week, host Troy Edgar is joined in Washington, D.C. by Stacy Marcott, the acting Chief Financial Officer for the Department of Homeland Security. Stacy talks about her strategies for overseeing a massive $90 billion budget, modernizing crucial financial systems, and fostering collaboration across multiple agencies.  With a distinguished federal career, beginning in the U.S. Navy, Stacy brings a unique perspective and a commitment to excellence to her role. She discusses how her military experience and great mentors has shaped her approach to financial management, and about the innovative training and workforce development initiatives she has implemented at DHS. Stacy also shares her insights on leadership, collaboration, and the lessons she's learned throughout her career. This episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes work that ensures the security and well-being of our nation are taken care of!   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington DC.

This week, host Troy Edgar examines the complex legacy of John D. Rockefeller, the oil tycoon whose business practices and philanthropic endeavors shaped the 19th and early 20th centuries.  Rockefeller's story is one of ambition, innovation, and controversy. In this episode, we discuss his business strategies, including vertical integration, which led to Standard Oil's near-monopoly of the oil industry. And how he channeled his massive wealth into charitable causes that impacted education, healthcare, and scientific research.  Join us as we explore the interplay between business, government, and public interest that remains relevant today.  Recommended reading: Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow's acclaimed biography "Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr." Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington DC.

This week on Ameritocracy, while in Washington, D.C. host Troy Edgar had the opportunity to interview Benjamin Moncarz, the Food and Drug Administration's Chief Financial Officer. Benjamin oversees the agency's $7.2B budget, ensuring funds align with the FDA's mission to safeguard the health of over 300 million Americans and accelerate scientific innovation that drives the U.S. economy. Benjamin's previous role as the Deputy CFO of the Federal Emergency Management Agency during the COVID pandemic gave him a unique perspective on managing a large-scale operation in a dynamic environment. In this episode, we discuss the FDA's budget management, resource allocation, and the critical role that partnerships and user fees play in driving scientific innovation. Lastly, we discussed “What is the potential of AI and technology in finance operations?” Watch the rest of our Federal CFO series on YouTube!   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington DC.

This week on Ameritocracy, host Troy Edgar is joined in Washington, D.C. by Irving Dennis, the former Chief Financial Officer of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. During his time at HUD, Irv served as the Secretary's top financial advisor and managed the Department's $48B Budget. He is also the author of "Transforming a Federal Agency", where he shares his experience leading a comprehensive financial and digital overhaul that resulted in HUD's first clean audit opinion in eight years. Having both served as CFOs leading billion-dollar federal agencies, Irv and Troy discuss their journeys from the private sector into government, the Senate confirmation process, and their shared commitment to government modernization. One key takeaway from their conversation is the critical role of transparency, compliance, and effective leadership in achieving lasting change for the betterment of the American people.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington DC.

This week, Ameritocracy is in Washington, D.C. where we explore the world of international finance. Our guest is Reginald Mitchell, the U.S. Agency for International Development's Chief Financial Officer. Reggie oversees the agency's $25 billion budget, ensuring funds are used effectively to support development programs in over 100 countries. With a background in the Navy and senior financial roles at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Reggie's expertise provides a unique lens into managing USAID's budgets, accounting systems, and fiscal policies.  We'll discuss the challenges and rewards of stewarding taxpayer dollars for global impact, the role of technology in modernizing financial management, and the importance of his mission.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington DC.

This week on the Ameritocracy show, host Troy Edgar is joined in Washington, D.C. for an insightful conversation with Michael Parrish, Chief Acquisition Officer and Principal Executive Director for the Office of Acquisition, Logistics, and Construction for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.  Mike serves as a senior advisor to the Secretary and leads over 17,000 acquisition professionals, responsible for the Department's $58 billion Supply Chain spend and over $100 billion in major programs.  Mike and his team support the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States, providing care at over 1,200 healthcare facilities, to over 9 million Veterans enrolled in the VA healthcare program. Tune in for a deep dive into how the VA is adopting innovative procurement strategies and maintaining flexibility to respond to changing needs, artificial intelligence, and new technologies. Follow-up links mentioned in this episode: PathFinder, the VA's latest program, seeks your innovative solutions to make a lasting impact on Veterans, families, and caregivers. Discover more at: https://pathfinder.va.gov/ Veterans Legacy Memorial is an online memorial that honors nearly 10 million Veterans interred in VA National Cemeteries, VA grant-funded cemeteries, DoD-managed cemeteries (including Arlington National Cemetery); U.S. Park Service National Cemeteries, and thousands of private cemeteries where Veterans have received a VA-provided gravesite marker since 1996, explore more: https://www.vlm.cem.va.gov/   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington DC.

This week, host Troy Edgar explores the life and lasting impact of J.P. Morgan, the titan of American finance.  In this episode, we trace J.P. Morgan's company transformation from a family enterprise to a global financial powerhouse. Learn how his business practices laid the groundwork for modern banking and inadvertently sparked antitrust laws such as the Sherman Antitrust Act and the Clayton Act. Join us as we examine the interplay between business, government, and public interest that is still as relevant today as it was in the Progressive Era.  Recommended reading: Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow's acclaimed biography "The House of Morgan: An American Banking Dynasty and the Rise of Modern Finance" A great follow-up episode is E21: U.S. Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA) on Big Tech Antitrust Issues and Bipartisan Cooperation.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington DC.

Sidebar Conversations is our monthly series where we dive into challenging topics, current events, explore faith, and much more. Expect fresh insights from familiar faces and new voices as we engage in candid discussions. Join us for open and honest friendship, embracing diverse perspectives. Featured guest: Rich Pierce, a highly respected International Surfing Association (ISA) and Head Olympic judge, returns to the Olympic stage for the 2024 Tahiti Games. The veteran judge, who played a role in surfing's historic Olympic debut at Tokyo 2020, shared his story and insights into the world of professional sports judging in Episode 17 of the Ameritocracy podcast. Topics explored in this episode: The process of selecting judges for the Olympics Competitor qualifications The dangerous conditions and unique challenges of surfing Teahupo'o Wave quality and how it impacts the surfer's score Impact of the Olympics on the surfing industry   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

In this week's episode of Ameritocracy, host Troy Edgar spoke with Dr. John Zangardi, CEO of Redhorse. Dr. Zangardi is a U.S. Navy veteran and Washington DC technology leader who previously served as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at both the Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security. He has also been a mentor to Troy, and they had previously co-authored an article on the federal government's use of the Technology Modernization Fund. The discussion centers on their shared experiences serving at the Department of Homeland Security and evaluation of the differences in organizational structure and the ease of implementing technology at DHS compared to the DOD. Dr. Zangardi and Edgar also explored the potential applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in government operations and maintenance. The conversation concludes with their thoughts on consolidating AI responsibilities within federal departments under the CIO to streamline implementation and avoid bureaucratic delays. Article referenced in this episode: "Adopting Generative AI: Pathways for Defense" - Business Executives for National Security Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week on Ameritocracy, Troy is joined in Washington D.C. by IBM's Federal Cybersecurity Services Leader Alice Fakir. They talk about their roles at  IBM, focusing on the intersection of supply chain and cybersecurity. Alice discusses how AI is transforming cyber defense strategies and explains the concept and purpose of a "cyber range" and how it is used for training cybersecurity professionals. Lastly, Alice and Troy break down the policy role of the White House and the Department of Commerce and the importance of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, better known as NIST. Alice provides a great overview of the careers available in cybersecurity and discusses the potential opportunities for our US veterans. Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

Picking up from E57: "AI's Societal Shift", Troy and Barry delve deeper into AI's evolution. They explore job losses across all sectors, the ethics of AI-generated deceased loved ones, and the need for government regulation and personal adaptation to this rapidly changing technological landscape. Sidebar Conversations is our monthly series where we dive into challenging topics, current events, explore faith, and much more. Expect fresh insights from familiar faces and new voices as we engage in candid discussions. Join us for open and honest friendship, embracing diverse perspectives. Featured guest: Rev. Barry Richards is a dear friend and mentor. He currently serves the Pentecostal City Mission Church in Los Angeles, California.  Topics explored around Artificial Intelligence in this episode: Job automation Ethical implications AI regulations Role of government Digital afterlife "The Ages of Globalization: Geography, Technology, and Institutions" by Jeffrey D. Sachs can be found here. Articles referenced in this episode: "UK Stands to Lose 8 Million Jobs from AI.” - Bloomberg and  "AI Can Recreate Loved Ones After They Die. Is That Good or Bad?" - Wall Street Journal.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar met with Mike Burkenbine, CEO of the Becket Film Fund at the Ameritocracy L.A. Studios. Mike had recently returned from the Marché du Film - Festival de Cannes in France, who had invited him to speak about film financing on the main stage. We had a great discussion about his career and the focus of Becket Film Fund. Mike is an expert in evaluating film and TV market trends, financial projections, demographics, and marketing and distribution strategies. He has been involved in the entertainment industry since the mid 1990's when he worked at Nielsen and developed an analytics platform that enabled studios to optimize acquisitions and greenlighting of films. This tool has been adopted by most major studios including The Walt Disney Company, Warner Bros. Entertainment, and Sony. Now leading the Becket Film Fund, Mike explains the industry's "Triple Conundrum" that producers experience. And he emphasizes the importance of people wishing to begin a career in the film industry to understand what they can offer that the industry needs.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar met with Dan Nelson, Executive Director of Tax and Customs for Hyundai at the Ameritocracy L.A. Studio. Dan shared his perspective on current policies that are having a significant tax impact on all corporations and the effect of the OECD's new 15% minimum global corporate tax rate. OECD (Organization of Economic Cooperation & Development) is an international organization based in Paris, France and is comprised of 38 member countries, including the United States, which establishes tax rules for corporations to pay in all countries they are doing business. Troy and Dan also discuss the loss of U.S. sovereignty over international tax cooperation and the taxation concerns of the digital economy.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

Sidebar Conversations welcomes back Barry Richards! This episode's topic is the ethical complexity of AI and the impact we are starting to see in society and the workforce. Welcome to our monthly series where we dive into challenging topics, current events, explore faith, and much more. Expect fresh insights from familiar faces and new voices as we engage in candid discussions. Join us for open and honest fellowship, embracing diverse perspectives. Featured guest: Rev. Barry Richards is a dear friend and mentor. He currently serves the Pentecostal City Mission Church in Los Angeles, California.  Topics explored around Artificial Intelligence in this episode: Technology advancements Ethical considerations Societal impact Job displacement Faith Articles referenced in this episode: 'Suddenly There Aren't Enough Babies. The Whole World Is Alarmed.' - Wall Street Journal   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar met with Mohammad Khan, Managing Attorney at MNK Law at our L.A. studio. Mohammad is a respected lawyer in the business world and he shares his insights on navigating the legal landscape of contract, labor, and employment law. Troy and Mohammad discuss the three situations and questions entrepreneurs should consider when selecting legal representation for their startups and how the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) is impacting California employers. If you are facing a lawsuit or a legal situation for the first time, this is a must hear episode! In closing Mohammad offers his perspective on California's economic future, he encourages business owners to stay informed, engage your elected officials, and importantly, be active in your communities to help implement change.  Recommended reading: Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.  

This week, host Troy Edgar traveled to Santa Monica and met with Kara Bilkiss, Vice President of Mobile Commerce at Activision Blizzard. Kara and Troy worked together at Disney in 2013 and 2014 and continued to stay in touch.  At Activision Blizzard, Kara leads the mobile commercial strategy for franchises including: Call of Duty Mobile, Diablo Immortal, Warcraft Rumble, and Candy Crush Saga.  In this episode, we talked about her career as a gaming executive and her previous roles at Skydance Interactive, Rogue Games, and Sony Pictures.  We also discussed the $190B a year gaming industry and she also offers advice for aspiring game industry professionals, stressing the importance of hard work, resilience, and a willingness to learn.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar dives into the life and contributions of Alexander Hamilton, one of America's founding fathers. Hamilton's life exemplifies that not everyone starts at the same place and sometimes you have to create your own opportunities.  In this episode, we'll explore how Hamilton built his success from immigrant to the first US Secretary of Treasury and how he laid the groundwork for the financial systems that continue to influence our modern economy.  Recommended reading: Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow's acclaimed biography 'Alexander Hamilton'.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

We are celebrating one year of the Ameritocracy Podcast with a special anniversary episode! Join host Troy Edgar as he delves into the podcast's mission of exploring personal and professional growth, reflects on the past 52 episodes, and unveils Producer Sarah's favorite episodes. We want to hear yours too! Share your favorite Ameritocracy Podcast moment with us in the comments on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube. Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

Welcome to our monthly series where we dive into challenging topics, current events, explore faith, and much more. Expect fresh insights from familiar faces and new voices as we engage in candid discussions. Join us for open and honest fellowship, embracing diverse perspectives. Featured guest: Anne Collier, certified executive coach and CEO of Arudia, a coaching and training firm based in Washington, D.C. Topics explored in this episode: * Recent FDIC article published in the Wall Street Journal * Psychological safety in the workplace * Work culture * Problem-solving mindset * Leadership Wall Street Journal article 'FDIC Investigation Finds Culture Rife with Sexual Harassment, Discrimination' can be found here. Anne Collier's article 'Amplify Engagement with Safety' can be found here. Register for Arudia's upcoming events 'Upgrade Your Personal Operating Systems' here and 'Build Your Executive Presence' here. For more coaching and training resources such as events and webinars: https://arudia.com/arudia-calendar/   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar met with Surf City USA's City Attorney Michael Gates, in our L.A. studio. Michael was elected to City Attorney in 2014 and has been a recognized force in his community and across California on key issues of local control and voter ID. In this episode, Michael delves into his career trajectory and aspirations, contemplating a potential future shift toward the federal judiciary. He candidly voices concerns about California's leadership direction, particularly in addressing pressing issues like homelessness and crime. Emphasizing the necessity for robust law enforcement and a reevaluation of priorities to serve communities better, Gates advocates for stronger adherence to existing laws. Reflecting on his tenure since 2014, he outlines the pivotal divisions within his office—civil litigation, community prosecution, and research and advisory—underscoring the significance of local control for fostering accountability and democracy. Despite the challenges, Gates remains optimistic about California's future.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar meets with former California State Senator John Moorlach, in our L.A. studio. John served from 1995 to 2021 as the Orange County Treasurer, County Supervisor and State Senator. John rose to prominence in 1994, when he noticed the county's financial problems and tried to warn officials but was largely ignored until later that year Orange County, CA declared bankruptcy.  At that time, the largest municipality to fail in U.S. history.   John was an accountant for 19 years prior to his 25 years of public service and discusses his ongoing efforts to improve financial management in California. John closed on his thoughts for the future of California and the need for a more balanced approach to budgeting and spending. Los Angeles Times article by George Skelton can be found here. John Moorlach's latest articles for California Policy Center can be found here.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar had the opportunity to sit down with Chip Fulghum, CEO of Endeavors and former Deputy Under Secretary of Management and Chief Financial Officer at the Department of Homeland Security at the Ameritocracy L.A. studio.  Following his 28-year U.S. Air Force career, including 3 Pentagon tours, Chip retired as Colonel before transitioning into leadership roles within DHS.  Troy and Chip's conversation centered on their shared experiences in the DHS CFO role, emphasizing the significance of the DHS Under Secretary of Management position and the challenges associated with filling Senate-confirmed roles in the government. With many vacancies in crucial roles, they contemplated whether the 13 federal department CFO roles should remain as Senate-confirmed positions? In this episode, Chip shared his servant leadership philosophy and the importance of prioritizing the needs of those you lead.  Additionally, he talked about his work as the CEO of Endeavors, highlighting the nonprofit's mission for aiding communities in crisis and their veteran programs and partnership with the Cohen Veterans Network. A great follow-up episode is E43: U.S. Customs & Border Protection CFO Jeff Caine on Trust, Relationships, and Communication. Jeff, with 37 years of federal service, offers valuable insight into the benefits of having a political CFO at the Department level. He also urges young individuals to consider a career in government, highlighting the opportunity to effect change and the stability and perks that federal service offers.     Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar took the show on the road to Huntsville, Alabama, and met with Becky Hurt, Vice President of Administration for YKTA, a $1.6 billion joint venture of Toyota and Mazda. Troy and Becky first met in 2016 during Toyota's consolidation of their North America manufacturing and sales headquarters. During their discussion, Becky shares insights into her career and explained that not all moves were exactly what she wanted.  At times, she said yes to career opportunities for fear of saying “no” may stop her career progression. They also discuss industry issues within the automotive space such as Supply Chain dynamics, plant capacity management, and sustainability practices. This is a great episode of navigating change while prioritizing authenticity. A great follow-up episode is E38: Toyota IT Executive Jason Ballard on Improving the Employee Experience, AI, and Leadership. Jason shared his insights that highlight the importance of staying connected, thinking like a CEO, and embracing new technologies in the automotive industry.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

Welcome to our monthly series where we dive into challenging topics, current events, explore faith, and much more. Expect fresh insights from familiar faces and new voices as we engage in candid discussions. Join us for open and honest fellowship, embracing diverse perspectives. Featured guest: Rev. Barry Richards is a dear friend and mentor. He currently serves the Pentecostal City Mission Church in Los Angeles, California.  Topics explored in this episode:  * Time management * The concept of time in the Bible * Living in a state of readiness for leadership opportunities * Servant leadership * Maintaining strong relationships   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar meets with Stephanie Hoaglin, U.S. Army, Director of Organic Industrial Base (OIB) Modernization in Huntsville, Alabama. She discusses her career path and the importance of modernizing the Army and the challenges of securing funding for the $16 billion, 15-year Modernization Plan. The Organic Industrial Base, or known within the Defense Community as the OIB, consists of 23 arsenals, depots, and ammunition plants that provide essential maintenance and repair capabilities for the Army's equipment and systems. Stephanie started her career in one of those arsenals as a physical scientist at the Army's Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center (JMTC), in Rock Island, Illinois.  She then advanced to the Joint Munitions Command (JMC) and then eventually to her current role within the Army Materiel Command in Huntsville.   Stephanie has had great mentors and shares how these Army leaders have helped guide and inspire her through her incredible career. This is a great episode for anyone who may also be considering serving our country in the military or as a civilian.     Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar meets with Sony Pictures Entertainment, Vice President of Global Still Photography, Chrissy Quesada at the Ameritocracy L.A. studio. Chrissy's journey in the movie industry began over 30 years ago at Carolco Pictures, where she supported the release of Terminator 2. Troy and Chrissy reminisced about the early days, including her time at 20th Century Fox prior to Disney's $72B acquisition. In this episode, Chrissy provides an overview of her organization's role in movie production, promotion, and premieres. She explains the process of becoming an Academy member and Troy shares his unbelievable experience attending the 2001 Academy Awards. Lastly, they talk about the current state of the movie business including streaming, the resurrection of the theatrical release of movies, and the impact of AI, digital photography, and technology on her industry. Empire Magazine's Ghostbusters cover can be found here.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, Troy met with Executive Coach and Author, Les Whitney in the Ameritocracy L.A. studio. Les has had an incredible career as an entrepreneur and business leader and spent the last 20 years as a Vistage Master Chair, coaching CEOs on leadership, design thinking, achieving results, and sustainable growth.  In 2019, Les was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung and brain cancer and was provided with a 5% chance of survival over the next 5 years.  At that critical inflection point, Les turned his passion into writing the hit book called, “Cancer's Gifts, A Loving Journey Toward the Final Chapter.”  In his book, he emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and open communication in dealing with cancer and other challenges. In this interview, he shares his philosophy of living in the present moment and not fearing the future or dwelling on the past. He hopes to reach a million people with his message and has received positive feedback from readers who have found hope and inspiration in his book. Stay updated on Les's travel adventures and medical journey as documented on his blog. More information on Mohammad Khan can be found here. Two great follow-up episodes are E9: D.C. Executive Coach Anne Collier on Empowering Others to Succeed. In this episode, Anne shares insights into her coaching approach and the tools she uses to support individuals in their professional development by unlocking their full potential to achieve their goals. In E31: Dante Valve CEO Lisa Dante Papini on Promoting the U.S. Navy Defense Industrial Base, Lisa discusses the crucial role of the U.S. defense industry in safeguarding national security and highlighting the resilience needed in navigating personal and professional challenges. Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar meets with Jeff Caine, the Chief Financial Officer of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), at the Prospect House in Washington, D.C.  CBP is the nation's largest law enforcement agency, overseeing border security, customs, immigration enforcement, and trade facilitation. Jeff manages a $19.5B budget that employs a workforce of over 65,000.  Troy and Jeff have an interesting discussion on the differences between political and career CFO roles in federal agencies. Amidst talks recently in Washington, D.C. about decreasing the number of presidential appointments due to Senate confirmation challenges, the focus has shifted to evaluate roles including the 16 Department level CFOs.  Positions mandated by legislation to require Senate confirmation. This requirement often leaves many Federal departments without a CFO for extended periods. With 37 years of federal service, Jeff provides great insight into this issue and his view of the benefits of the political CFO at the Department level. Lastly, Jeff also encourages young people to consider a career in government emphasizing the ability to make a difference and the stability and benefits that federal service provides. Two great follow-up episodes that deep dive into the role of Federal CFO are Ameritocracy E33: U.S. Secret Service CFO Stephen Roncone on Finance in Law Enforcement and E23: Former TSA CFO Pat Rose on Federal Funding and Technology Modernization.   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar meets with Entrepreneur and Creator, Donna Kasseinova at the L.A. studio.  Donna discusses her journey as an immigrant from Russia to the United States and her passion for music.  Before arriving in the US, she had graduated as a classical pianist from the prestigious Gnessin Music Academy in Moscow.  She drifted away from music and prioritized her focus on hard work, networking, and building her business skills.  She also maintained her connections back in the fallen Soviet Union and eventually set up a very successful business that matched the new Eastern Europe demand with products and services available in the U.S. As her business grew, she realized the need for business education and went back to school and earned her MBA from the USC Marshall School of Business.  Donna eventually began to give back to her community and reignited her passion for music.  She founded the Southern California-based Palos Verdes Music Salon. Alongside musical director Evgeny Tonkha, she brings together some of the nation's best musicians for intimate performances in exquisite private homes, carefully pairing patrons with artists for a unique musical experience. In this episode we listen to Donna's personal experiences and insights, highlighting the importance of self-reflection, support for artists, and pursuing one's passions.  She provided her thoughts of the American Dream and emphasized the importance of looking inward and taking responsibility for one's own success and encouraged individuals to pursue their passions and become professionals in their chosen fields. A great follow-up episode is Ameritocracy E4: World Renowned Artist Olga Krimon, Preparing for a Successful Career Transition. In this episode, Olga shares her journey of transitioning from a thriving corporate career to becoming an award-winning artist, showcasing the power of embracing calculated risks and investing in oneself.    Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar had the honor of meeting with U.S. Ambassador Gaddi Vasquez, the former Director of the Peace Corps at the Ameritocracy L.A. studio.  Gaddi reflects on his journey and offers a message of hope and resilience. He emphasizes the opportunities available and the importance of giving back. He expresses his pride in being an American and his dedication to creating possibilities for others. He also discussed his involvement in education and local government as ways to make a positive impact. Gaddi acknowledges that challenges and hardships exist, but he believes that Americans have the ability to overcome them. He reminds us of “The importance of celebrating the fact that the U.S. is a great nation where people can dream big and achieve great things.”    Links: The Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum    Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar is joined by the L.A. Times 2023 Inspirational Women nominee, Lina Lumme. Lina is the CEO of The Youth Center, an award-winning non-profit that has transformed the lives of thousands of children through their collaborative social, educational, and recreational programs.  Lina candidly talks about her 2003 journey to immigrate to the United States from Russia, when she arrived 8 months pregnant, homeless, with only $100.00 in her pocket.  She shares her touching testimony of being connected at that time of desperation with the Precious Life Shelter, a Southern California-based non-profit that provides residential and supportive services for homeless pregnant women. Through their support and her determination and hard work she forged a path from being homeless to eventually becoming the CEO of the Youth Center, based in Los Alamitos, California. Lina discusses the mission and programs of the Youth Center, her leadership philosophy, and how mentors play an important role and truly can impact someone's life.  She explains that through merit, achievement, and success her organization builds donor confidence which provides the track record and credibility to raise money to maintain and advance the mission.    At the end, Troy asks Lina if she believes that today's youth are prepared and can still achieve the American Dream. Her answer is informed and insightful and provides an important data point as we all strive to create the conditions for success for our youth.  Please consider participating in the Youth Center's One Grand Project. Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week I had the opportunity to attend the largest music trade show in the world the National Association of Music Merchants, also known as the NAMM Show in Anaheim, California. As a guitar enthusiast, I was excited to interview J.D. Lewis, the founder and lead designer of Warrior Guitars and his sons Dran and Gabe.   The Lewis family has been showcasing their craft at the NAMM Show for over 30 extraordinary years. J.D. talks about the history of his company, the importance of staying true to oneself, and how the value of family is at the forefront of Warrior Guitar designs.   He also shares his views on the music industry and the importance of quality and sincerity. Dran and Gabe discussed their involvement in the company's growth and reputation, their intention of staying true to their niche market and constantly evolving to meet customer demands has me excited for the next 30 years of Warrior Guitars.   I hope you enjoy! - Troy   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar traveled to Toyota's North American headquarters to meet with IT Executive and General Manager Jason Ballard to talk about his background and experience at the company. Troy and Jason started working together in 2014, when Toyota began consolidating their North American sales and manufacturing operations. They discuss the move of Toyota's headquarters to Plano, Texas, the role of technology in the company's operations, and the importance of leadership and continuous improvement. Troy and Jason also touch on the return to office policies and the impact of remote work on collaboration and creativity.  Jason emphasizes the need for authentic leadership, building relationships, and being bold in driving change. He also mentions the use of artificial intelligence and conversational AI in improving employee experiences and productivity. Lastly, Jason shared his insights that highlight the importance of staying connected, thinking like a CEO, and embracing new technologies in the automotive industry. Recommended reading: CEO Excellence by Carolyn Dewar, Scott Keller, Vikram Malhotra Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Joseph Raffiee, Professor of Strategy at the University of Southern California, Marshall School of Business. Troy and Joe have worked together at USC on the Veteran MBA program that is specifically designed to assist military veterans in seeking new business careers.   Joe discusses the meritocracy process to become a tenured professor and his balanced focus on research, teaching, and service.  Joe has been recognized as one of the “Top 50 Undergraduate Professors” nationally and his research has been published in prestigious education journals and publications including the Harvard Business Review, Huffington Post, and Wired Magazine.  In addition to discussing his research on employee mobility and entrepreneurship, Joe shares his perspective on the “Return to Office” policies and possible effects on companies, workers, the market, and the economy. Lastly, Joe provides a glimpse into his ongoing research that involves exploring the impact of partisan differences on innovation. Check out the video version of this episode, now on Youtube. Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week host Troy Edgar interviews Major League Baseball scouts Brad and Taylor Cameron. Together, they brought two different perspectives to the topic of identifying and developing talent in Major League Baseball. Brad has been a professional baseball scout for 33 years. He started with the Cleveland Indians in 1990 and has been with the San Francisco Giants for the last 18 years. With the Giants, he has earned three World Series rings for their victories in 2010, 2012, and 2014. Brad was kind enough to bring those to the interview and we got a great picture for the show. Taylor was originally drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates. After being a player, he started his career in 2012 as a Southern California area scout with the Minnesota Twins. He then worked for the Seattle Mariners before joining the Texas Rangers in 2021. Last year in 2023 the Rangers won the World Series. Now, Taylor will join his dad in receiving his first World Series rings when the season opens.   Finding talent in sports, business or any organization is always one of the hardest and most important things to do as a leader to be successful. In this podcast episode, we explore the similarities of corporate recruiting to the scouting process, the importance of evaluating player makeup and character, and the role of technology in scouting.  And yes, with Taylor in the room representing the Texas Rangers, Troy had to ask the question many Los Angeles Dodgers fans are wondering. What is the possibility of Clayton Kershaw joining the Texas Rangers when he returns from surgery as a free agent? You're going to have to listen to hear his response! Check out the video version of this episode, now on YouTube. Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, host Troy Edgar travels to Las Vegas to meet with Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson. Steve was previously a Las Vegas City Council member and has been practicing law there for over 40 years.  He has served as the District Attorney since 2012. His office handles over 75,000 cases a year and has recently been in the media spotlight with high-profile cases such as the arrest of Duane "Keefe D" Davis in the Tupac Shakur murder, the UNLV shooting, and the death of teen Jonathan Lewis, whose murder was captured on video by a mob of high school students. In our professional lives, we often face critical situations that demand immediate responses, challenging our crisis management skills. This episode explores Steve's perspective and approach to crisis management.  We discuss how his prosecution and criminal defense law expertise enables a quick understanding and framing of complex issues when he is on the clock to provide a timely response to the community and media. If you're interested in more discussions about crisis management and communication under pressure, you may want to listen to a previous Ameritocracy interview: E19: U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Michael Day on Leadership and Career-Defining Moments in our episode library. Check out the video version of this episode, now on YouTube. Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

In this week's podcast episode, Troy Edgar meets in Washington D.C. with his colleague and mentor Dan Chenok, Executive Director for IBM's Center for the Business of Government. This was an important show for the podcast as Dan provides a great overview of “What is Meritocracy.”  Dan also talks about his recently released book “Transforming the Business of Government: Insights on Resiliency, Innovation, and Performance.” This book has been getting a lot of attention because of its focus on providing government leaders with practical and actionable insights on how best to manage and lead through uncertain and disruptive periods. Dan also shares an interesting fact of his relationship to Ron Chernow, the author of “Alexander Hamilton.” As frequent collaborators at the IBM Center and the Partnership for Public Service, Troy and Dan discuss the important role that think tank organizations play in the ecosystem of Washington, D.C.  Lastly, they talked about their ideas for improving the effectiveness of the federal government, performance tracking, and the important role of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to measure performance and assist the President in meeting policy, budget, management, and regulatory/statutory responsibilities. Recommended Reading: “Alexander Hamilton” by Ron Chernow Recommended Reading: “Transforming the Business of Government: Insights on Resiliency, Innovation, and Performance” by Dan Chenok and Michael J. Keegan Recommended Reading: “The Rise of Meritocracy” by Michael Young   Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

This week, Troy Edgar sits down with U.S. Secret Service Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Stephen Roncone in Washington, D.C.  Steve, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran, assumed his current role in April 2023 overseeing a $2.8 billion budget supporting a workforce of over 7,000 special agents, officers, and other personnel. In this episode, he discusses the history of the U.S. Secret Service as well as the role of finance in law enforcement, his military-to-civilian career transition, and insights on AI and data analytics in the Federal Government. Steve concludes our conversation with valuable career advice: "Volunteer for assignments nobody wants. Establish opportunities and challenge yourself to take on those opportunities. In the end, you're going to learn a great deal about yourself and what you are truly capable of." If you're interested in more discussions about finance and leadership in government organizations, you may want to check out episode E23: Former TSA CFO Pat Rose on Federal Funding and Technology Modernization. Ameritocracy™ is produced by Prospect House Media and recorded in studio locations in Los Angeles and Washington D.C.

In this week's episode, join host Troy Edgar as he talks with Brett Barbre, President of Yorba Linda Water District. California, the fourth-largest economy globally relies heavily on water for various sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, energy, and tourism. With over 30 years of experience, Brett has served on the boards of the Municipal Water District of Orange County and the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. He is considered an expert on water importations from northern California via the State Water Project and from the Colorado River via the Colorado River Aqueduct. This system supplies water to approximately 20 million residents - the largest population served by any water district worldwide.  Brett shares insights on water policy and the state of California's water infrastructure along with the intersection of politics and public service.  Episode Links: Colossus: The Turbulent, Thrilling Saga of the Building of Hoover Dam by Michael Hiltzik Richard Nixon Library