The Great Reset

There were so many Zoom calls and so many online performances that meant so much for connection and our human experience during the heaviest portions of the lockdowns...what happened to those connections? Why haven‘t we kept that going? Were we in such a hurry to return to ‘Normal‘ that we forgot how wonderful and beautiful those moments were? Why didn‘t mark the importance and continue those connections? That and more on The Great Reset Podcast - LIVE FROM THE TREEHOUSE. Email us: thegreatresetmovement@gmail.com Have someone we need to talk to? Have a great topic idea? Want to support us and other great organizations? Visit our website: thegreatresetmovement.com

Kids are back in school. Delta spreads. Some states won‘t require masks at school and punish school districts that do. COVID strikes close to home for us and how do we handle this latest surge and future variants? On the 20 year anniversary of 9/11 - what have we learned? Email us: thegreatresetmovement@gmail.com Have someone we need to talk to? Have a great topic idea? Want to support us and other great organizations? Visit our website: thegreatresetmovement.com  

The CDC recommends masks again to combat the spread of the Delta Variant that is wreaking havoc among the unvaccinated and in small percentages those who have been vaccinated. Climate changes are causing extreme weather occurrences much earlier than conservative models have been predicting. Sperm counts worldwide are down 40% which has lowered the birthrate for humanity. A whole lot to talk about as the world spins on and Covid still abides.    Email us: thegreatresetmovement@gmail.com Have someone we need to talk to? Have a great topic idea? Want to support us and other great organizations? Visit our website: thegreatresetmovement.com  

We explore the max exodus of employees, the rising rates of wages, and what that might mean going forward. We also look at the origins of COVID-19 and how answers still aren't clear about where this virus came from.  The Delta Variant is here and more contagious and is spreading rapidly among the unvaccinated and there are tales of people getting the virus even after being vaccinated. Should people require a vaccine passport? Why is this vaccine treated differently than all of the other vaccines we have had? A lot to unpack, and a lot to discuss. Email us: thegreatresetmovement@gmail.com Have someone we need to talk to? Have a great topic idea? Want to support us and other great organizations? Visit our website: thegreatresetmovement.com  

Time passes. Covid recedes into an annoyance. Politics ignores lessons learned and plods on. Semi conductor and microchip shortages cause mass delays on almost everything electronic. The first world marches on - the third world still has a pandemic enveloping them. We have been busy - but glad to be back on the mic. The mission lives on if life is back to less time to focus on talking about it. We return to our original recording locale - LIVE from the Treehouse.   Email us: thegreatresetmovement@gmail.com Have someone we need to talk to? Have a great topic idea? Want to support us and other great organizations? Visit our website: thegreatresetmovement.com

Vaccines bring relief, but where does 'Herd Immunity' lie along the vaccine hesitant? What about vaccine envy and guilt? The largest government spending since FDR and what does that mean? COVID feels like its on the way out - but it ain't done with us or the planet. India's catastrophe demonstrates the volatility of this virus that hasn't just gone away as 50% of Americans have been vaccinated. What do we say to economic disparity and rich old white men who still control everything? Will the fundamental changes happen or will we rush back to old habits as quick as we abandoned them?   Email us: thegreatresetmovement@gmail.com Have someone we need to talk to? Have a great topic idea? Want to support us and other great organizations? Visit our website: thegreatresetmovement.com

We have a lively conversation with the leader of Vinos and Vulvas, Heather Reich Edwards, which are panel discussions that pre-COVID took place at bars and breweries and attracted people from all genders and sexual orientations from ages 30-70.. She/her has been a pelvic physical therapist for 17 years and is an AASECT certified Sexuality Counselor as well as a Sex Educator. Heather founded Vino & Vulvas--An Edgy, Inclusive, Informative Sex Talk, and she also creates crotch coloring books for the “Crotch Enthusiast.”   We also cover the Me Too movement, cancel culture and the idea of retribution and redemption for for those who are accused or admit guilt. With the internet being judge, jury and executioner, is there a way to have forgiveness and an allowance for healing and change?  During COVID, Vino and Vulvas has morphed into Bubbles & Bubbly that take place over Zoom from the bathtub. The next Zoom is taking place Saturday. May 1. 8:30pm EST at www.bubblesandbubbly.com. This session will focus on: “If you are someone who plays with power or WANTS to play with power with intimacy... don't miss this one. We're talking about power. We're talking about domination and how it can be used both in person, and also from a distance so that you can use this erotic charge to infuse all of your intimate relationship where long-distance, or skin-to-skin. There were certainly be an interactive portion of this event, because honestly, I can't see anyway around that. These panelists I've got for this one... they know their shit. @felynefitness @luciefielding @feralfemme @heatheredwardscreations.”   Email us: thegreatresetmovement@gmail.com Have someone we need to talk to? Have a great topic idea? Want to support us and other great organizations? Visit our website: thegreatresetmovement.com    

We talk with Brian Crowley, a long-time friend of Shawndra who shares a love of epic convos. He is a chemical engineer by day and musician with his band, Global Ghost, which derives its name in part from his life living all over the world as an Irish ex-pat who has now been in Savannah, Georgia for more than a decade. We cover a range of topics including eschatology, which studies human concern with death, judgment, and the final destiny of the soul and of humankind, minimum wage versus universal basic income, and the industrial war complex and how our military budget could be shifted to actually protecting Americans through programs that protect and benefit us all. Great conversation with a great thinker, plus, yay for being vaccinated through the "waste list!"   Hear one of Brian's New Songs "Anywhere, USA" at the end of the episode.   CLICK HERE: Global Ghost on Spotify      

Where have we been? We took a break and explain why and kick off Season 2. We look back over our experiences as humans over the last year and how the podcast developed. We also examine whats happening now as the vaccine begins to pervade and things open up more fully. We have had our first dose of the vaccine and already feel better - will it really 'fix' the situation and can we all be hopeful? Will a return to so called 'normalcy' have a bigger impact on the environment? We get back to our roots and look forward as we start Season 2 of the podcast.

We speak with Bryan Schaaf, Chef Liaison and "unofficial" Master Taster at Certified Angus Beef® for more than 10 years. Bryan is also the co-host of the Meat Speak podcast with Meat Scientist Diana Clark and Chef Tony Biggs, Certified Angus Beef ® brand director of culinary arts, and the trio have "carnivorous conversations, food trends, cooking advice from influential chefs, a bit of science, and a few facts about your favorite cuts of beef." Pre-COVID, Bryan traveled the world eating at renowned restaurants, attending food and drink festivals (including the prestigious James Beard awards), and pretty much living the meat dream. Bryan and Shawndra also were also buddies during their years at Ashland University in northern Ohio, where Bryan played college soccer and Shawndra played college volleyball.  One of our longest episodes yet, we cover all things meat and dive into the effects of COVID on his industry all the way back to the farms where it all begins. A lively, funny conversation.  Bryan also shares how we all can support our favorite restaurants with the help of Certified Angus Beef ®: "Restaurants need our help now more than ever. Join the #RestaurantChallenge and dine in or carry out to support your favorite restaurants. Post about your meal and tag the restaurant, and you can win cash to dine out AND have your favorite restaurants selected to receive cash for their staff each week. Learn more at Challenge.CertifiedAngusBeef.com Certified Angus Beef ® brand."    Have someone we need to talk to? Have a great topic idea? Want to support us and other great organizations? Visit our website: thegreatresetmovement.com

Episode 88 with Jaz Adams, the Director of Strategy at Wayward Kind, a San Diego based "digital marketing agency built on the belief people buy from people, not brands. We help clients cultivate better digital conversations. We work with challenger brands who are making a significant impact in race, class, and gender equity. Our work is rooted in creating positive social change and we partner with companies and organizations that are aligned with our purpose."   Jaz has a Certificate of Mastery in Digital Behavior Change, and our conversation ranged from how her company chooses to align with based on values and company culture, and how the events of last year have affected how companies have to present themselves in a time of social activism. We discuss the immeasurable power of social media and how it influences our lives not only online but how we interact in real life. We also look at the changes in digital marketing that began with pull and has gone back to push marketing and why that needs to change and be focused on building communities and conversations instead.  Email us: thegreatresetmovement@gmail.com Have someone we need to talk to? Have a great topic idea? Want to support us and other great organizations? Visit our website: thegreatresetmovement.com     

So yes - there's a horizon of relief, but there are holdovers from the COVID 11 month struggle. We dig into the cultural more than anything and the mental health burden of this time period. What else have we all noticed? What else will surprise us as a result of the seclusion and lack of group-connect? It's It's the small things - culturally - that will last longer and inexpilcably. All that and more...RECORDED LIVE FROM THE RESET WOLF DEN   Email us: thegreatresetmovement@gmail.com Have someone we need to talk to? Have a great topic idea? Want to support us and other great organizations? Visit our website: thegreatresetmovement.com 

We speak with Jodi Hardwick, Clinical Social Worker With The Department of Veteran's Affairs in Augusta, Maine. Jodi shares her experience first in receiving the Vaccine and how that has effected her - as well as the access to vaccines for our aging veterans. Jodi specializes in gerontology which is the study of old age, the process of aging and the particular problems of older human beings. If any of us had had a harder road through the pandemic - it would be the elderly. She describes how she was pushing for TeleHealth visits before COVID-19 had us doing those as a rule. She describes the experiences of veterans through all of this and the hopeful nature of vaccine distribution. Jodi describes her work as a social worker as a 'problem agent' someone who sees an issue and wants to find a way to solve the problems associated with that issue. We zoom out and even think philosophically and sociologically about what COVID has shown and taught us and how we can all grow. Great Conversation as we move further into 2021. ***DISCLAMER*** Jody's views and thoughts are hers as a private citizen and do not reflect the views of the United States Office of Veterans Affairs.

Wow - what a difference an inauguration makes. DC could become a state. Tommy is still bemused by the charisma of Donald Trump. The vaccine roll out is slower than needed.  Kmele Foster appears on Bill Maher and presents a different way of looking at things - controversial as that may be. We have been reading and researching him since and it has been intriguing and his intellectual approach to race and the problems behind what we actually need to solve are enlightening.  We once again dig into Universal Basic income and it's benefits. What could be improved for humanity through that? We also hit on the romanticization of the American Revolution and its distortion in the Qanon and 'Patriot' folks who were driven to storm the Capitol on January 6th. That and much more as we move further into 2021. Email us: thegreatresetmovement@gmail.com Have someone we need to talk to? Have a great topic idea? Want to support us and other great organizations? Visit our website: thegreatresetmovement.com    RECORDED LIVE FROM THE GREAT RESET WOLF DEN

***There was a previous version of this interview that had the last 35 minutes cut off. It was a great conversation and we'd love for you to hear all of it. If you have already listened - start at the 53 minute mark to hear the end. We speak with Jay Melancon and Jordan Carlson who are Master Hair Stylists and founders of the amazing organization called Humble Hairdressers. The mission of Humble Hairdressers is to shift perceptions one cut at a time. They began reaching out to the larger community in Asheville to deliver style to everyone, power to the people - especially those who needed to see themselves differently and to be seen differently. They have events associated with Haywood Street Congregation which reaches out to the homeless and those less fortunate. They also do work with foster children who may need a hair cut to feel good about themselves, and they also work with domestic abuse survivors. Beyond the great work they do they also started a podcast to continue this mission and to highlight what has been going on in the hair industry during Covid and beyond. As often happens, we drift to the philosophical and what these intelligent gentlemen have noticed about the COVID era and what we can all change and learn through this time period. A great and at many times lighthearted conversation as we enter a new political era it felt good to have an uplifting post inauguration discussion. 

We discuss new information that has come to light from the Capitol insurrection last week. Why were some of these 'protestors' given a tour of the capitol the day before by sitting members of congress? There was a Social Media glow from all of this that did not highlight the the more violent notions of the attack on the seat of democracy. Should those who pushed for the doubting of the election be held accountable? With five days until the inauguration, what chaos can be stirred up by the 45th president, as he drifts beyond the point of his presidency? Madison Cawthorn represents our home region of Western North Carolina - but also sells 'Cry More Lib' T-shirts on his website, and was armed in the Capitol on the day of the insurrection. We discuss how the vaccine has rolled out slower than expected and some states are encouraging "vaccination-tourism" to help their economy while at the same time denying access to their residents. We also talk about how poorer countries, who were a part of the vaccine research and studies, have received no vaccine doses. 2021 is off to a blistering start, and there's a lot to unpack.   RECORDED LIVE FROM THE RESET WOLF DEN

As horrible and dire events unfold in our nation's capitol as pro-Trump supporters storm the halls of Congress with vandalism and looting, we ask the question, "What country is this?" How could we possibly get to this point? We break down the timeline and hear calls for the 25th Amendment from both sides of the aisle. How complicit is the president in all of this? Why are 'patriots' and conspiracy theorists claiming Antifa is behind this? Who is the antlered and shirtless Qanon Shaman and what presents did he leave for the representatives and senators? Congress continues its business and Joe Biden is President. But this isn't over. So much healing and calming the division to come that won't go away January 21st.  RECORDED LIVE during the Congressional counting of the electoral votes.

Happy New Year! NEW THEME SONG!!! Thought we would change it up for the New Year. Waddya Think? We speak with Bill Gilliland an award winning presenter, entrepreneur and ActionCOACH business coach. We also speak with Beth Lemmel who works with Bill as an ActionCOACH entrepreneurial talent scout. We discuss the tough times for small businesses during Covid-19 and how many have had to pivot and adapt and how there is opportunity available - even now.  We discuss economic cycles and how this one may be different as we rebuild post-pandemic. How do businesses make things more personal and how do businesses adapt to their local commnity to be strong now and stronger beyond Covid-19? We also discuss the entrepreneurial spirit and how we could use schools to encourage that for kids in high school to push them to be more creative and unlock the potential of young entrepreneurs. We also speak to how we have a responsibility to support those local businesses we love to keep them going and what that means for our whole community. Bill offers some free business coaching during these trouble times for any of you listeners who may be interested. Find out more at his website: ActionCOACH 

We look back over 2020 and all of the incredible, bizarre, crazy, sad, horrible, and hopefully transcendent and transformational events that fell upon us this year. What did we learn? What are the changes we didn't like and the changes we did and the changes that still aren't in our periphery?   We speak on the reason we started this podcast and how that mission hasn't changed, but has organically developed into something we didn't draw up. Its delightful to see that happen - mostly by who we have spoken to - and their perspectives on this pandemic. A pivotal moment in human history and we are living through it. let's reflect on that. Goodbye 2020 - for good and ill. Hello the future where we will all live. Thanks to Shawndra's mom and political activist Sherry Thompson for joining us on this episode to close 2020.

We speak with Jonathan Swinger a physician's assistant specializing in orthopedic surgery with Southeastern Sports Medicine. He talks about his experience being on the front lines of Covid-19 and the fear and anxiety that goes into it. We discuss the cases of the virus rising and what he sees happening at the hospital. He also discusses the shortage of PPE and what that was like and how that shortage could begin happening again. He describes what it's like to enter an operating room with someone who is known to have Covid-19 and how he and other medical staff all have to face that on numerous occasions. Jonathan also received his first dose of the Pfizer vaccine and using his Master's of Science degree he explains mRNA vaccines and how they work. The vaccine offers hope on the horizon but he reiterates that we still have to follow the guidelines to continue to prevent the spread of the virus. It comes down to being selfish or caring for other people. Wear your mask, socially distance and wash your hands. Those things we will have to continue to do for some time until we are past this. Great to speak to someone on the front lines of Covid-19.    

We speak with Kara Irani, Director of Marketing and Communications for Manna Food Bank. Manna Food Bank is a non-profit organization serving Western North Carolina since 1983 and an accredited member of Feeding America, the nation's largest domestic hunger relief organization. Their main goal is to end hunger in WNC. Kara talks about the growing need in our region for Manna's services as the economic upheavals from Covid-19 have left many more people in dire straits. The sheer numbers she is seeing compared to this time last year is astronomical. We hear how Manna and other organizations like it are working at the Federal level to change SNAP regulations and combat the root causes of poverty and hunger. We urge any of you who can to donate or volunteer for Manna or any other food bank or food pantry in your area this holiday season. We also urge you to write, call and push your representatives to do more about the root causes and help with the problems facing all of us as the economic fall out of Covid-19 continues. There are people who used to donate to and volunteer at Manna who are now asking for help. It could happen to any of us.   

We discuss the vaccine's arrival and the hope it brings. Even in our small city medical professionals have already received their first dose of the the vaccine. Covid cases are higher than they have been during the entire duration. Despite the vaccine's hope - things are still dire. We examine the government passing a defense bill for 740 billion while so many people and businesses are suffering. Why is the defense budget so high? We examine poverty in America and the misunderstanding of that and the standards that have been laid out are unfair and do not help those in need. RECORDED LIVE FROM THE RESET WOLF DEN HEAR THE NEW SONG WE WROTE DURING OUR CREATIVE RETREAT AT THE END OF THE EPISODE It's called 'The Real Welfare Queens' and it's available on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-548969419/boostraps-final-mix-1

We recorded this on Shawndra's birthday and had the opportunity to speak with her best friend Angie Breakfield. Angie is an Orthodontic Treatment Floor Supervisor and also a Covid-19 survivor. She recently contracted the virus in Southern Ohio where she lives. She speaks about her symptoms and her experience through all of that as well as the lack of mask wearing and people not observing of all the safety precautions for Covid-19 in her area. As the virus spreads through rural areas especially in the Mid West - and the daily number of cases continues to rise - we are a long way from being done with the virus, even with the vaccine on the horizon. Angie speaks about her experience with her children and wife through all of this and how so many milestones, like birthdays just aren't the same during a pandemic. Great to have Angie on and celebrate Shawndra's birthday.  

We speak with Kelly Denson, entrepreneur, event planner-turned-realtor, and volunteer for the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine trials. We discuss Kelly's transition from large events like Asheville's beloved Wing Wars and Burger Wars to a whole new career amidst coronavirus. We then dig into how Kelly decided to take a risk and join the COVID-19 vaccine trials with her best friend and her partner. The three of them participated in the Spartanburg, South Carolina Moderna vaccine trials, and she shares her experience from making the decision to participate and every step along the way to now testing positive for the antibodies two months in a row. We also talk about people's resistance to vaccines, and how we all have to be ready to be uncomfortable for a day or so in order to be free from this virus and allowed to go back to all the things that we love to do with others. There is hope in this conversation as we are reminded that we are on the last lap to getting passed this life-changing pandemic, and we celebrate people like Kelly who are helping to prevent needless death with the advent of the vaccines. The importance of groundbreaking medical research that has led to these vaccines extends beyond just COVID-19 as some of this medical research will help lead to cures for other diseases that aren't so novel.  Keep masking up and staying socially distanced--we are nearing the finish line in part thanks to people like Kelly!  

We discuss how this Thanksgiving felt odd and disconnected due to the Pandemic. How much so many of us want to spend time in close proximity to our friends and family and know we can't. Yet, there are some of us who will do it anyway. We dig deep on the opposition to regulations, mandates and restrictions that have been brought on by Covid-19. We see the easy jump from actual exploitation to opportunism that did occur by the big corporations during the shut downs. We also look at the post election climate and what is stirring in the gut of America. All that and more...  RECORDED LIVE FROM THE RESET WOLF DEN

We speak with Nex Millen - Hip Hop Scholar, Culture Keeper, MC, Activist, Educator, DJ, Producer and more. Nex brings a unique perspective from his childhood and formative years growing up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. We discuss the racial issues effecting our nation right now and what boots on the ground have to say about that. We talk about his work with the One Mic Studio (in collaboration with LEAF Global Arts) and his outlet as an educator teaching kids about hip-hop culture and how to enrich their lives. We discuss the way Covid has brought us back to the place of focusing on what is most important and how it frames how we move forward. Nex was also on the movement that garnered national attention when the city of Asheville presented and considered a reparation platform to help the disenfranchised people of color in our city. We look at how the original proposal has changed and how the watering down and placating nature of the revised version of the initiative is less helpful and far less useful. The long violent and racist history of the United States is still evident in the country we live in present day and an understanding of that will help us move forward. Please support the YMI Cultural Center and any other organizations like it in your listening area to help fight systemic racism and help found a more just and verdant future.  CHECK OUT A NEW SONG FROM NEX IN COLLABORATION WITH CEE KNOWLEDGE FROM DIGABLE PLANETS AT THE END OF THE EPISODE Find Nex on Spotify: Click Here

The Republican party may have lost the Whitehouse - but made gains down ballot. The house will move into a single digit majority after losing seats in this election. What were considered absolute victories in the Senate went in other directions. The Democratic party has a post mortem discussion about its identity. Many progressives, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are calling the party out for not addressing the base more directly. For having unsubstantiated fear that they would lose moderates. There is a feeling that party leadership is out of touch and not seeing the demographic and cultural shifts that are occurring. What will the first two years of a Biden presidency look like and how will the party define themselves as they consider future elections? We also discuss Aaron Sorkin's new film The Trial of The Chicago Seven and how the issues at play in 1968 and the political upheaval of that time period are still prescient today. RECORDED LIVE FROM THE RESET WOLF DEN    

We speak with Graham Sharp - banjo player, singer and songwriter for The Steep Canyon Rangers. We talk about the struggles of a touring musician amidst COVID-19 and what Graham has done with the time he has been given. He has enjoyed being home with his family more and the creative sparks that ensued. We speak of the shift in momentum for the summer and the coming rise of COVID cases. The Rangers have put on several virtual and free drive in shows and Graham contrasts those venues to how we used to do things and the difference in the feeling of it all. We discuss how Graham and the Ranger's political stances have perhaps alienated some of their fans and how he doesn't have a problem with that.  We drift philosophical and discuss what we see as the greater issues we can all bring positive change to and the role of the artist in all of that.  Great conversation with a wonderful person. HEAR ONE OF GRAHAM'S NEW SONGS AT THE END OF THE EPISODE.

Biden Wins. Trump hasn't conceded. Record voter turnout. It wasn't a landslide and the country remains heavily divided. 70+ million people voted for Donald Trump. That's a lot of people. The Democrats lost seats in the house. There's a narrow margin in the Senate that hinges on two runoff Senate elections in Georgia. How do we move forward as a country and find ways to unite and find common ground? Is it even worth it if it's going to be a constant power swing and the feeling is, "Get what you can when you can get it and fight when you can't." We don't want to dismiss the celebration of the end of the Trump presidency - but there is a lot to think about as we move forward. RECORDED LIVE FROM THE TREEHOUSE CLICK HERE to Check out our website or contact us

We reflect on the build up to the election, Trump's fanatics and Shawndra highlights how we can help to get people to the polls today.  For more information about how you can reach out to voters visit: NC Dems Election Day.  To track your mail in or absentee ballot you can call this hotline: 833-868-3462. VOTE!!!

We speak with Kalinda Fisher, founder of The Great Reset Community Roundtable and Discussion Series.  While we do of course love the name of her organization - we also love the mission.  Kalinda started the discussion series in 2018 as a way to have conversations with people from all walks of life, beliefs, political affiliations, sexual orientations and bring the diverse perspectives to sit around a table and have a civil discussion.  It began simply at her dining room table and has now expanded worldwide with hosts holding conversations around their own tables or now 'Around the Screens' as Kalinda describes it.  In this time of great division and animosity - especially online - it is refreshing to get back to civil discourse and having these frank, sometimes difficult, but always fulfilling discussions.  As we approach election day, let's remember the importance of having conversations, even with those with whom we may disagree. We are human beings and all Americans and compromise and civil conversation can help all of us move forward.

We speak with Mike Sule Executive Director of Asheville on Bikes. Mike has been a proponent and advocate for more bike friendly infrastructure in Asheville for over 10 years.  As the pandemic has shown, more people are cycling and being outdoors to commute than ever before.  With many people not wanting to take public transit, ride sharing and simply because biking is a safe outdoor activity during COVID-19.  The completion of the River Arts District Transportation Improvement Project - the new greenway is seeing a lot of attention and bringing focus on how these infrastructure improvements have so many positives. We discuss what it takes for more cycling and pedestrian friendly infrastructure and all of the work that Mike's organization does to bring more of that to our city and to our region.  We also speak about the opportunity we've been given with the pandemic, to add more of these kind of projects to urban areas and all of the positive benefits that follow in the wake.  During Covid, Mike's organization has formed more bike clubs through schools for kids to be active and appreciate the fun and challenges of cycling through the city.  We speak about the untended opposition to more bike friendly and pedestrian friendly infrastructure and where that comes from. We also dig into the upcoming election and how voting is important to get more initiatives like this in place. Mike was also a middle school teacher for a decade and has many thoughts on how we approach education post-COVID and what improvements to our education system are possible right now. Great conversation with an Asheville stalwart.

We discuss the upcoming election, voting tallies and discrepancies, COVID cases spiking at the highest rate so far, the forced confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett and much more in this Episode LIVE from the treehouse. A new full-length show that we perform live. We will focus on current headlines and topics and other items we don't get to discuss on the other episodes. 

We speak with Michael Rayburn - founder of Rayburn Farms.  He and his wife Lauren started the farm in 2014 with a desire to explore their love of agriculture and experimentation. Rayburn Farms is known as the “farm to the brewers” of Asheville's rapidly growing craft beer scene, bringing a whole new meaning to the phrase “Plow to Pint.” Each year, the Rayburns continue to hone their skills of growing the best tasting botanicals to inspire the creation of new and innovative recipes for beers, doughnuts, teas, and ice cream. We speak about how COVID-19 has changed the farming industry and the changes he has had to make along the way.  We discuss his unique approach to farming and the specific plants and botanicals he has chosen.  But as we often do, we shift to the philosophical and Michael brings a unique perspective to the weaknesses in our systems and how the pandemic has highlighted these weaknesses and what he believes will propel us in a better way forward.  A large change he has seen is the shifting of people's temperament from complacent to activism. We can all benefit from less complacency - especially in these turbulent times. A great conversation with a very thoughtful and contemplative person. ***CORRECTION:  Michael mentions working on a farm that was owned by Warren Buffet during the interview -but he was mistaken and he is actually referring to a farm owned by Les Wexner - the Owner of  Bath and Body Works, Victoria's Secret and Pink Retail Stores. Michael wanted to be sure that we corrected that.

We reflect on a bizarre week in politics and the world in this live recording from the treehouse.   A new side-show that we perform live. We will focus on current headlines and topics and other items we don't get to discuss on the other episodes.

We have the unique opportunity to speak with Ezra Levin the Co-Founder and Co-Director of Indivisible. Along with his co-founder and spouse Leah Greenberg, Ezra has been featured as one of TIME 100's Most Influential People of 2019, included on GQ's 50 Most Powerful People in Trump's Washington, and ranked #2 on the Politico 50 list of top thinkers, doers and visionaries transforming American politics. He has appeared as a commentator on and/or been interviewed by MSNBC, CNN, NPR, Pod Save America, the New York Times, the Washington Post, Politico, TIME Magazine, the New Yorker, the Nation, Slate, and Rolling Stone, among others. He is the co-author of We Are Indivisible: A Blueprint for Democracy After Trump. Indivisible is a grassroots movement of thousands of local Indivisible groups with a mission to elect progressive leaders, rebuild our democracy, and defeat the Trump agenda. We dig deep on the SCOTUS nomination after the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg and what we can do to prevent this forced nomination right before an election. We discuss the hopeless feeling of not being able to do anything for political change given the current political climate and Ezra highlights concrete actions we can take and how Indivisible is mobilizing nationwide. We discuss the inaction of the Democratic Party and how the changes in the current Democratic party must move more progressive. We discuss some of the archaic notions of our democracy and how there needs to be a shift in the concept of the Electoral College, uneven Senate Representation and the possibility of term limits for Congress and the Supreme Court.  We also talk about third and fourth party inclusion and how that can help to break the gridlock without being given only two choices. We discuss how the opposite of a Mitch McConnell power grab is not a Democrat power grab - but that process should be democracy. Ezra reminds all of us that simply winning an election is not the end of the work we all must do.  January 22nd we all have to be active to hold our leaders accountable and move them toward policies that affect real change. Inspiring words from an inspiring organization.    

We speak with Richard Wainwright - a lifelong environmental activist who works with fern.org, an NGO dedicated to protecting forests and those who depend on them.  He is joined by his daughter Olivia Wainwright, a fifteen year old environmental activist who works with a fabulous organization called Women Deliver.  We are struck how the climate crisis has become a back burner issue due to the pandemic that has consumed the news cycle.  We wanted to get back to the most important issue affecting human beings, something we cannot forget amidst all of this.  Richard's experience during the pandemic and how it has affected his work speaks volumes - yet he is also aware of the impact of less plane travel and how speaking from our homes and moving about less has been positive environmentally if not in direct policy.  Olivia speaks for her generation and how her entire life has been tempered by climate crisis and how that uncertainty for her future fuels the way she looks at the world.  We cover the influence of politicians who don't represent the diversity of their country nor the diversity of the world continue to lead us in direction that benefits them and their ilk and leaves the rest of us behind.  A fabulous discussion with the old guard of environmental activism and the youth movement and energy that must save themselves and this planet amidst mistakes of the past.

We react to the death of a champion American, an amazing woman, an amazing human being.  Ruth Bader Ginsburg - we salute you. You will be missed. We also consider the political implications and how we travel forward with impending Supreme Court nominations and the political maelstrom to come. 'Someday, there'll be great people, great elected representatives who will say, “Enough of this nonsense. Let's be the kind of legislature the United States should have.” I hope that day will come while I'm still alive.' - Ruth Bader Ginsburg A new full-length show that we perform live. We will focus on current headlines and topics and other items we don't get to discuss on the other episodes.

We speak with Carol Rifkin - an award winning musician, singer, recording artist and veteran of many bands.  She is also a co-founder of the LEAF festival and served as assistant director for 10 years.  She is also the co-host of the "This Old Porch" radio show on WNCW 88.7 FM.  She has a wonderful organization called FBVMA a non profit dedicated to the promotion and preservation of mountain music in The French Broad River Valley.  We speak of playing music with other people during Covid-19 - how the internet has changed how we communicate via music and we hit on what kind of musical changes may come from the Covid 'Lock-Down" era. Carol has much to say about what we have in front of us as we move forward and eventually past the pandemic.  A great conversation with a Western North Carolina cultural stalwart. 

We discuss the future of politics Post Covid and Post November 2020.  We highlight what the DNC has done wrong and how it could improve.  We give more consideration to third, fourth and fifth parties may be possible and how to make them sustainable and nationally competitive.  How do we motivate the 44% of registered voters who don't vote to get involved.  Is more parties the way to make that happen or at least to shrink that percentage? We discuss the Democratic National Convention in 1944 that changed the world irrevocably as we remember the legacy of former Vice President, Henry Wallace. Andrew Yang, The People's Party, The Unity party and more all make an appearance on this episode LIVE from the Treehouse where this podcast began.   A new full-length show that we perform live. We will focus on current headlines and topics and other items we don't get to discuss on the other episodes.   

We discuss the RNC, Jacob Blake, Systemic Racism, political tribalism and so much more with political activist Sheila Johanson.   A new full-length show that we perform live. We will focus on current headlines and topics and other items we don't get to discuss on the other episodes.

We speak with Tracy Bisson - Owner and Lead Officiant for Savannah Custom Weddings and Elopements.  The wedding industry has certainly been effected by the pandemic and with so many weddings and events being postponed and rescheduled - what does the industry look like now?  Tracy has had to rethink her business and plan for the future while dealing with all of the cancelations and rescheduling from Spring weddings and as we are entering prime Fall wedding season how that looks decidedly different.  She discusses how the differing guidelines from state local and federal governments make it difficult to know how to do ceremonies and events and how the differing feelings of specific venues, staff and each couple make it difficult to have a standard way to perform weddings.  Tracy had to close her Wedding chapel this Spring and we talk about how the larger wedding companies are now doing more small weddings which is her specialty. We also speak about how the city of Savannah has been handling the Covid-19 mandates, the disagreements with Governor Kemp and the mishandling of many of the necessary steps by local leaders.  Tracy enjoys data mining and has found the most accurate Covid-19 data from MIT.  She has also examined the public records of those who received SBA and PPP loans and she has surprising information she found about who got the money first is eye opening.  A great conversation about the state of the Wedding Industry and the state of the world.

This is an episode we recorded in July as an accompaniment to the article on WNC Podcasters that Shawndra wrote for the August edition of Capital at Play magazine. We speak with Anne Fitten Glenn a writer who has written two excellent books on the local beer industry.  One called Western North Carolina Beer and one called Asheville Beer.  She is also the host of the radio show and podcast Imbibe Asheville, which we also had the opportunity to be on.   We also speak with Jeff Altman who is the host of the No B.S. Job Search Advice Podcast.  Jeff has been podcasting for many years and has an avid listenership.  Jeff Altman has helped companies hire talent and people find work. He has more than 40 years of recruiting experience assisting individuals improve their careers via his work as a career coach and executive search professional. Lastly, we speak with Laura Webb and Faith Doyle who are the hosts of the Her Two Cents podcast which has these experienced “money mavens” offering a multigenerational perspective on all  things financial.  Laura Webb is the President and founder of an Asheville, NC wealth management and investment consulting practice that has been providing support to successful individuals, particularly women, in Western North Carolina since 1995.  Faith Doyle is a Financial Advisor at an Asheville, NC wealth management and investment  consulting practice that has been serving Western North Carolina since 1995. Fun conversations with other podcasters from here in WNC.

We discuss the Democratic National Convention, Kamala Harris as the Vice Presidential Candidate, Bernie Sanders, and our local Republican candidate for the US House of Representatives Madison Cawthorn.  Lots of great discussion as the Election Season begins brimming.   A new full-length show that we performed live. We will focus on current headlines and topics and other items we don't get to discuss on the other episodes.

We speak with Sean O'Connell - a large music festival promoter and entrepreneur.  We also speak with his wife Amy Jones who works in music marketing with Music Allies and is a former radio host at 98.1 The River and WNCW 88.7.  The shutdown has certainly put a stop to large outdoor festivals and even medium to small concerts.  As music industry professionals it has certainly had an effect on this couple.  We talk about the uncertainty of the return and all of the people involved in the music industry outside of performers who have been effected by the pandemic.  We discuss this moment of reflection and how it gives us an opportunity to rethink our lives as we have known them and how we can reconnect with ourselves.  How do we prepare for the future with such uncertainty - and how do we capitalize on the time we have been given?  A great conversation with some great folks.  

We discuss our first hand experience with Covid-19. We have a series of events that lead to some friends of ours testing positive that we were exposed to at an outside party. We talk about the results and contract tracing and our own testing experience. We discuss the inefficiency of testing and how that has to improve. We also discuss the 250,000 people currently at risk at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota and much more. A new mini show that we perform live. This will be bonus material to our regular interview episodes. We will focus on current headlines and topics and other items we don't get to discuss on the other episodes.

We speak with Mike Rangel from Asheville Pizza and Brewing Company.  Mike has been a stalwart member of the Asheville community for decades and has a great perspective on navigating this pandemic as a restaurant and brewery owner.  AVL Pizza and Brewing did not open up immediately during Phase 2 - instead opting for a more careful, safe and measured approach to how they reopened.  The company has taken all of the precautions and very seriously during this entire situation and has taken extra measures to protect their employees and their clientele.  Mike tells us about the folks he has encountered recently who refuse to wear masks and who are openly aggressive about that.  He speaks of the political and safety stances he and his company are making and how that has become much more important given the focus of Covid-19 and the current political climate.  He believes that we should all be standing right now.  Standing firm in our values and standing firm in our beliefs.  It's a great example we can all take on in our own lives.  

August is here. The extra unemployment benefits have ended. Rent and mortgage forgiveness is expiring. The Congress is dragging their feet and packing the relief bill with pork and unnecessary spending instead of focusing on the needs of the American people.   A new mini show that Shawndra and I perform live.  This will be bonus material to our regular interview episodes.  We will focus on current headlines and topics and other items we don't get to discuss on the other episodes.

We speak with Jillian Summers and Jeff Catanese.  Jill is the Technical Director and Scenic Designer at Asheville Community Theatre.  Jeff is an actor, director, Artistic Director at Attic Salt Theatre Company and an all around theatre raconteur.  We talk about the cultural loss we are experiencing as all of theaters have shut down.  We discuss how what exists now - live Zoom performances, Facebook Live, etc are fine - but they are not theater.  Theater is a rare art form that relies heavily on the interaction of performer and audience.  It is impossible to recreate that in the Covid era.  We look to theater getting back to its roots and being more interactive with the audience and less presentational.  Jill brings up the systemic racism associated with the institution of theater - and how this shut down is an opportunity to examine that as well as many other things that could change theater for the better.  We also discuss education and the looming return to school - and how that is being approached and handled.  An interesting, telling and often hilarious conversation.    

We speak with Brian Jones, a security contractor from Florida.  Brian was recently in Portland, Oregon to document and experience the protests.  We spend a lot of time discussing this and hearing Brian's perspective.  Brian is also a Covid-19 survivor who has lingering symptoms and complications that still persist.  He describes his experience and how he remains hopeful.  Brian is a witty, interesting guy who describes himself as an agent provocateur. Centrist or Political Anomaly. Troller of both sides of the fence.  His Facebook feed is often hilarious and provocative - and the comment sections are something to behold - especially since Brian has friends from every part of the political spectrum.  As I describe him - he likes to poke the fire - whatever color that fire may be.  Great perspective on Portland and on Covid-19.  A fun conversation.

We speak with Katie Button - CEO and Executive Chef at Cúrate Restaurant and Button & Co. Bagels.  Katie is a James Beard award winning chef and has been a fierce advocate for independent restaurants during the hardships of the pandemic.  She speaks of the challenges of reopening and of the path forward.  She highlights the restaurant relief bill working its way through congress and how that is so important to keep our favorite restaurants open and existing - even Post Covid.  She brings a lot of philosophical and cultural views to the conversation and reminds us of the important interconnected nature of restaurants to farmers, distributers, butchers and more.  We also hit on the issues of reopening and the customers who don't enjoy adhering to the new rules.  We so enjoyed speaking with Katie.