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In this episode, we sit down with Chris Shurian, an entrepreneur whose journey has been defined by resilience, reinvention, and relentless determination. As an 8-time founder, 4-time business exit entrepreneur, mentor, advisor, and leadership coach, Chris has spent nearly four decades building companies across construction, real estate, hospitality, manufacturing, retail, and more. Chris shares the lessons he's learned from building and scaling businesses, navigating setbacks, leading through adversity, and helping other founders make better decisions when the pressure is highest. From entrepreneurial wins to hard-earned battle scars, this conversation dives into what it really takes to build a meaningful business and a fulfilling life. Whether you're a founder, aspiring entrepreneur, or leader looking for clarity in your next season of growth, this episode is packed with practical wisdom, powerful stories, and insights you won't want to miss.
What if the most dangerous thing you're doing as a founder isn't a bad strategy, a poor hire, or a cash flow problem — but the performance of strength that's slowly isolating you from the truth your business and your life most urgently need you to face? In this episode of That Will Nevr Work, host Maurice sits down with Chris Shurian — entrepreneur, cancer survivor, Ironman finisher, Small Business Operations Coach, and host of Bootstraps & Battle Scars — for one of the most raw, real, and genuinely necessary conversations we've ever had on this show. Chris has been knocked down hard — financially, physically, and spiritually — and stood back up every single time. His story isn't about avoiding failure. It's about surviving it. And after nearly four decades of building businesses, beating cancer, crossing Ironman finish lines, and sitting in the honest founder conversations that most people never get to have, Chris is on a mission to create the safe spaces where founders can finally drop the armor and tell the truth. In this episode, you'll discover:What the founder's armor is actually made of — and why the entrepreneurial identity makes vulnerability feel like a threatWhy the most dangerous conversation a founder avoids is often the one with themselvesWhat surviving cancer and completing Ironman races taught Chris about the way founders treat their bodies and their mental healthFour decades of entrepreneurial lessons about economic storms, rebuilding, and the long game of resilienceThe small business operations mistake that founder isolation and armor-wearing almost always createThe three things any founder can start doing tomorrow: service, positivity as a decision, and the courage to be honest about what's actually hardWhy the founder who can tell the truth is almost always the most effective leader in any room If you have been performing strength while quietly carrying something that deserves a real conversation — this episode is the safe space you've been looking for.
In Episode 35 of High Stakes, Tracey Devlyn sits down with USA Today bestselling author Alexa Martin to discuss her cowboy romance, BY THE BOOTSTRAPS—a heartwarming, joyful story about grief, reinvention, and finding love under Texas stars. “Alexa Martin has crafted a cowboy romance keeper!” —Lyla Sage, #1 New York Times bestselling author Author's Website: https://AlexaMartin.com Show Notes: https://traceydevlyn.com/podcast Love this episode? Rate it ⭐️ Thumbs Up
In Episode 35 of High Stakes, Tracey Devlyn sits down with USA Today bestselling author Alexa Martin to discuss her cowboy romance, BY THE BOOTSTRAPS—a heartwarming, joyful story about grief, reinvention, and finding love under Texas stars. “Alexa Martin has crafted a cowboy romance keeper!” —Lyla Sage, #1 New York Times bestselling author Author's Website: https://AlexaMartin.com Show Notes: https://traceydevlyn.com/podcast Love this episode? Rate it ⭐️ Thumbs Up
There is no shortcut around the grind but there is a better way to handle it. Kyle and Chris Shurian from Bootstraps and Battle Scars Podcast share hard-earned lessons on mindset, leadership, and customer experience that can help you build a stronger business and a better life at the same time.Today's episode is sponsored by Builder Funnel! Click here to learn more about how Builder Funnel helps remodelers and home builders grow through strategic digital marketing.Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights!Key TakeawaysResilient entrepreneurs view setbacks as lessons, not failures, enabling faster recovery.A positive mindset is an active discipline that fuels perseverance during hardships.Exceptional customer service thrives on relentless consistency in daily actions.Building a business that supports life balance requires intentional design.Risk management hinges on conservative financial practices and strategic growth.Continuous learning enriches entrepreneurial intuition and leadership growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background06:12 Entrepreneurial Journey and Lessons Learned08:22 Coaching and Helping Others
Jess and Trisha share some When In Romance news, reflect on the last eight years in romance, and talk about what they've read - and want to read - this year. News Check out all the great work Jane is doing at Romancing the Data This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Books Discussed Shoot Your Shot by Lexi LaFleur Brown Check, Please! Book 2 by Ngozi Ukazu A Vow in Vengeance by Jaclyn Rodriguez Enemies to Lovers by Alisha Rai Cleat Chaser by Aimee Rivkin Star Shipped by Cat Sebastian The Night We Met by Abby Jimenez How to Fake it In Society by KJ Charles Pot Shot by Laura Piper Lee By the Bootstraps by Alexa Martin I Punched an Alien and Now We're in Couples Therapy by Kimberly Lemming Sunflower Season by Danica Nava Fire Power by Mir Benitz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Episode 457 of Friends Talking Nerdy brings The Reverend Tracy and Tim The Nerd back to the table for Part 2 of their deep dive into one of society's most persistent—and misleading—ideas: “pulling yourself up by your bootstraps.”Picking up where last week left off, this episode goes even further beneath the surface, unpacking the powerful illusion that success is purely the result of individual grit and determination. The Reverend Tracy breaks down how this narrative has been shaped, repeated, and reinforced over time, while Tim The Nerd brings his signature curiosity and perspective to the conversation, asking the questions many people are thinking—but don't always say out loud.Together, they explore the concept of survivorship bias—why we tend to focus on the rare success stories while ignoring the countless others who worked just as hard but didn't “make it.” The discussion highlights how these selective narratives distort reality and create unrealistic expectations about opportunity and upward mobility.The episode also takes a hard look at structural inequalities—factors like socioeconomic status, education access, community resources, and generational wealth—that quietly but profoundly shape outcomes. Rather than dismissing personal responsibility, The Reverend Tracy and Tim The Nerd reframe the conversation, emphasizing that effort exists within a broader system that can either support or hinder success.Thought-provoking without losing its grounded, conversational tone, this installment challenges listeners to rethink what they've been taught about achievement, fairness, and opportunity. It's not just about questioning the myth—it's about understanding the bigger picture and recognizing the forces that often go unseen.If Part 1 cracked the surface, Part 2 pulls back the curtain.And yeah… the “bootstraps” might not be what you thought they were.As always, we wish to thank Christopher Lazarek for his wonderful theme song. Head to his website for information on how to purchase his EP, Here's To You, which is available on all digital platforms.Head to Friends Talking Nerdy's website for more information on where to find us online.
In this episode of Beyond the Shelves, hosts Sarah and Jes kick things off with a lively conversation about what they've been reading lately and the spring publishing season's standout titles. Along the way they craft thoughtful cookbook–novel pairings built around themes like memory, heritage, legacy, flavor, and identity. Watch this episode on Youtube What We're Reading Star Shipped by Cat Sebastian Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir How to Commit a Postcolonial Murder by Nina McConigley Adult Braces by Lindy West Gunk by Saba Sams The Children by Melissa Albert Exciting new releases The Tapestry of Fate by Shannon Chakraborty By the Bootstraps by Alexa Martin American Spirits by Anna Dorn Japanese Gothic by Kylie Lee Baker Yesteryear by Cara Claire Burke Cookbooks and Novels Praisesong for the kitchen ghosts by Crystal Wilkinson The Kamogawa food detectives by Hisashi Kashiwai Butter by Asako Yuzuki The Butter Book by Anna Stockwell Recipe for Persuasion by Sonali Dev Cook Once Eat Twice by Nadiya Hussain The legendary frybread drive in by Intertribal stories Turtle Island: foods and traditions of the indigenous peoples of North America by Sean Sherman Maydan by Rose Previte The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer The particular sadness of lemon cake by Aimee Bender Dorie's anytime Cakes by Dorie Greeenspan Book Bulletin Release Dates for Next 2 'ACOTAR' Books Revealed by Sarah J. Maas New! Did Not Finish Shelf is On Its Way A.I. Is Writing Fiction. Publishers Are Unprepared.
What do you do when the numbers look right on paper… but everything in reality is falling apart?In this episode of Walk In Victory, NaRon Tillman sits down with Chris Shurian to unpack the hard truths of entrepreneurship — the kind you only learn through loss, pressure, and real-world experience.From construction deals gone wrong to navigating financial collapse, this conversation reveals how business challenges shape leadership, mindset, and long-term success.This isn't theory.This is lived experience — where decisions carry weight, and every move has consequences. Inside this episode:Why not all profitable deals should be pursuedThe danger of moving “good money” into bad situationsWhen to persist — and when to pull backJob costing, financial clarity, and protecting your businessLessons from the 2008–2009 financial collapseThe role of resilience in entrepreneurshipHow discipline (Ironman mindset) shapes leadershipThe power of coaching, community, and shared experienceThis episode is for builders, founders, and anyone navigating pressure in business while trying to stay grounded internally. Because success isn't just about winning. It's about surviving long enough to learn.⏱ Episode Timeline00:00 – Introduction: Business, Risk, and Real Experience01:30 – Construction Story: When a Deal Goes Wrong03:00 – The Cost of Doubling Down on a Bad Investment05:00 – Lessons from Financial Collapse06:30 – Job Costing and Business Fundamentals08:30 – Optimism vs Reality in Entrepreneurship10:00 – When to Hit the Brakes in Business12:00 – Protecting Profitable Work14:00 – Bootstrapping vs Throwing Money at Problems15:30 – Battle Scars and Entrepreneurial Growth17:00 – Ironman Mindset and Resilience19:00 – Small Wins During Hard Seasons20:30 – 2008 Financial Crisis Lessons22:00 – Coaching, Mentorship, and Founder Support24:00 – The Loneliness of Leadership25:30 – Learning Without Formal Education28:00 – Continuous Growth and Self-Education30:30 – Building Systems and Business Discipline32:00 – Creating Platforms That Support Entrepreneurs
Chris Shurian shares powerful lessons on resilience, adversity, and personal growth shaped through real-life challenges and hard-earned experience.In this episode of the Give A Heck Podcast, Chris opens up about what it truly means to navigate difficult seasons, take personal responsibility, and continue moving forward when life does not go as planned.This is not theory.It is lived experience.Through what he calls “bootstraps and battle scars,” Chris shares insights into how adversity shapes character, builds resilience, and forces clarity in the decisions we make.The conversation explores the importance of mindset, leadership, and ownership in building a life that reflects your values and direction.You will hear how real growth often comes from the situations we would rather avoid, and why embracing those moments can be the difference between staying stuck and moving forward.This episode is for anyone who is navigating challenges, seeking clarity, or looking to build a stronger, more intentional path in life.Because growth is not always comfortable, but it is always necessary.
Episode 456 of Friends Talking Nerdy kicks off a thought-provoking two-part deep dive as The Reverend Tracy and Tim The Nerd tackle one of the most persistent ideas in modern culture: the myth of “pulling yourself up by the bootstraps.”In Part 1, the duo unpacks the surprising origins of the phrase—revealing that it was never meant to be inspirational, but ironically impossible. From there, they explore how this concept evolved into a cornerstone of the American Dream, shaping how we think about success, failure, and personal responsibility.With their signature blend of insight and conversational chemistry, The Reverend Tracy and Tim The Nerd challenge the idea that success is purely the result of individual effort. Instead, they examine the often invisible forces at play—structural advantages, access to resources, social networks, and the profound impact of privilege.This episode digs into:How historical systems and policies have created uneven playing fieldsThe powerful role of geography, race, and economic background in shaping opportunityWhy some people benefit from a “head start” they may not even realize they haveThe “Matthew Effect” and how success tends to compound for those already aheadHow media and cultural narratives reinforce the illusion of meritocracyThe conversation doesn't just stop at identifying the problem—it also looks ahead, discussing the role of social programs and policy in leveling the playing field and why acknowledging systemic inequality is key to meaningful change.Part 1 sets the foundation for a bigger conversation coming next week, challenging listeners to rethink what success really means—and who truly has access to it.As always, we wish to thank Christopher Lazarek for his wonderful theme song. Head to his website for information on how to purchase his EP, Here's To You, which is available on all digital platforms.Head to Friends Talking Nerdy's website for more information on where to find us online.
Extended episode of Kraken Weekly with Mike Benton and Al Kinisky, joined by Kraken Hockey Network analyst Alison Lukan, and covering road trip reaction, the rise of Bobby McMann, Adam Larsson hitting 1,000 games, and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What shifts when life feels heavy, unclear, or stuck? On Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, hosted by Sayan, Chris Shurian shares how mindset and clarity can help us face challenges with more intention and less fear. This episode is for anyone feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or mentally drained. You'll hear how daily practice, perspective, and self-awareness can slowly turn struggle into growth and help you find steadiness again. About the Guest: Chris Shurian is an entrepreneur with nearly four decades of experience and the creator of the Bootstraps and Battle Scars platform. He is known as the “Clarity Guy” and focuses on mindset, clarity, and intentional living. Episode Chapter: 00:03:29 Why clarity matters when life feels mentally heavy 00:05:08 The mentor who shaped Chris's mindset 00:09:29 The biggest misconception about positive thinking 00:11:09 Finding value even in difficult seasons 00:13:18 Why mindset is built through daily practice 00:15:48 Social media, comparison, and mental fog 00:20:40 One grounding thought for hard times Key Takeaways: Mindset is built through practice, not one-time motivation Hard seasons are temporary, even when they feel long Look for meaning inside difficulty, not just the discomfort Stop comparing your path to someone else's highlight reel Respect different perspectives without losing your own center How to Connect With the Guest: Website: https://bootstrapsandbattlescars.com/ Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it's become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty, storyteller, survivor, and wellness advocate. With over 6000+ episodes and 200K+ global listeners, we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters.
Do you enjoy not saying words you're not supposed to? We do too! Unfortunately, we have to say these words so that we can tell you what words you can't say. Don't blame us! They've been canceled. It's out of our control. Today's post is inspired by the article "30 phrases liberals won't let us say anymore," which said 15 when we started recording.Round 305: Brought to you by cheap‑ass boots~~~~~~~Please support us on the Beer Thursday Patreon page! Join the Beer Thursday Patreon and keep the rounds flowing! The next eighteen Patrons who join at the $10 level get access to the secret Beer Thursday Facebook group, where the conversations are as wild as the phrases we're apparently not allowed to say anymore.Plus, you'll get to hear part 2 of this series on Monday instead of 6 months from now!~~~~~~~Want to see beer, cigars, and questionable lighting choices? Follow Jay's Beertography on Instagram at @BeerThursdayShow. It's like National Geographic, but with more hops and fewer endangered animals.~~~~~~~Make sure you subscribe so you never miss a round, and leave us a five‑star review so we can keep pretending we're professionals.~~~~~~~Here's what our house elf, Artie (not Archie), says about this round: This round dives into canceled phrases and politically incorrect sayings that the internet says we shouldn't use anymore. Shayne and Jay start with “hold down the fort,” which apparently has a “dark secret,” depending on which Civil War general you ask. Then they tackle “ladies and gentlemen,” which is now too limiting for a world with more than two genders and at least three million opinions.Bootstraps come next, along with the shocking discovery that boots are expensive and cheap‑ass boots hurt your feet. A heartfelt toast follows, proving that words are powerful, emotional, and occasionally sharp as a box cutter.Then comes “powwow,” which leads to a debate about cultural appropriation, tribal languages, tomahawks, and the Kansas City Chefs. “Tomboy” rolls in with skateboards, cutting boards, and grammar crimes. Finally, “exotic” gets canceled for sounding like a compliment but apparently not being one. Also, it rhymes with “erotic,” which sends the round straight into Beer Thursday territory.It's chaotic, goofy, and full of canceled‑phrase confusion — exactly what you expect from a round like this.~~~~~~~Disclosure: I don't really have a house elf. Artie is AI. Get it? Artie‑ficial Intelligence!~~~~~~~00:00 – Opening BanterShayne introduces the list, and Jay immediately breaks it.00:47 – Fort Trouble“Hold down the fort” gets canceled for mysterious reasons.02:27 – Shop Talk“Man the shop” becomes “person the shop.”04:29 – Ladies & GentsGeorge Michael, gender counts, and confusion.06:26 – Bootstraps: don't pull themCheap‑ass boots and social commentary.08:14 – Toast TimeA poetic tribute to the human word.09:15 – PowwowCultural debates and ancient detergent secrets.11:30 – Chiefs & ChefsSports names and accidental appropriation.14:00 – TomboySkateboards, cutting boards, and grammar guilt.16:30 – ExoticCompliments, confusion, and rhyming danger.
Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, Ben Murray sits down with Tony Petrilli, CEO of ViewTrade, to uncover the journey behind building a global fintech platform that's redefining cross-border financial services. From writing code on early PCs to leading innovation at major institutions like Morgan Stanley and Citibank, Tony Petrilli shares how ViewTrade evolved from a brokerage into a full-stack SaaS provider serving 300 firms worldwide. You'll hear candid insights about bootstrapping a complex product, the realities of scaling and global expansion, and the reasoning behind a customer-led, composable solution instead of a rigid, product-led approach. Plus, he reveals how ViewTrade balances profitability, growth, and innovation—including the strategic use of AI—and what's next on the horizon as they target nine-digit growth. Whether you're a SaaS founder, finance exec, or just curious about how technology is transforming financial services, this episode is packed with valuable lessons, operational metrics, and entrepreneurial wisdom. Let's dive in! Show Notes: 00:00 "Turnkey Cross-Border Financial Solutions" 03:57 "Modernizing Investment with Embedded Solutions" 07:07 Revolutionizing Financial Firms' Efficiency 12:15 "Customer-Led Solutions Drive Inbound" 15:15 "Fintech Sustainability and Responsibility" 18:35 "Starting Small, Scaling Strategically" 19:47 "CEO's Profit Margin Focus" 22:33 "Building Leaders and Expanding Globally" 25:38 Global Expansion and Wealth Ventures Links: Tony Petrilli's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-tony-petrilli-a2b59825/ ViewTrade's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/viewtrade-holding/ ViewTrade's Website: https://www.viewtrade.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray
Text The Late Bloomer Actor a Question or Comment.In this episode of the Late Bloomer Actor podcast, host David John Clark dives into the concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) with guest Conrad Shaw, an actor and advocate for UBI. They explore how UBI can provide financial stability for creatives, allowing them to focus on their craft without the constant pressure of financial insecurity. Conrad shares insights from his work on the Bootstraps project and discusses the potential societal benefits of UBI, including increased creativity and reduced poverty.TakeawaysUBI provides a financial floor for everyone, allowing people to pursue their passions without financial stress.Conrad Shaw's Bootstraps project explores the real-world impact of UBI on individuals and communities.UBI can lead to increased creativity and productivity by removing the fear of financial insecurity.The concept of UBI is gaining traction globally, with various pilot programs showing positive results.UBI is not about replacing work but enhancing the quality of work and life.Financial stability through UBI can lead to healthier risk-taking and innovation.UBI can reduce poverty and inequality by providing a basic income to all citizens.The arts and creative industries stand to benefit significantly from the implementation of UBI.UBI encourages a shift from survival mode to a focus on personal growth and contribution.Find Conrad on LinkedIn.For information on Comingle.For information on The Bootstraps Project.And certainly check out the ITSA Foundation. Support the showPlease consider supporting the show by becoming a paid subscriber (you can cancel at any time) by clicking the 'Support' button in your player and you will have the opportunity to be a part of the live recordings prior to release.And please Rate the show on IMDB.This episode was recorded on RiversideFM - click the link to join and record. And I listen to my favourite podcasts on TrueFans. TrueFans is a podcasting marketplace where listeners discover the podcasts they love but only pay the price they want for the value they receive. Download in your Apple or Google playstores. Check out The Secret Actor Society a community and educational platform to help propel your career forward. Use this link for 40% off your first two payments (after two free trial months.) I am a huge advocate for and user of WeAudition - an online community for self-taping and auditions. Use the PROMO code: LATEBLOOMER for 25% of your membership.
Jess and Trisha talk about why Heated Rivalry is so much more successful than other Harlequin adaptations released at the same time and then share some of their most anticipated titles of 2026. Follow the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. To get even more romance recs and news, sign up for our Kissing Books newsletter! News: Send us your most anticipated romances of 2026, and/or your book club suggestions!! Some background on Heated Rivalry [Vanity Fair] And a reminder of those Harlequin adaptations airing on the CW [Variety] Books Discussed: Every New Year by Katrina Jackson Deception by Amanda Quick The Packing List (anthology) Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid Restore Me by JL Seegars (1/6/26) Father Material by Alexis Hall (6/2/26) By the Bootstraps by Alexa Martin (5/26/26) It's All In Your Head by Sabina Nordqvist (2/10/26) The Night We Met by Abby Jimenez (3/31/26) Only Friends by Lydia San Andres (2/10/26) Last First Kiss by Julian Winters (1/27/26) Like In Love With You by Emma R. Alban (1/13/26) A Lady for All Seasons by TJ Alexander (3/10/26) The Baby Dragon Bookshop by A.T. Qureshi (2/12/26) This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Let us know what you're reading, what you're thinking, and what you're thinking about what you're reading! As always, you can find Jess and Trisha at the WIR email address (wheninromance@bookriot.com). You can also find us on Twitter (@jessisreading), or Instagram (@jess_is_reading and @trishahaleybrown), and Jess is even on TikTok (@jess_isreading). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this episode of The MisFitNation, host Rich LaMonica welcomes entrepreneur, storyteller, and resilience expert Chris Shurian for a raw and unforgettable conversation about grit, reinvention, and what it really takes to keep going. Chris's life reads like a movie—growing up between Southern California and rural Montana, navigating deep spiritual transitions, surviving cancer, completing two Ironmans, and building (and rebuilding) businesses across nine industries over nearly four decades. He's won big, lost big, and learned the lessons most entrepreneurs only talk about. As the founder of Bootstraps & Battle Scars and creator of Founders Exchange, Chris now helps entrepreneurs in the trenches strip off the armor, get honest, and grow into extraordinary leaders—without the fake hustle. This episode dives into: • Reinvention after failure • Lessons earned the hard way • Entrepreneurship without the highlight reel • Purpose beyond profit • Why scars matter more than success stories If you love real stories from real people who've lived it—not just preached it—this one's for you.
Conrad Shaw “So much of the labor market is driven by desperation. UBI shifts that. People can actually hold out for what they're worth or for work that aligns with who they are.” — Conrad ShawConrad is perhaps the most unique guest I have had in the 5 year history of this show and he is on to talk about Universal Basic Income (UBI) , a very unique topic that is growing in exposure.For almost a decade Conrad has dedicated his life and career to furthering the cause of Universal Basic Income (UBI).In 2016 he and his wife started a documentary called Bootstraps which focuses on following families who lived through the experience of a basic income.Since then, he has:* Fundraised for and operated a nationwide basic income pilot* Filmed a multi-year docuseries currently in post-production* Co-founded Commingle, a mutual-aid platform enabling communities to self-fund their own grassroots basic income systems* Worked extensively on messaging, outreach, and public education around income, stability, and societal transformationI learned a lot from Conrad and our conversation debunked my own myths about UBI. So a really important part of this episode is the truth about what Universal Basic Income (UBI) actually is — and what it is not.What Universal Basic Income (UBI) Is — And What It Isn'tUBI is the idea that every person receives a recurring, unconditional, baseline income — a financial floor that ensures no one starts the month at zero. It is not meant to replace work or equalize everybody's income. Instead, it shifts the starting point so people can make decisions from stability rather than desperation.What UBI is:* A stable, universal base-level income for all* A platform for economic mobility and personal freedom* A modernized, simplified social safety net* A tool for reducing the survival-based pressure in the labor marketWhat UBI is not:* It does not eliminate jobs* It does not cap how much people can earn* It does not remove incentives to work* It is not a socialist equal-wealth systemUBI reframes the labor market so people compete for work based on interest, alignment, and ability, not raw financial need.Practical Ways UBI Could WorkConrad's work goes beyond speculation. He has spent nearly a decade building practical UBI experiments, including the national pilot documented in Bootstraps (2016) and his current role with the Income To Support All Foundation and Commingle, a new community-driven model.He explains that UBI can be implemented through several pathways—government programs, private pilots, or community-level mutual aid—but none are simple. A government-led UBI requires political will and rethinking how we allocate resources. Philanthropic pilots can demonstrate impact, but they're temporary. Community models like Commingle allow people to pool and redistribute resources now, without waiting for legislation, but scaling them is challenging.What's clear is that executing UBI at any level is difficult, requiring trust, infrastructure, and cultural acceptance. Yet the difficulty doesn't diminish the need. Instead, it underscores why experimentation and new models matter.Individual Differences: Why UBI Supports People Doing What They're Meant to DoOne of the deepest connections between Conrad's work and mine is the concept of individual differences—the idea that every person brings a unique constellation of strengths, traits, interests, and abilities that make them naturally better suited to certain kinds of work.When people are trapped in survival mode, those natural gifts often go unused. They pick jobs they can get, not jobs that reflect who they are. Freedom from this paradigm reshapes careers in ways that benefit both individuals and employers, allowing people to walk away from toxic or exploitative conditions and take jobs they genuinely care about, leading to better performance and engagement.With a secure foundation, people have the psychological and financial freedom to make career decisions based on fit, not fear. This supports:* Better alignment between person and role* Higher engagement and intrinsic motivation* Better workforce outcomes because people choose work that matches their abilities* Greater societal value, as more people apply their genuine talents instead of defaulting to whatever job pays immediatelyFrom Conrad's perspective, this alignment is one of the most compelling aspects of UBI. When people are free to choose work that resonates with their abilities, the labor market becomes more efficient and more human. Employers gain workers who actually want to be there. Individuals gain a sense of purpose rooted in their authentic strengths.In a world where AI, automation, and job volatility make career paths uncertain, helping people express their natural abilities becomes more important—not less.How AI Fits Into the UBI ConversationAI enters this conversation as both a catalyst and a complicating force. As Conrad points out, technological change is accelerating so quickly that we can no longer predict which jobs will exist, which skills will matter, or how stable any given career path will be. This uncertainty puts enormous pressure on individuals—especially those who don't have the luxury to retrain, take risks, or weather employment gaps. UBI provides a stabilizing infrastructure in that landscape, giving people the freedom to adapt as work evolves rather than being overwhelmed by it.AI serves the UBI concept well because it highlights the importance of individual differences: as routine tasks get automated, the value of uniquely human abilities—creativity, empathy, problem-solving, and deep domain expertise—rises. UBI supports people in discovering and developing those strengths, while also offering society a buffer as AI reshapes industries faster than institutions can respond. In this way, AI doesn't replace the need for UBI—it makes the case for it even stronger.Why Making UBI Work Matters in an Uncertain FutureWe must acknowledge the reality: we are entering a period defined by instability—rapid technological change, unpredictable job markets, and widening gaps between opportunity and access. In such an environment, the old assumptions about steady careers, stable industries, and predictable pathways no longer hold.UBI becomes a tool for resilience. It doesn't solve every problem, but it gives people the space to adapt, learn, and navigate a chaotic future without falling into crisis. It creates room for people to pursue what they're best suited for, rather than what pays the most simply out of need.The conversation frames UBI not as a political ideology but as a human-centered adaptation strategy—a way to strengthen psychological well-being, improve labor market alignment, and provide society with a more stable foundation as the world accelerates around us.The truth is that UBI isn't easy; it's a fight against gravity in a system not built for change, but we are entering into an unprecedented level of uncertainty in all aspects of our lives- so we need to have creative and idealistic solutions This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit charleshandler.substack.com
How can AI be adopted in a way that turns more students into “explorers” rather than “passengers” in their learning? This week we bring you a conversation with the co-author of a book on student disengagement in school, Rebecca Winthrop, who is also researching the impact of AI on education. The episode is by one of Future U's producers, Jeff Young, from his new podcast, Learning Curve.Chapters0:00 - Intro 4:19 - When the ‘Student Disengagement Crisis' Started7:25 - A Framework for Describing Levels of Student Engagement15:18 - How AI Is Impacting Student Motivation19:00 - Why ChatGPT's ‘Study Mode' Is Not the Answer25:05 - Advice for Companies Making AI Tools for Education29:32 - Tips for Students 34:42 - A High School Student's Take on AI 48:30 - Advice For Teachers on Dealing with AI51:35 - What Is the Purpose of School in the Age of Generative AI?Publications Mentioned:“The Disengaged Teen,” by Rebecca Winthrop and Jenny Anderson “Minnesota high school student weighs the benefits and pitfalls of AI,” Minnesota Now“I'm a High Schooler. AI Is Demolishing My Education,”The AtlanticBrookings Global Task Force on AI in Educationwebsite‘We Have to Really Rethink the Purpose of Education,'The Ezra Klein Show“Attention Please: Professors Struggle With Student Disengagement,”EdSurge“Playing the Grade Game,”Bootstraps podcast seriesConnect with Michael Horn:Sign Up for the The Future of Education NewsletterWebsiteLinkedInX (Twitter)Threads Connect with Jeff Selingo:Dream School: Finding the College That's Right for YouSign Up for the Next NewsletterWebsiteX (Twitter)ThreadsLinkedInConnect with Future U:TwitterYouTubeThreadsInstagramFacebookLinkedIn Submit a question and if we answer it on air we'll send you Future U. swag!Sign up for Future U. emails to get special updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Hello nerds.When I first started interviewing Scott Santens years ago during the Nerds for Yang era, he was one of the most relentless and articulate advocates for universal basic income (UBI) in America. Back then, it felt like the country was on the verge of something big. Andrew Yang was on the debate stage making “Freedom Dividend” a household phrase. Silicon Valley technologists were whispering about automation in the same breath as moral responsibility. Even Republican voters were entertaining the idea that direct cash transfers might be less bureaucratic and more empowering than sprawling social programs.Fast forward to 2025, and the conversation feels quieter. The pandemic-era stimulus checks are long gone. Washington has reverted to tribal warfare. Meanwhile, AI is advancing faster than anyone—maybe even Scott and Andrew —predicted. The irony is thick: the very forces that made UBI seem like a radical idea a decade ago are now transforming entire industries before our eyes. And yet, the movement feels stuck in neutral.So when Scott rejoined me on Nerds for Humanity this month from his new base in Washington, D.C., I wanted to know: What happened? Why did UBI lose its moment? And is there a realistic path back to the mainstream before millions of Americans get left behind?The Move to D.C. and the Lost MomentScott began by explaining why he left New Orleans for D.C. a few years ago. “It just seemed that UBI was really a bigger part of the conversation,” he said. “I thought if the Democrats came in again in 2024, I could actually get some traction.”He laughs a little when he says that now. “That didn't end up happening,” he admitted, reflecting on how the Biden reelection froze the kind of idea competition that defined 2020. “The big problem was that Biden decided to run again, and there was no primary process. Then suddenly Kamala comes in and still no primary process. So there was no ideas competition. We really missed out on that.”That lack of competition, Scott argues, has a ripple effect. Political movements thrive on moments of contrast, when new ideas bump up against old dogmas and voters are forced to re-evaluate assumptions. The 2020 race—with Yang, Sanders, Warren, and others pitching structural reforms—was one of those rare idea-rich moments. 2024, by comparison, was a desert.As Scott put it bluntly: “We were close enough to taste it during the pandemic. It really felt like we were actually on the cusp of doing a monthly cash payment that could change things. But none of that happened.”He's not wrong. The COVID checks were, in effect, a large-scale experiment in direct income support. Poverty temporarily plummeted. Families caught their breath. Consumer demand stayed strong. And then we let it all expire.AI Ate the Jobs While America SleptWhat's striking about this quiet period, as I noted to Scott, is that the threat he and Yang warned about—the automation of work—is no longer hypothetical. Knowledge worker jobs are being eaten by AI faster than policy debates can catch up.“I'm a parent of two teenagers,” I told him. “Other parents are starting to wonder if a computer science degree is still the golden ticket. Should we be preparing our kids to be plumbers instead?”Scott nodded grimly. “It's disheartening,” he said. “Now that these impacts are here… this is the stuff that we've been warning about. It's not a sudden thing, but it does seem to already be impacting the entry-level job market.”He pointed to a convergence of pressures: corporate hiring freezes driven by uncertainty around tariffs, companies experimenting with AI productivity tools, and executives under shareholder pressure to “do more with less.” The result: stagnating headcount even in high-growth sectors.“We don't really need people that we likely would have if AI had not been introduced,” he said. I observed from Silicon Valley, “What we're seeing right now is that companies can grow revenue while keeping headcount flat.”It's not a collapse. It's a quiet deceleration—a slow bleed. And that's arguably more dangerous because it doesn't provoke a policy response. There's no headline-grabbing “AI layoffs.” Just the invisible absence of opportunities for millions of new grads.Even top business schools are struggling to place students. “It's like the hardest market in years,” Scott said, and I agreed. “If we hit a recession,” he warned, “that's when all these businesses really lean into productivity. The recession ends, and they realize they don't need those people back.”That scenario—automation accelerated by economic downturn—is the nightmare UBI advocates have been predicting for over a decade. Each downturn becomes a ratchet that permanently eliminates another layer of middle-class work.The Automation MirageWhen politicians talk about “bringing manufacturing jobs back,” Scott and I get visibly frustrated. “I don't think people realize—you don't need that many people in those factories anymore,” I said.He reminded me of a chart he once published showing that U.S. manufacturing output is higher than ever, even though manufacturing employment has fallen dramatically. “We're manufacturing more than ever, we just have fewer jobs,” he said. “If we did reshoring, sure, we could manufacture even more, but jobs would continue going down.”I brought up a U.S. tech investor who recently toured Chinese EV plants. “He said the number of BYD employees per car is something like a fifth of what it is for Ford or GM,” I told Scott. “If we build plants here, we're not going to hire 20 people per car—we'll hire four or five.”Scott didn't hesitate: “Exactly. The only way to bring it back is to minimize labor. American labor is expensive. You can't both re-shore and keep the same job intensity.”Then he pivoted to a deeper critique of political dishonesty. “Trump sold a lot of people false hope,” he said. “He told them, ‘Once I negotiate these trade deals, everything's gonna be back to post–World War II full employment.' But that's a lie. We've heard that lie over and over again, even from people in the AI world. They say this will create more jobs than it displaces. Come on. We all know the realities.”This is the paradox of modern capitalism: productivity growth has decoupled from employment growth. We make more stuff with fewer people. And our political imagination hasn't caught up to that new reality.From Careers to Gigs: The New NormalScott traced this shift back decades. “We know what happened when we displaced people from manufacturing jobs—they went lower down the ladder into lower-paying work,” he said. “You went from careers to gig labor.”He rattled off examples that have become painfully familiar: “People now earn extra money by signing up for Uber, delivering food, DoorDashing. There's just a transformation of what employment even means.”In Scott's view, the only logical response to this is UBI. “You need to make sure everyone actually gets basic income,” he said. “That helps feed demand for new jobs. If people's incomes fall as a result of AI, demand falls. And when demand falls, the entire economy reorients.”He pointed to a staggering statistic: “Right now, the top 10% are buying half of everything produced and sold in the U.S. It's a very unequal consumption economy. The markets start ignoring the basic needs of people and reorient around luxury experiences.”That imbalance, he argued, isn't just economic—it's political. “It leads to people getting violent. It's key to the erosion of democracy.”The Coming Middle-Class AwakeningIf there's any silver lining, I said, it's that the pain is spreading up the income ladder.“I think it's going to affect a lot of middle-class and upper-middle-class people in a way it hasn't before,” I said. “When Andrew talked about truck drivers losing jobs, people thought, ‘My kid's going to college, they'll be fine.' Now they're realizing maybe not.”Scott agreed. “We just didn't realize how fast it would hit arts, music, images, and photos. I didn't think about that. It took me by surprise.”I added, “When he said doctors and lawyers, it felt far away. Now you're like—oh s**t—that's happening right now.”He laughed and I added more examples. “People are winning court cases using ChatGPT as their attorney. And with tools like Sora and Grok Imagine, you can generate realistic videos and images instantly. There's no ground truth anymore.”That last point hits hard. “You just give people a reason to doubt it,” Scott said. “You can have fake security cam footage of Sam Altman stealing something, and people will believe it. Or you can have real footage of Trump doing something, and people won't.”When truth itself becomes negotiable, democracy can't function. Evidence is the oxygen of public accountability. Once it's gone, all we have left are teams—and team loyalty.The Tariff FantasyThat team loyalty came up again when I told Scott about a debate I'd had with a MAGA relative in Florida. My brother argued that Trump's tariffs would pay for his tax cuts. Scott immediately laughed. “Even assuming that were true—which it's not—you're still taxing the working and middle class to pay for tax cuts for the rich,” he said.He broke it down simply: “It doesn't make any sense to say, ‘Tariff revenue will cover it.' Who covers the tariff revenue? It's the consumers. And yet people believe it.”Scott sees this as part of the broader epistemic collapse—people believing “whatever their team is saying,” no matter how illogical. “It's impressive in some ways,” I said. “You can propose policies that hurt your base and they'll cheer you for it.” He nodded. “Yeah. It's really frustrating.”UBI Research: Misunderstood and MisreportedI asked Scott about recent UBI research that some media outlets described as “disappointing.” His response was both sharp and nuanced.“Those weren't negative results,” he said. “They were null results.” He walked me through three often-cited studies: Baby's First Years, the Denver Homeless Pilot, and Sam Altman's Worldcoin/Overture experiment.“The key is to understand what's being tested,” he explained. “These weren't saturation pilots. They gave money to small groups of individuals. But real universal basic income changes communities. It creates new demand, new jobs, new dynamics.”He contrasted these with the Alaska Permanent Fund, which distributes oil dividends to every state resident annually. “In Alaska, we saw an overall increase in employment due to the dividend,” he said. “Some people worked less, but the spending created new jobs.”That's the essence of his argument: if you only study individuals, you miss the macro effects.He was especially skeptical of the way media covered the Baby's First Years study, which found no measurable difference in children's brain development after four years of $333 monthly payments. “That's a null result, not a failure,” Scott said. “It doesn't mean UBI doesn't work. It just means we didn't see differences yet. Impacts often show up later in life.”He also noted that measuring brain development via EEG scans is an odd and narrow metric. “Maybe families were happier. Maybe they bought what they needed. That still matters.”The Secret Study and New FrontiersScott hinted that a major new study is underway. “There's a study I can't talk about,” he said, smiling, “but it's looking at something no other experiment has looked at. I'm excited for those results.”He also mentioned Jeff Atwood (co-founder of Stack Overflow) is funding a $50 million set of county-level pilots, focusing on rural areas. “That's exciting,” Scott said. “It's a different political slice, and it's potentially saturation-like.”Globally, he's watching Thailand closely. “They announced they were going to do a negative income tax starting in 2027,” he said. “If that happens, they'd be the first country in the world to have a basic income guarantee. It could reduce poverty by over 90%.”Then he sighed. “But the day after they announced it, their prime minister got fired. So who knows.”ITSA Foundation: Building UBI From the Ground UpScott's not just theorizing anymore. His ITSA Foundation is taking action with two ambitious projects launching next year.First, the Bootstraps documentary series, which follows families receiving a basic income to humanize the policy through storytelling. “Storytelling is key,” he said. “People need to feel it, not just read data.”Second, the Comingle app, which will create what he calls “a small basic income floor of around $50 per week without waiting for government.”“You can create it yourself, through community pooling,” he said. “If Bill Gates joined Comingle and put 7% of his income in, everyone's income would go up. Don't worry about him getting $50 a week—everyone benefits.”It's the kind of practical experimentation the movement needs: bottom-up systems proving that shared prosperity can be engineered today, not someday.Reflections: The Hard Politics of Intelligent ReformAfter the interview ended, I stayed live on the stream to share a few personal reflections—some of them, frankly, tinged with frustration.I told my audience that I'm a believer in two three-letter acronyms: UBI and RCV (ranked choice voting). I have conviction that both are essential for a healthier democracy and a fairer economy. Yet it's maddening how little traction they get compared to what dominates our discourse.This morning, I argued politics with another MAGA acquaintance on WhatsApp. He was fired up about “the trans agenda” and “illegals.” When I asked what he thought about RCV or UBI, he admitted he didn't know what they were.And that, I said, is the tragedy. Many voters are animated by cultural wedge issues that barely affect their lives, while transformative structural reforms barely register. People will march for hours over trans athletes, but not over gerrymandering, open primaries, or the collapse of middle-class livelihoods.Maybe that's why Scott is investing in storytelling. “You have to boil this down into a bumper sticker,” I said. “Or a story.” Policy briefs won't cut through a media ecosystem optimized for outrage.It's sobering to realize how little energy we allocate to existential issues—like the sustainability of democracy or the viability of a middle-class life in an AI-driven economy—compared to the performative culture wars that dominate cable news.A Political System Addicted to DistractionI sometimes wonder if America is capable of solving long-term problems anymore. We have the tools and the talent, but not the attention span.We obsess over symbolic fights while the foundations rot. Closed primaries keep extremists in power. Gerrymandered districts ensure incumbents never lose. The electoral incentives all point toward division, not solutions.UBI and RCV are, in many ways, tests of whether we can think systemically again—about incentives, about fairness, about the structural forces shaping our future. And right now, the answer seems to be: not yet.As I told my audience, “It's sad that people will march for red-meat issues where government isn't even the decisive actor, while ignoring how broken the system itself has become.”The AI asteroid is heading straight for us. Millions of jobs—white-collar jobs—are on the chopping block. And neither party is talking seriously about it. Not Trump, not Schumer, not Newsom. Maybe Andrew Yang. Maybe Buttigieg. Maybe Bernie. But as a national conversation? Crickets.What's Next: Awakening or DenialMy optimism, if you can call it that, lies in inevitability. The pain will broaden until reform becomes unavoidable. Middle-class professionals will begin to experience the same precarity that working-class Americans have faced for decades.The good news is that when comfortable people get uncomfortable, politics shifts. The bad news is that it often takes crisis to get there.UBI isn't charity. It's infrastructure for an economy that no longer guarantees stability through employment. It's the plumbing of a post-industrial democracy.Scott put it best when he said: “You have to make sure everyone actually gets basic income so you have that cash. That can feed demand for new jobs. Without it, demand falls, inequality grows, and democracy erodes.”A Call to the NerdsAs we wrapped, I asked Scott how people could stay involved. “Sign up at ItsaFoundation.org,” he said. “Subscribe to the newsletter. Next year we'll have the Bootstraps docu-series, the Comingle app, and events across the country to organize communities.”I told him I'd be cheering him on. Because, frankly, the next five years are going to test whether America is still capable of rational self-government—or if we've outsourced that too.If you've made it this far into this post, you're probably one of the few people left who actually cares about data, ideas, and structural reform. You're a nerd. And that's a good thing.But as I told my audience at the end of the livestream: being a nerd isn't enough. We need to organize, support, and amplify. If we don't, the algorithms will drown out the quiet voices of reason.So if you value this kind of long-form conversation—the kind you won't find on cable news—please consider becoming a Nerds for Humanity YouTube channel member. Memberships help cover the operating costs of the livestream and keep these discussions going. Members also get shout-outs on every show as a thank-you for keeping independent, data-driven political analysis alive.And if you can't join as a member, the next best thing you can do is like, share, and comment. That helps the algorithm surface this content to others who might just be waking up to the same questions we've been asking for years.Bye nerds. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nerdsforhumanity.substack.com
Episode 23 of The Basic Income Show!Read: https://scottsantens.substack.com/p/the-reports-of-ubis-death-are-greatlyChapters:00:00 Plugging my newest article03:56 Comingle and Bootstraps updates08:20 Boulder, CO results20:58 Alameda, CA results33:06 Ithaca, NY results47:34 New Mexico launches universal childcare51:03 Flint, MI results1:02:51 New Jersey child poverty report1:08:20 New results from Ireland1:23:25 New results from Finland1:29:03 Child allowance average1:32:46 Tempe, AZ South Park pilot1:34:08 OutroSummary:This conversation delves into six recent studies of UBI via just released guaranteed basic income pilot results. The hosts discuss the psychological benefits of UBI, including increased hope and a sense of mattering, while also addressing in response to a viewer question the potential of cryptocurrency in funding these initiatives. They highlight the importance of community support and the positive outcomes observed in various UBI pilot programs, emphasizing the need for flexible support systems for caregivers and the broader implications of financial stability on mental health. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various aspects of universal basic income (UBI) and its implications on society, particularly focusing on recent developments in universal childcare programs, the RX Kids initiative in Flint, Michigan, and new health results of Finland's basic income study. They explore the positive outcomes of these programs on mental health, economic stability, and the arts, emphasizing the importance of universality in social support systems. The discussion also touches on the economic value of creativity and the need for a more comprehensive understanding of societal benefits beyond traditional metrics like GDP.See my ongoing compilation of UBI evidence on Bluesky:https://bsky.app/profile/scottsantens.com/post/3lckzcleo7s24See my ongoing compilation of UBI evidence on X: https://x.com/scottsantens/status/1766213155967955332US guaranteed basic income pilot result summaries:https://www.guaranteedincomeworks.org/researchFor more info about UBI, please refer to my UBI FAQ: http://scottsantens.com/basic-income-faqDonate to the Income To Support All Foundation to support UBI projects:https://www.itsafoundation.orgSubscribe to the ITSA Newsletter for monthly UBI news:https://itsanewsletter.beehiiv.com/subscribeVisit Basic Income Today for daily UBI news:https://basicincometoday.comSign up for the Comingle waitlist for voluntary UBI:https://www.comingle.usFollow Scott:https://linktr.ee/scottsantensFollow Conrad:https://bsky.app/profile/theubiguy.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/conradshaw/Follow Josh:https://bsky.app/profile/misterjworth.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/joshworth/Special thanks to: Gisele Huff, Haroon Mokhtarzada, Steven Grimm, Bob Weishaar, Dorothy Krahn, Judith Bliss, Lowell Aronoff, Jessica Chew, Katie Moussouris, David Ruark,Tricia Garrett, A.W.R., Daryl Smith, Larry Cohen, John Steinberger, Philip Rosedale, Liya Brook, Frederick Weber, Laurel gillespie, Dylan Hirsch-Shell, Tom Cooper, Robert Collins, Joanna Zarach, Mgmguy, Albert Wenger, Andrew Yang, Peter T Knight, Michael Finney, David Ihnen, Steve Roth, Miki Phagan, Walter Schaerer, Elizabeth Corker, Albert Daniel Brockman, Natalie Foster, Joe Ballou, Arjun ,' @Justin_Dart , Felix Ling, S, Jocelyn Hockings, Mark Donovan, Jason Clark, Chuck Cordes, Mark Broadgate, Leslie Kausch, Braden Ferrin , Juro Antal, centuryfalcon64, Deanna McHugh, Stephen Castro-Starkey, Tommy Caruso, and all my other patrons for their support.If you'd like to see your name here in future video descriptions, you can do so by becoming a patron on Patreon at the UBI Producer level or above: https://www.patreon.com/scottsantens/membership#universalbasicincome #BasicIncome #UBI
Episode 21 of The Basic Income Show!UBI is in High School Prodigies Have It Easy Even in Another World!Chapters:00:00 The Basic Income Show at SXSW03:37 Basic Income for the Arts public consultation05:17 Guaranteed Basic Income in Palm Springs10:32 Guaranteed Basic Income in Los Angeles12:16 Institutional Fears of Trump17:56 Bright children in low-income homes study21:02 Could Malaysia win the UBI race?22:40 UBI legislation introduced in Colombia35:50 UBI scene in High School Prodigies Have It Easy Even in Another World56:20 Basic Income for Farmers in the UK57:17 Basic Income versus UBI1:03:15 Universality helps prevent corruption1:04:46 Neurodivergence and Bureaucracy1:10:37 Crime and the National Guard in DC1:15:35 Americans spend 4 hours a day thinking about money1:19:35 Patreon SupportersSummary:In this episode of The Basic Income Show, Scott Santens, Conrad Shaw, and Josh Worth cover major new developments in Universal Basic Income (UBI) policy, research, and culture. They discuss the Bootstraps docu-series heading to South by Southwest, Ireland's Basic Income for the Arts consultation, and new Guaranteed Basic Income pilots in Palm Springs and Los Angeles. The hosts examine institutional fears of Trump, a new study on bright children in low-income households, and Malaysia's bold push that could make it the first nation with a true UBI. They also explore UBI legislation in Colombia, a UK program for farmers, and the importance of universality in preventing corruption. Alongside these updates, the team dives into how anime (High School Prodigies Have It Easy Even in Another World) depicts UBI, the struggles of neurodivergent people navigating bureaucracy, and the reality that Americans spend four hours a day worrying about money. This wide-ranging conversation blends news, culture, and research to highlight why UBI remains one of the most urgent and transformative policies of our time.See my ongoing compilation of UBI evidence on Bluesky:https://bsky.app/profile/scottsantens.com/post/3lckzcleo7s24See my ongoing compilation of UBI evidence on X: https://x.com/scottsantens/status/1766213155967955332For more info about UBI, please refer to my UBI FAQ: http://scottsantens.com/basic-income-faqDonate to the Income To Support All Foundation to support UBI projects:https://www.itsafoundation.orgSubscribe to the ITSA Newsletter for monthly UBI news:https://itsanewsletter.beehiiv.com/subscribeVisit Basic Income Today for daily UBI news:https://basicincometoday.comSign up for the Comingle waitlist for voluntary UBI:https://www.comingle.usFollow Scott:https://linktr.ee/scottsantensFollow Conrad:https://bsky.app/profile/theubiguy.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/conradshaw/Follow Josh:https://bsky.app/profile/misterjworth.bsky.socialhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/joshworth/Special thanks to: Gisele Huff, Haroon Mokhtarzada, Steven Grimm, Bob Weishaar, Judith Bliss, Lowell Aronoff, Jessica Chew, Katie Moussouris, David Ruark,Tricia Garrett, A.W.R., Daryl Smith, Larry Cohen, John Steinberger, Philip Rosedale, Liya Brook, Frederick Weber, Laurel gillespie, Dylan Hirsch-Shell, Tom Cooper, Robert Collins, Joanna Zarach, Mgmguy, Albert Wenger, Andrew Yang, Peter T Knight, Michael Finney, David Ihnen, Steve Roth, Miki Phagan, Walter Schaerer, Elizabeth Corker, Albert Daniel Brockman, Natalie Foster, Joe Ballou, Arjun ,' @Justin_Dart , Felix Ling, S, Jocelyn Hockings, Mark Donovan, Jason Clark, Chuck Cordes, Mark Broadgate, Leslie Kausch, Braden Ferrin , Juro Antal, centuryfalcon64, Deanna McHugh, Stephen Castro-Starkey, Tommy Caruso, and all my other patrons for their support.If you'd like to see your name here in future video descriptions, you can do so by becoming a patron on Patreon at the UBI Producer level or above.Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/scottsantens/membership#universalbasicincome #BasicIncome #UBI
If Senator Slotkin wants to use her great-grandfather's story to attack socialism, she'd better start telling the whole truth—because the next generation is telling theirs, and they're not buying what she's selling.
If Senator Slotkin wants to use her great-grandfather's story to attack socialism, she'd better start telling the whole truth—because the next generation is telling theirs, and they're not buying what she's selling.
Message for August 3, 2025Family devotions and extra content can be found on our Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/milancc.go
The Spleen got access to a rocket launcher, so Spencer fills in for our intrepid radio host. Kevin "Yes, and..."s himself out of improv classes, we take a break with Mountain Dew that gives off hints of rose water, then look at VR accessories that kinda suck. Spencer looks for a job, and we debate if liking meta humor is a bad thing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, we're trying something new: instead of our usual Next City episode, we're sharing the pilot for “Not My Narrative,” an experimental mini-series that not only debunks harmful myths holding back progress but also elevates the counter-narratives driving positive momentum.In this debut episode of Not My Narrative, Host Lucas Grindley, Executive Director of Next City, takes listeners on an examination of one of America's most pernicious myths: the “pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps” mantra that claims anyone who works hard enough can escape poverty. We trace its origins from 19th-century satire to Reagan, Gingrich, and Clinton, and we'll hear from practitioners who say the “bootstrap” story is quietly determining who merits public assistance, who deserves our sympathy, and who must simply fend for themselves.To unravel its origins and expose its consequences, Luis Ortega, founder of Storytellers for Change, draws on his background in education and community organizing to explain how the bootstraps narrative is woven into our schools, our public discourse, and even our own self-perception. He challenges us to see that when achievement is framed solely as personal grit, it erases entire ecosystems of support—families, neighbors, networks—that actually make success possible.Plus, we revisit two Next City interviews that show what “it takes a village” truly means, as communities care for one another. In Jackson, Mississippi, Aisha Nyandoro, co-founder of Magnolia Mother's Trust, shares how her guaranteed-income pilot for Black mothers demonstrates that material support and dignity go hand in hand. And we revisit a conversation out of Portland, Oregon, where Lisa Larson, vice-chair of Dignity Village, recounts her journey from sleeping on the streets to helping govern a community for the unhoused. If you believe in the power of narrative change—and want more episodes that debunk harmful myths while elevating real-world solutions—please email us at info@nextcity.org and let's think about ways to keep this work going.
Rudy Parra is a Mechatronics & Lab Technician at GridFlow, where he supports the development of next-generation lithium-sulfur flow batteries. He specializes in IoT integration, rapid prototyping, and lab operations, helping bridge the gap between R&D and real-world energy solutions. With a background in robotics and automation, Rudy is passionate about building systems that are efficient, scalable, and safe for the grid of tomorrow. This episode is sponsored by the coaching company of the host, Paul Zelizer. Consider a Strategy Session if you can use support growing your impact business. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Rudy Parra on LinkedIn CNM Ingenuity Deep Dive Bootcamps GridFlow site NM Tech Talks site Atomic 66 site Techqueria New Mexico NMClimate on LinkedIn Black in Tech site VetsinTech site Rubber Ducks NM on LinkedIn Paul's Strategy Sessions Pitch an Awarepreneurs episode
Yoni Appelbaum, deputy executive editor of The Atlantic, makes his Remnant debut to discuss his new book, Stuck: How the Privileged and the Propertied Broke the Engine of American Opportunity. Jonah Goldberg and Yoni discuss America's unique social and geographic mobility, the tricky history of tenements, and the dirty laundry of zoning. Show Notes: —Order Yoni's book, Stuck: How the Privileged and the Propertied Broke the Engine of American Opportunity The Remnant is a production of The Dispatch, a digital media company covering politics, policy, and culture from a non-partisan, conservative perspective. To access all of The Dispatch's offerings—including Jonah's G-File newsletter, regular livestreams, and other members-only content—click here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today's show sponsored by: Goldco — 10% Instant Match in BONUS SILVER, for qualified JLP Show listeners Learn more at https://JesseLovesGold.com or 855-644-GOLD Punchie's coffee ☕ — https://jesseleepeterson.shop/ JLP Wed 2-5-25 HOUR 1 Trump: We'll own Gaza. Sweden shooting. Want my gf free. // HOUR 2 Needy for gf. Beyon-Z's not country! We'll be like Rome! // HOUR 3 Manhood Hour: Booker T Washington, Malcolm X. "Bootstraps"? // Biblical Question: Is anger a part of intelligence or stupidity? Men's Forum tomorrow, first Thur, Feb 6, 7pm, BOND, L.A. https://rebuildingtheman.com/events/ ⏰ TIMESTAMPS (0:00:00) HOUR 1 (0:03:05) Crazy experts, Anger (0:08:05) Trump… own Gaza! (0:20:05) Afraid of other human beings (0:26:45) School shooting in Sweden (0:30:50) Punchie's coffee…GoldCo (0:35:45) Anger, 13th street body (0:39:45) ADAM, AZ, 1st: Want it to work with gf (0:55:00) NEWS (1:00:55) HOUR 2 (1:01:45) ADAM: Afraid to forgive mom; Give gf a chance? (1:22:15) Supers: Baby dunk, Beyon-Z "country" … (1:32:25) Beyonce won for "Country"?! Supers… (1:40:15) JOSH, GA, BQ, doing stupid things (1:44:00) JOSH, CA, 1st: Meeting a woman the right way? (1:49:15) CHRIS, GA: Foreign alliances and biblical Israel (1:55:00) NEWS… HOUR 3 (2:02:00) Manhood Hour (2:04:00) Light, Salt: Men, wish others well. (2:09:20) Booker T Washington: Take care of business (2:11:25) Malcolm X… Not a victim (2:18:44) COLANDRA, Nashville, BQ (2:19:40) TYLER, IA, BQ, Cart Return (2:30:45) Announcements (2:33:25) GABE, Austin, BQ. Why not drop anger? Portrait? (2:38:05) RONNIE, OH, MLK: "Pull yourself up" is cruel? Get up and walk! (2:48:45) Supers: Country was white! Forgiveness. (2:55:10) Closing… Get on the straight and narrow
ABC#071, part 1 Lynwood Blount was a municipal judge who worked his way to the top, including night law school at Temple. He was elected judge after a successful 20-year law career. He was also President of Mercy-Douglass Hospital during its waning years. He did not suffer fools lightly. Along the way he picked up the nickname "Count Blount." He also served as President of Mercy-Douglass Hospital in its final days, so you can learn about medical education for African American Philadelphia residents.
It's a dead man's party. That's what podcasts are called on Lunar, where we're realizing no underclass exists in Meribia, understanding Mel only trusts beastmen with weapons, verifying interspecies erotica, debating ho ho ho vs bwa ha ha, fist fighting a Hero, slandering lawyers and accountants, cringing at crushing on Jessica, locking tighter than a tenement in South Central, leaving a dent in your skull, slipping on drool, becoming victimized, getting son'd by Mel, dealing with The Guild of Brett, pushing buttons to make bridges, slaying a dragon, and having no doubt that she is the one. Now you have a friend in the Dragon Diamond business. 00:00 Intro 03:02 Mel's Mansion 12:48 Hell Mel 18:35 Fighting Mel 21:54 Mel's Mansion II 33:22 Selling The Diamond 39:03 We've Been Had 44:08 Merbian Sewers 50:14 Water Dragon 54:41 Dross' Humiliation Ritual 59:49 Real Net 01:05:56 Outro Patreon: patreon.com/retroam Bluesky: @retrogradeamnesia.bsky.social YouTube: www.youtube.com/@RetrogradeAmnesia E-Mail: podcast@retrogradeamnesia.com Website: www.retrogradeamnesia.com
There are all sorts of ways our culture pressures us as individuals to "pull ourselves up by our bootstraps," but it's time to give that up. What might be an alternative that naturally takes its place? Maybe the sort of interwoven community where we can be ourselves and deeply contribute!
Fargo Flash previews the Gopher Football game this Saturday, Tom Pelissero joins to preview the NFL action this weekend
Fargo Flash previews the Gopher Football game this Saturday, Tom Pelissero joins to preview the NFL action this weekend
If you want to know what matters most to your elected leaders, the answer is found not in their rhetoric, but in their choices during the budget making process. When the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities was founded in 1981, the mission was to understand how federal spending, or the lack of it, impacted low income Americans, particularly their ability to access healthcare and housing. It also provided policymakers with alternative strategies for meeting human needs with fiscal integrity. As Peggy Bailey, Executive Vice President of Programs and Policy shares on this episode of Power Station, the Center not only brings rigor to federal budget analysis it focuses on and is a resource to state budget making as well. And its internal process has evolved too. All Center departments operate from a justice framework, with staff holding themselves and each other accountable to shared values, from centering racial equity to including those with lived experience in their policy development. Peggy brings her all, including what she has experienced first-hand, to ensuring that public policies and their implementation in the real world uplift those who are too often left behind. She is a true changemaker. Hear her!
Get comfy in your seats, grab your wooder ice and popcorn because you won't wanna miss this one! Tonight's episode of 302BIRDS is packed with everything Philly sports and beyond. We start off by discussing how the Phillies need to find themselves in the middle of a tough seven-game stretch against the Atlanta Braves. Then, we give an exciting preview of the upcoming Eagles/Vikings game and what we're expecting to see on the field. We'll also talk about the 76ers' newest roster additions and how they could shape the team's future. Next, we dive into the Flyers' dysfunction surrounding the whole Ryan Johnson situation and what that means moving forward. Lastly, we break down the intense linebacker battle heating up between Trotter and Nakobe Dean, plus OH SO MUCH MORE! Stay connected with us on: - TikTok: [https://www.tiktok.com/@302birds](https://www.tiktok.com/@302birds) - Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/302birds](https://www.instagram.com/302birds) - Website: [https://linktr.ee/302birds](https://linktr.ee/302birds) - Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/302Birds](https://www.facebook.com/302Birds) - Spotify Podcasts: [https://open.spotify.com/show/1FsLdnsXbYhTBrzib1g7p0?si=4e2cdbf6d39941da](https://open.spotify.com/show/1FsLdnsXbYhTBrzib1g7p0?si=4e2cdbf6d39941da) - Twitter: [https://twitter.com/302Birds](https://twitter.com/302Birds) Join the conversation with these hashtags: #Phillies #philadelphiaeagles #philadelphiasports #phillysports #NFLpreseason #Vikings #Eagles #NFL2024 #preseasonfootball #philadelphia76ers #philadelphiaphillies This episode is made possible by our amazing sponsors: - 302HALLOWEEN Collection: Check out our exciting new 302HALLOWEEN Tees, featuring all four Philly mascots reppin' the Halloween spirit! Grab yours here: [https://www.bonfire.com/302halloween-tees/?productType=1d7eda58-3af0-46b5-a3fa-1fe8158a9fbe](https://www.bonfire.com/302halloween-tees/?productType=1d7eda58-3af0-46b5-a3fa-1fe8158a9fbe) - EAT AT EL DIABLO: Indulge in mouthwatering flavors at [https://www.eldiabloburritos.com/](https://www.eldiabloburritos.com/) - NICK'S PIZZA: Satisfy your pizza cravings with amazing local pizza from Nick's Pizza of Wilmington, DE. Check them out on Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/Nickspizza302/](https://www.facebook.com/Nickspizza302/) - KLONDIKE KATES: Enjoy delicious bites and drinks at Klondike Kates on Main St in Newark, DE. Visit them on Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/KatesNewark](https://www.facebook.com/KatesNewark) Remember, fair use applies under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. We strive to provide insightful commentary and engaging content while respecting the rights of all. Thank you for being part of the 302BIRDS community.
It's still popular to prize students who have “grit,” who overcome tough odds to succeed. A book by Alissa Quart called “Bootstrapped: Liberating Ourselves from the American Dream,” looks at why this narrative is so hard to shake — and proposes more community-minded alternatives that could improve equity. This episode first ran in 2022, as the final installment of our Bootstraps series on who gets the best opportunities in American education. For more on the series, see: https://www.edsurge.com/research/guides/bootstraps-a-podcast-series
The Rhodes Scholarship was designed to forge a network of people who would go on to rule the world. So who gets this opportunity? And how is the oldest and best-known graduate scholarship dealing with the legacy of its founder, who used ruthless and racist practices to build the diamond empire that funded the effort? This originally ran in 2022, as part of our Bootstraps series on who gets what educational opportunities in America. Find show notes here:https://www.edsurge.com/news/2022-03-02-power-prestige-and-the-world-s-most-famous-scholarship
The SAT can feel very different to different students. While it can give any college applicant stress, some low-income and minority students see it as evidence that selective colleges don't want them. Can the rise of test-optional policies lead to a new, more equitable era of college admissions? | Guest reporter: Eric Hoover, of The Chronicle of Higher Education | This originally ran in late 2021 as part of our Bootstraps podcast series.
Our current grading system can be a way for kids to prove themselves and win college scholarships, or admission to selective colleges. It can also be a barrier, in sometimes surprising ways. What might a world without letter grades and GPAs look like? This first ran in 2021.
Sometime early in elementary school, kids are put on one of two paths: regular or gifted. Where did this idea come from? The answer goes back more than a 100 years, to a once-famous scholar named Lewis Terman. And it turns out his legacy, and the future of gifted programs, are still very much under debate. This first ran in 2021.
What a debate about the admissions process at one of the best public high schools in the country says about who should get what in education. This first ran in 2021. Find out more on this episode and the rest of the series at: https://www.edsurge.com/research/guides/bootstraps-a-podcast-series
What the odd and surprising history of 'pulling yourself up by your bootstraps' says about educational equity. This is the first episode in our Bootstraps podcast series on merit, myths and education. This first ran in 2021.
Conrad Shaw and Scott Santens, founders of the Income To Support All Foundation (ITSA), share their journey in supporting various UBI initiatives, highlighting personal stories and the challenges faced, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Does the U.S. economy generate enough wealth per capita to eradicate poverty through UBI? What happened to the Child Tax Credit, which had cut childhood poverty in half? Understanding UBI's benefits comes from experiencing it firsthand, contrasting it with welfare programs, and anticipating the massive economic shifts that Artificial Intelligence will affect in both white and blue collar jobs. Explore Conrad and Scott's experiences in creating the Bootstraps documentary series, which chronicles families receiving UBI and showcases its positive impacts over several years. Lastly, learn about Comingle, a mutual aid platform where community members support each other financially based on weekly income fluctuations. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/N-7zQ2gZI8A Follow Conrad Shaw: https://twitter.com/oneconradshaw | https://www.comingle.us/ Follow Scott Santens: https://twitter.com/scottsantens | https://www.instagram.com/scottsantens Follow Andrew Yang: https://twitter.com/andrewyang | https://andrewyang.com Get 50% off Factor at https://factormeals.com/yang50 Get an extra 3 months free at https://expressvpn.com/yang Get 20% off + 2 free pillows at https://helixsleep.com/yang code helixpartner20 ---- Subscribe to Forward: Apple — https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1508035243 Spotify — https://open.spotify.com/show/25cFfnG3lGuypTerKDxKia To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
TOPIC: GRANT TN: "big fan, your opinion on Kanye West?", Sonia Sotomayor/Clarence Thomas, Guaranteed Income programs, TY OH: "how will trump help america?", SARAH TX: "my husband Leo called earlier re: pet names", BRIAN FL: "how to have a boy first?", DANIEL GA: "a verse about individuality", SUPERCHATS, HAKE NEWS
TOPIC: Trump Super Tuesday results, Sonia Sotomayor compliments Clarence Thomas, DAVID CA: "trump VP pick comment", SUPERCHATS, LEO TX: "question about what my wife calls me", TONY PA: "I will be voting for Donald Trump", RONNIE OH: "big fan, your opinion on Kanye West?", HAKE NEWS
TOPIC: Based African Lady, Miami spring break, Race Hoax from 2016, Six Flags over Georgia Mess, Omaha gas station attack, Melbourne Pier Attack, Men Needing a woman, no such thing as an equal partner, All black bench in New York, Trump on Christianity, SUPERCHATS
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