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Congress is on the cusp of passing a sweeping housing bill. The House looks to take up the National Security-State and Energy-Water spending bills. And Senate GOP appropriators try to go it alone as they start fiscal 2027 markups. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, June 22, 2026.
Senators hope to fast-track Trump's new DNI pick. A Senate committee marks up a college sports bill this week. And the Trump administration faces a deadline to confirm it won't act on an "anti-weaponization" fund. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, June 15, 2026.
A key surveillance authority lapses today. The House eyes late June for NDAA floor votes. And senators push for chip export controls. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, June 12, 2026.
This episode hosts David Higgins to explore the complex and often misunderstood boundary between military operations, humanitarian action, and political stabilisation in modern conflict environments. Drawing on two decades of experience across the British Army, the United Nations, and geopolitical advisory work, we look at how different institutions operating in the same space can interpret the same conflict in fundamentally different ways, and how those differences shape outcomes on the ground. The discussion focuses on David's central argument that civil-military coordination frameworks still assume a level of clarity between “military space” and “civilian space” that increasingly no longer exists. While these distinctions were difficult but workable in conflicts such as Afghanistan and Somalia, today's environments are far more fragmented, with blurred front lines, overlapping actors, and the increasing weaponisation of civilian domains including information, finance, and infrastructure. As a result, coordination mechanisms risk becoming procedurally active but operationally ineffective. David Higgins is Head of Humanitarian Access and Civil-Military Coordination in Somalia for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). He has spent twenty years working across the civil-military boundary as a British Army infantry officer, humanitarian and stabilisation adviser, and geopolitical analyst, including deployments to Helmand Province and roles across Afghanistan, Iraq, and East Africa. He previously served as Head of Geopolitical Analysis at M&C Saatchi World Services and as a reservist Lieutenant Colonel with the British Army's 77th Brigade, and holds a research master's focused on hybrid threats and UK national security. The International Risk Podcast brings you conversations with global experts, frontline practitioners, and senior decision-makers who are shaping how we understand and respond to international risk. From geopolitical instability and organised crime to cybersecurity threats and hybrid warfare, each episode explores the forces transforming our world and what smart leaders must do to navigate them. Whether you're a board member, policymaker, or risk professional, The International Risk Podcast delivers actionable insights, sharp analysis, and real-world stories that matter. Dominic Bowen is the host of The International Risk Podcast and Europe's leading expert on international risk and crisis management. As Head of Strategic Advisory and Partner at one of Europe's leading risk management consulting firms, Dominic advises CEOs, boards, and senior executives across the continent on how to prepare for uncertainty and act with intent. He has spent decades working in war zones, advising multinational companies, and supporting Europe's business leaders. Dominic is the go-to business advisor for leaders navigating risk, crisis, and strategy; trusted for his clarity, calmness under pressure, and ability to turn volatility into competitive advantage. Dominic equips today's business leaders with the insight and confidence to lead through disruption and deliver sustained strategic advantage. Subscribe for all our updates! Tell us what you liked! Tell us what you liked!
The House considers the $70 billion immigration reconciliation bill. Congress faces a Friday FISA deadline. And Senate appropriators take up more fiscal 2027 spending bills. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, June 8, 2026.
The Senate passed the budget bill for immigration enforcement early this morning. The Labor-HHS-Education and Homeland Security spending bills get subcommittee markups. And Trump endorses the Senate bill to overhaul college sports. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, June 5, 2026.
Senate Republicans try again to pass their reconciliation bill for immigration enforcement. An Agriculture spending is bill set for House floor action. And the Senate tries to address name, image and likeness regulations for college athletes. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, June 1, 2026.
Cody Whelan was miserable.Feeling purposeless in his geology career, he came home after work every day tired, irritable, and wondering why he was still putting himself through this. He dreamt of a different life for himself, a life centered on purpose, service, and connection. And after seven years of business ideas gnawing at him, he finally decided to pull the plug on his stable career so he could throw himself into the unstable waters of entrepreneurship.Enter Treeline Outfitters: Portsmouth's home for high-quality sustainable outdoor gear, delicious local beer, and genuine connection with like-minded human beings.Since opening their doors in February 2024, Treeline has felt the full force of the community coming out to support them, which shines through in their weekly run club, which now attracts between 60-100 people every Thursday night.From the taproom of Treeline Outfitters in the West End of Portsmouth, Cody and his wife Emily Kwesell sit down with host Troy Farkas to discuss why Cody began to resent his lucrative geology career, why it took him so long to take the leap, where the initial idea for Treeline came from, the explosive growth of run club, navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, and much more.To learn more about Treeline's gear, beer, and events, visit TreelineOutfittersCo.com or follow them on Instagram @treeline_outfitters.CHAPTERS:Treeline's role in the 'Seacoast Stories' origin story (00:00)Why Cody started hating his job (07:00)What pushed them to start Treeline Outfitters (19:44)SPONSORS: Budget Blinds + Dermatology & Skin Health (30:00)How Treeline chooses their gear and beer (32:40)The growth of run club (42:14)Why Cody feels wealthier than ever (49:52)SPONSORS:To get started on a path toward better financial investment, email our friend David Higgins david.higgins@wellsfargoadvisors.com! He's a Portsmouth legend, and you won't regret it.Dermatology & Skin Health: Get 15% off botox, filler, and laser treatments at all DSH locations by mentioning "Seacoast Stories" at checkout for the REST OF 2026! UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: The club that's regularly attracting ~100 people heads to Portland, Maine, on Wednesday, June 3! We also head back to Hampton, N.H., on Wednesday, June 17. Book your seat at the table here.AFFILIATE LINKS:3 Bridges Yoga: NEW yoga students can unlock a stellar deal of $45 for unlimited classes at the Seacoast's top yoga studio for a month! Visit 3BridgesYoga.com, select the "Seacoast Stories" special, and type in promo code SEACOASTSTORIES to activate the deal.Studio One: Use the code COASTIE26 at checkout on the Studio One website to unlock a 2-week trial of UNLIMITED spin, yoga, strength, pilates, and barre classes for a special price of $25 for "Seacoast Stories" listeners ONLY!
Lawmakers abruptly left for recess amid a fight over an 'anti-weaponization' fund. Democrats push for Cuba war powers votes. A House Democrat wants to force a vote on a major veterans benefits bill. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, May 22, 2026.
Ankati Day is arguably the top yoga teacher on the Seacoast.A Maine native, the 42-year-old instructor graduated yoga teacher training 15 years ago in the jungles of Costa Rica. After living in the forest, she moved back to the Seacoast in 2015 to pursue yoga as a full-time career.These days, she currently teaches at 3 Bridges Yoga, Shilo Farm, and Studio One. Additionally, she leads worldwide yoga retreats and hosts ecstatic dance at Four Bodies Wellness every month.In the Season 4 Finale, Day rejoins the show in another installment of "The Follow-Up," where popular past guests return to the show.From the cozy confines of Shilo Farm in Eliot, Maine, Day and host Troy Farkas discuss the lost art of communication, how the 21st century is disconnecting us from our bodies, misconceptions of yoga teachers, and where the healing industry has it wrong these days.Plus, why Studio One stands above all other Seacoast fitness establishments, and an inside look into the magic of ecstatic dance!To learn more about Day, her teachings, and her fall yoga retreat in Jackson, Maine, you can visit AnkatiDay.com.EPISODE CHAPTERS:Ankati's backstory (00:00)What birds can teach us about proper communication (04:25)Troy's reservations with teaching yoga (18:30)SPONSORS: Dermatology & Skin Health + Portsmouth's David Higgins (35:06)Why teaching at Studio One is special (38:15)How to build the right fitness routine for you (44:27)The "bizarre" ecstatic dance she leads (49:56)Thank you for listening in Season 4! (59:00)SPONSORS:To get started on a path toward better financial investment, email our friend David Higgins david.higgins@wellsfargoadvisors.com! He's a Portsmouth legend, and you won't regret it.Dermatology & Skin Health: Get 15% off botox, filler, and laser treatments at all DSH locations by mentioning "Seacoast Stories" at checkout for the REST OF 2026! UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: The club that's regularly attracting ~100 people heads to Portland, Maine, on Wednesday, June 3! Book your seat at the table here.AFFILIATE LINKS:3 Bridges Yoga: NEW yoga students can unlock a stellar deal of $45 for unlimited classes at the Seacoast's top yoga studio for a month! Visit 3BridgesYoga.com, select the "Seacoast Stories" special, and type in promo code SEACOASTSTORIES to activate the deal.Studio One: Use the code COASTIE26 at checkout on the Studio One website to unlock a 2-week trial of UNLIMITED spin, yoga, strength, pilates, and barre classes for a special price of $25 for "Seacoast Stories" listeners ONLY!Investment and insurance products are Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency, Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate, Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested.Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Clearing Services (WFCS), LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. WFCS uses the trade name Wells Fargo Advisors. 1 North Jefferson, St. Louis, MO 63103.
Pediatrician and public health advocate Dr. David Higgins discusses the importance of vaccine confidence, trusted health communication, and how healthcare providers can better engage with adolescents and families. In this episode, he shares insights from his work in pediatric medicine and public health while exploring practical ways to build trust and improve vaccine conversations.
The Judiciary Committee's portion of the reconciliation bill gets parliamentary scrutiny. House appropriators take a first crack at an Energy-Water funding bill. And the housing debate gets floor time next week. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, May 15, 2026.
The first spending bill for fiscal 2027 is readied for the House floor. Democrats plan a procedural objection to ballroom security funds in the Republican-written reconciliation package. And the House looks to take up a biofuels measure it did not pass before last week's recess. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, May 11, 2026.
***SEACOAST STORIES LIVE HAPPENS THIS THURSDAY! SECURE YOUR TICKETS FOR THE STONE CHURCH SHOW HERE***Jennifer Wilder is always leveling up.Today, the highly-respected owner of two beloved Seacoast brands, LANEY & LU and Ginger Fox, rejoins host Troy Farkas to take us inside a hectic 2026 for her businesses. Plus, she reveals some breaking news regarding the LANEY & LU offerings, her ambitious plans for opening more restaurants, and what she's cooking up for LANEY & LU's 2026 Summer Wellness Series!Then, Jen takes the mic to grill Troy about Season 4 of "Seacoast Stories," where the two discuss his plans for building a "21st century media organization," his plans to hire staff soon, and the explosion of Seacoast Stories Dinner Club. Plus, inside the Seacoast dating scene, and a rapid fire round which includes some HOT takes.To support Jen, you can visit LANEY & LU in Portsmouth or Ginger Fox in Stratham, N.H. To take advantage of her business services, learn more at TheJenniferWilder.com/SeacoastStories.EPISODE CHAPTERS:SS Live at Stone Church! (00:00)A hectic start to 2026 for Jen's businesses (01:07)Jen's ambitious future plans + reflecting on closing the Exeter location (15:00)SPONSOR: Investment advisor David Higgins (26:14)The expansion of "Seacoast Stories" in Season 4 (28:00)The Seacoast dating scene + Seacoast Singles! (44:30)SPONSOR: Dermatology & Skin Health (50:15)The growth of Seacoast Stories Dinner Club (51:45)What's next? (54:52)Rapid fire! (01:01:38)SPONSORS:To get started on a path toward better financial investment, email our friend David Higgins david.higgins@wellsfargoadvisors.com! He's a Portsmouth legend, and you won't regret it.Dermatology & Skin Health: Get 15% off botox, filler, and laser treatments at all DSH locations by mentioning "Seacoast Stories" at checkout for the REST OF 2026! UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories LIVE pres. by Chinburg Properties: On Thursday, May 7, the Seacoast's No. 1 podcast hits Stone Church in Newmarket, N.H.! Space is limited. Secure your tickets here.Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: Wed., May 20 in Portsmouth's West End! Sign up here.AFFILIATE LINKS:3 Bridges Yoga: NEW yoga students can unlock a stellar deal of $45 for unlimited classes at the Seacoast's top yoga studio for a month! Visit 3BridgesYoga.com, select the "Seacoast Stories" special, and type in promo code SEACOASTSTORIES to activate the deal.Studio One: Use the code COASTIE26 at checkout on the Studio One website to unlock a 2-week trial of UNLIMITED spin, yoga, strength, pilates, and barre classes for a special price of $25 for "Seacoast Stories" listeners ONLY!Investment and insurance products are Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency, Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate, Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested.Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Clearing Services (WFCS), LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. WFCS uses the trade name Wells Fargo Advisors. 1 North Jefferson, St. Louis, MO 63103.
Buckle up for a jam-packed week in the House. The weekend shooting at the White House Correspondents' Dinner raises pressure on Republicans' effort to fund DHS. And more budget hearings and appropriations markups are on tap. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, April 27, 2026.
Vaccine policy in the US is something of an ideological battleground. Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr is a vaccine sceptic, and since taking office he has attempted to remake US vaccine policy. In March a judge blocked his proposal to cut the number of jabs that are recommended for kids. At the same time, last year saw the worst measles outbreak in the US in decades. There were more than 2000 cases last year, and three people died. There have been more than 1500 cases so far in 2026. There's a lot going on, so it's possible the public's views on vaccination are shifting. A new poll published by online news site Politico added a big claim into the mix. According to the headline “more Americans doubt vaccine safety than trust it”. But is that what the survey actually found? Dr David Higgins, a paediatrician and public health assistant professor who writes a Substack called Community Immunity, explains why he believes the headline is misleading. If you've seen a number in the news you think we should take a look at, email moreorless@bbc.co.uk Presenter: Charlotte McDonald Series producer: Tom Colls Production co-ordinator: Brenda Brown Sound mix: Neil Churchill Editor: Richard Vadon
House Republicans will try another FISA play — still without a warrant requirement. An inspector general will investigate the Justice Department's handling of the Epstein files. And an amendment to allow year-round sales of E15 fuel would hitch a ride on the farm bill. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, April 24, 2026.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum kicks off another busy week of budget hearings. The nominee to be the next chair of the Federal Reserve gets a confirmation hearing while the current chair remains under investigation. And who will replace Gonzales on Appropriations? David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, April 20, 2026.
Appropriators begin marking up the first fiscal 2027 spending bills. Senate Republicans hope to release a budget resolution next week. And the HHS budget request gets more scrutiny as RFK Jr. testifies on the Hill. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, April 17, 2026.
Democrats plan to force more votes on Iran war powers resolutions. The head of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission testifies about his agency's request for a funding increase. And more Cabinet officials will be on the Hill as the fiscal 2027 budget season gets into full swing. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, April 13, 2026.
The Senate breaks a logjam on DHS funding. For fiscal 2027, a number of factors could lead to another appropriations breakdown. And Congress' America250 commission sets up nationwide events to celebrate the nation's 250th birthday. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, March 27, 2026.
Senators continue debate on voter ID legislation. Sen. Markwayne Mullin gets a confirmation vote. And the Supreme Court hears oral arguments on defining "Election Day." David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, March 23, 2026.
While throwing epic events, going viral on social media, and running a successful weekly market, Alyssa Pine was quietly handling something the public never knew about.In her third appearance on "Seacoast Stories," the 32-year-old Live Freely Market founder speaks for the first time about the heartbreak and grief she's battled since finding out a devastating piece of news two days before throwing the first Live Freely Fest in August 2024.Plus, she tells host Troy Farkas some exciting news regarding Live Freely Fest 2026, recent developments at the Live Freely Market, winning the Stay Work Play Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2025, must-do summer activities in her beloved Hampton, business lessons learned from her father, Shane Pine (The Community Oven, Shane's Texas Pit, etc.), and more.To check out the Live Freely Market, you can pay Alyssa and her vendors a visit at 356 Lafayette Rd. in Hampton. The market is open Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. SPONSORS:To get started on a path toward better financial investment, email our friend David Higgins david.higgins@wellsfargoadvisors.com! He's a Portsmouth legend, and you won't regret it.Girl Scouts of the Green & White Mountains! Get your girl started on her next adventure today by visiting GirlScoutsGWM.org.Visit Budget Blinds of the Seacoast for local windows, shades, & creating your cozy Seacoast dream home!UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club pres. by Market Square Bakehouse: Friday, April 3, in Amesbury, Mass.! Sign up here.Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: Wednesday, April 15, in Manchester, N.H.! Sign up here.AFFILIATE LINKS:3 Bridges Yoga: NEW yoga students can unlock a stellar deal of $45 for unlimited classes at the Seacoast's top yoga studio for a month! Visit 3BridgesYoga.com, select the "Seacoast Stories" special, and type in promo code SEACOASTSTORIES to activate the deal.Studio One: Use the code COASTIE26 at checkout on the Studio One website to unlock a 1-month trial of UNLIMITED spin, yoga, strength, pilates, and barre classes for a special price of $25 for "Seacoast Stories" listeners ONLY!EPISODE CHAPTERS:Alyssa's backstory + our friendship (00:00)Relocating Live Freely Fest 2026 to Applecrest (05:48)Live Freely Market's explosion on social media (15:32)SPONSORS: Financial advisor David Higgins + Girl Scouts of the Green & White Mountains (25:42)The grief & heartbreak Alyssa faced while building the Live Freely Market (29:00)Winning the Entrepreneur of the Year award last year (45:15)SPONSOR: Budget Blinds of the Seacoast (51:10)Changes happening at the Live Freely Market (52:35)Must-do Hampton activities this summer (58:30)Investment and insurance products are Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency, Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate, Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested.Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Clearing Services (WFCS), LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. WFCS uses the trade name Wells Fargo Advisors. 1 North Jefferson, St. Louis, MO 63103.
Sen. Markwayne Mullin's move to the Homeland Security Department would open a "cardinal" slot. Democrats dig in on DHS policy changes. And House lawmakers reject an Iran war powers resolution. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, March 6, 2026.
War powers votes could happen in both chambers this week. Senators will kick off work on a major housing package with a procedural vote today. And the Supreme Court weighs the legality of a gun ban for drug users. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, March 2, 2026.
The town of Rye wants to charge for parking along Route 1A.High school seniors Aidan Chin and Lorax Reed have a big problem with that.In their first sit-down interview since releasing this viral video criticizing Rye's intentions to pay for beach access, the two youthful faces of the Free Rye Parking movement join host Troy Farkas in this bonus episode to discuss why they started this fight against the town, how they've gained 10,000 signatures on their petition, the impact of their viral video, why they believe in youth activism, and whether they believe they'll ultimately be successful.Plus, the guys fill Troy in on the Seacoast youth dating scene and why Snapchat is still so popular with the kids!To support the boys' movement, you can sign their petition here, and/or follow them on Instagram @freeryeparking.SPONSORS:To get started on a path toward better financial investment, email our friend David Higgins david.higgins@wellsfargoadvisors.com! He's a Portsmouth legend, and you won't regret it.Visit Budget Blinds of the Seacoast for local windows, shades, & creating your cozy Seacoast dream home!Sage Portsmouth: Portsmouth's newest luxury condominiums are here! Inquire and book a showing here.AFFILIATE LINKS:3 Bridges Yoga: NEW yoga students can unlock a stellar deal of $45 for unlimited classes at the Seacoast's top yoga studio for a month! Visit 3BridgesYoga.com, select the "Seacoast Stories" special, and type in promo code SEACOASTSTORIES to activate the deal.Studio One: Use the code COASTIE26 at checkout on the Studio One website to unlock a 1-month trial of UNLIMITED spin, yoga, strength, pilates, and barre classes for a special price of $25 for "Seacoast Stories" listeners ONLY!UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: Wednesday, March 4, in Dover, NH! Sign up here.Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: Friday, April 3, in Amesbury, MA! Sign up here.EPISODE CHAPTERS:The viral video (00:00)Favorite activities growing up on the Seacoast (03:50)Why the boys started this fight (08:10)SPONSOR: Budget Blinds of the Seacoast (21:05)The viral video and petition (22:35)The latest on the fight against Rye (32:36)SPONSORS: David Higgins & Sage Portsmouth (39:20)Their biggest fears with paid parking (41:55)Social media use among teens + Seacoast dating scene (47:56)Will the boys' movement be successful? (01:01:40)Investment and insurance products are Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency, Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate, Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested.Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Clearing Services (WFCS), LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. WFCS uses the trade name Wells Fargo Advisors. 1 North Jefferson, St. Louis, MO 63103.
Former President Bill Clinton testifies behind closed doors about Jeffrey Epstein. There's a push to increase security on SNAP payment cards. And a Senate committee looks to overhaul the Toxic Substances Control Act. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, Feb. 27, 2026.
Trump will deliver his State of the Union tomorrow amid tariff uncertainty. The House could vote in relation to an Iran war powers resolution in the coming days. And there's been little movement on negotiations as the DHS shutdown continues. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, Feb. 23, 2026.
The Department of Homeland Security is expected to partially shut down as lawmakers leave for recess without a deal. A long-awaited five-year farm bill is expected to be released. And House Republicans want to reverse their earmarks ban. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, Feb. 13, 2026.
Kevin Breen and Mariah Kimball have a unique relationship.High school sweethearts since the Winnicunnett days, they've experienced a tumultuous 18 years of being together.Yet, after 13 years of marriage, they say their marriage is the best (and hottest) it's ever been.Now, they're on a mission to help struggling Seacoast couples feel the same way.In a special Valentine's Day bonus episode, Kevin & Mariah sit down with host Troy Farkas to discuss the crazy personal evolutions they've undergone, why it's actually not a crime for a man to embrace his masculine side in 2026, the power of bringing men together, why it's O.K. for women to lean into their "swirly" feminine energy, the (strange) intimacy workshops they're hosting on the Seacoast, and much more.To learn more about Kevin's men group, you can message him on Instagram @_kevinbreen. For Mariah's offerings, visit her Instagram page @mariahgkimball.SPONSORS:Visit Budget Blinds of the Seacoast for local windows, shades, & creating your cozy Seacoast dream home!Sage Portsmouth: Portsmouth's newest luxury condominiums are here! Inquire and book a showing here.To get started on a path toward better financial investment, email our friend David Higgins david.higgins@wellsfargoadvisors.com! He's a Portsmouth legend, and you won't regret it.AFFILIATE LINKS:3 Bridges Yoga: NEW yoga students can unlock a stellar deal of $45 for unlimited classes at the Seacoast's top yoga studio for a month! Visit 3BridgesYoga.com, select the "Seacoast Stories" special, and type in promo code SEACOASTSTORIES to activate the deal.Studio One: Use the code COASTIE26 at checkout on the Studio One website to unlock a 1-month trial of UNLIMITED spin, yoga, strength, pilates, and barre classes for a special price of $25 for "Seacoast Stories" listeners ONLY!UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: Wednesday, February 18, in Portland, ME! Sign up here.Seacoast Stories Dinner Club: Wednesday, March 4, in Dover, NH! Sign up here.EPISODE CHAPTERS:Why Kevin and Mariah married each other (00:00)Mariah's personal transformation that forever changed their marriage (08:20)How Kevin learned what masculinity actually is (28:32)SPONSORS: Investment advisor David Higgins & Budget Blinds of the SeacoastWhy all men actually aren't horrible people (34:10)Kevin's men's group and how it's changed his life (43:05)Why men need men and women need women (55:52)SPONSOR: Sage Portsmouth (01:00:22)Troy's experience at their intimacy workshop (01:02:00)Investment and insurance products are Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency, Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate, Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested.Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Clearing Services (WFCS), LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. WFCS uses the trade name Wells Fargo Advisors. 1 North Jefferson, St. Louis, MO 63103.
A focus on immigration enforcement intensifies on the Hill, as a spending deadline and high-profile hearings await. A retooled voter ID bill heads to the House floor. And a House panel marks up a first-responders emergency communications bill. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, Feb. 9, 2026.
DHS funding negotiations hit a logjam. Some senators are reluctant to again use reconciliation to boost defense funding. And the race is too close to call in New Jersey's Democratic primary for the special election to fill Gov. Mikie Sherrill's former seat in Congress. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, Feb. 6, 2026.
A partial government shutdown is underway, and the House faces a politically complicated vote on the spending package that would end it. A bipartisan duo makes a quiet bid for an Iran war powers resolution. And the nomination of Kevin Warsh to be Fed chair faces an uphill battle. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, Feb. 2, 2026.
Another partial government shutdown could begin tonight, though it may be brief. Senate Democrats have mixed reactions to a GOP health subsidies extension draft. And House Republicans make another voter ID push. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, Jan. 30, 2026.
A partial government shutdown is possible as Democrats decry this weekend's shooting in Minnesota. And due to the snow, Senators have one fewer day in town to tackle a mammoth spending package before the Friday deadline. Plus, the Senate Agriculture Committee marks up a crypto market bill. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, Jan. 26, 2026.
The Senate is set to take up a final spending package next week, but a weekend snowstorm could scramble the timeline. Lawmakers try to move forward on farm aid and ethanol. And supporters of an anti-deepfake bill urge House floor action. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, Jan. 23, 2026.
Congress has two weeks left to pass the remaining half of the fiscal 2026 spending bills. Democrats worry about Trump's threats to invoke the Insurrection Act. And as lawmakers grapple with extending health insurance subsidies, Trump unveils a health plan in broad strokes. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, Jan. 16, 2026.
The U.S. just made a big change to its vaccine recommendations, cutting back on the number of shots it will routinely recommend for kids. The government says it wants to "better align" with countries like Denmark. But is following Denmark's lead a fairy tale come true — or a nightmare in slow motion? Plus, we find out what this new schedule could mean for kids' vaccines in the U.S. We hear from Professor Jens Lundgren and pediatrician and researcher David Higgins. Find our transcript here: https://bit.ly/ScienceVsVaccineSchedules In this episode, we cover: (00:00) The growing turmoil around vaccines in the U.S. (02:20) Why did the CDC change its vaccine recommendations? (07:29) Vaccines, the Danish way (16:20) Should the U.S. copy Denmark's vaccine schedule? (20:22) How bad is this? (22:03) RSV: A case study in confusion (28:27) What should parents do now? This episode was produced by Blythe Terrell and Meryl Horn with help from Rose Rimler, Michelle Dang and Ekedi Fausther-Keeys. We're edited by Blythe Terrell. Additional research help from Erica Akiko Howard. Our executive producer is Wendy Zukerman. Mix and sound design by Bobby Lord. Music written by Emma Munger, So Wylie, Peter Leonard, Bumi Hidaka and Bobby Lord. Thanks very much to the Unbiased Science network, who connected us with David Higgins. They've been doing some amazing work on trying to explain what's going on with the U.S. and vaccines. Unbiased Science — check out their podcast and their socials. Thanks very much to all the scientists we spoke to and emailed with about these changes. And special thanks to Bernadette Sciandra and Laurence Horn. Science Vs is a Spotify Studios Original. Listen for free on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. Follow us and tap the bell for episode notifications. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Lawmakers release two more spending bills for fiscal 2026. Democrats introduce legislation to rein in Trump's military actions in Venezuela. And Republicans seek to walk back ESG considerations in retirement funds. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, Jan. 12, 2026.
Senators hope to unveil an ACA subsidies compromise next week. The ICE shooting in Minneapolis complicates DHS appropriations. And the Senate advances a Venezuela war powers resolution. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, Jan. 9, 2026.
On today's special 1st XI of Interviews episode of The Agenda, ACC Head G Lane goes back to an interview he had with Duco founder and creator of the Black Clash David Higgins.Did you know that we've launched a new Facebook Group called 'The Caravan' JOIN HERE! Brought to you by Export Ultra! Follow The ACC on Instagram or Facebook or TikTok Subscribe to The Agenda Podcast now on iHeartRadio, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! iHeartRadio Apple Spotify YouTube THANKS MATE! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Does the future of media lie within the past?Eric Jackman thinks so.He's an Executive Producer at Uncrowned (a media organization that partners with Yahoo! Sports), a co-host of my favorite podcast, "The Ariel Helwani Show," a former social media manager at ESPN and Vox Media, and he's also a past colleague of mine.And for the last five years, he's joined a podcast with me at the end of the year to discuss the media trends that unfolded throughout the year, as well as to forecast what's to come.In the first (and only) Zoom interview of the year, Eric (known online as NewYorkRic) joins me to discuss why creators are going all in on IRL events, Netflix's takeover of the entertainment industry, the rise of video podcasting, the flaws in the "Seacoast Stories" social media strategy, deploying targeted ads, winning strategies for Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, & LinkedIn, and much more.CHAPTERS:The demand for IRL events (00:00)Why social media is destined to return to its original state (06:50)The rise of video podcasting & Netflix's takeover (09:56)Social media advice for 2026 (16:45)SPONSORS: Sage Portsmouth & investment advisor David Higgins (22:25)How to make more shareable content (25:20)The Seacoast Stories social strategy (35:25)The death of the follower (44:32)Substack & LinkedIn (48:14)UPCOMING EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club is taking over Newburyport, MA, on Wednesday, January 7 at 6:30 p.m.! Book your seat here to make new friends.SPONSORS:Sage Portsmouth: Portsmouth's newest luxury condominiums are here ... and they're a steal! From now through 12/31, 20+ select units are available with BIG discounts. Prices start at $429,900. Inquire here.To get started on a path toward better financial investment, email our friend David Higgins david.higgins@wellsfargoadvisors.com! He's a Portsmouth legend, and you won't regret it.Investment and insurance products are Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency, Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate, Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested.Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Clearing Services (WFCS), LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. WFCS uses the trade name Wells Fargo Advisors. 1 North Jefferson, St. Louis, MO 63103.
Brace yourself for a January funding sprint. The Senate punts a potential health care fix into the new year. And there's more on Washington's to-do list as the year wraps up and a new one beckons. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, Dec. 19, 2025.
In this episode of Security Matters, host David Puner welcomes back David Higgins, senior director in CyberArk's Field Technology Office, for a timely conversation about the evolving cyber threat landscape. Higgins explains why today's attackers aren't breaking in—they're logging in—using stolen credentials, AI-powered social engineering, and deepfakes to bypass traditional defenses and exploit trust.The discussion explores how the rise of AI is eroding critical thinking, making it easier for even seasoned professionals to fall for convincing scams. Higgins and Puner break down the dangers of instant answers, the importance of “never trust, always verify,” and why zero standing privilege is essential for defending against insider threats. They also tackle the risks of shadow AI, the growing challenge of misinformation, and how organizations can build a culture of vigilance without creating a climate of mistrust.Whether you're a security leader, IT professional, or just curious about the future of digital trust, this episode delivers actionable insights on identity security, cyber hygiene, and the basics that matter more than ever in 2026 and beyond.
The Senate plans to clear the National Defense Authorization Act this week. House GOP leadership is teeing up floor action on a health care plan that forgoes an ACA tax credit extension. And energy permitting overhaul bills are also slated for the House floor. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, Dec. 15, 2025.
Lawmakers have unveiled the long-awaited text of a compromise National Defense Authorization Act. A batch of capital formation bills is being teed up for the House floor. And the Supreme Court weighs in on Trump's firing of an FTC commissioner. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Monday, Dec. 8, 2025.
Leadership works through last-minute sticking points on the National Defense Authorization Act. Small signs of progress emerge on the Senate's massive "minibus" spending package. And get ready for competing, partisan health care votes as soon as next week. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Friday, Dec. 5, 2025.
Seacoast Stories LIVE! is happening on Friday, December 5 at 3S Artspace. Host Troy Farkas will speak to Dagan Migirditch from Liars Bench Beer Co., as well as past podcast guests Laura Fox and Erin Holt. To see the Seacoast's No. 1 podcast in person, you can secure your tickets here.Port City Pretzels is not what you think it is.It's a much larger operation than you ever imagined it would be.Seated on THOUSANDS of grocery store shelves across the country, Port City Pretzels have become a giant in the snack industry. With shelf space in WalMart, Shaw's, Market Basket, Hannaford, and many more, Port City finds itself competing against the top dogs in a world Suzanne Foley never imagined she'd find herself in.Foley, the founder of Port City Pretzels, is the daughter of Eileen Foley, the longest-serving mayor in the history of Portsmouth ... and the creator of the dill ranch pretzel recipe - a recipe Suzanne perfected when she started her company in the mid-2010s.Port City Pretzels began as a modest operation in Suzanne's kitchen, with the original goal of selling solely at tiny stores across the Seacoast.But word quickly spread about the pretzels, and Suzanne, a high-flying businesswoman in a past life, decided to go all in - getting more space, hiring "unique" staff, and eventually bringing on her daughter, Eilee Marousek, to be her business partner.On today's episode, Suzanne and Eilee join host Troy Farkas to discuss the early days of Port City Pretzels, why very few took Suzanne seriously at first, how the company blew up faster than she expected, and why the two need to see a therapist in order to keep their working relationship healthy.Plus, how the business caught the attention of "Shark Tank" star Mark Cuban, and why Vice President Kamala Harris visited the facility during her presidential campaign!CHAPTERS:Starting Portsmouth Pretzels (00:00)Rapid growth in the early days (14:15)Port City's commitment to hiring workers with disabilities (18:40)SPONSORS: Little Tree Education & Studio H (25:25)How PCP began to scale and grow across the country (29:12)What it's like running a family business (46:02)That time Kamala Harris visited the factory (55:12)How do you want to be remembered? (01:07:00)EVENTS:Seacoast Stories Dinner Club! It's happening in Portsmouth at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, December 5, just prior to the next live podcast. Take the personality quiz here to get matched up with five Seacoast strangers for dinner.SPONSORS:Little Tree Education: Get 50% off your application fee with code SEACOASTSTORIES when applying your child for Spring/Fall 2026 at the Seacoast's top Montessori school!Studio H Salon: Get 50% ($100) off your consultation regarding preventative hair loss! Visit their website and type "STORIES" into the contact box to activate the deal.To get started on a path toward better financial investment, email our friend David Higgins david.higgins@wellsfargoadvisors.com! He's a Portsmouth legend, and you won't regret it.Investment and insurance products are Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency, Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of, or Guaranteed by, the Bank or Any Bank Affiliate, Subject to Investment Risks, Including Possible Loss of the Principal Amount Invested.Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Clearing Services (WFCS), LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. WFCS uses the trade name Wells Fargo Advisors. 1 North Jefferson, St. Louis, MO 63103.
House Appropriations Chair Tom Cole warns that a yearlong stopgap is possible for some agencies. The text of the compromise National Defense Authorization Act could be released next week. And lawmakers are mulling competing proposals for the expiring health care subsidies. David Higgins has your CQ Morning Briefing for Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025.