Podcasts about economic opportunity

Traditional culture meets global international economic development at the Bering Straits Native Corporation. The collection of tribes plays a key role in the Port of Nome that is working to develop the nation's first deepwater port in the Arctic. It is among the big — and small — economic development visions for Indigenous people in the Arctic region. We'll hear about those opportunities as well as some concerns about balancing financial and traditional environmental well-being being discussed at the Arctic Encounter Symposium in Anchorage, Alaska. GUESTS Haven Harris (enrolled tribal member of the Nome Eskimo Community), senior vice president of growth and strategy for the Bering Straits Native Corporation Edward Alexander (Gwich'in), co-councilor for Gwich'in Council International Rachel Kallander, founder and CEO of Arctic Encounter Summit Kuno Fencker (Inuit), member of the parliament of Greenland

Bhalla breaks down what Trump's tariff decision reveals about India's trade vulnerabilities. From agricultural inefficiencies to a protectionist mindset driven by what he calls the “deep state,” Bhalla argues that India has failed to open up to competition, and as a result, has lost credibility as a negotiating partner. He discusses why India's economic policies remain unchanged despite different political regimes, how resistance to global integration hurts Indian producers and consumers, and what India must do to be seen as a serious economic force.

In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Wayne Aston, CEO of Invictus Sovereign.  Aston discusses his career as an entrepreneur and his company's role in Utah's energy sector. His background in construction, the Marine Corps, and a church mission to Russia — combined with his passion for team-building and high adventure — have contributed to his current work. He explains how his company, Invictus Sovereign, focuses on developing land and managing the complex financing for major projects, aiming to pioneer in the transition from traditional utility monopolies to privately developed energy. Aston also details his work in central Utah, where his company leads a multi-year project focused on next-generation energy production. He explains that this effort aligns with Gov. Cox's Operation Gigawatt initiative to add a gigawatt of power to the state, which is vital for Utah's rapid growth and the increasing energy demands of artificial intelligence and data centers. Aston highlights that his projects are focused on creating high-paying jobs in central Utah to prevent young people from leaving the area. He also notes that Invictus Sovereign is working with the Utah Inland Port Authority to enhance rail and airport infrastructure. Its work focuses on long-term partnerships and a "Utah first" mentality to improve the state's economy and quality of life.

Traditional culture meets global international economic development at the Bering Straits Native Corporation. The collection of tribes plays a key role in the Port of Nome that is working to develop the nation's first deepwater port in the Arctic. It is among the big — and small — economic development visions for Indigenous people in the Arctic region. We'll hear about those opportunities as well as some concerns about balancing financial and traditional environmental well-being being discussed at the Arctic Encounter Symposium in Anchorage, Alaska.

Connecting the Dots for Detroit's Entrepreneurs: Justin Onwenu on Building Opportunity. As the City of Detroit's first Director of Entrepreneurship and Economic Opportunity, Justin Onwenu is on a mission to create real pathways to better work, higher wages, and long-term wealth for Detroiters. From startup support to access to capital, Justin is helping shape a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem—one that connects residents with tools, talent, and financial backing across the public, private, and philanthropic sectors.

We're joined by Gabriela Kane Guardia, Executive Director of Latinitas, an Austin nonprofit empowering girls through STEAM Education, Digital Equity, Career Exploration & Economic Opportunity.Gabriela shares her inspiring journey—from her resilient upbringing to becoming a changemaker in Austin, recently honored with a Hometown Hero Award from the MLS in the 2025 All-Star Game for her impact in the community.Don't miss this story of purpose, leadership, and representation.Thank you for your support! Featuring music by:The Tiarras - “Can't Stop The World” Adrian Activo - “Tu Mal”Links:http://ministradecultura.com/https://latinitasonline.org/https://mlshometownheroes.com/2025-hometown-heroes/

In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Bryan Phelps, CEO of Big Leap. Phelps discusses his digital marketing career, highlighting his journey through prominent Utah-based digital marketing companies like OrangeSoda and SEO.com before founding Big Leap in 2008. He emphasizes Big Leap's focus on foundational marketing principles, understanding customer journeys, and the importance of a strong brand in an evolving digital landscape. Phelps also touches on the company's culture, which prioritizes high-quality work over flashy tactics, and its commitment to employee well-being — especially for working mothers — through flexible remote work policies. He shares his insights on the impact of artificial intelligence on digital marketing, seeing it as a tool for efficiency and enhancement rather than replacement. Phelps believes Utah has a unique advantage in the digital sphere due to its history in the industry, talented workforce, and a supportive entrepreneurial community eager to mentor the next generation of business leaders.

BrainStorm wants to hear from you! Send us a text.What's the purpose of a long life if our brains can't enjoy it? Paul Irving, Senior Advisor at the Milken Institute on the Future of Longevity and Dean of Faculty at USC's Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, challenges conventional thinking about aging and longevity in a conversation with host, Meryl Comer. Together they address the critical distinction between longevity and brain health and explore why maintaining cognitive function matters more than simply extending lifespan. Paul shares insights into intergenerational collaboration and fighting ageism to create healthier, more productive later years.Join us for this enlightening conversation that will transform how you think about aging, purpose, and creating a life of meaning regardless of your current age. If you have a story about your caregiving experience, share it with us at stories@usagainstalzheimers.org to help advocate for continued research funding.Support the show

Originally uploaded June 27th, reloaded July 15th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes back Jonathan Smith, Senior Chief Deputy Director for LEO, Michigan's Labor and Economic Opportunity Department. What is the MI Hub for Manufacturers and how will it directly support small and mid-sized manufacturers in Michigan as they navigate the clean energy transition and global market changes? The platform is described as a digital front door—can you walk us through how a manufacturer might use the Hub to access resources, funding or expert guidance? How does the MI Hub for Manufacturers align with Michigan's broader economic and workforce goals? What kind of impact do you hope to see from this initiative—both for manufacturers and for the communities they support? MI Hub for Manufacturers Puts Michigan in the driver's seat, helps businesses navigate economic, technological and global trade shifts The Hub is made possible by $1.5 million in support from philanthropy and a partnership with Next Street, a national small business and supplier solutions company Michigan is a top 10 state for clean energy jobs, leads the nation for total jobs in advanced materials and has the fastest-growing workforce for energy-efficient HVAC and renewable heating and cooling DETROIT, Mich. — Today, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity's (LEO) Community & Worker Economic Transition Office brought together the private and public sectors at the New Center Stamping plant in Detroit to launch the MI Hub for Manufacturers. Acting as a digital front door, the MI Hub for Manufacturers equips small- and mid-sized manufacturing businesses with the tools they need to modernize operations, stay competitive amidst industry changes and put Michigan in the driver's seat of the growing clean energy economy. “Michigan has always been a place where big ideas are built and we're doubling down to make sure our manufacturers are ready to lead the world into a clean energy future,” said Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist. “The MI Hub for Manufacturers is more than just an investment in advanced technology — it's an investment in people, in communities and in a more prosperous Michigan. By helping our manufacturers adopt cutting-edge practices and clean energy solutions, we're keeping production and jobs here at home while positioning Michigan as a global leader in innovation, sustainability and inclusive economic growth.” The MI Hub for Manufacturers is the result of a statewide public-private partnership led by the State of Michigan in collaboration with industry associations, economic development organizations and business support providers. With $1.5 million in support from philanthropy and a partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and Next Street, a national small business and supplier solutions company, this dynamic, interactive online platform will publish funding opportunities, connect businesses to expert advisors and capital products, provide on-demand digital learning tools and host partner resources that can help suppliers diversify and grow to enter new supply chains. “The MI Hub for Manufacturers is about helping small to medium-sized businesses grow, compete, and thrive in a changing economy,” said Jonathan Smith, Michigan Community & Worker Economic Transition Office director. “By making it easier for them to access resources, funding, and expert support we're building a stronger, more resilient future for Michigan's manufacturing sector and workforce.” The MI Hub for Manufacturers will create a more resilient automotive and manufacturing sector in Michigan by helping businesses navigate today's economic, technological and global trade shifts — from supply chain disruptions to tariff pressures and electric vehicle transitions. By supporting manufacturing businesses through transition, Michigan is laying the groundwork for long-term growth, resilience and job creation across the state. ###

The energy grid of the future demands a massive amount of materials: billions of solar panels, millions of wind turbines and more. Climate strategist Marielle Remillard reveals why there may be critical shortages ahead — and breaks down how this could also be the biggest business opportunity since the Industrial Revolution. After the talk, Modupe discusses why it's important for entrepreneurs to be part of the climate resolution.Want to help shape TED's shows going forward? Fill out our survey!For a chance to give your own TED Talk, fill out the Idea Search Application: ted.com/ideasearch.Interested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links:TEDNext: ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Anil Singh, founder and president of Saras AI Institute.  Singh shares his journey, from growing up in a small village in India to becoming a successful entrepreneur, highlighting how education transformed his life and inspired him to establish Saras AI Institute. The institute offers fully online AI education, including certificate, associate, and bachelor's degree programs, with a unique project-based learning approach that eliminates traditional exams. Singh discusses the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Saras AI Institute and the Indian Institute of Technology to advance AI education in India. He emphasizes that AI is not here to replace humans but to augment them, creating millions of new jobs and solving humanity's greatest challenges. Singh encourages anyone interested in AI to embrace it as a tool and offers advice on how to get started, recommending readily available tools like ChatGPT. He also highlights Saras AI Institute's beginner-friendly "Powers of AI" course, designed to help individuals confidently enter the AI field, regardless of their background.

In this episode of The P.A.S. Report Podcast, Professor Nick Giordano sits down with Anthony Constantino, CEO of Sticker Mule, to dissect the growing dysfunction in government and how it's impacting American business and politics. From the damaging effects of Democrat extremism in New York City to the barriers faced by entrepreneurs trying to support their communities, Constantino offers sharp insight into the state of the economy, the future of American manufacturing, and the role of leaders like Congresswoman Elise Stefanik. They also explore why the so-called Big Beautiful Bill demands scrutiny, and how fiscal irresponsibility in Congress has led to bloated bureaucracy and resistance to real reform. Episode Highlights: How government overreach is strangling small businesses and stifling innovation Why Anthony Constantino believes Elise Stefanik could revive New York The Big Beautiful Bill: Why complexity and bureaucracy keep failing Americans

Chris Holman welcomes Bart Pickelman, MIOSHA Director, Lansing, MI. MIOSHA is celebrating 50 years—what are some of the biggest milestones the organization has achieved since 1975? How has MIOSHA's approach to workplace safety evolved over the decades to meet new challenges? Can you share some examples of how MIOSHA's consultative services or training programs have made a difference for businesses? What role do partnerships like the MVPP and MSHARP play in creating a strong safety culture across Michigan? Looking ahead, how does MIOSHA plan to continue innovating and protecting Michigan's workers over the next 50 years? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCqNX… » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ MIOSHA Marks 50 Years of Protecting Workers LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA), part of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, is celebrating 50 years of service to Michigan's workforce. Since its creation in 1975, MIOSHA has remained committed to protecting the safety and health of Michigan workers through education, outreach and enforcement. “For 50 years, MIOSHA has worked side by side with businesses and workers to keep people safe,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “By going above and beyond to protect our workers, MIOSHA ensures that everyone can go home at the end of the day while helping our businesses continue to thrive. A strong economy starts with safe workplaces, and I'm proud of MIOSHA's role in creating opportunity and peace of mind for Michigan families.” MIOSHA is one of 22 states with federal OSHA-approved safety and health programs that cover both private and public sector workers. “For half a century, MIOSHA has been at the forefront of protecting Michigan workers by fostering safe and healthy workplaces,” said MIOSHA Director Bart Pickelman. "Our mission to ‘Protect the Health and Safety of Michigan Workers' remains as important today as it was when we began. This five decade milestone is a testament to the collaborative efforts of employers, employees and MIOSHA staff who share a commitment to safety and health.” A Legacy of Leadership Over five decades, MIOSHA has launched statewide initiatives and partnerships aimed at reducing workplace hazards and saving lives. Key achievements include: Helped reduce workplace fatalities: Fatalities dropped 65 percent, and injury and illness rates fell 66 percent since the 1970s. Advancing worker health and safety: MIOSHA's consultative services have helped thousands of businesses proactively address workplace hazards. State emphasis programs: Focused efforts have addressed serious risks such as fall hazards, excavation safety, heat exposure and silica. Training and education: Since 2007, the MIOSHA Training Institute (MTI) has trained more than 35,000 workers and employers with affordable, high-quality courses. Grants for safer workplaces: MIOSHA has awarded more than $12 million in grant funding to small and mid-sized employers to expand access to training and safety equipment. Cooperative programs: Partnerships such as the MIOSHA Alliance Program, the Michigan Voluntary Protection Program (MVPP) and the Michigan Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (MSHARP) have strengthened workplace safety cultures statewide. Looking Ahead As MIOSHA commemorates its 50th anniversary, the agency remains committed to evolving with the needs of Michigan's workforce. It will continue to innovate, expand outreach and strengthen collaborations with employers, workers and stakeholders. MIOSHA's motto is to “Educate Before We Regulate”. Learn more about tools and resources to support safe and healthy workplaces at Michigan.gov/MIOSHA. ###

In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Emily Ashby, program manager for Utah's Own. Ashby shares insights into her passion for local industries with Utah's Own, a state-branded program promoting Utah's agriculture and food business. She discusses the vital function of Utah's Own in bridging the gap between consumers and local producers, highlighting the program's efforts to support and uplift the state's food and farming sector.  Utah's Own, which became membership-based five years ago, offers benefits like online directory presence, using Utah's Own logo for product differentiation, and promotional opportunities through social media and newsletters. Ashby emphasizes the economic impact of supporting local businesses, noting that increasing local spending by just 10% could retain an additional $1.3 billion annually within Utah's economy. Ashby also addresses challenges facing Utah's agriculture, such as land development, water issues, and the need for succession planning in family farms, while also noting the positive trend of agritourism as a way for farmers to diversify their income and keep their farms viable.

Northside Economic Opportunity Network President Warren McLean talks to F&C reporter Brian Johnson. McLean discusses the Northside Forward program, NEON's mission and other topics.

Join Sarah Bertagnolli, President & CEO of LSI, as she welcomes today's guest: Pete Codella—communications strategist, tech innovator, and one of the managing directors in the Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity. From digital branding to economic growth, Pete shares insights on the intersection of innovation, government, and what it takes to build thriving communities in the state of Utah.

A special election took place this weekend to replace House Majority Leader Jefferson Moss' seat in the Utah State House of Representatives, for District 51. Moss announced his decision to step down from his seat in the Utah State House of Representatives to accept a new role as Executive Director of Utah Governor Cox’s Office of Economic Opportunity. Holly brings the latest details as Leah Hansen took the win and shares her fun facts of the day.  

In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Chris Baird, CEO of OptConnect. Baird discusses his journey from sales and operations before becoming CEO of OptConnect. The company began by providing temporary cellular connectivity for ATMs at an outdoor festival and has since evolved into a full-service provider of managed wireless solutions for a wide range of unattended machines like kiosks and digital signage — meeting growing demand as major retailers began requiring vendors to bring their internet solutions. Baird explains that OptConnect's solutions involve purpose-built hardware, extensive software development by 50 engineers, and redundant cellular connectivity across major carriers. The company has grown to nearly 200 direct employees, with additional contractors, and has expanded globally with offices in Europe and Latin America, serving over 1.1 million devices. Baird discusses OptConnect's consistent growth and recognition on lists like Utah Business's Fast 50 and Inc. 5000, attributing it to a relentless focus on customer satisfaction, which stems from prioritizing employee well-being and fostering a strong company culture, including a dedicated annual day of service for all employees.

How can NL grow economically? Author and business owners talk about the challenges and solutions in making NL (and its rural communities) thrive.

In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Stephanie Frohman, associate director of the Janet Quinney Lawson Institute for Land, Water, and Air at Utah State University. Frohman shares her career journey and the critical work the institute is doing in Utah. With 27 years of experience as an engineer in medical devices, she transitioned into economic development, spending two decades at the Economic Development Corporation of Utah. Her passion for mission-based work led her to focus on natural resources, leading her to her current role, where she is pursuing a master's degree in natural resources to better understand Utah's unique environmental challenges and opportunities. Frohman highlights the institute's mission to connect decision-makers with high-quality research, providing evidence-based support for environmental and economic solutions. It produces an annual report for the governor and Legislature, translating complex research into accessible insights and serving as a resource for policymakers on land, water, and air issues. Frohman highlights the institute's proactive and reactive approaches, including its work with the Great Salt Lake Strike Team to baseline scientific understanding and its Bear Lake needs assessment to prevent future problems. It also engages students, offering professional development opportunities and involving them in policy discussions.

In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Thomas Laakso, senior vice president of DPS Skis. Laakso highlights Utah's unique advantage of outdoor access, which allows him to combine his career in skiing with living in the mountains. His material science and composite engineering background led him to work for brands like The North Face before joining Black Diamond and eventually co-founding an avalanche safety company. He oversees product and operations at DPS Skis, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary and is the largest ski producer in the United States. Laakso emphasizes DPS Skis' commitment to using 90% domestic materials, which proved beneficial during supply chain disruptions. He details the company's 18-month design, manufacturing, and testing process, highlighting the strategic advantage of its Salt Lake City location for rapid iteration and testing on nearby mountains. DPS Skis, known for its carbon fiber construction and focus on freeride, recently launched a new Pisteworks line for hard snow carving. Laakso also discusses its Revive program, which refurbishes and resells used skis, including those from other brands, promoting sustainability by extending product lifespan.

Season 7 Episode 22: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Brian Cassil, principal director of communications, and Jeffrey Tuft, principal partner at Architectural Nexus.  Cassil discusses his 28-year career with Architectural Nexus, bringing a unique film and media arts background to his role, focusing on storytelling in design. Tuft shares his 20-year career with the firm and his role as a principal partner and LEED-certified professional, emphasizing sustainable building practices. They highlight the company's transition to a 100% employee-owned company with offices in Salt Lake City, Sacramento, and remote locations, primarily serving the Western United States.  The conversation delves into pressing issues like housing affordability in Utah. Tuft discusses the need for more condominiums to address the challenges faced by first-time homebuyers and how liability concerns deter developers from building them. The duo shares their pride in working on impactful projects such as the Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah and the National Ability Center in Park City, which underscores the firm's commitment to community and philanthropy. They also expressed optimism about Utah's continued growth, partially driven by events like the 2034 Winter Olympics, which they believe will further fuel the state's prosperity and attract diverse opportunities. 

Cover crops have been around for over 10,000 years. It wasn't until about 50 years ago that they started being replaced with chemical fertilizers, which many farmers saw as a more modern, efficient method. But the tide may be turning again – back to the (cover crop) roots. And this time, there may be loads of economic opportunity and environmental sustainability to gain. Press play to explore: Tips for growing cash crops that will enrich soils, leading to better harvests How algal blooms and drinking water problems can result from bare soils in the winter months How relay cropping works and why it's so useful Mitch Hunter is an Assistant Professor and Associate Director of the Forever Green Initiative at the University of Minnesota. This interdisciplinary initiative is dedicated to helping farmers and the environment by developing comprehensive crops, cropping systems, and supply chains for novel crops. The ultimate goal is to keep soils covered all year long, preventing fertilizer from washing into bodies of water, maintaining soil quality, and boosting overall productivity. Tune in and visit Home | Forever Green (umn.edu) to learn more. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3bO8R6q

Season 7 Episode 21: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Mark Dietlein, president, CEO, and co-founder, and Sally Dietlein, artistic director, executive producer, and co-founder of Hale Centre Theatre.  Mark and Sally Dietlein share their journey of building a thriving theater company in Utah. They discuss how their shared background in performing arts at BYU led them to join forces with Mark's grandparents, Ruth and Nathan Hale, to establish the theater in 1985. Over nearly 40 years, Hale Centre Theatre has experienced significant growth, expanding from its initial small venue to its current world-class facility in Sandy, Utah, which boasts unique and advanced stage technology. They emphasize Utah's strong work ethic and community support for the arts as key factors in their success. The duo highlights their commitment to providing high-quality theatrical experiences, including an extensive education program and outreach initiatives like "Story Weavers" that bring theater to underserved communities. They explain their meticulous show production process, the significant investment in each production, and their focus on delivering "emotional baths" to their audiences.

Season 7 Episode 20: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Natalie Kaddas, CEO of Kaddas Enterprises.  Kaddas discusses her journey from hospitality to leading a second-generation family business. She highlights the company's evolution from making aviation components to its innovative BirdguarD™ product, which prevents animal-caused power outages and mitigates wildfires. Kaddas emphasizes the importance of domestic sourcing, the company's global reach in 15 countries, and its strategic use of automation, which streamlined operations and elevated workforce skills. Kaddas also shares her perspective as a woman CEO in manufacturing, noting the increasing presence of women in the industry and the unique perspectives they bring to leadership. She discusses the company's commitment to employee well-being, including a four-day work week and financial literacy classes that significantly reduce turnover and increase retirement program participation. Kaddas praises Utah's supportive business environment, highlighting partnerships with the governor's office for workforce training and the community's collaborative spirit.

The story of Salish Elements began when one man gifted a bundle of tobacco to another. Rueben George and Omar Kassem first met at a gathering designed to provide Indigenous communities with the support of technology and business activists. Omar, is an energy industry engineer, working towards safely deploying hydrogen into British Columbia's utility infrastructure. Rueben is a globally recognized environmentalist and best-selling co-author of "It Stops Here", the story of the spiritual, cultural, and political resurgence of an indigenous nation taking action to reclaim their lands, waters, and food systems in the face of colonization. The gift of tobacco from Omar to Rueben led to discussions of how a green hydrogen energy business could provide an alternative to oil as well as share an economic opportunity with other Indigenous communities and First Nations in Canada. The idea of producing green hydrogen across B.C. with other Indigenous communities has become the story of Salish Elements, which Omar and Rueben have graciously agreed to share with our followers.

The energy grid of the future demands a massive amount of materials: billions of solar panels, millions of wind turbines and more. Climate strategist Marielle Remillard reveals why there may be critical shortages ahead — and breaks down how this could also be the biggest business opportunity since the Industrial Revolution.Want to help shape TED's shows going forward? Fill out our survey! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 7 Episode 19: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Ryan Wedig, CEO and co-founder of Vasion, opens in a new tab. Wedig shares his journey of co-founding PrinterLogic — now Vasion — in St. George in 2012. He recounts meeting the founder and recognizing the potential of his print server elimination technology as the IT landscape shifted towards private clouds. Wedig, with a background in systems engineering and an MBA, partnered to build the business, initially focusing on eliminating print servers before expanding the company's vision. He highlights the unexpected impact of its technology during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to Vasion's broader mission: to make digital transformation attainable for everyone. Wedig discusses the company's vision of bridging the gap between humans and AI by offering affordable and accessible solutions, contrasting this with expensive and often antiquated systems of existing workflow providers. He emphasizes Vasion's commitment to security and its architectural focus on building native security features rather than relying on complex integrations. Wedig details Vasion's role in fostering a tech community in St. George, culminating in the development of Tech Ridge. He shares the company's global reach, its recognition as a top workplace, and its ambitious goal to lead the market in AI automation over the next three years.

Season 7 Episode 18: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Scott Holmes, founder and CEO of Teton. Holmes discusses his career path, which unexpectedly pivoted from biology and medical school after being mentored by an entrepreneur in the import business. This experience ignited his entrepreneurial spirit and laid the foundation for his future. He recounts the genesis of Teton, born from a "to-don't" list of business practices he observed and wanted to avoid.    Holmes explains how Teton initially operated with a lean, home-based model, shipping directly to retailers before establishing domestic warehousing to address inventory fluctuations. He highlights Teton's early entry and success on Amazon, attributing it to a strategy of overbuilding quality products that exceed customer expectations, leading to overwhelmingly positive reviews.  Holmes also shares Teton's philosophy of giving back by donating gear to underserved communities to promote healthy living and outdoor experiences, stemming from his own initial negative experiences with poor-quality camping gear as a child. He offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the power of "no," the importance of focusing on mastery before diversification, and the critical step of discovering one's core values. 

Britain's largest rewilding landscape launches as new charity Vast Highlands initiative to boost nature, re-peopling, rural livelihoods and economic opportunities including sustainable timber, fishing, farming, wildlife tourism The UK's largest rewilding landscape, Affric Highlands, has launched as an independent charity with the aim of restoring nature across more than 200,000 hectares of the central Highlands over the next 30 years, to benefit nature, climate and people. New Affric Highlands initiative to boost nature The community-focused initiative brings together a broad partnership of landowners, local people and others to restore native woodland, peatland and riverside habitats, and boost wildlife across a linked network of landholdings stretching from Loch Ness to the west coast. It will rewild the landscape and allow nature to connect and thrive across large areas - creating social and economic benefits for communities, supporting re-peopling, and tackling the climate and nature emergencies. Affric Highlands will work with local landowners to strengthen land-based rural livelihoods and nature-based economic opportunities, making the region a hub for sustainable timber, fishing, farming, venison and wildlife tourism. This will include the creation of a network of businesses benefitting from rewilding. "Affric Highlands is a community focused vision of hope. It's hugely inspiring to be setting out as a new charity on this ambitious 30-year journey to take large-scale nature recovery to a new level," said Affric Highlands executive director Stephanie Kiel. "We want to create new opportunities and real benefits for local landowners, communities and rural economies, so nature, people and livelihoods can all thrive together." Restoring habitats will boost biodiversity and benefit wildlife including golden eagles, red squirrels, black grouse, mountain hares, salmon, trout, ospreys and otters. The initiative will potentially cover over 700 square miles stretching from Loch Ness to Kintail in the west, and encompassing Glens Cannich, Urquhart, Affric, Moriston and Shiel. The region is stunningly beautiful but largely ecologically damaged, with much land degraded following centuries of deforestation and overgrazing. The globally unique Caledonian forest has been reduced to isolated fragments. Damage to peatlands means they are emitting rather than absorbing carbon. Lochs and rivers are depleted of salmon. This damage to the natural world means the region now supports fewer people than it could - limiting people's opportunities for sustainable land-based jobs, and undermining sustainable agriculture which depends on functioning natural processes. Affric Highlands began work in September 2021, when it also became the ninth member of Rewilding Europe's network of large, iconic rewilding landscapes across Europe. This followed the initiative's first three years of work as Trees for Life's East-West Wild project, during which the charity carried out extensive preparation and local consultation. Affric Highlands has since operated as a joint venture led by Trees for Life with support and advice from Rewilding Europe. The initiative has grown so successfully that it has now been launched as an independent charity, to take forward and upscale its pioneering work. Affric Highlands' growing partnership already consists of a broad coalition of 19 landowners, covering an area of over 58,000 hectares within the vast landscape. These separate landholdings - which have all signed a memorandum of understanding - are making their own decisions on what nature recovery interventions are right for them, with the Affric Highlands team providing guidance and also support for seeking funding. Native woodlands and peatlands are being restored to boost biodiversity and absorb carbon. Riverwoods are being created by returning woodland to the banks of upland streams and rivers to provide vital shade, nutrients and shelter for Scotland's struggling Atl...

Give to help Chris continue making Truce A small group of men calling themselves The New Right had a major role to play in bonding some evangelicals to the Republican Party. Yet many Christians don't know who these guys were or how they used money and influence to accomplish their goal. Let's meet the fellas. One was named Paul Weyrich. Weyrich's contribution to the movement is that he knew how to organize people, a skill he learned from watching liberal protests. He was a former radio newsman from Wisconsin, member of the Melkite Greek Catholic Church when he thought the Roman Catholic Church became too liberal. He saw how liberals were organizing in the US and decided to do something similar with conservatives. The goal was to bring together politicians, activists, money, and the press to have a unified front. Organizational skills were his secret weapon. Howard Phillips was a follower of RJ Rushdoony's Christian Reconstruction plan. He gutted the Office of Economic Opportunity for Richard Nixon and then founded a think tank called The Conservative Caucus. He said "we organize discontent" meaning that the New Right used emotional issues to rile up their base. Then there was Richard Viguerie. He was the king of bulk mail. The New Right used his services to advocate for their kind of politicians, for Anita Bryant, and to raise money. His company RAVCO was investigated for fraud. These men and more were vital in bringing some evangelicals into the Republican Party. Our guest today is Rick Perlstein, author of amazing history books like Reaganland and The Invisible Bridge. Sources: Reaganland and The Invisible Bridge by Rick Perlstein Mobilizing the Moral Majority: Paul Weyrich and the Creation of a Conservative Coalition, 1968-1988 by Tyler J. Poff pages 22-23 The Evangelicals by Frances Fitzgerald Weyrich, Memorandum, April 16, 1973, Paul M. Weyrich Scrapbooks. But accessed through Mobilizing the Moral Majority: Paul Weyrich and the Creation of a Conservative Coalition, 1968-1988 by Tyler J. Poff page 18 Christian Reconstruction: RJ Rushdoony and American Religious Conservatism - by Michael McVicar Memo from Gerald Ford Library The 1974 Campaign Finance Reform Act James Robison at the Religious Roundtable Discussion Questions: What was meant by "we organize discontent"? Is this a statement Jesus would have made? Have you ever heard of the New Right guys before? Google Paul Weyrich and watch videos of him talking. How does he use language to stir fear in others? Are there issues that politicians can use to push your buttons? What are they? Why? Why are some evangelicals driven by these push button issues? How was the New Right able to use issues of sex to steer some evangelicals? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The energy grid of the future demands a massive amount of materials: billions of solar panels, millions of wind turbines and more. Climate strategist Marielle Remillard reveals why there may be critical shortages ahead — and breaks down how this could also be the biggest business opportunity since the Industrial Revolution.

The energy grid of the future demands a massive amount of materials: billions of solar panels, millions of wind turbines and more. Climate strategist Marielle Remillard reveals why there may be critical shortages ahead — and breaks down how this could also be the biggest business opportunity since the Industrial Revolution.

America is facing an epidemic of loneliness and isolation, with troubling effects on our mental and physical health. We live in one of the most divisive times in our history, one in which we tend to work, play, and associate only with people who think as we do. How do we create spaces for people to come together — to open our minds, understand our differences, and exchange ideas? In his new book, Meet Me at the Library, Shamichael Hallman argues that the public library may be our best hope for bridging these divides and creating strong, inclusive communities. Public libraries are increasingly playing an essential role in building social cohesion, promoting civic renewal, and advancing the ideals of a healthy democracy. Many are reimagining themselves in new and innovative ways, actively reaching out to the communities they serve. Today, libraries are becoming essential institutions for repairing society. Drawing from his experience at the Memphis Public Library and his extensive research and interviews across the country, Hallman presents a rich argument for seeing libraries as one of the nation's greatest assets. He includes examples from libraries large and small — such as the Iowa's North Liberty Library's Lighthouse in the Library program to bring people together to discuss important topics in a safe and supportive space, to Cambridge Cooks, an initiative of the Cambridge MA Public Library that fosters social connection by bringing people together over shared interest in food. As an institution that is increasingly under attack for creating a place where diverse audiences can see themselves, public libraries are under more scrutiny than ever. Meet Me at the Library offers us a revealing look at one of our most important civic institutions and the social and civic impact they must play if we are to heal our divided nation. Shamichael Hallman serves as the Director of Civic Health and Economic Opportunity at Urban Libraries Council, an innovation and action tank of North America's leading public library systems. In this role, he's working to advance conversations about public libraries as essential city and county infrastructure, including their value as physical spaces and a connector of diverse lived experiences. From 2017 – 2022 he served as the Senior Library Manager of the historic Cossitt Library (Memphis Public Libraries), tasked with overseeing the multi-million-dollar renovation of this space which reimagined the roles that a branch library could play in the community. During his tenure with Memphis Public Libraries, the library system was awarded the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Science by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and was recognized as the Nation's Most Innovative Public Library by Smithsonian Magazine in November of 2021. His 2020 TEDx talk “Reimagining the Public Library to Reconnect the Community” garnered international attention among librarians and social innovators. Presented by Town Hall Seattle and Seattle Public Library. Buy the Book Meet Me at the Library: A Place to Foster Social Connection and Promote Democracy Elliott Bay Book Company

Hosts: Leah Murray and Erin Rider  White House rebukes Amazon for false report of ‘import surcharges’  Reports early this morning that Amazon would add a new price breakdown to their products, showing an "import surcharge." Several businesses have made similar proposals, but the alleged plan from Amazon brought a harsh rebuke from the White House. Now, Amazon says those earlier reports weren't even true. Government going after private businesses for making business decisions. But the White House says it's all political. Is it? Leah and Erin break it all down.    Pres. Trump’s effects on yesterday’s Canadian elections  Canada's Liberal Party has won the election up north and many people say President Trump's comments and actions towards Canada played a major part in the election results. Incumbent Prime Minister Mark Carney, who only recently took over from former P.M. Justin Trudeau, will continue to lead the country. As the dust settles, the Inside Sources hosts look back on the effect Trump had on the elections and what the future relationship between the US and Canada may look like.    How supporting Ukraine could deter China  Utah Senator John Curtis is calling for continued support of Ukraine and a distancing from Russian President Vladimir Putin to deter China from expanding its own military influence in the Far East. Speaking at a recent event, Senator Curtis said that our strength against Russia will show China what would happen should they go after Taiwan. Megan Reiss, Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security, and the Founder and CEO of SolidIntel joins the conversation.    Higher education institutions continue pushing back on Pres. Trump  Institutions of higher education continue their push back on the Trump Administration. Roughly 10 schools – including Ivy League and other private research universities – have joined together in a new private collective to resist President Trump. And a letter condemning the President has been signed by a university president here in Utah. The Inside Sources hosts discuss the latest higher education efforts to fight the administration.    The role of the federal government in immigration policy  The 2010 Utah Compact spells out how we – as a state – will handle the issue of immigration with humanity. The first principle of the Compact is that immigration is a federal issue. With so much inaction on the federal level, is there still hope for solutions? Will Congress ever fix the broken immigration system? KSL 5 TV has been asking the state’s congressional delegation about it; we hear what they’ve said, and the hosts get into it.    Smith Entertainment Group offers money to local cities to build hockey rinks  Homegrown talent in ice hockey – it's a dream Ryan Smith, the head of Smith Entertainment Group and owner of the Utah Hockey Club hopes to see here in Utah. Now, the group is offering cities up to $500,000 to build more ice hockey rinks. Leah Murray and Erin Rider talk about this potential private/public partnership.    The state of Utah’s economy  Earlier this month, a new ‘Rich States, Poor States’ report ranked Utah as the state with the best economic outlook. When the report was released, we spoke with the head of ALEC – the group that sponsored the report – about why Utah ranks so high. Today, we chat more about the long-term economic outlook for the state with Ryan Starks, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.    What one local mayor learned on a bike ride through central Utah  Earlier this month, West Jordan Mayor Dirk Burton took a more than 400-mile bike ride from Salt Lake City through rural central Utah on his way to a conference in St. George. He stopped and chatted with local mayors along the ride, discussing the needs and issues facing small-town Utahns. He joins Inside Sources to talk a bit more about his journey.   

Hosts: Leah Murray and Erin Rider  Earlier this month, a new ‘Rich States, Poor States’ report ranked Utah as the state with the best economic outlook. When the report was released, we spoke with the head of ALEC – the group that sponsored the report – about why Utah ranks so high. Today, we chat more about the long-term economic outlook for the state with Ryan Starks, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity. 

Chris Holman welcomes back Susan Corbin, Director, LEO - Michigan's Department of Labor, Economic Opportunity, Lansing, MI. What is the Going PRO Talent Fund, and what kind of support does it offer to Michigan businesses and workers? How does the fund help strengthen Michigan's workforce and support employers looking to grow and retain skilled talent? Since the program's launch, Going PRO has supported more than 225,000 workers and awarded $302 million in grants to 7,480 businesses. What kinds of outcomes are you seeing, and what does that mean for Michigan's workforce and economy long-term? Going PRO is part of LEO's All-Access Michigan approach. Can you talk about how the program is helping remove barriers and create more equitable pathways to good-paying, secure jobs across the state? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Watch MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Chuck Rocha and Mike Madrid welcome Congressman Gabe Vasquez (D-New Mexico CD02) for a wide-ranging conversation about family, fishing, and forging political wins in a red-leaning, majority-Latino district. From adobe bricks to capitol halls, Rep. Vasquez shares the unlikely story of his rise from a Mexican-American farm family and part-time vacuum cleaner salesman to city councilor and the strategy behind how he became the first Democrat in over 50 years to hold his seat.Tune in to hear:  - Borderland insights: What it's like to represent a district larger than Pennsylvania—containing 108 miles of the U.S.–Mexico border.  - Conservation in Congress: How he brought Gila trout, Mexican gray wolves, and other conservation legislations to Washington.  - Campaign secrets: How fishing trips, localized Spanish, and a deeply rooted ground game helped Gabe flip a Republican seat twice.  - The working-class story: Why Latinos aren't “left” or “right,” but the backbone of America's workforce—and where Democrats go from here.  - Insider announcement: Chuck's “Brown & Bougee” brunch at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, honoring journalists Sabrina Rodriguez and Adrian Carrasquillo!Whether you're a political junkie, conservation nerd, or just love a good fish tale, this episode delivers the real-life playbook of winning trust—and votes.-Recorded April 23, 2025.-Learn more about Rep. Gabe Vasquez:https://vasquez.house.gov/https://www.facebook.com/RepGabeVasquez/https://bsky.app/profile/repgabevasquez.bsky.socialhttps://x.com/repgabevasquezhttps://www.instagram.com/repgabevasquez/-Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of The Latino Vote Podcast!Watch our episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thelatinovotepodcastFollow us on X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/TheLatino_VoteVisit our website for the latest Latino Vote news and subscribe to our newsletter: latinos.voteIf you want more of our discussions and behind the scenes please join our Patreon (www.patreon.com/thelatinovote) for exclusive content and opportunities!

Season 7 Episode 16: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Preston Cochrane, CEO of The Other Side Village.  Cochrane discusses his journey into social impact work, driven by a desire to contribute to something larger than himself. He highlights his previous roles in organizations focused on homelessness, mental health, and financial education, emphasizing the importance of believing in people's capacity for change, even when their circumstances seem overwhelming. Cochrane delves into the mission of The Other Side Village and its sister organization, The Other Side Academy. The Academy is a 2.5-year residential program for individuals with histories of incarceration, addiction, and homelessness, where residents operate social enterprises to fund the program. Inspired by the Academy's success, the Village provides permanent, supportive housing for chronically homeless individuals with mental health diagnoses. A key component of the Village is its democratic, therapeutic environment where residents are peer-led and must complete a "village prep school" before moving in. Cochrane highlights that both organizations share a core belief: people can change when supported by accountability, love, and a sense of purpose.

Season 7 Episode 15: In this episode, Pete Codella, managing director of business services at the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, talks with Matt Sanders, founder and CEO, and Eric Mikkelsen, vice president of product, at Longitude.  Sanders and Mikkelsen delve into their professional backgrounds, which both involve building new enterprises alongside existing organizations, including their time together at Western Governors University. They discuss the genesis and operation of Longitude, a company focused on managing luxury short-term vacation rentals, second homes, and full-time residences primarily in the Wasatch Back region of Utah.  Sanders explains the company's unique model, which blends employees with licensed service partners, empowering individuals, particularly Latin American immigrant women, through training and entrepreneurial opportunities. Mikkelsen emphasizes Longitude's commitment to investing in its people, fostering a high level of service, and attracting talent in a competitive hospitality market. They also discuss their marketing strategies, the importance of guest reviews, and their positive experiences within Utah's collaborative and entrepreneurial business community, expressing optimism for future growth while prioritizing their local base.

In March, we recorded an episode live on stage at SXSW EDU in Austin, Texas. This disagreement is all about ESAs, or Education Savings Accounts. You may have heard of ESAs under a different name, like vouchers or school choice programs. Right now, 18 states have some sort of ESA program in place.The programs are becoming more popular across the country, but should they be? What accounts for the increasing support for ESAs? What risks and benefits do they pose for students and families? Does the rise of ESAs inherently harm our public schools?When we say ESAs, we are NOT talking about 529 plans or other college savings programs. We're talking about K-12 education. These programs create a government-authorized savings account for families, allowing them to take some quantity of the funding that would have supported their child in public school, and use those dollars in the way they see fit: whether that's to supplement private school tuition, parochial school tuition, tutoring, special needs services or for other educational purposes.Shaka Mitchell is a Senior Fellow at the American Federation for Children, an advocacy organization in the school choice movement. He has served in leadership roles at high-performing charter school networks, including Rocketship Education and LEAD Public schools in Nashville.Jaime Puente is the Director of Economic Opportunity at Every Texan, an advocacy and public policy organization striving to expand opportunities for all Texans. He currently oversees their work on education. Previously, Jaime served as Legislative Director for members of the Texas House of Representatives.This episode is moderated by The Disagreement's co-host and co-founder Catherine Cushenberry.Sign up for our newsletter at thedisagreement.substack.com

Dive into an inspiring episode, as host Marina Franklin talks with Mayor Randall Woodfin and Roy Wood Jr. on Friends Like Us! From community empowerment to leadership and Randall Woodfin's new memoir, "Sons of Birmingham,". Hear how these sons of Birmingham are making waves.  Randall Woodfin was born in Birmingham, Alabama, and after four years in Atlanta earning his degree from Morehouse College, has lived in Birmingham ever since. He worked at City Hall (in jobs for both the Mayor and the City Council) and for the Jefferson County Committee on Economic Opportunity, attended Cumberland School of Law at Samford University and, after obtaining his law degree, accepted a job in the City of Birmingham Law Department. As an assistant city attorney, he also became an organizer, working on campaigns at the local, state, and federal level. After serving on the Birmingham Board of Education, he ran for mayor in 2016 with endorsements from President Joe Biden, Senators Bernie Sanders and Cory Booker, and Stacey Abrams. Woodfin won an upset victory in a runoff in 2017 and earned a featured speaker role at the 2020 Democratic National Convention. He is seeking his third term in 2025. Buy his new memoir: "Sons Of Birmingham". ROY WOOD JR. is a comedian, an Emmy-nominated documentary producer for the PBS documentary The Neutral Ground, a correspondent on Comedy Central's Emmy-nominated The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, and host of Comedy Central's award-winning podcast, The Daily Show: Beyond the Scenes. Spring of 2023, Wood guest hosted The Daily Show and headlined the White House Correspondents' Dinner to its highest ratings since 2017. Wood co-starred alongside Jon Hamm in Paramount Pictures' long-awaited Fletch remake, Confess, Fletch (2022), and has guest appearances in ‘Only Murders in the Building', ‘Better Call Saul', ‘The Last O.G.' & ‘Space Force.' As a writer and executive producer, his development deals have included a first-look deal with Comedy Central for ‘Jefferson County: Probation,' an HBO Max project, ‘1% Happy,' an untitled medical field comedy for NBC, and an untitled single-camera comedy about the National Guard for FOX. Wood's first Comedy Central one-hour stand-up special, Roy Wood Jr.: Father Figure, debuted in 2017, the same year he was named the new host of Comedy Central's storytelling series, This is Not Happening. Debuting in 2019, his second Comedy Central special, Roy Wood Jr.: No One Loves You, remains the network's highest-rated original stand-up premiere. In 2021, his third Comedy Central special, Roy Wood Jr.: Imperfect Messenger, aired hyper-recent material just two weeks after taping. Forbes declared he is “One of comedy's best journalists,” Entertainment Weekly has described his thought-provoking comedy as “. . . charismatic crankiness. . .” and Variety Magazine named him “One of 10 Comics to Watch in 2016.” Wood began his comedy career in 1998 at 19 while attending Florida A&M University. In 2006, he debuted on network television on The Late Show with David Letterman. In 2008, he appeared on HBO's historic Def Comedy Jam and was selected by America as one of the top three finalists on Last Comic Standing on NBC. He has appeared on Late Night with Seth Meyer, Conan, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.  He also performed on numerous USO Tours for our Troops stationed everywhere from Guam to Iraq to the Philippines.  At the height of the pandemic, Roy raised money for the displaced staff of comedy clubs through tipyourwaitstaff.com and Laugh Aid. In his hometown of Birmingham, Alabama, his philanthropic endeavors include supporting Workshops, Inc., which enriches lives by helping people with disabilities and other employment barriers achieve their vocational potential. The DUBS Baseball Academy is an investment in sports to change lives. STAIR of Birmingham, where tutoring empowers students to read better and dream bigger. Also, I See Me, Inc., where the mission is to dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline by increasing the literacy rates in children of color by engaging them in literature that reflects their culture and image. Always hosted by Marina Franklin - One Hour Comedy Special: Single Black Female ( Amazon Prime, CW Network), TBS's The Last O.G, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, Hysterical on FX, The Movie Trainwreck, Louie Season V, The Jim Gaffigan Show, Conan O'Brien, Stephen Colbert, HBO's Crashing, and The Breaks with Michelle Wolf. Writer for HBO's 'Divorce' and the new Tracy Morgan show on Paramount Plus: 'Crutch'.       

In this episode of Uncommon Sense with Ginny Robinson, I'm giving my take (to the best of my ability—because I'm not a tariff expert and neither are most of the people chiming in right now) on Trump's gutsy new tariff move. It's the one that's got half the country cheering and the other half clutching their pearls. While the media yells “economic suicide,” I'm here to suggest that this strategy might actually work—but not overnight. We'll talk about the possibility of long-term gain, the reality of short-term discomfort, and the cultural obsession with instant results when what's often required is patience. I will also go over our collective short attention spans and why longer attention spans are needed for understanding complex issues like this. Every answer won't fit in a 15 second soundbite. At the end of the day, we'll have to pray, wait, and see. Some of the smartest plays take time to unfold.—https://noblegoldinvestments.com/learn/gold-and-silver-guide/?utm_campaign=21243613394&utm_source=g&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=&utm_term=noble%20gold&seg_aprod=&ad_id=698073353663&oid=2&affid=1&utm_source=google&affiliate_source=googleads_brand_bmbc&utm_term=noble%20gold&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADQ2DzJSJ_mi5cJo8dO2FNUs7uNy-&gclid=CjwKCAjwktO_BhBrEiwAV70jXtjSCyioSM2Hz1McTAlR3f8t3KCDDN3-XBWLaIzwJmiEGe0ztxIk5RoCnM0QAvD_BwE

In this episode of the Change Africa podcast, host Isaac Aboah is joined by guest Ndubuisi Kejeh to explore the powerful role of storytelling in building global brands and driving transformation across the African continent.The conversation begins with exploring how narratives shape consumer behavior and brand identity. Ndubuisi highlights storytelling as a fundamental tool in marketing, company building, politics, and culture. Together, they examine the emotional core of consumerism, the success of global campaigns like Coca-Cola and Red Bull, and how African brands can learn from these models while maintaining authenticity.The dialogue touches on the economic opportunities tied to Afrobeats and African products, emphasizing that narrative-led strategies can help African entrepreneurs access global markets and change consumer perceptions. The discussion also critiques the venture capital model in Africa, arguing that it may not be fully suited to the continent's economic realities and calling for context-specific funding strategies.Beyond business, the episode explores storytelling's influence in politics, proposing that narrative can unify new political movements. The idea of a “third force” in African politics is discussed as a possibility powered by effective communication, leadership, and narrative cohesion.Ndubuisi and Isaac reflect on the moral dimension of marketing and influencer culture, advocating for a human-centered approach to influence and leadership. The episode ultimately affirms that storytelling is a catalytic force for reshaping Africa's image, inspiring entrepreneurship, and igniting collective belief in possibility.Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Change Africa Podcast01:01 – The Importance of Storytelling in Business02:12 – The Power of Narratives in Company Building05:52 – Successful Storytelling Campaigns12:01 – Mastering Consumer Goods and Brand Building18:48 – The Future of Consumerism and Morality22:31 – Critique of the Venture Capital Model in Africa29:56 – Economic Opportunities in Afrobeats and African Products32:33 – The Power of Storytelling in Politics39:39 – Creating a Third Force in African Politics43:32 – Building Global Brands from Africa50:08 – Perceptions and Branding Challenges in AfricaFurther Reading and ResourcesTo learn more about Ndubisi's venture builder, Mustard, and its story-led approach, visit their website. This podcast is a production of Nexa Media.Do you have a question for our hosts? Email us at changeafricapod@gmail.comFollow the podcast on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

President Donald Trump kicked off his second term with a wave of executive actions, including efforts to shrink the federal government by gutting or entirely dismantling some federal agencies. While some of these moves are unprecedented, it's not the first time a president has tried to unilaterally undermine a federal agency. Political scientist Ryan LaRochelle breaks down how President Richard Nixon attempted to shutter the Office of Economic Opportunity and the legal and political pushback he faced as a result. LaRochelle draws on this history to explain why presidents can't slash federal programs on their own and how public and congressional resistance can help keep agencies intact.  For more on this topic: Check out LaRochelle's opinion piece on Nixon's failed attempt to shut down the Office of Economic Opportunity in TIME Magazine. Read an opinion piece he co-authored with Luisa Deprez about fears over Trump's strategy to cut U.S. safety net programs in Common Dreams.

“This Is Uncomfortable” will be back in your feeds with brand new episodes in May, and in the meantime, we're sharing the first episode of “Unlocking the Gates,” a series from Marketplace and APM Studios hosted by special correspondent Lee Hawkins. He tells the story of how the Minnesota suburb he grew up in went from being a place where the housing market was inaccessible to Black families to one where many Black families found economic opportunity. And it all started with a nighttime business deal.

“This Is Uncomfortable” will be back in your feeds with brand new episodes in May, and in the meantime, we're sharing the first episode of “Unlocking the Gates,” a series from Marketplace and APM Studios hosted by special correspondent Lee Hawkins. He tells the story of how the Minnesota suburb he grew up in went from being a place where the housing market was inaccessible to Black families to one where many Black families found economic opportunity. And it all started with a nighttime business deal.

Today, we’re sharing the first episode of “Unlocking the Gates,” a series from Marketplace and APM Studios hosted by special correspondent Lee Hawkins. He tells the story of how the Minnesota suburb he grew up in went from being a place where the housing market was inaccessible to Black families to one where many Black families found economic opportunity. And it all started with a nighttime business deal.

Today, we’re sharing the first episode of “Unlocking the Gates,” a series from Marketplace and APM Studios hosted by special correspondent Lee Hawkins. He tells the story of how the Minnesota suburb he grew up in went from being a place where the housing market was inaccessible to Black families to one where many Black families found economic opportunity. And it all started with a nighttime business deal.