Podcasts about George Mason University

President Donald Trump's advisers are raging over a court ruling that temporarily blocked many of Trump's tariffs. Stephen Miller called it “judicial tyranny.” Another top adviser called the judges “globalist.” And press secretary Karoline Leavitt seethed that “unelected judges” have grown “dangerous.” While an appeals court did put a stay on the court ruling, letting the tariffs proceed for now, it's now overwhelmingly clear the tariffs are extremely vulnerable legally, and the whiplash in the courts only underscores what a fiasco of uncertainty Trump unleashed. Our trading partners now think their hand has been strengthened in trade talks, revealing more weakness. We talked to George Mason University's Ilya Somin, a lead lawyer for the challengers, about why the ruling is crushing for Trump's case, what it reveals about his broader abuses of power, and how he still can be stopped. Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a rebroadcast. The episode originally ran in August 2021. Jenny Reeder is a historian and writer, currently the nineteenth-century women's history specialist at the Church History Department in the publications division, and was one of the first historians hired to specialize in women's history. She holds a PhD in American history from George Mason University, specializing in women's history, religious history, memory, and material culture. She also holds degrees from Brigham Young University, Arizona State University, and New York University. Jenny served a mission in Italy and has served three times as a ward Relief Society president, including when she was in graduate school and fighting leukemia. Jenny has collaborated on several books about Latter-day Saint women's history and is the author of First: The Life and Faith of Emma Smith. Links First: The Life and Faith of Emma Smith A Place to Belong: Reflections from Modern Latter-day Saint Women The Witness of Women: Firsthand Experiences and Testimonies from the Restoration At the Pulpit: 185 Years of Discourses by Latter-day Saint Women Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Read the transcript of this podcast Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights 2:50 Writing her book about Emma Smith. Her goal was to write about her as a pillar of the Restoration and a significant founder of the Church with Joseph, and to make her a real woman and show how complicated her life was, her commitment, and her heartbreak. 5:20 So many members of the Church have been influenced to believe she was a fallen person because she did not come west with the other pioneers, but she retained her testimony and hers is a story of redemption. 7:45 Jenny's experience with cancer while serving as a Relief Society president during her time in graduate school at George Mason Participating in ward council from her hospital bed Visiting with less-active people and learning to receive service Sending emails and physical cards to people as she was prompted Finding her purpose outside of "not dying" 15:15 Serving is an opportunity to learn, serve, and receive revelation in way you haven't before, and this can be a blessing in a difficult time. 19:00 The goals of RS were to provide relief and save souls. She found relief for herself as she provided relief to others, and came to understand the Atonement on a deeper level. 21:00 Developing relationships that continue: maintaining relationships from her old ward has been powerful for everyone as they have rallied together to support each other through difficult times. 23:00 The Church was never really organized until the Relief Society was organized. Having women involved is significant and they have Priesthood authority in their stewardship. The most beneficial experience is when they are recognized for that leadership and allowed to do what they can. 27:00 Emma's instructions in Doctrine and Covenants Section 25 Emma struggled with her role to teach and had to learn how to lead In Nauvoo Relief Society, you had to apply for membership. It was a step toward being able to participate in temple ordinances. Emma's role in creating the hymnbook, and being the first woman to receive her endowment She was called to be a support for Joseph: significance of the words "comfort" and "office", and of leaving her family to go with him and to stay with him 36:50 The Relief Society was told to create offices to expand what they needed 39:00 Speaking up to have your voice heard: It was not normal for women to speak publicly in the 19th century, and even now women can be unaccustomed to speaking and leading Eliza R. Snow was asked to assist bishops and to instruct the sisters, but she was not accustomed to speaking out, but she learned how to do this and taught others how Relief Society was shut down and Eliza became the de facto Relief So...

In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Rose Pascarell, Vice President for University Life at George Mason University. We discuss the essential role of student affairs in creating a holistic college experience, her career journey rooted in service, and the need for adaptability in the ever-changing world of higher education. A must-listen for anyone in or exploring a career in higher ed! Shout Outs and Plugs Rose's LinkedIn Profile:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rose-pascarell-8444455a/ George Mason University Life Website: https://ulife.gmu.edu/ GMU University Life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masonulife/ If you have a question for the podcast call 571-336-6560 or leave a question via this Google Form. Five Minute Journal by Intelligent Change Affiliate Code: https://www.intelligentchange.com/?rfsn=4621464.017186 Tappy Card “Electronic Business Card” Affiliate Code:  https://tappycard.com?ref:philip-wilkerson Please leave a rating/review of the Podcast https://lovethepodcast.com/positivephilter Intro music provided by DJ BIGyoks. Check out his Instagram and Soundcloud channel can be found here:  https://www.instagram.com/beats.byyoks/ https://soundcloud.com/dj-bigyoks Outro music provided by Ryan Rosemond. Check out his Soundcloud channel here: https://soundcloud.com/brothersrosemond/albums  Purchase "Forty Years of Advice" by Philip Wilkerson: https://a.co/d/2qYMlqu Leave Your Feedback by filling out this audience survey: https://forms.gle/ncoNvWxMq2A6Zw2q8 Sign up for Positive Philter Weekly Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/g-LOqL Please follow Positive Philter: Positive Philter Facebook Page Positive Philter Twitter Positive Philter Instagram  If you would like to support the podcast, please consider donating to the Positive Philter Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/positivephilter Positive Philter was selected by FeedSpot as Top 20 Positive Thinking Podcasts on the web. https://blog.feedspot.com/positive_thinking_podcasts/ Jeff's Anti-Hunger Fund The Positive Philter Podcast is dedicated to Jeff Kirsch. A long-time supporter of the show and a major influence on this show's growth. Please support the careers of future advocates by donating to the Jeff Kirsch Fund for Anti-Hunger Advocacy. This fund was named after Jeff Kirsch for his decades of service in fighting hunger and inequality. Link to fund: https://frac.org/kirschfund Pats for Patriots  If you are a member of the #MasonNation, please consider sending a Pats for Patriots. Pats for Patriots are a free and easy way to thank, recognize, show appreciation for a Mason colleague or student who has taken the time to do something kind, generous or thoughtful towards others. For more information, visit: https://forms.office.com/r/HRZGvhdJEA We have received more than 2,000 nominations from the Mason community so far. Keep those nominations coming in!  

Mississippi is richer than France. No, really. The poorest U.S. state now has a higher GDP per person than France, the U.K., Italy, and Spain. How did that happen? Don't miss this eye-opening episode with George Mason University's Tyler Cowen. 

Can the president unilaterally impose tariffs under his emergency powers? In this webinar, legal scholars Ilya Somin, a professor at Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University who is co-counsel in the pending tariffs case VOS Selections v. Trump, and Walter Olson explore the constitutional and statutory limits of presidential authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and other statutes. They'll discuss President Trump's recent efforts to justify sweeping trade measures under IEEPA, examine the historical role of Congress in setting tariffs, and consider broader stakes for the separation of powers. Whether you're a lawyer, policymaker, or interested observer, this conversation will shed light on one of the most important trade and constitutional questions of our time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Like many musicians, Kerry started singing and performing when he was a kid in church. At age 7 he was singing solos in front of the entire congregation. Then came piano lessons to learn to read and write music. He really loved to sing though, so he concentrated on his vocals. He performed all throughout his school years, all the way up through college at George Mason University. The West Coast was calling him so in 1988 on a wing and a prayer he heads out to L.A.!! He settles in and meets some great musicians and starts to perform out there, singing in some experimental Rock bands like Acid Clown. In 1991 he came up with the concept of The Thrillbillyz and, along with the help of some great musician friends, was able to record a four song demo at Fox Studios in Glendale, CA and work with the owner/engineer Rich Fox. In 1993 ,after several years of performing around Southern California as The Thrillbillyz, Hurley moves back to the East Coast and his hometown of Roanoke, Virginia. Roanoke definitely is not as big of a market as L.A. but it has a growing music scene and Hurley jumps in head first. He re-forms The Thrillbillyz and starts playing shows like crazy. He continues to write and work on his originals and in 1994 takes his band into Flat Five Studios in Salem, VA and records the album “Romp!” and releases it in 1995. Ten of the eleven songs are originals and a few of the songs (Franklin County Moonshine & Sweet Leaf) wind up on the radio in regular rotation on the area's biggest Rock station 96.3 WROV. The band played constantly in support of it's record and through it's association with Buzz Casey and WROV was able to open up for quite a few National acts like Government Mule, Storyville, Foghat, Loverboy, Johnny Winter, Matchbox 20 and many more!!! The band played and enjoyed success for the next 5 years and in 2000 everyone went their own musical ways. Hurley had been singing on the side for a Blues band called Blues Hangover from 96 to 98 and traveled quite a bit with them, winning several Blues Contests and traveling to Memphis, TN in 97 to compete in the Blues Foundation's International Blues Challenge. It was a great learning experience. In 2001 Hurley wound up joining The Fat Daddy Band and that very same year went down and won the Charlotte Blues Society's contest and in 2002 went to Memphis again to represent them at the IBC and made it to the finals (one of ten bands out of 150). For the next 14 years he would front that band and continue to write songs. He put out 2 cd's with The Fat Daddy Band - “From The Soul”(2003) and “Live & Lovin' It!”(2005). 

Todd Kashdan is an intellectual idol of mine. He has a PhD in clinical psychology, is the founder of the Well-Being Lab at George Mason University, and a leading educator to the public. He's written books on curiosity, negative emotions, and the art of insubordination. His writings alone have influenced the trajectory of my life and career.In this episode, we explore the underpinnings of curiosity, how to manage social anxiety, and the reason relationships fail (and why that's okay). Check out Todd's Substack:https://toddkashdan.substack.com/Follow me and get coaching:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/josh_philwl/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/philosophicalweightlifting/Weightlifting House: code PHILWL for 10% off⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.weightliftinghouse.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Onyx: with code PHILWL for 10% off⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.onyxstraps.com/⁠

In this week's episode, Dustin sits down with Kathleen deLaski — author of Who Needs College Anymore? — to explore why the traditional four-year degree is no longer the only path to career success. Kathleen shares insights from her research on alternative learning models, highlights innovative colleges embracing change, and lays out a vision for an experience-first approach to higher ed. They tackle everything from AI's impact on entry-level jobs to the urgent need for affordability and new credentialing systems.Guest Name: Kathleen deLaski - Founder & Board Chair at Education Design LabGuest Social: LinkedInGuest Bio: Kathleen deLaski is an education and workforce designer, as well as an author. She founded the Education Design Lab in 2013 to help colleges begin the journey to reimagine higher education toward the future of work. Her nonprofit has helped 1,200 colleges, orgs and economic regions design shorter, more affordable pathways for learners to achieve their economic goals. Stepping down after a decade as CEO of the Lab, Kathleen serves as board chair there and on the board of Credential Engine. She spends time as a senior advisor to the Project on Workforce at Harvard University and teaches human-centered design and higher ed reform as an adjunct professor in the Honors College at George Mason University, where she also served as an appointee to the Board of Visitors. Kathleen has long played a dual role as a philanthropist, managing the deLaski Family Foundation, which has been a 25-year grant maker in education reform, well-being, sustainable agriculture, and the arts. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Dustin Ramsdellhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinramsdell/About The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.Attend the 2025 Engage Summit! The Engage Summit is the premier conference for forward-thinking leaders and practitioners dedicated to exploring the transformative power of AI in education. Explore the strategies and tools to step into the next generation of student engagement, supercharged by AI. You'll leave ready to deliver the most personalized digital engagement experience every step of the way.Register now to secure your spot in Charlotte, NC, on June 24-25, 2025! Early bird registration ends February 1st -- https://engage.element451.com/register

Are you curious about the true scope and scale of nonprofit employment in America? Ever wonder how nonprofit jobs weathered the pandemic compared to for-profit jobs? In this episode, host Rusty Stahl speaks with Dr. Alan J. Abramson and Chelsea Newhouse, both of George Mason University, about the numbers behind the nonprofit workforce, and their implications for funders, policymakers, and nonprofit leaders.The conversation reveals crucial facts about nonprofit employment based on George Mason's latest report. Abramson and Newhouse discuss how nonprofits lost 580,000 workers during the early pandemic but weathered the initial downturn better than for-profits. They explore common misconceptions about nonprofit funding and highlight how the sector has struggled to fully restore its workforce.Our guests introduce their Nonprofit Works, a free, user-friendly tool that provides high-level data about how many Americans earn a living through nonprofit work, and how much money nonprofits add to the economy in annual wages. The database allows users to segment this data by sub-sector and geography, and compare it to business and government jobs. The numbers are drawn from federal Department of Labor data, but the nonprofit employment data are published extremely infrequently, and only with help from scholars at a private, nonprofit university. Alan and Chelsea argue that better, more frequent releases of nonprofit workforce data – including relevant data collected by other federal agencies – would help nonprofit workers gain the visibility and support they deserve in public policy, the media, academic research, and among private funders.You can find all the episodes of this podcast plus our blog, toolkit and other resources at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠fundthepeople.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Bios:Alan J. Abramson is director of the Center on Nonprofits, Philanthropy, and Social Enterprise, in the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University. He teaches and conducts research on the nonprofit sector and philanthropy, and has worked to save and sustain work done at Johns Hopkins University by his late colleague, Dr. Lester Solomon. For more than a decade, Dr. Abramson directed the Aspen Institute's Nonprofit Sector and Philanthropy Program. Before that he worked at the Urban Institute. Alan is the author and coauthor of numerous books and articles, and is involved with multiple academic associations related to the nonprofit sector. Dr. Abramson received his PhD in political science from Yale University.Chelsea Newhouse is a consultant on the George Mason University' Nonprofit Employment Data Project and Senior Program Manager at East-West Management Institute. Prior to joining the East-West Management Institute in 2022, Chelsea was at the the Johns Hopkins Center for Civil Society Studies, where she worked closely with late Center Director Lester Salamon on the Nonprofit Economic Data Project and the Nonprofit Works Interactive Database, the Comparative Nonprofit Sector Project, and a variety of other research projects focused on the nonprofit, philanthropic, and volunteer sector. Following Dr. Salamon's passing, she helped transfer the Nonprofit Employment Data Project to George Mason University. Chelsea has also served as a consultant with Maryland Nonprofits and the New York Council of Nonprofits.Resources:GMU Center on Nonprofits, Philanthropy, and Social EnterpriseGMU Nonprofit Employment Project websiteGMU Nonprofit Works websiteDirect link to the 2024 Nonprofit Employment ReportA link to the UN TSE Sector Handbook project, which provides guidance and background on the nonprofit satellite accountJHU Center for Civil Society StudiesStanding Up for Nonprofits, a 2024 book on nonprofit advocacy that Ben Soskis and Alan Abramson wrote. It's available for free online from Cambridge University Press

Dr. Shea Bradley-Farrell, Ph.D. is a strategist in national security and foreign policy and president of Counterpoint Institute for Policy, Research, and Education in Washington, D.C. She is author of Last Warning to the West: Hungary's Triumph Over Communism and the Woke Agenda (Dec. 2023), endorsed by multiple high-level conservative leaders. Shea worked directly with the Trump administration (2016-2020) at the highest levels including at the White House, U.S. Department of State, and Senior Advisor Ivanka Trump, on multiple issues while serving as VP of International Affairs for Concerned Women for America. Shea also served as Professor and Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the Defense Security Cooperation University (DSCU) of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) for a Trump administration national security mandate; she possesses an active U.S. security clearance and executive-level certifications.  Shea works with multiple nations around the world at the highest senior levels of government to build U.S. relations and promote U.S. interests and security. Previously, she worked in international development focusing on economic development and research in the Middle East, Africa, and South America with donors including the U.S. Department of Labor, World Bank, Exxon, FedEx, and Kuwait Foundation for Advancement of Science.   Shea regularly publishes Op-eds in outlets such as RealClear Politics, Human Events, NewsMax, National Review, Daily Signal,  The Washington Times, The European Conservative,  Daily Caller, the Federalist and many others. She is a weekly guest on TV news and radio and presents to venues all around the world such as Wilson Center for International Scholars, Foreign Services Institute, the U.S. Dept. of State, the Heritage Foundation, CPAC Hungary and the Gulf Studies Symposium. Shea holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in International Development from Tulane University, where she was Adjunct Lecturer in the International Development Studies Program in 2015. She has served in a variety of other academic positions, including at the American University of Kuwait and George Mason University.FOLLOW Counterpoint Institute on X: @CounterpointDCFOLLOW Dr. Shea Bradley-Farrell on X: @DrShea_DCVISIT: https://www.counterpointinstitute.org/ORDER: https://www.amazon.com/Last-Warning-West-Hungarys-Communism/dp/6156476164

What role should the government play in small business owners economic life? It seems that with the Trump tariffs are at tax that the government is putting on all our lives, but should it just stay out of it?My next guests argue that that the evidence points to that  government interference and failed policies pose the most significant threat to economic freedom.Senator Phil Gramm served six years in the U.S. House of Representatives and eighteen years in the U.S. Senate where he was Chairman of the Banking Committee. Senator Gramm is a Visiting Scholar at the American Enterprise Institute.I also talk with Donald J. Boudreaux who is an American economist, author, professor, and co-director of the Program on the American  Economy and Globalization at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia.They have a new book called “The Triumph of Economic Freedom: Debunking the Seven Great Myths of American Capitalism”.Here is what we discussed:The genesis myth: the industrial revolution impoverished workersThe progressive era regulation: the myth and the history The myth that the great depression was a failure of capitalism The myth of trade hollowing out American manufacturing The financial crisis myth: deregulation caused the financial crisis The myth and reality of income inequality in America The myth that poverty is a failure of American capitalismBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-small-business-radio-show--3306444/support.

Bryan Caplan is a Professor of Economics at George Mason University, and New York Times Bestselling author.Book discussed: Pro-Market AND Pro-Business: Essays on Laissez-Faire: https://a.co/d/4lqJA86/// Keith Knight - Don't Tread on Anyone ///Domestic Imperialism: Nine Reasons I Left Progressivism: https://libertarianinstitute.org/books/domestic-imperialism-nine-reasons-i-left-progressivism/ The Voluntaryist Handbook: https://libertarianinstitute.org/books/voluntaryist-handbook/

ABOUT CLAIRE CODER:BIO: Claire Coder (Forbes 30under30) is a 28-year-old Thiel Fellow and founder and CEO of Aunt Flow. On a mission to make the world better for people with periods, Aunt Flow stocks public bathrooms with freely accessible tampons and pads. Through Claire's leadership, Aunt Flow launched patented tampon & pad dispensers in 60k+ bathrooms and raised $17m+ in venture capital. Coder launched her first company at age 16, designed a bag for Vera Bradley that sold out in 24 hours, and has her own line of GIFs. After getting her period in public without the supplies she needed, at 18 years old, Claire dedicated her life to developing a solution to ensure businesses and schools can sustainably provide quality period products for free in public bathrooms. Since 2016, Aunt Flow has worked with thousands of businesses and schools, including organizations like Google, Princeton University, Netflix, and 30+ professional sports stadiums, to offer freely accessible period product dispensers, filled with organic cotton tampons and pads. Aunt Flow has donated over 7 million organic cotton tampons and pads to menstruators in need since 2021. Claire's ultimate goal in life is for any menstruator to walk into any bathroom and never need to worry if they start their period, because Aunt Flow period products are freely available!Claire's story has been featured in TeenVogue, Forbes, Fortune, and she starred in TLC's Girl Starter Season 1. Claire speaks regularly surrounding her advocacy work, starting a social enterprise and journey as a female founder. For more information, please visit LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clairecoder/ Websites:clairecoder.com (Personal)goauntflow.com (Company)SHOW INTROWelcome to the NXTLVL Experience Design podcast.EPISODE 78 … and my conversation with Claire Coder the Founder and CEO of Aunt Flow. On the podcast our dynamic dialogues based on our acronym DATA - design, architecture, technology, and the arts crosses over disciplines but maintains a common thread of people who are passionate about the world we live in and human's influence on it, the ways we craft the built environment to maximize human experience, increasing our understanding of human behavior and searching for the New Possible.    The NXTLVL Experience Design podcast is presented by VMSD Magazine part of the Smartwork Media family of brands.VMSD brings us, in the brand experience world, the International Retail Design Conference. The IRDC is one of the best retail design conferences that there is bringing together the world of retailers, brands and experience place makers every year for two days of engaging conversations and pushing the discourse forward on what makes retailing relevant. You will find the archive of the NXTLVL Experience Design podcast on VMSD.com.Thanks also goes to Shop Association the only global retail trade association dedicated to elevating the in-store experience. SHOP Association represents companies and affiliates from 25 countries and brings value to their members through research, networking, education, events and awards. Check then out on SHOPAssociation.orgWhen Claire Coder was 18 years old she was at an event and she used a public restroom. While there, she discovered that she had unexpectedly started her period. And… she didn't have a quarter. Why she would have needed a quarter and what happened as a result of not having one is the subject of an exceptional entrepreneurial trajectory that has changed woman's public bathrooms around the country.We'll get to all of that in a moment but first though, a few thoughts…                 *                                  *                                  *What if you had an amazing idea that you knew was a no-brainer, an idea that provided something deeply necessary, but it seemed that everyone had overlooked it.What if you had a moment of insight from a personal experience that chartered out a clear path for providing a product and service that seemed to satisfy the deeply under met needs of more than 50% of the population?And what if when you took this moment of clear mental insight to a group of venture capitalists explaining that this was not just an idea that would not only satisfy a certain customer need but that could be an extraordinarily profitable business operation but when you asked for their involvement, they simply said… “NO”.And what if you heard “NO” 86 times when trying to get people interested in supporting your idea. Would you give up? Would you have already given up after the 1st or 10th or 50th “NO”? And what if you happened to be an 18-year-old young woman with this vision and enthusiasm and the subject of your VC pitches dealt with menstruation and woman's public bathrooms... How far do you think that would have gotten you?I could focus in on this intro by talking about the thing that we don't talk about, at least as a guy I can't imagine me and my guy friends would have ever talked about…as a teen, young man or frankly even today.Which is to say… women and monthly periods. I could focus in on this somewhat taboo subject of a naturally occurring bodily function that we somehow sweep under the social discourse carpet, despite that more than 50% of the population has one every single month. Or I could talk about the strange discomfort that comes up because somehow, we've made this discussion something to be ashamed about or talked only about between mothers and grandmothers and their daughters. The strange irony here is that the other 49.53% of the North American population will end up living with, perhaps marrying and having children with the 50+ percent of the population who has their period every single month and yet, we'd prefer not to talk about it…But, if I did focus on those subjects, which by the way are not unimportant to talk about, it would potential we derail another story about a passion for entrepreneurship and the overwhelming need to address the needs of a population who are wholly unserved.It takes a lot of guts to be an entrepreneur. Being an entrepreneur is not easy. In fact, there are a lot of people who would say you'd simply have a few screws loose to actually want to be an entrepreneur.It's highly risky and you carry an extraordinary amount of responsibility. Everything from fundraising and decision-making, planning operations, accepting both successes and failures.When the entire enterprise is your baby, and relies on you as the key driver of the big idea, it can be incredibly emotionally taxing. The working hours can be extraordinary too. If we think that an average work week is neatly packed into 40 hours, an entrepreneur may end up spending twice or maybe even three times that amount in trying to get their business off the ground...and there's constant pressure to keep on pushing forward. One success does not necessarily guarantee the next and so there's this cycle of continuing to push and to make forward strides create product extensions and to expand the brand footprint that is unrelenting. This is especially true if folks have lent you money to get your big idea off the ground.There's also a great degree of isolation that can emerge on the entrepreneurial path. You, and often you alone, are focused on birthing your brainchild, developing it and bringing it to market. This ‘child rearing', if you will, often happens in times of extraordinary uncertainty and ambiguity. In the current state of the world we live in today, ambiguity is the name of the game. What with the pace of change exponentially increasing, government shifting the rules of the game with tariffs and regulations, funding cuts and banning more that 250 words that according to PEN AMERICA are no longer considered acceptable including:advocacy, abortion, all-inclusive, biologically female, community equity, DEI, female, inclusive, sex, sexuality, vulnerable populations, and woman or women, just to name a few. So if your big idea is squarely focused on women, menstruation and period products, I would imagine it's tricky.So, this means that you have to be built for understanding the pace of change the ability to flex and move and be resilient when things don't happen to go your way. Like for example if you are launching a new product line and a COVID pandemic hits that effectively shuts your business down.You could stop and pack up shop and be done or you could be resilient and change direction asking ‘what do people need right now?, and turn what you thought was going to be a business into a completely different thing that was not at all what you had planned in the 1st place.As an entrepreneur, you also have to wear many hats. You are at the same time the company owner, marketing and sales rep. You're dealing with HR issues, product design and materials sourcing and assortment planning.You're often doing customer service and trying to keep them satisfied while dealing with shipments that go missing or supply chains that get disrupted, because of say tariffs, for example, when your products were coming from out of the country and all of a sudden now they are more expensive than you had anticipated.And you have to be good, I mean really good, at dealing with rejection and failure.Most entrepreneurs face repeated setbacks, investor rejections, failed launches or people who just don't get what you're trying to deliver - or straight out don't like what you're trying to deliver - and reject your product and actively work against you to shut you down.Resilience and a sense of purpose when faced with strong headwinds is an absolutely essential feature of being an entrepreneur.You want to become an entrepreneur? Then you had better show up at the game with a load of mad skills so that you can weather the multiple impending storms.Now… don't get me wrong, it's not all doom and gloom. It's not all uphill struggles like Sisyphus pushing a rock up a hill only to have it roll back down again.Entrepreneurship can be incredibly rewarding. It can bring something that you are passionate about into the world. Maybe it's something that had never existed before. Maybe it satisfies the need that is self-evident but others just haven't seen it yet. But to play in the arena of entrepreneurship you need to be able to recover from failures and keep moving forward regardless of whatever the setbacks were.Because they are inevitable.No one skates happily through entrepreneurship and starting a company without stuff just going off the rails from time to time. And that requires an amazing amount of intrinsic motivation and drive. You've got to be able to get up every morning and go get it. And you've got to be able to get up and do it without anyone behind you saying ‘go team go” pushing you to do it every single day.You might need an accountability buddy. That would be good.  But in the absence of that person or group, you need to be able to be incredibly disciplined and willing to get back in the ring every day.You also have to have a certain level of risk tolerance. In fact, I would say you probably have to have a very high level of risk tolerance. No one in the entrepreneurial world makes it by being a wallflower; by being risk adverse and not wanting to step out into traffic and navigate all of the oncoming traffic.And while dancing your way through the crosswalk in oncoming traffic, you have to be pretty flexible and be willing to pivot in an oftentimes volatile environment. You also have to believe in your vision and have a well-crafted strategy to get you to the top of the mountain.Successful entrepreneurs can generally see a much bigger picture than other people. They see opportunities where others simply see closed doors and that often means when hearing “no” you don't implode like the Wicked Witch of the West when water was thrown on her, but you ask questions. Not just questions about ‘why?' but also ‘why not?'.You have to be conspicuously curious and have a compulsion to keep on asking questions, never being satisfied with the status quo.Your interpersonal skills also have to be incredibly well honed. You have to be good at networking, slapping backs, shaking hands and making people feel like they're the only people in the room who matter to you. You've got to be good at networking and pitching and you have to be an incredibly good leader which suggests that you have to be an effective communicator and be emotionally tapped in. Your EQ, as well as your IQ, has to be highly tuned.You have to carry a certain level of confidence without being arrogant.You have to believe in your ideas while staying open to feedback; weeding out what is good commentary and bad commentary.…what allows you to maintain a connection to your brand story and the products or services you believe need to be brought to market while at the same time always finding a balance between taking in what people say as constructive criticism and dismissing other commentary that doesn't seem to fit or takes you off track and away from your vision.And all of this brings us to the story of Claire Coder who at 18 years old goes into a public bathroom at an event and discovers she started her period.In an effort to have period products that met her in her moment of need, she goes to a dispenser on the wall and discovers that in order to get a tampon or pad she has to have quarter and who really carries quarters around in their pocket anymore?  At that moment Claire is faced with accepting the only option available which is to go to the free roll of toilet paper on the bathroom stall and create a makeshift tampon.At that moment Claire decides that if toilet paper and paper towel are offered at no cost in public bathrooms why should tampons and pads cost $0.25.? and why is it that the box on the wall, that has likely been there for decades and that may likely not work in any case, an acceptable solution?Claire Coder was selected as one of Forbes 30under30 and is the 28-year-old founder and CEO of Aunt Flow. On a mission to make the world better for people with periods, Aunt Flow stocks public bathrooms with freely accessible tampons and pads. Through Claire's leadership, Aunt Flow launched patented tampon & pad dispensers in 60k+ bathrooms, 150 universities, 600 schools, 28 Fortune 500 company's offices and raised $17m+ in venture capital.After getting her period in public without the supplies she needed, at 18 years old, Claire dedicated her life to developing a solution to ensure businesses and schools can sustainably provide quality period products for free in public bathrooms.Since 2016, Aunt Flow has worked with thousands of businesses and schools, including organizations like Google, Princeton University, Netflix, and 30+ professional sports stadiums, to offer freely accessible period product dispensers, filled with organic cotton tampons and pads. Aunt Flow has donated over 7 million organic cotton tampons and pads to menstruators in need since 2021. Claire's ultimate goal in life is for any menstruator to walk into any bathroom and never need to worry if they start their period, because Aunt Flow period products are freely available! Claire Coder was the opening keynote presenter at SHOP Marketplace 2025 and I caught up with her after her presentation to have a chat…ABOUT DAVID KEPRON:LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/david-kepron-9a1582bWebsites:  https://www.davidkepron.com    (personal website)vmsd.com/taxonomy/term/8645  (Blog)Email: david.kepron@NXTLVLexperiencedesign.comPersonal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidkepron/NXTLVL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nxtlvl_experience_design/Bio:David Kepron is a multifaceted creative professional with a deep curiosity to understand ‘why', ‘what's now' and ‘what's next'. He brings together his background as an architect, artist, educator, author, podcast host and builder to the making of meaningful and empathically-focused, community-centric customer connections at brand experience places around the globe. David is a former VP - Global Design Strategies at Marriott International. While at Marriott, his focus was on the creation of compelling customer experiences within Marriott's “Premium Distinctive” segment which included: Westin, Renaissance, Le Meridien, Autograph Collection, Tribute Portfolio, Design Hotels and Gaylord hotels. In 2020 Kepron founded NXTLVL Experience Design, a strategy and design consultancy, where he combines his multidisciplinary approach to the creation of relevant brand engagements with his passion for social and cultural anthropology, neuroscience and emerging digital technologies. As a frequently requested international speaker at corporate events and international conferences focusing on CX, digital transformation, retail, hospitality, emerging technology, David shares his expertise on subjects ranging from consumer behaviors and trends, brain science and buying behavior, store design and visual merchandising, hotel design and strategy as well as creativity and innovation. In his talks, David shares visionary ideas on how brand strategy, brain science and emerging technologies are changing guest expectations about relationships they want to have with brands and how companies can remain relevant in a digitally enabled marketplace. David currently shares his experience and insight on various industry boards including: VMSD magazine's Editorial Advisory Board, the Interactive Customer Experience Association, Sign Research Foundation's Program Committee as well as the Center For Retail Transformation at George Mason University.He has held teaching positions at New York's Fashion Institute of Technology (F.I.T.), the Department of Architecture & Interior Design of Drexel University in Philadelphia, the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising (L.I.M.) in New York, the International Academy of Merchandising and Design in Montreal and he served as the Director of the Visual Merchandising Department at LaSalle International Fashion School (L.I.F.S.) in Singapore.  In 2014 Kepron published his first book titled: “Retail (r)Evolution: Why Creating Right-Brain Stores Will Shape the Future of Shopping in a Digitally Driven World” and he is currently working on his second book to be published soon. David also writes a popular blog called “Brain Food” which is published monthly on vmsd.com.  The next level experience design podcast is presented by VMSD magazine and Smartwork Media. It is hosted and executive produced by David Kepron. Our original music and audio production by Kano Sound. The content of this podcast is copywrite to David Kepron and NXTLVL Experience Design. Any publication or rebroadcast of the content is prohibited without the expressed written consent of David Kepron and NXTLVL Experience Design.Make sure to tune in for more NXTLVL “Dialogues on DATA: Design Architecture Technology and the Arts” wherever you find your favorite podcasts and make sure to visit vmsd.com and look for the tab for the NXTLVL Experience Design podcast there too.

The White House has been boasting that President Trump's partial pause in the trade war with China is a historic breakthrough. But two new reports, one from The New York Times and the other from the non-liberal Wall Street Journal editorial page, neatly expose what a monstrous scam this notion truly is, in and of itself. As they detail, Trump has put the global economy through major turmoil and uncertainty, but without winning any serious concessions from China. This will get worse for Trump: In addition to being terrible policy, the tariffs are a massive abuse of power. And once the lawsuits against them get going, this, too, will be fully aired out. We spoke to George Mason University law professor Ilya Somin, who's helping spearhead one of the most important legal challenges. He explains why the tariffs are on weak legal ground, what the prospects are for reversing them, and how they reflect a much deeper lawlessness on Trump's part.  Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the wake of 2020's seismic shifts in public perception, police agencies across the country are reevaluating their strategies for preventing crime. While reactive policing still dominates the landscape, there's growing recognition that proactive strategies — built on research, precision and community engagement — offer a more sustainable path forward. In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, host Jim Dudley sits down with one of the leading voices in evidence-based policing to discuss how officers and agencies can move beyond fear and resistance and toward effective, proactive crime reduction. Dr. Cynthia Lum is a former Baltimore police officer turned professor of criminology, law and society, and director of George Mason University's Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy. A national leader in translating research into practice, Dr. Lum discusses how police can break away from outdated “toolkits” and instead build smarter, more strategic approaches to patrol. She emphasizes that proactive policing isn't about doing more stops — it's about doing the right work in the right way, backed by data and shaped by mentoring, organizational support and critical thinking. About our sponsor This episode of the Policing Matters podcast is sponsored by OfficerStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting OfficerStore.com.

The White House has been boasting that President Trump's partial pause in the trade war with China is a historic breakthrough. But two new reports, one from The New York Times and the other from the non-liberal Wall Street Journal editorial page, neatly expose what a monstrous scam this notion truly is, in and of itself. As they detail, Trump has put the global economy through major turmoil and uncertainty, but without winning any serious concessions from China. This will get worse for Trump: In addition to being terrible policy, the tariffs are a massive abuse of power. And once the lawsuits against them get going, this, too, will be fully aired out. We spoke to George Mason University law professor Ilya Somin, who's helping spearhead one of the most important legal challenges. He explains why the tariffs are on weak legal ground, what the prospects are for reversing them, and how they reflect a much deeper lawlessness on Trump's part.  Looking for More from the DSR Network? Click Here: https://linktr.ee/deepstateradio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Hayek Program Podcast, Peter Boettke reflects on the lessons he's learned throughout his academic career, focusing on what it takes to succeed after graduate school. Boettke encourages graduates to: value the scientific pursuit of truth and scholarship; cultivate a sense of awe, wonderment, surprise, and appreciation; and to be curious. He cautions against prioritizing cleverness over clarity and emphasizes the need to continually adapt and adjust. Persistence and hard work pays off. Try to pursue ideas, not people. Don't be inept and don't be lazy. Pay attention to details. Be a productive member of your department. Produce research that is genuinely interesting and of intrinsic value to your academic peers. Try to be a life changing professor. Work with good people who challenge you and find that network which insists on lifelong learning, one where you can harshly criticize one another then go have a beer together. Boettke highlights the ongoing work of the liberal project, arguing that liberalism is not a fixed doctrine, it's an emancipatory project. Liberalism begins with a very strong recognition of oppression, but it brings a promise of deliverance. Because language and problems change over time, liberalism must be restated in the language and concepts of successive generations. He argues that the worst thing that can happen to a good cause is not to be artfully criticized, but to be ineptly defended.Peter Boettke is a Distinguished University Professor of Economics and Philosophy at George Mason University and Director of the F.A. Hayek Program for Advanced Study in Philosophy, Politics and Economics at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. He has published numerous books including The Socialist Calculation Debate: Theory, History, and Contemporary Relevance (2024), Money and the Rule of Law: Generality and Predictability in Monetary Institutions (2021), Living Economics: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow (2012), and Challenging Institutional Analysis and Development: The Bloomington School (2009).If you like the show, please subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and tell others about the show! We're available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and wherever you get your podcasts.Virtual Sentiments, a podcast series from the Hayek Program, is streaming. Subscribe today and listen to season three, releasing now!Follow the Hayek Program on Twitter: @HayekProgramLearn more about Academic & Student ProgramsFollow the Mercatus Center on Twitter: @mercatusCC Music: Twisterium

Today's guest is Kathleen deLaski, author of the thought-provoking new book: Who Needs College Anymore? Imagining A Future Where Degrees Won't Matter. Kathleen spent 20 years as a journalist, including time as an ABC News White House correspondent. In the second half of her career, she has focused on education reform, cofounding or founding several national nonprofits, notably the Education Design Lab, which led her toward this book. After stepping down as president to become board chair, Kathleen also spends time as a senior advisor to the Project on Workforce at Harvard University and teaches human-centered design and higher ed reform as an adjunct professor at George Mason University. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly e-newsletter on education entrepreneurship and innovation at edentrepreneur.org.

The war in Ukraine entered its fourth year in February. Despite intense efforts by the Trump administration to reach a peace deal soon, there is no clear end in sight. While President Trump is advocating for an immediate peace settlement with Russia to end the bloodshed, Türkiye has emerged as a credible intermediary between the warring parties. The U.S. recently signed an economic agreement with Ukraine, intertwining American interests with Ukraine's postwar future. While Russia appears in no rush to reach a final settlement as it declared four additional Ukrainian regions must be under its control in a potential deal, Ukraine remains unwilling to compromise its territorial integrity in any eventual settlement. The SETA Foundation at Washington DC is pleased to host a distinguished panel of experts to examine the key factors that could shape or obstruct a peace deal in Ukraine.  SpeakersLuke Coffey, Senior Fellow, Center on Europe and Eurasia, Hudson Institute  Ambassador John E. Herbst, Senior Director, Eurasia Center, Atlantic Council Mark N. Katz, Professor Emeritus of Government and Politics, Schar School of Policy and Government, George Mason University and Nonresident Scholar, Atlantic Council ModeratorKilic Kanat, Research Director, The SETA Foundation at Washington DC

Jessica Hyde from Hexordia joins the Forensic Focus Podcast to discuss her unique journey from Marine Corps avionics technician to digital forensics expert. Jessica shares how her military background provided transferable skills for forensic investigations, emphasizing the importance of documentation, troubleshooting, and diverse perspectives in finding truth in digital evidence. The conversation explores critical topics including IoT forensics challenges, the urgent need for timely data acquisition before evidence degrades, and the role of AI in forensic analysis. Jessica also discusses her experience teaching at George Mason University since 2016, how students' questions enhance her own knowledge, and why interdisciplinary teams create better forensic outcomes. With candid reflections on maintaining perspective while handling difficult cases and thoughts on the future challenges of policy and law keeping pace with technology, this episode offers valuable insights for both seasoned professionals and those new to digital forensics. #DigitalForensics #MobileForensics #CyberInvestigation #DFIR #AI 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:02 Jessica Hyde's Unique Career Path 03:06 Transition to Digital Forensics 13:17 Teaching and Learning in Digital Forensics 20:12 Hands-On Forensics and IoT Devices 24:19 The Importance of Interdisciplinary Teams 27:12 Humor and Levity in Forensics 29:38 The Role of Cyber Investigators 31:07 Bias in Cyber Investigations 32:01 Generational Perspectives in Technology 33:51 Privacy Concerns in Digital Forensics 36:53 The Importance of Timely Data Acquisition 44:28 Challenges with AI in Digital Forensics 54:42 Policy and Legal Challenges in Digital Forensics 56:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Show Notes Hexordia - https://www.hexordia.com George Mason University - https://dfor.gmu.edu/person/jessica-l-hyde SWGDE - https://www.swgde.org  

An audio of Ilya Somin's Just Security article, which has become more topical by the day. The title: "What Just Happened: The Invasion Executive Order and Its Dangerous Implications." Somin is a Professor at the Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University, the B. Kenneth Simon Chair in Constitutional Studies at the Cato Institute, and author of Free to Move: Foot Voting, Migration and Political Freedom (Oxford University Press).

#TAIWAN: EVER THREATENED. Gerrit van der Wees, adjunct professor at George Washington University's Elliott School of Foreign Affairs and George Mason University Schar School of Government. 1959 MAO

Months after the Boston Massacre, British Americans calling themselves "Regulators" launch a rebellion in western North Carolina that threatens to engulf the colony in revolution and civil war. Featuring: Abby Chandler, Marjoleine Kars, Cynthia Kierner, and Nathan Schultz. Voice Actors: Sarah Donelson, Evan McCormick, Norman Rodger, John Terry, and Peter Walker.  Narrated by Dr. Jim Ambuske. Music by Artlist.io This episode was made possible with support from a 2024 grant from the National Endowment of the Humanities.  Help other listeners find the show by leaving a 5-Star Rating and Review on Apple, Spotify, Podchaser, or our website. Follow the series on Facebook or Instagram. Worlds Turned Upside Down is a production of R2 Studios at the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media at George Mason University.

In episode 122 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and James Young discuss the role of community, social innovation, and problem-solving in nonprofit leadership. They explore  how organizations can foster meaningful collaboration,  move beyond traditional silos, and embrace an interdisciplinary approach to tackling complex challenges.  the importance of balancing expertise with curiosity,  strengthening both bonding and bridging social capital, and designing intentional community experiences that drive impact.  Together, they reflect on how associations and nonprofits can evolve to meet the shifting needs of their members and society at large.   Episode highlights: [00:09:45] Social Innovation as a Driving Force [00:012:00] Navigating Uncertainty While Staying Grounded in Mission [00:13:22] Learning Communities and Interdisciplinary Problem-Solving [00:16:48] The Role of Expertise and Curiosity in Leadership [00:19:08] The Messiness of Community and Building Trust [00:21:20] Conditions for Successful Communities [00:23:03] The Importance of Bridging Capital in Building Inclusive Networks [00:26:24] Lessons from the Past: Can We Rebuild Community Engagement? [00:33:10] Rethinking Association and Nonprofit Models [00:37:45] Designing Organizations for Connection and Problem-Solving [00:41:28] Invitation to Nonprofit Leaders: Permission to Forgive Ourselves   Guest Bio: James Young is founder and chief learning officer of the Product Community and writes a weekly newsletter called The Innovative Association. Jim is a leading thinker in the worlds of associations, learning communities, and product development. Prior to starting the product community, he served as senior vice president for education and chief learning officer at the American College of Chest Physicians and chief learning officer at the Society of College and University Planning. He earned a PhD at George Mason University, a masters at the University of Michigan, and a bachelors at Michigan State University. Important Links and Resources: James Young Product Community Byers Young Group Bowling Alone The Upswing Join or Die   Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol's newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting

Conversation with Phil Magness -- Trade & Tariffs | Yaron Brook ShowPhillip W. Magness is a Senior Fellow at the Independent Institute and the David J. Theroux Chair in Political Economy. He has served as Senior Research Fellow at the American Institute for Economic Research, and as Academic Program Director at the Institute for Humane Studies and Adjunct Professor of Public Policy in the School of Public Policy and Government at George Mason University. He received his Ph.D. from George Mason University's School of Public Policy.

0:00 - Axios' Alex Thompson, award recipient at WHCA dinner, spins the "errors" committed by press on Biden mental capacity 12:44 - Homan: if you impede, you will be prosecuted 30:24 - The Kiffness: Vote4Pets Tour 33:18 - SPORTS & POLITICS 50:04 - Gov Pritzker is trying to change Texas BLUE 01:08:51 - In-depth History with Frank from Arlington Heights 01:11:05 - Scott McKay, publisher of the Hayride & senior editor at the American Spectator, lauds Trump's first 100 days in office. Check out Scott’s novels King Of The Jungle & From Hellmarsh With Love 01:30:00 - President at Wirepoints, Ted Dabrowski: Not a single child tested proficient in math in 80 Illinois schools. Get Ted’s latest wirepoints.org 01:43:42 - Daniel B. Klein, professor of economics at George Mason University, explains why Trump should fight globalism, not globalisation. Check out Dan’s most recent book Misinformation Is a Word We Use to Shut You Up 02:02:27 - Rafael Mangual, senior fellow and head of research for the Manhattan Institute’s Policing and Public Safety Initiative: The Left Keeps Getting It Wrong on Crime. Get Raf’s most recent book Criminal (In)Justice: What the Push for Mass-Decarceration and Depolicing Gets Wrong, and Who It Hurts Most.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!Devin: What is your superpower?Doug: LoveClimate change solutions can sometimes feel either too small to matter or too big to engage with individually. That's why World Tree's innovative approach to carbon capture through a remarkable natural technology, the Empress Splendor tree, stands out.Doug Willmore, CEO of World Tree, explained on today's episode how their model leverages the fastest growing hardwood tree in the world to address climate change while creating real economic opportunities. "World Tree represents the most complex, technologically advanced carbon capture system on the planet, and it's called a tree," Doug said. "It's the fastest growing hardwood tree in the world... and will have a 60-foot tall tree within eight to ten years."What sets World Tree apart is not only the speed and effectiveness of its tree-based carbon capture, but also the company's commitment to sustainable, long-term impact. When harvested, the Empress Splendor trees regrow from the stump, offering five harvests from a single planting. The lumber is used to create high-value products like musical instruments and furniture, locking away carbon for generations.In addition to their environmental impact, World Tree is making waves in the investment world. The company is currently raising capital through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign, allowing individual investors to participate directly in their annual "vintages" of tree plantings. Doug noted, "Little old World Tree has partnered with now 370 small farmers and 1,500 small investors over these nine years. The value of the assets that we have planted: more than $300 million."The EcoTree program offers a triple-bottom-line impact: profits for farmers, returns for investors, and massive climate benefits for the planet. "We call it putting your money where your heart is," Doug shared.Investors can participate in World Tree's EcoTree program by visiting ecotreeprogram.com. It offers a powerful opportunity to align investments with values while potentially earning attractive returns.Today's episode showcases how climate solutions can be tangible, accessible, and profitable, thanks to innovative models like World Tree.tl;dr:World Tree uses the Empress Splendor tree to capture carbon and create valuable long-lasting products.CEO Doug Willmore shares how World Tree partners with small farmers and investors for mutual benefit.World Tree is raising capital through regulated crowdfunding, offering individuals a way to invest in climate solutions.Doug identifies his superpower as "love," applying trust, passion and positivity in leadership and business.Doug encourages embracing love, possibility and trust to build more impactful and fulfilling professional relationships.How to Develop Love As a SuperpowerDoug Willmore defines his superpower as "love." He explained in today's episode that love is "the most underused word in business" and emphasized its importance not just in ideas but in people, partnerships and daily work. Doug shared, "Love shows up when you dwell on possibility... it's love of people, love of the things you get to wake up and do every day." He noted that truly loving your goals and the work you do ensures the resilience needed to weather difficult times.Doug illustrated this superpower with the story of how he joined World Tree. After a successful career in healthcare and public service, Doug was drawn back into the private sector by his passion for fighting climate change. When he met Wendy Burton, World Tree's founder, they "fell in love" — not romantically, but with each other's vision and mission. Doug emphasized that their shared love for the idea of scaling a nature-based climate solution became the foundation for building a thriving organization that now manages over $300 million worth of trees.Doug offered actionable tips for developing love as a strength:Look for reasons to say "yes" rather than "no" in business decisions.Dwell on possibility instead of focusing immediately on barriers.Choose to trust people and give them opportunities to succeed.Stay connected to the passion behind your goals to maintain motivation.Avoid letting money-driven decisions crowd out purpose and heart.By following Doug's example and advice, you can make love a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileDoug Willmore (he/him):CEO, World TreeAbout World Tree: World Tree is focused on nature-based solutions to some of our biggest global challenges. We develop carbon forestry projects for the purpose of native forest protection, renewable timber production and carbon sequestration.World Tree funnels private capital into the regeneration of undervalued farmland through Empress-based forestry.Our goals are to:- Build the value and improve productivity of under-utilized farmland- Create robust returns for investors and landowners- Introduce a new, sustainable hardwood lumber to the U.S. market.- Protect and rebuild eco-systems through regenerative farming practices- Generate nature-based carbon offsets to tackle the climate crisisWorld Tree employs regenerative farming practices that restore ecosystem function, soils, and biodiversity. These practices serve as the foundation for our ultimate goal to restore and reforest millions of acres of land into productive agroforestry landscapes.Website: worldtree.ecoCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/WorldTreeEcoOther URL: ecotreeprogram.comBiographical Information: Doug Willmore is the Chief Executive Officer of World Tree – an international agroforestry company providing large scale solutions to climate change.Doug has had an accomplished career in both the public and private sectors. Previously, Doug was chosen to lead the turnaround at the City of Bell, CA after the disastrous administrative scandal that left the City on the verge of bankruptcy. After almost three years at the helm, the City of Bell had fully recovered financially. Prior to that, Doug was the Chief Administrative Officer of Salt Lake County, UT for 6 ½ years. He managed more than 4000 employees and an annual budget of more than $800M. He also led the County during the financial downturn of 2008, and producing one of the most amazing public finance success stories of the great recession in the US according to Standard and Poor's.Doug is also the former Chief Executive Officer of Reference Pathology Services – a leading research pathology laboratory. Doug led the growth of the company before its sale to Ameripath, Inc. He also worked for USAID in Central America for three years earlier in his career, and has also been a sought-after consultant in breakthrough performance to Fortune 100 companies. He has a BS in Public Administration from George Mason University and a Master's Degree in Public Administration from the University of Utah.Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/WorldTreeEcoLinkedin: linkedin.com/company/world-tree-technologies-incInstagram Handle: @worldtree.eco Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Make Money with Impact Crowdfunding, SuperCrowdLA and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperCrowdLA: we're going to be live in Santa Monica, California, May 1-3. Plan to join us for a major, in-person event focused on scaling impact. Sponsored by Digital Niche Agency, ProActive Real Estate and others. This will be a can't-miss event. Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!  Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on May 20, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, May 21, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, Champion of Social Good and CEO of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "The Secret to Higher Investment Returns via Impact Crowdfunding." He'll share powerful strategies and real-world examples that show how aligning your investments with your values can lead to strong financial and social returns. If you're an investor looking to maximize impact or curious about the growing world of impact crowdfunding, this is a session you won't want to miss! Don't miss it!SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We'll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we'll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Crowdfunding Addict: Lessons Learned from a Year of Daily Investments, Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe

Associate Professor and Founding Director of The Race, Politics, and Policy Center at George Mason University, Dr. Michael K. Fauntroy, gives his take on the future of the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture and the court's latest decision to block the President from withholding school funds over DEI programs.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.

Matty Dalrymple talks with Art Taylor about WRITING SHORT, including common challenges faced by novelists transitioning to short stories. Art emphasizes the importance of economy, efficiency, and focus; shares practical advice on trimming word count while maintaining narrative impact, such as eliminating redundant phrases and opting for active voice; and explores how key elements—like conflict escalation and character development—must be handled differently in short stories.    Interview video at https://bit.ly/TIAPYTPlaylist  Show notes at https://www.theindyauthor.com/podcast.html    If you find the information in this video useful, please consider supporting The Indy Author! https://www.patreon.com/theindyauthor https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattydalrymple   Art Taylor is the Edgar Award-winning author of two short story collections—The Adventure of the Castle Thief and Other Expeditions and Indiscretions and The Boy Detective & The Summer of '74 and Other Tales of Suspense—and of the novel in stories On the Road with Del & Louise, winner of the Agatha Award for Best First Novel. He is a professor of English at George Mason University.   Matty Dalrymple is the author of the Lizzy Ballard Thrillers, beginning with ROCK PAPER SCISSORS; the Ann Kinnear Suspense Novels, beginning with THE SENSE OF DEATH; and the Ann Kinnear Suspense Shorts. She is a member of International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime. Matty also writes, speaks, and consults on the writing craft and the publishing voyage, and shares what she's learned on THE INDY AUTHOR PODCAST. She has written books on the business of short fiction and podcasting for authors; her articles have appeared in "Writer's Digest" magazine. She serves as the Campaigns Manager for the Alliance of Independent Authors.  

Across the globe, many people see democracy retreating and authoritarianism on the rise. In places as diverse as India, Hungry, Niger, El Salvador, and even right here in the United States, people of all political background are concerned about the state of their democracy, even if their reasons for worry differ. From attacks on courts, to the accumulation of executive power, and the takeover of institutions, many countries have see their democracies weaken, while many others have seen their democracies completely overthrown (at least 32 coup d'état's since 2010, and many more attempts, around the world).  Freedom House has marked overall democratic decline for the past 19 years based on their global metrics, while countless articles have been written about democratic backsliding around the world.In this month's episode, we discuss the state of democracy around the world with Dr. Henry Thomson of Arizona State University. Throughout this conversation, we cover the pathways to democratic decline and dive into the trends that the world is currently experiencing, while putting this discussion in historical context. In addition, we talk about what lessons pro-democracy forces can learn from the transitions that other countries have made away from authoritarian styles of government. It is important to remember that at one point in time, all countries were under authoritarian forms of government. Dr. Henry Thomson is an Associate Professor in the School of Politics and Global Studies at Arizona State University. He is a political economist with a research focus on economic development, authoritarian rule, and transitions to democracy.He is the author of two books, Watching the Watchers: Communist Elites, the Secret Police and Social Order in Cold War Europe (New York: Cambridge University Press, 2024) and Food and Power: Regime Type, Agricultural Policy and Political Stability (New York: Cambridge University Press, 2019).Before joining ASU, Thomson was a Postdoctoral Prize Research Fellow at Nuffield College, Oxford. He completed his PhD in Political Science at the University of Minnesota. His doctoral dissertation won the 2015 Juan Linz Prize for the Best Dissertation in the Comparative Study of Democratization from the American Political Science Association. He has been a visiting scholar at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University, at Australian National University, and at the German Institute for Global and Area Studies in Berlin.Professor Thomson teaches classes on Democratization, Political Economy, International Political Economy, and social science research design.

How do we lower the amount of preterm or low weight births? Dongqing Wang, Assistant Professor in the Department of Global and Community Health at George Mason University's College of Public Health, examines one solution. Dongqing Wang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Global and Community Health. Wang's research focuses on the nutritional […]

Dr. Daniel Gartenberg is a sleep scientist and the founder and CEO of SleepSpace, a company that develops innovative solutions for improving sleep quality and health. He has a PhD in cognitive psychology from George Mason University and more than 15 years of experience in sleep research and technology.Dr. Gartenberg has received over $3.5 million in grant awards from the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of Aging to create a connected smart bedroom system that uses natural remedies like sound, light, and temperature, along with wearable and nearable devices, to diagnose and treat sleep disorders. His current focus is on a solution for detecting and treating insomnia and sleep apnea, to reduce cardiometabolic risk and the risk of Alzheimer's disease. By leveraging recent advances in AI and sensor technology, Dr Gartenberg led the SleepSpace team to develop one of the most accurate sleep detection systems. The company also completed a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) on a new digital treatment for insomnia that works alongside a trained provider.Dr. Gartenberg has >20 peer-reviewed publications and a viral TED Talk with over 5 million views. He has also served as an adjunct professor at Penn State University in the Department of Biobehavioral Health, where he conducted research on sleep and cognition. He is a scientific consultant for a number of sleep related companies including Wesper, MDbiowellness, CPAP.com, Soltec Health, and more. SHOWNOTES:

0:00 - Durbin not running 17:14 - Pritzker threatens El Salvador 34:52 - Michelle Obama on the unspoken pain and labeling of black women and the burdens they must carry 54:42 - The Age of Extinction 01:08:25 - American economist, author, professor, and co-director of the Program on the American Economy and Globalization at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University, Donald J Boudreaux: If you believe trade deals will restore manufacturing employment, you're going to be disappointed. Check out Donald’s daily blog at cafehyek.com 01:27:02 - President of Center of the American Experiment and contributor to Powerline, John Hinderaker: Who Says Democrats Aren’t Pro-Crime? Get John’s latest at powerlineblog.com 01:43:09 - SCOTUS oral arguments on 1st A case...books in Maryland govt schools 01:54:27 - EdSec Linda McMahon on Trump EO to allow teachers to institute discipline in their classrooms 02:00:57 - Joseph Bottum, visiting chair in conservative thought and policy at University of Colorado's Benson Center for the Study of Western Civilization: College Students Don’t Read. But Can They? For more from Prof Bottum poemsancientandmodern.substack.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Russia’s war against Ukraine has been marked by deliberate attacks on civilians, healthcare workers, and critical infrastructure. From targeting rescue personnel with follow-up strikes to direct attacks on hospitals and maternity wards, Russia’s actions raise serious questions under the Law of Armed Conflict. Additionally, its ongoing kinetic and cyber attacks on energy infrastructure further challenge established legal norms.This Federalist Society webinar will examine how these actions violate the Law of Armed Conflict, focusing on specific incidents and responsible actors. Panelists will also explore potential legal remedies and the prospects for war crimes prosecutions.Mike Lewis served as a naval aviator before becoming a renowned law professor, respected by scholars and practitioners alike. A great friend of the Federalist Society, he spoke at numerous lawyer and student chapter events and was a dedicated member of the Executive Committee of the International & National Security Law Practice Group. Each year, the Practice Group honors his legacy with a webinar.Featuring: Prof. Michael A. Newton, Director, International Legal Studies Program, Vanderbilt Law SchoolModerator: Jeremy A. Rabkin, Professor of Law, Antonin Scalia Law School, George Mason University

S5:E2 Influencers, Gen Z, & Beyond Social Commerce: Lessons from AliExpress with Chris CarlWelcome to the second episode of Season 5 of the Retail Razor Show! Join hosts Ricardo Belmar and Casey Golden as they dive into the fresh tactics and cutting-edge strategies that are driving the future of retail and e-commerce with Gen Z. In this episode, they are joined by Chris Carl, the US Head of Marketing for AliExpress (Alibaba Group), to discuss ‘the new playbook for digital marketing' fresh from his insightful session on marketing to Gen Z at eTail West!Discover how AliExpress is capturing Gen Z's attention, building a robust social media presence, leveraging influencers like David Beckham, and exploring the future of cross-border shopping with a full-funnel marketing strategy. Chris shares the impressive growth metrics (500% increase in social media following, for example) and innovative campaigns that have set AliExpress apart - think social commerce, live shopping, Gen AI, and TikTok Shops. Plus, new enticing innovations in logistics to help onboard more US-based sellers to the AliExpress marketplace. Whether you're a product junkie, retail leader, or commerce technologist, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss!About Chris Carl:Chris Carl is a strategy, operations, and marketing executive with a proven track record in retail, beauty, spirits, lifestyle, hospitality, and luxury goods. As the first US Head of Marketing for AliExpress, Chris focuses on making online shopping more engaging and affordable. Since May 2023, Chris has increased order volume by 60%, increased brand share of voice by 75%, expanded headcount by 400%, boosted social media following by 500%, and doubled brand awareness.Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://retailrazor.substack.comSubscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/RRShowYouTube00:00 Show Intro03:04 Introducing Christopher Carl from AliExpress & His Background05:43 Conversation with Chris Carl, Head of US Marketing for AliExpress08:52 Cracking the Code with Gen Z16:00 AliExpress's Social Media and Influencer Strategy21:22 Leveraging Social Media for Brand Growth23:30 Navigating the Shifting Digital Marketing Landscape25:46 The Future of Social Commerce and Live Shopping28:17 The Importance of Brand Personality and Humor31:50 AliExpress: A Unique Business Model35:09 Expanding AliExpress's US Presence38:45 The Future of Cross-Border E-Commerce42:20 Show CloseMeet your hosts, helping you cut through the clutter in retail & retail tech:Ricardo Belmar is an NRF Top Retail Voices for 2025 and a RETHINK Retail Top Retail Expert from 2021 – 2024. Thinkers 360has named him a Top 10 Retail Thought Leader, Top 50 Management Thought Leader, Top 100 Digital Transformation Thought Leader, and a Top Digital Voice for 2024. He is an advisory council member at George Mason University's Center for Retail Transformation, and is the director partner marketing for retail & consumer goods at Microsoft.Casey Golden, is the CEO of Luxlock, a RETHINK Retail Top Retail Expert for 2023 and 2024, and Retail Cloud Alliance advisory council member. Obsessed with the customer relationship between the brand and the consumer. After a career on the fashion and supply chain technology side of the business, now slaying franken-stacks and building retail tech!Includes music provided by imunobeats.com, featuring Overclocked, and E-Motive from the album Beat Hype, written by Heston Mimms, published by Imuno.

On this episode of the Defense & Aerospace Report Strategy Series, sponsored by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Dr. Jerry McGinn, the director of the Baroni Center for Government Contracting at George Mason University, and Bill Alderman of Alderman & Company, a boutique firm specializing in aerospace and defense mergers and acquisitions, join Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian to discuss President Trump's executive orders on reforming defense acquisition, defense acquisition and a maritime strategy; how such orders shape the actions of smaller firms in the aerospace and defense industrial base; the outlook for military spending and whether higher material costs in the wake of the president's tariff decisions could undermine the Pentagon's buying power; how big contractors squeeze their smaller suppliers in the name of “partnering for success,” and how the big-small dynamic is changing; the inability of US leaders to think strategically, for example, on building rare earth mineral capacity; and more.

With Mickie Kennedy, a PR expert and press release strategist who helps small businesses, startups, and authors get seen and heard. Over 26 years ago, he founded eReleases after witnessing firsthand how many entrepreneurs struggled to afford traditional PR services. His mission is simple: make media access and press release distribution both effective and accessible — with a human touch. Today, he continues to guide thousands of business owners toward greater visibility, credibility, and growth through strategic media coverage.Mickie holds an MFA in Creative Writing from George Mason University and still writes poetry with a group of fellow misfits in Maryland. His work and expertise have been featured on top business podcasts and media platforms. He lives in Baltimore County with his family and two feuding cats, enjoys British sci-fi, and admits to a serious diet soda habit.Join us in our conversation as Mickie breaks down why being an unknown brand can actually be your biggest PR asset, and how strategic storytelling can turn a press release into a multimillion-dollar opportunity. He shares lessons from his journey, insights into eReleases' partnership with PR Newswire, and tips for entrepreneurs who want to get media attention without breaking the bank. Tune in to learn how the power of a well-crafted press release can transform your business.To listen to the podcast and access the show notes and any other resources mentioned in this episode, visit us at www.legalwebsitewarrior.com/podcast.

President Donald Trump faces lawsuits over his actions on immigration, mass firings, funding threats and tariffs. But are his administration's showdowns with the courts are heading to a constitutional crisis? Scott and Marisa are joined by Ilya Somin, who teaches law at George Mason University and is the chair of constitutional studies at the Libertarian Cato think tank in Washington. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prompted by the reintroduction of federal Litigation Transparency Act legislation, this panel will address a variety of issues raised by litigation funding with a special focus on patent litigation. Panelists will provide an overview of the Act and consider likely reactions from various constituencies, giving possible policy arguments for and against litigation funding disclosure. The panel will also consider constitutional and practical dimensions of funding disclosure, and the possible ethical issues raised by litigation funding. Featuring: Dean Kristen Osenga, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Austin E. Owen Research Scholar & Professor of Law, The University of Richmond School of Law Courtney Quish, Managing Director, Intellectual Property Finance Group at Fortress Investment Group Jonathan Stroud, General Counsel, Unified Patents Paul Taylor, Visiting Fellow, National Security Institute at George Mason University's Antonin Scalia Law School Moderator: Kacie Donovan, Associate, Greenberg Traurig -- To register, click the link above.

Last month, as part of ALEC's Women's Leadership series, Brooklyn Roberts and I spoke with national security expert Dr. Meg Reiss about how states can defend themselves and the nation from People's Republic of China (PRC) influence, interference, and infiltration. Dr. Reiss served as former US Senator Mitt Romney's national security policy advisor and is a nonresident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, as well as a fellow at the National Security Institution at George Mason University. Dr. Reiss is also the founder and CEO of SolidIntel, a company that uses generative AI to derisk supply chains. Special Guest: Dr. Megan Reiss.

The Trump administration has decided to terminate the IRS's Direct File program, according to a source familiar with the situation, putting an end to the free electronic filing system that congressional Republicans and the tax preparation industry have had in their crosshairs since its creation. Work on Direct File began during Joe Biden's presidency, bringing together some of the administration's top technical and product minds and tapping into funds from the Inflation Reduction Act. Providing all U.S. taxpayers with a free filing tool would have put the country in line with most developed nations. But despite what the IRS considered to be a successful launch last year, Direct File's future was murky after President Donald Trump's election and the administration's welcoming of Elon Musk's DOGE into the government tech world. The pending elimination of the free filing tool was celebrated Wednesday by the makers of TurboTax. Derrick Plummer, an Intuit spokesman, called Direct File “a solution in search of a problem, a drain on critical IRS resources and a waste of taxpayer dollars.” Consumer advocate groups panned the Trump administration's decision. Susan Harley, managing director of Public Citizen's Congress Watch division, said in a statement that scrapping Direct File “is almost literally taking money out of our pockets.” Dean Ball, a policy scholar with a focus on the intersection of history, political theory, policy and technology, is joining the Trump administration as a senior policy advisor on artificial intelligence and emerging technology, he announced Tuesday on the social media platform X. Ball said in his post of joining the Office of Science and Technology Policy: “It is a thrill and honor to serve my country in this role and work alongside the tremendous team [OSTP Director Michael Kratsios] has built.” He comes to OSTP from the Mercatus Center at George Mason University, where he has served as a research fellow for the past year. Ball is also the author of an AI-focused blog called Hyperdimensional, in which he has defended the AI Safety Institute and commented on the Trump administration's terminations of probationary employees, saying the move had unintended consequences. Ball also wrote recently that he is interested in AI being built at the same time that the Trump administration and Republicans “seek to advance theories of a ‘unitary executive' — the notion that the president exercises the powers granted to him by the Constitution and Congress absolutely.” The Daily Scoop Podcast is available every Monday-Friday afternoon. If you want to hear more of the latest from Washington, subscribe to The Daily Scoop Podcast  on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube.

Arts educators and practitioners witness daily how the arts elevate students' self-confidence, emotional intelligence, and creativity. Yet, empirical evidence from scientific research has traditionally lagged behind these observations.In this insightful episode, Dr. Thalia shares findings from a nationally representative qualitative study highlighting the cognitive, social, and emotional benefits children gain from engaging in theatre classes. Drawing on developmental psychology and empirical research, she explains how theatre and playful artistic activities nurture emotional regulation, creativity, and overall well-being.Understanding these benefits is crucial for adults too. By fostering these skills early, we equip future leaders with essential tools to effectively navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of work and society. Join us to learn how to incorporate these strategies in your own life!Dr. Thalia Goldstein is an associate professor and director of the applied developmental psychology program at George Mason University, where she directs the Play, Learning, Arts, and Youth Lab, and co-directs the Mason Arts Research Center (a National Endowment for the Arts Lab). Her research focuses on children's and adolescent's social and emotional development through engagement with pretend play and the arts. Her most recent book is “Why Theatre Education Matters: Understanding its Cognitive, Social, and Emotional Benefits”.Learn more about Dr Thalia:www.thaliagoldstein.comListen to more episodes on Mission Matters:https://missionmatters.com/author/genein-letford/

The Cognitive Crucible is a forum that presents different perspectives and emerging thought leadership related to the information environment. The opinions expressed by guests are their own, and do not necessarily reflect the views of or endorsement by the Information Professionals Association. During this episode, JD Maddox discusses new influence opportunities borne out of necessity. JD suggests that listeners consider radical-sounding concepts for, such as letters of marque, indemnification, task-based organization, public-private operations, and new authorities as viable influence pathways for today's strategic landscape. Recording Date: 31 Mar 2025 Resources: Cognitive Crucible Podcast Episodes Mentioned or Related #110 Sean McFate on The New Rules of War #220 Tom Kent on US International Broadcasting and Soft Power Lord's Resistance Army (Central Africa) The Kherson Ruse: Ukraine and the Art of Military Deception Letters of Marque US Agency for Global Media Link to full show notes and resources Guest Bio: J.D. Maddox is an expert in political warfare, and an academic, writer and former political candidate. He has served as a Central Intelligence Agency branch chief, deputy coordinator of the U.S. Global Engagement Center, advisor to the Secretary of Homeland Security, and as a U.S. Army Psychological Operations team leader. He is the founder of Inventive Insights LLC, and the Vice President of Technology and Innovation at Deft9 Solutions, and currently consults on Operations in the Information Environment to government organizations, and consults to commercial and political organizations on strategic communications. He's an adjunct professor of national security studies at George Mason University's Schar School, teaching Disinformation and Policy Responses, and he's an adjunct professor at Tulane University, where he teaches Open Source Information Analysis. He also recently initiated "Tab D," a biweekly report highlighting U.S. adversaries' narrative vulnerabilities. About: The Information Professionals Association (IPA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring the role of information activities, such as influence and cognitive security, within the national security sector and helping to bridge the divide between operations and research. Its goal is to increase interdisciplinary collaboration between scholars and practitioners and policymakers with an interest in this domain. For more information, please contact us at communications@information-professionals.org. Or, connect directly with The Cognitive Crucible podcast host, John Bicknell, on LinkedIn. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, 1) IPA earns from qualifying purchases, 2) IPA gets commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

“Humanity... is at a critical moment in history where the decisions that we make could have massive, massive implications, for our future trajectory, for the future trajectory of human civilization over the next two centuries. Those decisions can either ensure that we have a prosperous millennium or that we have a disastrous one.” Erald Kolasi joins Steve to talk about his book, The Physics of Capitalism. Erald's interdisciplinary approach merges economics, technology, energy, and ecological dynamics. He explains that science can provide facts and data about the world, but to address the challenges we need to go beyond physics. Solutions will depend on the political, economic, and social spheres. The discussion includes the flaws of neoclassical economic models, the limitations of technological innovation in solving ecological crises, and the necessity of systemic changes for a sustainable future. Erald describes a vision for a new political and economic order that emphasizes ecological stability, socialization, modularity, and localized production. Erald Kolasi is a writer and researcher focusing on the nexus between energy, technology, economics, complex systems, and ecological dynamics. His book, The Physics of Capitalism, came out from Monthly Review Press in February 2025. He received his PhD in Physics from George Mason University in 2016. You can find out more about Erald and his work at his website, www.eraldkolasi.com.

An internationally recognized pet safety advocate, Ms. Wolko founded the Center for Pet Safety in 2011. CPS is a non-profit organization working on behalf of pet owners to ensure safety of pet products. With a keen understanding of the pet industry, she has authored the first safety standards for pet products, launched a certification program, counsels pet product manufacturers around the globe and works tirelessly for consumer and companion animal safety.  Ms. Wolko holds a bachelors degree from George Mason University and she currently leads the research division of CPS.Legal Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute advice or professional services by either the host nor any of the guests. Website: https://www.centerforpetsafety.org/ Donate to CPS: https://www.centerforpetsafety.org/get-involved/donate/ Pet Travel Tips: https://www.centerforpetsafety.org/pet-parents/pet-travel-tips/If you want to work with me, Susan Light, you can find me at:www.doggydojopodcast.comThe music was written by Mac Light, you can find him at:www.maclightsongwriter.comIf you like the show, please Subscribe, Rate, Review, and Share to help others find the show! I'll see you in two weeks with a brand new episode of the Doggy Dojo!

In this episode John “Slick” Baum, a former US Air Force Thunderbird pilot and expert in business strategy and high-performance coaching, discusses his career journey, including high-stakes flight experiences like taking Lewis Hamilton on a flight as part of astronaut training. John shares the parallels between high-performance aviation and Formula One racing, leadership principles from his time with the elite Thunderbirds team, and insights into his current roles in executive coaching and motivational speaking. The episode delves into John's mantra of responsible reinvention and emphasizes the importance of mentorship and teamwork in achieving success. Episode Highlights: 04:22 Training Lewis Hamilton for Space 16:19 Aviation Passion and Career Beginnings 24:52 Training with NATO Partners 26:04 Becoming a Fighter Weapons School Instructor 31:10 Leadership and Teamwork Principles About John: John "Slick" Baum is a fighter pilot, mentor, leader, performance coach, retired USAF Lieutenant Colonel and entrepreneur. In 2009, Slick was by name requested to join the famed USAF Thunderbirds Demonstration Team. He was then selected as an Air Force Fellow, earning a Masters in Strategic Communications from George Mason University. As a co-founder of Draken International, the company’s efforts were recognized as #18 on the Inc. 5000 list in 2018. In 2024, Slick (in partnership with IWC Schaffhausen and the Polaris Program) provided 7x Formula 1 World Champion, Lewis Hamilton, astronaut flight training as Lewis looks to go from the racetrack to space. Connect with John: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slickbaum/ Twitter/X: https://www.x.com/slickf16 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-baum-b3476328/ Website: https://slickbaum.com/ IT'S TIME TO SHOW UP WITH CONFIDENCE, MAKE AN IMPACT, AND MOVE THE BALL:

  On this episode of Unsupervised Learning Razib talks to Mark Lutter. Lutter is an urban development expert known for his work on charter cities—new urban areas aimed at fostering economic growth and progress. He is the Founder and Executive Chairman of the Charter Cities Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to building the ecosystem for charter cities, as well as the CEO of Braavos Cities, a charter city development company. He holds a PhD in economics from George Mason University, and a BS in mathematics from the University of Maryland, College Park. His interests span progress studies, governance, social dynamics and institution-building, with a belief that creating new cities can spark cultural and economic advancements similar to historical periods like the Renaissance or the Dutch Golden Age. He has been published or quoted in outlets like the Financial Times, The New Yorker, and The Chicago Tribune. Lutter and Razib discuss diverse topics, from the difficulties of the Prospera project in Honduras, to the possibility of developing San Francisco's Presidio into an Asian-style super-city. They explore the various pitfalls and possibilities faced when attempting to create new jurisdictions in developing nations in the Caribbean and Latin America, along with the major obstacles to urban innovation in the USA. Lutter outlines the economic case for charter cities, along with the normative values that undergird their creation as bastions of liberty and laboratories of cultural experimentation. Finally, they discuss the Trump administration's openness to the idea of the “Freedom City” in the Presidio, along with local opposition to the project.

It’s almost peak bloom in Washington, D.C., which means it’s time for our annual cherry blossom celebration! But first, some federal funding news: Columbia University will give in to far-reaching demands by President Donald Trump to restore threatened federal funding. We’ll get into what kind of precedent the move sets for higher education. And, the U.S. Department of Agriculture will cancel $500 million in food deliveries. Rural food banks could be impacted most. Plus, we’ll play a blossom-themed round of Half Full/Half Empty! Here’s everything we talked about today: “Trump weighs in on report King Charles will offer U.S. Commonwealth membership” from The Independent “Columbia Yields to Trump in Battle Over Federal Funding” from The Wall Street Journal “USDA cancels $500M in food deliveries, leaving food banks scrambling” from The Washington Post “Ohio among best places to see cherry blossoms blooming. Here’s where” from The Columbus Dispatch “Cherry Blossom predictions are in! Will AI bloom or bust?” from George Mason University “Beyond the bud: How the nation’s pink trees became an indicator of changing climate” from WBAL “2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival set to boost DC tourism” from ABC7 News Donate to our March fundraiser to get classic public media thank-you gifts! https://support.marketplace.org/smart-sn

It’s almost peak bloom in Washington, D.C., which means it’s time for our annual cherry blossom celebration! But first, some federal funding news: Columbia University will give in to far-reaching demands by President Donald Trump to restore threatened federal funding. We’ll get into what kind of precedent the move sets for higher education. And, the U.S. Department of Agriculture will cancel $500 million in food deliveries. Rural food banks could be impacted most. Plus, we’ll play a blossom-themed round of Half Full/Half Empty! Here’s everything we talked about today: “Trump weighs in on report King Charles will offer U.S. Commonwealth membership” from The Independent “Columbia Yields to Trump in Battle Over Federal Funding” from The Wall Street Journal “USDA cancels $500M in food deliveries, leaving food banks scrambling” from The Washington Post “Ohio among best places to see cherry blossoms blooming. Here’s where” from The Columbus Dispatch “Cherry Blossom predictions are in! Will AI bloom or bust?” from George Mason University “Beyond the bud: How the nation’s pink trees became an indicator of changing climate” from WBAL “2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival set to boost DC tourism” from ABC7 News Donate to our March fundraiser to get classic public media thank-you gifts! https://support.marketplace.org/smart-sn

Trump has invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, a wartime authority, to summarily deport suspected members of a Venezuelan gang. He also invoked a Cold War-era statute to deport a student activist at Columbia University. In this episode, Adam Cox of New York University and Ilya Somin of George Mason University join to discuss the scope of the president's deportation power and to evaluate whether the administration violated the due process or speech rights of the deportees.  Resources  Adam Cox and Cristina Rodríguez, The President and Immigration Law (2020)  Ilya Somin, Free to Move: Foot Voting, Migration, and Political Freedom (2021)  Adam Cox and Ahilan Arulanantham, “Explainer on First Amendment and Due Process Issues in Deportation of Pro-Palestinian Student Activist(s),” Just Security (March 12, 2025)  Ilya Somin, “The Case Against Deporting Immigrants for ‘Pro-Terrorist' Speech,” Volokh Conspiracy (March 10, 2025)  Ilya Somin, “What Just Happened: The “Invasion” Executive Order and Its Dangerous Implications” Just Security (January 28, 2025)  Adam Cox, “The Invention of Immigration Exceptionalism,” Yale Law Review (November 2024)  Bridges v. Wixon (1945)  Harisiades v. Shaughnessy (1952) Stay Connected and Learn More Questions or comments about the show? Email us at podcast@constitutioncenter.org Continue the conversation by following us on social media @ConstitutionCtr. Sign up to receive Constitution Weekly, our email roundup of constitutional news and debate. Follow, rate, and review wherever you listen. Join us for an upcoming live program or watch recordings on YouTube. Support our important work. Donate