Podcasts about graduates

Monika Dukarska is an Irish Olympian and World Rowing Champion who recently graduated from MTU Kerry with a Doctorate of Philosophy by Research. On the balance of studying for her doctorate and sports, she says she took the scenic route to get there.

Peace Through Business: Building Peace by Empowering Women Entrepreneurs In a world often torn by conflict, peace through business may sound like a lofty goal. Yet for nearly two decades, that's exactly what Dr. Terry Neese , Monica Smiley, and the Peace Through Business Program have been accomplishing—helping women in Afghanistan, Rwanda, and now Uganda rise as entrepreneurs, leaders, and community changemakers. In the final episode of my three-part Peace Through Business podcast series, I was joined by Monica Smiley, president and founder of the Enterprising Women Foundation and publisher and CEO of Enterprising Women magazine. Monica, a long-time champion of women entrepreneurs worldwide, shared the remarkable journey of Dr. Neese, the founder of Peace Through Business, and how the Enterprising Women Foundation has joined forces to carry that mission forward. A Vision Born from a Call to Action The story began nearly twenty years ago when First Lady Laura Bush called Terry Neese with a bold request: travel with her to Afghanistan to help empower women through entrepreneurship. Despite her husband's warnings about the risks, Terry packed her bags and boarded a plane. What she witnessed changed her life. Soon after, she founded the Peace Through Business Program under the IEEW banner—a leadership and entrepreneurship training initiative designed to equip women in post-conflict nations with the tools to rebuild their lives and their communities through business ownership. Terry was no stranger to pioneering women's initiatives. She had co-founded Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP), served as a president of NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners), and played a pivotal role in passing H.R. 5050, the landmark legislation often called the "Big Bang" of women's entrepreneurship by creating the National Women's Business Council, laying the groundwork for a network of Women's Business Centers across the nation, and changing archaic laws that kept women from getting credit in their own names. From her base in Oklahoma City, this native of Cookie Town, Oklahoma, went on to build a global movement rooted in one core belief: economic empowerment is the path to peace. From Afghanistan to Rwanda: Courage in Action What began as a training program for Afghan women quickly expanded. Within a year, Peace Through Business added Rwanda, a country rebuilding after the genocide that took more than 800,000 lives. "In Rwanda," Monica shared, "women literally held up the sky after the genocide." Many were left as heads of households and community leaders. With support from Peace Through Business, these women learned to create sustainable enterprises that fueled their country's recovery. Rwanda is now one of the few nations in the world where women hold a majority in Parliament, a testament to their determination and leadership. One unforgettable example is Chantal, a graduate of the program who turned a personal crisis into opportunity. After a car accident left her vehicle stranded abroad for repairs, she realized there were no local body shops. Determined to change that, she founded the first woman-owned auto repair business in Rwanda—and even created the National Garage Owners Association to help others follow her lead. When Monica presented Chantal with the Enterprising Woman of the Year Award, both women were moved to tears. "She had lost over 200 family members during the genocide," Monica recalled. "It was the only time I've ever broken down during a speech. The resilience of these women is indescribable." Adapting and Persevering Through Crisis The fall of Afghanistan to the Taliban in 2021 brought enormous challenges. The program's Afghan director, Manizha, happened to be in the U.S. when the country collapsed. She immediately called her team, instructing them to destroy records to protect participants from reprisal. In the days that followed, Peace Through Business helped over 300 graduates escape the country while continuing to support those who remained. Today, the Afghan program operates entirely online. The women meet virtually several times a week in a ten-week course covering business planning, marketing, finance, taxation, and leadership. Because many participants lack internet access, the program covers their connectivity costs. As Monica noted, "It's like a mini-MBA. The women are committed attendance is strict, there are assignments, tests, and business plans are developed." Graduates then join the Peace Through Business Alumni Association, where they mentor other women and "pay it forward." The results have been extraordinary: alumnae have launched new ventures, expanded into export markets, and even entered politics as ministers and policymakers. Watch our video on YouTube Here: A Call to Action: Women Helping Women Monica's message is clear—these programs depend on us. With cutbacks to international aid, nonprofit funding is tighter than ever, even as demand grows. "We had 124 Afghan women apply for 35 openings this year," she said. "The need is overwhelming." Every dollar and every mentor counts. Mentors are matched virtually with entrepreneurs to share expertise and encouragement. Donations go directly toward training, internet access, and modest stipends for local program directors like Manizha and Chantal, who continue to risk so much for others. Monica's organization, Enterprising Women Foundation, now hosts the Peace Through Business program, helping amplify its reach and celebrating its graduates at the annual Enterprising Women of the Year Awards. The partnership exemplifies how women lifting women can create ripple effects across continents—building stronger families, economies, and, ultimately, peace. Building Peace, One Business at a Time As I closed our conversation, I reflected on how deeply these women embody resilience and hope. Their stories remind us that peace is not simply the absence of conflict—it is the presence of opportunity. When women gain access to education, mentorship, and entrepreneurship, they transform not only their own lives but the futures of entire communities. Programs like Peace Through Business show that empowering women economically is one of the most powerful peace strategies in the world. The program is now operating in Canada and the United Kingdom. It is mostly serving immigrant women entrepreneurs from around the globe who have moved to those countries and need the Peace Through Business training. The Program is becoming truly global. If you would like to support or mentor women through the Peace Through Business program, visit Enterprising Women Foundation at www.enterprisingwomenfoundation. Together, we can build peace—one woman, one business, and one community at a time. Connect with me: Website: www.simonassociates.net Email: info@simonassociates.net Books: Learn more about our books here: Rethink: Smashing the Myths of Women in Business Women Mean Business: Over 500 Insights from Extraordinary Leaders to Spark Your Success On the Brink: A Fresh Lens to Take Your Business to New Heights Listen + Subscribe: Available wherever you get your podcasts—Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, YouTube, and more. If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review and share with someone navigating their own leadership journey. Reach out and contact us if you want to see how a little anthropology can help your business grow. Let's Talk!

In this episode, Dave interviews Dave Protasowski, a member of the steering committee for Knative, about the project's recent graduation from the CNCF. They discuss: An overview of what Knative doesThe history of the project at the CNCFWhat's in store for Knative in the future

In this episode I start a new mini-series called 'Meet the Graduates', featuring former students of my Akashic Records training. My inaugural guest is Jillian MacDonald, an energy healer, spiritual teacher, and channel from Canada.Jillian shares her transformative journey with the Akashic Records, how she discovered them, and how they have profoundly influenced her spiritual path. She discusses specific modalities she uses, such as Reiki, yoni work, and womb healing, to help others align with their true selves. Jillian also talks about overcoming her initial disbelief in her channelling abilities, her shift from 'people pleasing' to prioritizing self-responsibility, and her passion for integrating galactic consciousness into her practice. You can connect with Jillian on social media at authenticyou.healingwhere you can book in a 1:1 session with her.To learn more about the Akashic Records Training that we discuss, please visit my website here.

The rate of workers in Japan who graduated from universities in spring 2022 and left their first jobs within three years stood at 33.8 pct, down 1.1 percentage points from the rate for 2021 graduates, the first decline in four years, a labor ministry survey showed on Friday.

The National College of Ireland is proud to join a cohort of 50 community organisations around the world, receiving $500,000 USD to accelerate youth employability through the Citi Foundation's 2025 Global Innovation Challenge National College of Ireland's mission 'to change lives through education' just received a significant boost from the Citi Foundation's 2025 Global Innovation Challenge. Professor Gina Quin, President of NCI, said: "Citi is an outstanding corporate neighbour, committed to creating real opportunities for the next generation of technologists. This funding will greatly assist NCI in bridging the gap between the underserved youth in Dublin's North-East Inner City and the career opportunities in the international Financial Services Centre (IFSC)." AI and Fintech Futures Programme Dublin's North-East Inner City has long been affected by intergenerational unemployment, educational disadvantage, and limited access to high-growth industries. As artificial intelligence and automation reshape the economy, there is a real risk that communities already facing socio-economic challenges could be left further behind, deepening the digital and opportunity divide. Funded by the Citi Foundation, NCI can directly address that risk, turning AI from a threat into an opportunity, by providing accessible pathways into technology, finance, and enterprise. The AI and Fintech Futures Programme will ensure that young people from underrepresented backgrounds can participate in, and benefit from, Ireland's digital transformation. Through mentorship, industry experience, and wraparound supports, the programme empowers local youth to become active contributors to the AI and fintech economy, breaking cycles of disadvantage and driving inclusive growth within Dublin's Inner City. "We are deeply grateful to the Citi Foundation and our neighbours at Citi in Dublin especially Davinia Conlan, Citi Country Officer Ireland, for their generous support and partnership on the AI and Fintech Futures Programme. This funding will greatly assist us in delivering on NCI's mission 'to change lives through education' - empowering students in Dublin's North-East Inner City to develop real skills, build a useful network and gain the confidence and creativity needed to thrive in a rapidly changing, technology-driven world," commented Professor Gina Quin, President of National College of Ireland. AI and Fintech Futures Programme aims and opportunities NCI's AI and Fintech Futures Programme, funded by the Citi Foundation, aims to: Build foundational knowledge in Artificial Intelligence and Fintech tailored for the digital economy. Provide career opportunities through industry-recognised certifications and mentorship. Foster personal growth, resilience, and digital skills to prepare participants for apprenticeships, further and higher education and careers. Raise educational capital and ambition resulting in sustainable careers. Help close the socio-economic gap that technological advancements such as AI can often exacerbate. Act as a launchpad bringing under-represented young people into Ireland's digital economy. Graduates of NCI's AI and Fintech Futures Programme can advance toward: Meaningful tech or fintech employment. Progressive apprenticeships. Further/higher education. All supported by sustained mentoring, academic scaffolding, and community engagement. See more stories here.

Students in Clarke County are learning lessons that go far beyond the classroom thanks to the Jobs for Alabama's Graduates program and two educators who are helping the next generation prepare for success. Clarke County High School JAG teacher Mary Roberts has spent three decades shaping students' futures. Roberts, a former family and consumer science teacher at CCHS, left the classroom in 2023 for a military deployment and returned in December 2024. In January, she began leading the JAG program at CCHS, continuing her 30-year teaching career and her 25 years of military service. Coach Russell Wright launched the JAG...Article Link

Originally uploaded October 14th, reloaded October 21st. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Carrie Rosingana, CEO, CAMW! Capital Area Michigan Works! Lansing, MI, but serving Ingham, Eaton and Clinton Counties. In recent days a new state budget has passed, so details are still settling on what the new budget year looks like,... Where will things stand for Going PRO Talent Fund grants, and their impact on Michigan's small businesses and their workforce training efforts? What measurable return on investment has programs like Going PRO and BRES provided for employers in the Capital area? What's the status for Jobs for Michigan's Graduates which affects local talent pipelines and future workforce readiness? In what ways do CAMW!'s business services help employers navigate and benefit from state workforce programs? What strategies can Michigan businesses adopt to sustain employee development if state funding remains cut? » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/ Here was their September 18th press release before the budget passed: CAMW! urges lawmakers to restore critical funding Successful workforce programs eliminated in budget proposal LANSING, Mich. — Capital Area Michigan Works! (CAMW!) is calling on state lawmakers to undo proposed cuts to multiple successful workforce development programs, including one that helps small businesses offset the cost of training their workers and another providing career and educational assistance for at-risk youth. “While I understand that resources are limited, and legislators have difficult decisions to make, these are programs with proven successful track records,” said Carrie Rosingana, chief executive officer of CAMW!. “During times of fiscal uncertainty, we would strongly encourage lawmakers to continue to fund programs where you know you'll get a good return on your investment, and that's why we need these programs off the chopping block.” One of the programs entirely defunded is the Going PRO Talent Fund, which awards grants to businesses to train employees for an area of demonstrated need and gives them an industry-recognized skill or credential. Only employees who primarily work in Michigan are eligible, and over the last 10 years, over 90% of awards have gone to businesses with less than 500 employees. “MediLodge, which operates over 50 skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities across Michigan, has relied on GPTF since 2022, to support the training of nearly 4,000 health care workers, helping them gain vital skills to better serve Michigan's aging population. Workers who completed training saw an average wage increase of 8% within six months,” said Heidi Lowe, talent acquisition project director at MediLodge. “This isn't just about reimbursement dollars and training hours; it's about building a resilient health care system. MediLodge uses GPTF to show what strategic investment in workforce development can lead to: better patient care, higher employee retention and stronger local economies.” CAMW! and the other 15 Michigan Works! agencies around the state are an integral part of the GPTF application process. CAMW!'s Business Services staff conduct fact-finding missions, help employers determine training needed for their workforce to include in an application, support employers in finding a training source and facilitate the application process. ### ABOUT CAMW! Capital Area Michigan Works!, a proud partner of the American Job Center network, connects with businesses to develop recruiting and retention strategies and strengthens the local workforce by enhancing education and career opportunities for job seekers. For more information, call (517) 492-5500 or go to www.camw.org.

USMA graduate, combat veteran and President of the West Point Society of the Flint Hills in Kansas, Katrina Lewison joins Dane Neal on WGN Radio. Hear as Katrina shares excitement around bringing “Old Grads” and football fans together from Kansas and beyond for the pregame celebration between Army and K-State in Manhattan Kansas. Listen as […]

USMA graduate, combat veteran and President of the West Point Society of the Flint Hills in Kansas, Katrina Lewison joins Dane Neal on WGN Radio. Hear as Katrina shares excitement around bringing “Old Grads” and football fans together from Kansas and beyond for the pregame celebration between Army and K-State in Manhattan Kansas. Listen as […]

#67: So what's the big deal about a baby eating 100 foods before they turn one? Diet diversity from your baby's first bites can help build confident kids who love real food…and help you avoid severe picky eating and mealtime battles. In 2016 I created the original 100 First Foods approach to starting solid foods with baby-led weaning…and in today's episode we're hearing from some of the parents from around the world who have had success with this approach. These success stories will inspire you to start expanding your baby's palate, safely, simply and with a proven plan and roadmap to self-feeding success! Listen to this episode to learn: 1. How these moms got their babies to eat 100 foods before turning one…even though they work full time and some of them hate cooking! 2. Why and how parents around the world are modifying the foods on the 100 First Foods list depending on where they live or what's available 3. What steps you can take to get your baby eating 5 new foods per week, 20 foods per month so that in 5 short months your baby also gets to 100 foods before turning one! Shownotes for this episode can be found here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.babyledweaning.co/podast/67 Links from this episode: • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Baby-Led Weaning with Katie Ferraro program with the 100 First Foods™ Daily Meal Plan, join here and get $50 off using the code BLWPOD50: https://babyledweaning.co/program • Baby-Led Weaning for Beginners free online workshop with 100 First Foods™ list to all attendees, register here: https://babyledweaning.co/baby-led-weaning-for-beginners ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other episodes related to this topic: •  Episode 65 - A History of the 100 First Foods Approach to Starting Solid Foods with Baby-Led Weaning • Episode 268 - Second Baby BLW: How I'm Doing 100 First Foods Differently for Baby #2 with Lauren McClure

#67: So what's the big deal about a baby eating 100 foods before they turn one? Diet diversity from your baby's first bites can help build confident kids who love real food…and help you avoid severe picky eating and mealtime battles. In 2016 I created the original 100 First Foods approach to starting solid foods with baby-led weaning…and in today's episode we're hearing from some of the parents from around the world who have had success with this approach. These success stories will inspire you to start expanding your baby's palate, safely, simply and with a proven plan and roadmap to self-feeding success! Listen to this episode to learn: 1. How these moms got their babies to eat 100 foods before turning one…even though they work full time and some of them hate cooking! 2. Why and how parents around the world are modifying the foods on the 100 First Foods list depending on where they live or what's available 3. What steps you can take to get your baby eating 5 new foods per week, 20 foods per month so that in 5 short months your baby also gets to 100 foods before turning one! Shownotes for this episode can be found here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.babyledweaning.co/podast/67 Links from this episode: • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Baby-Led Weaning with Katie Ferraro program with the 100 First Foods™ Daily Meal Plan, join here and get $50 off using the code BLWPOD50: https://babyledweaning.co/program • Baby-Led Weaning for Beginners free online workshop with 100 First Foods™ list to all attendees, register here: https://babyledweaning.co/baby-led-weaning-for-beginners ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Other episodes related to this topic: •  Episode 65 - A History of the 100 First Foods Approach to Starting Solid Foods with Baby-Led Weaning • Episode 268 - Second Baby BLW: How I'm Doing 100 First Foods Differently for Baby #2 with Lauren McClure

The Master Meat Crafter Program at the University of Wisconsin’s Meat Science & Animal Biologics Discovery is one of the most prestigious training opportunities in the meat industry. Applications are now open for the 2026–2027 class, due November 15. This two-year, hands-on program offers an in-depth education in meat science, food safety, and processing principles, giving participants the skills and knowledge to take their craft to the next level. Graduates earn the respected title of Master Meat Crafter, a mark of excellence recognized throughout the industry, says Extension Meat Specialist Jeff Sindelar.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for October 17th Publish Date:  October 17th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, October 17th and Happy Birthday to Alan Jackson I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Cobb County Sheriff's Office welcomes newest GED graduates ACT scores increase in Cobb, dip in Marietta KSU student arrested after protesting Charlie Kirk memorial Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on grass fed beef All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: Ingles Markets 10 STORY 1: Cobb County Sheriff's Office welcomes newest GED graduates The Cobb County Sheriff’s Office hosted its third GED graduation of the year on Oct. 8, right inside the Adult Detention Center. Seven detainees walked away with diplomas in hand—proof that change is possible, even behind bars. Since the program launched in March 2024, over 30 detainees have earned their GEDs. The ceremony was heartfelt, with speeches from Chief Deputy Rhonda Anderson, Col. Michael Williams, and Dr. Kim Kranzlin of Cobb Adult Education. The program isn’t easy—four subjects, a minimum score of 145, and 40+ hours of study. But for these seven, it’s a step toward something better. STORY 2: ACT scores increase in Cobb, dip in Marietta  ACT scores are in, and Cobb County is celebrating its highest average in four years, while Marietta High saw a slight dip. Cobb’s average jumped to 23.7 (up 0.9 points), while Marietta landed at 22.2 (down 0.5). Both still outpaced state (21.4) and national (19.4) averages. Wheeler High led Cobb with a stellar 28.5 average, even climbing 2.5 points from last year. Meanwhile, Marietta students continued to outperform state and national peers in every subject, despite the slight drop. “Success takes time,” said Marietta Superintendent Grant Rivera. “Hard work and curiosity drive our students forward.” Georgia students, for the ninth year, beat the national average. STORY 3: KSU student arrested after protesting Charlie Kirk memorial  A protest at Kennesaw State University’s memorial for conservative activist Charlie Kirk ended in chaos Tuesday night, with one student, Luca Compiani, 18, arrested on charges of battery and obstruction. According to police, Compiani “intentionally” bumped into KSU Police Capt. Timothy Murphy in a “provoking manner” and fled when confronted. Protesters, however, claim the situation was escalated unnecessarily, calling the arrest “a gross abuse of authority.” The memorial, hosted by Young Americans for Liberty, drew both supporters and protesters. Some shouted chants, others threw ketchup at a flag. Despite the tension, organizers said the event achieved its goal: promoting free speech—even amid dissent. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: Ingles Markets 10 STORY 4: 1,100+ voters cast ballots on Day 1 of early voting  Nearly 1,200 Cobb County voters turned out Monday for the first day of early voting, with Marietta leading the charge. Of the 1,193 ballots cast, 481 came from the Cobb Elections Main Office, while Mableton saw 221 voters at the South Cobb Community Center. Michael D’Itri, acting director of Cobb Elections, said turnout usually starts strong, dips mid-period, then surges in the final days. For Marietta voter Chris Danos, 28, the mayoral race is top of mind. “We need better transportation options,” he said. Meanwhile, Dan and Vicki Rupnow, who moved from Atlanta, love Marietta’s walkability and lighter traffic. “It’s perfect for us,” they said. STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 things to do this weekend in Cobb County — Oct. 17 - 19 Marietta HarvestFest Marietta Square is the place to be this Saturday for HarvestFest—think scarecrows, costumes, games, and all the fall vibes. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., you can wander Glover Park, shop the craft show, or dive into a pie-eating contest (messy, but worth it). Oh, and don’t miss the Big Chicken Cornerback’s Coop—a college football watch party. Bring a lawn chair and settle in. Smyrna Spooky Festival Market Village gets spooky Saturday night, 6–9 p.m., with trick-or-treating, a live DJ spinning Halloween jams, and a free outdoor showing of Hotel Transylvania. Costumes? Highly encouraged. Witches & Friends Paddle At Cauble Park in Acworth, Halloween hits the water! Decorate your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and join the fun Saturday at 9 a.m. Registration’s $45, and spectators watch for free. Powder Springs Trunk-or-Treat Thurman Springs Park transforms into a candy wonderland Saturday at 10 a.m. Trick-or-treat, carve pumpkins, and soak up the fall festivities. Mableton Pumpkin Chase 5K Costumes, candy, and a spooky 5K? The Mableton Pumpkin Chase 5k starts at 8am Saturday. Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre hosts this free event where spotting the “orange pumpkin runner” earns you a sweet treat. Proceeds go to the It Starts With Me 2 Foundation. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on grass fed beef We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: Ingles Markets 10 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode Barry Bonds, Parker discusses happenings from this week in golf. From Xander getting off the Schauffele Schneid, to a fellow Camel grabbing a PGA Tour card, it was a big week for a number of players!

TC is joined by a triumphant Soly from the NLU Birdhouse at Sweetens Cover where Team NLU claimed our 2025 Roost Club Championship. After our breakdown of the week in pro golf and some assorted news and notes, TC catches up with the Korn Ferry Tour broadcast team of Shane Bacon and James Nitties (27:30) to review the 2025 season, this weekend's tour championship and a quick draft of some names to watch from the twenty golfers who've earned a PGA Tour card for 2026. Join us in our support of the Evans Scholars Foundation: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://nolayingup.com/esf⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support our Sponsors: Titleist Whoop SoFi If you enjoyed this episode, consider joining⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Nest⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: No Laying Up's community of avid golfers. Nest members help us maintain our light commercial interruptions (3 minutes of ads per 90 minutes of content) and receive access to exclusive content, discounts in the pro shop, and an annual member gift. It's a $90 annual membership, and you can sign up or learn more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠nolayingup.com/join⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to the No Laying Up Newsletter here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://newsletter.nolayingup.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to the No Laying Up Podcast channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@NoLayingUpPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zandile Makhoba – Lead Research and Insights Specialist, Liberty SAfm Market Update - Podcasts and live stream

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our Corman Graduates series on exploitation filmmaker Jack Hill continues as we move on from Jack's American International Pictures days of COFFY and FOXY BROWN and move on to the next phase of his career, which gets a little help from Corman's New World Pictures staff, as he moves on to 1974's THE SWINGING CHEERLEADERS and 1975's SWITCHBLADE SISTERS.    Joining us to discuss the worlds of undercover college journalism and female gangs is none of than author and film historian Nathaniel Thompson of Mondo-Digital.com!   Nathaniel shares his love of Jack Hill with us, including stories about seeing his films in theaters, his theories on Jack Hill's career, and whether SWITCHBLADE SISTERS was indeed adapted from Shakespeare's Othello.  Why did Jack leave AIP? How did these two movies come about? Is THE SWINGING CHEERLEADERS a comedy? How did New World have a part (if any) in these movies? We do our best to answer these questions and celebrate the exploitation madness that is Jack Hill. To buy Nathaniel's book, The FrightFest Guide to Vampire Movies, head here. For all the shows in Someone's Favorite Productions Podcast Network, head here:  https://www.someonesfavoriteproductions.com/

Welcome to Sridhar's newsletter & Podcast (Click Play button for Audio version of the Post). Appreciate you being here, so we can connect weekly on interesting topics. Add your email id here to get this directly to your inbox.Do subscribe to show Minimalist Techie over Apple Or Spotify Or YouTube podcast (Click on Hyperlinks for Apple Or on Spotify Or on YouTube) or hear it over email you received through my subscription or on my website.This weekly newsletter is mostly about the article, books, videos etc. I read or watch or my views on different topics which revolves around my head during the week.Point discussed in this Podcast,Why So Few Tech Jobs for Recent Grads?  • The promise vs. the reality  • Data showing how entry-level tech hiring has contracted  • Why companies demand high experience from newcomers  • Role of AI / tooling in shifting the job landscape  • What grads and educational systems can do differentlyData Point & Implication* Entry-level hiring by top tech firms dropped by 50% since 2019 San Francisco StandardImplication - The largest tech companies are hiring far fewer fresh grads, undermining the promise of entry-level paths.* The share of tech job ads requiring ≥5 years' experience rose from ~37% to ~42% from 2022 → 2025 Indeed Hiring LabImplication - More roles are shifting toward “mid/senior-level only,” squeezing the bottom tier.* Projections show ~317,700 new job openings per year in U.S. tech & IT occupations through 2034 Bureau of Labor StatisticsImplication - The volume is there—jobs exist—but many are not entry-level or accessible.* Reports show that many grads (esp. CS grads) now face unemployment rates over 6% — double some liberal arts majors The Economic TimesImplication - It's a disruption: even in “hot” fields, grads aren't guaranteed jobs.* Indications that tech postings are down ~36% vs. pre-pandemic levels RedditImplication - The number of roles overall has contracted, increasing competition.Why This Gap Is Widening * Raising experience bars: Companies prefer safer bets — hiring those with track records, rather than investing in freshers. (Data: experience requirement rising)* Risk aversion & cost of training: Startup budgets and corporate HR often don't want or can't afford ramp-up time for newcomers.* AI & automation's shadow:  • Some entry-level tasks (simple code, scripts, basic data cleaning) are increasingly tackled by AI/ML tools, reducing demand for junior labor.  • This doesn't eliminate the need for human developers — but shifts the requirements higher.* Mismatch of curriculum & industry needs: Education sometimes lags behind tech trends. Graduates might know older languages but not the niche frameworks or cloud / ML / architecture knowledge companies now expect.* Selective hiring & “brand bias”: Companies often prioritize grads from elite universities or known tech schools, exacerbating inequality.* Market cycles & contraction: When the tech bubble deflates or macroeconomic headwinds rise, companies cut or freeze junior hiring first.What Grads / Postgrads Can Do * Build a portfolio of real-world projects  • Open-source contributions, personal apps, data projects, internships—even unpaid or side work.  • Projects that solve real problems, not toy examples.* Learn the in-demand skills & tools  • Cloud (AWS, Azure, GCP), ML/AI basics, infrastructure, modern frameworks (e.g. React, Node.js), DevOps tools.  • Certifications, bootcamps, micro-credentials.  • Embrace continuous learning—because tech evolves.* Target smaller companies, startups, non-tech firms  • These roles may have lower brand prestige but offer more flexibility and opportunities to learn.  • Many “non-tech” companies need developers for automation, internal dashboards, ML, etc.* Network aggressively & find mentors  • Use LinkedIn, meetups, hackathons.  • Reach out to people in your niche, ask for code reviews, mock interviews, advice.* Be flexible in location / remote work  • Don't confine your job search to top-tier cities only. Remote roles open more doors.  • Be open to contract / freelance gigs to build experience.* Show results, not credentials  • In interviews, emphasize outcomes, metrics, and problem-solving over “courses taken.”  • Demonstrate how your work impacted something, however small.* Consider non-traditional entry paths  • Apprenticeships, technical residencies, bootcamp-plus internships.  • Some tech fellowships let you “earn while learning.”What Institutions & Industry Must DoTo make systemic change, certain players must act:* Universities / colleges:  • Update curricula quicker; partner with industry; offer more work-integrated learning programs.  • Bridge the gap between theory and current tools.* Tech companies / recruiters:  • Re-evaluate job descriptions: reduce arbitrary thresholds (years of experience, brand school).  • Build robust junior hire programs; commit to “grow-your-own” talent.  • Use transparency in hiring pipelines (publish how many fresh grads hired).* Government / policy makers:  • Incentivize companies to hire entry-level talent (tax credits, subsidies for training).  • Support tech education & apprenticeships.To conclude, The tech industry can't thrive if new talent is blocked at the door. To preserve innovation, companies must open pathways; graduates must be strategic about learning and positioning themselves.That is all for this week. See you again.Do let me know in comments or reply me over email to share what is your view on this post. So, Share, Like, subscribe whatever these days' kids say :-)Stay Connected, Share Ideas, Spread Happiness. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sridhargarikipati.substack.com

Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Graham Thomas, Chief Community and Government Relations Officer at tnAchieves, who highlights the nonprofit organization's efforts and mission "to enhance post-secondary opportunities and outcomes by providing holistic student supports rooted in community and accountability."During the interview, Graham explains the organization's partnership with the TN Promise scholarship and discusses their mentorship program and model, which over the years has created impressive success metrics, including increased college graduation rates from 11% to 41% and the completion of over 5 million hours of community service. He shares how the program has now surpassed the milestone of 50,000 graduates and how tnAchieves is connecting students to meaningful careers, with 85% choosing to stay in Tennessee.Graham then introduces their new Workforce Mentorship program, aiming to pair adult volunteers across the state with college students to provide guidance on job search, resume building, and interview skills, focusing on career interests. Jeremy and Graham discuss the impact of mentoring programs, focusing on the ROI for employers and the importance of mentorship in guiding students through academic and career challenges. Graham highlights a specific example of a student who received guidance from a mentor, which led to their academic success and career path. He emphasizes that small interventions, such as helping students navigate campus life, can significantly impact student retention and long-term success.Graham explains how community members can get involved with tnAchieves by visiting tnachieves.org and selecting the "I want to become a mentor" tab, which leads to a simple form and online training webinar. He outlines the program's goals, including helping students find meaningful employment and making informed decisions about their credentials and careers. Graham emphasizes the support provided to mentors, including weekly updates and access to staff, and encourages listeners to learn more and get involved through the website and social media platforms.Visit https://www.tnachieves.org to learn more and to get involved with tnAchieves.

This week, BCN shares a special episode of the Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs podcast. Hosts Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson interview Penny Burns, Beauty Cast Network's Founder. Penny discusses her journey from owning cosmetology schools to creating a digital platform that connects beauty graduates with employers. The conversation explores the challenges faced by students, the importance of quality education over hours, and the evolving role of tech in building successful careers. She also shares insights from her leadership roles and upcoming initiatives aimed at promoting beauty as a first-choice career path.To view this conversation and other episodes from Lulu and Sue, go tohttps://www.youtube.com/@ArtistsIconsEntrepreneurs

On last weeks podcast I talked you through the Breaking Free course in detail so do have a listen if you missed it I recently hosted a discussion on Zoom with four Breaking Free graduates which will give you a real insight into the results that people are getting… You'll hear from Grania and Helen who did the course last year and then you'll hear from Lynne and Lori who have just completed the latest program… On the podcast you'll hear the soundtrack from that discussion So if you want to be sure of a place on the next BF program which kicks off on 11th May then please sign up today as places are filling up fast You can sign up for Breaking Free here More Info Tribe Sober membership – you can join up HERE. To access our website, click HERE. If you would like a free copy of our “Annual Tracker” or our e-book 66 Days to Sobriety, please email janet@tribesober.com. If you would like to come to our Saturday afternoon Zoom Cafe as a guest and meet our community, just email janet@tribesober.com.   Episode Sponsor This episode is sponsored by the Tribe Sober Membership Program.  If you want to change your relationship with alcohol then sign up today Read more about our program and subscribe HERE Help us to Spread the Word! We made this podcast so that we can reach more people who need our help.  Please subscribe and share. If you enjoyed the podcast, then please leave us a 5-star review on Apple podcasts. Take a screenshot of your review, and DM it to Tribe Sober's Instagram page – see PS below for instructions. We'll send you something special to say thank you! We release a podcast episode every Saturday morning. You can follow Tribe Sober on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok and Instagram. You can join our private Facebook group HERE. PS: How to Leave a Rating/Review in Apple Podcasts (on an iOS Device) Open the Podcasts app. EASY. Choose “Search” from the bottom row of icons and enter the name of the show (e.g. Recover Like a Mother) into the search field. Select the show under Shows (not under Episodes). Scroll down past the first few episodes until you see Ratings & Reviews. Click Write a Review underneath the displayed reviews from other listeners. You'll then have the option to rate the show on a 5-star scale and write a review (you can rate without writing too but it's always good to read your experience).  

At 41 weeks, Hopey Fink and Ben Levin's birth plans shifted after elevated blood pressure readings led to an induction conversation. But, with the support of their doula, care team, and each other, the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class graduates navigated every twist with confidence. In this episode, Hopey and Ben reflect on preparing for a low-intervention birth, the role of comfort measures, how advocacy shaped their decisions in the hospital, and what it meant to welcome their daughter with joy and strength. They also share advice for expectant families on building flexibility into birth plans, communicating with your partner, and finding empowerment in telling your birth story.   (03:07) Planning a Low-Intervention Birth in the Hospital (06:38) Lessons from the Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Class (09:03) Navigating the Emotional Wait at 41 Weeks (12:52) Elevated Blood Pressure and the Induction Conversation (18:00) Advocating Around Pitocin and Weighing Risks (23:31) A Long Night with the Foley Balloon (30:16) When Progress Stalled and the Epidural Became a Tool (34:30) Rest, Progress, and a Smooth Pushing Stage (41:17) Advice for Expecting Parents: Flexibility, Partnership, and Storytelling   Resources Get the digital guide to comfort measures: ebbirth.com/pocket-guides   For more information about Evidence Based Birth® and a crash course on evidence based care, visit www.ebbirth.com. Follow us on Instagram and YouTube! Ready to learn more? Grab an EBB Podcast Listening Guide or read Dr. Dekker's book, "Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered!" If you want to get involved at EBB, join our Professional membership (scholarship options available) and get on the wait list for our EBB Instructor program. Find an EBB Instructor here, and click here to learn more about the EBB Childbirth Class.

Over 70 graduates from Irish and international third-level institutions, spanning disciplines such as engineering, IT, HR, commercial, marketing, and finance, have joined ESB's bespoke Graduate Programme. The programme offers each graduate the chance to work on impactful assignments and major projects, gaining hands-on experience across the diverse areas of the organisation. ESB's Graduate Development Programme forms part of an ambitious drive by the company to recruit talent from third-level institutions across the island of Ireland, and internationally, to support the delivery of its Net Zero by 2040 strategy. Graduates were welcomed to the organisation by Paddy Hayes, ESB Chief Executive at their recent induction. Throughout the duration of the programme each graduate will receive a range of supports including being partnered with individual mentors from within their chosen business unit, IT equipment and access to allow hybrid working as part of ESB's smart working offering. Sinéad Kilkelly, ESB's Executive Director, People & Organisation Development, said: "At ESB, our graduate programme places a strong emphasis on both professional and personal growth. These graduates have the opportunity to make an impact within the organisation and play their part as we work towards achieving our Net Zero by 2040 target. We look forward to supporting them throughout their journey at ESB and wish them every success as they begin their careers with us." Recruitment for our 2026 Graduate Development Programme opened yesterday, and ESB is inviting applications from all final-year and post-graduate students. Applications can be made via the ESB website: www.esb.ie/careers

Canada Immigration Provincial Pick for Skilled Worker Stream – Graduates (All Sectors) by New Brunswick on 19 September 2025Good day ladies and gentlemen, this is IRC News. I am Joy Stephen, a certified Canadian Immigration Practitioner, bringing you this Provincial News Bulletin from the province of New Brunswick. This recording originates from the Polinsys studios in Cambridge, Ontario.New Brunswick selected potential PNP nominees under the Skilled Worker Stream on 19 September 2025.Details of the draw released by the province:Stream: New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream – Graduates PathwayDraw period: August 11–19, 2025Cut-off date and time: August 10, 2025 (11:59 pm AST)Occupational categories selected: All sectorsInvitations issued: 389Note: The August 11–19 draw period did not include the following NOC codes:NOC 42201 – Social and Community Service WorkersNOC 62200 – ChefsNOC 75101 – Material HandlersYou can always access past news from the Province of New Brunswick by visiting: https://myar.me/tag/nb/For insights on the Provincial Express Entry Federal pool, Canadian Permanent Residence Programs, or other Canadian immigration pathways, connect with us here: https://myar.me/cJoin our complimentary Zoom resource meetings every Thursday, with a Q&A session with Canadian Authorized Representatives every Friday: https://myar.me/zoomLearn more about selecting a qualified immigration representative here: https://ircnews.ca/consultant

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Neumont College of Computer Science has been a key part of downtown Salt Lake City for over two decades, offering innovative industry‑influenced degrees that focus on cutting‑edge technology. Vice President, Mo Reeder, joins us with more. Mo Reeder: At Neumont College, we focus on preparing students for careers in technology. Our accredited programs allow students to earn bachelor's degrees in Software Engineering, Game Development, Applied AI, Data Engineering, and Cybersecurity in just three years. We also offer a Master's in Artificial Intelligence and a 21-week Cybersecurity Certificate. What makes Neumont unique is how closely we work with industry. Through externships, senior students contribute part-time to real-world projects, giving employers fresh talent and innovative ideas. The results speak for themselves. A Georgetown University study ranked Neumont as the nation's best return on investment in Computer Science. Graduates launch their careers with confidence, earning an average starting salary of around 77,000 dollars. We welcome you to come visit us on campus and see how Neumont is shaping Utah's tech future. Come take a tour at 143 South Main Street in Salt Lake City or visit our website today at Neumont.edu. Derek Miller: Neumont College of Computer Science is helping shape Utah's future by preparing skilled tech professionals. Through accelerated programs and industry partnerships, graduates enter the workforce ready to meet the state's growing technology needs and strengthen its economy. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 9/23/25

Send us a textSouth Carolina has always been enormously proud of its military Collegiate institution, the Citadel, in Charleston S.C. Senator Ernest Hollings was a proud graduate of the University as was so many very prominent people throughout the state. Graduates include Governor Justin Hagood, Pat Conroy, Charles Tew, Greg Davis, State Senator Stephen Goldfinch, U.S. Representatives Nancy Mace, Gresham Barrett,  and State Representative Thad Viers are all among the list. In this episode we listen in as Senator Strom Thurmond, himself a graduate of Clemson University back in the era when it was a military college, introduces Senator Bob Dole and welcomes him to the Citadel. In this episode, we will also see the University bestow on Bob Dole an honorary Doctorate of Laws, as they welcome a genuine American hero to the podium to address the class of 1994. We are not sure but we think , given the date of this event May 14, 1994, that the Senators left The Citadel and then headed to another event that honored Vietnam Veterans in Columbia S.C. It was there that our host, Randal Wallace, got a chance to meet Bob Dole and snap the only photograph he had with the Senator, back in the era before cell phone cameras made pictures an easy thing to get, and that photo is now the cover art for this Podcast series.  Questions or comments at , Randalrgw1@aol.com , https://twitter.com/randal_wallace , and http://www.randalwallace.com/Please Leave us a review at wherever you get your podcastsThanks for listening!!

Graduates looking to start a career in the public service are finding themselves at a loose end, qualified and ready to jump into the workforce, but with nowhere to go. In the past two years close to a third of graduate roles and internship places have been cut from the public service. For some, the dire state of the job industry is driving them overseas or forcing them to leave their degree behind and take any job they can get. Now a campaign is underway to try and get some of the public service roles reinstated. Evie Richardson reports.

Finding a role in today's energy and technology job market isn't straightforward. Graduates face shifting expectations, AI is changing traditional entry-level roles, and career paths often look more like spaghetti than a straight ladder. In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I sit down with Will Whitehorn OBE, Chancellor of Edinburgh Napier University and former Virgin Group executive, to talk about what this means for anyone trying to build a career in energy, technology, or beyond.We cover the reality of graduate employment, why AI is both a disruptor and an opportunity, and how careers often unfold in unexpected but rewarding ways.✨ Three Takeaways You Can Apply Today·

Applying for jobs is TOUGH. First you've got to find the adverts and openings, then there's the mental energy and time required to put in an application - and that's before you get to the nerve wracking interviews. But some of us are finding that process even harder than normal - putting in loads of applications and never hearing back. Some recent studies suggest that AI is a contributing factor, with younger workers being replaced by AI in some industries.Companies like Amazon and Duolingo have said using AI is going to lead to a reduction in their workforce. We hear some of your experiences in the current job market. BBC business reporter in New York, Nathalie Jimenez explains which sectors are most affected by the adoption of generative AI - and what you can do to try to adapt. Plus Varun Mayya, a YouTuber and the founder of generative AI company Aeos tells us what the situation is like in India - and how AI is changing how his company operates. Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Chelsea Coates, Benita Barden and Julia Ross-Roy Video Journalist: Jem Westgate Editor: Verity Wilde

How can universities equip students with the knowledge and skills they will need to succeed in a job market that is ever changing and increasingly difficult to forecast? The answer, Thomas Jefferson University president Susan Aldridge says, lies in an interdisciplinary and applied approach to learning. In this video podcast, she describes how the institution has achieved a 98% success rate for graduates in employment or further study, the benefits of bringing students from different disciplines together, upskilling everyone in the use of AI and why US university leaders need a joined-up strategy for communicating the value of higher education. Thanks to Thomas Jefferson University for sponsoring this episode.  

2022 GRADUATES??? GUILTY AS CHARGED PART 2

Welcome to another episode of the Cookbook Love Podcast. Today on the Cookbook Love Podcast, I'm sharing what I call the hidden beginning of publishing. Over the years, we've talked a lot about the types of publishing — self, traditional, and hybrid — and we've heard from hundreds of authors who've chosen each of those paths. But behind the scenes, there's another part of the publishing journey we rarely talk about: the inner life of a cookbook author, and that's what we're going to talk about today. Publishing isn't just about producing a book. It's about letting the love you already live with spill over into something permanent, dignified, and shareable. Things We Mention in This Episode: Doors are open for enrollment in Cookbooks on KDP Interviews with Graduates of Cookbooks on KDP: Episode 352: Kasey Lobb Episode 356: Cristina Carolan Episode 313: Gerry Romano and Katelin Maidment Episode 287: Lorraine Carlstrom Episode 288: Chantal Secours  

Aubrey Masango speaks to Judy Robinson, Director the Forvis Mazars Institute of Development who shares insights on whether or not South African graduates are ready for the job market. They touch on the need to look at what industry requires and ways to integrate those needs in tertiary education to better prepare graduates. Tags: 702, The Aubrey Masango Show, Aubrey Masango, Education Feature, Graduates, Jobs, Employment, Skills development, Learning, Readiness The Aubrey Masango Show is presented by late night radio broadcaster Aubrey Masango. Aubrey hosts in-depth interviews on controversial political issues and chats to experts offering life advice and guidance in areas of psychology, personal finance and more. All Aubrey’s interviews are podcasted for you to catch-up and listen. Thank you for listening to this podcast from The Aubrey Masango Show. Listen live on weekdays between 20:00 and 24:00 (SA Time) to The Aubrey Masango Show broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and on CapeTalk between 20:00 and 21:00 (SA Time) https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk Find out more about the show here https://buff.ly/lzyKCv0 and get all the catch-up podcasts https://buff.ly/rT6znsn Subscribe to the 702 and CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfet Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The energy transition brings both opportunity and challenge. Whether you're a graduate just entering the sector, an innovator trying to scale, or an established professional navigating change, the path forward isn't always clear. In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I speak with Richard Halsey, Innovation Director at the National Energy Systems Catapult, about how businesses, graduates, and innovators can find their place in shaping the energy system of the future.We discuss how startups and established companies alike can drive progress, what it really takes to bring new energy products to market, and why building diverse skills and collaborations is essential for success.✨ Three Takeaways You Can Apply Today·

In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Arthur Menard de Calenge, the visionary CEO and Founder of HAVN to delve into a topic that's often overlooked but critically important: EMF exposure and its impact on our health. We explore how the invisible radiation emitted by everyday devices—like cell phones, laptops, and Wi-Fi routers—can affect our fertility, hormone balance, and overall well-being. Arthur shares insights from over 2,200 peer-reviewed studies linking EMF exposure to adverse health effects, including decreased sperm count and motility, DNA damage, and increased oxidative stress. But it's not all doom and gloom. Arthur also discusses practical steps we can take to mitigate these risks, such as maintaining distance from emitting devices, using EMF meters to measure exposure, and adopting protective measures like switching to wired headphones. He also introduces HAVN's innovative WaveStopper™ fabric, inspired by spacesuit technology, which blocks 99.7% of EMF radiation and is incorporated into everyday clothing items like hats, underwear, and laptop pads. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the science behind EMF exposure and learning actionable strategies to protect themselves in our increasingly connected world. Key Takeaways: EMF Exposure and Health: EMF exposure can have significant adverse effects on human health, particularly male fertility, through mechanisms like increased reactive oxygen species. Protective Measures: Simple everyday adjustments, such as removing cell phones from pockets and turning off Wi-Fi routers during sleep, can significantly reduce EMF exposure. HAVN's Product Innovation: HAVN offers a range of clothing and accessories designed to block EMF radiation, utilizing technology inspired by space suits. Scientific Support and Awareness: Over 2,200 studies have linked EMF exposure to various health risks, emphasizing the need for greater public awareness and precaution. Practical Benefits for Athletes: Top athletes, including Rudy Gobert, use HAVN products to enhance recovery and performance by reducing EMF-induced stress and enhancing heart rate variability. More About Arthur Menard de Calenge: Arthur Menard is a Forbes 30 Under 30 entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, and the founder of HAVN (havnwear.com), the world's first EMF-blocking apparel designed for daily wear. Trusted by doctors, elite athletes, and the U.S. Air Force, HAVN's patented WaveStopperTM fabric blocks 99.7% of radiation from everyday tech, helping reduce risks tied to fertility, hormones, and cognitive health. Since launch, HAVN has sold over 250,000 products to more than 70,000 customers worldwide. Arthur holds an MS in Biology & Engineering from AgroParisTech and an MBA from HEC Paris. His mission is to help people live longer, feel better, and thrive in a connected world. Website Instagram LinkedIn Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube This episode is sponsored by Professional Co-op®, where clinicians gain exceptional access to industry-leading lab services without the hefty price tag—since 2001, they've been redefining what efficient, patient-focused support looks like. Imagine no hidden fees, no minimums, and only paying for completed tests. Experience lab services that not only meet but also exceed your expectations. Join the co-op trusted by countless licensed clinicians nationwide. Visit www.professionalco-op.com to learn more! This episode is also made possible by Functional Medicine University. FMU is a fully online, self-paced training program in functional medicine, founded in 2006 by Dr. Ron Grisanti. With students in all 50 U.S. states and 68 countries globally, FMU has become a cornerstone in advanced clinical education for healthcare practitioners. The curriculum is led by Dr. Grisanti, alongside contributions from over 70 distinguished medical experts on FMU's advisory board. Graduates earn the prestigious Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (CFMP®) credential upon completion. FMU is also a nationally approved provider of continuing education for a wide range of licensed professionals, including MDs, DCs, DOs, NDs, acupuncturists, PAs, NPs, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and dentists. Whether you're looking to expand your clinical knowledge or bring a functional approach to your practice, FMU offers the tools, guidance, and certification to help you thrive. Visit www.functionalmedicineuniversity.com to learn more!

Ever wish you could sit down with a homeschool graduate and ask: "What do you wish someone had told you?" Here's that conversation. In this episode, host Lisa Bailey interviews a recent Classical Conversations graduate who completed the entire program. This candid conversation reveals the unvarnished truth about homeschooling's challenges and triumphs from someone who lived it. The discussion covers essential wisdom about procrastination, time management, and learning to take ownership of your education. Listeners hear about the notorious Challenge B year when parent-child relationships are tested, the moment when all the pieces of classical education finally connect, and how tools like anti-charts and logical thinking continue serving graduates in real-world situations. For parents questioning their educational investment and students feeling overwhelmed by Challenge program responsibilities, this conversation provides both encouragement and practical strategies drawn from lived experience navigating the full classical education journey.   This episode of Everyday Educator is sponsored by the Classical Learning Cohort and Judson College: Judson College, North Carolina's only four-year accredited confessional Christian institution, equips passionate students with over 25 majors and exceptional faculty to pursue God's calling in ministry, missions, or the workplace while experiencing vibrant community through our unique House System. We're committed to making your divine calling affordable through extensive scholarships and special SBC church member discounts, so you can give your life for Christ's cause without overwhelming financial burden. Ready to answer your calling? Find out what makes Judson College experience different. https://judsoncollege.com/distinctives/   Are you a CC parent or graduate wanting to become a more confident classical educator? Why not sample the CLC by attending a free, online "Experience the CLC" event at classicalconversations.com/cohort. Find a time that fits your schedule.

Sligo Rovers manager John Russell reveals the development of the Sligo Rovers academy in the last few years and the progress they are making on and off the pitch.Ger and Nathan enquire about the future of Owen Elding.Off the Ball Breakfast with UPMC

The gut microbiome isn't just about digestion, it's the command center influencing everything from mental health and immune resilience to athletic performance and chronic disease risk. In this episode, Dr. Leo Grady unpacks the gut's far-reaching role in human health, highlighting its intricate connections with the immune and nervous systems, nutrient processing, and hormonal regulation. But this conversation goes beyond biology. Dr. Grady introduces cutting-edge innovations in artificial intelligence and genomic sequencing that are reshaping how we study and support the gut. From AI-driven digital twin models to precision dietary and lifestyle interventions, listeners will discover how technology is unlocking a future where gut health can be measured, predicted, and personalized like never before. Whether you're a clinician, health enthusiast, or simply curious about the next frontier in medicine, this episode will change the way you think about your gut and the future of healthcare itself. Key Takeaways: Every aspect of health, including metabolic disorders and mental health, is linked to the gut microbiome. Jonah utilizes advanced AI and genomic sequencing to provide comprehensive gut microbiome analysis. AI's ability to simulate dietary and lifestyle changes can inform personalized health interventions. Shifts in gut microbiome environments indicate possible precursors to diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Personalized medicine through AI-driven insights offers an innovative approach to optimize health outcomes. More About Dr. Leo Grady, PhD: Dr. Leo Grady is an internationally recognized leader in applying AI to healthcare, with over 20 years of experience across pioneering startups and global medical companies. As CEO of Paige.ai, he guided the company to industry leadership, launching groundbreaking products worldwide and securing the first-ever FDA approval for an AI product in pathology. Today, as Founder and CEO of Jona, Dr. Grady is spearheading the use of AI and digital twin technology to decode and reshape the gut microbiome, unlocking new ways to transform human health. A prolific innovator, he has authored two books on AI, published over 100 scientific papers, and holds more than 300 patents. His work has earned him the Edison Patent Award and induction as a Fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering. Dr. Grady earned his Ph.D. in Cognitive and Neural Systems from Boston University and currently also serves as CEO in Residence with Breyer Capital. Website Instagram Jona Health's Instagram Facebook Jona Health's LinkedIn Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube This episode is sponsored by Professional Co-op®, where clinicians gain exceptional access to industry-leading lab services without the hefty price tag—since 2001, they've been redefining what efficient, patient-focused support looks like. Imagine no hidden fees, no minimums, and only paying for completed tests. Experience lab services that not only meet but also exceed your expectations. Join the co-op trusted by countless licensed clinicians nationwide. Visit www.professionalco-op.com to learn more! This episode is also made possible by Functional Medicine University. FMU is a fully online, self-paced training program in functional medicine, founded in 2006 by Dr. Ron Grisanti. With students in all 50 U.S. states and 68 countries globally, FMU has become a cornerstone in advanced clinical education for healthcare practitioners. The curriculum is led by Dr. Grisanti, alongside contributions from over 70 distinguished medical experts on FMU's advisory board. Graduates earn the prestigious Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (CFMP®) credential upon completion. FMU is also a nationally approved provider of continuing education for a wide range of licensed professionals, including MDs, DCs, DOs, NDs, acupuncturists, PAs, NPs, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and dentists. Whether you're looking to expand your clinical knowledge or bring a functional approach to your practice, FMU offers the tools, guidance, and certification to help you thrive. Visit www.functionalmedicineuniversity.com to learn more!

In this special presentation, Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind '91, USAFA's 22nd superintendent, shares an inside look into cadet development and answers graduate questions. Hosted by Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz '99, this episode dives into the Academy's mission and how it is preparing our nation's future warfighters.   FULL TRANSCRIPT SPEAKERS Guest:  Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind '91  |  Host:  Lt. Col. (Ret.)Navire Walkewicz '99   Naviere Walkewicz This special edition of the Air Force Gradcast is a production of the Long Blue Line Podcast Network, presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation. I'm your host, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz, Class of '99. We're honored to feature the superintendent of the United States Air Force Academy, Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, Class of '91. In this presentation, Gen. Bauernfeind will share important updates on current initiatives and developments at our Air Force Academy. Following his remarks, he and I will sit down for a conversation, during which he'll respond to questions submitted by graduates in our alumni community. So now, without further ado, Gen. Bauernfeind. Thank you for being here, sir.   Gen. Bauernfeind Well, Naviere, thank you so much for allowing us to come and share our story of our wonderful Air Force Academy. And thank you as well to the Association of Graduates and the Foundation for all of the incredible support that we receive to develop our future leaders into the warrior leaders that we need on Day 1 in our Air Force and Space Force.   Naviere Walkewicz Yes, sir, we are grateful you're here, and we can't wait to hear what you're able to share with us today, sir, so we can jump ahead if you're ready.   Gen. Bauernfeind Wonderful. So I would like to share with you an updated mission brief of where we are going at the United States Air Force Academy. And during this time, I'd like to share not only our leadership team that's taking on the transformation that has been mandated, but also to update our alumni on our mission, our vision, our priorities and our mission sets, as well as talk about how we are creating warfighters, leaders of character and quality, and critical thinkers, and provide an update of how we are transforming this amazing institution to develop those warrior leaders that we need to keep our adversaries at bay. So as always, I'd like to start all briefings with a little video that highlights what our cadets are doing and our incredible public affairs team and video team put together the following video that shows what our cadets have been doing over the last six months... ...So you can see that our cadets have been absolutely busy over the last few months, and I can attest that this summer is they brought the problems up even more and are bringing even more energy to their training, their education, their development. But let me first talk about the amazing team at the senior leadership levels at the United States Air Force Academy, because we cannot do what we're doing without this incredible team. So first, we're welcoming reader Gen. Nicholas Evans as our new vice superintendent, coming out as the 18th Wing commander at Kadena Air Base, bringing a wonderful operational experience to bear, as well as academic bona fides to be our vice superintendent. Our command chief remains Command Chief John Alsvig and our commandant remains to be Brig. Gen. Marks and Col. Steve Hasstedt is our acting dean as we work to bring a new dean into bear. Ms. Gail Colvin is our stalwart chief of staff, with her wisdom from the Class of '80 that keeps us moving forward. Ms. Jen Block is our executive athletic director. Mr. Nate Pine is our director of athletics, and our brand new wing commander, the 10th Air Base Wing, Col. Ahave Brown. And we all know that nothing happens at USAFA without the 10th Air Base wing providing the foundational support. But also Col. Taylor from the 306 Flying Training Wing, and Col. Silva is our space detachment commander, and it's important that we have all those leaders that are helping us transform USAFA. And to that transformation, we talk about our updated mission statement that was approved last fall. And that updated mission statement is that “USAFA's mission is to forge leaders of character motivated to a lifetime of service and developed to lead our Air Force and Space Force as we fight and win our nation's wars.” And for the alumni, as we went through this mission statement development, we realized that there are many activities we take on at the United States Air Force Academy. There's education, there's training, there's motivation, inspiration, development. And we realized that we are taking the most amazing women and men from all four corners of this United States, and we're bringing them here as raw materials, and we are taking them through high-stress military, academic and athletic programs to forge them into something stronger than what they were when they showed up. And those are the leaders of character. We also wanted to make sure that we highlighted that it's about delivering a lifetime of service to our nation. It doesn't mean that every graduate needs to do 34-plus years in active duty like I'm currently doing, but continue to give back, whether that's in active duty, the Guard the Reserve, to your community in the defense industry, as an elected official or as a key supporter in our alumni networks — keep serving our nation. And then finally, an acknowledgement that we, alongside our teammates at West Point and Annapolis, have a very special mandate that we are developing those warrior leaders that will fight and win our nation's wars. While we hope that we will achieve peace through strength and deter our adversaries, we must always be ready when the nation calls and we will go forward and deliver victory for our nation. So it's important in our mission, but a mission will only take us so far. And the next step is acknowledging that we must have a vision. What is our North Star? And our North Star is we will remain and continue to be the nation's premier service academy. That we're bringing in rigorous, adversary-focused military training, military training that achieves a standard, that achieves a requirement, and not just training for training sake. But also maintain our level as a nationally recognized academic program with highly competitive athletics, and acknowledging that for us to deliver on those four, we must continue to sustain a world-class installation. But more importantly, continue to bring in professional and dedicated permanent party into our faculty. Our coaches, our headquarters, our installation support requires our outstanding permanent party. And so our vision moves us forward. And from our mission and our vision, we have established three key priorities, and those priorities will guide our decision making. But let me take your attention to the bottom first. The bottom is our foundational aspect, that we build all of our aspects upon our service core values of our Air Force and our Space Force of integrity first, service before self, excellence in all we do, courage, character, connection and commitment. And those we build upon further foundationally to acknowledge that we are in the military and all aspects of military operations activities require a strict adherence to standard. What is the task that we are executing? What are the conditions on which we will execute those tasks? And what standards do we expect, especially in high end warfare, where our standards are so tight. We also acknowledge that what is special about us is our Honor Code. It is foundational to our character, and we'll talk more about that as we build upon this. But realizing that the Class of '59 that established our Honor Code. It has been foundational to the development of our leaders of character and quality as a board, and then adding into the fact that leaders who built lethal warfighting teams — they do it from a position of respect and teamwork, that they take their team and they support them, they hold them accountable, but they push them to rise above what they could think they could personally achieve. And how do we build those future leaders that are going to take teammates from all four corners of this United States and make sure every single teammate is seen, heard and valued and can give everything possible to the mission at hand? And that leads us to our priorities. That our priorities are we are here to forge warfighters to win, to inspire leaders of character and quality, and finally, to motivate critical thinkers to adapt, because all three are important. And that takes us to our mission sets, because those three priorities span across everything we do in a cadet's journey at the United States Air Force Academy. And the first is acknowledging the military training aspect. That military training goes beyond just learning how to put a uniform on, just how to march correctly, but also understanding how to operate inside of Air Force and Space Force norms and take on those military training activities that our Air Force and Space Force are taking on right now with Ready Airmen Training and the ability to execute agile combat deployment. And that's activities like being able to shoot, move, communicate, medicate and automate, but also acknowledging that we also must have that world-class academic program that challenges our future leaders not what to think, but how to think, and to do that from a warfighting-focused curriculum that is very STEM focused, but also leans in hard to how we can leverage the incredible intellect that these cadets are bringing in today and unleash them on some of the hardest Air Force and Space Force problems through our research programs as we lean into it. And then finally, as we talk about our competitive athletics, that athletics is a key aspect of the cadet's journey, whether it be through our 30 incredible intercollegiate sports teams, our intramural programs, our physical education programs, or finally our physical fitness tests that demonstrate the warrior ethos that is being expected of a military service academy, and it's important that we look across those. But let me talk about a little further of our priorities from those three lenses. The first is the aspect of warfighters win, of how we're bringing in training such as shoot, move, communicate, medicate and automate. And I've heard some teammates are going, “Why are we doing this ground focused training?” And at the end of the day, it's not ground focused training, it's joint force training. This is where our Air Force is going. That we still need to be able to succeed in the air, space, cyber domains, but we must also deliver excellence in these domains. With shoot, I requested that all of our cadets now become qualified in their long gun, the M4, and their sidearm, the M18, every single year. So now they'll have the confidence of their weapons when they have to go forward into harm's way. The same with move and communicate. Can they understand the aspects of mission command, especially in future fights where we may not have the best connectivity with our highest headquarters? Will they understand commander's intent and still be able to generate the combat power we need to keep our adversaries on their heels? Finally, to medicate. Over the last few decades, we have benefited from the golden hour, where we had such dominance that when we had a teammate isolated or injured, we would have medical care a rescue capability to them inside the hour. Future battlefields will likely not give us that luxury. So we must teach our future leaders those advanced medical capabilities to take care of their injured teammates while they're continuing to generate combat power. And finally, as we have seen from the Iranian wars and the Ukrainian wars, automation is here and part of modern warfare. And so how are we going to bring automation capabilities to our future leaders so they can develop the new TTPs that we are working through. And again, thank you to the Association of Graduates and Foundation, because you all provided the seed funding for our first automation efforts this summer. So thank you so much. And let me dig in a little further on why warfighters win. And from our president and our secretary of defense, it has been very clear that they want us to establish peace through strength, that we must develop our ways in three areas: to restore the warrior ethos, to rebuild our military and to reestablish deterrence. And we have gotten that guidance very clear from our leadership, and we will prepare our future leaders in that mind. And we have added that over the last year by bringing in year round warfighting training. So not only during the summer periods, but also through the academic year, are we asking our future warrior leaders to take on the military mission, the academic mission and the athletic mission as we move forward. And as discussed, it is directly aligned to our Air Force with Ready Airman Training and our agile combat employment. And over the last year, we took our baby steps. We're not where we need to be, but I can tell you I'm proud of how far we've come, because we moved forward with energy and violence through the fall and spring culminating exercises. I'm proud of how far we've come, but now for this year, we're gonna enter into the walk phase, because we have more to go. And with that in mind, there's been conversations of recognition and promotion, and that is tied not only to our leadership development, but also to our warfighting training. And it's an acknowledgement that for every year you at the Air Force Academy, we are purposely developing you and increasing your capabilities. And so we are going to provide the expectations for your year, whether you're four-degree, three-degree, two-degree or first-degree — a firstie — and you must meet those training standards, and if you do not meet the training standards, then we are not going to recognize you for your past work, but if you meet our standards, then we are going to recognize you for the good work and promote you to the next grade. But the ultimate promotion being a Second Lieutenant in our Air Force and Space Force as it goes forward. Over the last year, there are teeth of this. We did have 153 cadets that were not recognized due to not meeting the standards, but we are now providing them the options over the summer and this fall to now meet the standards as we move forward. Also this year, focusing on warfighting, is acknowledging that we must arm the cadets to be the instructors. Last year, we did it very quickly. Now we're going to take advantage of our incredible cadets, just like our cadets do exceptional things — teaching each other how to fly, teaching other each other how to jump during our freefall program — but now we are working through the cadet warfighter instructor course, a beta course, where we will teach cadets to be those instructors inside of our squadrons in the academic year, to take on how to teach, how to shoot, to move, to communicate, automate and medicate. And we are one more week left in our inaugural cadet warfighter instructor course. I know we will learn much from this beta iteration, but I'm excited to see what we learned from this as we go into the academic year and unleash these cadets and train ourselves. We're also very appreciative from the Foundation for the establishment of the Institute for Future Conflict. And the Institute for Future Conflict has been around for a couple of years and has already forced us to focus and think differently. And I would offer to you the reason behind that is because they are focused on our adversaries. So I like to call them our adversary focused disruptors. They are going to bring ideas to bear that force us to change the way we develop our cadets for the future, because they're looking at what our adversaries are doing. And as such, we made the decision to elevate them into Headquarters USAFA, so they can have a wider impact, not only within the dean of faculty, but also within the Cadet Wing and the Athletic Department, so we can ensure that we are bringing those disruptive thoughts and putting them into in place so we prepare our leaders for a very uncertain world, to include bringing realism into the training that our cadets are taking on. We're also acknowledging academically, there's more that we have to do with our intellect. And over the last year, we have added three additional warfighting minors, one on quantum, one on aerospace materials, and we're in the final stages of establishing a warfighting minor on future conflict. Hopefully that we will be able to start providing that to our cadets over the next year, as we went into that so very excited to the growth in our academic options. And then finally, athletically, we're updating our PT standards, and we're adding additional PE courses for our future leaders. Our future leaders — we will increase water survival, especially when we look to the future and the regions where we expect to potentially have conflict, increased water survival is important — as well as increased combatives, and we're still in the final stages of planning of how we can bring a team focused final warfighting capstone physical education course that brings all of that physical education together for a team-focused event for our firsties, but still in the planning stages of that. And as discussed, updating our PT standards to align with our Air Force and our Space Force, with an acknowledgement that simply what we were doing is adding minimums to each of the caveats to ensure that you must pass each individual event while also meeting a score-based event as we move forward. Again, aligning with our Air Force and Space Force. Now, as we transform, it's not just about warfighters to win. It's also about leaders of character and quality. As I like to say, it's developing leaders who do the right thing the right way, even if it's unpopular, because we must have leaders that are willing to stand up and do the right thing for the formation. And we focused on that. We have focused on reinforcing standards and accountability. While initially it was permanent party coming in fairly strong to establish the standards and accountability, what we quickly saw from our amazing future generation was cadets going, “We've got this. We will establish it. We will uphold our standards. We will uphold our accountability.” And to me, that's very important to see that our next generation is taking ownership of that key leadership aspect, to even include honor. As many know, we had a pretty significant honor violation last year. The bad news is that occurred. The good news is it was the cadets themselves who came forward and said, “This happened, and this is our way forward.” As in all situations, though, anytime you point a finger at somebody, three fingers pointing back at yourself, we realized that institutionally, we had probably lowered the standards too far. We didn't expect enough, and we had parsed the Honor Code. And we made the decision to return to our roots and say, “No, the Honor Code is holistic. It will not be parsed.” But we do acknowledge that these amazing men and women that come from all four corners are coming to us in different stages of their character development, and so the sanctions that come from an honor violation for somebody with us for a few weeks or a couple months may be far different than the sanctions of somebody that are weeks or months out from commissioning and graduation. So ensuring that we have a tiered sanction system to deal with our honor violations. I'm very proud of the ownership that our cadets took with our honor system, and we are reinforcing their efforts as we move forward. We've also pivoted strongly to a four-class system. My observation was is through time at the Air Force Academy, we've ebbed and flowed from a four-class leadership development system to a fourth-class leadership development system. I would offer that we had gone to the point where the majority of training and focus was on the four-degrees, when we are blessed to have these our future leaders for 47 months, and we should be developing them the entire 47 months. And so we have developed the fourth-class leadership system, where for their four-degree year, we will focus them on being good teammates and followers. For the three-degree year, we will focus on them being good frontline engaged supervisors, two-degrees as team leaders and firsties as unit leaders, representing those roles in our Air Force from cadet squadron commander to DO, to executive officer, to A1 through A6 staff positions and flight commander and taking on those responsibilities. And again, just like we talked about work by training, there's assessment mechanisms for each of these that they must meet leadership assessments that will go into whether or not they are recognized and promoted to the next grade, as it moves forward. We executed the first year. Last year, I would offer that it was successful, but we've learned much from the process, and as we go into the second year, I think we're going to be able to go even further with our four-class leadership and development. We've also doubled down on discipline, that standards and accountability are important, and if you fail to meet our standards, then you must be held accountable, not only with punitive aspects, but also with rehabilitative aspects. It's a two-edged pincer movement as we went forward, and from my time at the Academy, I will offer to you, while I may not have enjoyed it at the time, I benefited greatly from both, because it forced me to reflect upon what got me in that situation and how I can take ownership of my own development as we move forward. So that is one of the aspects we return to. And then finally, for our National Character and Leadership Symposium: Let's focus on those character elements that we find through warfighting. And so last fall's was focused on, how are we going to develop warfighters to win? And then for next year, we're going to focus on the courage required to overcome adversity in a warfighting environment. And so I'm very excited as we get the speakers identified for both the fall, a shorter fall iteration, and the normal spring iteration, sharing those speakers with the wider alumni environment. And then finally, talking about those critical thinkers to adapt. I jokingly tell our cadets that, since I was in the '90s, we got to solve all the easy problems, and all that is left are all the wicked hard problems, but we need those critical thinkers to adapt, because they are going to bring the ingenuity, they're going to bring the innovation, and what I've challenged them is they also have to bring the courage to challenge the status quo. Too many times in our military, when we ask why we do something, if the answer is, “We've always done it that way,” then maybe we need to rethink and understand, are there better ways to do it? And I can tell you, our cadets bring that to bear. And so for this year, we're really focused on cadet empowerment and responsibility. Last year with the mandate, we moved very quickly, and we were more directive in nature. And what we heard loud and clear is that cadets hurdled over our expectations. What we heard loud and clear from them was, “We want to control the way forward.” And so how do we empower them more? And how do we make it clear that they are responsible not only for their mission, but their people? And adding to that of spending more time with them with these changes of why are we doing this change, and making sure that they understand the rest of the story. You may not always like the why, but if you have an appreciation of the why, its foundation will be able to execute mission command, because you now understand commander's intent, and you now can go, “I know the why. We can keep moving forward, because we can move forward with that.” We're also focusing on operationalizing all of the United States Air Force Academy, bringing that operational mindset to bear, from whether it would be establishing an A2 directorate in the headquarters and the cadet wing and in all cadet squadrons, and the DA2 director being our intelligence directorate, so that we can start to bring in classified intelligence briefings and give them not only to a permanent party, but to our future leaders. And we started that last January to great success, so that our future leaders can start to understand not only our and our allies capabilities, but our adversary capabilities and how we will conduct our joint warfighting aspects as we move forward. And it's important that we continue to bring in those operational matters so we prepare the cadets of today for the second lieutenants of tomorrow that can seamlessly nest in to how our Air Force and our Space Force operates. And that's a nicer way of saying is some of the USAFA unique things we've done— we probably need to think about how we're doing that in our Air Force and Space Force. We're also doubling down that cadet squadrons are the unit of action, just like it is in our Air Force, that the squadron is the unit of action. And it's tough at USAFA where you may prioritize your IC team, or your major, or your club, but at the end of the day, it's going to be the squadron that succeeds together as a team. And so we are focusing on making sure that we are reinforcing what the cadet squadrons are doing. They are going to go through their military training together. They're going to go through their culminating exercises together, same as recognition and promotion. And that's important as we focus on the four-class system of those teammates, followers, frontline engaged supervisors, team leaders, unit leaders, but also acknowledging that we must empower cadet leaders to own the responsibility of their units. And I recently sat down with cadet squadron commanders and their special staffs and said, “Congratulations, you're the cadet commanders. You are responsible for two things: your mission and your people. It's not just about marching at the front of a formation. It's about executing the mission you've been given, whether that mission be military, academics or athletics, and taking care of your people.” And as such, we have established special staffs inside of each cadet squadron, every wing in the Air Force, most groups and many squadrons have special staff to both support the unit, but more importantly, advise the commander, because the commander is the one who's ultimately responsible for their people. And so we are bringing cadet special staff — which they may not be the subject matter experts in equal opportunity, integrated prevention response, spiritual matters or medical matters. They are there to support the squadron, advise the commander and have that connectivity to our subject matter experts, whether it be our chaplaincy, whether that be our amazing medical group and cadet clinic, our amazing SAPR team and all the helping agencies across USAFA to make sure that we can support all of our cadets going through a high-demand developmental program at the United States Air Force Academy. And the twist on that is again, saying, “Commanders, you are the ones who are responsible.” And now let's give you the tools to be successful as the permanent party are there to advise and oversight, empower our cadets even more. And then the final one is a return to decorum training. We conducted a beta test last year to success, and now we're looking to see how we can bring forward that decorum training for the entirety of the Cadet Wing. I am not this is not a return to the days of wine pairings, you know, but it is an acknowledgement that as an officer in our Air Force and Space Force, when you go to events, you're not only representing yourself, you're representing your team, you're representing your unit. And what are those decorum skills you need to have at events so that you can develop networks with teammates that might be outside your normal operational circle, or how do you ensure how you engage with other teammates so you can learn more about the world you're in? And so it's important that we establish that decorum focus and looking forward to how we can squeeze that in into the complicated lives of all of our cadets as we move forward. And then, just to reinforce on the critical thinking, I've already talked about the three minors we added, but I'm proud to say that we're in close coordination right now with Gen. Tullos at Air University and about to sign the memorandum of understanding where we will start a beta test for offering master's degree classes at the United States Air Force Academy, with the long-term intent of offering master's degrees at United States Air Force Academy under the Air Force Institute of Technology certification. So we have much to learn, but the doorway is open, and I can tell you from looking at so many of our cadets that come in with 20, 30, 40 college credit hours already, I think we have cadets that are ready to take on that journey, and I look forward to giving an update on that after we get through some of our initial how does this work process. So just to summarize: Our mission, our vision, our priorities are delivering what we need. And it's those warrior leaders that are ready on Day 1 in our Air Force and Space Force. And thanks to our amazing team, whether it be in the senior leader team, but more importantly, those incredible permanent party that are working long hours, whether it's in Fairchild Hall, Sijan Hall, Vandenberg Hall, in the tunnels, in the heat plant, in the Child Development Center, down at Clune Arena, out in Jacks Valley — our permanent party are crushing it, and it's important because our nation deserves the best leaders that we can give the 330,000 airmen and guardians that are standing watch for our nation. Thank you.   Naviere Walkewicz Thank you for sharing the mission brief. I think many of us as graduates think we know what happens at the Academy, but you actually sharing what you accomplished in just a year is a bit mind blowing, sir.   Gen. Bauernfeind Thank you. And I, at times, am concerned at how fast we are moving, but I also know that we must move this fast. The adversaries are watching us, and they are choosing when is the right time to test our nation. And so in order to achieve peace through strength, we must display that deterrence, that warfighting ethos, that warfighting capability. So we keep our adversaries waking up every single morning going, “Today is not today to test the United States.”   Naviere Walkewicz Yes, sir, that is right on point. Yes, sir. Well, I would like to thank you in advance for taking on additional questions from our alumni and our graduate community. So if we might start, general, with some of the information across various channels that cuts about to our academics and the Department of Faculty, what would you be willing to share about the civilian workforce reductions and any next to the Academy's academic faculty?   Gen. Bauernfeind First and foremost, the reduction of civilians is not just civilian faculty. It's through all civilians at the United States Air Force Academy, and as we're tracking, throughout the entire Department of Defense. What makes it a little more challenging at the United States Air Force Academy is we have so many different civilian teammates, from firefighters to childcare workers to coaches to headquarters staff, personnel and faculty. And as we lean into the aspect, the conversations about all of our civilian teammates. The first challenge that we faced is historically, the United States Air Force Academy has been over our civilian paid budget, and we've received great support from the Department of Air Force to address our over execution. This year is a little different, and so that has to be a baseline consideration as we understand that— that we have to hire and maintain civilian teammates within the budget that the American public has given us as a lean forward. And to that point, thank you to the Association of Graduates and the Foundation, as well as other Academy-focused foundations that have provided volunteer and funded volunteer support to give us that additional margin of excellence that helps us mitigate this matter. With respect to fiscal year '25, our Air Force is going through a reduction of civilian personnel to the tune of 5,000 billets. Of those 5,000 billets, the portion of the United States Air Force Academy was a part of was a 140 billets. And as we have moved through that reduction of 140 billets, we identified 104 billets as we went through our prioritization that were unencumbered or empty, but lower priority. Unfortunately, there are 36 billets that were encumbered, so someone inside of that billet as we move forward. And the goal with that is to continually work over the coming months of how we can move teammates laterally into open billets, either at the United States Air Force Academy or other locations. So we keep their expertise inside of the greater Air Force, Space Force enterprise, and our A1 team continues to work that aspect. But it's also making sure that we're being very clear with our teammates that when those billets become unfunded, at some point without funding, we're having to pay for that billet via other means. And so it's important for us to have frank conversations with our teammates, to say, “Update your resume. Start looking. At some point this will move forward.” With respect to our faculty members, 16 took advantage of the government's deferred resignation program, which was a well-funded early retirement program which allowed them to leave in the spring under and basically on admin leave and retain their pay to later in the fall/winter timeframe as that moves forward. We also had three that already had planned retirements, so they were moving forward. Unfortunately, we see a hiring freeze so no backfill. But also three whose terms are many of our senior faculty, our term employees, at the end of their term came. And so we have backfilled them with active-duty and Reserve military faculty to keep our academic progress going forward. And thanks to our dean and their team, they are, you know, quickly adjusting, but they are making the changes they need to ensure that we continue to offer the majors that we promised through the Class of '26 and continue to offer the courses as we move forward. For the fall semester, in addition to the three minors we've added, we've also added four additional classes, and there are 10 classes of the 753 in our course of instruction, there are 10 that we will not offer in the fall semester, but we will continue to still move forward.   Naviere Walkewicz Yes, sir, thank you for that. You talked about backfills. Can you talk about some of the most important competencies for those instructors, as they were backfilling these positions right?   Gen. Bauernfeind As I testified to the Senate earlier this spring, the two most important things to me inside of our classroom is: One is subject matter expertise, and we value the subject matter expertise brought to us by our professors, associate professors, our assistant professors, our permanent professors, our senior military faculty, and the depth they provide, initially with a master's degree, but more importantly, those Ph.D.s that were an extreme depth of that subject matter expertise. But also as a military service academy— that operationally relevant experience, how do they apply what they're learning in the classroom into their futures in the Air Force and Space Force, whether that be in labs on operational units and future battlefields, and how they can connect that to the future. And we have many of our civilian faculty are also veterans, who are able to bring that strong connection to bear as it moves forward.   Naviere Walkewicz Yes, sir. Well, you mentioned you were adding a couple a few minors. Have there been any majors that have been removed from the program, and has this affected our accreditation in any way?   Gen. Bauernfeind No, ma'am, no majors have been impacted during this time. Every single year, we go through a curriculum review, and we have a curriculum review committee where we will adjust as we move forward based upon guidance we receive from the Air Force and Space Force, but also what demand signals we're seeing from our cadets. You know what they're signing up for. But that is just an annual aspect to make sure that we have the right instructor core to support the curriculum we need to develop and educate our future leaders what the Air Force and Space Force is expecting. But zero majors have been eliminated from the United States Air Force Academy.   Naviere Walkewicz Thank you, sir for clearing that up.   Gen. Bauernfeind Oh, and accreditation. We're in a good spot with accreditation. We maintain continual conversation with our accrediting bodies, whether it be the Higher Learning Commission or several of the engineering- or STEM-focused accrediting bodies such as ABET, we're still in a good spot. In fact, this year, we just approved our quality initiative, which is a key aspect to sustaining not only our accreditation, but showing that we're continuing to improve ourselves, and that quality initiative will focus strongly on data science, throughout all of our curriculum.   Naviere Walkewicz Yes, sir. I think that's wonderful. I know a lot of graduates were, you know, maybe didn't have all the information, so I think that's wonderful that you just shared that. Something interesting you talked about your brief was some master's, a beta testing for a master's program, working with AFIT. Can you expand a bit more about that? And then do you see the Academy becoming a five-year institution, or we will stay four years, 47 months?   Gen. Bauernfeind Right now, I believe that we will still stay a 47-month program because our academic program is 47 months; our athletic program is 47 months, and most importantly, our leadership development and military program is 47 months. For the AFIT program, the vision is — these amazing young Americans come in with so much academic credit. Many of them now are part of the Martinson Scholar Program. And thanks to Mr. Martinson's great support, we have a program that can focus on them going even further. What we can offer them now, the majority are taking multiple majors and multiple minors. What if, in the future, you didn't want to do multiple majors or minors, but you want to go and start on your master's degree, which many other institutes of higher learning are offering in a parallel aspect? And so in conversation with Gen. Tullos, how can we start allowing cadets as early as their junior year start taking master's programs and achieve what would be required? Initial assessment is we will have some that can probably achieve it in 47 months, but probably the greater group will need to stay the Academy for maybe six or 12 more months as a second lieutenant to finish up their AFIT courseware. So they would stop their 47-month USAFA program, but continue with their master's program in the classroom in Fairchild and finish out their master's here. Is the vision— and we're working through this. I want to be very clear that this is beta. We have a lot to learn in this. And from my perspective, as I work with the Air Force to get greater support for this, this is going to be a strong cost saver for the Air Force. When our Air Force officers go to get master's degree, as a general rule, they are out of their operational career field for two years as they go to execute their 18-month AFIT program, plus two associated PCSs. Now we show not only a time saving, but a cost savings. And now these second lieutenants are entering, a portion of them, are entering their air force or Space Force with a master's degree. And it is not uncommon for many of our second lieutenants right now to even start their initial training, depending on what training is available until the spring of the next year after they graduate. So I see a strong promise, but we've got a lot of work to do to make it a reality.   Naviere Walkewicz Yes, sir. Well, that's creative and innovative thinking right there. I think that we're very excited to hear more about that, especially as the beta testing moves forward. Sir, maybe we can move into the warfighting realm. Graduates have been very interested in the renewed focus on warfighting that you've taken over the past year. What recent programs or military training taking place at USAFA right now are really supporting this development of the warfighter. Ready to lead on Day 1?   Gen. Bauernfeind So I believe we've always had a strong foundation of warfighting training, whether it be our airmanship programs, our powered flight programs, our jump programs, our special warfare programs and basic cadet training and cadet survival. But we're building upon that, and we're adding to those as great examples. As discussed earlier, if we can fight for the ammunition, we will have every single cadet qualify on both weapons every single year. The Class of '29 for the M18, the pistol, they qualified at a rate at about 65%. For the M4, the long gun, at a rate of 93%. I'm very proud of those numbers, because many of those young men and women— that was the first time they touched a weapon in their lives. And now, if they do it three more times before they graduate, those qualification rates are going to skyrocket, and they're going to have the confidence, when they deploy into harm's way, of their weapons. Additionally, thanks to the great work by the Cadet Wing, we have received 4,000 sets of chemical gear. And so not only in basic training, are they learning how to establish a forward operating base, defend it, but we're going past the days of where we walked into a tent, took our mask off and then dealt with the wonderful fluids that came out of our bodies. But now, going forward, to how are you going to conduct ATSO operations, or the ability to survive and operate in deployed locations with chemical gear on? And we're very proud to partake in some of that training with the basic cadets, and they are really taking to understanding what is required. And then the final aspect is, as discussed, the cadet warfighter instructor course, is acknowledging that to be really good at those items, we need some subject matter expertise. But the subject matter expertise required to lead, train and certify 4,000 cadets every year, we have to rely on cadet leaders, and as discussed, they're in the field as we speak in the inaugural cadet warfighter instructor course. And I look forward to seeing the feedback of how they will come back and do the squadrons. And tying that back to the cadets wanting more ownership of their training — the intent is 12 cadets inside of each cadet squadron that will now take on the responsibility through the academic year of that warfighter training that we will assess in the fall CULEX, and the ultimate assessment in the spring CULEX.   Naviere Walkewicz Sir, it really shows how you're building that expertise within the squadron to support the squadron commander so they really are taking care of their people. I think that's outstanding.   Gen. Bauernfeind And very excited about it.  And I just want to say thank you again, because it was due to the generosity of the Foundation that got us the seed to start the automation, with 29 Group 2, the smaller UAVs, as we see automation and all monitor warfighting, unleashing the cadets on how they're going to use those UAVs to defend their forward operating bases, to understand what's across the ridgeline as they move forward. And very excited to see where the cadets will take us in this, because I'm sure they're gonna be far more innovative than my generation.   Naviere Walkewicz Our generation, sir, yes, sir. Well, you talked about the four-class system and I think that was really relevant for our graduates to hear. How are cadets feeling motivated through this process? And have you seen them evolve over the past year since you started implementing that?   Gen. Bauernfeind I think the first aspect was— it took them time to truly understand what we were laying out as it went forward. And every year we do this, we will get a little more advanced at the end of the day. I think our four-degrees understood it. That was good. It was that they understood what it meant to be a teammate. What it meant to be a teammate, follower, and that was an easier aspect to develop them through. The team leaders at the senior NCO level for the two-degrees and the firsties as unit leaders, they started understanding that. The biggest challenge we saw was with the three-degrees. What does it mean to be a frontline, engaged supervisor? And we have to troop lead them through, “This is what it means to be a frontline, engaged supervisor.” That they are your subordinate. But to take best care of your people, you should know where they're from. You should know about their parents. You should know their dog's name. You should know where their birthday is. You should know when their next chemistry test is, when their next PT test is. And while you may not be able to tutor them on chemistry, you can gather and motivate them for, “Hey, if the PT test is three weeks out, let's go run together. Let's go get on the pull up bar together. Let's, you know, be engaged.” And the more you know your teammates, what I offer to you, whether it be in morning formation, noon meal formation, at the tables at Mitchell Hall, in the halls of your squadron, inside of 30 seconds you're gonna see your teammates, your subordinate, and you're gonna know if they're gonna have a good day or bad day, because you're close enough to know, just quickly, OK, they're gonna have a great day or something's going on. “Let's go take a walk. Let's figure out what's driving you down. And how can I, as a frontline engaged supervisor, start taking barriers out of your way?”   Naviere Walkewicz I mean, I can only imagine that giving them more pride, even now that they understand, “This is how I can be a frontline supervisor,” when you give us very specific examples. Well, if we might shift gears a little bit to admissions and graduation. Since we just had a class join us, and we had a class recently graduate, maybe you can tell us how the Class of '29 how they're faring so far.   Gen. Bauernfeind The Class of '29 are doing great. I am impressed by their professionalism. I'm impressed by their energy. And as you saw, as we just did the recent march back, they were loud and proud. That was really good as it went forward. And for the Class of '29, I'm proud to report that they are faring very well. Just so everybody knows, we had over 9,000 completed applications. We offered 1,411 offers of admission, and 1,112 took the oath on I-Day as it moved forward. We had cadets from every single state and territories of Guam and Puerto Rico, as well as 12 international cadets that joined us. Of those, 117 from Prep School came up the Hill. And then 76 are, you know, part of a prior Long Blue Line as it's coming forward as it goes. Of the Class of '29, 55% were in the top 10% of their class, and 96 were all invited on varsity sports. Right now we are, as coming out of basic training, of 1,095 and during that time, they're still going strong. We did have some teammates that didn't have a full appreciation of what military life was, or may not have been as impassioned about the Academy as their parents, and so we've parted ways with a few small numbers. But during basic training, I can proudly say— we talked about the qualifications on the weapons, but also say they took their very first PFT test, and looking back over the last five years, they, on average, scored 15 points higher than the last five years. And that's a testament to two teams, I would offer to you, well, not only the cadets themselves, who had to do it, but all of our admissions team that's out there saying, “Hey, congratulations, you've been admitted. Start preparing now.” But also our athletic director, athletic department team that was out there giving them good, focused training to prepare them for those physical fitness tests. And they just took PFT No. 2 a couple days ago, and we're accessing the data but all indications are it's trending up.   Naviere Walkewicz No, yes, sir. Those are outstanding numbers. As a country, we're seeing admission rates and the challenge of getting the best of the best into the door, the fact that we had such wonderful numbers coming in, and we're attriting very low, I think it's something we should be proud of.   Gen. Bauernfeind I'm very proud of it, but acknowledge it's a tough— it's a knife fight to get the best of the brightest, and so thanks to Air Education and Training Command and Accessions Command, we are going to try a new marketing contract this year to further make sure that the amazing young Americans throughout all four corners truly understand the opportunity in front of them with the Air Force Academy, and make sure they're aware of it. So I'm excited to see how that marketing campaign goes to even up our numbers, even a little bit more.   Naviere Walkewicz Awesome. Yes, sir. Well, sir, in the realm of athletics, last year, you shared an emphasis for cadet support and participation at more of our athletic events. What have you seen come from that? And what can you share about athletics, intramurals most currently?   Gen. Bauernfeind It's one of our three mission sets: athletics. And it's not just for our IC athletes. I jokingly tell some of the teammates to say, “Tell me about a cadets life.” It's like, well, they have three full time jobs, a military job, an academic job and an athletic job, and they really get a bachelor of science in time management. And that's as we go forward. But I've asked the athletic department, you know, during COVID, our intramural program atrophied, and now we have to see, how can we really enhance our intramurals as it goes forward. But I'm especially also proud of our intercollegiate athletes, 30 intercollegiate programs. When we talk about the blood, sweat, tears, the hard work that our IC athletes representing 25% of the Cadet Wing — they are really jumping in hard. And my expectations as the superintendent is all 30 of those programs earn home field advantage. And so we've recently published an operation order to the team as we look into the fall sports. And the basic synthesis of it is, protect this house. We will come strong to all home events, and we're working through that aspect. And so as a whole, not only will we figure out how to be strong at all of our home events, whether it be, you know, this fall with women's soccer, men's soccer, cross country, water polo, volleyball and, importantly, football. And proud to report here at our AOG that the entire Cadet Wing will be marching onto the football field and protecting this house and our amazing stadium at home games.   Naviere Walkewicz Yes, sir, thank you for that. That's fantastic. Sir, you know, you can't come out of this Air Force Academy, this 18,000 acres of amazing Academy, without seeing some of the changes, whether it's facilities or capabilities. You know, of course, there are two questions we hear often about the chapel in the box. When will the chapel be done? And then also, you know, what about the visitor center? When can we actually get into it?   Gen. Bauernfeind No, those are two great questions, Naviere. First of all, I think that the box has become so routine there that we received a formal request from cadet. So how can we have a — no kidding — drive in movie theater screen? And the request came in at $300,000 so we thought the prudent action was, let's get the chapel done so we can take the box down instead of putting up a new theater. But right now, for our chapel, again, it is an amazing piece of architecture, and to maintain the historical relevance and the hard work that went behind it, it's going to take time. Right now, we're on schedule for 2028 and we are focused on making sure all the involved teams take every single day out and we can find out as soon as possible when we have any sort of deviation, so we can swarm it. And so as such, we hold monthly meetings with IMSC — the Installation Management Sustainment Command — Air Force Civil Engineering Command, the Corps of Engineers, to go through all of our military construction projects so that if something comes up, we are aware of it within days of the issue, and we swarm it together instead of letting issues boil for a long period of time. And so excited to get the chapel back open as such a spiritual icon of the United States Air Force Academy. And spirituality is so important to the holistic leader's readiness— not just physical, mental, social, family, but also spiritual. And I think it will be important for that development. And then to the visitor center. We're on track to open up in May of '26 before the graduation, and excited to finally open that visitor center and share with a much wider audience what all of our alumni and we know of the amazing story behind the Air Force Academy, all the amazing exemplars who have come from our Academy. And I will share with you, I'm excited to get a whole ton of young Americans inside the visitor center so they can start getting excited about being part of the Class of 2032, 2038 and beyond.   Naviere Walkewicz Yes, sir. Well, they say things are worth the wait, good things are worth the wait, and I think the interactive displays that are gonna come with this are really gonna help people understand truly what our cadets go through.     Gen. Bauernfeind Absolutely. And thank you again to the AOG and Foundation. As money got tight, the Foundation came forward and we now have that beautiful glider, you know, in position that shows what all of our cadets are working through.   Naviere Walkewicz Yes, sir. Well, our sole existence is to support the Academy, serve our grads and prserve the heritage. Well, sir, I'm cognizant of your time. We're so grateful you're here today. Mind if I ask you one final question?   Gen. Bauernfeind Please do.   Naviere Walkewicz What's on your mind that you want to leave with our graduates to be thinking about when you think about our Academy and your vision and mission. What can you leave us with?   Gen. Bauernfeind I just want to thank the Long Blue Line. We are 55,000-plus strong. There have been so many of our alumni, every single one of us that have gone through this journey. And we're proud of this institution. And I just say, continue to support this amazing institution. Spread the good word of what our Air Force Academy is, because we want amazing young women, amazing young men that are in your communities, in your churches, at your work centers, to say, “Hey, have you heard about the Air Force Academy? That's the place for you, because our nation deserves the best.” And just a final thanks to the alumni, and as a superintendent, I'm proud to be in this position with my amazing teammates. And any alumni that wants to ask me, “What's the rest of the story?” I am always available. Please hit me up in the hallways, on the Terrazzo, on the field, and I look forward to your conversations.   Naviere Walkewicz This has been a special edition of the Air Force Gradcast. On behalf of the Long Blue Line Podcast Network and the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation, thank you for joining us. It's been a privilege to hear directly from Lt. Gen. Bauernfeind and to share updates and perspectives relevant to graduates across our Academy community. Thank you for your continued connection, commitment and support of our United States Air Force Academy. I'm Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz, Class of '99. Until next time.       The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation  

Dr. Jack Cush reviews the news, journal reports, FDA approvals, drug safety, etc.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Indianapolis Police Chief Chris Bailey released a statement in response to a hate group that marched in downtown Indianapolis over the weekend. Butler University will launch its own engineering program in 2026 — ending years of relying on a partner school. A Hamilton County resident tested positive for West Nile virus. A Hamilton County drug court recently celebrated the graduation of six participants. People with disabilities could face significant cuts to therapy services if Indiana's proposed changes to Medicaid waivers are approved. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Episode 4708: Trump Heads To Alaska For Putin Summit; Importing The Destruction Of America's Graduates

===== MDJ Script/ Top Stories for August 8th Publish Date:  August 8th    Commercial: From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.    Today is Friday, August 8th and Happy Birthday to Roger Federer I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal Charges dropped against man accused in Cobb Walmart kidnapping case Cobb hosts annual night of unity between residents and public safety officials Traffic stop in Austell leads to meth trafficking charges Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on peaches All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!  BREAK: Ingles Markets 10 STORY 1: Charges dropped against man accused in Cobb Walmart kidnapping case After months of stress, accusations, and uncertainty, Mahendra Patel is finally free. On Wednesday, prosecutors dropped all charges against the Cobb County man, who had been accused of attempting to kidnap a toddler at a north Cobb Walmart back in March. Patel, who spent 45 days in jail and lost 17 pounds surviving on bread and peanut butter, called the ordeal “a punishment in itself.” His mugshot? Still everywhere. His reputation? Shattered. But now, at least, he can breathe. Surveillance footage, which Patel’s attorney Ashleigh Merchant said was key to clearing his name, showed Patel briefly interacting with the child’s mother, Caroline Miller, while searching for Tylenol. What prosecutors initially called an attempted kidnapping was, in Patel’s words, “a misunderstanding blown out of proportion.” A Change.org petition supporting Patel gathered over 92,000 signatures, and even inmates who once threatened him apologized after reading about his case. STORY 2: Cobb hosts annual night of unity between residents and public safety officials Badges, block parties, and a whole lot of community spirit filled Jim Miller Park for Cobb County’s National Night Out. Since 1984, this nationwide event has been all about building bridges between public safety officers and the people they serve. And on Tuesday night? It was all smiles, dunk tanks, and even axe throwing. Families wandered through booths from the Cobb Sheriff’s Office, Fire Department, 911 dispatchers, and more. Kids laughed, parents asked questions, and stuffed K-9 toys were sold to support the real-life furry officers. For Zanetia Henry, the night was personal. After losing her son Dre to gun violence in 2019, she’s dedicated herself to uniting communities through her nonprofit, Operation Recovery. “Unity takes everyone,” she said, presenting awards to officers who’ve gone above and beyond. Cobb Police Capt. Jason Best, reflecting on his 28 years of service, said it best: “We usually see people at their worst. Tonight, we get to just talk—no tickets, no arrests. Just people connecting.” STORY 3: Traffic stop in Austell leads to meth trafficking charges  Jack Randall Roberts, 68, and Justin Daniell Roberts, 30, both from Gay, Georgia, were arrested on July 31 after police allegedly found them with about a kilogram of methamphetamine. It all went down around 4 p.m. at the intersection of Garrett Road and C.H. James Parkway in Austell. Jack, driving a 2008 Ford Focus, reportedly stopped too far past the stop line—an innocent enough mistake, right? Except during the traffic stop, officers discovered the drugs, according to the warrant. Both men were booked into the Cobb County jail that evening. No bond. No release. Just a whole lot of trouble. We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info.  We’ll be right back. Break: COBB INT. FESITVAL STORY 4: Expect lane closures as Atlanta Gas Light begins major pipeline work Atlanta Gas Light is gearing up to kick off the Wade Green Road Phase II Pressure Improvement Project this month—a big deal for Cobb and Cherokee counties. The plan? Lay down 5.5 miles of new natural gas pipeline. Construction crews will be working near Moon Station Road, Baker Road, Woodstock Road, and Highway 92, Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Heads up: expect lane closures and some traffic headaches through late 2025, with cleanup stretching into spring 2026. The city says the project will boost system reliability during high demand and create jobs. Got questions? Check out atlantagaslight.com or email wadegreen@southernco.com. STORY 5: Community Colleges of Appalachia sign transfer agreement with WGU Leaders from Community Colleges of Appalachia (CCA) and Western Governors University (WGU) just inked a deal that could be a game-changer for Appalachian students. The agreement lets residents earn WGU’s accredited online degrees and certificates without leaving their hometowns—no uprooting, no long commutes. CCA, with 85 member colleges from Mississippi to New York (including five in Georgia), is all about serving local communities. This partnership? It’s about making higher education more accessible. Graduates and employees of CCA schools can transfer credits to WGU, skip redundant coursework, and even apply for $3,000 Learn Where You Live Scholarships. WGU’s flexible, competency-based programs—spanning business, tech, healthcare, and education—are designed for busy lives. Tuition? About $4,000 per six-month term, and students can tackle as many courses as they’re ready for. For details, check out ccofapp.org or wgu.edu. And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on peaches We’ll have closing comments after this. Break: Ingles Markets 10 Signoff-   Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Produced by the BG Podcast Network Show Sponsors: www.ingles-markets.com #NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we are taking with a newly graduated med student who made it through school debt free. She worked four different jobs and ended up joining the National Guard to help cover costs. She worked hard to save up enough to pay cash for her first year of school before joining the military to cover the last 3 years. After the interview we are talking about the pennies issue with the backdoor Roth IRA. This podcast is sponsored by Bob Bhayani at Protuity. He is an independent provider of disability insurance planning solutions to the medical community in every state and a long-time white coat investor sponsor. He specializes in working with residents and fellows early in their careers to set up sound financial and insurance strategies. If you need to review your disability insurance coverage or to get this critical insurance in place, contact Bob at https://whitecoatinvestor.com/protuity today, by email info@protuity.com or by calling (973) 771-9100. The White Coat Investor has been helping doctors, dentists, and other high-income professionals with their money since 2011. Our free personal finance resource covers an array of topics including how to use your retirement accounts, getting a doctor mortgage loan, how to manage your student loans, buying physician disability and malpractice insurance, asset allocation & asset location, how to invest in real estate, and so much more. We will help you learn how to manage your finances like a pro so you can stop worrying about money and start living your best life. If you're a high-income professional and ready to get a "fair shake" on Wall Street, The White Coat Investor is for you! Have you achieved a Milestone? You can be on the Milestones to Millionaire Podcast too! Apply here: https://whitecoatinvestor.com/milestones  Find 1000's of written articles on the blog: https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com  Our YouTube channel if you prefer watching videos to learn: https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com/youtube  Student Loan Advice for all your student loan needs: https://studentloanadvice.com  Join the community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewhitecoatinvestor  Join the community on Twitter: https://twitter.com/WCInvestor  Join the community on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewhitecoatinvestor  Join the community on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/whitecoatinvestor  Learn faster with our Online Courses: https://whitecoatinvestor.teachable.com  Sign up for our Newsletter here: https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com/free-monthly-newsletter 

PREVIEW: JOBLESS GRADUATES: Colleague Brandon Weichert comments on the reports of young male grads jobless while female grads are hired. More to come. 1900

We are so freaking proud! In this episode, Rhett & Link talk about college graduations – from Rhett's nephews to Link's daughter Lily. Plus, Link & Lily's terribly organized move out day that follows graduation, including some lessons learned along the way. Leave us a voicemail at 1-888-EARPOD-1 to be featured on the show! Signing up for Chime takes 2 minutes! Go to https://www.chime.com/ear Get a $75 job credit at https://indeed.com/ears To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices