Podcasts about leading voices

In this recent interview on The Ash Said It Show, rising R&B artist Bria Cheri offered a deep dive into the creative process and powerful message behind her latest single, "Boy Toy." The conversation captivated listeners as Bria explained the song's bold title and its relevance to contemporary relationships. Challenging Norms with a Provocative Title Bria Cheri revealed that the title "Boy Toy" was a deliberate choice, designed to be provocative and challenge traditional gender roles within relationships. She shared that the song's narrative is a powerful blend of personal experience and broader observations, serving as an anthem for reclaiming power and agency. The song redefines the "boy toy" label, transforming it from a term of subservience into a symbol of strength and self-possession. Musicality and Emotional Authenticity Beyond the lyrics, Bria discussed the meticulous crafting of the song's musicality. She highlighted how the instrumentation was carefully chosen to evoke a sense of confidence and empowerment, complementing the single's powerful message. The interview also touched on the vulnerability required to write such authentic lyrics, a challenge Bria embraced to ensure her storytelling remained raw and genuine. What's Next for Bria Cheri Concluding the interview, Bria Cheri hinted that "Boy Toy" is just a glimpse of a larger, upcoming project. Fans can anticipate more music that delves into complex relationship themes, all delivered with her signature blend of soulful R&B and raw emotional honesty. This interview provides a look into Bria Cheri's artistry, cementing her as an artist who uses her music to spark important conversations about modern love, empowerment, and authenticity. Web: https://www.briacheri.com/ Bio: Bria Cheri is a graduate from Long Island University Post with a degree in Broadcast Journalism/Public Relations. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She is a singer-songwriter, aspiring actress, dancer, and pianist from Jamaica Queens, NY, who currently resides in Long Island, NY. Bria has spent over a decade perfecting her craft in music professionally for over ten years.   As time progressed, she explored acting in a few independent films as an extra and managed/hosted her own radio show FLAVA at Long Island University. After graduation, Bria Cheri volunteered her time online with several radio stations such as KFSM radio, FreedomKRadio, WRDR radio, Rebel 107.9 and Radiomga.com to support independent artists. She wanted to help promote their music on the networks and interview them to inform a broader audience about their talent. Music has always been a part of Bria Cheri's heart & soul. Her musical influences range from rock, jazz, house music and hip-hop. So, no matter what genre of music the artist had, she always welcomed them to her show in addition to recommending them to the affiliated stations. Today, Bria has been very tenacious with her career.  When she is not performing, she will either write music on her own based on some elements of her experiences, observations, or collaborate with songwriters. Very often she will play the keyboard to create a beat to stimulate her song writing ideas. When she needs additional creative ideas, Bria Cheri notifies her mentor Donnie Klang or songwriter Kyle Davidson. Donnie Klang who is a singer, songwriter, and producer was formerly signed to Bad Boy Records after winning MTV's reality show, “Making the Band 4.” Donnie owns and operates his recording studio with business partner Matthew LaPorter, known as The Loft Sound Studio, LLC in Syosset, NY. He has produced Bria's debut EP titled, "Before the Music" as well as her second EP, “Silent Siren Vol 1, inclusive of other projects. Bria Cheri released her third EP, titled “Phoenix” in 2023, which was produced by Raphael Gibbs from Become Elite Media, LLC. The project encapsulates her growth as an artist and as a woman. This project inspired her to release another video on YouTube, “Don't Worry.' As of April 2023, Bria Cheri's musical journey enabled her the honor of meeting and opening for the legendary Styles P from the Hip-Hop group, The Lox, at Bullet Proof Studios in New Jersey. In 2024, Bria Cheri performed at the “So Fly So Fabulous Fashion Show” in New York City and was interviewed by Sway at SiriusXM on the Sway In The Morning radio show. The So Fly So Fabulous event was the first performance at a fashion show, but the energy from the audience, featuring artists and the DJ made it worthwhile in combination with the phenomenal and unique fashion designs by Sara Louis. Bria Cheri's interview with Sway expressed who she is as an artist and was very appreciative for the opportunity to showcase her talent to a national audience. The interview can be found on YouTube entitled, “Sway's Universe” at https://youtu.be/rKVkfZgWgVw. Currently, a new song “Boy Toy” produced by Donnie Klang with songwriting collaborator Kyle Davidson will be released on Tuesday, September 9, 2025. The song delves into playful roles in dating. It is an upbeat song you can dance to. More music can be found at https://briacheri.bandcamp.com. Ash Brown: Your Ultimate Guide to Inspiration, Empowerment, and Action Are you searching for a dynamic motivational speaker, an authentic podcaster, or an influential media personality who can ignite your passion for personal growth? Look no further than Ash Brown. This American multi-talented powerhouse is a captivating event host, an insightful blogger, and a dedicated advocate for helping people unlock their full potential. With her infectious optimism and genuine desire to empower others, Ash Brown has become a leading voice in the personal development and motivation space. Discover the World of Ash Brown: AshSaidit.com & The Ash Said It Show AshSaidit.com: A vibrant lifestyle blog and event platform, AshSaidit.com is your gateway to Ash's world. Here you'll find exclusive event invitations, honest product reviews, and a wealth of engaging content designed to inform and inspire. It's the perfect online destination to stay connected and get your daily dose of Ash's unique personality and insights. The Ash Said It Show: With over 2,100 episodes and over half a million global listens, "The Ash Said It Show" is a powerful and popular podcast. Ash engages in meaningful conversations with inspiring guests, diving into topics that truly matter. Listeners gain valuable life lessons, encouragement, and practical advice to help them navigate their own journeys. Why Ash Brown is a Leading Voice in Personal Development What truly distinguishes Ash Brown is her authentic and relatable approach to personal growth. She builds a genuine connection with her audience, offering practical advice and encouragement that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend. Ash doesn't shy away from life's challenges; instead, she provides the tools to tackle them head-on with confidence. Authentic Optimism: Ash's positive energy is contagious, empowering her audience to embrace new challenges with a more capable and hopeful mindset. Relatable Advice: Ash offers unfiltered, real-world guidance that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Her understanding that life can be tough makes her advice both honest and deeply encouraging. Actionable Strategies: Beyond just feeling good, Ash provides practical tips and strategies designed to help you turn your aspirations into tangible results. For a consistent source of inspiration, genuine encouragement, and actionable advice, Ash Brown is your ultimate resource. Her incredible positivity and unwavering dedication to helping others make her the ideal guide for maximizing your life's potential. Connect with Ash Brown: Goli Gummy Discounts: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 Luxury Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.

In a delightful tribute to Snoopy's 75th anniversary this October, inventor and entrepreneur Wayne Fromm, renowned for inventing the original selfie stick and Disney's Beauty and the Beast Magic Talking Mirror, has launched his latest innovation: the Snoopy Magic Mixer. This hands-free, no-mess mixer combines beloved nostalgic charm with modern convenience, perfect for families and Snoopy fans of all ages. A Hands-Free Solution for Everyday Mixing The Snoopy Magic Mixer revolutionizes how you mix beverages and dressings, making it simple to prepare everything from chocolate milk and fruit smoothies to matcha and salad dressings. Unlike traditional shakers or blenders, the Snoopy Magic Mixer works effortlessly without shaking or stirring. Simply secure the iconic Snoopy lid, and the internal swirl disk creates a perfect, lump-free blend. "I've been a lifelong Snoopy lover, and creating the Snoopy Magic Mixer is my tribute to this iconic character who has brought joy to generations,” said Wayne Fromm. “As an inventor, I'm passionate about blending creativity with practicality. This product is a fun way to celebrate Snoopy's milestone birthday while encouraging healthy habits — for kids and grown-ups alike.” Safe, Simple, and Versatile for All Ages Designed with safety and convenience in mind, the Snoopy Magic Mixer is ideal for families. It features: No buttons or sharp blades: Safe for children ages three and up. Easy cleanup: No complex parts to disassemble, saving parents time and effort. BPA-free materials: Ensures a safe and healthy experience. Versatile use: Perfect for mixing powdered vitamins and supplements into drinks for picky eaters, or for adults creating quick on-the-go beverages. The Must-Have Gift for Snoopy's 75th Birthday With Snoopy's 75th birthday celebration approaching this October, the Snoopy Magic Mixer is positioned to be a top pick in gift guides, holiday roundups, and wellness lists. Its unique blend of nostalgic appeal and practical use makes it perfect for family-friendly content, “TikTok made me buy it” moments, and gifting to any Peanuts enthusiast. About Wayne Fromm: Wayne Fromm is a serial inventor and entrepreneur known for creating globally recognized products, including the selfie stick and the Disney Magic Talking Mirror. His inventions are celebrated for their blend of clever design and practical functionality. Web: https://www.amazon.com/Swirly-... Ash Brown: Your Ultimate Guide to Inspiration, Empowerment, and Action Are you searching for a dynamic motivational speaker, an authentic podcaster, or an influential media personality who can ignite your passion for personal growth? Look no further than Ash Brown. This American multi-talented powerhouse is a captivating event host, an insightful blogger, and a dedicated advocate for helping people unlock their full potential. With her infectious optimism and genuine desire to empower others, Ash Brown has become a leading voice in the personal development and motivation space. Discover the World of Ash Brown: AshSaidit.com & The Ash Said It Show AshSaidit.com: A vibrant lifestyle blog and event platform, AshSaidit.com is your gateway to Ash's world. Here you'll find exclusive event invitations, honest product reviews, and a wealth of engaging content designed to inform and inspire. It's the perfect online destination to stay connected and get your daily dose of Ash's unique personality and insights. The Ash Said It Show: With over 2,100 episodes and over half a million global listens, "The Ash Said It Show" is a powerful and popular podcast. Ash engages in meaningful conversations with inspiring guests, diving into topics that truly matter. Listeners gain valuable life lessons, encouragement, and practical advice to help them navigate their own journeys. Why Ash Brown is a Leading Voice in Personal Development What truly distinguishes Ash Brown is her authentic and relatable approach to personal growth. She builds a genuine connection with her audience, offering practical advice and encouragement that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend. Ash doesn't shy away from life's challenges; instead, she provides the tools to tackle them head-on with confidence. Authentic Optimism: Ash's positive energy is contagious, empowering her audience to embrace new challenges with a more capable and hopeful mindset. Relatable Advice: Ash offers unfiltered, real-world guidance that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Her understanding that life can be tough makes her advice both honest and deeply encouraging. Actionable Strategies: Beyond just feeling good, Ash provides practical tips and strategies designed to help you turn your aspirations into tangible results. For a consistent source of inspiration, genuine encouragement, and actionable advice, Ash Brown is your ultimate resource. Her incredible positivity and unwavering dedication to helping others make her the ideal guide for maximizing your life's potential. Connect with Ash Brown: Goli Gummy Discounts: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 Luxury Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.

JapanFest is the premier celebration of Japanese culture in the Southeast! Immerse yourself in a vibrant, two-day cultural journey where ancient tradition meets modern innovation. From the mesmerizing rhythms of taiko drumming to the delicate artistry of a traditional tea ceremony, this festival offers a unique escape to the Land of the Rising Sun. This year, JapanFest Atlanta is returning to the Gas South Convention Center on September 20th and 21st, 2025. Experience the best of Japanese entertainment with special guest performers, martial arts demonstrations, and a wide array of authentic Japanese food vendors and a beer garden. Join thousands of others in celebrating the rich heritage of Japan right here in Georgia. JapanFest 2025 is the perfect family-friendly event to discover new traditions, indulge in delicious cuisine, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you're a long-time enthusiast of Japanese culture or a curious newcomer, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Web: https://www.japanfest.org/ ABOUT Now in its 38th year, JapanFest welcomes around 23,000-25,000 visitors each year. Organized by the Japan Chamber of Commerce and the Japan-America Society of Georgia, and supported by the Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta, the festival fosters greater cultural understanding between the Japanese community and Americans in the Southeast. Our Story ​ Co-organized by JapanFest, Inc., The Japan-America Society of Georgia, The Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Georgia, and supported by The Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta. ​ MISSION ​ The mission of JapanFest is to improve understanding and appreciation of linkages between Japanese and Americans residing in the Southeastern United States through an annual salute to Japanese culture and friendship entitled JapanFest. This celebration will promote multicultural education, encourage social harmony, and ensure the cultural integrity of JapanFest by providing an appropriate mix of authentic contemporary and traditional programs on Japanese art and culture. Activities include a wide variety of performing arts, demonstrations, hands-on workshops, and exhibitions. These grassroots efforts are coordinated by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Georgia and The Japan-America Society of Georgia and implemented by a host of community volunteers. JapanFest is committed to organizing a self-sustaining event, supported in part by non-Japanese Chamber of Commerce and non-Japan-America Society of Georgia members, and provides meaningful support to educational endeavors in Georgia. ​ HISTORY ​ ​What is now referred to as "JapanFest" began in 1981 as Japan Week, a biannual series of Japan-related cultural events organized by the Consulate-General of Japan that took place around the city of Atlanta. In 1986, the name was changed to JapanFest, and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Georgia, the Japan America Society of Georgia, and the Consulate General of Japan organized their own events under the title of JapanFest. In 1993, the first Picnic and Sports Day was held at Mercer University. In 1995, Picnic and Sports Day became Japan Day at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. In 1996, JapanFest moved to Stone Mountain Park and became an annual event. In 1997, JapanFest, Inc. was incorporated as a non-profit corporation. Ash Brown: Your Ultimate Guide to Inspiration, Empowerment, and Action Are you searching for a dynamic motivational speaker, an authentic podcaster, or an influential media personality who can ignite your passion for personal growth? Look no further than Ash Brown. This American multi-talented powerhouse is a captivating event host, an insightful blogger, and a dedicated advocate for helping people unlock their full potential. With her infectious optimism and genuine desire to empower others, Ash Brown has become a leading voice in the personal development and motivation space. Discover the World of Ash Brown: AshSaidit.com & The Ash Said It Show AshSaidit.com: A vibrant lifestyle blog and event platform, AshSaidit.com is your gateway to Ash's world. Here you'll find exclusive event invitations, honest product reviews, and a wealth of engaging content designed to inform and inspire. It's the perfect online destination to stay connected and get your daily dose of Ash's unique personality and insights. The Ash Said It Show: With over 2,100 episodes and over half a million global listens, "The Ash Said It Show" is a powerful and popular podcast. Ash engages in meaningful conversations with inspiring guests, diving into topics that truly matter. Listeners gain valuable life lessons, encouragement, and practical advice to help them navigate their own journeys. Why Ash Brown is a Leading Voice in Personal Development What truly distinguishes Ash Brown is her authentic and relatable approach to personal growth. She builds a genuine connection with her audience, offering practical advice and encouragement that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend. Ash doesn't shy away from life's challenges; instead, she provides the tools to tackle them head-on with confidence. Authentic Optimism: Ash's positive energy is contagious, empowering her audience to embrace new challenges with a more capable and hopeful mindset. Relatable Advice: Ash offers unfiltered, real-world guidance that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Her understanding that life can be tough makes her advice both honest and deeply encouraging. Actionable Strategies: Beyond just feeling good, Ash provides practical tips and strategies designed to help you turn your aspirations into tangible results. For a consistent source of inspiration, genuine encouragement, and actionable advice, Ash Brown is your ultimate resource. Her incredible positivity and unwavering dedication to helping others make her the ideal guide for maximizing your life's potential. Connect with Ash Brown: Goli Gummy Discounts: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 Luxury Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.

Ahsima House is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping domestic violence survivors and their pets in Georgia. Ahimsa House offers free services to anyone in Georgia, regardless of their financial situation. The Ahimsa House Story Ahimsa House was founded with a central shelter in Atlanta, but in 2007, the organization shifted its approach to better serve a wider range of people. The group launched a direct services program that uses a network of foster homes and boarding facilities throughout Georgia to provide confidential and safe shelter for pets. Since its founding, Ahimsa House has provided over 198,000 nights of safe, confidential shelter for pets in need. In 2023, Ahimsa House assisted 198 people and 365 pets, its most successful year to date. The organization's 24-hour crisis line also received 3,785 calls in 2023. Ahimsa House is primarily funded by individual donations, grants, and corporate sponsorships. The cost to care for one survivor's pets is approximately $2,000, which can increase when multiple, exotic, or neglected animals require extensive care. Direct Services Program Ahimsa House's direct services program is designed to provide comprehensive support for survivors and their pets. The program includes: A 24-hour statewide crisis line. Emergency shelter for all types of animals. Veterinary care, including spay/neuter services, preventive care, and treatment for injuries due to abuse. Forensic veterinary examinations to document animal cruelty for legal proceedings. Pet transportation assistance to help owners and their pets relocate safely. Financial assistance for pet deposits in transitional housing, as well as pet food and supplies. Donations of pet supplies to domestic violence shelters. Assistance with safety planning to include pets. Legal advocacy to help survivors include pets in temporary protective orders. Outreach Services Program In addition to its direct services, Ahimsa House focuses on outreach and education to raise awareness about the link between animal cruelty and domestic violence. The outreach program includes: Training and cross-training for human services and animal protection agencies. Public awareness initiatives through community events and informational materials. Consultation for prosecutors on cases involving co-occurring domestic violence and animal cruelty. A directory of similar programs across the United States. Participation in interdisciplinary conferences and task forces to advocate for the inclusion of animal abuse in domestic violence discussions. Web: https://ahimsahouse.org 24-Hour Crisis Line 404-452-6248 Ash Brown: Your Ultimate Guide to Inspiration, Empowerment, and Action Are you searching for a dynamic motivational speaker, an authentic podcaster, or an influential media personality who can ignite your passion for personal growth? Look no further than Ash Brown. This American multi-talented powerhouse is a captivating event host, an insightful blogger, and a dedicated advocate for helping people unlock their full potential. With her infectious optimism and genuine desire to empower others, Ash Brown has become a leading voice in the personal development and motivation space. Discover the World of Ash Brown: AshSaidit.com & The Ash Said It Show AshSaidit.com: A vibrant lifestyle blog and event platform, AshSaidit.com is your gateway to Ash's world. Here you'll find exclusive event invitations, honest product reviews, and a wealth of engaging content designed to inform and inspire. It's the perfect online destination to stay connected and get your daily dose of Ash's unique personality and insights. The Ash Said It Show: With over 2,100 episodes and over half a million global listens, "The Ash Said It Show" is a powerful and popular podcast. Ash engages in meaningful conversations with inspiring guests, diving into topics that truly matter. Listeners gain valuable life lessons, encouragement, and practical advice to help them navigate their own journeys. Why Ash Brown is a Leading Voice in Personal Development What truly distinguishes Ash Brown is her authentic and relatable approach to personal growth. She builds a genuine connection with her audience, offering practical advice and encouragement that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend. Ash doesn't shy away from life's challenges; instead, she provides the tools to tackle them head-on with confidence. Authentic Optimism: Ash's positive energy is contagious, empowering her audience to embrace new challenges with a more capable and hopeful mindset. Relatable Advice: Ash offers unfiltered, real-world guidance that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Her understanding that life can be tough makes her advice both honest and deeply encouraging. Actionable Strategies: Beyond just feeling good, Ash provides practical tips and strategies designed to help you turn your aspirations into tangible results. For a consistent source of inspiration, genuine encouragement, and actionable advice, Ash Brown is your ultimate resource. Her incredible positivity and unwavering dedication to helping others make her the ideal guide for maximizing your life's potential. Connect with Ash Brown: Goli Gummy Discounts: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 Luxury Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.

In this exclusive interview on The Ash Said It Show, NETHERWORLD Haunted House co-creator Ben Armstrong announced that the iconic Atlanta haunt is gearing up for its most ambitious season yet. This fall, NETHERWORLD celebrates its 29th Season of Screams with two massive, new haunted attractions that promise to be the longest and most over-the-top in its history. This Fall: Face the Powerful MONSTERS ATTACK! Then, Brave a Twisted Double Feature: OBLIVION: RETURN OF THE MANGLER & GRENDEL'S FEAST! A Record-Breaking Season of Scares For its 29th season, NETHERWORLD is pulling out all the stops. Opening Friday, September 19, and running for 35 chilling nights, the 2025 season is designed to be completely immersive. According to co-creator Ben Armstrong, these massive attractions cover a combined walking distance of 10 football fields, offering a true living nightmare for guests.This is a monumental season for fans of the world-famous haunt. The New Attractions: A Deep Dive into Terror MONSTERS ATTACK! will transport guests to a classic monster battle royale. In the cursed town of Whyshburg, savage werewolves, Frankensteinian fiends, and robotic war machines clash with a vast army of reanimated corpses. Guests will witness an onslaught of terror, facing titanic terrors, armored warbots, vampire lords, and undying giants as they try to survive the onslaught. This is the ultimate Halloween experience for fans of epic creature features. Then, the horror continues with a second, terrifying double feature: •OBLIVION: RETURN OF THE MANGLER: The demented surgeon known as the Mangler has discovered a dark dimension called Oblivion and seeks to control all who live. This attraction features gruesome medical madness, the mysterious First Citizen, and a journey through the twisted experiments of the Diabolical Dentist and the Stitcher. •GRENDEL'S FEAST: A bizarre carnival sideshow awaits. Here, guests will face Mr. Grendel, an ancient, flesh-eating ogre disguised as a clown. Be warned—these are not your friendly clowns, and they have something else in mind for dinner.
 Beyond the Haunts: A Full Festival Experience In addition to the haunted attractions, NETHERWORLD's Halloween festival-style Midway offers a full evening of entertainment. Guests can enjoy towering jack-o-lanterns, monster photo ops, two mini escape games, and a variety of food and drinks, including fan favorites like Dr. Octane's Bizarre Beverages and “Blood Bags.” For those who want to continue the adventure, NETHERWORLD also offers five year-round immersive escape rooms and a monster museum. Stay tuned for an official announcement on when tickets go on sale. For more information on this Atlanta haunted houseand to join the “Netherspawn” family, visit www.fearworld.com. Ash Brown: Your Ultimate Guide to Inspiration, Empowerment, and Action Are you searching for a dynamic motivational speaker, an authentic podcaster, or an influential media personality who can ignite your passion for personal growth? Look no further than Ash Brown. This American multi-talented powerhouse is a captivating event host, an insightful blogger, and a dedicated advocate for helping people unlock their full potential. With her infectious optimism and genuine desire to empower others, Ash Brown has become a leading voice in the personal development and motivation space. Discover the World of Ash Brown: AshSaidit.com & The Ash Said It Show AshSaidit.com: A vibrant lifestyle blog and event platform, AshSaidit.com is your gateway to Ash's world. Here you'll find exclusive event invitations, honest product reviews, and a wealth of engaging content designed to inform and inspire. It's the perfect online destination to stay connected and get your daily dose of Ash's unique personality and insights. The Ash Said It Show: With over 2,100 episodes and over half a million global listens, "The Ash Said It Show" is a powerful and popular podcast. Ash engages in meaningful conversations with inspiring guests, diving into topics that truly matter. Listeners gain valuable life lessons, encouragement, and practical advice to help them navigate their own journeys. Why Ash Brown is a Leading Voice in Personal Development What truly distinguishes Ash Brown is her authentic and relatable approach to personal growth. She builds a genuine connection with her audience, offering practical advice and encouragement that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend. Ash doesn't shy away from life's challenges; instead, she provides the tools to tackle them head-on with confidence. Authentic Optimism: Ash's positive energy is contagious, empowering her audience to embrace new challenges with a more capable and hopeful mindset. Relatable Advice: Ash offers unfiltered, real-world guidance that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Her understanding that life can be tough makes her advice both honest and deeply encouraging. Actionable Strategies: Beyond just feeling good, Ash provides practical tips and strategies designed to help you turn your aspirations into tangible results. For a consistent source of inspiration, genuine encouragement, and actionable advice, Ash Brown is your ultimate resource. Her incredible positivity and unwavering dedication to helping others make her the ideal guide for maximizing your life's potential. Connect with Ash Brown: Goli Gummy Discounts: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 Luxury Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.

ANC chairperson Gwede Mantashe has criticised incoherent and populist messaging within the party, saying it confuses supporters. Speaking at the OR Tambo Region's Special Regional General Council in the Eastern Cape, Mantashe urged the ANC to strengthen its ideological and intellectual capacity to remain a leading voice for progressive change. This follows the ANC's decision to take action against MP Malusi Gigaba and suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu for remarks deemed as deliberate "de-campaigning." Gigaba claimed the ANC had "lost its way," while Mchunu warned the party risked collapse. Elvis Presslin spoke to Gift Ngqondi, ANC Eastern Cape Provincial Head of Communications

Atlanta, get ready for an unforgettable two-part celebration! Panda Fest, one of the nation's fastest-growing outdoor Asian food and culture festivals, is making a highly-anticipated return to Atlanta. As the first city to ever host Panda Fest, Atlanta has earned the unique honor of hosting the event twice in one year. The panda-monium is set to take over Atlantic Station from September 5–7, 2025. Early Bird tickets for this one-of-a-kind Atlanta festival go on sale Friday, July 11 at 10 a.m. EST. What to Expect at Panda Fest Atlanta This September, Panda Fest will bring back the vibrant celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander cultures that Atlanta has fallen in love with. Guests can embark on a culinary journey across Asia with more than 80+ food vendorsserving over 300 delicious dishes. You'll find everything from authentic street food to creative fusion bites from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond. Beyond the food, explore a curated marketplace with over 25 vendors offering unique crafts, clothing, and artisan goods. The festival also features a dynamic lineup of live entertainment, including modern K-pop dance routines, traditional lion dances, theatrical performances, and more. And of course, the pandas take center stage, with Instagram-worthy installations like a 15-foot inflatable panda and a panda bounce ring, along with themed games and merchandise. Tickets & Details Dates: * Friday, Sept. 5: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. * Saturday, Sept. 6: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. * Sunday, Sept. 7: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Location: * Atlantic Station, Pinnacle Lot * 221 20th St., Atlanta, GA 30363 Ticket Info: * Early Bird tickets go on sale Friday, July 11, at 10 a.m. EST at www.pandafests.com. * General Admission and VIP tickets are also available. VIP perks include shaded seating, private bars, and exclusive experiences. For more information, visit www.pandafests.com. Follow @pandafestatlanta on Instagram for festival updates and sneak peeks! About Panda Fest: PANDA FEST is one of the biggest outdoor Asian food festivals in the US with experiential activities, tastings, and market fairs that showcases the vibrant food, art and cultural traditions from Asia. Ash Brown: Your Ultimate Guide to Inspiration, Empowerment, and Action Are you searching for a dynamic motivational speaker, an authentic podcaster, or an influential media personality who can ignite your passion for personal growth? Look no further than Ash Brown. This American multi-talented powerhouse is a captivating event host, an insightful blogger, and a dedicated advocate for helping people unlock their full potential. With her infectious optimism and genuine desire to empower others, Ash Brown has become a leading voice in the personal development and motivation space. Discover the World of Ash Brown: AshSaidit.com & The Ash Said It Show AshSaidit.com: A vibrant lifestyle blog and event platform, AshSaidit.com is your gateway to Ash's world. Here you'll find exclusive event invitations, honest product reviews, and a wealth of engaging content designed to inform and inspire. It's the perfect online destination to stay connected and get your daily dose of Ash's unique personality and insights. The Ash Said It Show: With over 2,100 episodes and over half a million global listens, "The Ash Said It Show" is a powerful and popular podcast. Ash engages in meaningful conversations with inspiring guests, diving into topics that truly matter. Listeners gain valuable life lessons, encouragement, and practical advice to help them navigate their own journeys. Why Ash Brown is a Leading Voice in Personal Development What truly distinguishes Ash Brown is her authentic and relatable approach to personal growth. She builds a genuine connection with her audience, offering practical advice and encouragement that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend. Ash doesn't shy away from life's challenges; instead, she provides the tools to tackle them head-on with confidence. Authentic Optimism: Ash's positive energy is contagious, empowering her audience to embrace new challenges with a more capable and hopeful mindset. Relatable Advice: Ash offers unfiltered, real-world guidance that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Her understanding that life can be tough makes her advice both honest and deeply encouraging. Actionable Strategies: Beyond just feeling good, Ash provides practical tips and strategies designed to help you turn your aspirations into tangible results. For a consistent source of inspiration, genuine encouragement, and actionable advice, Ash Brown is your ultimate resource. Her incredible positivity and unwavering dedication to helping others make her the ideal guide for maximizing your life's potential. Connect with Ash Brown: Goli Gummy Discounts: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 Luxury Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.

Dr. Pamela Roshell's Plan for a Healthier Fulton County: Solving Health Deserts & Boosting Community Wellness Dr. Pamela Roshell is leading a comprehensive effort to transform public health in Fulton County, Georgia. Her strategy is a tailored, holistic approach that addresses the unique needs of communities from North to South Fulton. Roshell's mission focuses on tackling "health deserts"—areas with limited healthcare access. Through strategic partnerships, like the one with Morehouse School of Medicine, she is establishing new community clinics. These hubs offer essential services, including primary care and preventative screenings, to create a more equitable healthcare system for underserved residents. Leveraging her background as a former Obama Administration official and Regional Director for HHS, Roshell brings a deep understanding of securing federal funding for innovative, community-based solutions. A top priority is mental and behavioral health. Roshell is fighting the stigma and lack of access to care through new programs and expanded access points. Her work also directly benefits Fulton County's senior population, with initiatives that improve access to care and promote social engagement to combat isolation. Roshell believes in a holistic approach to community well-being, recognizing that public safety and the arts are interconnected with health. This 360-degree view helps her create policies that improve the overall wellness of the county's residents. Follow @fultoninfo Web: https://www.FultonCounty.gov Call: (404) 612-4000 About: Dr. Roshell, one of the highest regarded experts on health services in the south (and an Obama Administration Presidential Appointee!) – she'd love to talk about how Fulton County is improving quality of life for its residents through developing new clinics in “health deserts,” and working to solve critical health issues for individuals and families in the county's 15 municipalities (Fulton County extends from cities like Milton, Alpharetta, Johns Creek at the top to Fairburn, Chatahoochee Hills and more at the base of the long county!). This includes behavioral health and mental health, some very important topics these days! She is a delight! Please let me know the coordinates I should share with her, and I should have at least one other person to send you for the following day too...   Dr. Pamela Roshell serves as Chief Operating Officer for Fulton County Government, where she provides executive leadership and operational oversight across key service areas including Health and Human Services, Economic Development, Public Safety, and Arts and Libraries. In this role, she manages a broad portfolio of countywide initiatives, directs a large and diverse workforce, and stewards a multi-million dollar operating budget that supports critical programs and services for Fulton County residents. She also ensures alignment with essential community partners, including the Fulton County Board of Health and the Department of Family and Children Services.   Since joining Fulton County in 2017, Dr. Roshell has held several senior leadership roles, including Deputy Chief Operating Officer and Director of Senior Services. Her work has focused on advancing innovative strategies to improve service delivery, expand access to care, and strengthen outcomes for vulnerable populations.   Prior to her service in county government, Dr. Roshell was appointed Regional Director for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, where she oversaw federal health programs across the Southeast. She also held executive roles at the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), including serving as State Director for AARP Georgia, where she led advocacy, outreach, and program development for more than one million members.   Dr. Roshell holds a bachelor's degree from Columbia College, a Master of Social Work with a concentration in administration from the University of South Carolina, and a Ph.D. in social policy, planning, and administration from Clark Atlanta University. Ash Brown: Your Ultimate Guide to Inspiration, Empowerment, and Action Are you searching for a dynamic motivational speaker, an authentic podcaster, or an influential media personality who can ignite your passion for personal growth? Look no further than Ash Brown. This American multi-talented powerhouse is a captivating event host, an insightful blogger, and a dedicated advocate for helping people unlock their full potential. With her infectious optimism and genuine desire to empower others, Ash Brown has become a leading voice in the personal development and motivation space. Discover the World of Ash Brown: AshSaidit.com & The Ash Said It Show AshSaidit.com: A vibrant lifestyle blog and event platform, AshSaidit.com is your gateway to Ash's world. Here you'll find exclusive event invitations, honest product reviews, and a wealth of engaging content designed to inform and inspire. It's the perfect online destination to stay connected and get your daily dose of Ash's unique personality and insights. The Ash Said It Show: With over 2,100 episodes and over half a million global listens, "The Ash Said It Show" is a powerful and popular podcast. Ash engages in meaningful conversations with inspiring guests, diving into topics that truly matter. Listeners gain valuable life lessons, encouragement, and practical advice to help them navigate their own journeys. Why Ash Brown is a Leading Voice in Personal Development What truly distinguishes Ash Brown is her authentic and relatable approach to personal growth. She builds a genuine connection with her audience, offering practical advice and encouragement that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend. Ash doesn't shy away from life's challenges; instead, she provides the tools to tackle them head-on with confidence. Authentic Optimism: Ash's positive energy is contagious, empowering her audience to embrace new challenges with a more capable and hopeful mindset. Relatable Advice: Ash offers unfiltered, real-world guidance that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Her understanding that life can be tough makes her advice both honest and deeply encouraging. Actionable Strategies: Beyond just feeling good, Ash provides practical tips and strategies designed to help you turn your aspirations into tangible results. For a consistent source of inspiration, genuine encouragement, and actionable advice, Ash Brown is your ultimate resource. Her incredible positivity and unwavering dedication to helping others make her the ideal guide for maximizing your life's potential. Connect with Ash Brown: Goli Gummy Discounts: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 Luxury Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.

For Melisa Illustrations, the mission is to create a connection through art. This brand's magic lies in its digital prints and illustrations, inspired by the simple, quiet moments we all cherish—like a peaceful morning with a cup of coffee or a soft, nostalgic memory. Each piece is more than just wall art; it's a feeling, a little bit of calm to hang in your space. Melisa's work is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of personality to their home. Whether you're a student making your dorm room feel like a sanctuary, a new homeowner decorating your first cozy corner, or just searching for a thoughtful gift for a friend, this collection offers something special. It's for those who appreciate the small details, the ones who understand that art should make you feel something. With over 70,000 art lovers on Instagram, Melisa Illustrations has become a go-to for unique and gentle home decor. The curated selection of digital art prints makes it easy to find a piece that speaks to you. Discover a world of calming artthat feels both personal and relatable—because the best art reminds you of your own beautiful story. Follow: @melisa.illustrations Web: https://linktr.ee/Melisaillust... Ash Brown: Your Ultimate Guide to Inspiration, Empowerment, and Action Are you searching for a dynamic motivational speaker, an authentic podcaster, or an influential media personality who can ignite your passion for personal growth? Look no further than Ash Brown. This American multi-talented powerhouse is a captivating event host, an insightful blogger, and a dedicated advocate for helping people unlock their full potential. With her infectious optimism and genuine desire to empower others, Ash Brown has become a leading voice in the personal development and motivation space. Discover the World of Ash Brown: AshSaidit.com & The Ash Said It Show AshSaidit.com: A vibrant lifestyle blog and event platform, AshSaidit.com is your gateway to Ash's world. Here you'll find exclusive event invitations, honest product reviews, and a wealth of engaging content designed to inform and inspire. It's the perfect online destination to stay connected and get your daily dose of Ash's unique personality and insights. The Ash Said It Show: With over 2,100 episodes and over half a million global listens, "The Ash Said It Show" is a powerful and popular podcast. Ash engages in meaningful conversations with inspiring guests, diving into topics that truly matter. Listeners gain valuable life lessons, encouragement, and practical advice to help them navigate their own journeys. Why Ash Brown is a Leading Voice in Personal Development What truly distinguishes Ash Brown is her authentic and relatable approach to personal growth. She builds a genuine connection with her audience, offering practical advice and encouragement that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend. Ash doesn't shy away from life's challenges; instead, she provides the tools to tackle them head-on with confidence. Authentic Optimism: Ash's positive energy is contagious, empowering her audience to embrace new challenges with a more capable and hopeful mindset. Relatable Advice: Ash offers unfiltered, real-world guidance that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Her understanding that life can be tough makes her advice both honest and deeply encouraging. Actionable Strategies: Beyond just feeling good, Ash provides practical tips and strategies designed to help you turn your aspirations into tangible results. For a consistent source of inspiration, genuine encouragement, and actionable advice, Ash Brown is your ultimate resource. Her incredible positivity and unwavering dedication to helping others make her the ideal guide for maximizing your life's potential. Connect with Ash Brown: Goli Gummy Discounts: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 Luxury Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.

Neena Rose is a Canadian singer and songwriter who has captivated the music industry with her impressive talent and a string of successful releases. Hailing from Hamilton, Ontario, Rose gfirst burst onto the scene in 2018 with her breakout single "Games," and she has continued to build a strong following ever since. Since her debut, Neena Rose's music has garnered significant attention, amassing over 12.4 million streams across all digital platforms and being featured on more than 240,000 playlists. Her popularity extends to social media, where she boasts over 875,000 followers on TikTok. A recognized artist, Neena Rose was honored with a double nomination at the Hollywood Independent Music Awardsin 2023 for "Original Recording of the Year" and "Best Pop/Rock Song of the Year." She won in the "Original Recording of the Year" category. Her accolades also include being one of only six Canadians nominated for the Hollywood Music and Media Awards in 2019. In a historic moment for Canadian music, she and three fellow nominees received a standing ovation at Queens Park from the Provincial Members of Parliament. Neena Rose's musical journey began early. At just 12 years old, she recorded her debut single "Rock N Roll Lullaby" with Diamond/Platinum producer Roy "Royalty" Hamilton III (known for his work with Britney Spears and Nas). Since then, she has collaborated with a variety of award-winning producers from Toronto, Los Angeles, and Europe. Her performance experience is just as impressive; she has performed for audiences as large as 14,000 and even for Oprah Winfrey in her hometown. With a strong presence across platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and SoundCloud, Neena Rose continues to grow her career and connect with a global audience. TikTok: @neenarosemusic IG: @neenaroseofficial Web: https://www.neenarosemusic.com Ash Brown: Your Ultimate Guide to Inspiration, Empowerment, and Action Are you searching for a dynamic motivational speaker, an authentic podcaster, or an influential media personality who can ignite your passion for personal growth? Look no further than Ash Brown. This American multi-talented powerhouse is a captivating event host, an insightful blogger, and a dedicated advocate for helping people unlock their full potential. With her infectious optimism and genuine desire to empower others, Ash Brown has become a leading voice in the personal development and motivation space. Discover the World of Ash Brown: AshSaidit.com & The Ash Said It Show AshSaidit.com: A vibrant lifestyle blog and event platform, AshSaidit.com is your gateway to Ash's world. Here you'll find exclusive event invitations, honest product reviews, and a wealth of engaging content designed to inform and inspire. It's the perfect online destination to stay connected and get your daily dose of Ash's unique personality and insights. The Ash Said It Show: With over 2,100 episodes and over half a million global listens, "The Ash Said It Show" is a powerful and popular podcast. Ash engages in meaningful conversations with inspiring guests, diving into topics that truly matter. Listeners gain valuable life lessons, encouragement, and practical advice to help them navigate their own journeys. Why Ash Brown is a Leading Voice in Personal Development What truly distinguishes Ash Brown is her authentic and relatable approach to personal growth. She builds a genuine connection with her audience, offering practical advice and encouragement that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend. Ash doesn't shy away from life's challenges; instead, she provides the tools to tackle them head-on with confidence. Authentic Optimism: Ash's positive energy is contagious, empowering her audience to embrace new challenges with a more capable and hopeful mindset. Relatable Advice: Ash offers unfiltered, real-world guidance that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Her understanding that life can be tough makes her advice both honest and deeply encouraging. Actionable Strategies: Beyond just feeling good, Ash provides practical tips and strategies designed to help you turn your aspirations into tangible results. For a consistent source of inspiration, genuine encouragement, and actionable advice, Ash Brown is your ultimate resource. Her incredible positivity and unwavering dedication to helping others make her the ideal guide for maximizing your life's potential. Connect with Ash Brown: Goli Gummy Discounts: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 Luxury Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.

Women are not small men (the data) | strength training | technique | body shapes | exercise + stress | pelvic floor | fasting | cold plunge | protein | supplements

Beth Goldfarb is a fashion and beauty content creator based in Boston. She emphasizes the importance of consistency and authenticity in her work, believing that growth comes from discipline and staying true to one's voice. She says she never promotes anything she doesn't believe in and that her audience trusts her because she is genuine. Goldfarb's work is a reflection of her personal journey, and she hopes to inspire others to "create the life they truly want." She states that she "didn't wait for permission" and wants others to know they have the power to bet on themselves, as their dreams don't have an expiration date. She attributes her success to the support of her family, friends, and audience. Follow: @bethgoldfarb Web: https://bethgoldfarbfashion.co... Ash Brown: Your Ultimate Guide to Inspiration, Empowerment, and Action Are you searching for a dynamic motivational speaker, an authentic podcaster, or an influential media personality who can ignite your passion for personal growth? Look no further than Ash Brown. This American multi-talented powerhouse is a captivating event host, an insightful blogger, and a dedicated advocate for helping people unlock their full potential. With her infectious optimism and genuine desire to empower others, Ash Brown has become a leading voice in the personal development and motivation space. Discover the World of Ash Brown: AshSaidit.com & The Ash Said It Show AshSaidit.com: A vibrant lifestyle blog and event platform, AshSaidit.com is your gateway to Ash's world. Here you'll find exclusive event invitations, honest product reviews, and a wealth of engaging content designed to inform and inspire. It's the perfect online destination to stay connected and get your daily dose of Ash's unique personality and insights. The Ash Said It Show: With over 2,100 episodes and over half a million global listens, "The Ash Said It Show" is a powerful and popular podcast. Ash engages in meaningful conversations with inspiring guests, diving into topics that truly matter. Listeners gain valuable life lessons, encouragement, and practical advice to help them navigate their own journeys. Why Ash Brown is a Leading Voice in Personal Development What truly distinguishes Ash Brown is her authentic and relatable approach to personal growth. She builds a genuine connection with her audience, offering practical advice and encouragement that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend. Ash doesn't shy away from life's challenges; instead, she provides the tools to tackle them head-on with confidence. Authentic Optimism: Ash's positive energy is contagious, empowering her audience to embrace new challenges with a more capable and hopeful mindset. Relatable Advice: Ash offers unfiltered, real-world guidance that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Her understanding that life can be tough makes her advice both honest and deeply encouraging. Actionable Strategies: Beyond just feeling good, Ash provides practical tips and strategies designed to help you turn your aspirations into tangible results. For a consistent source of inspiration, genuine encouragement, and actionable advice, Ash Brown is your ultimate resource. Her incredible positivity and unwavering dedication to helping others make her the ideal guide for maximizing your life's potential. Connect with Ash Brown: Goli Gummy Discounts: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 Luxury Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.

Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta is thrilled to announce an exclusive collaboration with Lucid Group, Inc., the maker of the world's most advanced electric vehicles. This unique partnership offers guests complimentary access to the Lucid Air, blending a new level of luxury, performance, and sustainability from the heart of Midtown Atlanta. Guests can now explore the city in a stunning Lucid Air for self-guided adventures, enjoying the seamless combination of visionary engineering and elegant design. Whether it's a scenic drive past the High Museum and Piedmont Park, or a stylish ride to one of Atlanta's Michelin-starred restaurants, this experience allows visitors to discover the city's iconic neighborhoods silently, stylishly, and sustainably. "Our partnership with Lucid provides guests a unique opportunity to explore Atlanta with comfort, style, and sustainability in mind," says General Manager Nancy Chacon. The Lucid Air's cutting-edge technology and commitment to thoughtful luxury perfectly reflect the Four Seasons' dedication to unparalleled guest service and innovation. For added convenience, the hotel provides curated driving routes from its Concierge team and offers the Lucid Air as a chauffeured house car. With on-site EV charging stations, the hotel further supports electric mobility. This partnership is a testament to the Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta's continued commitment to providing a modern urban retreat where innovation, culture, and hospitality converge. Web: https://www.fourseasons.com/at... Photo Credit - Thomas Espinoza About Four Seasons Atlanta: As the vibrant cultural heart of the American South, Atlanta invites visitors to experience Southern hospitality with a modern, luxurious twist. This premier luxury hotel in Midtown Atlanta is perfectly situated for guests to immerse themselves in the city's dynamic energy. Just steps from renowned cultural landmarks like the High Museum of Art and the sprawling green space of Piedmont Park, the hotel offers an unparalleled blend of convenience and opulence. Whether you're a business mogul, a discerning celebrity, or a family exploring the city, this hotel caters to all. Guests can start their day with a delicious breakfast on the atrium bridge, indulge in a healthy dose of self-care at the serene Spa, or venture out to explore the bustling Peachtree Street. The day concludes with an exquisite dinner and drinks at the on-site dining hotspot, Bar Margot, making every moment of the stay effortlessly memorable. This is more than a hotel; it's a gateway to Atlanta's best, designed for those who seek luxury, culture, and connection. Searching for a luxury electric vehicle that redefines performance, elegance, and range? Look no further than the Lucid Air. This isn't just another EV; it's a meticulously engineered sedan that sets a new benchmark for sustainable luxury. With its groundbreaking design, unparalleled range, and exhilarating performance, the Lucid Air is a top contender for drivers who demand the best. Discover why this revolutionary electric car is turning heads and leading the way in modern automotive innovation. Web: https://www.lucidmotors.com/ai... Ash Brown: Your Ultimate Guide to Inspiration, Empowerment, and Action Are you searching for a dynamic motivational speaker, an authentic podcaster, or an influential media personality who can ignite your passion for personal growth? Look no further than Ash Brown. This American multi-talented powerhouse is a captivating event host, an insightful blogger, and a dedicated advocate for helping people unlock their full potential. With her infectious optimism and genuine desire to empower others, Ash Brown has become a leading voice in the personal development and motivation space. Discover the World of Ash Brown: AshSaidit.com & The Ash Said It Show AshSaidit.com: A vibrant lifestyle blog and event platform, AshSaidit.com is your gateway to Ash's world. Here you'll find exclusive event invitations, honest product reviews, and a wealth of engaging content designed to inform and inspire. It's the perfect online destination to stay connected and get your daily dose of Ash's unique personality and insights. The Ash Said It Show: With over 2,100 episodes and over half a million global listens, "The Ash Said It Show" is a powerful and popular podcast. Ash engages in meaningful conversations with inspiring guests, diving into topics that truly matter. Listeners gain valuable life lessons, encouragement, and practical advice to help them navigate their own journeys. Why Ash Brown is a Leading Voice in Personal Development What truly distinguishes Ash Brown is her authentic and relatable approach to personal growth. She builds a genuine connection with her audience, offering practical advice and encouragement that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend. Ash doesn't shy away from life's challenges; instead, she provides the tools to tackle them head-on with confidence. Authentic Optimism: Ash's positive energy is contagious, empowering her audience to embrace new challenges with a more capable and hopeful mindset. Relatable Advice: Ash offers unfiltered, real-world guidance that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Her understanding that life can be tough makes her advice both honest and deeply encouraging. Actionable Strategies: Beyond just feeling good, Ash provides practical tips and strategies designed to help you turn your aspirations into tangible results. For a consistent source of inspiration, genuine encouragement, and actionable advice, Ash Brown is your ultimate resource. Her incredible positivity and unwavering dedication to helping others make her the ideal guide for maximizing your life's potential. Connect with Ash Brown: Goli Gummy Discounts: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 Luxury Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.

In this highly anticipated conversation with Life Time's Regional Manager of Fitness Programming, Leah Quartararo, we discovered how the new athletic club in the complex of the King & Queen Building is revolutionizing wellness for Atlanta's busiest professionals and their families. Leah shared her expert insights on creating a luxury fitness experience that's both high-performance and welcoming to all, proving you don't need endless time to prioritize your health. We delved into the secrets of corporate wellness, a topic Leah is uniquely qualified to discuss given her background in the high-fashion industry. She revealed simple, powerful strategies for executives to stay fit without a complete lifestyle overhaul. This exclusive interview also highlighted the critical—and often overlooked—role of recovery and specialized training in a busy life, a core philosophy behind the club's unique offerings. For anyone just starting their fitness journey in Atlanta, Leah's expert advice is a game-changer! Web: https://www.lifetime.life/loca... About Life Time Perimeter: Strategically situated for ultimate accessibility, Life Time Perimeter stands as a beacon of luxury and wellness in North Atlanta. This expansive 79,000-square-foot athletic country club, conveniently located at the intersection of Interstate 285 and Georgia 400, offers an escape where convenience meets unparalleled opulence. It is a destination designed to be effortless to arrive at, yet a true challenge to depart from, offering a comprehensive and all-inclusive experience for its members. The facility provides a complete lifestyle ecosystem, boasting state-of-the-art fitness equipment, dedicated studios for a wide array of group fitness classes—including yoga, cycle, and high-intensity training—and a spacious indoor pool. Members can retreat to the LifeSpa for rejuvenating treatments or fuel their bodies at the LifeCafe, which serves a menu of healthy, delicious options. Every detail within this premier athletic club, from the elegant design to the cutting-edge technology, is crafted to enhance the quality of life for its community. Life Time Perimeter is more than just a gym; it is an urban sanctuary where wellness, social connection, and thoughtful luxury converge. Ash Brown: Your Ultimate Guide to Inspiration, Empowerment, and Action Are you searching for a dynamic motivational speaker, an authentic podcaster, or an influential media personality who can ignite your passion for personal growth? Look no further than Ash Brown. This American multi-talented powerhouse is a captivating event host, an insightful blogger, and a dedicated advocate for helping people unlock their full potential. With her infectious optimism and genuine desire to empower others, Ash Brown has become a leading voice in the personal development and motivation space. Discover the World of Ash Brown: AshSaidit.com & The Ash Said It Show AshSaidit.com: A vibrant lifestyle blog and event platform, AshSaidit.com is your gateway to Ash's world. Here you'll find exclusive event invitations, honest product reviews, and a wealth of engaging content designed to inform and inspire. It's the perfect online destination to stay connected and get your daily dose of Ash's unique personality and insights. The Ash Said It Show: With over 2,100 episodes and over half a million global listens, "The Ash Said It Show" is a powerful and popular podcast. Ash engages in meaningful conversations with inspiring guests, diving into topics that truly matter. Listeners gain valuable life lessons, encouragement, and practical advice to help them navigate their own journeys. Why Ash Brown is a Leading Voice in Personal Development What truly distinguishes Ash Brown is her authentic and relatable approach to personal growth. She builds a genuine connection with her audience, offering practical advice and encouragement that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend. Ash doesn't shy away from life's challenges; instead, she provides the tools to tackle them head-on with confidence. Authentic Optimism: Ash's positive energy is contagious, empowering her audience to embrace new challenges with a more capable and hopeful mindset. Relatable Advice: Ash offers unfiltered, real-world guidance that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Her understanding that life can be tough makes her advice both honest and deeply encouraging. Actionable Strategies: Beyond just feeling good, Ash provides practical tips and strategies designed to help you turn your aspirations into tangible results. For a consistent source of inspiration, genuine encouragement, and actionable advice, Ash Brown is your ultimate resource. Her incredible positivity and unwavering dedication to helping others make her the ideal guide for maximizing your life's potential. Connect with Ash Brown: Goli Gummy Discounts: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 Luxury Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.

Education and job training can lead to good jobs and living wages; but for many adult learners, that path to greater prosperity is anything but straightforward. Structural barriers, disconnected systems, and outdated models often make it difficult for individuals to gain the skills and credentials they need to advance their careers. How can we modernize education and workforce systems and create opportunities for all learners? In this episode of the Leading Voices podcast, host Danny Torres talks with Kathy Booth, Director of the Center for Economic Mobility at WestEd, and Randy Tillery, Director of Economic Mobility and Postsecondary and Workforce Systems at WestEd and Co-Director of the Center for Economic Mobility. They discuss the challenges many adult learners face—such as balancing work, caregiving, and school—and why short-term training alone often falls short. They emphasize the value of cross-sector partnerships between community colleges, employers, and workforce organizations in building systems that are more responsive to both learners' needs and local labor markets.  Their conversation covers the following topics:  How valuable it is to build partnerships that connect education institutions, employers, and workforce systems  How labor market data can inform program design and improve outcomes  Why lifelong learning and skills-based hiring are essential in today's economy  How systems can adapt to support learning across all stages of life  Read the Transcript Additional Resources WestEd Center for Economic Mobility (Website)  The Credential Value Index (Website)  What Gets in the Way of Education Reforms? (Blog)  About the Center The Center for Economic Mobility at WestEd brings together employers, educational institutions, and workforce systems to codesign solutions that meet the needs of both learners and employers. By strengthening linkages between systems, the Center aims to foster greater access to education, job training, and credentials so that learners can build stable and rewarding careers. Visit economic-mobility.WestEd.org to learn more. 

Party Room Squad has an exciting announcement! If you missed the deadline to register with Miami's premier band, you're in luck. Due to a few last-minute cancellations, a limited number of costumes have become available in certain sections. Don't miss your chance to join the most sought-after band in Miami! Call to register now before these final spots are gone. Be sure to mention you heard about this on The Ash Said It Show. Call Carl TODAY @ 305-301-8538. Quantities are limited. About: Join the ultimate celebration with Miami's premier Carnival band, Party Room Squad! For over two decades, we've been a cornerstone of the Caribbean Carnival, dedicated to preserving its rich traditions and introducing them to new generations. Founded in 1995, our mission is to deliver an unforgettable carnival experience that blends vibrant culture, historical roots, and a diverse, multi-racial community. As a masquerading band, we are committed to showcasing the best of Caribbean heritage through stunning costumes and high-energy parades. Our unique approach involves mentoring and teaching the younger generation, empowering them to become creative leaders in designing our annual themes and costumes. This collaborative effort ensures that the spirit of Carnival is passed down and celebrated for years to come. Experience the thrill of Miami Carnival with Party Room Squad. Whether you're a seasoned masquerader or a first-timer, get ready for a spectacular showcase of culture, community, and pure fun. Don't just attend the carnival—be a part of the legacy. Join Party Room Squad and find your place in the heart of Miami's biggest party. Ash Brown: Your Ultimate Guide to Inspiration, Empowerment, and Action Are you searching for a dynamic motivational speaker, an authentic podcaster, or an influential media personality who can ignite your passion for personal growth? Look no further than Ash Brown. This American multi-talented powerhouse is a captivating event host, an insightful blogger, and a dedicated advocate for helping people unlock their full potential. With her infectious optimism and genuine desire to empower others, Ash Brown has become a leading voice in the personal development and motivation space. Discover the World of Ash Brown: AshSaidit.com & The Ash Said It Show AshSaidit.com: A vibrant lifestyle blog and event platform, AshSaidit.com is your gateway to Ash's world. Here you'll find exclusive event invitations, honest product reviews, and a wealth of engaging content designed to inform and inspire. It's the perfect online destination to stay connected and get your daily dose of Ash's unique personality and insights. The Ash Said It Show: With over 2,100 episodes and over half a million global listens, "The Ash Said It Show" is a powerful and popular podcast. Ash engages in meaningful conversations with inspiring guests, diving into topics that truly matter. Listeners gain valuable life lessons, encouragement, and practical advice to help them navigate their own journeys. Why Ash Brown is a Leading Voice in Personal Development What truly distinguishes Ash Brown is her authentic and relatable approach to personal growth. She builds a genuine connection with her audience, offering practical advice and encouragement that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend. Ash doesn't shy away from life's challenges; instead, she provides the tools to tackle them head-on with confidence. Authentic Optimism: Ash's positive energy is contagious, empowering her audience to embrace new challenges with a more capable and hopeful mindset. Relatable Advice: Ash offers unfiltered, real-world guidance that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Her understanding that life can be tough makes her advice both honest and deeply encouraging. Actionable Strategies: Beyond just feeling good, Ash provides practical tips and strategies designed to help you turn your aspirations into tangible results. For a consistent source of inspiration, genuine encouragement, and actionable advice, Ash Brown is your ultimate resource. Her incredible positivity and unwavering dedication to helping others make her the ideal guide for maximizing your life's potential. Goli Gummy Discounts: https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 Luxury Handbag Discounts: https://www.theofficialathena.... Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/po... Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1lov... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsa... Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog #atlanta #ashsaidit #theashsaiditshow #ashblogsit #ashsaidit®Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-ash-said-it-show--1213325/support.

Are you too busy to journal—or just not doing it the right way? In this episode, I sit down with the extraordinary Jo Franco—Netflix host, polyglot, entrepreneur, and journaling pioneer—to unpack the true power of journaling as a transformational tool for self-awareness, leadership, and productivity. If you've ever thought journaling was a fluffy “dear diary” ritual, think again. Jo brings science, soul, and strategy to the table, showing how even five minutes with the right prompt can unlock clarity, confidence, and momentum in your life and work. We dive into her personal journey—from being handed a journal as a kid to now leading global journaling workshops that change lives. Along the way, we explore how journaling helps you excavate your goals, align with your values, and become the person you actually want to be—not just the one society tells you to be. Whether you're a seasoned high-achiever or brand new to the concept of journaling, this episode will give you the prompts, structure, and real-world inspiration to make this practice a game changer. Topics We Cover in This Episode:    Why journaling isn't about documenting your day—but designing your life The surprisingly simple weekly routine that changed everything for me Jo's go-to energy audit framework (and how to use it in under 5 minutes) How journaling helps uncover the real reason behind your goals The science-backed prompts that increase happiness, productivity, and memory Why rereading your journal entries is just as important as writing them How to use journaling to become a more impactful leader and partner The journaling method that builds instant depth in your team or relationship Ready to start writing your future self into existence? Head to JoClub.World to check out Jo's free journaling 101 workshop and grab your starter kit. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who could use some clarity and confidence.    Resources Mentioned: Get Jo's Journaling Starter Kit and Free Workshop Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!  

Are you too busy to journal—or just not doing it the right way? In this episode, I sit down with the extraordinary Jo Franco—Netflix host, polyglot, entrepreneur, and journaling pioneer—to unpack the true power of journaling as a transformational tool for self-awareness, leadership, and productivity. If you've ever thought journaling was a fluffy “dear diary” ritual, think again. Jo brings science, soul, and strategy to the table, showing how even five minutes with the right prompt can unlock clarity, confidence, and momentum in your life and work. We dive into her personal journey—from being handed a journal as a kid to now leading global journaling workshops that change lives. Along the way, we explore how journaling helps you excavate your goals, align with your values, and become the person you actually want to be—not just the one society tells you to be. Whether you're a seasoned high-achiever or brand new to the concept of journaling, this episode will give you the prompts, structure, and real-world inspiration to make this practice a game changer. Topics We Cover in This Episode:  Why journaling isn't about documenting your day—but designing your life The surprisingly simple weekly routine that changed everything for me Jo's go-to energy audit framework (and how to use it in under 5 minutes) How journaling helps uncover the real reason behind your goals The science-backed prompts that increase happiness, productivity, and memory Why rereading your journal entries is just as important as writing them How to use journaling to become a more impactful leader and partner The journaling method that builds instant depth in your team or relationship Ready to start writing your future self into existence? Head to JoClub.World to check out Jo's free journaling 101 workshop and grab your starter kit. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who could use some clarity and confidence.    Resources Mentioned: Get Jo's Journaling Starter Kit and Free Workshop Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!  

Are you too busy to journal—or just not doing it the right way? In this episode, I sit down with the extraordinary Jo Franco—Netflix host, polyglot, entrepreneur, and journaling pioneer—to unpack the true power of journaling as a transformational tool for self-awareness, leadership, and productivity. If you've ever thought journaling was a fluffy “dear diary” ritual, think again. Jo brings science, soul, and strategy to the table, showing how even five minutes with the right prompt can unlock clarity, confidence, and momentum in your life and work. We dive into her personal journey—from being handed a journal as a kid to now leading global journaling workshops that change lives. Along the way, we explore how journaling helps you excavate your goals, align with your values, and become the person you actually want to be—not just the one society tells you to be. Whether you're a seasoned high-achiever or brand new to the concept of journaling, this episode will give you the prompts, structure, and real-world inspiration to make this practice a game changer. Topics We Cover in This Episode:    Why journaling isn't about documenting your day—but designing your life The surprisingly simple weekly routine that changed everything for me Jo's go-to energy audit framework (and how to use it in under 5 minutes) How journaling helps uncover the real reason behind your goals The science-backed prompts that increase happiness, productivity, and memory Why rereading your journal entries is just as important as writing them How to use journaling to become a more impactful leader and partner The journaling method that builds instant depth in your team or relationship Ready to start writing your future self into existence? Head to JoClub.World to check out Jo's free journaling 101 workshop and grab your starter kit. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who could use some clarity and confidence.    Resources Mentioned: Get Jo's Journaling Starter Kit and Free Workshop Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!  

Loneliness is silently destroying leaders—and destroying teams. In this Spartan Leadership episode, Josh Kosnick sits down with Shasta Nelson, top keynote speaker and author of The Business of Friendship and Frientimacy, to uncover why connection is not a luxury for leaders—it's a leadership advantage.Shasta breaks down her “Connection Triangle” (positivity, consistency, vulnerability), explains why so many high achievers neglect relationships, and challenges the myth that it has to be “lonely at the top.” We also explore the difference between happiness and joy, how to build meaningful connection without crossing boundaries, and why learning to navigate relationships will transform your leadership, your company, and your life.Shasta will be joining us live at Bridge Builder Live in Madison, WI, on August 7th, where she will help leaders develop the relationships that drive clarity, health, and high performance.Join us: https://joshkosnick.com/bridgebuilderliveFollow Shasta:Website: https://www.shastanelson.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shastanelson/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shastamnelson/If you're ready to lead with deeper connection, tune in now.It can be lonely being a leader, but it doesn't have to be! Having a strong support network and focusing on leadership skillscan make challenges seem less daunting. Prioritize personal growth and social connections to foster team building and avoid isolation.If you need connection as a leader, visit joshkosnick.com to learn how to become a part of the community of leaders we are building!00:00:00 - Introduction00:00:04 - The Importance of Connection in Leadership00:00:54 - Announcement of Bridge Builder Live 202500:02:39 - Introduction to the Interview with Shasta Nelson00:03:00 - Shasta Nelson's Journey to Becoming a Leading Voice in Connection00:03:46 - Shasta's Transition from War Correspondent to Pastor to Speaker00:03:59 - The Role of a Pastor in Shaping Shasta's Speaking Career00:08:36 - The Importance of Community in Church00:09:24 - How to Break into the World of Speaking00:12:42 - The Importance of Building a Brand and Credibility00:13:34 - The Impact of Relationships on Business and Teams00:15:58 - The Role of Relationships in Happiness00:18:04 - The Difference Between Joy and Happiness00:21:13 - The Connection Triangle and Its Importance in Leadership00:25:13 - Loneliness in Leadership and Its Consequences00:30:47 - Spartan Valor Foundation is dedicated to empowering veterans, military families, and survivors of child trafficking. Through strategic partnerships, we provide critical resources, advocacy, and hope for those who have sacrificed so much. Join us in making a difference—because no hero should stand alone.

Send us a textIn conversation with Magi Gibson, leading voice in Scottish poetry, author, creative writing tutor and literary events organiser. A fascinating listen to Magi who is a feminist and a powerful voice against blacklisting and cancellation for gender critical beliefsIf you enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to hear more, go to womensrights.network/wrn-podcast to listen, download and subscribe to more of our episodes. And if you'd like to join our conversations, go to womensrights.network/join-wrn

Senior Congressional Reporter Ally Mutnick joins Anna to discuss her interview with Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), to get his perspective on the future of energy. Want more in-depth daily coverage from Congress? Subscribe to our free Punchbowl News AM newsletter at punchbowl.news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eesti Kooriühingu, Eesti Muusika- ja Teatriakadeemia ning Euroopa Kooriühingu koostöös algas eile rahvusvaheline konverents Leading Voices, mis pakub enam kui 50 sessiooni ligikaudu 40 esinejaga.

On Sunday night, devastating news came out of Idaho, as Americans learned that a gunman opened fire on firefighters responding to a call — ultimately killing two of them. Because the heinous news broke during 'Sunday Night in America with Trey Gowdy,' the interviews he had prepared weren't aired as breaking news rightfully took priority. So today, Trey chose three conversations that didn't make it to air to share — ones that dive into a range of key issues in the country. First, Trey speaks with CIA Director John Ratcliffe about the ongoing war between Iran and Israel, and how badly Iran's nuclear program was damaged by U.S. strikes. Later, he speaks with Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, Congressman Jason Smith (R-MO) about whether he believes the 'big, beautiful bill' will end up on President Trump's desk by July 4th, and welcomes U.S. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche to break down major Supreme Court decisions recently made in Washington. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the clock winds down on the fiscal year, the Arizona Legislature has dealt with a lot of budget drama. Friday NewsCap panelists analyze that and the rest of the week's top stories. Plus, Pastor Warren Stewart Sr. on nearly 50 years behind the pulpit.

From Moneycontrol Mutual Fund Summit, we spotlight the leading voices on industry trends and growth prospects. We also report on a possible fresh controversy at Indusind as a probe reveals microloan defaults. Meanwhile, a fragile truce in West Asia came as a relief for Indian exporters for whom the middle east is a major market. Also, in a welcome move, the government is planning to extend social security benefits to gig workers. Tune in for all this and more in today's edition of moneycontrol Editor's Picks.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an effective framework for creating flexible learning environments by designing learning experiences that give students choices in how they learn, what materials they use, and how they show their understanding. But can this framework be applied beyond the classroom as an engaging and innovative approach to solving enduring challenges within systems? WestEd's UDL Lab and "UDL Jams” use the principles of the UDL framework to bring people together in real time to collaboratively solve complex problems. Inspired by the improvisational and collaborative nature of jazz, these sessions create a space where participants bring their unique expertise to co-create meaningful, actionable solutions. In this episode of the Leading Voices podcast, host Danny Torres talks with Dr. Zach Smith, Senior Project Director, and Dr. Jose Blackorby, Director of Research and Learner Variability, both from WestEd's Special Education Policy and Practice team. They explain the origins of UDL, how their UDL Jam model works, and why this approach is gaining momentum among educators, system leaders, and innovators across sectors. Their conversation covers the following topics: How UDL framework inspired UDL Jams Sessions The four core questions guiding UDL application in learning and leadership Why jazz serves as a perfect metaphor for inclusive, improvisational collaboration Transcript Additional Resources WestEd's Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Jams Inspires Creative Problem Solving (Blog Post) CAST Universal Design for Learning Framework (Website)

Join guest host Dr. Chrisna Perry and renowned literacy expert Dr. Elfrieda Hiebert as they explore the groundbreaking potential of AI in supporting vocabulary development and improving literacy outcomes. Dr. Hiebert discusses how AI tools can analyze language data to uncover powerful insights about word features—like morphology, exposure age, abstraction, and frequency—and how educators can use these insights to select words and texts more strategically.Whether you're an educator, curriculum designer, or edtech innovator, this conversation offers fresh ideas on how technology can revolutionize the way students learn language.Visit Savvas.com/Literacy today to learn more about our high-quality PreK-12 literacy solutions for your school district.To keep the conversation going follow us @SavvasLearning on Instagram, Facebook, X, Youtube, or Linkedin. Visit Savvas.com today to learn more about our award-winning K-12 programs and to request curriculum samples for your school or district.

John Maytham is joined by Dr. Lerothodi Leeuw, a leading voice in the field and senior researcher with the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) and Research Associate at UNISA – to discuss whether Starlink is going to have an impact on the world’s most powerful radio telescope. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: 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.

Punchbowl News Senior Congressional Reporter Andrew Desiderio joins Anna Palmer to talk about his interview with a leading voice in the future of medicine, Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.). The chair of the Senate Health Committee discussed Medicaid and drug pricing among other issues in health care. Want more in-depth daily coverage from Congress? ⁠⁠Subscribe⁠⁠ to our free Punchbowl News AM newsletter at ⁠⁠punchbowl.news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Placement into accelerated mathematics courses can open doors for students, paving the way toward advanced high school coursework, college readiness, and future career opportunities. But ensuring students are placed accurately requires a rigorous, evidence-based approach.  In this episode of the Leading Voices podcast, host Danny Torres talks with Scott Firkins, Director of Assessment Content at WestEd, and leaders from the Palo Alto Unified School District in California, Dr. Guillermo López, Associate Superintendent of Educational Services, and Janine Penney, Manager of Assessment. They discuss how the district collaborated with WestEd to transform its placement process for accelerated mathematics in middle school. The result is a fair and evidence-based mathematics validation process designed to accurately place students in the right course in the mathematics pathway.  Their conversation covers the following topics: Why Palo Alto Unified School District sought to redesign its validation assessment The role of high-quality assessment development and psychometric validation in the redesign  How ensuring transparency builds trust within the community  What early results are revealing about the new process and student readiness and success Transcript Additional Resources PAUSD Validation Test Research Brief (PDF) Palo Alto Unified School District Mathematics Program (Website) Designing High-Quality Assessment Solutions with WestEd (Website) Comprehensive Assessment Solutions (Website)

Judy Joo is a classically trained chef, entrepreneur, and television personality whose unconventional journey spans engineering, Wall Street, and the world's top kitchens. She is an Iron Chef, cookbook author, and dynamic force in the food world, celebrated for modernizing and globalizing Korean cuisine.Judy is the founder of Seoul Bird, a Korean fast-casual fried chicken concept with locations in London, New York, Las Vegas, and beyond.Seoul Bird merges bold Korean street food flavors with the speed and scale of modern dining, combining Judy's culinary heritage and operational expertise.Before launching her restaurant empire, Judy trained at the French Culinary Institute, worked in Michelin-starred restaurants like The French Laundry and Gordon Ramsay's empire, and became a recognizable face on Food Network. Seoul Bird is expanding through a strategic mix of franchising and licensing, including high-traffic venues like Citi Field and Edinburgh Airport.Judy left Wall Street to pursue her passion for food, trading finance for the kitchen with zero expectations—just love for cooking.Her engineering and banking backgrounds continue to shape how she designs restaurants and runs operations at scale.As a Korean-American woman in male-dominated fields—finance, engineering, and restaurants—Judy forged ahead with “fearlessness or I just don't care” confidence.She believes “today's invention is tomorrow's tradition,” especially in defining authenticity in global cuisines like Korean fried chicken.Seoul Bird thrives in arenas and airports, offering high-volume, high-flavor experiences with a focus on simplicity, quality, and cultural storytelling.She emphasizes the power of brand building—through books, TV, and food—as key to her business success.Judy finds inspiration everywhere, from grocery store aisles to international travel, always absorbing and evolving her culinary creativity.She's proud to see Korean food embraced globally, transforming from a source of school-lunch embarrassment into a pop-culture phenomenon. QUOTES “I love creating experiences. I love creating meals. I love food. I love the language of food. It is a language of love for me.” (Judy)“I’m going to downgrade my life in every way possible and work weekends and evenings and much longer hours and get paid a fraction of what I was getting paid.” (Judy)“I remember hesitating. Like, which one do I want to do? I was like, oh, math and science is easy for me. I’ll go to engineering school.” (Judy)“If I want to be in these industries where I am the one and only minority, the one and only female, I don't care. I’m going to do it.” (Judy)“A restaurant is a business at the end of the day. You have to know cost control, maximize profits, and understand finance.” (Judy)“I know so many chefs who can't even get their way around an Excel spreadsheet.” (Judy)“Koreans are obsessed with fried chicken. Obsessed. Obsessed.” (Judy)“Today's invention is tomorrow's tradition. Korean fried chicken came from war and evolved. Is it authentic? I think so.” (Judy)“I've gone from being embarrassed about my lunchbox to everybody spamming me, asking, ‘What are they eating? What are they drinking?'” (Judy)“As long as the DNA is there—that makes it Korean.” (Judy)“Television cheffing is much easier. You’re in a nice air-conditioned studio versus burning yourself and dealing with employees.” (Judy)“Every single time I’m in a grocery store, whenever I travel, you’re constantly seeing new things. That’s a huge source of inspiration.” (Judy) 

Join guest host Dr. Chrisna Perry and renowned literacy expert Dr. Alfred Tatum for an important episode of the Leading Voices in Literacy podcast. Together, they explore practical strategies educators can use to support struggling readers. Don't miss this special episode filled with valuable tips and actionable advice every literacy educator can bring to their classroom!Visit Savvas.com/Literacy today to learn more about our high-quality PreK-12 literacy solutions for your school district. To keep the conversation going follow us @SavvasLearning on Instagram, Facebook, X, Youtube, or Linkedin. Visit Savvas.com today to learn more about our award-winning K-12 programs and to request curriculum samples for your school or district.

Conversation with Sonia Esther Soltani on her career as a magazine editor and becoming one of the leading voices and consultants in the diamond and jewellery world.

Buy America isn't just a slogan — it's a lifeline for U.S. manufacturers and local communities. No one knows this more than Hollie Noveletsky, CEO of Novel Iron Works in New Hampshire. Hollie shares why strong Buy America policies are essential to leveling the playing field and how they reinvest public infrastructure dollars into local jobs and communities. Photo courtesy of Hollie Noveletsky

Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) have expanded across the United States in recent years. These accounts provide state education funds, originally allocated for students to attend public school, to be redirected to families to use for educational services of their choice. These programs enable parents to use these funds for a wide range of educational services, such as private school tuition, tutoring, distance learning options, and more. In this episode of the Leading Voices podcast, host Danny Torres talks with William Berry, Research Associate with WestEd's Charter and School Choice team, and Robin Chait Project Director with our School Choice team. They discuss how ESAs work, three primary accountability mechanisms, and the need for research on student outcomes. Their conversation covers the following topics: The growth or popularity of ESAs over time Variation and flexibility among state ESA programs Three types of accountability mechanisms Transcript Resources Mentioned in this Episode Education Savings Accounts and Accountability: A Landscape Analysis Across States (Report) Charters and School Choice (Website)

Join guest host Dr. Chrisna Perry and renowned multilingual learner expert Dr. Jim Cummins for an insightful episode of the Leading Voices in Literacy podcast. Together, they explore practical strategies educators can use to create a supportive, language-rich learning environment where multilingual learners thrive and reach their full academic potential. Don't miss this special episode packed with valuable tips and actionable advice that every literacy educator can bring to their classroom!Visit Savvas.com/Literacy today to learn more about our high-quality PreK-12 literacy solutions for your school district. To keep the conversation going follow us @SavvasLearning on Instagram, Facebook, X, Youtube, or Linkedin. Visit Savvas.com today to learn more about our award-winning K-12 programs and to request curriculum samples for your school or district.

Join guest host Dr. Chrisna Perry and renowned literacy expert Dr. Ernest Morrell for an inspiring episode of the Leading Voices in Literacy podcast series.Together, they delve into the challenges, opportunities, and innovative strategies shaping literacy education today—particularly for students navigating barriers to success. From boosting student engagement to incorporating digital literacy and media skills, this insightful conversation offers practical strategies for empowering students to take ownership of their learning.Don't miss this special episode filled with valuable tips and actionable advice every literacy educator can bring to their classroom.Visit Savvas.com/Literacy today to learn more about our high-quality PreK-12 literacy solutions for your school district. To keep the conversation going follow us @SavvasLearning on Instagram, Facebook, X, Youtube, or Linkedin. Visit Savvas.com today to learn more about our award-winning K-12 programs and to request curriculum samples for your school or district.

Given Jew-hatred and virulent anti-Israel rhetoric spiraling out of control, particularly on college campuses, we've invited Shai Davidai to be our featured guest on this episode of the program. Shai is Assistant Professor in the Management Division of Columbia University Business School. His research examines people's everyday judgments of themselves, other people, and society as a whole. Born and raised just outside Tel-Aviv, Shai received his Ph.D. from Cornell in 2015. Before joining Columbia Business School, Shai spent a year as a post-doctoral fellow at Princeton and 3 years as an Assistant Professor of Psychology at The New School for Social Research. Following the barbaric October 7th 2023 terrorist attack on Israel, Shai has faced deplorable treatment from Columbia University for standing up for Israel and the rights of Jewish students on campus. Today, he's a leading face and voice in the fight against Jew-hatred and Israel-bashing. Our conversation begins with Shai sharing his one way ticket to the safety of his late Grandmother's couch in Givatayim, just outside of Tel Aviv. While on weekend breaks from his university studies in Jerusalem, Shai would visit his Savta (Grandmother) Lydia. Together they would talk, smoke, drink Turkish coffee and enjoy her signature Romanian cheesecake. And at some point, Shai would fall asleep on her couch. Shai shares that Savta Lydia, who was from Bucharest, was studying to be a doctor. Aged 19 and after her first year of university, despite good grades, she was called into the Dean's office and told she wouldn't be able to continue her studies because the university met its quota of Jews. That, plus her being a woman, didn't fit the university's agenda. Realizing she had no future as a Jew in Romania, she packed up and traveled solo to Israel to chart a new course. Her biggest regret in life, Shai offers, is that she didn't become a doctor. We continue our chat with Shai highlighting: 1) How the first protests at Columbia supporting the October 7th attack (organizing began the evening of October 7th while terrorists were still in Israel!) took place at the university on October 12th before one IDF soldier set foot in Gaza and four days after Hezbollah's unprovoked attack on Israel's north. On the 12th, approximately 800 students, faculty and staff came out to celebrate “the historic day” (their words). They used slogans like “resistance by any means necessary” (which for them meant rape, murder and kidnapping civilians was “necessary”). For me, not sure what the need was for resistance since Israel had left Gaza 18 years before and thousands of Gazans would cross into Israel daily to work.  2) The Kafkaesque treatment he's received from Columbia University, simply for speaking out, not against the protestors or their hatred, but against Columbia's administration for allowing the hatred to fester and take root. For exercising his first amendment rights, he's been banned from Columbia's campus. This includes the Columbia Hillel. 3) His goal in speaking out is to push the message that we have a problem for support of anti-Jewish, anti-Israel and anti-American terrorism in academia. 4) How US professors openly support US designated terrorist groups, e.g., Hamas and the Houthis, but only ones that target Jews (you won't see support for Boko Haram). How the same professors and others remained and remain silent on, for example, the October 7th attack and the burning of synagogues worldwide. 5) Jewish students being verbally and physically attacked on campuses and denied entry into their public campus spaces. 6) The silent, slanted and biased behavior of international aid organizations like the Red Cross (which to this day has not visited one single hostage), UNRWA, or Amnesty International which engages in historical revisionism. 7) How the anti-Israel and Jew-hating protests are in fact anti-democratic and also anti-American. 8) What starts with the Jews doesn't end with the Jews. This is a powerful episode to be heard more than once and shared widely. For more from Shai, tune into his podcast: Here I Am With Shai Davidai.  Also, follow Shai on all social media: @shaidavidai

The Star Tribune's Andrew Krammer sat down with Vikings safety Josh Metellus for a wide-ranging interview about the fifth-year safety emerging as a leading voice for a veteran defense, playing with Harrison Smith and under Brian Flores, and hosting Tell Us With Metellus. You'll hear from Metellus, Smith and Maleah Pearson, a producer for Vikings.com.

In this episode, Aakash Gupta shares his journey from a tech-savvy kid in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to a successful product manager and creator in the Product Growth space. He shares his tough feedback experiences, how he's been able to overcome imposter syndrome, and how building a failed startup impacted his career. Aakash emphasizes the importance of self-care, emotional intelligence, and supportive mentorship in navigating corporate roles and leadership challenges. Aakash opens up about:How the collapse of a startup with 350k users reshaped his career and mindsetGetting specific feedback from a CMO that rattled his confidence Navigating a sticky situation when a team member on a PIP attempted to turn the entire company against him Things to listen for:(00:00) Intro(01:03) Aakash's journey: From VP to Creator(03:08) Debate skills shaping his product career(05:29) First SaaS job building sports tools(08:07) Lessons from his failed startup(12:26) How mentorship changed his mindset(14:17) Tough feedback from a CMO at Threadup(16:33) The role of emotional intelligence in leadership(28:08) Handling a difficult pip situation(37:01) Dealing with imposter syndrome(44:06) Personal habits for productivity

Zac Clark (@zwclark) is a mental health and addiction recovery advocate, motivational speaker, philanthropist, and CEO of Release Recovery (@releaserecovery), a New York-based organization providing comprehensive support for substance use disorders and mental health. He also co-founded the Release Recovery Foundation (@releaserecoveryfoundation), which removes financial barriers to treatment for underserved communities and works to destigmatize addiction. As a board member of Caron Treatment Centers (@carontreatmentcenters), where he began his own recovery journey 12 years ago, Zac emphasizes the importance of accessible care. He gained recognition for discussing his recovery on ABC's “The Bachelorette” and uses his platform to raise awareness about mental health issues among young people. An avid sports fan and sneaker enthusiast from Haddonfield, NJ, Zac has completed 12 marathons and the Goggins Challenge, raising nearly $2 million for recovery organizations. He resides in New York City. EPISODE OVERVIEW: 0:00:06 Zac Clark's Introduction and Background 0:07:07 Zac Clark's personal story and reflections 0:08:39 Building Release Recovery and overcoming challenges 0:17:45 Mindful practices and importance of physical and mental health and addiction treatment. 0:35:35 Zac's approach to building community and personal brand authenticity. 0:42:16 The Zac Clark Show and public speaking 0:50:31 Zac's future plans, including the acquisition of a men's mental health company. CONNECT: Share the love & let me know your thoughts over on Instagram,⁠  @coffeeandagoodvibe  | @ayeshasehra⁠ EPISODES MENTIONS: Follow Zac Clark on ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠Tiktok⁠ | Youtube Listen to The Zac Clark Show Podcast on ⁠Apple⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ |⁠ PodBay To learn more about  Release Recovery, click⁠ HERE⁠ Follow Release Recovery on Instagram⁠ WATCH THE FULL VIDEO INTERVIEWS ON YOUTUBE ➟ Watch & subscribe to our channel here ➟ ⁠Coffee & A Good Vibe Video Interviews ⁠ To connect with Ayesha Sehra ➟ click⁠ HERE⁠ Check out our podcast Insta ➟ click ⁠HERE⁠  To learn about my PR Agency Grow The Social ➟ click ⁠HERE ⁠ 

Tom Fox is passionate about podcasting and compliance. He is the Leading Voice in Compliance, having founded the only podcast network in compliance, the award-winning Compliance Podcast Network. Tom is also a co-founder of the award-winning Texas Hill Country Podcast Network, which focuses on a rural area of Texas. Tom has won 33 awards for podcast hosting and producing podcasts. He is also an award-winning blogger, having posted the FCPA Compliance and Ethics Report daily since 2010.Tom is also a best-selling author, having written 30 books in the areas of compliance, business ethics and leadership. He is the author of the seminal compliance work, The Compliance Handbook, now in its 4th edition. He is author of two other international best-sellers on compliance; Lessons Learned on Compliance and Ethics and Best Practices Under the FCPA and Bribery Act. He is most proud of his 3 best-selling children's books on compliance Being a Compliance Officer is Awesome, Speaking Up is Awesome and Compliance Saves the Galaxy. All 3 were published by Dinosaur House and are available at Amazon.com.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/inspiring-stories--2917948/support.

With food insecurity rising the world over, we cannot escape the reality that climate change is changing our food supply. This means people's livelihoods and lifestyles are changing too, particularly in developing countries. Join us on the Leading Voices in Food podcast as we discuss the rising impact of climate change on food security and livelihoods in Central America, specifically Honduras. Host Norbert Wilson, Director of the World Food Policy Center, along with co-host Sarah Bermeo, delve into the challenges and solutions with experts Marie-Soleil Turmel from Catholic Relief Services and Ana Andino from Duke University. Learn about the Dry Corridor, the effects of climate shocks, land restoration practices, and the role of international support in building community resilience. Interview Summary Sarah - Marie, some of your work with Catholic Relief Services engages with smallholder farmers in an area known as the Dry Corridor of Central America. Can you explain what the Dry Corridor is and provide some context about the food security situation in that area, and how much do residents depend on their own crops to provide food for their families? Marie - So, the Dry Corridor of Central America refers to a region that stretches across the Pacific side of Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. The region has a long dry season and a rainy season when the crops are produced. In the last 10 years, this region has been characterized as one of the most vulnerable to climate change. Mainly due to prolonged dry spells in the growing season and more unpredictable rainfall patterns. This region is made up of many small holder farmers in the rural population. These are small hillside farms growing staple crops, maize or corn, and beans with relatively low yields. And most of the household consumption is coming from these farms, and they're selling any surplus that is produced in a good year. These are rain-fed production systems. So, the amount of food that the farms produced is directly tied to the amount of rainfall, making them extremely vulnerable to droughts and climate shocks. And also the region has a very high degree of soil degradation. It's estimated 70 percent of agricultural soil is in a state of severe degradation. This makes farms even more susceptible to climate shocks. So, this is a region that's already struggling with poverty. Close to 8 million people are living in a situation of food insecurity. And now with increasing climate shocks that are affecting crop yields, it's sending more people into a situation of food emergency and requiring food aid. Norbert - Thank you, Marie, for providing that context. Ana, let's now turn to you. I understand that you've worked with the Honduran Ministry of Finance and the Inter American Development Bank on issues relating to economic development in Honduras. What do you view as some of the key development challenges facing the country? Ana - So Honduras faces several challenges which have been dragged out for many years. And now some of them have even worsened, particularly since 2020 when we were hit by the pandemic and the storms Eta and Iota. It's tough to pinpoint just one or a few of them since it's a convergence of complex scenarios, but if I had to mention one - and going along with the conversation we're having today - I would mention intersection between climate change and economic vulnerability. As we heard Marie talking about the Dry Corridor, there are many rural communities that rely heavily on agriculture. But climate variability has made it even more difficult to maintain stable food production, affecting income and food insecurity. So, by mid-2023, about 25 percent of the population was suffering from food insecurity. Nationally, agriculture provides employment for approximately 30 percent of the country's workforce. And there's verification agriculture is also limited, which, this dependency constrains sustainable growth and resilience. Also, I cannot leave behind the access to basic services such as water and electricity. Of course, I'll include in this education, right? It is important, and it's not only a matter of access to them, but also the quality of their services. Many households lack access to clean water. This impacts their daily life, but also their agricultural productivity. And even in the main cities, there is an inconsistent access to water and electricity, which affects livelihoods, but also small businesses to larger industries. Education is a no-brainer, since both access and quality remain a serious challenge. In this list, I would also like to add crime and violence, which remain high. And even though there has been an improvement in the last years, particularly reducing homicide rates, it still remains as one of the highest in Latin America. The situation is even worse when we look at femicide. Because Honduras is still one of the highest or has one of the highest rates of femicide in the region. That often goes along with high levels of impunity. And finally, we're almost getting there to my list of challenges, I would say that there is a lack of infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. There is no reliable access to roads or markets, which affects a lot of smallholder farmers. This also affects connectivity for roads. It limits access to health care and education. And these all are challenges that compound together. And yeah, to finally wrap it up, it's that without institutions that can effectively implement policies and manage resources, it'll be hard to, to have development efforts and to see growth in the country. Norbert - This sounds like a daunting set of challenges. And I realized that obviously in this conversation and the work that's going to happen later this week, we're not able to address all of those. But I would like to pull back and ask you both about issues around climate. And so, for the both of you, I'd be intrigued to understand this. Central America is believed to be highly susceptible to climate change, and Marie, you've already mentioned this. What are some of the key effects that climate change is having on the region? And I've heard you already talk about issues around availability of water. But how do these affect the livelihoods and particularly, how does this affect food security? So, Ana, let's begin with you. Ana – So, as Marie mentioned, there are a lot of extreme weather events going around, such as prolonged droughts, intense rainfall, tropical storms. And these weather patterns have a direct and severe impact on agricultural productivity. Especially in regions where families rely a lot on subsistence farming. It becomes a challenge to plant, to harvest crops. This leads to a reduction in yields. Also, people have less income, referring to income losses, which in the end has a cascading effect on food insecurity and poverty. So basically, what happens is that families have less to sell, but also have less to eat. If we transition to urban areas, climate change could cause floodings and damage to infrastructure, affecting severely industrial activity as well. This will disrupt the livelihoods of the people. In urban and rural areas, it exacerbates difficulties in accessing food, in accessing clean water, in accessing electricity. And just to give you an example, this happened back in 2020, right after Eta and Iota. We had long lasting effects, causing damage to agriculture, to livestock, to infrastructure. The effect on GDP was approximately eight to nine percent of GDP. And unsurprisingly, poverty rose 14 percentage points, which is a big increase. If you see national surveys going around, they have shown that people are having issues with getting access to food. And many people have also had to change their diet, leaving behind some proteins and introducing more carbohydrates or, or foods that are less expensive than proteins, right? And I would leave it there. Yeah. Norbert - This is really important. Thank you for sharing that. Marie, what about you? Marie - Ana really summed it up well, but I would add that it's really important to understand that that these farmers don't have crop insurance to fall back on like farmers in the U.S. So, we're seeing more frequent climate shocks, sometimes years in a row. Droughts and hurricanes. And farmers might be able to borrow seed or money, or to buy inputs to replant the next year, but after consecutive bad harvests, they run out of options and resources and really can't recover. And also keeping in mind that about 60 percent of the food in the region is coming from smallholder farms. And these climate shocks resulting in yield damage have implications for food prices and food security at the regional level, not just at the farm level, right? Sarah - So, Ana and Marie, you do a very nice job laying out the multiple challenges that are facing in urban areas. Turning from that to thinking about adaptations or policy changes that could be successful, can you think of some that might help in decreasing the negative impacts of climate change on farmers, particularly in the Dry Corridor? And, have you seen evidence? Can you bring evidence from your previous work for this to think about pathways forward and whether or not those would be scalable to additional farmers. Marie - So, a focus on land restoration and soil restoration is really key to building climate resilience. As I mentioned, these are areas with really highly degraded soils that are even more susceptible to these climate shocks. So, we're talking about managing the soil to manage water. And I just want to take a moment to explain why soil is so important for climate resilience. A healthy soil will capture and infiltrate more rainwater. These are rain fed systems, depending on every drop that falls. They store more water for plant production and also percolate more water down to recharge groundwater, which has an implication for water availability in the whole area. In a degraded soil, like much of the agricultural land in the Dry Corridor and other parts of the world, soils have lost this function, and the rainwater runs off, it's not captured, it's not stored, and the resulting, the crops grown in that soil are much more susceptible to periods without rain, and there's overall less water availability. When soil and water resources are degraded, agricultural productivity is low, the families are susceptible to climate shocks, and this keeps them in a cycle of emergency and recovery and poverty. The good news is that the ability of soils to capture and store rainwater can be restored with good agricultural practices that build soil organic matter, protect, and protect the soils from erosion. In Catholic Relief Services and in our programs, we call this Water Smart Agriculture Practices. In one of our programs from 2016 to 2020, we monitored a network of farms where we tested these practices with farmers on their farms and side by side plots comparing the water smart agriculture practices with conventional practices. Within that period, a very severe drought in 2018 hit. It affected the whole region and we found that these soils during a very severe drought could store up to 26 percent more moisture during this drought period. And on average yields were 39 percent higher. In a drought year, this can make the difference between a family producing enough food to still meet their household needs or being in an emergency situation and having to rely on food aid. And also, we found it in good years, yields were also much higher because of these good management practices. Meaning that farmers could produce and sell more surplus and improve their income savings. And this also contributes to greater overall resilience. And just to note also that these practices also sequester more carbon in agricultural systems, which also has climate mitigation impacts. Now this alone, soil management alone, is not going to bring farmers out of poverty. We need to build on this foundation of good natural resource management with market access, diversification with more lucrative crops access to financing and, of course, increasing opportunities for women and youth. But all this needs to be built on this foundation of restoring soil and water resources so that we can be successful with these other types of development interventions. We're working to scale these practices in the Dry Corridor by working with a network of partners, including other local NGOs, government agencies. And one of the main limitations is that farmers have is gaining access to any type of agricultural extension services. So, we're really working to strengthen local extension. We're using a hybrid model that combines field training with digital extension tools and radio for mass communication to reach more people. And we know from some of our work and some of the work I'm doing with Sarah and Ana to look at the adoption of these practices, that when farmers do have access to extension services and training, they are in fact applying and adopting the practices. Sarah - Thank you, Marie, for providing the detail about some of the programs that you're seeing and that the evidence, these are evidence-based practices that are actually making a difference for the farmers that you are working with. I want to turn to Ana now and shift the conversation just a little bit. You know, Marie was laying out potential ways to turn things around and ways that life could become better for farmers. But what do you see as some of the consequences of inaction if we don't keep on with these programs and if programs are not scaled up to help smallholder farmers and others in the region. What do you think will be the consequences of that for poverty and food security in Central America? Ana - Sarah, that's a great question. Again, it's hard to give an exact answer on what would be the exact results of this. But there was this one thing that popped into my mind immediately, which is an accelerated flow of people migrating both within the region and towards the U.S. as well. Because people are seeking to escape these harsh living conditions, right? So, food insecurity will get worse, particularly in susceptible areas like the Dry Corridor where farmers are already struggling with this climate unpredictability. Rural families will also face greater challenges in meeting their basic nutritional needs. potentially leading to malnutrition and health crises. And even in urban areas, high prices and food shortage will disproportionately impact the most vulnerable communities, exacerbating inequality. Now, in addition to that, failing to act now will result in a greater cost in the future. And I believe another concerning consequence of inaction is the displacement of young people. And here I must add that right now Honduras has a demographic difference and we're not taking advantage of it. Many young individuals migrate in search of better opportunities, leading to the so-called brain drain. Or they even leave the country without any further motivation to help the country while they're abroad. So, with insufficient opportunities for education, for employment, we are risking youth becoming trapped in cycles of poverty. We're losing people that are capable of helping the country, and this will undermine long term community development and stability. Norbert - Ana, thanks so much for providing that context for the need for action and what consequences of inaction might be. You know, this has been a challenging conversation. We've talked about a number of things that are going wrong or where some of the challenges are. I actually want to turn the conversation to see some ways forward. And so, what are some of the positive changes that can take place? And, you know, Catholic Relief Services is doing some really important work. And I want to hear more about that. But I also want to hear about it in the context of what could happen if policy makers, government officials or decision makers in the international development institutions, if they changed policy or created new opportunities. What would you say are still some really pressing needs and where would you focus money and efforts to get the biggest impact or hope for the most people? Marie? Let's start with you. Marie - I want to emphasize again just the importance of investing in land and soil restoration as a foundation, as a strategy to build climate resilience. Now, we really need programs that are also creating economic opportunities and developing markets for farmers, but this needs to be linked with land restoration initiatives in order to ensure resilience and the sustainability of these activities. You know, when land and soil is restored, these practices aren't just implemented, and they're not just implemented at the farm level, but like over whole landscapes. This improves productivity, but also water availability for households, urban areas, and other activities. So even programs that promote irrigation technologies as a solution for the Dry Corridor, which is really like a way forward also. These need to be linked with the land restoration activities because this water needs to come from somewhere. So, we need to ensure that we're protecting our water resources and ensuring the availability for these other activities, or else we won't be successful. And they also won't be sustainable. We also really need to invest more in capacity-building aspects of our development programming. Not just focusing on asset replacement, which is necessary, but we need a good balance of investing in capacity building. This means farmers, agronomists, agricultural institutes to strengthen the extension systems and improving access to information around soil and climate, for improved decision making and management of these resources in order to also take action to reduce overall risk and climate risk in the area. So really building the capacity in the management practices that can in the long term reduce dependencies on external aid. Norbert - Ana, what about you? Ana- I think Marie summed up everything very well. But if I had to rephrase what she said in my own words, I would focus a lot on infrastructure development. Both physical and digital. This is essential. Investing in better roads, market access, but also digital connectivity would enable the population of farmers and entrepreneurs to reach bigger markets, fostering economic growth and development. And I'll also include improvements to infrastructure to be climate resilient and friendly to the environment. And going along to what she said about capacity development, I would also give focus on improving productive skills. Many companies in the region and especially in Honduras highlight the limited ability of the workforce to generate high value opportunities as a major constraint. So, concrete advances in competitiveness and innovation are needed in this sense. And I would wrap this wish list saying that for any policy to be considered if you want to talk to them to any government official or international organization, there has to be more focus and importance on inclusive policies. They have to engage local communities, they have to engage women, they have to engage youth in decision making processes. Basically, we want to ensure that these groups have voice in policy development. Sarah - Great. Thanks Ana. I want to, you know, turn this attention now to thinking about research. So, Duke is an institution where research is one of our primary functions. And thinking broadly about the impacts of climate change on agriculture and food security, where do you see the biggest need for additional research? And maybe to think about in another way which research questions if they were answered could be transformative? And how might academic research and researchers partner with organizations like Catholic Relief Services and others doing work in the field in order to answer some of these questions about practical applications that could help on the ground? And Ana, let's begin with you. Ana - Thank you for your question, Sarah. I would say our work with Catholic Relief Services has given us a lot of ideas on how we can improve in this sense. For instance, we need to understand how different technologies and practices performed in diverse kinds of conditions are crucial. What factors influence farmers' adoption of one technology more than another, considering the heterogeneity of each farmer and each living condition. But I would also be interested in exploring how climate change impacts household dynamics and whether there is a shift in roles. Men and women, right? If there is an increase in women empowerment within the agricultural context once they're exposed to these new technologies. How they make the decision on what to eat, how much to eat, what to produce, what not to produce. And I would say also, and this is my Santa wish list of the things I want to research about as well is understanding their desire to migrate even under these improved conditions. Like even though we're giving them this technology, it's like what is actually keeping these farmers that we are helping stay and keep doing or producing what they're doing in involving improving with time. Sarah - Marie, what about you? Marie - Yes, so from the development organization perspective, collaborations with academic institutes can really provide an opportunity for us to go beyond the scope of the kind of monitoring and learning that we build into our development projects. And bring in different levels of expertise, and research methods. So definitely something that can be beneficial for our programming. I see two main areas that require more research and where, you know, collaborating with academic organizations or institutes could be, could be a benefit. The first is really around the whole biophysical type research on agricultural systems. Practices to accelerate land restoration, drought tolerant crops and varieties to improve resilience to climate and market shocks. And calibrating and applying different tools for decision making around soils and water resources. And then the other area is really research in development. So, what's the effectiveness of our different delivery methods of our programs, our extension models, and strategies for reaching and including women and youth. Understanding the scaling strategy and how we can reach more farmers. And also, translating these results and program impacts into policy recommendations. So really, research that informs our development strategy to ensure that programs are really leading to transformative, sustainable change and improvements in livelihoods and food security and resilience. Norbert - I really do appreciate hearing this. As a researcher, it's, it's so easy to get, sort of, how do I get the next paper in a journal. But what you're talking about are research questions that really move the development efforts forward. That are, sort of, informed by what's happening on the ground to make sure that the work that you all are doing is the work that leads to the best outcomes for the largest number of people. BIOS Marie-Soleil Turmel is the Scientific Advisor for the Catholic Relief Services Water Smart Agriculture Platform in the Latin America and Caribbean Region. She is an Agronomist/Soil Scientist with 15 years of experience conducting research and extension to promote soil health, productivity, and climate resilience of smallholder farming systems in Latin America. Before joining CRS, she worked as a Research Scientist for the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) and Bioversity International. Marie holds a Ph.D. in Soil Science from McGill University and an M.Sc. in Agronomy from the University of Manitoba.   Ana Andino is a PhD student in Public Policy with a concentration in Economics at Duke University's Sanford School of Public Policy. Prior to joining Duke, Ana worked on development issues in Honduras with the Inter-American Development Bank and Honduran Ministry of Finance. She is now an integral part of the Duke team collaborating with Catholic Relief Services. Her research interests are in political economy, climate migration, food insecurity, and international development. She holds a Master of Science in local economic development from the London School of Economics. 

Join host Norbert Wilson and co-host Kerilyn Schewel in the latest episode of the Leading Voices in Food podcast as they dive deep into the world of small-scale fisheries with two distinguished guests: Nicole Franz from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and John Virdin from Duke University's Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment, and Sustainability. Discover the significant role small-scale fisheries play in food security, economic development, and community livelihoods. Learn about the unique challenges these fisheries face, and how community-led climate adaptation alongside top-down national policies can help build resilience. This episode also highlights collaborative efforts between academia and organizations like FAO, painting a comprehensive picture of the state and future of small-scale fisheries. Interview Summary Kerilyn - So, Nicole, let's begin with you. Why is your work at the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization focused on small-scale fisheries and fishing communities? And could you share with us how they are different from fisheries more broadly? What's unique about them and their role in food production? Nicole - Yes. Let me start with the latter question. And I think the first thing is to clarify actually what are small-scale fisheries, no? Because sometimes if you think about small-scale fisheries, what most people will have in mind is probably that of a man in a small boat fishing. But in reality, it's a sector that is much more diverse. There are, for example, women in Indonesia that are collecting clams by foot. Foot fishers. Or we have examples from small-scale fisheries that are fishing boats in Norway, which are comparably small, but if you compare them, for example, with how small-scale fishing looks in a place like Mozambique, it's a very different scale. But all of that, however, is comprised in what we understand as small-scale fisheries. It is also important to understand that when we talk about small-scale fisheries in FAO, we don't only limit it to what is happening in the water, the harvesting part, but we also include what happens once the fish is out of the water. So, once it's processed, then, and when it's traded. So, so it's a whole supply chain that is connected to that small-scale fisheries production that we understand as being small-scale fisheries. And with Duke University, with John who is present here, and other colleagues and other colleagues from World Fish, we did a global study where we tried to estimate the global contributions of small-scale fisheries to sustainable development. And what we found was that at least 40 percent of the global catch is actually coming from inland and marine small-scale fisheries. And that's, that's enormous. That's a huge, huge amount. More important almost is that, that 90 percent of all the people that are employed in capture fisheries are in small-scale fisheries. And that is the human dimension of it. And that's why the community dimension is so important for the work. Because it is that big amount of people, 61 million people, that are employed in the value chains. And in addition to that, we estimated that there are about 53 million people that are actually engaging in small-scale fisheries for subsistence. So, if we consider those people that are employed in small-scale fisheries, plus those that are engaging for subsistence, and all their household members, we're actually talking about close to 500 million people that depend at least partially on small-scale fisheries for their livelihoods. We also looked at the economic dimensions of small-scale fisheries, and we found that the value from the first sale of small-scale fishery products amounts to 77 billion. So, these numbers are important. They show the importance of small-scale fisheries in terms of their production, but also in terms of the livelihood [00:05:00] dimension, in terms of the economic value that they generate. And, last but not least, we also looked at the nutritional value from small-scale fisheries. And we estimated that the catch from small-scale fisheries would be able to supply almost 1 billion women globally with 50 percent of the recommended omega 3 fatty acid intake. So, I think with all of these numbers, hopefully, I can convey why the focus on small-scale fish is, in the context of food security and poverty eradication in particular, is of fundamental importance. Kerilyn - Thanks, Nicole. That's really helpful to get a kind of global picture. If I could follow up to ask, what regions of the world are small-scale fisheries more common, or do economies rely on them? And in what regions do you see them disappearing? Are they common in countries like the US, for example? Well, they're certainly more common in what is often considered as a Global South. In Asia in particular, we encountered the largest total numbers, absolute numbers, in terms of people involved in terms of production. But also in Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean. In the Pacific, obviously, they play a crucial role. They are more and more disappearing in the US, for example, in Europe. We see that it is a livelihood that is no longer very common. And one of the features we see there that it's an aging sector, it's a shrinking sector, for a number of reasons. But they still define the characteristic of certain areas where they really are part of the identity and of the local culture, even in the U.S. or in many, many places in Europe. Norbert - Nicole, this is really fascinating. Thank you for sharing this broad overview of what's happening and who are small-scale fishers. What are some of the common challenges that these small-scale fishers and fisheries face? And what is FAO's response to those challenges? Nicole - Well, where to start? There are so many challenges. I think one fundamental challenge that is common across all regions is securing access to fishing grounds. But not only to fishing grounds, but also to the coastal areas where operations, where they land the boats, where they, where the process of fish, where the fishing villages and communities are located. In many areas around the world, we see expansion of tourism, expansion of urban areas and coastal areas. The increase of other industries that are competing for the space now, and that are often stronger economically more visible than small-scale fisheries. So, the competition over space in those areas is quite an issue. But there are also many challenges that are more outside of the fishing activity directly. For example, often small-scale fishing communities lack access to services. We had basic services such as education or health services, social protection. And in many cases, women are particularly disadvantaged in relation to access to these services. For example, women that are involved in harvesting or in processing of fish in small-scale fisheries, they often do not know where to leave their children while they are at work because there's no childcare facility in many of these villages. And there are 45 million women that are engaged in small-scale fisheries around the world. Another set of challenges relates to the value chains and the markets. Often there's limited infrastructure to connect to markets. The processing and storage facilities are not adequate to bring the product to the market in a state that allows it to then fetch good prices and to benefit from the value chain. Often small-scale fishers and fish workers are also not well organized. So, they become more subject to power imbalances along the value chain where they have to be price takers. Now they have to accept what is offered. That also relates often to a lack of transparency in relation to market information. And of course, then we have another set of challenges that are coming from climate change that are becoming more and more important. And from other types of disasters also. One thing that brings together all these challenges, or makes them worse, is often the lack of representative structures and also institutional structures that allow for participation in relevant decision making or management processes. So that small-scale fishers and fish workers don't even have an opportunity to flag their needs or to propose solutions. So, FAO has facilitated a process to develop Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-scale Fisheries in the Context of Food security and Poverty Eradication. Quite a mouthful of a name. In short, we call them small-scale fisheries guidelines. In which all the major challenges in a way are compiled in one document together with guidance on how to address them. And these guidelines are the result of a participatory development process. So, they are really informed by the involvement of fishing communities from around the world, but also other stakeholders. And they have been agreed on and have been endorsed by the almost 200 members of the FAO. We are now working with countries, with the small-scale fishing communities around the world, with other partners, including Duke University, to help implement these small-scale fisheries guidelines. Norbert - Oh, this is really fascinating and it's important work. I'm intrigued with the participatory process. How are small-scale fisher organizations involved in this? Are you working with different organizations? Or is this more individuals who are just interested in this issue coming to the fore? This is through organizations at all levels. Be it at the national level where we are, for example, facilitating the formation of new women organizations in a number of African countries. Be it at the regional level, in particular in Africa, there are existing structures in the context of the African union, which has established so called non state actor platforms for fisheries and aquaculture, which we are supporting in order to bring their voice into the processes and to facilitate peer learning. And then there's a number of global social movements and producer organizations for small-scale fisheries that we are working with and using them as a facilitator to involve as many as possible. And gather as much insight that is coming from the membership of those organizations to then bring into global, regional, national processes from our side. Norbert - This is really important to hear how different forms of governance and at different levels are playing a part in developing these guidelines. Thank you for sharing that, Nicole. I'd like to turn to you, John. You have more than 20 years of experience in studying and advising government policies to regulate human use of the oceans. With a particular focus on marine conservation practices. How has your thinking about marine conservation changed over the last 20 years? John - Yeah, it's changed a bit. As you mentioned, my interest in work has been on ocean conservation and how it can alleviate poverty. A lot of times that has meant managing fisheries to address poverty. And I think in the past, that meant that I was really focused on what governments could do to increase the efficiency of fisheries. The economic efficiency. How do we increase incomes, how do you increase revenues for communities? All very important, but for all the reasons that Nicole mentioned, I spend a lot more time now thinking about the process rather than the outcomes, and thinking about what institutions are in place, or can be created, to help empower small-scale fishing communities to have much more of a voice in the decisions that affect them. In how the resources are used. How the space is used. And Nicole outlined really well a lot of the challenges that are facing communities from increased industrialization of ocean use to the squeeze from climate change and the effect on resources. And even the fact that climate change may be driving people to the oceans. I mean, as farms and agricultures maybe fail or face challenges, oceans are often open access, and can even be a sink for people to make a livelihood. And so, yet more pressures coming from outside these fisheries. How can fishers have a greater voice in making the decisions that impact them and safeguarding their livelihoods? Norbert - Thank you for that. I'm interested in understanding how do these fisher folks, who are trying to organize and are organizing, how does that interact with sort of larger markets? I mean, I would imagine a number of these folks are catching fish and other seafood that goes into global markets. What's the interaction or challenges that may happen there? John - As Nicole mentioned, because small-scale fisheries are so diverse you have markets in many places. These may be located near an urban center where you can have easy access. You can get fresh fish in a cooler and put it on a plane and off it goes to an export market. We found that, what may be surprised us, is a significant number of small-scale fishers are exporting in some cases. So, then that can be challenging because you might get higher prices, which is a good thing. But it might drive, for example, more fishing effort. It might drive higher levels of exploitation. It might change traditional practices, traditional rules for fisheries. It might really change how fishers organize in a given place. So, the access to export markets, even say an island setting, has kind of scrambled past fisheries management in some places and can be an outside force. Kerilyn - John and Nicole, I want to ask you both a question now about painting a picture of these communities that you're working with. You both mentioned how diverse small-scale fisheries can be. I was wondering if you could just share what one community in particular looks like that you've worked with? What are the challenges that a particular community faces, or alternatively, where do you see things actually working well? So Nicole, could I ask you to respond first? Nicole - I'm working more with global processes and the global level. So, through that, I have the privilege of working with representatives from many, many communities. So maybe what I can share is the feedback that I'm getting through that, in terms of the change that we can observe, and that is affecting fishing communities around the world. I think one thing that is being brought up as a concern by many is what I mentioned before. It's a process of aging in fishing communities and often a lack of capacity to retain young people in the sector. And that has different reasons. Now there are all of these challenges that small-scale fisheries have to face and that are difficult to overcome. So, that often drives people, in particular young men, to leave the communities. Or within the communities, to look for other alternative livelihoods now and not to take on the skills of fishermen or getting engaged in small-scale fisheries more broadly. So, in some cases, yes, it's not only other activities within the community, but really leaving the community and leaving in some cases also the country. What we see there is that sometimes people that have the skills, maybe still as a fisher, they have tried to fish. So, they have a knowledge of fishing. They emigrate out into other countries. And in some cases they are then hired into industrial fisheries where they work on industrial boats that go out fishing for longer periods of time. But where they at times end up in situations that can be called slave labor, basically, that are subject to serious violations of human rights. And that is in a way generated by this vulnerability to the poverty that is still there in those communities. The lack of being able to make a living, a decent work in the fishing community. So, that is something that we have seen is happening. We have also seen that in some cases, there's an involvement of fishers into say more illegal activities, be it in drug trafficking, be it also into the trafficking of people. I'm thinking even about the Mediterranean. I'm working out of Italy, Rome. We have a lot of immigration from North African countries, for example, coming through that route. And oftentimes it happens that the transport of migrants is actually carried out by fishers and their boats because they have the skill to navigate the sea. And they make a better living by transporting illegal migrants than going fishing. So, those are some of the challenges we hear. And the other one is there in relation to what is now a concept that is getting more and more traction. It's often known as the blue economy, which is, in a way, looking at the ocean as the last frontier for economic development. And that includes on the one hand, the expansion of previously existing industries, such as tourism. But also the expansion of newer sectors such as alternative energy production. Think wind parks now in coastal areas. So, what happens here is that in many cases, this adds again, additional pressure on the available maritime space. In the water and on the land. The expansion of marine aquaculture is another example. So, that also is something that we hear is becoming an issue for small-scale fishing communities to defend the space that they need to maintain their lifestyle. Kerilyn - John, is there anything you'd like to add on this question of how fisheries are changing? John - Very, very briefly. Taking the example in West Africa where I've spent some time over the years, you certainly have some communities there where it actually doesn't seem as if the fisheries are changing as much in the sense it's quite static and stagnant. And this could be caused by a lot of the reasons that Nicole mentioned, but the community, the economy, the fisheries aren't growing. People, young people may be leaving for a number of reasons, but it doesn't have to be that way either. I mean, there are positive examples. I was in Liberia last week, and there, from the numbers that the government has, small-scale fishing communities are growing. The number of fishers are growing. They've actually made a conscious effort to protect a certain area of the ocean just for small-scale fisheries. And to prohibit trawling and to give the communities more space to grow and operate in the 20 years since the conflict ended there. So, again, it doesn't have to be sort of stagnant or grinding on in some of these communities as they cope with competition for resources, for example, competition for space from others. Where they were given that space, in some cases in Liberia, they've grown. That may have its own challenges but. Kerilyn - Interesting. In the back of my mind, when thinking about these communities and aging and migration of younger generations away from these livelihoods, you know, as someone who studies the relationship between migration and development, I think it's a common trend where, you know, as countries develop, young people leave traditional economic activities. They get more educated, they move to cities, they move abroad. To what degree is this somehow just part of these countries' development? Should we expect young people to be leaving them? And to what degree might we think differently about development in a way that would enable more young people to stay? And I think, John, you mentioned a really interesting point about how protecting the space For these small-scale fisheries to operate is one thing that seems to have kept people engaged in this livelihood. I'd be curious if there's other things that come up for you. Other ways of thinking about enhancing the capability to stay in small-scale fishing livelihoods. John - Sure, and I'd be curious what Nicole's seeing from her perspective. I think, to some extent, it's a different question if small-scale fisheries are economically viable. And so, what I think Nicole and I are referring to in many cases is where for a lot of these external pressures upon them, they may not be as viable as they once were. And that has its own push on people, whereas where fishers are empowered, they have more of a voice in what happens to the fisheries and controlling those spaces and resources, and it can be more economically viable in these fisheries. That presents a different set of choices for young people then. So that's where we've really focused is: okay, what is the process by which small-scale fishing communities have their voices heard more, have much more of a say and much more power in the use of the fisheries, the use of the coastal areas, the things that affect those fisheries and their livelihoods? And then we can see what those choices might look like. But Nicole, I'm not sure if that's consistent with what you've seen in a number of places. Nicole - Yes, and maybe to also rebalance a bleak picture I painted before. Like John said, there are obviously good examples. I think an important condition is probably a linkage to markets. Non-economic viability in many ways does play a role. And there are examples of how that can happen in different ways. For example, in Morocco, the country has made quite a significant investment to build a whole series of ports for small-scale fisheries. Specifically, along the entire coastline of Morocco where they are providing a port that is not just a landing site for small-scale fisheries, but it provides like a system of integrated services. There's an auction hall. So, the fish comes in, it's immediately kind of weighted. They get the information, the label for what they have brought in, then it goes into an auction that has set rules and everybody is tied to. But in that same area, for example, there's also a bank or there is an office that helps with the access to social protection services, for example. So, it's a whole integrated service center, and that really makes a difference to help make the sector more efficient. But at the same time, also really keep the tradition. So, it's not only economic efficiency, but by having all these different centers, it allows to maintain many people employed and to also maintain the characteristics of each of those different lending sites. That's one example. I was in Korea last year and there, they were doing something similar. They are reviving some of their traditional fishing villages where they are also investing in those fishing communities and providing them with funding to set up, for example, restaurants that are run directly by those involved in the fishery. Those are particular places that are close to cities. In my case, I was in Busan. So, it's very closely connected to the consumers now that come out there. They are focusing on certain products in these villages that they are famous for traditionally. They have little shops and they're starting e-commerce for some of the products. So, the way they package, and the label has become much, much wider than before. So again, that has revived a bit those communities. In Italy, it's a country that's famous for its food, you know. And they are in the region that's called the Amalfi coast. There's a tiny village and it's famous for the production of a value-added product made from tiny sardines that are fished by the small-scale fisheries boats. And they are processed in a very particular way. And there is like a label of geographic origin of this product, and it can only come from that village. And it has a high price and has it's like a high-end product, so to say. And in a way these are also approaches that provide dignity to this profession. And a sense of pride which is really important and should not be underestimated in also increasing the willingness, for example, of young people to be part of that and maintain the viability of the sector. John – I'd like to just add, I think that's a really important point on the dignity and pride and the importance of these fisheries in so many places and cultures. I mean, I'll never forget talking to a minister of finance in one country and starting to try to make the economic case for supporting small-scale fisheries. He cut me off in about 30 seconds and started talking about growing up fishing in the village and going back home for vacations, and just the importance to the entire community of fishing to him and just how much it was a part of the fabric of the culture. Kerilyn - I love that. That does seem so important and wonderful to hear those very specific examples that do give some hope. It's not just a bleak future. Norbert - You know, it's great to hear how government policy is helping shape and reshape these fisheries in a way that allow for economic viability and also these are opportunities to connect communities to these traditions. And so, I find that really fascinating. I want to kind of push a little bit beyond that and bring back the idea of how to deal with climate that was mentioned earlier. And also change our focus from government policy to sort of what's happening within these small-scale fisheries and fishery organizations. So Nicole, a lot of your work focuses on building more inclusive policy processes and stakeholder engagement. And so, from your perspective, how does community-led climate adaptation, rather than top down adaptation agendas, lead to different outcomes? Nicole - Well, I think one way that seems quite obvious, how community-led adaptation can lead to different outcomes is simply that in that case, the traditional and the indigenous knowledge that is within those communities will be considered much more strongly. And this is something that can be really critical to crafting solutions for that very site-specific context. Because the impact of the climate change can be very different in every region and every locality not due to that specific environment that it's encountering there. And holding the knowledge and being able to observe the changes and then adapt to them is something that certainly a community-based approach has an advantage over something that would be a coming from a more centralized top down, a little bit more one-size-fits-all approach. And this can then imply little things like, for example, if the water temperature changes, we see a change in the fish behavior. Now we see how certain stocks start to move to different environments and others are coming in. So, the communities obviously need to adapt to that. And they do that automatically. Now, if it changes, they adapt their gear, they adapt to the new species that is there. So, in many cases, there are solutions that are already happening, and adaptations that are already happening that may not carry that label, that name. But if you look at it, it is really what is happening, no? Or you can see in some cases, that for example, there are initiatives that are coming also spontaneously from the communities to replant mangrove forests, where you can observe that there is a rising seawater level that is threatening the communities and where they have their houses, where they have their daily lives. Now, you can see that through NGOs and often there is support projects for that. But you can also see it happening more spontaneously when communities observe that change. So, the top-down approaches often they lack that more nuanced, site-specific considerations in their approaches and the consideration of that specific knowledge. On the other hand, it needs to be said though, that the top-down approaches can also play an important role. For example, countries develop their national adaptation plans. And those plans are usually, you know, developed at a higher level, at the central level. And often fisheries and aquaculture are not necessarily included in those plans. So that is something where the top-down level can play a very important role and really make a difference for small-scale fisheries by ensuring that fisheries and aquaculture are included in a sector. So, I guess that in the end, as always, it's not black and white. No, it's something that we need to take into account both of it and have any climate change adaptation approach to small-scale fisheries being grounded in both. And have a way to bridge the top down and the bottom-up approaches. Norbert - I really like this idea of bridging between the top down and the bottom-up approaches, understanding the local knowledge that's there. I would imagine that's also knowledge that when used to make decisions makes it easier for people to stick with those decisions, because it's a part of their voice. It's who they are. And then the other side, it's critical to make sure that those plans are a part of a larger national move, because if the government is not involved, if those higher-level decision makers are not involved, they can easily overlook the needs of those communities. I really appreciate hearing that. I think sometimes we hear this tension. It needs to be one or the other. And you're making a really compelling point about how it has to be integrated. John, I'm really intrigued to see from your perspective. How do you see this top down versus bottom-up approach working in the work you've done? John - I'll do what I typically do is echo and agree with Nicole, but just to give an example that I love. I teach this one in my classes. There's an old paper by Bob Johannes, a marine ecologist. And the standard practice in managing fisheries as government scientists is you count the fish, you then set limits for them, often from the top down. And his point was in the case of Indonesia, if you look at the reef fisheries that go through most of the communities, one tool to assess the fish stocks is to do a visual census. You swim transects along the reefs and you count the fish. So, he did a back of the envelope estimate and he said, well, if you're going to do that through all the reefs throughout Indonesia, it would probably be finished in about 400 years. And that would give you one snapshot. So, he's saying you can't do this. You have to rely on the local knowledge in these communities. I don't want to romanticize traditional knowledge too much, but I just can't imagine how policies would effectively support adaptation in these communities without building upon this traditional ecological knowledge. Kerilyn - John, since coming to Duke from the World Bank, you've regularly collaborated with non-academic partners like the FAO as well as the UN environmental program. Can you tell us more about how your partnership with the FAO and your work with Nicole more specifically began? John - Sure. I think more than anything, I got really lucky. But when I first came to Duke, I started working with a colleague, Professor Xavier Basurto at the Marine Lab, who I think is one of the world's leading scholars on how communities come together to manage common resources like fish stocks. We organized a workshop at Duke on small-scale fisheries. We got talking to Nicole, invited her and some of her colleagues at FAO to that workshop, together with others, to think about a way forward for small-scale fisheries for philanthropy. And I think from those conversations started to see the need to build a global evidence base on how important these fisheries are in society. And Nicole could probably say it better, but from there, she and colleagues said, you know, maybe you all could work with us. We're planning to do this study to build this evidence base and maybe we could collaborate. And I think we're very fortunate that Duke gives the space for that kind of engaged research and allows us to do it. I don't think we knew how long it would be when we started, Nicole. But over five years and 800 researchers later, we - Javier, Nicole, myself, and so many others - concluded with this global study that we hope does have a little bit clearer picture on the role of these fisheries in society. Kerilyn - Nicole, from your side, what does an academic partner bring to the table? What's your motivation for partnering with someone like John or Duke University more specifically. Well, I think as FAO, we like to call ourselves a knowledge organization, but we're not an academic institution. We don't conduct research ourselves, no? So, we need to partner around that. We work with the policy makers though. So, one of our roles, in a way, is to build that. To broker and improve the science policy interface. So, this is why collaboration with academia research for us is very important. And what we experienced in this particular collaboration with Duke University to produce this study called Illuminating Hidden Harvest, the Contributions of Small-scale Fisheries to Sustainable Development was really that first we realized we have a shared vision, shared objectives. And I think that's fundamental. Now, you need to make sure that you have the same values, how you approach these things. And in this case, it aligned very well that we really wanted to take in a way, a human-centered and multidimensional approach to look at small-scale fisheries. And then it was also very important to understand what every partner brings to the table, no? The different strengths that we have. And then based on that, define the roles and what everybody's doing in a project. And the added value for us was certainly the capacity from the Duke University side to help develop the method that we develop for the country case studies that we conducted in 58 countries. And not only to develop that method, but then we had a postdoc at Duke University for this project, who was actually then engaging with all of the people. People in these 58 countries. And, and she was. coaching them in that methodology, actually in three languages, which was quite amazing. It was very, very thorough. We could not have done that. And we had a lot of other students from Duke University that helped us once we had the data gathered. To then screen that data, harmonize that data, clean that data, obviously under the leadership of John, Xavier and other colleagues, no? So that was really something that was adding a lot of value and actually also helped us to get to know a lot of the students from Duke. And some of those then ended up also becoming consultants working with us more broadly on small-scale fisheries. So that was certainly great, great value for FAO as collaboration. BIOS Nicole Franz, Equitable Livelihoods Team Leader, Fisheries and Aquaculture Division, Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN. Nicole is a development economist with 18 years of experience in intergovernmental organizations. She holds a Master in International Cooperation and Project Design from University La Sapienza, Rome and a Master in Economic and Cultural Cooperation and Human Rights in the Mediterranean Region. From 2003 to 2008 she was a consultant for the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). In 2009-10 she was Fishery Planning Analyst at the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in Paris, focusing on fisheries certification. Since 2011 she works for the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Division where she coordinates the implementation of the Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty Eradication (SSF Guidelines) with a focus on inclusive policy processes and stakeholder empowerment. Since 2021 she leads the Equitable Livelihoods team.  John Virdin is director of the Oceans Program at the Duke University Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability. He has a total of over twenty years' experience in studying and advising government policies to regulate human use of the oceans, particularly marine conservation policies to reduce poverty throughout the tropics. His focus has been largely on managing fisheries for food and livelihoods, expanding to broader ocean-based economic development policies, coastal adaptation and more recently reducing ocean plastic pollution. He directs the Oceans Program at the Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability, aiming to connect Duke University's science and ideas to help policymakers solve ocean sustainability problems. He has collaborated in this effort with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization and the United Nations Environment Program, as well as regional organizations such as the Abidjan Convention secretariat, the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States, the Sub-Regional Fisheries Commission of West Africa and the Parties to the Nauru Agreement for tuna fisheries management in the Western Pacific. He co-created and teaches an introductory course for undergraduate students to understand the role of ocean policy in helping solve many of society's most pressing development challenges on land. His work has been published in books, edited volumes and a number of professional journals, including Nature Ecology and Evolution, Ecosystem Services, Environment International, Fish and Fisheries and Marine Policy, as well as contributing to China Dialogue, The Conversation, the Economist Intelligence Unit, and The Hill.    

What are members of Congress saying about defense aviation? Congressional reporter Max Cohen spoke with Rep. Austin Scott (R-Ga.) to break down the key issues at play as lawmakers, the Defense Department and the private sector strive to maintain a first-class aero defense fleet. Check out Max's full story here. Want more in-depth daily coverage from Congress? Subscribe to our free Punchbowl News AM newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this Tuesday edition of Sid & Friends in the Morning, we mourn the murder over the weekend of six of the Israeli hostages that were being held in Gaza, killed execution style by Hamas terrorists just as the heroic IDF was about to rescue them from captivity. Once again, all fingers of blame are being pointed directly at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for allowing this war in the Middle East to continue, when the fact of the matter is that it is Hamas and its savage leaders who have declined every ceasefire agreement to date. Yehuda Honickmen, Curtis Sliwa, Dov Hikind, Jorge Masvidal, David Friedman and Joyce Kaufman join Sid on this Tuesday installment of Sid & Friends in the Morning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey CX Nation,In this week's episode of The CXChronicles Podcast #241 we welcomed Lynn Schlesinger, Chief Customer Experience Officer (CXO) at Forbes based in New York City. Lynn has 20+ years of experience developing and executing strategies to drive revenue and market cap. Expertise building and leading high-performing B2B + D2C cross-functional marketing teams for global matrixed organizations and lean fast growing companies. The Forbes brand today reaches more than 94 million people worldwide with its business message each month through its magazines and 37 licensed local editions around the globe, Forbes.com, TV, conferences, research, social and mobile platforms. Forbes Media's brand extensions include conferences, real estate, education, financial services, and technology license agreements.  In this episode, Lynn and Adrian chat through the Four CX Pillars: Team, Tools, Process & Feedback. Plus share some of the ideas that her team think through on a daily basis to build world class customer & marketing focused experiences.**Episode #241 Highlight Reel:**1. Building a customer experience that reaches 94 million people worldwide 2. Having a "lean and mean" team at Forbes to drive success 3. Leveraging employee feedback to build a culture that thrives  4. CXO's act as conductors in their business to drive change & connect dots 5. Why your teams must be diverse & come from various backgrounds Click here to learn more about Lynn SchlesingerClick here to learn more about ForbesHuge thanks to Lynn for coming on The CXChronicles Podcast and featuring her work and efforts in pushing the marketing, customer experience & customer success space into the future.If you enjoy The CXChronicles Podcast, stop by your favorite podcast player hit the follow button and leave us a review today.For our Spotify friends, click here to make sure you are following CXC & please leave a 5 star review so we can find new listeners & members of our community.For our Apple friends, same deal -- click here to follow CXCP and leave us a review letting folks know why you love our customer focused content.You know what would be even better?Go tell one of your friends or teammates about CXC's content,  our strategic partners (Hubspot, Intercom, Zendesk, Forethought AI, Freshworks, TimeToReply & Ascendr) + they can learn more about our CX/CS/RevOps services & please invite them to join the CX Nation!Are you looking to learn more about the world of Customer Experience, Customer Success & Revenue Operations?Click here to grab a copy of my book "The Four CX Pillars To Grow Your Business Now" available on Amazon or the CXC website.For you non-readers, go check out the CXChronicles Youtube channel to see our customer & employee focused business content. Reach Out To CXC Today!Support the Show.Contact CXChronicles Today Tweet us @cxchronicles Check out our Instagram @cxchronicles Click here to checkout the CXC website Email us at info@cxchronicles.com Remember To Make Happiness A Habit!!

It's an all-female NOW roundtable this week with Journey elders Summer Friesen and Krista Barre and staff member Betsy Raney joining host Suzie Lind. Together, they discuss their individual experiences and journeys as women in church leadership. TIMESTAMPS Just listen, people. It's all great.* * With no men at this week's table, the need to guide our listeners through the banter and foolery has been eliminated. Go figure: Female perspective leads to thoughtfulness and maturity. - - - - Have a question or comment for the NOW team? Join the conversation by texting us at +1 615 861 9503. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/journeychurch/support

This is The Briefing, a daily analysis of news and events from a Christian worldview.Part I (00:13 - 10:06)SCOTUS Takes Up Case on Transgender Youth: SCOTUS Will Hand Down Ruling Next Year on Constitutionality of One of the Biggest Issues of Our AgeA surgeon outed a Texas hospital for treating trans kids. Now he faces federal charges. by USA Today (Nicole Russell)Part II (10:06 - 12:57)Democrats' Ad Campaign Targets SCOTUS: The Future of the Supreme Court is On the Line in Every ElectionOn Dobbs Anniversary, Democrats Look to Make the Court a Campaign Issue by The New York Times (Nick Corasaniti)Part III (12:57 - 14:44)Democrats are Pumping Enormous Money into Abortion Push: The Future of the Democrats' Platform is Death Backed By Big FundsAbortion rights interests plow money into US election races by Reuters (Stephanie Kelly)Part IV (14:44 - 26:03)What Does It Mean to be a Voice of Libertarianism? The Life and Legacy of David Boaz Raises Big IssuesDavid Boaz, a Leading Voice of Libertarianism, Dies at 70 by The New York Times (Sam Roberts)Sign up to receive The Briefing in your inbox every weekday morning.Follow Dr. Mohler:X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeFor more information on The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, go to sbts.edu.For more information on Boyce College, just go to BoyceCollege.com.To write Dr. Mohler or submit a question for The Mailbox, go here.