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AUSTIN, Texas - Dan Diorio is senior director of state policy for the Data Center Coalition. Via a zoom, Diorio recently gave an update to the Rio Grande Guardian International News Service on the legislation he is tracking in Austin. He was joined on the zoom by Guillermo Aguilar of Blackstone Consultants.The Data Center Coalition's website explains what data centers are.“Data centers are the foundation of the digital infrastructure on which our modern society and economy are built. Data centers are physical locations that organizations use to house their critical applications and data. Anything that takes place online “in the cloud” is powered by a data center,” the coalition stated, on its website. “Data centers aggregate our collective computing demands – everything from sharing photos with friends and family to streaming our favorite shows to supporting online learning and storing important medical and financial information – efficiently and securely in one location.” The coalition added: “Previously, these types of computing resources were dispersed across businesses, which was far less efficient and secure. In 2010, nearly 80 percent of data center computing was done in smaller traditional computer centers, largely owned and operated by non-technology companies. By 2018, approximately 89 percent of data center computing took place in larger cloud data centers.”Diorio brings over 16 years of experience in state and federal government affairs and public policy. He began his career in the Massachusetts State Legislature where he served as legislative director to State Senator Scott P. Brown. Diorio followed Brown to Washington, DC, and the United States Senate where he worked as a Legislative Assistant handling a large portfolio of issues including energy and the environment, education, labor, immigration, and transportation.Diorio next handled state and federal government affairs for a Boston-based demand response provider. While there he helped form the Advanced Energy Management Alliance, a national trade association for demand response companies and end-users. Upon moving out west for sunshine and dry weather, Diorio covered election administration policy for the National Conference of State Legislatures.Diorio was also the vice president of legislative affairs for Colorado for the GoWest Credit Union Association. He advocated for credit unions and managed legislative campaigns in both Colorado and Wyoming. Most recently he was chief of staff of Strategic Affairs for C6-Zero, a start-up advanced manufacturing company, where he led public affairs, government affairs and organizational development.Diorio received his Bachelor of Arts in History from Boston College and has a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Colorado Denver. He lives in Denver with his wife and two children.On the zoom, Diorio spoke about the legislation his group is tracking and how some pieces of legislation related to data centers have good and bad parts to them.Together with Aguilar, Diorio spoke about the chances of South Texas landing major data center projects. Here is an audio recording of the zoom.Go to www.riograndeguardian.com to read the latest border news stories and watch the latest news videos.
In this episode, we talk with Dr. John R. Gerdy, founder of Music For Everyone (MFE), a Lancaster-based nonprofit that has invested over $6.5 million into local music education and community arts since 2006. Dr. Gerdy, who served as MFE's Executive Director until 2024, has a diverse background, including roles as Associate Commissioner of the Southeastern Conference and Legislative Assistant at the NCAA. A former All-American basketball player at Davidson College, he's also a lifelong musician, performing under the name Willie Marble and teaching music to children.Dr. Gerdy is the author of several books, including The Journey of an Old White Dude in the Age of Black Lives Matter and Lights on Lancaster, both released in 2023. In this conversation, he shares his passion for using music to build community and his experiences in both sports and the arts.
Floresville native Benjamin “BJ” Reed Jr. is set to serve as legislative assistant to Texas state Rep. Mike Schofield in the upcoming 89th session. The eldest of three brothers, Benjamin recently graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in government and a minor in communication studies; he has also served as an intern for the office of state Rep. Ryan Guillen, whose district includes Wilson County. “Benjamin is eager to serve the constituents of House District 132 and looks forward to contributing to this 89th upcoming legislative session,” Schofield said. District 132 is located in western...Article Link
Floresville native Benjamin “BJ” Reed Jr. is set to serve as legislative assistant to Texas state Rep. Mike Schofield in the upcoming 89th session. Benjamin is the son of Shannon and Ben Reed and the eldest of three brothers. Benjamin recently graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in government and a minor in communication studies; he has also served as an intern for the office of state Rep. Ryan Guillen, whose district includes Wilson County. “Benjamin is eager to serve the constituents of House District 132 and looks forward to contributing to this 89th upcoming...Article Link
Kurt Williams, Legislative Assistant, California Rifle & Pistol Association joins Rick to discuss California State Government and "variable ethics".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joe Hack spent 12 years as a senior advisor in both the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives, including more than six years as Chief of Staff to U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (NE).Prior to that, he worked for Senate Whip Jon Kyl as Communications Director and chief spokesman. Joe is also a veteran of the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served as Press Secretary and Legislative Assistant for Rep. J. Randy Forbes (VA-04). He began his career in the office of Senator George Voinovich (OH)During this episode of Joey Squared, we talk about The Alphabet People, our beloved LGBTQ+ community, and why they are not a monolith, nor should they be treated as one.We then talked at length about one of my favorite journalists, Nellie Bowles and her new book, Morning After the Revolution: Dispatches from the Wrong Side of History - and why it was such a romping good read.Nellie's collections of stories proved to be a wickedly funny treatise about the ideological capture of her former colleagues and editors at The New York Times. And Joey and I use her witty and engaging stories as a cursor to our discussions about the fringe left of my party, and how their narratives and messaging are being widely rejected by the majority of Americans today.I hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did. Watch Episode: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit truethirty.substack.com/subscribe
Send us a textDr. Tristan Colonius, DVM is the Chief Veterinary Officer and Deputy Director for Science Policy at FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine ( CVM - https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary ). Dr. Colonius previously worked in various positions at FDA, including as Deputy Chief of Staff to Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf and as an International Policy Analyst. During his career at FDA, Dr. Colonius has been working on numerous initiatives including the Animal and Veterinary Innovation Agenda, One Health, Intentional Genomic Alterations in animals, and zootechnical animal feed substances (ZAFS) among many other programs at CVM.Prior to joining FDA, Dr. Colonius held positions in the US Senate and US Department of Agriculture. Dr. Colonius came to the Hill as an American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Science and Technology fellow in 2012 in Senator Kirsten Gillibrand's (NY) office and worked to help pass the Agricultural Act of 2014 (the “Farm Bill”) renewal. Dr. Colonius then went to work for Senator Diane Feinstein, first as a Legislative Assistant and then as her Deputy Legislative Director. While in Senator Feinstein's office, Dr. Colonius worked on disaster preparedness, climate resiliency, emerging public health threats, homeland security, federal science policy, and animal welfare/conservation.Dr. Colonius holds a BA in Political Science and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Louisiana State University, as well as a Master of Public Administration from the University of Illinois.Important Episode LinkThe Animal and Veterinary Innovation Agenda - Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) - FDA - https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-supports-innovation-animal-biotechnology-veterinary-products-food-animals-through-new#FoodAndDrugAdministration #FDA #CenterForVeterinaryMedicine #OneHealth #TristanColonius #AnimalWelfare #PetMedicine #ConditionalApproval #SciencePolicy #AntimicrobialResistance #Zoonotic #Zoooses #GMO #RobertCaliff #KirstenGillibrand #DianeFeinstein #ProgressPotentialAndPossibilities #IraPastor #Podcast #Podcaster #ViralPodcast #STEM #Innovation #Technology #Science #ResearchSupport the show
Over the last 25 years, while the United States fought costly wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the People's Republic of China has been expanding its influence, its economic relationships, and even the reach of it's military. Michael Sobolik offers a sober look at the challenge China poses to the West and offers a strategy to guide America's response. Sobolik is an expert in the American and Chinese grand strategy, regional economic and security trends, America's alliance architecture in Asia and human rights. He served as a Legislative Assistant in the United States Senate, drafting legislation on China, Russia, India, Taiwan, North Korea, Cambodia, and strategic systems and missile defense from 2014 to 2019. He has been serving as a Senior Fellow in Indo-Pacific Studies for the American Foreign Policy Council (AFPC) since 2019. Sobolik hosts “Great Power Podcast,” AFPC's show about great power competition and U.S.-China relations. He is also the author of “Countering China's Great Game: A Strategy for American Dominance,” which explains China's growing threat to the global stage. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brad Dacus is president and founder of the Pacific Justice Institute. Their mission is to defend, without charge, the religious freedoms, parental rights, and other civil liberties of individuals who cannot defend themselves. Brad previously served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm and received his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas, School of Law. --America is running off the rails as it continues to advance an agenda that places transgenderism above true biology. Biological men are decimating women in sports. Those same men are using women's locker rooms, and when females complain, they are the ones that are sanctioned. Schools are taking action to prevent parents from knowing if their minor son or daughter is identifying differently at school than they are at home. Even more tragic is when a family has their child taken away from them by Child Protective Services because the family refuses to allow permanent, bodily mutilating surgery to be done for so-called, -gender transition.---These issues were represented during the program, along with others from the Supreme Court. Here's a sample of what was discussed---Presidents having immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts but not for unofficial acts.-Did a Supreme Court Justice actually claim Joe Biden has legal permission to assassinate Donald Trump---Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to draw articles of impeachment against the Supreme Court Justices.-The expansion of emergency room abortions.-A Billings, Montana, case regarding a young girl with gender dysphoria.-California Governor Gavin Newsom's ties to the LGBTQ agenda and a kidnapping protection bill.
Brad Dacus is president and founder of the Pacific Justice Institute. Their mission is to defend, without charge, the religious freedoms, parental rights, and other civil liberties of individuals who cannot defend themselves. Brad previously served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm and received his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas, School of Law. --America is running off the rails as it continues to advance an agenda that places transgenderism above true biology. Biological men are decimating women in sports. Those same men are using women's locker rooms, and when females complain, they are the ones that are sanctioned. Schools are taking action to prevent parents from knowing if their minor son or daughter is identifying differently at school than they are at home. Even more tragic is when a family has their child taken away from them by Child Protective Services because the family refuses to allow permanent, bodily mutilating surgery to be done for so-called, -gender transition.---These issues were represented during the program, along with others from the Supreme Court. Here's a sample of what was discussed---Presidents having immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts but not for unofficial acts.-Did a Supreme Court Justice actually claim Joe Biden has legal permission to assassinate Donald Trump---Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to draw articles of impeachment against the Supreme Court Justices.-The expansion of emergency room abortions.-A Billings, Montana, case regarding a young girl with gender dysphoria.-California Governor Gavin Newsom's ties to the LGBTQ agenda and a kidnapping protection bill.
Brad Dacus is president and founder of the Pacific Justice Institute. Their mission is to defend, without charge, the religious freedoms, parental rights, and other civil liberties of individuals who cannot defend themselves. Brad previously served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm and received his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas, School of Law. America is running off the rails as it continues to advance an agenda that places transgenderism above true biology. Biological men are decimating women in sports. Those same men are using women's locker rooms, and when females complain, they are the ones that are sanctioned. Schools are taking action to prevent parents from knowing if their minor son or daughter is identifying differently at school than they are at home. Even more tragic is when a family has their child taken away from them by Child Protective Services because the family refuses to allow permanent, bodily mutilating surgery to be done for so-called, "gender transition."These issues were represented during the program, along with others from the Supreme Court. Here's a sample of what was discussed:Presidents having immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts but not for unofficial acts.Did a Supreme Court Justice actually claim Joe Biden has legal permission to assassinate Donald Trump?Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to draw articles of impeachment against the Supreme Court Justices.The expansion of emergency room abortions.A Billings, Montana, case regarding a young girl with gender dysphoria.California Governor Gavin Newsom's ties to the LGBTQ agenda and a kidnapping protection bill.
Brad Dacus is president and founder of the Pacific Justice Institute. Their mission is to defend, without charge, the religious freedoms, parental rights, and other civil liberties of individuals who cannot defend themselves. Brad previously served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm and received his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas, School of Law. --America is running off the rails as it continues to advance an agenda that places transgenderism above true biology. Biological men are decimating women in sports. Those same men are using women's locker rooms, and when females complain, they are the ones that are sanctioned. Schools are taking action to prevent parents from knowing if their minor son or daughter is identifying differently at school than they are at home. Even more tragic is when a family has their child taken away from them by Child Protective Services because the family refuses to allow permanent, bodily mutilating surgery to be done for so-called, -gender transition.---These issues were represented during the program, along with others from the Supreme Court. Here's a sample of what was discussed---Presidents having immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts but not for unofficial acts.-Did a Supreme Court Justice actually claim Joe Biden has legal permission to assassinate Donald Trump---Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to draw articles of impeachment against the Supreme Court Justices.-The expansion of emergency room abortions.-A Billings, Montana, case regarding a young girl with gender dysphoria.-California Governor Gavin Newsom's ties to the LGBTQ agenda and a kidnapping protection bill.
Brad Dacus is president and founder of the Pacific Justice Institute. Their mission is to defend, without charge, the religious freedoms, parental rights, and other civil liberties of individuals who cannot defend themselves. Brad previously served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm and received his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas, School of Law. --America is running off the rails as it continues to advance an agenda that places transgenderism above true biology. Biological men are decimating women in sports. Those same men are using women's locker rooms, and when females complain, they are the ones that are sanctioned. Schools are taking action to prevent parents from knowing if their minor son or daughter is identifying differently at school than they are at home. Even more tragic is when a family has their child taken away from them by Child Protective Services because the family refuses to allow permanent, bodily mutilating surgery to be done for so-called, -gender transition.---These issues were represented during the program, along with others from the Supreme Court. Here's a sample of what was discussed---Presidents having immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts but not for unofficial acts.-Did a Supreme Court Justice actually claim Joe Biden has legal permission to assassinate Donald Trump---Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to draw articles of impeachment against the Supreme Court Justices.-The expansion of emergency room abortions.-A Billings, Montana, case regarding a young girl with gender dysphoria.-California Governor Gavin Newsom's ties to the LGBTQ agenda and a kidnapping protection bill.
Brad Dacus is president and founder of the Pacific Justice Institute. Their mission is to defend, without charge, the religious freedoms, parental rights, and other civil liberties of individuals who cannot defend themselves. Brad previously served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm and received his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas, School of Law. America is running off the rails as it continues to advance an agenda that places transgenderism above true biology. Biological men are decimating women in sports. Those same men are using women's locker rooms, and when females complain, they are the ones that are sanctioned. Schools are taking action to prevent parents from knowing if their minor son or daughter is identifying differently at school than they are at home. Even more tragic is when a family has their child taken away from them by Child Protective Services because the family refuses to allow permanent, bodily mutilating surgery to be done for so-called, "gender transition."These issues were represented during the program, along with others from the Supreme Court. Here's a sample of what was discussed:Presidents having immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts but not for unofficial acts.Did a Supreme Court Justice actually claim Joe Biden has legal permission to assassinate Donald Trump?Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to draw articles of impeachment against the Supreme Court Justices.The expansion of emergency room abortions.A Billings, Montana, case regarding a young girl with gender dysphoria.California Governor Gavin Newsom's ties to the LGBTQ agenda and a kidnapping protection bill.
Joe Hack is a government relations specialist, political consultant, and former U.S. Senate Chief of Staff with more than 16 years on Capitol Hill.As Senior Vice President of The Daschle Group, Joe is known for his expertise in Senate politics and procedures. Notably, Joe served as a lead Republican consultant in securing passage of The Respect for Marriage Act and played a key role in shepherding The Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act following the January 6 attacks on the U.S. Capitol.Previously, Joe spent 12 years as a senior advisor in both the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives, including more than six years as Chief of Staff to U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (NE).Prior to that, he worked for Senate Whip Jon Kyl as Communications Director and chief spokesman. Joe is also a veteran of the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served as Press Secretary and Legislative Assistant for Rep. J. Randy Forbes (VA-04). He began his career in the office of Senator George Voinovich (OH)Joe was recognized by The Hill as a Top Lobbyist in 2022 and 2023. He is also a 2022 Maverick PAC Future40 Awardee. In 2017, Joe was named by POLITICO as a top Senate operative in the “New Guard” Power List, a guide described as “crucial to understanding the players who are breaking through in the all-consuming era of Donald Trump.”Joe is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Georgetown University and the George Washington University School of Law.Joe and I talked at length about the origins of the TikTok bill, and the legislation drafted to ban the Chinese-owned app for over 170M Americans. We talked about the young man named Bijan Koomariaie. Joe then shared a story about how he met and interviewed a young lawyer named Bijan Koomaraie, who he introduced to Congresswoman Cathy MacMorris Rodgers of Washington State – a top Republican on the House Energy and Commerce committee – to be her legal counsel. Shortly thereafter Steve Scalise, House Majority Leader – based on Bijan's acumen as counsel – poached Bijan to be HIS technology counsel overseeing all that's going through the house Republican conference. This same TikTok bill was passed by the House and the Senate, and signed by President Biden on April 24th of 2024. We then moved on to talk a bit about RFK and his ascendancy as an Independent candidate – a candidate who pledges to be on the ballot in all 50 states before the November election – and how and why RFK is making some real waves for both parties in 2024. We ended our talk by discussing the possibilities of Mr. Trump's growing stable of VP candidates – and which ones we believe have a chance – and those we deemed unworthy of future discussions.This was my first interview with Joe Hack, but we had so much fun (both on and off camera) that we are going to continue our conversation under the heading of Joey Squared moving forward.I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did.Watch Episode: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit truethirty.substack.com/subscribe
Michael Sobolik joined AFPC as a Senior Fellow in Indo-Pacific Studies in September 2019. His work covers American and Chinese grand strategy, regional economic and security trends, America's alliance architecture in Asia, and human rights. Michael also hosts Great Power Podcast, AFPC's show about great power competition and U.S.-China relations. He is also the author of Countering China's Great Game: A Strategy for American Dominance (Naval Institute Press, 2024). Michael's analysis has appeared in the Washington Post, Foreign Policy, Politico, Newsweek, National Review, Jane's Defence Weekly, and RealClearDefense. Prior to joining AFPC, Michael served as a Legislative Assistant in the United States Senate from 2014 to 2019. While in the Senate, Michael drafted legislation on China, Russia, India, Taiwan, North Korea, and Cambodia, as well as strategic systems and missile defense. Michael is a graduate of Texas A&M University, where he studied political philosophy as an undergraduate. He also earned his Master of International Affairs degree in American grand strategy and U.S.-China relations at the Bush School of Government and Public Service.
An Alexander Hamilton Society student roundtable discussion focusing on current affairs in East Asia, what would happen leading up to an invasion of Taiwan or conflict breaking out in the South China Sea, the policy implications behind it for the region, the United States, and the rest of the world, and then identify unique policy responses outside of what the current thinkers are considering. About Michael Sobolik Michael Sobolik is a Senior Fellow in Indo-Pacific Studies for the American Foreign Policy Council (AFPC). His work covers American and Chinese grand strategy, regional economic and security trends, America's Asian alliance architecture, and human rights. Michael also serves as editor of AFPC's Indo-Pacific Monitor e-bulletin, AFPC's review of regional developments. His analysis has appeared in The Diplomat, Foreign Policy, The Hill, Jane's Defence Weekly, The National Interest, National Review, Newsweek, Providence, and RealClearDefense. Before joining AFPC, Michael served as a Legislative Assistant in the United States Senate from 2014 to 2019. While in the Senate, Michael drafted legislation on China, Russia, India, Taiwan, North Korea, and Cambodia, as well as strategic systems and missile defense. Michael is an undergraduate student at Texas A&M University, where he studied political philosophy. He also earned his Master of International Affairs degree in American grand strategy and U.S.-China relations at the Bush School of Government and Public Service.
Morgan's passion for serving the agricultural and food industry is deeply rooted in her upbringing. She grew up on a first-generation wheat, hay, and cattle ranch in Eastern Oregon, was heavily involved in FFA and 4-H, and went on to earn two degrees from Oregon State University and Texas A&M University that supported her passion for agriculture. During her time at Texas A&M, she interned in Washington, D.C. at the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives. After graduation, Morgan landed a job back in D.C. as a Legislative Assistant for The Russell Group, a government relations firm focused on food and agriculture. Here, she has had the opportunity to work with various agriculture and food companies and help advocate for the American agricultural industry in the federal public policy space. Follow Morgan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-orem/ Thank you to Ag Chicks Sponsors: Strayhorn: Use code AGCHICKS at checkout https://www.strayhorn.com ------------------------------------------------ Merch: https://www.agchicks.net/shop ------------------------------------------------ Find Ally: Website: https://agchicks.net Instagram: https://instagram.com/agchicks Facebook: https://facebook.com/agchicks YouTube: @AGCHICKS --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/agchicks/support
From massive demonstrations that have been shutting down traffic and blocking access to other forms of transportation to Christmas events that were interrupted, sadly, anti-Semitism is running rampant at levels in the U.S. and it's growing around the world.--One of the significant breeding grounds for this anti-Semitism has been college and university campuses. --To help listeners sort through this issue, Crosstalk welcomed Brad Dacus. Brad is president and founder of the Pacific Justice Institute. Their mission is to defend, without charge, the religious freedoms, parental rights, and other civil liberties of individuals who cannot defend themselves. Brad previously served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm and received his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas, School of Law.--Earlier this month, the Anti-Defamation League reported that from October 7th to December 7th, a recorded 2,031 anti-Semitic incidents took place. That's up from 465 recorded incidents recorded in the same period in 2022, a 337- increase year over year.--What's going on here-- Have people just suddenly become anti-Semitic-- After all, Brad reminded listeners that the massacre of Jews by Hamas on October 7th was the catalyst. He indicated that while a small amount of this might be young people just looking for a cause, he believes that this is anti-Semitism coming to the surface that was there even before October 7th and that's what should be very alarming.--Brad also noted that these deep issues of anti-Semitism are coming from Muslim students who are here in the U.S. through visas, as well as a large percentage of first, second, third and fourth generation Muslims.
From massive demonstrations that have been shutting down traffic and blocking access to other forms of transportation to Christmas events that were interrupted, sadly, anti-Semitism is running rampant at levels in the U.S. and it's growing around the world.--One of the significant breeding grounds for this anti-Semitism has been college and university campuses. --To help listeners sort through this issue, Crosstalk welcomed Brad Dacus. Brad is president and founder of the Pacific Justice Institute. Their mission is to defend, without charge, the religious freedoms, parental rights, and other civil liberties of individuals who cannot defend themselves. Brad previously served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm and received his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas, School of Law.--Earlier this month, the Anti-Defamation League reported that from October 7th to December 7th, a recorded 2,031 anti-Semitic incidents took place. That's up from 465 recorded incidents recorded in the same period in 2022, a 337- increase year over year.--What's going on here-- Have people just suddenly become anti-Semitic-- After all, Brad reminded listeners that the massacre of Jews by Hamas on October 7th was the catalyst. He indicated that while a small amount of this might be young people just looking for a cause, he believes that this is anti-Semitism coming to the surface that was there even before October 7th and that's what should be very alarming.--Brad also noted that these deep issues of anti-Semitism are coming from Muslim students who are here in the U.S. through visas, as well as a large percentage of first, second, third and fourth generation Muslims.
Religious rights are under attack and it's often happening in the public square. It's not just religious rights, but parental rights as well where the state has become the surrogate parents and, in some instances, they're actually pitting children against their parents.--To discuss where America currently stands on such issues, Jim welcomed Brad Dacus. Brad is president and founder of the Pacific Justice Institute. Their mission is to defend, without charge, the religious freedoms, parental rights, and other civil liberties of individuals who cannot defend themselves. Brad previously served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm and received his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas, School of Law. He's testified before the U.S. House of Representatives and before the California State Legislature.--When you review this edition of Crosstalk, have a notebook handy because Brad presented a lot of great information including---The recent elections, particularly in Ohio, and the defeat on abortion there. On the national level he noted how it's one thing for the Supreme Court to say that it's OK to kill the pre-born, but when the people have the opportunity to decide, then the culpability goes way up. But be forewarned, he also indicated that God allows levels of culpability to rise prior to judgment. --Brad has a phrase he uses. It's -spiritual death camp.- He uses it to describe public schools and how they're very different from years ago as they're brain-washing youngsters, right down to the Kindergarten level.--The legal recourse parents have when girls have to deal with boys in locker rooms or compete against them in sports.
Religious rights are under attack and it's often happening in the public square. It's not just religious rights, but parental rights as well where the state has become the surrogate parents and, in some instances, they're actually pitting children against their parents.--To discuss where America currently stands on such issues, Jim welcomed Brad Dacus. Brad is president and founder of the Pacific Justice Institute. Their mission is to defend, without charge, the religious freedoms, parental rights, and other civil liberties of individuals who cannot defend themselves. Brad previously served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm and received his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas, School of Law. He's testified before the U.S. House of Representatives and before the California State Legislature.--When you review this edition of Crosstalk, have a notebook handy because Brad presented a lot of great information including---The recent elections, particularly in Ohio, and the defeat on abortion there. On the national level he noted how it's one thing for the Supreme Court to say that it's OK to kill the pre-born, but when the people have the opportunity to decide, then the culpability goes way up. But be forewarned, he also indicated that God allows levels of culpability to rise prior to judgment. --Brad has a phrase he uses. It's -spiritual death camp.- He uses it to describe public schools and how they're very different from years ago as they're brain-washing youngsters, right down to the Kindergarten level.--The legal recourse parents have when girls have to deal with boys in locker rooms or compete against them in sports.
The truth is that we lose someone to suicide every 45 seconds. It impacts every community on the planet. Suicide isn't a bad word. We can and should talk about it because talking about it is how we quell stigma and silence the shame that has latched on to it for ages. Suicide has impacted and will impact so many. There are those we've lost to suicide, there are those who are thinking about suicide, there are those who attempt and survive, there are those who are grieving because of suicide, and there are those who are worried about someone they love considering it. We believe we all have a role to play in working to prevent these tragedies. One piece of the puzzle that is suicide prevention is giving space for those who have been directly impacted by this epidemic, and that includes people who have lost those they love to suicide. Within the grief of losing someone, there are waves of guilt and waves of shame. Those continuing on in the aftermath are left with questions and often little to no answers. They might wonder why, they might ask what they could have done differently, and they might think it's wrong for them to smile or laugh or hope ever again. There is a common thread between the two individuals joining us on today's episode. They have both lost sisters to suicide and they are both wanting and willing to exist in this awkward and vulnerable space for the sake of healing and hope and help. While they go about it in different ways, their goals are similar. Our two guests are none other than Billy Dwyer and Austin Andrew, and we are eager to introduce you to them. Billy Dwyer (he/him) is a Licensed Social Worker who works as a Legislative Assistant for his personal Member of Congress in Washington, D.C. As a suicide loss survivor, he is passionate about sharing his sister's story and advocating for headache disorders. Billy is a proud TWLOHA intern alum and has helped represent the organization at events across the US. Beyond professional work, Billy enjoys being outside, drinking coffee, cooking, and lounging by the nearest body of water. Austin Andrew (he/him) has studied outdoor adventure leadership and when he is not guiding, he can typically be found (or rather not found) outside riding his bike or climbing some mountain. Austin is the founder of a non-profit called We Shall Continue with Style, and is an ambassador for Kona Bikes and the Maxx G Foundation. Austin shares his story of living with grief after loss and works to support others through their own grief. At the present moment, he is cycling through the Americas on a bike. Show Notes (Links of ours and guests): Download a transcript of this episode at twloha.com/podcast. Follow TWLOHA on social media at: twitter.com/TWLOHA instagram.com/twloha/ facebook.com/towriteloveonherarms/ Visit our FIND HELP page of mental health resources at twloha.com/find-help/. Get connected for free, 24/7 to a trained crisis counselor via Crisis Text Line by texting TWLOHA to 741741. Connect with our team by emailing podcast@twloha.com. Learn more about the podcast and previous episodes at twloha.com/podcast. Download TWLOHA's daily-use self-care app, The Hopeful, at twloha.com/thehopeful/. To read Billy Dwyer's blog, go to https://twloha.com/blog/author/billy-dwyer/. To read Austin Andrew's blog, go to https://twloha.com/blog/author/austin-andrew/. To learn about We Shall Continue With Style, visit https://www.weshallcontinuewithstyle.com/. For support for survivors of suicide loss, check out https://afsp.org/ive-lost-someone/. Purchase a copy of Brene Brown's “Daring Greatly” at https://brenebrown.com/book/daring-greatly/. Credits: This episode of the TWLOHA podcast was hosted by Chad Moses and produced by Rebecca Ebert. Music assistance was provided by James Likeness and Ben Tichenor.
Listen as second-time Risky Benefits podcast guest, Jim Klein, President of the American Benefits Council – a Washington, D.C. based employee benefits public policy advocacy organization – discusses the remarkable amount of bipartisanship that occurs surrounding employee benefits issues, such as: mental healthcare, Telehealth provisions, site neutrality payment reform, demand for greater transparency among pharmacy benefit manufacturers, Roth Catch-Up provision, and paid leave.He explains the challenges of consistent movement on these issues beyond must-do legislation, i.e., the annual federal debt ceiling legislation. Often times, bipartisan issues get flushed out based on political timing and influence. Klein shares his insight on the lack of moderate viewpoints to help create balance and trust among parties – and its impact on actual policy changes.MORE ABOUT OUR GUESTS:Jim Klein, Presidentamericanbenefitscouncil.comJim Klein is president of the American Benefits Council. He joined the Council in 1988 as Deputy Executive Director and has served as Executive Director/President since 1992. Previously, Jim was manager of pension and health care policy for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and, before that, practiced law for a Washington, D.C. firm specializing in employee benefits. He also worked as a Legislative Assistant for a member of Congress.Jim serves on the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plan's Government Liaison Committee and was the recipient of the 2018 Public Service Award from that organization. He is a fellow of the American College of Employee Benefits Counsel and a member of the editorial advisory board of Benefits Quarterly. In the global benefits arena, Jim serves as a private sector advisor to the Working Party on Private Pensions of the Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD); and the Council is actively engaged with several international organizations representing the interests of U.S.-based companies operating outside the United States. Jim graduated with a degree in bioethics from Tufts University and a law degree from the George Washington University School of Law.To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.
Guest Abby Gray, a renowned and respected private Chef, cooking school owner, and leader of culinary adventures, who was mentored by the likes of Master Chef's Todd English and Jacques Pépin, joins us in this 2-part series to share her own journey of rediscovery and reclamation. In part 1, Abby lays out her anything but straight and narrow career history. Starting out as a Legislative Assistant & Director of Seminars for a political magazine on Capital Hill, spending years in Event Planning at a media organization before owning the European market-style store "Olivia Browning" in the Boston-area waterfront community of Charlestown. Meeting her best friend and love of her life, who she has greatly partnered with in all areas of life. All before becoming the Chef she is today. In today's episode, Abby shares a deeper take into owning a small business, the delicate balance of work and family life, and incredible amount of encouragement for any of us that want to make a switch to a new career or to chase our passions, but are feeling under-qualified and out of touch. This episode is a gentle reminder that we need to own our womanhood, and to own our roles as mothers and caregivers. We all have a rich life history filled with the skillsets and tools for our next adventure. SHOW NOTES Connect with Abby: http://www.cookingwithabby.com/ Chef Abby Gray IG: https://www.instagram.com/cookingwithabbygray/ Do More for Cancer Foundation and Gala: http://www.cookingwithabby.com/do-more-for-cancer CONNECT WITH KRISTINA Share Your Story or Ask Your Questions: Kristina@andthenbewell.com Follow Along: Podcast IG // LinkedIn Don't forget to subscribe, rate and review after your favorite episodes. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/andthenbewell/support
Have you asked yourself this question in recent years: "What am I going to do with the rest of my life?". At this stage in the game it is only natural that we take a retrospective glance on the careers we've built and the families we are raising. Asking ourselves if what we are doing right now will continue to serve us, if it brings us joy, if it provides in a way that aligns with our lives. Guest Abby Gray, a renowned and respected private Chef, cooking school owner, and leader of culinary adventures, who was mentored by the likes of Master Chef's Todd English and Jacques Pépin, joins us in this 2-part series to share her own journey of rediscovery and reclamation. In part 1 (today's episode), Abby lays out her anything but straight and narrow career history. Starting out as a Legislative Assistant & Director of Seminars for a political magazine on Capital Hill, spending years in Event Planning at a media organization before owning the European market-style store "Olivia Browning" in the Boston-area waterfront community of Charlestown. Meeting her best friend and love of her life, who she has greatly partnered with in all areas of life. All before becoming the Chef she is today. Next week Abby shares a deeper take into owning a small business, the delicate balance of work and family life, and a whole lot of incredible encouragement for us that want to make a switch but are feeling under-qualified. SHOW NOTES Connect with Abby: http://www.cookingwithabby.com/ ___ CONNECT WITH KRISTINA Share Your Story or Ask Your Questions: Kristina@andthenbewell.com Follow Along: Podcast IG // LinkedIn Don't forget to subscribe, rate and review after your favorite episodes. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/andthenbewell/support
This week Class 4 Fellow and Fellow Highlights series host Meri Baghdasaryan sits down with Allyson McReynolds, a recent graduate from George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School and currently a Legal Fellow at the Wikimedia Foundation. Prior to law school, Allyson worked in the U.S. House of Representatives as a Legislative Assistant advising on homeland security, technology, and judiciary policy. In law school she held internships at the Federal Communications Commission, US Senate, and Future of Privacy Forum. She is a member of the Fourth Class of Foundry Fellows and serves as the Communications Director. Meri and Allyson chat about Allyson's work on the Capitol Hill, her interests and internships in the field of privacy and cybersecurity, Allyson's engagement with the Foundry and how to maximize your time at law school. Resources mentioned in the episode: FCBA (The Tech Bar) Wilson Center Congressional Fellowships Cybercon 2022 Connect with Allyson McReynolds on LinkedIn here; https://www.linkedin.com/in/allyson-mcreynolds-a69485121/ Check out the Foundry on Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn and subscribe to our newsletter! If you'd like to support the show, donate to the Foundry here or reach out to us at foundrypodcasts@ilpfoundry.us. Thanks for listening, and stay tuned for our next episode! DISCLAIMER: Meri engages with the Foundry voluntarily and in her personal capacities. The views and opinions expressed on air do not reflect on the organizations Meri is affiliated with.
This week we're talking with CLT native Jordan Lopez. Jordan sits down with the WGN Pod to discuss the nuances of politics within local and state government. Lopez gets candid on why he chose this career field and it started when he got involved with student government back in high school. Lopez gives a snapshot on what it was like working as a Legislative Assistant in Raleigh and how that path led him back to his hometown of CLT and committing to making a difference in the community with his work he does, along with working with the nonprofit Charlotte East. Definitely enjoyed you brother. Come back anytime! #WhoGotNext #CLTure
On this week's AgCast, Mitt Walker, director of Governmental and Agricultural Programs visits with Congressman Barry Moore who was in his district to hear from Alabama farmers about the Farm Bill - a package of legislation passed by Congress roughly every five years. You will also hear from Cong. Moore's Legislative Assistant, Samantha Barnett.In the wrap up, we spotlight the Taste of Alabama. This annual event is sponsored by the Alabama Farmers Federation and invites elected officials to samples food grown locally in Alabama. Alabama-grown food, fellowship and one-on-one conversations filled the room as over 100 elected officials and numerous farmer-leaders gathered to engage with their local constituents.Be sure to check out Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farmers Federation.
Shenika Chambers, Policy Program Manager at Violence Free Minnesota, joins Nadine in the Waiting Room and shares insight on the legislative process from her time as a Legislative Assistant with the Minnesota House of Representatives. Here is an additional resource outlining how a bill becomes law. Who Represents Me? Also, here you can find Violence Free Minnesota's 2023 Legislative agenda, which includes some policies mentioned in this episode. Mentioned in this episode: Penumbra Theatre Let's Talk: Shifting The Narrative On Criminal Justice Catholic Charities Locked Out: Concepts Of Criminality And Housing Security In Our Community LRC: Know Your Rights MN / Until We Are All Free - follow up to inquire about purchasing a limited edition Black History Month Tee Lewiee Blaze Artist, Activist, and Entrepreneur - Song: “My Own People” Text Blaze to 33777 to hear more from him. Wise Ink - The publishing company hosting the writing retreat Book recommendation: Bending The Arc: My Journey From Prison to Polictics by Keeda J. Haynes
In this special edition episode of GREAT POWER PODCAST, host Michael Sobolik turns the conversation over to AFPC President Herman Pirchner and AFPC Advisory Board Member Manisha Singh for a discussion on the past year of warfare in Ukraine, what the coming months could look like, and what it means for the United States and global security. Guest biographies Herman Pirchner, Jr. is the founding President of AFPC. Under his leadership, AFPC has hosted Washington events for hundreds of foreign officials ranging from the Prime Minister of Malta to the Prime Minister of Russia; conducted hundreds of briefings for Members of Congress and their staffs and, organized dozens of fact-finding missions abroad for current and former senior American officials. Former Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge, Former Secretary of Defense Don Rumsfeld, Former Speaker of the House of Representatives Newt Gingrich, former Director of Central Intelligence R. James Woolsey, as well as the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dick Myers are among those who have participated in this program. Pirchner's travels have taken him to most areas of the world, including more than 65 trips to the former Soviet Union since 1989, and more than 30 trips to China since 1994. He is an engaging speaker with a compelling grasp of the dynamics of world affairs. AFPC's publication program includes sponsorship of articles, monographs, books and Congressional testimony. AFPC authors have appeared in numerous newspapers and magazines including the Washington Post, New York Times, International Herald Tribune, Jane's Defense Weekly, Washington Times, Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, and National Review. In addition to his duties at AFPC, Mr. Pirchner directed the national security team advising the 2012 Presidential campaign of Newt Gingrich. Among his many publications is Pirchner's very prescient 2004 monograph, Reviving Greater Russia: The Future of Russia's Borders with Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Moldova, and Ukraine. He is also the author of Post Putin: Succession, Stability, and Russia's Future (Rowman and Littlefield, May 2019), which is also available in Ukrainian and Russian editions. Before founding AFPC, Mr. Pirchner served in the U.S. Senate as Director of Legislation for Senator Roger Jepsen (R-IA) and Legislative Assistant to Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA). She is an American attorney and government official who served as Assistant Secretary of State for Economic and Business Affairs in the Trump administration until January 20, 2021. She previously also served as Acting Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment. Previously, Singh worked as a lawyer at Reed Smith and Squire Patton Boggs. She also served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Economic, Energy, and Business Affairs during the Bush administration. Resources from the conversation Read Herman's book, Post Putin Read Herman's Washington Times op-ed about U.S. assistance to Ukraine
Eric Mitchell is the Executive Director of the Alliance to End Hunger. In his role, he leads the Alliance's strategic direction, including expanding and mobilizing its network of companies, nonprofit organizations, universities, foundations, and individuals. Prior to the Alliance, Eric served as Director of Global Government Relations for Adtalem Global Education, where he partnered with local government officials, businesses, and civic organizations in the United States and the Caribbean. He also served for six years as the Director of Government Relations at Bread for the World. Eric began his political career on Capitol Hill, serving as Policy Advisor to civil rights icon, U.S. Congressman John Lewis (D-GA), and Legislative Assistant to U.S. Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA). Eric was included in The Root 100 most influential African Americans under the age of 40. He was also recognized as a “Top Lobbyist” from 2014-2019 by The Hill newspaper. Eric talked about the Farmbill and here is a link explaining more about this Bill. You can follow the The Alliance to End Hunger on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Eric is also on Twitter. The songs picked by all our guests can be found via our playlist #walktalklisten here. Please let me/us know via our email innovationhub@cwsglobal.org what you think about this new series. We would love to hear from you. Please like/follow our Walk Talk Listen podcast and follow mauricebloem on twitter and instagram. Or check us out on our website 100mile.org. We also encourage you to check out the special WTL series Enough for All about an organization called CWS. Stay tuned for the 11th 100 mile walk that will take place from March 26 - April 1, 2023 in Seattle, WA area, find more info via de 100mile.org website. Or go straight to our fundraising page.
The Harkness method is a discussion-based learning style that emphasizes student centric discussion and active participation in a classroom setting. The goal is to create an environment where students can share their thoughts and perspectives, engage in meaningful conversations, and learn from each other.Jason Brooks, a native of South Central Los Angeles, taught Mandarin, Spanish & Mathematics for 18 years. During COVID-19, as he tracked student interaction by hand, he quickly recognized the potential for artificial intelligence to fuel better meeting performance. In October 2021, he founded HARKNESS.AI, an early stage startup whose vision is to empower everyone - on every team - to meaningfully contribute their voice at work, in school, or any other group... free from friction, fear or bias. Co-founder Keenan Hale Jr. graduated from Syracuse University as a Big East Conference Football Champion & 2-time bowl winner with a degree in Communications and Rhetorical Studies. He began his career as a Chief of Staff and Campaign Manager for Mayoral Candidate Rochelle Robinson in Douglasville, GA. He later served as Legislative Assistant and senior advisor to Congressman Al Green. Most recently, Keenan worked as a registered lobbyist advising and providing political & regulatory insight to multiple trade associations and Fortune 500 clients.Co-hosts Rohan and Mike join us to discuss the conversation trust factor, targeting miscommunication and how that corrodes trust and team, their aim to promote self-awareness within the team structure, and the ability to help people ask hard cultural questions safely.TIMESTAMPS0:03:28 - The Genesis of Harkness AI: A Story of Overcoming Adversity and Finding Success in Education0:05:20 - Harnessing the Power of Data Science to Transform School Culture During the Pandemic0:06:57 - Exploring Ed Tech Innovation in the Pandemic0:13:14 - The Benefits of Adult Online Learning Platforms0:14:45 - The Use of AI-Powered Technology in Business, Couples Therapy, and Dispute Resolution0:17:45 - The Impact of Technology on Trust and Acceleration of Artificial Intelligence0:20:02 - AI Ethics: Combining Soft and Hard Skills for Business Success0:21:35 - AI-Powered Real-Time Coaching for Improved Communication in the Workplace0:24:41 - The Promise of AI to Transform the Way We Do Things0:27:00 - The Potential of AI to Mitigate Miscommunication and Conflict0:29:09 - Exploring the Humanistic Approach to AI0:31:56 - The Power of Language and AI to Connect People and Transform Lives0:34:34 - Cultural and Communication Differences0:36:18 - Awareness to Physical Presence in Meetings0:37:56 - Incorporating Team Members for Maximum Efficiency0:45:31 - Voice Suppression in the EdTech and Workforce Surveillance Risk Areas0:47:46 - Establishing Trust and Ethics in the Digital Age0:50:41 - Virtual Observers and Their Impact on Communication0:53:14 - Benefits of Using Data to Make Decisions in the Workplace0:54:57 - Creating a Culture of Respect and Clarity0:58:11 - Exploring Cross-Cultural Communication1:02:57 - Benefits of Leveraging Harkness to Improve Team Dynamics1:09:54 - Connecting People Across Different Use Cases1:14:56 - Combining Visual and Auditory LearningSYMLINKSHarkness.aiDRINK INSTRUCTIONpicEPISODE SPONSORTUXCARECONNECT WITH USBecome a SponsorSupport us on PatreonFollow us on LinkedInTweet us at @BarCodeSecurityEmail us at info@barcodesecurity.com
Today's guest is Daisha Williams who is the Environmental Justice Manager for CleanAIRE NC. CleanAIRE NC utilizes action, education, and innovation in their partnerships to restore the environment. They started in 2003 as CleanAIRE Carolina where volunteers banded together to improve air quality and noticed the link between that and climate change and public health. Their focus today is on climate change and air quality; addressing it through advocacy, education, and community-driven research and programs. CleanAIRE NC has 4 programs; health, policy, citizen science, and environmental justice. The Health program provides information to help health professionals talk to their patients about climate change, air pollution, and how it is affecting their health. The Policy program advocates for strengthening environmental policies to limit the factors that contribute to air pollution and climate change. The Citizen Science program uses air monitors in impacted communities to translate data for actions and improvements. The Environmental Justice program incorporates all of the other programs to make sure those who have been affected the most by climate change concerns are being included in efforts and decisions as well as empowered with knowledge. While CleanAIRE NC is based in Charlotte, NC, they assist communities all over North Carolina and have offices in Greensboro and Durham as well. Before landing at CleanAIRE NC, Daisha received her Bachelor's of Science in Sustainable Development from Appalachian State University and was interested in animals so she joined the Woodland Park Zoo in Washington. From there she learned she was more interested in working with people, so she got a job as a Legislative Assistant at the Washington Environmental Council where she worked with students in Title I schools in the Seattle area on the legislative process, who their representatives are, and how to use their voice for change. She was also part of a team that helped create a policy strategy that was passed to safeguard the environment. Next, she decided to get a graduate degree in Policy at John's Hopkins University, and moved back to Charlotte where she got a job working with the Americorps' Regional Stormwater Partnership of the Carolinas and began her work in the Historic West End. Because of her strong work in the community, it made sense to be involved with CleanAIRE NC as the new Environmental Justice Manager. She also has a graduate certificate in Geographic Information Science and Technology. The Historic West End in Charlotte was subjected to red lining back in the 1930s which caused this area to have a lot of pollution due to the nearby highways and industries. Three highway systems cross through this neighborhood. The Airkeepers program through CleanAIRE NC was launched in 2017 which was the first one in the state. This system measured particulate matter. This is important as our lungs cannot remove certain sizes of particulate matter as it reaches deep into the lungs and bloodstream. The intention for this program was to arm the community of how much particulate matter is present and when it's at the highest concentration. In 2018, community members and CleanAIRE NC created a report on pollution and health concerns to present to the Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioner's in order to advocate for a federal EPA monitor which they received. The importance of the federal EPA monitor is that now the government is responsible for implementing programs to address the present issues. This also helped them formalize a Historic West End Green District which is designed to improve air quality, reduce emissions, and improve overall health. The community-led program started with 3 volunteers and now has 13. The health impacts of poor air quality are great and include issues such as inflammation, imbalanced nervous systems, can exacerbate diabetes, heart disease, and asthma. Recent studies have even found that poor air quality has a strong link to death by COVID. "It really disheartens me that pollution touches this community and many communities like it in a cumulative way; it's not just water quality concerns, it's not just air quality concerns, it's also a concern of a lack of resources, whether that's lack of access to fresh and healthy food, lack of access to medical services, you also have concerns of displacement as Charlotte expands and grows rapidly and these communities are getting pushed out of their neighborhoods." The Historic West End Green District's projects are chosen by the residents and have 3 main goals; strategic tree planting and maintaining of current trees as well as installing green walls and roofs, advocating for electric car charging stations and increasing access to more clean transit, and education on sustainability and solutions for clean air. The Historic West End Green District is working on Community Benefits Agreements which would work with industries in the area to help cut down particulate matter and pollutants. "So building up those relationships because that's where you start is just listening and building up trust and expanding this work and even connecting other environmental justice communities to each other because there is power in numbers and there's also a lot of solidarity in listening and creating solutions with those that are experiencing the same things." If you would like to support CleanAIRE NC, Daisha recommends educating yourself first on the historical inequities, environmental justice, and the legacy it has left behind. From there you can speak out against it and vote for people who will support efforts. You can join their Advocacy program or donate to support them. For self-care, Daisha enjoys spending time in nature, walks with her dog, and baking. To connect with CleanAIRE NC you can visit their website here or email Daisha at daisha@cleanaire.org.
GUEST OVERVIEW: Brad Dacus served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm, and went on to receive his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas, School of Law. Brad coordinated religious freedom and parental rights cases throughout the Western States for five years prior to founding Pacific Justice Institute in 1997. PJI has a network with hundreds of volunteer affiliate attorneys and handles more cases on the West Coast than any other legal non profit organization of its kind. Brad Dacus can be watched daily (M-F) on Brad Dacus Live on Hischannel.com and heard weekly on The Dacus Report on more than 711 radio stations across the country and also as a guest speaker on numerous radio and television programs across the nation. He has appeared on America Live, CBS Evening News, CNN, Dateline NBC, Good Morning America, MSNBC, NBC News, News Talk TV, and The Today Show and numerous times on FOX News.
We have a great episode today with Cassie Tripp as our guest. Cassie is the Legislative Assistant for Sen. Linda Rogers in the Indiana General Assembly. Cassie joins us to talk about the role of the LA and provides us with some inside information into how you can be a more effective Advocate!
This week we welcome back friend of the podcast Saat Alety as he gives Jim an update on his recent move from Allstate to Fed Hall. Saat Alety is a Partner at Federal Hall Policy Advisors (Fed Hall), a leading bipartisan government affairs firm in Washington, D.C. Named to The Hill's Top Lobbyist list in 2021, Alety most recently led Allstate's advocacy efforts with Congress, the White House, and federal agencies, in addition to its public policy development at the federal, state, and local level. Alety previously served as Majority Staff Director of the Subcommittee on Housing, Transportation, and Community Development under U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. As Sen. Scott's senior policy advisor on financial services issues, Alety led efforts that resulted in the enactment of legislation to grow consumer access to banking services, prevent synthetic identity theft, and modernize mortgage credit standards. Prior to his tenure as a Senate staffer, Alety spent three years as Communications Director to U.S. Representative Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. While spokesperson, Alety was also a Legislative Assistant to Rep. Royce for his House Financial Services Committee portfolio. In addition to his Capitol Hill experience, Alety has held positions with the Financial Services Roundtable (now Bank Policy Institute), the leading trade association for the financial services industry, and the Romney 2012 presidential campaign. A native of Naperville, Illinois, Alety began his career in the office of U.S. Representative Judy Biggert (R-IL). He serves on the boards of directors/advisors for College to Congress, the National Network to End Domestic Violence, and the One Love Foundation. Alety is also an alumni advisor to the Congressional Asian Pacific American Staff Association and a recipient of its Jose M. Montano Jr. Award for "going above and beyond to sustain a pipeline of AAPI Hill staffers and leaders on the Hill." In 2022, Alety joined his undergraduate alma mater Loyola University Chicago as an adjunct professor in its political science department, teaching PLSC 238: Political Advocacy for the school's Washington program. He has also guest lectured for students at the University of Chicago, New York University, and American University. Help us grow! Leave us a rating and review - it's the best way to bring new listeners to the show. Don't forget to subscribe! Have a suggestion, or want to chat with Jim? Email him at Jim@ThePoliticalLife.net Follow The Political Life on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter for weekly updates.
Brad Dacus, President and Founder of Pacific Justice Institute! They have been fighting for religious, family and constitutional rights for years - and Mr. Dacus will be speaking on current events in his message/presentation and available for Q&A.Brad Dacus served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm, and went on to receive his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas, School of Law. Brad coordinated religious freedom and parental rights cases throughout the Western States for five years prior to founding Pacific Justice Institute in 1997. PJI has a network with hundreds of volunteer affiliate attorneys and handles more cases on the West Coast than any other organization of its kind.Brad Dacus can be watched daily (M-F) on Brad Dacus Live on Hischannel.com and heard weekly on The Dacus Report on more than 711 radio stations across the country and also as a guest speaker on numerous radio and television programs across the nation. He has appeared on America Live, CBS Evening News, CNN, Dateline NBC, Good Morning America, MSNBC, NBC News, News Talk TV, and The Today Show and numerous times on FOX News.Mr. Dacus' varied public speaking opportunities include public debate and testifying before the United States House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. He has also testified numerous times before the California State Legislature on legislation affecting religious freedom and parents' rights.
164: Building an Organizational Culture of Advocacy (Eric Mitchell)SUMMARYYou likely bring a passion for change to your leadership role, but are you channeling that passion in the most effective way possible? Are you the advocate for the societal change you aspire to see? In episode #164 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, one time Capitol Hill congressional staffer turned executive director Eric Mitchell explains the missing component to senior nonprofit leadership: advocacy. You may know policies and regulations that can impact your organization, but Eric explains the importance of advocating for policy change that would better affect the community you're there to serve. Don't go it alone. Learn how to build a coalition of many to lobby lawmakers. Eric discusses how to advocate for legislation, regulations and policies that get to the root causes which impact people's daily lives and not just continuously treat the symptoms. You'll also hear many lessons learned from someone who has crossed various sectors along his career journey.ABOUT ERICEric Mitchell is the Executive Director of the Alliance to End Hunger. In his role, he leads the Alliance's strategic direction, including expanding and mobilizing its network of companies, nonprofit organizations, universities, foundations, and individuals. Prior to the Alliance, Eric served as Director of Global Government Relations for Adtalem Global Education, where he partnered with local government officials, businesses, and civic organizations in the United States and the Caribbean. He also served for six years as the Director of Government Relations at Bread for the World. Eric began his political career on Capitol Hill, serving as Policy Advisor to civil rights icon, U.S. Congressman John Lewis (D-GA), and Legislative Assistant to U.S. Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA).In 2014, Eric was included in The Root 100 most influential African Americans under the age of 40. He was also recognized as a “Top Lobbyist” from 2014 to 2019 by The Hill newspaper.EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCESThe End of Fundraising: Raise More Money by Selling Your Impact by Jason SaulLearn more about Eric and the work he's doing at the Alliance to End Hunger hereCheck out Patton's new book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector
GUEST OVERVIEW: Brad Dacus, president of Pacific Justice Institute is a constitutional attorney and can talk on anything related to religious freedom, parental rights, and other civil liberties. Brad Dacus served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm, and went on to receive his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas, School of Law. Brad coordinated religious freedom and parental rights cases throughout the Western States for five years prior to founding Pacific Justice Institute in 1997. PJI has a network with hundreds of volunteer affiliate attorneys and handles more cases coast to coast than any other legal non profit organization of its kind.
Dr. Chris Bustamante serves as the Executive Director of the Arizona Community College Coordinating Council (AC4). In this position, he leads the statewide council of presidents/chancellors of the ten community college districts in their work to advance the mission and interests of Arizona's community colleges. He is also the former president of Rio Salado College (Rio) and the Maricopa Corporate College (MCOR), both located in Tempe, Arizona. The institutions are part of the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) which serves approximately 200,000 students annually. Rio is the largest of the District's ten individually accredited colleges and serves nearly 50,000 students each year. Dr. Bustamante retired in August 2018 after forty years of public service in Arizona, including over twenty-six years in MCCCD. Dr. Bustamante is a well-known advocate for increasing access to higher education and degree completion. In addition, he is highly regarded for forging transformational partnerships with business, government, and educational providers. He was appointed President of Rio in June 2010 and President of MCOR in August 2016. Prior leadership roles at Rio include: Vice President of Community Development and Student Services and Dean of Academic Affairs. Previously he served in senior level government affairs positions for MCCCD and as Assistant to the Superintendent for Community and Government Relations for the Phoenix Union High School District, and as a Legislative Assistant in the Arizona House of Representatives. A native to Arizona, he holds both a doctorate and master's degree in educational leadership from Northern Arizona University. He earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Arizona and attended Pima Community College as a transfer student. Dr. Bustamante's commitment to higher education is noted by his leadership roles nationally and locally. He currently serves as the Board Chair for Higher Learning Advocates (HLA), a Lumina funded advocacy organization, and served as Chair of the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) Board of Trustees (2016-17), and as a CAEL Senior Fellow (2020-21); currently serves as a CAEL Advisory Board member (2018-Present) and ED2Work Advisory Council member (2021-). In addition, he served as a board member for the American Council on Education (ACE) (2016-2018) and Chair of ACE's Commission on Education, Attainment, and Innovation (2014-15). He served on the Board for the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) (2015-2017) and its Executive Committee (2017), and as President of the National Community College Hispanic Council (NCCHC) (2014-15). In 2018, he completed service as a member of the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE), the Presidents' Forum Advisory Board, Credential Engine Board, and the Advisory Board for the Higher Education Research and Development Institute (HERDI). In addition, Dr. Bustamante served as President of the Continuous Quality Improvement Network (CQIN/AFIT) and member of its Executive Committee (2012-2018). He currently serves on the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) and its Executive Committee. Locally, he was co-chair of the Arizona-Mexico Commission's Education Committee (2016-2018), Friends of Public Radio Arizona Board Member (2010-2018), and currently serves on the local boards of the Boy Scouts of America and the Be A Leader Foundation in Phoenix. Chris and his wife, Mary, live in Tempe, Arizona, where they are raising their three daughters.
The Football History Dude is part of the https://sportshistorynetwork.com/ (Sports History Network - The Headquarters For Sports Yesteryear). NETWORK SPONSORS https://sportshistorynetwork.com/row1/ (Row One) - the vintage shop for sports history fans! EPISODE SUMMARY Aaron Tallent rides shotgun in the DeLorean to take us back to the days of the USFL, shares the history (and significance) of the salary cap, takes a stab at some of the best drafts picks of all time, and much more. Let's get this baby up to 88mph!!! Below are some of the items we discuss: How he landed an interview with Dan Marino and what they talked about An overview of his "best draft picks of each spot of all time" His childhood team he rooted for His process for writing this behemoth of a project A pick that stood out as "wow, that was a great value" - not named Tom Brady, because that's too easy An overview of his article covering the birth of the salary cap His top 5 teams in USFL history (the first version of the USFL) Much more... AUTHOR BIO Aaron Tallent is a writer whose work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Hill, The Daily Oklahoman, The Cancer Letter, The Washington Times, The Advocate & Democrat, Athlon Sports, The Sweet Science, and FOX Sports' Outkick the Coverage. Prior to starting his own freelance writing business, Aaron was an Associate Director of Communications for the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), where he was responsible for leading ASCO's quality of care communications efforts, which includes shaping the narrative and defining ASCO's perspective on key topics, including big data, drug shortages, cancer prevention, and quality improvement programs. Before joining the ASCO communications team, Aaron managed media advocacy for the American Heart Association's Mid-Atlantic Affiliate where he wrote and placed more than 30 op-eds and letters to the editor in Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Washington, D.C. His previous experience also includes serving as a Deputy Press Secretary and Legislative Assistant for U.S. Rep. John J. Duncan, Jr. [R-TN] and as a newscast producer for WVLT-TV, the CBS affiliate in Knoxville, Tenn. THE FOOTBALL HISTORY DUDE BACKGROUND https://sportshistorynetwork.com/podcasts/the-football-history-dude/ (The Football History Dude) is a show dedicated to teaching NFL fans about the rich history of the game we all know and love. I'm your host, Arnie Chapman, and I'm just a regular dude that loves football and is a nerd when it comes to learning about history. I created this show to share the gridiron knowledge nuggets I gain from researching various topics about the history of the National Football League. Each episode I welcome you to climb aboard my DeLorean to travel back in time to explore the yesteryear of the gridiron, and yes, that's a reference to the Back to the Future Movies.
This week, we talk with Brad Dacus, founding president of the Pacific Justice Institute, a non-profit legal defense organization specializing in the defense of religious liberties, parental rights, and other civil liberties. Brad served as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Phil Gramm and then received his juris doctorate from the University of Texas School of Law. He went on to found the Pacific Justice Institute in 1997.Brad tells us about the work of the Pacific Justice Institute, and some of the most pivotal cases that he's worked on. Support the show (http://parentalrightsfoundation.org/donate)
Capitol Ideas: The Washington State House Democratic Caucus Podcast
Back in 2009, Washington State Rep. Timm Ormsby and Legislative Assistant Shannon Waechter were featured on the third-ever episode of a brand-new podcast called Capitol Ideas, talking about the teamwork necessary in a legislative office. We circle back today to find out what's changed, and what hasn't, now that 13 years have passed and, as chair of the House Appropriations Committee, Timm is the chamber's head budget writer.
The Kurdistan in America podcast is honored to have Ms. Ashti Waissi as its guest this month.Ms. Waissi is Legislative Assistant at the Canadian Parliament and a former staff assistant to the Co-Founder of the Parliamentary Friends of the Kurds Group, Mr. Tom Kmiec, MP for Calgary Shepard. She has a dual degree in Political Science and Sociology. Ms. Waissi's family is from Iranian Kurdistan, but she was born in a refugee camp in Iraq. She tells us her experience living in the camp and the challenges of integrating into Canadian society. She also shares some new and surprising information on the Kurdish diaspora in Canada.
In this episode of Liberty Chats, we speak with Drew Bond, co-founder of C3 Solutions. C3 Solutions stands for "Conservative Coalition for Climate Solutions." Emerging Leaders' Council Member Matt Melchior speaks with Drew about his work to prioritize free market solutions for climate change and environmental issues. Drew's decades of experience in the conservative movement and private sector have provided him the necessary prep to build a thriving organization. C3 also has an online magazine, C3 News Magazine, featuring original reporting and analysis on all things climate, energy, innovation, environment and more.Previously, Drew served as a Senior Advisor for President George W. Bush at the U.S. Department of Energy, Chief of Staff at The Heritage Foundation under Ed Feulner and as a Legislative Assistant to former U.S. Senator Don Nickles from Oklahoma.Recent episodes: Philip Wegmann: White House Reporter, Real Clear PoliticsElisha Krauss: Radio Host & PodcasterChristine Yeargin, Be the Village Founder
Andrew Regalado is Legislative Assistant in the office of U.S. Congressman Adam Kinzinger of Illinois. Andrew is also the Grassroots Director of Country First, a Political Action Committee that is a home for reasonable people of goodwill, seeking common ground to make our country better for future generations. We discuss how Andrew began to develop his political views, how he charted the first chapters of his career and why he gravitated to a leader like Rep. Kinzinger. We also discuss Country 1st and how the organization is addressing the priorities of “Opportunity for All, Climate and Conservation, Mental Health and a Culture of Service.”
Elizabeth Frame Ellison had endless professional opportunities upon graduating from law school, but she chose the less obvious one. Instead of the "typical" corporate or big firm career path, she chose to serve those who needed it the most. From her experiences in our broken justice system to her travels abroad to her love for her Tulsa community, Elizabeth is changing lives one dish at a time. Join us as we talk about:Everyone deserves a fighting chanceDifferent is great and deliciousEquity is inherently valuable and builds good businessFaking it til you make it... sort ofThe world is your oyster Get ready to pack your bags to head to Tulsa, Oklahoma.About ElizabethElizabeth Frame Ellison is the President and CEO of Lobeck Taylor Family Foundation (LTFF) in Tulsa, Oklahoma. In her eleven years leading LTFF, Ellison has founded Oklahoma's FIRST food hall, Mother Road Market (2018) as well as Tulsa's kickstart kitchen incubator, Kitchen 66 (2016). Ellison is also a founding partner of 36 Degrees North (2016), a co-workspace and basecamp for entrepreneurs in Tulsa's Arts District and a founding board member of Vest (2020).Ellison received recognition as one of Oklahoma's 40 under 40 and several awards for small business and entrepreneurial support. She has given several keynote addresses and served as a panelist at a Google conference on the future of food in 2017.Ellison received her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Classical Culture in 2004 and worked for Boren for Congress as the deputy finance director before joining Congressman Boren (OK Dist. 2) as a Legislative Assistant. In 2006, Ellison served as Political Director when her mother, Kathy Taylor, decided to run for Mayor and asked for campaign help. After a successful campaign, Ellison entered Law School at The University of Oklahoma. As the class President, Ellison was honored to give the commencement address at her Law School graduation. In 2012, Ellison was elected to serve as a school board representative for Tulsa Technology Center.When she isn't working, Ellison enjoys travel, culinary exploration, true crime novels and athletic activity alongside her husband Chris and their boys Taylor (9) and Wyatt (6). Ellison lives in Tulsa and San Francisco.Social: @elizabethframeellison
Welcome to Dirt NC where we talk all about the places and spaces of North Carolina and the people who make them awesome, I am your host Jed Byrne.Throughout my career in engineering, construction, finance, and development, I have covered just about all sides of the land use ecosystem. This show creates an opportunity for me to share what I have learned with you as well as introduce you to some of my friends, both new and old who are doing transformative work.With each episode of Dirt NC my goal is to make sure you walk away learning something new about land use. I promise to keep it simple and straight to the point.If you ever have a question for me, please reach out on Twitter at @OakcitycreToday I am interviewing Michael Rodgers, a project manager with DHIC INC, an affordable housing developer based in Raleigh. We talk all about a pretty amazing project that he has been working on, the Willard Street Apartments. Not only are The Willard Street apartments affordable, they are a part of a mixed use development that is also located in the downtown Durham core next to multiple forms of transit.Michael Rodgers joined DHIC's real estate development team in September, 2016. Michael directs rental housing development from the initial concept stage through project feasibility, design, financing, construction, and stabilization. He is also works on the financial structuring and underwriting of the development pipeline. Prior to joining DHIC, Michael was an Acquisition Manager at a non-profit tax credit syndicator where he was responsible for originating, underwriting, and closing tax credit developments across North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Georgia. He also worked as a Legislative Assistant in the legislative offices of the Virginia General Assembly. Michael is a graduate of the College of William and Mary and has a Masters of City and Regional Planning from UNC-Chapel Hill. He previously served on the Town of Carrboro Planning Commission. He is a member of Leadership Triangle class of 2019 and is Vice President of the Board of Directors for the Durham Co-op Market.Congrats again to Michael and the DHIC team on the delivery of a fantastic project, you can find more information about all of their work including the Willard Street Apartments at www.DHIC.org or connect with them on social media @DHICinc. I have also included links to the NC Housing Coalition Infographics in the show notes.As always, I am grateful that you have chosen to share this time with me! If you have comments/questions/suggestions about Dirt NC or anything land use related you can find me on twitter at @OakCityCRE and if you want a simple and to the point update on Raleigh commercial development you can subscribe to The Top Five, my free weekly newsletter at www.oakcitycre.comUntil next time, Thank you!https://nchousing.org/county-fact-sheets/https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-rodgers-56bb6515/
Chelsea Patterson Sobolik and Travis Wussow are both back around the table with Jeff Pickering for a wide ranging policy conversation about the ERLC's priorities for the Lame Duck Congress and then the Biden Administration.Then on the second half of the show, China expert Michael Sobolik joins us for a deep dive on Chinese Communist Party politics, history of the U.S. China relationship, and what it means for human rights advocacy today.This episode is sponsored by The Good Book Company, publisher of Searching for Christmas by JD Greear. Find out more about this book at thegoodbook.com.Guest BiographyMichael Sobolik is a Fellow in Indo-Pacific Studies at the American Foriegn Policy Council. His work covers American and Chinese grand strategy, regional economic and security trends, America's alliance architecture in Asia, and human rights. Michael also serves as editor of AFPC's monthly newsletter Indo-Pacific Monitor. His analysis has appeared in The Diplomat, The Hill, Jane's Defence Weekly, The National Interest, National Review, Newsweek, Providence, and RealClearDefense. Prior to joining AFPC, Michael served as a Legislative Assistant to Sen. Ted Cruz from 2014 to 2019 and managed his Indo-Pacific policy portfolio. While in the Senate, Michael drafted legislation on China, Russia, India, Taiwan, North Korea, and Cambodia, as well as strategic systems and missile defense. Michael is a graduate of Texas A&M University, where he also earned his Master of International Affairs degree in American grand strategy and U.S.-China relations at the Bush School of Government and Public Service.Resources from the ConversationConnect with Michael Sobolik at AFPCSign up for Michael's monthly newsletter, the Indo-Pacific MonitorRead more: How the Chinese Communist Party is persecuting Uyghur Muslims by Chelsea Patterson Sobolik and Michael Sobolik Listen: Bethany Allen-Ebrahimian of AXIOS on China's rising influence and the threat to human rightsRead the EIT Press Release: Evangelical Coalition outlines Immigration Policy Priorities for new Congress, Biden AdministrationCheck out The Good Book CompanySubscribe to ERLC's Policy Newsletter