Podcasts about legislators

How are Islamist networks attempting to gain influence in Texas?In this episode, Ariana Guajardo sits down with Selene Rodriguez, Campaign Director for TPPF's Defeating Islamist Radicalization campaign, to discuss the growing threat of Islamist radicalization. From foreign funding and campus organizations to the exploitation of legal loopholes, Selene explains how Islamist networks operate across Texas and why defeating them requires a coordinated approach that protects national security, strengthens education, and safeguards families.

In a rare moment of bipartisanship, two Washington legislators worked together to get UW to cancel their event with Hasan Piker. WA Attorney General Nick Brown responds to an invented controversy. Guest: RNC Dallas Spokesman Zach Kraft previews what's in store for the GOP midterm convention in Dallas next month. // LongForm: GUEST: Michael Russell Gunn is the Director of the new movie "The Brink of War," which chronicles the 1986 Reykjavik Summit between President Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. // Quick Hit: A former Fauci adviser plead guilty to attempting to cover up COVID-19 research records during the pandemic.

Why are young Americans giving up on dating, marriage, and family?In this episode of The Sweet Tea Series, Ariana Guajardo sits down with Hannah Bruck, Campaign Director for the Family Success Project at the Texas Public Policy Foundation and host of The Family Front podcast, to discuss the state of marriage, dating, and family formation in America.From dating apps to declining marriage rates, social isolation, and the growing fear of commitment, Hannah explains why young Americans are struggling to form lasting relationships.

Increase to bring Dutchess closer to neighbors There are 65 pre-K special-needs children in the Beacon City School District. But there are no physical therapists in Dutchess County who contract with the agencies that provide services for them. If a pre-K special education student in the district needs physical therapy, a parent or guardian must travel to Highland, across the river in Ulster County. "That is a barrier for many of our families," said Heather Chadwell Dennis, the assistant superintendent of pupil personnel services for the Beacon district. Dutchess County legislators voted unanimously on Monday (Aug. 10) to increase pay for preschool special education providers, a move meant to address the shortage. While public school districts in New York state coordinate services such as speech, occupational or physical therapy for special-needs students age 3 and up, the agencies or individuals who provide the services are contracted with and paid by the county where they work. The pay rate for providers in Dutchess — $60 for a typical half-hour session — has lagged for years behind neighboring counties (Ulster pays $80), leading providers to take better-paying opportunities elsewhere. The Legislature's vote increases the rate to $80 per half hour. "It's investing in our community and our kids," said Yvette Valdés Smith, the chair of the Legislature, whose district includes Ward 4 in Beacon. The increase will now go to County Executive Sue Serino for her signature. If she enacts the change, it will be retroactive to July 1. Sixty percent of the increased cost will be covered by the state. Another issue Chadwell Dennis has seen in Beacon is when a provider — who travels to the home, daycare facility or school to work with the child — only has time for one session when three children need services. In that case, the district will gather the children in a common space, such as a library, "because the provider can't get to three houses, but they can get to the library one time," she said. It's not an ideal scenario for the early-intervention services that educators say are critical for special-needs children to make gains in communication, thinking and social skills. The resolution was drafted by Legislator Emma Arnoff, who represents LaGrange, Pleasant Valley and Poughkeepsie and is the founder of The Sensory Space, a Poughkeepsie facility where children use sensory supports while participating in play therapy and psychotherapy. Superintendent Matt Landahl said during the Beacon school board's July 30 meeting that he was "elated" to see the increase on the table. Early intervention services for special-needs children provide "a life raft for families that are struggling with a really young child who is struggling," he said, calling it "a vitally important area" that has been overlooked.

Legislators also pass 'transparency' law Cornell Cooperative Extension and Second Chance Foods will receive $150,000 set aside last year by the Putnam County Legislature to aid programs to alleviate food insecurity. In approving the allocation on Tuesday (Aug. 5) of $100,000 to Cornell Cooperative and $50,000 to Second Chance, the Legislature required that at least $50,000 go to the Bountiful Meals program. The two agencies partner on the initiative, which distributes prepared meals to food pantries, libraries and senior centers like the Philipstown Friendship Center in Cold Spring. The organizations can also spend the funds on freezers, packaging and transportation. "Our neighbors who are struggling with hunger cannot afford to wait," said Martha Elder, executive director of the Brewster-based Second Chance. "We stand ready to begin." The $150,000 has been sitting in a contingency account since it was approved in November at the request of Legislature Chair Dan Birmingham. Since then, federal cuts have forced the shutdown of Meals on Main, a mobile food pantry that stopped at the Chestnut Ridge Apartments, Philipstown Friendship Center and the Brookside Senior Citizen Co-op in Philipstown. In addition, work requirements contained in the One Big Beautiful Bill signed last year by President Donald Trump are expected to cut the number of people receiving aid from the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. "More is coming down the pike," said Nancy Montgomery, who represents Philipstown and part of Putnam Valley in the Legislature, of additional cuts. "We will see dire circumstances." At Montgomery's request, the Legislature removed from the resolution a "whereas" clause noting that the loss of the mobile food pantry in Philipstown "has created an additional gap in food access in the western portion of Putnam County." Legislator Erin Crowley said she was "hesitant" about the allocation because the clause "makes this sound inequitable." The funding should not focus on "specific parts of the county," said Crowley, but be "about making sure that we're covering everybody who is in need, whether it's age, race, religion, politics, color and creed." A law approved by the Legislature on Tuesday codifies the county's practice of livestreaming meetings while requiring that the public be notified when legislators of the same political party hold caucus meetings. Although Legislature meetings have for years been streamed on the county's YouTube channel, and their recordings archived, the Transparency Act enshrines the broadcasts in the county code. Its mandate covers monthly full-board and committee meetings, and public hearings by the county executive. The law also requires that legislators "be heard, seen and identified at all times" during meetings, except for closed-door executive sessions. In addition, it addresses closed-door political caucuses, which allow legislators from the same party to deliberate privately on proposed laws and resolutions. Public notice for "meetings of political committees, conferences and caucuses … at which deliberations of county legislative matters are to be discussed" will be required. A public record of the legislators attending the meeting, as well as a "synopsis of such items of county legislative matters discussed," is also mandated. The Legislature has eight Republicans and one Democrat (Montgomery). The surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty will be eligible for a 50 percent reduction in their county property taxes under another law approved on Tuesday. Legislator Jake D'Angelo proposed the exemption, which is authorized under a state law enacted by Gov. Kathy Hochul in December. Cities, towns, villages and school districts also can exempt spouses. D'Angelo said it "reflects Putnam County's continued commitment to honoring the service and sacrifice" of police officers and "providing meaningful, long-term support to their fa...

Are Americans losing the ability and desire to read?In this episode, Ariana Guajardo sits down with Cameron Abrams, Policy Analyst for the Next Generation Texas campaign at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, to discuss America's declining reading habits and what the shift away from literature means for education and culture.From shrinking attention spans and algorithm-driven content to the decline of the Western canon, Cameron explains how technology has changed the way Americans consume information and why returning to the great books is essential to preserving our shared cultural inheritance.

After years of failing both students and educators, is it time to change the way we are teaching the teachers?In this episode, Ariana Guajardo sits down with Kate Bierly, Director of the Next Generation Texas Campaign at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, to discuss her latest research on schools of education and how they've failed both teachers and students.From grade inflation, declining academic standards, and ideological indoctrination, Kate explains how schools of education have changed over the past century and what Texas can do to prepare better teachers.Kate Bierly's research on Education Schools: https://www.texaspolicy.com/education-schools-low-standards-high-indoctrination-zero-results/

Legislators in House of Representative made major legislative strides on spending legislation this week before leaving for their August recess. Agri-Pulse's Olivia Bridges says Senate Majority Leader John Thune faces a challenging road to secure the same objectives.  The United Soybean Board has set its budget for the new fiscal year. 

Former employees want lower health costs Their incomes are fixed, but not the cost of health insurance. That was the message on July 16 when a group of retired Putnam County employees attended the Legislature's Personnel Committee meeting to beseech lawmakers to reduce the amount they and other retirees must contribute to their health insurance premiums. Jane Meunier-Gorman began working for Putnam County in 1985, when retirees paid a flat annual amount toward their health insurance and the county paid the rest. Annual premiums had risen to $200 [about $350 today] for individuals and $400 [$700] for families when the Legislature, citing the "burden on the taxpayers," in 2004 allowed the county to instead set rates based on each retiree's date of hire, age at retirement and length of service. Eleven years later, the Legislature approved pension-based contribution rates for six salary ranges, beginning at 8 percent for retirees whose annual pensions were $9,999 or less and rising to 30 percent for those paid $65,000 or more. (Lawmakers later added a seventh salary range by splitting the one covering pensions between $40,000 and $64,999.) "The feeling was that it was more equitable to look at pension amounts rather than just years of service," said Adriene Iasoni, a specialist with the Personnel Department, on July 16. "If you just look at years of service, you can have folks whose earnings are on the lower end, and they may be paying the same as somebody who's at a much higher annual salary." For the 2016 budget, the change raised the total amount pensioners would contribute to Putnam's estimated $4.7 million cost for insurance from $357,000 to $609,000. By 2025, retirees were paying $1.2 million of $7.9 million. This year, the county costs ballooned to $8.8 million, with Gorman and other retired employees paying $1.3 million. Their increases are "deeply troubling" and "place a significant and unexpected financial burden on individuals living on fixed incomes," said former county employees John Mulreany and Aileen Napolitano in a letter to the Legislature. Meunier-Gorman, who was president of the local Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) union when the Legislature adopted the contribution rates in 2015, said employees "were made promises. We were told that we would always have affordable health insurance through our employment with the county." Since retiring from the Health Department in 2024, Gorman said her annual pension is $50,000, and her bill for county health coverage is $10,000. "When I retired after 39 years, and I got my first bill, I couldn't even breathe," she said. "I was like, 'Oh my God, how am I going to afford this?' " Putnam recently created some breathing room for current employees. Legislators in December approved an agreement with Putnam's labor unions that lowered, from 30 percent to 17 percent, the share of health insurance premiums paid by new employees. County Executive Kevin Byrne forged the agreement with Putnam's four unions: the CSEA, the Putnam County Sheriff's Employee Association (jail guards and staff), the Putnam Management Association and the Sheriff's PBA (deputies). For CSEA employees, the share drops to 15 percent after 12 years and 10 percent after 15. Paul Eldridge, the county personnel officer, said the 30 percent rate was significantly higher than new employee contributions in Dutchess and Westchester (20 percent each) and Orange (16 percent) counties. He estimated that 225 employees would benefit, but the plan would add $865,000 to the $11.5 million Putnam allocates for health insurance premiums for current employees. Legislator Toni Addonizio, who chairs the Personnel Committee, voted against the pension-based contribution system established in 2015. She said Putnam "should consider how the other counties do the years of service" during continued discussions about retiree health benefits. "Many people have worked 25 years and still don't, in their retirement, receive $40,00...

How did Brooke go from numerous procedures and thyroid cancer to fighting for transparency and accountability for Texans on the policy side of healthcare?In this episode of The Sweet Tea Series, Ariana Guajardo sits down with TPPF's Brooke Garner, Policy Scholar of the Healthy Texas Initiative, to discuss her personal journey through America's healthcare system and why she's now working to reform it.Diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) at just 14 years old and later thyroid cancer at age 20, Brooke shares how insurance barriers delayed treatment, increased medical costs, and ultimately shaped her passion for healthcare policy. Together, they discuss the difference between healthcare and health coverage, why healthcare transparency and accountability matter, and the reforms Texas is pursuing to put patients back at the forefront of their health coverage.

Can the city really fine $915,000 for cutting down trees on your own property?In this episode of The Sweet Tea Series, Ariana Guajardo sits down with Laura Beth Latimer, attorney with the Center for the American Future (CAF), to discuss how local governments across America are increasingly overstepping their authority and what citizens can do to fight back.They dive into various cases from a California couple fined $915,000 for removing dead trees from their property to cities restricting religious gatherings in private homes and even banning people from feeding the homeless. Laura Beth explains why local government matters more than most Americans realize—and why protecting constitutional rights often starts at city hall.Topics covered include:-Local governments-California couple facing a $915,000 fine over backyard trees-Zoning laws can threaten religious liberty-The growing problem of government overreach at the local level-The Center for the American Future#PropertyRights #Constitution #LocalGovernment #Freedom #Texas #constitutionalrights The Center for the American Future: https://www.texaspolicy.com/initiatives/center-for-the-american-futureThe Texas Public Policy Foundation's mission is to promote and defend liberty, personal responsibility, and free enterprise in Texas and the nation by educating and affecting policymakers and the Texas public policy debate with academically sound research and outreach.Funded by thousands of individuals, foundations, and corporations, the Foundation does not accept government funds or contributions to influence the outcomes of its research.The public is demanding a different direction for their government, and the Texas Public Policy Foundation is providing the ideas that enable policymakers to chart that new course.Website: https://texaspolicy.comX: https://twitter.com/tppfFacebook: https://facebook.com/texaspolicyInstagram: https://instagram.com/texaspolicyLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/texas-public-policy-foundation/

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 146-points this morning from Thursday's close, at 45,500 on turnover of $14.8-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed lower Thursday after an earlier upturn was reversed when market sentiment became spooked by renewed geopolitical concerns as the United States and Iran launched fresh attacks. Selling focused on select large-cap liquid tech stocks as contract chipmaker TSMC faced heavier pressure, pushing down the Taiex. 86 Indonesian students awarded Taiwan scholarships Eighty-six Indonesian students have been awarded Taiwanese government scholarships to study in Taiwan this year. Before leaving, they attended a pre-departure orientation in Jakarta held by Taiwan's representative office there, covering student visas, residency procedures and campus life. Taiwan's representative to Indonesia, Bruce Hung, said more than 19 thousand Indonesian students are currently studying in Taiwan, making Indonesia the second-largest source of international students after Vietnam. Hung said Taiwan offers a strong Mandarin-learning environment and diverse (多種多樣的) higher education opportunities, and encouraged the students to learn more about the island's AI and semiconductor industries during their studies. Thailand Pub Fire Leaves Dozens Dead and Injured A huge fire that engulfed a pub in Bangkok overnight has killed at least 27 people and injured dozens more. Rescuers said the fire was reported around midnight Sunday, and firefighters brought the blaze under control early Monday. Footage shared online by first responders shows a huge blaze raging and plumes coming out of the front door of the pub in the northern part of the Thai capital. Thailand's prime minister told reporters at the scene that several people have been taken to the hospital. He says a musician who was performing at the pub told him that he saw smoke coming out of a circuit breaker (斷路器) near the stage before the power went out, then an explosion was heard and thick smoke quickly filled the venue Many of victims were found at the restrooms at the back of the pub. US Launches Strikes on Iranian Military Sites The United States Central Command has launched fresh strikes on Iranian military sites near the Strait of Hormuz, as Washington presses Tehran to guarantee safe passage for commercial shipping through the waterway. The escalation comes as the US political landscape shifts following the death of Senator Lindsey Graham, a prominent (著名的) foreign policy hawk who advocated for military action against Iran and strong ties with European allies. Jagruti Dave has the story from Washington. Syria NewlyElected Parliament Holds First Session Syria's newly elected parliament has held its first session since the ouster of former President Bashar Assad. The reconvening of parliament aims to restart the legislative process after years of conflict and autocratic rule. Two-thirds of the 210-member People's Assembly were elected while one-third were appointed by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The new parliament will serve a 30-month term. The launch indicates progress in drafting new laws as Syria recovers from decades of Assad's rule and a deadly war. Legislators elected Abdul Hamid al-Awak as speaker. Al-Awak, a former judge, defected from the Assad government early in the uprising (起義、叛亂). That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 今秋跟著楓紅展開最動人的旅程~ 日本紅葉祭限定！漫遊河口湖紅葉迴廊，或登上東北藏王紅葉纜車飽覽山林秋色 韓國賞紅葉x銀杏，韓服漫遊景福宮感受秋日浪漫 美加東必追楓葉大道，走訪尼加拉瀑布沉醉最美楓景 限量團位，快搜尋「可樂旅遊」與你分享世界的美好~ https://sofm.pse.is/9bdbbx -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Click on Fan Mail link and give me feedback. ThanksIn this episode of ABC's Parenting Adult Children podcast, host James Moffitt speaks with Kenneth Mims, founder of the Neurodiversity Education Research Center and Science Prep Academy. They discuss the importance of inclusive education for autistic learners, the challenges faced by parents and educators, and the innovative teaching methods employed at Mims' school. Kenneth shares his personal journey with autism, the societal changes in understanding neurodiversity, and the need for policy changes to support autistic individuals. The conversation emphasizes the importance of a strength-based approach to autism, the mental health challenges faced by autistic individuals, and the critical role of parents in advocating for their children.TakeawaysKenneth Mims emphasizes the importance of a strength-based approach to autism.Parents often go through a grieving process after a diagnosis.The Neurodiversity Education Research Center aims to advocate for policy changes.Society's understanding of neurodiversity has improved but still has a long way to go.Innovative teaching methods are crucial for supporting autistic learners.Mental health support is essential for autistic individuals transitioning to adulthood.Parents need to balance their expectations with their child's potential.Community engagement is vital for raising awareness about neurodiversity.Autism is often misunderstood as an intellectual disability, which is incorrect.Legislators need to be more aware of the needs of neurodivergent individuals.Sound bites"I discovered autism as a strength.""It's really just getting started.""Autism is an invisible disability."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Neurodiversity Education01:50 Inspiration Behind STEM Education for Autistic Learners05:39 The Evolution of Education for Neurodivergent Individuals08:05 Personal Experiences Shaping Advocacy and Teaching10:22 Innovative Education Models for Autistic Learners12:12 Understanding Autism in Classroom Behavior15:59 Media Representation of Autism20:11 Core Messages from A Mother's Guide to Autism22:31 Navigating Parental Emotions and Expectations27:39 Supporting Transition to Adulthood for Autistic Individuals32:31 Challenges in Workforce Integration for Neurodivergent Individuals35:48 Policy Changes Needed for Neurodiversity AdvocacyKennethMims.com – My WordPress BlogRichard Jones. I am an RN with over 34 years of Nursing Experience, much of that experience working with young adults in the corrections system.  Parenting Adult Children Call To Action Support the showSocial Media Links https://www.youtube.com/@abcparentingadultchildrenhttps://www.instagram.com/parentingadultchildren125/ https://www.tiktok.com/@chiefpropellerheadABC's of Parenting Adult Children Facebook Pagehttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581576308055 r/parentingadultchildrenFeel free to subscribe to these channels and share the links with your social media portals.

How can young Americans start using financial literacy today to set themselves up for financial success later in life?In this episode of The Sweet Tea Series, Ariana Guajardo sits down with Ashley B. Cash, education advocate, business owner, and host of The Ashley B. Cash Show, to discuss why financial literacy may be one of the most important life skills missing from today's education system.From budgeting and investing to homeownership, and retirement Ashley explains why financial literacy is essential for every student and how Texas is working to make it a graduation requirement.Topics covered include:-Why financial literacy should be taught in every high school-The biggest money mistakes young adults make-Budgeting, saving, and investing for beginners-How compound interest can change your financial future-Why delaying gratification builds long-term wealth-The difference between good debt and bad debt-Building multiple streams of income-How parents can prepare their children for financial success#FinancialLiteracy #PersonalFinance #Investing #Texas #Budgeting #FinancialFreedom

Money is coming to Acadiana. Lawmakers recently approved funding to build the new I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge in Lake Charles after state lawmakers gave the project priority status in the new state budget. Legislators also allocated millions to help the University of Louisiana-Lafayette with a budget deficit.  Christiaan Mader, founder of the Current in Lafayette, tells us more about the influx of cash headed to the region. Gov. Jeff Landry signed an executive order that he said will protect Louisiana's household utility customers from paying for the massive amount of energy needed to power AI data centers. Landry said the order establishes a framework that balances economic opportunity with consumer protection. Reporter Sam Karlin has been covering this story for the Advocate. He joins us with more.The LSU Cold Case project dives into unsolved crimes in Louisiana, particularly those that seem to be racially motivated during the Civil Rights era. This year, students looked into the killings of two World War II veterans, one who refused to give up his bus seat in Alexandria, Louisiana. The other, who was in the middle of a voting rights lawsuit, was killed in a bar scuffle.Current and former LSU students investigated this story. Three of them — Morgan King, Camille Milligan and Miguel Paredes Reyes — join us with more.—Today's episode of Louisiana Considered was hosted by Karen Henderson. Our managing producer is Alana Schreiber. We receive production and technical support from Garrett Pittman, Adam Vos and our assistant producer, Aubry Procell. You can listen to Louisiana Considered Monday through Friday at noon and 7 p.m. It's available on Spotify, the NPR App and wherever you get your podcasts. Louisiana Considered wants to hear from you! Please fill out our pitch line to let us know what kinds of story ideas you have for our show. And while you're at it, fill out our listener survey! We want to keep bringing you the kinds of conversations you'd like to listen to.Louisiana Considered is made possible with support from our listeners. Thank you!

If last week's episode left you wondering what you can actually do about data center development in your community, this week's episode is the flip side. Carolyn Woodard shares a new national workforce initiative just launched last week, then digs into the tools and resources available for nonprofits and community members who want to shape how AI infrastructure gets built - before it arrives, not after.She also closes with a look at what's happening in Europe and Africa, tying it back to an earlier episode on how where you are in the world determines the environmental footprint of your AI use, and why that makes local action matter globally.This episode covers:RAISE US, a new national nonprofit launched June 25 with bipartisan leadership from former Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and former Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb, has secured more than $500 million toward a $1 billion goal. Anchor partners include Amazon, Anthropic, Microsoft, and the OpenAI Foundation. If you work in workforce development in Arkansas, Connecticut, Maryland, or Utah, pay attention now, pilots are beginning.The Virginia legislature just wrapped its biannual budget, and the data center tax break fight made it in. Legislators kept the existing break but imposed a new tax on large data center companies to offset it with more to come next session. A local example of the policy battle playing out in real time, and ways that citizen involvement makes a difference in statewide policy.The Erin Brockovich Data Center Reporting Project lets citizens report data center problems - energy, noise, water - but also has a "Communities Making a Difference" map that documents real wins. Community organizing is working.41 mayors from six continents — representing more than 90 million people — signed the Global Urban Data Centres Pact at London Climate Action Week on June 23. About half the signatories are U.S. cities including Seattle, Chicago, Miami, Phoenix, and Palo Alto. They're setting common standards on clean energy, water use, and site selection, creating a benchmark for requirements for other cities and communities to use.Sierra Club's 2026 Data Center Policy Guidance and Good Jobs First's moratorium bill tracker (300+ bills across 30+ states) give you concrete tools to find what's happening in your state and how to plug in.Europe's record-breaking heat wave is straining data center cooling systems and sparking a movement toward European-owned AI infrastructure. The African Development Bank and UNDP have launched a $10 billion initiative so Africa becomes a producer of AI, not a consumer of tools built elsewhere. As Carolyn puts it: the Industrial Revolution took 30–40 years for communities to push back. We don't have to wait that long this time.Resources Mentioned:RAISE US – https://www.raiseus.aiErin Brockovich Data Center Reporting Project – https://brockovichdatacenter.comErin Brokovich Data Center Reporting Project - Victory Map https://brockovichdatacenter.com/community-and-legislation.html#mapCommunities Making a Difference – Brockovich Data Center Project – https://brockovichdatacenter.com/community-impact.htmlGlobal Urban Data Centres Pact – C40 Cities – https://www.c40.org/news/mayors-from-around-the-world-unite-in-call-for-sustainable-urban-data-centres/Sierra Club 2026 Data Center Policy Guidance – Sierra Club – https://www.sierraclub.org/issues/climate/data-centersData Center Moratorium Bill Tracker – Good Jobs First – https://goodjobsfirst.org/data-center-moratorium-bills-are-spreading-in-2026/Africa AI 10 Billion Initiative – African Development Bank – https://www.afdb.org/en/news-and-events/press-releases/african-development-bank-undp-and-partners-launch-ai-10-billion-initiative-during-2026-nairobi-ai-forum-91104Why Community Benefit Agreements Are Necessary for Data Centers – Brookings Institution – https://www.brookings.edu/articles/why-community-benefit-agreements-are-necessary-for-data-centers/ _______________________________Start a conversation :)Register to attend a webinar in real time, and find all past transcripts at https://communityit.com/webinars/email Carolyn at cwoodard@communityit.comon LinkedIn on reddit/r/nonprofitITmanagementon the Community IT websiteThanks for listening. 

State Sen. Ventura, D-Joliet, says legislature gave a 'hard no' to Bears' 'bluff.' Rep. Avelar, D-Bolingbrook, said it was 'hell no."Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/shaw-local-s-bears-insider-podcast--3098936/support.

We fear that legislatures are gridlocked and performative, rather than focused on actually passing new laws. But some legislators are consistently more effective than others, at the state and national levels. Can we train legislators to be more effective at advancing their bills? Mackenzie Dobson finds that training programs for state legislators don't make them more effective than their untrained colleagues. Most of the factors that make legislators more effective are structural: the competition between the parties and the positions they hold. Some of the common advice, find bipartisan partners and become an issue area expert, may not work everywhere.

I asked Save Family Farming's Dillon Honcoop if state lawmakers were aware of what their policy decisions were doing to the ag industry in this state?

How can parents protect their children in an increasingly digital world?In this episode of The Sweet Tea Series, Ariana Guajardo sits down with Senator Angela Paxton at the Texas GOP Convention to discuss child safety, parental empowerment, family policy, and the growing role parents play in shaping legislation.

【欢迎订阅】 每天早上5:30，准时更新。 【阅读原文】 标题：America's Social Security trust fund is disappearing. Legislators have just six years to fix things.正文：America's social Security trust fund for the country's elderly citizens is now more than old enough to be drawing a pension itself. When the programme launched in 1940, its future must have seemed assured. Lots of money went in and little came out: for each retired person drawing benefits, more than 150 workers were contributing to the fund, which invested in Treasury securities.知识点：drawing /ˈdrɔːɪŋ/v.（动词 draw 的现在分词形式）本义为 “画；拉；吸引”，外刊财经社保语境核心义为 领取（养老金、福利等）（本文特指符合条件的美国退休公民从社会保障信托基金中按月领取养老金福利）核心搭配：draw a pension、draw benefits、draw unemployment benefits、draw a salary、draw allowance・America's Social Security trust fund is now old enough to be drawing a pension itself. 美国的社会保障信托基金如今都已经到了该领养老金的年纪了。・Millions of elderly Americans rely on drawing Social Security benefits to cover their basic living expenses. 数百万美国老年人依靠领取社会保障福利来支付基本生活开支。获取外刊的完整原文以及精讲笔记，请关注微信公众号「早安英文」，回复“外刊”即可。更多有意思的英语干货等着你！ 【节目介绍】 《早安英文-每日外刊精读》，带你精读最新外刊，了解国际最热事件：分析语法结构，拆解长难句，最接地气的翻译，还有重点词汇讲解。 所有选题均来自于《经济学人》《纽约时报》《华尔街日报》《华盛顿邮报》《大西洋月刊》《科学杂志》《国家地理》等国际一线外刊。 【适合谁听】 1、关注时事热点新闻，想要学习最新最潮流英文表达的英文学习者 2、任何想通过地道英文提高听、说、读、写能力的英文学习者 3、想快速掌握表达，有出国学习和旅游计划的英语爱好者 4、参加各类英语考试的应试者（如大学英语四六级、托福雅思、考研等） 【你将获得】 1、超过1000篇外刊精读课程，拓展丰富语言表达和文化背景 2、逐词、逐句精确讲解，系统掌握英语词汇、听力、阅读和语法 3、每期内附学习笔记，包含全文注释、长难句解析、疑难语法点等，帮助扫除阅读障碍。

ThePrintPod: 146 new legislators, one crash course: Tamil Nadu's TVK govt prepares rookie MLAs for assembly debut

As legislators continue to pour more harmful laws and regulations on to the backs of farmers in Washington state, it begs the question, do they just not understand agriculture?

When contacting your legislators to discuss your concerns about the challenges facing farmers today, it's important to keep a level head.

The governor has a very good executive staff. But there's no substitute for a present governor. Legislators are generally a needy bunch. They see him on national TV during session and wonder why he isn't attending to them. That's simple Statehouse reality and has been forever.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/shaw-local-s-bears-insider-podcast--3098936/support.

The EPA has been gutted. Scientists are being sent home. NOAA is being dismantled. And in the middle of all this deregulation, our elected officials keep voting against what we actually want. So what do we do about it?On this episode of the Environmental Justice Lab, I sit down with Sadie Holzmeyer, National Organizing Director of the Digital Democracy Project — a nonpartisan nonprofit building a voter-driven system of government from the ground up.Sadie tells us how she went from a random Google search to living out of an RV, crisscrossing the country to build a movement that lets you — the registered voter — weigh in directly on the bills that shape your life, your community, and your environment. Using certified mobile voting technology, the Digital Democracy Project puts real legislation in front of real voters, with plain-language summaries, community-sourced pros and cons, organizational stances, and even an AI-powered VoteBot to help you cut through the legal jargon. The results? Public, transparent, and district-level — so your legislator can't claim they didn't know what you wanted.We talk about why this matters for environmental justice, how candidates running for office are vowing to use the platform to dictate their voting patterns, and why any politician who refuses to support this kind of direct voter input might just be telling you they're anti-democratic.From federal bills to state legislation, from Florida to all 50 states by 2027 — and maybe even beyond U.S. borders — the Digital Democracy Project is proving that democracy doesn't have to be a spectator sport.Finally, the call to action: Download the app, get verified, and start weighing in at digitaldemocracyproject.org. And if you're in one of the 43 states that doesn't yet have a state organizing director — maybe that's you. Think about it.Resources: The Digital Democracy Project WebsiteBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-environmental-justice-lab--5583745/support.Don't forget to subscribe and rate the podcast wherever you listen! Support our work by joining the Supporters Club: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-environmental-justice-lab--5583745/supportConnect with our Environmental Justice Lab community: Instagram: @envjusticelab YouTube: @envjusticelab Email: theenvironmentaljusticelab@gmail.com

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

How have America's universities gone from centers of learning to institutions facing growing questions about accountability, civic education, and student outcomes?In this episode of The Sweet Tea Series, Ariana Guajardo sits down with Dr. Tom Lindsay, Distinguished Senior Fellow of Higher Education at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, to discuss the state of higher education in Texas and across the nation.From grade inflation and declining academic standards to DEI, and the future of civic education, Dr. Lindsay explains how higher education has changed over the past several decades and why lawmakers, parents, and students are demanding reform.

Salt Lake Tribune writer Jason Batacao joined DJ to talk about his piece on the warning sent by the State of Utah Auditor to the University of Utah regarding the state of Utah Athletics' finances.

Jason talks about a Star Tribune report on records that showed some legislators advocating for services that turned out to be fraudulent. Even if they didn't know at the time, is it time for people to start losing their jobs?

Thursday 4pm Hour: Jason talks about a Star Tribune report detailing legislators advocating for services that turned out to be fraudulent? Should they be asked to step down? Will anybody truly be held accountable in state government? Then on DeRusha Eats, Jason wants to know what you think makes a good patio experience. Where's your favorite patio dining spot?

Sine Die and the end of session create a fervor of activity at the State's Capital! Vincent and Joel sit down and have a few drinks at Tin Roof across from the Capitol Building. As Senators and Representatives finish up session, they walk across the street, join in on the drinks, and answer some pressing questions for South Carolina's most informational insider political podcast - Bourbon in the Back Room! Hear insider legislators and staffers talk about how the sausage gets made. Get your latest Statehouse update and hear firsthand the rationale behind some of the General Assembly's controversial bills - and the topic on the top of everyone's mind, re-drawing districts mid election cycle!Support the showKeep up to Date with BITBR: Twitter.com/BITBRpodcastFacebook.com/BITBRpodcasthttps://bourboninthebackroom.buzzsprout.com

Arizona lawmakers have taken on an issue this session that's always touchy: giving themselves a raise. We turn to the one state that doesn't pay its lawmakers any salary. Plus, a new Netflix documentary goes inside an FLDS enclave in northern Arizona.

One fifth of the legislature is leaving. Why? Analysis from Blois Olson and Vineeta Sawkar on The WCCO Morning News

Future 42 Clark County has released its 2026 Legislative Scorecard, grading local state legislators from the 17th, 18th, 20th, and 49th districts on 12–15 key votes covering taxes, public safety, housing affordability, and regulations. Sen. John Braun led with a perfect 12-for-12 alignment, while Rep. Monica Stonier and Rep. Sharon Wylie each aligned on just 3 of 14 tracked votes. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/future-42-releases-2026-clark-county-legislative-scorecard/ #FutureClarkCounty #LegislativeScorecard #ClarkCounty #WashingtonState #VoterAccountability #Politics #Olympia ---

Legislators now have a financial framework from which to hammer out bills. An end-of-session deadline arrives this weekend given that lawmakers can't pass bills after Sunday. Leaders agreed to help HCMC and hospitals around the state, give property owners tax relief and put more money into infrastructure projects. The deal also increases funding for security concerns as well as anti-fraud measures.There are still many details about the signed agreement that are not yet known, and a small window left for lawmakers to get bills ready for votes.

Legislators now have a financial framework from which to hammer out bills. An end-of-session deadline arrives this weekend given that lawmakers can't pass bills after Sunday. Leaders agreed to help HCMC and hospitals around the state, give property owners tax relief and put more money into infrastructure projects. The deal also increases funding for security concerns as well as anti-fraud measures.There are still many details about the signed agreement that are not yet known, and a small window left for lawmakers to get bills ready for votes.

How did America's schools, media, universities, and cultural institutions become so radically different in just a few generations?In this episode of The Sweet Tea Series, Ariana Guajardo sits down with Mandy Drogin, Senior Fellow of Government Reform at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, to break down the history and strategy behind “The Long March Through the Institutions” — the decades-long effort by Marxist thinkers and activists to reshape Western culture from within.From Karl Marx and the Frankfurt School to critical theory, higher education, teachers unions, and modern culture wars, Mandy walks through how these ideas spread through America's institutions and why so many parents are now pushing back.Topics covered include:* The origins of the “Long March Through the Institutions”* Herbert Marcuse, Antonio Gramsci, and the Frankfurt School* How Marxist ideology entered universities and K-12 education* Critical theory, critical race theory, and cultural revolution* Teachers unions, academia, and institutional influence* The breakdown of faith, family, and Western values* COVID lockdowns, DEI, and modern political activism* Why parents and patriots are fighting backIf you've ever wondered, “How did we get here?” — this conversation connects the dots.Subscribe for more conversations on culture, politics, education, and the future of America.#Marxism #LongMarchThroughTheInstitutions #CultureWar #CriticalTheory #Education #Politics #TexasPolicy #SweetTeaSeries #WesternCivilization #CRT_________The Texas Public Policy Foundation's mission is to promote and defend liberty, personal responsibility, and free enterprise in Texas and the nation by educating and affecting policymakers and the Texas public policy debate with academically sound research and outreach.Funded by thousands of individuals, foundations, and corporations, the Foundation does not accept government funds or contributions to influence the outcomes of its research.The public is demanding a different direction for their government, and the Texas Public Policy Foundation is providing the ideas that enable policymakers to chart that new course.Website: https://texaspolicy.comX: https://twitter.com/tppfFacebook: https://facebook.com/texaspolicyInstagram: https://instagram.com/texaspolicyLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/texas-public-policy-foundation/

Last November, Calvin Duncan won an election to serve as the chief records keeper for the criminal courts of the parish that covers New Orleans.He received 68 percent of the vote, beating out a powerful incumbent. He has some personal experience with Louisiana courts. He was incarcerated for a murder conviction for 28 years. He studied criminal law to advocate for himself, and a judge eventually found him innocent. He was freed in 2011.But now, the Louisiana state legislature has moved to eliminate his position. State officials voted to combine his office with another in a move that state senators said was meant to save money. Duncan is taking legal action and a lawsuit over his role is now making its way through the courts. This situation is part of a larger trend across the nation where state legislatures are more and more often undoing decisions made by local officials.“State preemption” describes steps a state government can take to tell a local city or town council it can't do something. Legislators in states like Florida, Missouri, California, West Virginia, Michigan, and Louisiana have been using it to influence events and regulations in their communities.What's leading to more frequent, and public, fights between state legislatures and local governments? And what could defuse these fights?Find more of our programs online. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a.See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

In this episode of the Sweet Tea Series, TPPF's Ariana Guajardo sits down with Savannah Craven, creator of Her Patriot Voice and a major voice in the pro-life movement. The two discuss Savannah's viral “man-on-the-street” interviews, conservative living in New York City, and the cultural pressures surrounding abortion, feminism, and women's empowerment.

This year both the New Hampshire Legislature and U.S. Congress have been rocked by stories of misbehavior. When a legislator commits a crime, there is a clear process to determine wrongdoing, but the path forward is less clear when there are accusations of sexual misconduct, harassment, or verbal attacks. This article provides an overview of disciplinary options up for debate in the New Hampshire Legislature. Listen as hosts Anna Brown and Mike Dunbar, of Citizens Count break it down in  $100 Plus Mileage. This podcast is produced in partnership with Citizens Count, Granite State News Collaborative and The Marlin Fitzwater Center for Communications at Franklin Pierce University.

Friday 3pm Hour: two legislators were stopped for DWI - that's a problem. But the pontificating at the Capitol as though having a drink with lunch is a serious sin has Jason a little befuddled. He talks with listeners. Then Chris Hine from the Star Tribune joins the show to talk about the Timberwolves closing out the Nuggets in Game 6!

Post is where a movie becomes a movie. Where a TV show gets it's bells and whistles. The edit, the VFX, the color, the sound mix, the sound design, and everything in between. It's where everything comes together. And yet for years, California has had no standalone incentive to keep that work here. In this episode I sit down with Marielle Abaunza, President of the California Post Alliance and EVP of Business Development at Signature Post, to talk about AB 2319, the proposed standalone post-production tax incentive that could be game changer in helping keep jobs in LA. We get into:  How we took Hollywood for granted and where we go from here.  How 1,800 post jobs have been lost since 2012 and what that actually means for working crew.  What AB 2319 does and why the "shoot anywhere, finish in California" model is the shift the industry needs.  How New York netted $47 million in state revenue from post credits in a single quarter The people this bill protects are not Hollywood elites. They are editors and sound designers and post producers trying to log enough hours to qualify for health care. This is a movement. And there is not a lot of time. Go to www.californiapostalliance.org to join, donate, or submit a letter of support for AB 2319. Legislators read those letters. Your story matters!  Angle on Producers spotlights the magic makers in Hollywood. Hosted by Emmy-nominated producer Carolina Groppa, the show goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the craft, challenges, and unfiltered truths behind one of Hollywood's most essential, and often misunderstood, roles.  AOP SUBSTACK

Cameron is joined by Jessica Tocco, a government advising consultant and president of Shepherd Strategies, and they discuss the evolving landscape of medical aesthetics regulation. They highlight the challenges providers face, the importance of understanding their rights, and the need for active involvement in legislative processes. Jessica emphasizes the significance of education, advocacy, and grassroots efforts to ensure that the voices of medical aesthetics providers are heard in the regulatory arena.Cameron and Jessica talk about the critical aspects of compliance and safety in the medical aesthetics industry. They explore the importance of understanding state regulations, the rise of functional medicine, and the need for providers to maintain high standards of care. Jessica emphasizes the significance of being proactive in compliance and the potential growth areas within functional medicine, particularly in hormone treatments. They also highlight the challenges providers face in navigating regulations and the importance of empowering them to advocate for their industry.Listen In!Thank you for listening to this episode of Medical Millionaire!Takeaways:Providers must remember they are small business owners.The medical aesthetics industry has grown significantly over the last decade.Regulations are trying to catch up with industry growth.Providers have the right to speak to their elected officials.Fear of retribution should not prevent providers from advocating for their rights.Education is key to understanding the regulatory landscape.Grassroots involvement can influence legislation.Providers should be aware of their state regulations and scope of practice.Collaboration with organizations like AMSPA is crucial.Legislators often lack understanding of the medical aesthetics industry. Keep your house in order to avoid compliance risks.Understand the regulations surrounding pharmacy and medication in aesthetics.Join state-level associations for support and information.Ensure staff practice within their scope of practice.Be cautious with 1099 contractors to avoid liability.Functional medicine is a growing field with significant opportunities.Providers should be proactive in understanding state laws and regulations.Patient safety should always be the top priority in practice.Engage with legislators to influence industry regulations.Believe in your resources and capabilities as a provider.Medical Millionaire: The Blueprint for Scaling a World-Class Medical Aesthetics PracticeWelcome to Medical Millionaire, the go-to podcast for forward-thinking Medspa owners, Medical Aesthetics leaders, Plastic Surgery & Dermatology practices, Concierge Wellness clinics, and Elective Healthcare entrepreneurs who are ready to scale with intention and operate like a true, high-performing business.If you're building, growing, optimizing, or preparing to exit your aesthetics or wellness practice, this show is your competitive advantage.Hosted by Cameron Hemphill Your Guide to Sustainable, Scalable Growth Your host, Cameron Hemphill, is one of the most trusted growth strategists in Medical Aesthetics and Elective Wellness.With over 10 years in the industry, Cameron has helped scale 1,000+ practices and more than 2,300 providers, working alongside the most recognized KOLs, national brands, EMRs, tech companies, and private equity groups, shaping the future of aesthetics. From marketing to operations, from finance to leadership, Cameron brings a real-world, data-driven perspective on what it takes to turn a practice into a powerful business engine.What This Podcast Is All About: Each episode takes you behind the scenes of the fastest-growing practices in the country, revealing the systems, strategies, and mindset required to win in today's Medical Aesthetics landscape.Expect tactical insights, step-by-step frameworks, and conversations with:Industry thought leadersTop injectors & medical directorsEMR & tech innovatorsOperations expertsMarketing strategistsPrivate equity & M&A advisorsWellness and longevity pioneersThis is where aesthetics, business, technology, and wellness converge. What You'll Learn on Medical Millionaire Every week, you'll access expert guidance to help you scale profitably and predictably, including:Marketing & Brand PositioningCRM + Lead Management SystemsPatient Acquisition & ConversionEMR Optimization & Tech Stack ArchitectureSales Psychology & Consultation MasteryFinance, KPIs, and Practice EconomicsOperational Workflows & AutomationIndustry Trends Backed by Real Benchmark DataPatient Retention & Lifetime Value ExpansionMindset, Leadership & Team DevelopmentWhether you're opening your first location or running a multi-million-dollar enterprise, you'll gain the clarity and direction to grow with confidence. A Show Designed for Every Stage of Practice Growth Medical Millionaire breaks down the journey into four essential stages, showing you exactly how to move from one to the next:Startup – Build the foundation and attract your first wave of patientsGrowth – Scale revenue, expand services, and strengthen operationsOptimize – Increase efficiency, margins, and customer experienceExit – Prepare your practice for maximum valuation and acquisitionIf You're Ready to Grow, This Is Where You Start. Tune in weekly for actionable insights, expert interviews, and the exact playbooks high-performing practices use to dominate their markets. This is the podcast for Medspa owners who want more than a job; they want a scalable, profitable, industry-leading business. Welcome to Medical Millionaire.Let's build your practice into the empire it deserves to be.

Legislators gathered for a town hall April 14 in Sheridan.  Most of the evening was a question and answer about what happened during the session.  There were, however, two exchanges in which senators were asked why a list of bills did not get heard.  The stories shifted the more the evening wore on.  First, they ran out of time; then, it was blamed on the Majority Floor Leader and finally, the bills wouldn't pass to begin with. Senators weren't the only people changing their stories.  Gail Symons is attempting to explain away her column that asked Democrats to cross over to the Republican party.

A federal judge has declined to stop the Trump administration from halting more than $240 million in Medicaid payments to Minnesota. And state lawmakers return for the last leg of their session today after a holiday break.Those stories and more in today's evening update from MPR News. Hosted by Emily Reese. Music by Gary Meister.

South Carolinians were promised a small break — a two-month gas tax suspension — but lawmakers blocked it, keeping millions flowing into state coffers. Meanwhile, Germany shocks the world by planning 15 new nuclear plants and rebuilding the Nord Stream pipeline, defying US sanctions and challenging the dollar's dominance. Energy, politics, and money collide — what it means for you and the economy. Episode Summary: South Carolina Budget Madness: Billion-dollar surplus, no tax relief for waitresses or parents, and a blocked two-month gas tax break. Legislators prioritize revenue forecasts over real-life relief. Gas Prices & Policy: Gasoline prices remain high, echoing 2022 levels, yet lawmakers ignore temporary relief measures. Germany's Energy Rebellion: Fifteen new nuclear plants, lifting sanctions on Russian oil & gas, and plans to rebuild Nord Stream — signaling Europe's pivot away from US-dominated energy transactions. Petrodollar at Risk: Germany's move could destabilize the US dollar if other European nations follow suit. Trump-era foreign policy tensions loom as NATO dynamics face new strains. Global Implications: The US faces challenges to its economic and geopolitical influence as Europe explores energy independence. Key Quotes: “They got plenty of money… but they would like to have your money.” “German government just announced it's gonna build fifteen new nuclear power plants.” “Washington's gotta stop spending money. We're about to lose this printing press.” Suggested Social Media Post:

March 14, 2026On March 15, 1820, Maine joined the Union, with national repercussions.  Maine statehood was opposed by southerners worried that it would restrict enslavement in the South, With the opening of the Erie Canal in 1825 Maine men moved west, Owen Lovejoy of Maine, elected to the Illinois state legislature in 1854, became friends with up and coming lawyer, Abraham Lincoln, Legislators, many from Maine, who were worried they were losing their democracy, set out to stop the rise of Slave Power. They would form a new political party, the Republicans, Lincoln knew Maine was important to his presidential campaign. Lincoln won 62% of the vote in Maine, taking all eight of the state's electoral votes, and went on to win the 1860 election.Watch today's recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/g9TUa1Rwd6U?si=T8_KKcHQZElhpnZ-Get full, free access to Letters from an American here: https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/subscribeYou can also find me:Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hcrichardson.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heathercoxrichardson/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/heathercoxrichardson/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@heathercoxrichardson Get full access to Letters from an American at heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/subscribe

Bribery of a lawmaker used to be a straightforward retail transaction between the special interest briber and a specific bribee. But the Silicon Valley billionaires now invading rural America with hundreds of their exploitative AI data centers are out to buy state lawmakers in bulk.Instead of slipping cash-filled envelopes to individual politicos, tech giants like Amazon, Meta, and OpenAI, are putting up hundreds of millions of dollars in this spring's midterm elections to pay for the campaigns of candidates who pledge to back their intrusive, water-sucking, energy-wasting, AI schemes. For example, Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, has two super-PACs doling out $65 million to state and local politicians who will oppose any regulation of sprawling data centers he wants to impose on rural Texas and Illinois.Why such a barrage of corporate money in local legislative races? Because the countryside is aflame with fury that arrogant, avaricious AI profiteers think they're entitled to walk over local communities – so these locals are demanding that their legislators regulate or even ban AI data centers.Unable (or unwilling) to win political support honestly, the corporate giants intend to overpower the democratic will of the people by effectively bribing submissive legislators with campaign cash – or by funding opponents for lawmakers who refuse to be bought.Of course, bribers and bribees alike will piously pretend that the corporate ruse of buying government policy by buying legislative seats is technically not a bribe. But hello – rigging the system so billionaire donors can crush local democracy is not a “technicality.” If it looks, smells, and has the impact of a bribe… it is one.Do something!* To follow fights around the country and learn more about AI data centers, subscriber to Data Center Watch Briefing: datacenterwatch.substack.com* MediaJustice has developed a toolkit to understand and fight data centers, and were key in forcing a major setback to a planned data center in West Texas.Jim Hightower's Lowdown is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit jimhightower.substack.com/subscribe