Podcasts about organizers

Mary Lovell is a queer grassroots organizer, visual artist, and activist who has been fighting oil and gas infrastructure and for social justice for their adult life - living up in the Kitsap Penninsula they are working on their first book  and love working with people to build power in their communitiesWelcome to the Arise podcast. This is episode 12, conversations on Reality. And today we're touching on organizing and what does it mean to organize? How do we organize? And we talk to a seasoned organizer, Mary Lavelle. And so Mary is a queer, grassroots organizer, visual artist and activist who has been fighting oil and gas infrastructure and fighting for social justice in their adult life. Living in the Kitsap Peninsula. They're working on their first book and love working with people to build power in their communities. Join us. I hope you stay curious and we continue the dialogue.Danielle (00:02):Okay, Mary, it's so great to have you today. Just want to hear a little bit about who you are, where you come from, how did you land? I know I met you in Kitsap County. Are you originally from here? Yeah. Just take itMary (00:15):Away. Yeah. So my name is Mary Lovel. I use she or they pronouns and I live in Washington State in Kitsap County. And then I have been organizing, I met Danielle through organizing, but I've spent most of my life organizing against oil and gas pipelines. I grew up in Washington state and then I moved up to Canada where there was a major oil pipeline crossing through where I was living. And so that got me engaged in social justice movements. That's the Transmountain pipeline, which it was eventually built, but we delayed it by a decade through a ton of different organizing, combination of lawsuits and direct action and all sorts of different tactics. And so I got to try and learn a lot of different things through that. And then now I'm living in Washington state and do a lot of different social justice bits and bobs of organizing, but mostly I'm focused on stopping. There's a major gas build out in Texas and Louisiana, and so I've been working with communities down there on pressuring financiers behind those oil and gas pipelines and major gas export. But all that to say, it's also like everyone is getting attacked on all sides. So I see it as a very intersectional fight of so many communities are being impacted by ice and the rise of the police state becoming even more prolific and surveillance becoming more prolific and all the things. So I see it as one little niche in a much larger fight. Yeah,Yeah, totally. I think when I moved up to Canada, I was just finished high school, was moving up for college, had been going to some of the anti-war marches that were happening at the time, but was very much along for the ride, was like, oh, I'll go to big stuff. But it was more like if there was a student walkout or someone else was organizing people. And then when I moved up to Canada, I just saw the history of the nation state there in a totally different way. I started learning about colonialism and understanding that the land that I had moved to was unseated Tu Squamish and Musqueam land, and started learning also about how resource extraction and indigenous rights went hand in hand. I think in general, in the Pacific Northwest and Coast Salish territories, the presence of indigenous communities is really a lot more visible than other parts of North America because of the timelines of colonization.(03:29):But basically when I moved and had a fresh set of eyes, I was seeing the major marginalization of indigenous communities in Canada and the way that racism was showing up against indigenous communities there and just the racial demographics are really different in Canada. And so then I was just seeing the impacts of that in just a new way, and it was just frankly really startling. It's the sheer number of people that are forced to be houseless and the disproportionate impacts on especially indigenous communities in Canada, where in the US it's just different demographics of folks that are facing houselessness. And it made me realize that the racial context is so different place to place. But anyways, so all that to say is that I started learning about the combination there was the rise of the idle, no more movement was happening. And so people were doing a lot of really large marches and public demonstrations and hunger strikes and all these different things around it, indigenous rights in Canada and in bc there was a major pipeline that people were fighting too.(04:48):And that was the first time that I understood that my general concerns about climate and air and water were one in the same with racial justice. And I think that that really motivated me, but I also think I started learning about it from an academic standpoint and then I was like, this is incredibly dumb. It's like all these people are just writing about this. Why is not anyone doing anything about it? I was going to Simon Fraser University and there was all these people writing whole entire books, and I was like, that's amazing that there's this writing and study and knowledge, but also people are prioritizing this academic lens when it's so disconnected from people's lived realities. I was just like, what the fuck is going on? So then I got involved in organizing and there was already a really robust organizing community that I plugged into there, but I just helped with a lot of different art stuff or a lot of different mass mobilizations and trainings and stuff like that. But yeah, then I just stuck with it. I kept learning so many cool things and meeting so many interesting people that, yeah, it's just inspiring.Jenny (06:14):No, that's okay. I obviously feel free to get into as much or as little of your own personal story as you want to, but I was thinking we talk a lot about reality on here, and I'm hearing that there was introduction to your reality based on your education and your experience. And for me, I grew up in a very evangelical world where the rapture was going to happen anytime and I wasn't supposed to be concerned with ecological things because this world was going to end and a new one was going to come. And I'm just curious, and you can speak again as broadly or specifically if the things you were learning were a reality shift for you or if it just felt like it was more in alignment with how you'd experienced being in a body on a planet already.Mary (07:08):Yeah, yeah, that's an interesting question. I think. So I grew up between Renton and Issaquah, which is not, it was rural when I was growing up. Now it's become suburban sprawl, but I spent almost all of my summers just playing outside and very hermit ish in a very kind of farm valley vibe. But then I would go into the city for cool punk art shows or whatever. When you're a teenager and you're like, this is the hippest thing ever. I would be like, wow, Seattle. And so when I moved up to Vancouver, it was a very big culture shock for me because of it just being an urban environment too, even though I think I was seeing a lot of the racial impacts and all of the, but also a lot of just that class division that's visible in a different way in an urban environment because you just have more folks living on the streets rather than living in precarious places, more dispersed the way that you see in rural environments.(08:21):And so I think that that was a real physical shift for me where it was walking around and seeing the realities people were living in and the environment that I was living in. It's like many, many different people were living in trailers or buses or a lot of different, it wasn't like a wealthy suburban environment, it was a more just sprawling farm environment. But I do think that that moving in my body from being so much of my time outside and so much of my time in really all of the stimulation coming from the natural world to then going to an urban environment and seeing that the crowding of people and pushing people into these weird living situations I felt like was a big wake up call for me. But yeah, I mean my parents are sort of a mixed bag. I feel like my mom is very lefty, she is very spiritual, and so I was exposed to a lot of different face growing up.(09:33):She is been deep in studying Buddhism for most of her life, but then also was raised Catholic. So it was one of those things where my parents were like, you have to go to Catholic school because that's how you get morals, even though both of them rejected Catholicism in different ways and had a lot of different forms of abuse through those systems, but then they're like, you have to do this because we had to do it anyways. So all that to say is that I feel like I got exposed to a lot of different religious forms of thought and spirituality, but I didn't really take that too far into organizing world. But I wasn't really forced into a box the same way. It wasn't like I was fighting against the idea of rapture or something like that. I was more, I think my mom especially is very open-minded about religion.(10:30):And then my dad, I had a really hard time with me getting involved in activism because he just sees it as really high risk talk to me for after I did a blockade for a couple months or different things like that. Over the course of our relationship, he's now understands why I'm doing what I'm doing. He's learned a lot about climate and I think the way that this social movements can create change, he's been able to see that because of learning through the news and being more curious about it over time. But definitely that was more of the dynamic is a lot of you shouldn't do that because you should keep yourself safe and that won't create change. It's a lot of the, anyways,I imagine too getting involved, even how Jenny named, oh, I came from this space, and Mary, you came from this space. I came from a different space as well, just thinking. So you meet all these different kinds of people with all these different kinds of ideas about how things might work. And obviously there's just three of us here, and if we were to try to organize something, we would have three distinct perspectives with three distinct family origins and three distinct ways of coming at it. But when you talk about a grander scale, can you give any examples or what you've seen works and doesn't work in your own experience, and how do you personally navigate different personalities, maybe even different motivations for getting something done? Yeah,Mary (12:30):Yeah. I think that's one of the things that's constantly intention, I feel like in all social movements is some people believe, oh, you should run for mayor in order to create the city environment that you want. Or some people are like, oh, if only we did lawsuits. Why don't we just sue the bastards? We can win that way. And then the other people are like, why spend the money and the time running for these institutions that are set up to create harm? And we should just blockade them and shift them through enough pressure, which is sort of where I fall in the political scheme I guess. But to me, it's really valuable to have a mix where I'm like, okay, when you have both inside and outside negotiation and pressure, I feel like that's what can create the most change because basically whoever your target is then understands your demands.(13:35):And so if you aren't actually clearly making your demands seen and heard and understood, then all the outside pressure in the world, they'll just dismiss you as being weird wing nuts. So I think that's where I fall is that you have to have both and that those will always be in disagreement because anyone doing inside negotiation with any kind of company or government is always going to be awkwardly in the middle between your outside pressure and what the target demand is. And so they'll always be trying to be wishy-washy and water down your demands or water down the, yeah. So anyways, all that to say is so I feel like there's a real range there, and I find myself in the most disagreements with the folks that are doing inside negotiations unless they're actually accountable to the communities. I think that my main thing that I've seen over the years as people that are doing negotiations with either corporations or with the government often wind up not including the most directly impacted voices and shooing them out of the room or not actually being willing to cede power, agreeing to terms that are just not actually what the folks on the ground want and celebrating really small victories.(15:06):So yeah, I don't know. That's where a lot of the tension is, I think. But I really just believe in the power of direct action and arts and shifting culture. I feel like the most effective things that I've seen is honestly spaghetti on the wall strategy where you just try everything. You don't actually know what's going to move these billionaires.(15:32):They have huge budgets and huge strategies, but it's also if you can create, bring enough people with enough diverse skill sets into the room and then empower them to use their skillsets and cause chaos for whoever the target is, where it's like they are stressed out by your existence, then they wind up seeding to your demands because they're just like, we need this problem to go away. So I'm like, how do we become a problem that's really hard to ignore? It's basically my main strategy, which sounds silly. A lot of people hate it when I answer this way too. So at work or in other places, people think that I should have a sharper strategy and I'm like, okay, but actually does anyone know the answer to this question? No, let's just keep rolling anyways. But I do really going after the financiers or SubT targets too.(16:34):That's one of the things that just because sometimes it's like, okay, if you're going to go after Geo Corp or Geo Group, I mean, or one of the other major freaking giant weapons manufacturers or whatever, it just fully goes against their business, and so they aren't going to blink even at a lot of the campaigns, they will get startled by it versus the people that are the next layer below them that are pillars of support in the community, they'll waffle like, oh, I don't want to actually be associated with all those war crimes or things like that. So I like sub targets, but those can also be weird distractions too, depending on what it is. So yeah, really long. IDanielle (17:24):Dunno how you felt, Jenny, but I feel all those tensions around organizing that you just said, I felt myself go like this as you went through it because you didn't. Exactly. I mean nothing. I agree it takes a broad strategy. I think I agree with you on that, but sitting in the room with people with broad perspectives and that disagree is so freaking uncomfortable. It's so much just to soothe myself in that environment and then how to know to balance that conversation when those people don't even really like each other maybe.Mary (17:57):Oh yeah. And you're just trying to avoid having people get in an actual fight. Some of the organizing against the banger base, for instance, I find really inspiring because of them having ex submarine captains and I'm like, okay, I'm afraid of talking to folks that have this intense military perspective, but then when they walk away from their jobs and actually want to help a movement, then you're like, okay, we have to organize across difference. But it's also to what end, it's like are you going to pull the folks that are coming from really diverse perspectives further left through your organizing or are you just trying to accomplish a goal with them to shift one major entity or I dunno. But yeah, it's very stressful. I feel like trying to avoid getting people in a fight is also a role myself or trying to avoid getting invites myself.Jenny (19:09):That was part of what I was wondering is if you've over time found that there are certain practices or I hate this word protocols or ways of engaging folks, that feels like intentional chaos and how do you kind of steward that chaos rather than it just erupting in a million different places or maybe that is part of the process even. But just curious how you've found that kind ofMary (19:39):Yeah, I love doing calendaring with people so that people can see one another's work and see the value of both inside and outside pressure and actually map it out together so that they aren't feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of one sort of train of thought leading. Do you know what I mean? Where it's like if people see all of this DC based blobbing happening, that's very much less so during the current administration, but for example, then they might be frustrated and feel like, where is our pressure campaign or where is our movement building work versus if you actually just map out those moments together and then see how they can be in concert. I feel like that's my real, and it's a bit harder to do with lawsuit stuff because it's just so much not up to social movements about when that happens because the courts are just long ass processes that are just five years later they announced something and you're like, what?(20:53):But for the things that you can pace internally, I feel like that is a big part of it. And I find that when people are working together in coalition, there's a lot of communities that I work with that don't get along, but they navigate even actively disliking each other in order to share space, in order to build a stronger coalition. And so that's to me is really inspiring. And sometimes that will blow up and become a frustrating source of drama where it's like you have two frontline leaders that are coming from a very different social movement analysis if one is coming from economic justice and is coming from the working class white former oil worker line of thinking. And then you have a community organizer that's been grown up in the civil rights movement and is coming from a black feminism and is a black organizer with a big family. Some of those tensions will brew up where it's like, well, I've organized 200 oil workers and then you've organized a whole big family, and at the end of the day, a lot of the former oil workers are Trumpers and then a lot of the black fam is we have generations of beef with y'all.(22:25):We have real lived history of you actually sorting our social progress. So then you wind up in this coalition dynamic where you're like, oh fuck. But it's also if they both give each other space to organize and see when you're organizing a march or something like that, even having contingent of people coming or things like that, that can be really powerful. And I feel like that's the challenge and the beauty of the moment that we're in where you're like you have extreme social chaos in so many different levels and even people on the right are feeling it.Danielle (23:12):Yeah, I agree. I kind of wonder what you would say to this current moment and the coalition, well, the people affected is broadening, and so I think the opportunity for the Coalition for Change is broadening and how do we do that? How do we work? Exactly. I think you pinned it. You have the oil person versus this other kind of family, but I feel that, and I see that especially around snap benefits or food, it's really hard when you're at the government level, it's easy to say, well, those people don't deserve that dah, dah, dah, right? But then you're in your own community and you ask anybody, Hey, let's get some food for a kid. They're like, yeah, almost no one wants to say no to that. So I don't know, what are you kind of hearing? What are you feeling as I say that?Mary (24:11):Yeah, I definitely feel like we're in a moment of great social upheaval where I feel like the class analysis that people have is really growing when have people actually outright called the government fascist and an oligarchy for years that was just a very niche group of lefties saying that. And then now we have a broad swath of people actually explicitly calling out the classism and the fascism that we're seeing rising. And you're seeing a lot of people that are really just wanting to support their communities because they're feeling the impacts of cost of living and feeling the impacts of all these social programs being cut. And also I think having a lot more visibility into the violence of the police state too. And I think, but yeah, it's hard to know exactly what to do with all that momentum. It feels like there's a huge amount of momentum that's possible right now.(25:24):And there's also not a lot of really solid places for people to pour their energy into of multiracial coalitions with a specific demand set that can shift something, whether it be at the state level or city level or federal level. It feels like there's a lot of dispersed energy and you have these mass mobilizations, but then that I feel excited about the prospect of actually bringing people together across difference. I feel like it really is. A lot of people are really demystified so many people going out to protests. My stepmom started going out to a lot of the no kings protests when she hasn't been to any protest over the whole course of her life. And so it's like people being newly activated and feeling a sense of community in the resistance to the state, and that's just really inspiring. You can't take that moment back away from people when they've actually gone out to a protest.(26:36):Then when they see protests, they know what it feels like to be there. But yeah, I feel like I'm not really sure honestly what to do with all of the energy. And I think I also have been, and I know a lot of other organizers are in this space of grieving and reflecting and trying to get by and they aren't necessarily stepping up into a, I have a strategy, please follow me role that could be really helpful for mentorship for people. And instead it feels like there's a bit of a vacuum, but that's also me calling from my living room in Kitsap County. I don't have a sense of what's going on in urban environments really or other places. There are some really cool things going on in Seattle for people that are organizing around the city's funding of Tesla or building coalitions that are both around defunding the police and also implementing climate demands or things like that. And then I also feel like I'm like, people are celebrating that Dick Cheney died. Fuck yes. I'm like, people are a lot more just out there with being honest about how they feel about war criminals and then you have that major win in New York and yeah, there's some little beacons of hope. Yeah. What do you all think?Jenny (28:16):I just find myself really appreciating the word coalition. I think a lot of times I use the word collective, and I think it was our dear friend Rebecca a couple of weeks ago was like, what do you mean by collective? What are you saying by that? And I was struggling to figure that out, and I think coalition feels a lot more honest. It feels like it has space for the diversity and the tensions and the conflicts within trying to perhaps pursue a similar goal. And so I just find myself really appreciating that language. And I was thinking about several years ago I did an embodied social justice certificate and one of the teachers was talking about white supremacy and is a professor in a university. I was like, I'm aware of representing white supremacy in a university and speaking against it, and I'm a really big believer in termites, and I just loved that idea of I myself, I think it's perhaps because I think I am neurodivergent and I don't do well in any type of system, and so I consider myself as one of those that will be on the outside doing things and I've grown my appreciation for those that have the brains or stamina or whatever is required to be one of those people that works on it from the inside.(29:53):So those are some of my thoughts. What about you, Danielle?Danielle (30:03):I think a lot about how we move where it feels like this, Mary, you're talking about people are just quiet and I know I spent weeks just basically being with my family at home and the food thing came up and I've been motivated for that again, and I also just find myself wanting to be at home like cocoon. I've been out to some of the marches and stuff, said hi to people or did different things when I have energy, but they're like short bursts and I don't feel like I have a very clear direction myself on what is the long-term action, except I was telling friends recently art and food, if I can help people make art and we can eat together, that feels good to me right now. And those are the only two things that have really resonated enough for me to have creative energy, and maybe that's something to the exhaustion you're speaking about and I don't know, I mean Mary A. Little bit, and I know Jenny knows, I spent a group of us spent years trying to advocate for English language learners here at North and in a nanosecond, Trump comes along and just Fs it all, Fs up the law, violates the law, violates funding all of this stuff in a nanosecond, and you're like, well, what do you do about that?(31:41):It doesn't mean you stop organizing at the local level, but there is something of a punch to the gut about it.Mary (31:48):Oh yeah, no, people are just getting punched in the gut all over the place and then you're expected to just keep on rolling and moving and you're like, alright, well I need time to process. But then it feels like you can just be stuck in this pattern of just processing because they just keep throwing more and more shit at you and you're like, ah, let us hide and heal for a little bit, and then you're like, wait, that's not what I'm supposed to be doing right now. Yeah. Yeah. It's intense. And yeah, I feel that the sense of need for art and food is a great call. Those things are restorative too, where you're like, okay, how can I actually create a space that feels healthy and generative when so much of that's getting taken away? I also speaking to your somatic stuff, Jenny, I recently started doing yoga and stretching stuff again after just years of not because I was like, oh, I have all this shit all locked up in my body and I'm not even able to process when I'm all locked up. Wild. Yeah.Danielle (33:04):Yeah. I fell in a hole almost two weeks ago, a literal concrete hole, and I think the hole was meant for my husband Luis. He actually has the worst luck than me. I don't usually do that shit meant I was walking beside him, I was walking beside of him. He is like, you disappeared. I was like, it's because I stepped in and I was in the moment. My body was like, oh, just roll. And then I went to roll and I was like, well, I should put my hand out. I think it's concrete. So I sprained my right ankle, I sprained my right hand, I smashed my knees on the concrete. They're finally feeling better, but that's how I feel when you talk about all of this. I felt like the literal both sides of my body and I told a friend at the gym is like, I don't think I can be mortal combat because when my knees hurt, it's really hard for me to do anything. So if I go into any, I'm conscripted or anything happens to me, I need to wear knee pads.Jenny (34:48):Yeah. I literally Googled today what does it mean if you just keep craving cinnamon? And Google was like, you probably need sweets, which means you're probably very stressed. I was like, oh, yeah. It's just interesting to me all the ways that our bodies speak to us, whether it's through that tension or our cravings, it's like how do we hold that tension of the fact that we are animal bodies that have very real needs and the needs of our communities, of our coalitions are exceeding what it feels like we have individual capacity for, which I think is part of the point. It's like let's make everything so unbelievably shitty that people have a hard time just even keeping up. And so it feels at times difficult to tend to my body, and I'm trying to remember, I have to tend to my body in order to keep the longevity that is necessary for this fight, this reconstruction that's going to take probably longer than my life will be around, and so how do I keep just playing my part in it while I'm here?Mary (36:10):Yeah. That's very wise, Jenny. I feel like the thing that I've been thinking about a lot as winter settles in is that I've been like, right, okay, trees lose their leaves and just go dormant. It's okay for me to just go dormant and that doesn't mean that I'm dead. I think that's been something that I've been thinking about too, where it's like, yeah, it's frustrating to see the urgency of this time and know that you're supposed to be rising to the occasion and then also be in your dormancy or winter, but I do feel like there is something to that, the nurturing of the roots that happens when plants aren't focused on growing upwards. I think that that's also one of the things that I've been thinking a lot about in organizing, especially for some of the folks that are wanting to organize but aren't sure a lot of the blockade tactics that they were interested in pursuing now feel just off the table for the amount of criminalization or problems that they would face for it. So then it's like, okay, but how do we go back and nurture our roots to be stronger in the long run and not just disappear into the ether too?Danielle (37:31):I do feel that, especially being in Washington, I feel like this is the hibernation zone. It's when my body feels cozy at night and I don't want to be out, and it means I want to just be with my family more for me, and I've just given myself permission for that for weeks now because it's really what I wanted to do and I could tell my kids craved it too, and my husband and I just could tell they needed it, and so I was surprised I needed it too. I like to be out and I like to be with people, but I agree, Mary, I think we get caught up in trying to grow out that we forget that we do need to really take care of our bodies. And I know you were saying that too, Jenny. I mean, Jenny Jenny's the one that got me into somatic therapy pretty much, so if I roll out of this telephone booth, you can blame Jenny. That's great.Mary (38:39):That's perfect. Yeah, somatics are real. Oh, the cinnamon thing, because cinnamon is used to regulate your blood sugar. I don't know if you realize that a lot of people that have diabetes or insulin resistant stuff, it's like cinnamon helps see your body with sugar regulation, so that's probably why Google was telling you that too.Jenny (39:04):That is really interesting. I do have to say it was one of those things, I got to Vermont and got maple syrup and I was like, I don't think I've ever actually tasted maple syrup before, so now I feel like I've just been drinking it all day. So good. Wait,Mary (39:29):That's amazing. Also, it's no coincidence that those are the fall flavors, right? Like maple and cinnamon and all the Totally, yeah. Cool.Danielle (39:42):So Mary, what wisdom would you give to folks at whatever stage they're in organizing right now? If you could say, Hey, this is something I didn't know even last week, but I know now. Is there something you'd want to impart or give away?Mary (39:59):I think the main thing is really just to use your own skills. Don't feel like you have to follow along with whatever structure someone is giving you for organizing. It's like if you're an artist, use that. If you're a writer, use that. If you make film, use that, don't pigeonhole yourself into that. You have to be a letter writer because that's the only organized thing around you. I think that's the main thing that I always feel like is really exciting to me is people, if you're a coder, there's definitely activists that need help with websites or if you're an accountant, there are so many organizations that are ready to just get audited and then get erased from this world and they desperately need you. I feel like there's a lot of the things that I feel like when you're getting involved in social movements. The other thing that I want to say right now is that people have power.(40:55):It's like, yes, we're talking about falling in holes and being fucking exhausted, but also even in the midst of this, a community down in Corpus Christi just won a major fight against a desalination plant where they were planning on taking a bunch of water out of their local bay and then removing the salt from it in order to then use the water for the oil and gas industry. And that community won a campaign through city level organizing, which is just major because basically they have been in a multi-year intense drought, and so their water supply is really, really critical for the whole community around them. And so the fact that they won against this desal plant is just going to be really important for decades to come, and that was one under the Trump administration. They were able to win it because it was a city level fight.(42:05):Also, the De Express pipeline got canceled down in Texas and Louisiana, which is a major pipeline expansion that was going to feed basically be a feeder pipeline to a whole pipeline system in Mexico and LNG export there. There's like, and that was just two weeks ago maybe, but it feels like there's hardly any news about it because people are so focused on fighting a lot of these larger fights, but I just feel like it's possible to win still, and people are very much feeling, obviously we aren't going to win a lot of major things under fascism, but it's also still possible to create change at a local level and not the state can't take everything from us. They're trying to, and also it's a fucking gigantic country, so thinking about them trying to manage all of us is just actually impossible for them to do it. They're having to offer, yes, the sheer number of people that are working for ICE is horrific, and also they're offering $50,000 signing bonuses because no one actually wants to work for ice.(43:26):They're desperately recruiting, and it's like they're causing all of this economic imbalance and uncertainty and chaos in order to create a military state. They're taking away the SNAP benefits so that people are hungry enough and desperate enough to need to steal food so that they can criminalize people, so that they can build more jails so that they can hire more police. They're doing all of these things strategically, but also they can't actually stop all of the different social movement organizers or all of the communities that are coming together because it's just too big of a region that they're trying to govern. So I feel like that's important to recognize all of the ways that we can win little bits and bobs, and it doesn't feel like, it's not like this moment feels good, but it also doesn't, people I think, are letting themselves believe what the government is telling them that they can't resist and that they can't win. And so it's just to me important to add a little bit more nuance of that. What the government's doing is strategic and also we can also still win things and that, I don't know, it's like we outnumber them, but yeah, that's my pep talk, pep Ted talk.Mary (45:18):And just the number of Canadians that texted me being like, mom, Donny, they're just like, everyone is seeing that it's, having the first Muslim be in a major political leadership role in New York is just fucking awesome, wild, and I'm also skeptical of all levels of government, but I do feel like that's just an amazing win for the people. Also, Trump trying to get in with an endorsement as if that would help. It's hilarious. Honestly,Mary (46:41):Yeah. I also feel like the snap benefits thing is really going to be, it reminds me of that quote, they tried to bury us, but we were seeds quote where I'm just like, oh, this is going to actually bite you so hard. You're now creating an entire generation of people that's discontent with the government, which I'm like, okay, maybe this is going to have a real negative impact on children that are going hungry. And also it's like to remember that they're spending billions on weapons instead of feeding people. That is so radicalizing for so many people that I just am like, man, I hope this bites them in the long term. I just am like, it's strategic for them for trying to get people into prisons and terrible things like that, but it's also just woefully unstrategic when you think about it long term where you're like, okay, have whole families just hating you.Jenny (47:57):It makes me think of James Baldwin saying not everything that's faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it's faced. And I feel like so many of these things are forcing folks who have had privilege to deny the class wars and the oligarchy and all of these things that have been here forever, but now that it's primarily affecting white bodies, it's actually forcing some of those white bodies to confront how we've gotten here in the first place. And that gives me a sense of hope.Mary (48:48):Oh, great. Thank you so much for having me. It was so nice to talk to y'all. I hope that you have a really good rest of your day, and yeah, really appreciate you hosting these important convos. Well, first I guess I would have to believe that there was or is an actual political dialogue taking place that I could potentially be a part of. And honestly, I'm not sure that I believe that.

Siham LahmineOwner & Cultural Curator, Morocco's First Local >> Woman-Owned Culinary & Luxury Heritage ToursMorocco Travel Organizerhttps://adventuretravelmarketing.com/guest/siham-lahmineSiham Lahmine is the mastermind behind Morocco Travel Organizer. Recognized for her talents in luxury bespoke travel experiences, she creates fully immersive tours showcasing Morocco's highlights, cultural richness, and culinary delights. As a local expert, she leaves no stone unturned when it comes to exploring the country's uniqueness.Siham Lamine is a leading Moroccan cuisine expert with over 10 years of experience leading culinary adventures across Morocco and Fes. She has a deep knowledge and understanding of the country's culinary heritage and traditions, allowing you to experience them through her in-depth and immersive tours. Additionally, Ms. Lahmine brings travelers on a historic food journey across the Medina's souks. Finally, she has hosted renowned Chef Ainsley Harriot known for his BBC cooking game shows Can't Cook, Won't Cook, and Ready, Steady, Cook among other famous names.summaryIn this episode, Jason Elkins speaks with Siham Lahmine, a cultural curator and owner of Morocco Travel Organizer. They discuss the unique challenges faced by women in the Moroccan tourism industry, the cultural significance of food in Moroccan society, and Siham's personal journey from a passion for food to establishing her own culinary tourism business. The conversation delves into the importance of community, family influence, and the stories behind Moroccan cuisine, as well as the realities of working in tourism and advice for aspiring professionals.takeawaysSiham is the owner of Morocco Travel Organizer, focusing on culinary and luxury heritage tours.Women in Morocco face unique challenges in the tourism industry, often dominated by men.Culinary experiences are a way to share Moroccan culture and heritage.Food is a central part of Moroccan identity and community bonding.Siham's passion for food was influenced by her family, especially her mother and grandmother.Travelers appreciate learning about food stories and cultural rituals during tours.Traditional Moroccan dishes require time and effort to prepare, reflecting love and care.Siham emphasizes the importance of personality over formal tourism education in the industry.The role of women in tourism is evolving, but cultural expectations still pose challenges.Siham encourages aspiring tourism professionals to experience the industry before committing to it. Learn more about Big World Made Small Adventure Travel Marketing and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.

Why We Buy Organizers Before We DeclutterBuying organizers feels productive… but what if it's actually keeping you stuck?In today's episode, we're uncovering why we buy storage bins, baskets, and labels before we declutter — and the emotional weight hiding behind that habit.

Join Aaron and Danny for the final Recap episode of Season 2. We discuss our favorite things about "Weaving Intention Masterfully" with Tema Staig and the essential role of the art department. Three PAs (Clio Byrne-Gudding, Nalani Rodgers and Ethan Ravens) and Organizers join us for "United For Dignity" to talk about the vital role of a Production Assistant and how they started the first PA union. We recap Aaron's interview with sports producer and first time director Jon Hill in "Good Grief, Sports and Peace". Then we discuss our conversation with representatives from StayinLA (Cale Thomas and Noelle Stehman) on our final episode "No Place Like Home".

We are surrounded by intelligent devices and these increasingly use various AI interfaces and processing capabilities to support the needs of users. This episode of Utilizing Tech focuses on edge AI and AI assistants and agents with Olivier Blanchard of The Futurum Group along with Frederic Van Haren and Stephen Foskett. We have all used so-called intelligent assistants, starting with Apple Siri and Amazon Alexa and continuing with Google, Microsoft, and many others. These voice interfaces are increasingly functioning as agents, connecting with various data sources and tools to perform tasks on the behalf of the user. AI assistants have arrived at the same overall paradigm as AI agents, and there is an inevitable crossover between these technologies, as the best of breed components are adopted. The needs of AI assistants has also lead to an increase in availability of specialized processing on PCs and even personal devices, and this helps offload the tremendous need for power and space of AI applications.Guest: Olivier Blanchard, Research Director at The Futurum GroupHosts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stephen Foskett⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, President of the Tech Field Day Business Unit and Organizer of the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tech Field Day Event Series⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Frederic Van Haren⁠⁠⁠, Founder and CTO of HighFens, Inc. ⁠⁠⁠Guy Currier⁠⁠⁠, Chief Analyst at Visible Impact, The Futurum Group.For more episodes of Utilizing Tech, head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠the dedicated website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and follow the show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on X/Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on Bluesky⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on Mastodon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

“Carrera de los Muertos” is both a 5k to honor deceased loved ones, as well as a fundraiser for nonprofit UNO. Organizers say this year the race is especially meaningful, amid fear and uncertainty among Chicago's Latino community.

“Carrera de los Muertos” is both a 5k to honor deceased loved ones, as well as a fundraiser for nonprofit UNO. Organizers say this year the race is especially meaningful, amid fear and uncertainty among Chicago's Latino community.

“Carrera de los Muertos” is both a 5k to honor deceased loved ones, as well as a fundraiser for nonprofit UNO. Organizers say this year the race is especially meaningful, amid fear and uncertainty among Chicago's Latino community.

The All Local Afternoon Update for Tuesday, October 29 2025

Most of us have been told that if we want referrals, we should just ask for them. But, that approach can feel awkward.What if, instead of asking, you could design an experience that makes you naturally referable?That's exactly what my guest, Stacey Brown Randall, teaches. Stacey is the author of her new book The Referable Client Experience, and she's built a proven system to generate consistent referrals — without asking, without paying, and without gimmicky tactics.In this conversation, Stacey and I dig into:Why doing great work isn't enough to generate referralsThe three stages of the client experience — new, active, and alumni — and what to do in each oneThe difference between “work” touch points and “relationship” touch points (and how both matter)How to stay top of mind with clients after your work together is doneWhat speakers can do to create a “referable” experience for event organizersI especially loved Stacey's ideas for how we can nurture relationships in meaningful ways — like acknowledging that quiet voice of buyer's remorse with empathy and care, or sending a “You survived it!” gift to an event organizer after a big conference.These kinds of thoughtful, human touches don't just make you memorable — they make you referable.If you've ever wished more clients and speaking invitations came your way because people can't stop talking about the experience you create, this episode is for you.Tune in and start designing your own referable client (or audience!) experience.About My Guest: Stacey Brown Randall is the multiple award-winning author of Generating Business Referrals Without Asking, author of the forthcoming book, The Referable Client Experience (October 2025) and host of the Roadmap to Referrals podcast.Stacey teaches business owners how to generate referrals naturally...without manipulating, incentivizing or even asking.She has been featured in national publications like Entrepreneur magazine, Investor Business Daily, Forbes, and more. She received her Master's in Organizational Communication and is married with three kids.About Us: The Speaking Your Brand podcast is hosted by Carol Cox. At Speaking Your Brand, we help women entrepreneurs and professionals clarify their brand message and story, create their signature talks, and develop their thought leadership platforms. Our mission is to get more women in positions of influence and power because it's through women's stories, voices, and visibility that we challenge the status quo and change existing systems. Check out our coaching programs at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com. Links:Show notes at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/448/Get Stacey's new book The Referable Client Experience: https://referableclientexperience.com/Stacey's website: http://www.staceybrownrandall.com/ Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/quiz/Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/ Attend our 1-day in-person Speaking Accelerator workshop in Orlando: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/orlando/ Connect on LinkedIn:Carol Cox = https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolcoxStacey Brown Randall (guest) = http://www.linkedin.com/in/staceybrandall Related Podcast Episodes:Episode 62: Tired of Asking? A Better Way to Get Referrals with Stacey Brown RandallEpisode 442: [Part 2] Booked Without Burnout: Speaking Invitations that Come to You

As customers try to figure out how to present data to Agentic AI applications, many of them are realizing that it's time for the storage infrastructure team to step up and take a seat at the table. In this episode of Utilizing Tech, recorded live at NetApp Insight in Las Vegas, hosts Stephen Foskett and Guy Currier from The Futurum Group sit down with Ingo Fuchs, Chief Technologist for AI at NetApp, to explore the critical role of data infrastructure in supporting enterprise AI and agentic AI applications. As organizations move AI workloads into production, traditional infrastructures—especially storage teams—must take a more active role in enabling performance, efficiency, and governance. Ingo emphasizes the emerging needs for data quality, control, compliance, and currency, particularly as AI agents begin making decisions and interacting with sensitive enterprise data. The conversation highlights how NetApp's capabilities, such as AI Data Engine and native infrastructure integrations, enable real-time data pipeline management, enforce guardrails, and ensure consistent and secure data delivery. This shift represents a transformative intersection of storage, infrastructure, and AI operations, paving the way for scalable and reliable enterprise AI solutions.'Guest: Ingo Fuchs, Chief Technologist of AI at NetAppHosts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stephen Foskett⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, President of the Tech Field Day Business Unit and Organizer of the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tech Field Day Event Series⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Frederic Van Haren⁠⁠⁠⁠, Founder and CTO of HighFens, Inc. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Guy Currier⁠⁠⁠⁠, Chief Analyst at Visible Impact, The Futurum Group.For more episodes of Utilizing Tech, head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠the dedicated website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and follow the show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on X/Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on Bluesky⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on Mastodon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Small Business America's Muted Response to Tariffs. Gene Marks discusses how small businesses across industries like building materials, corrugated boxes, and machine parts report a "very muted" impact from tariffs. While members are seeing indirect price increases, these smaller domestic companies are generally not buying goods directly from overseas. Their strategy involves cutting overhead, absorbing increases, or passing costs to customers. Organizers confirm members are nervous but note tariffs have not yet caused a major impact, suggesting that "so far so good."

Glenn Beck Exposes No Kings Plot: This IS a Color Revolution! A new wave of No Kings protests kicked off across the country on October 18. Organizers claimed a whopping seven million people spontaneously rallied to protest President Trump's authoritarian policies. While many mocked white-haired Boomers holding absurd signs, the strategists behind color revolutions know the precise percentage of population involvement needed for a successful coup — and they're inching closer to that goal on American soil. Glenn Beck and renowned researcher Peter Schweizer trace the shadowy multimillion-dollar funding behind No Kings, revealing the who's who in left-wing activism: Tides, Soros, Rockefeller, Ford, Buffett, and Arabella. Peter's team at Government Accountability Institute uncovered a network infrastructure bigger than No Kings designed to create social destabilization. The evidence trail is there, but can Trump's FBI and DOJ stop the revolutionaries before it's too late? Watch this video at- https://youtu.be/U0ZK5Y8npfE?si=gf-X2MPygMxgSUQd Glenn TV Glenn Beck 1.6M subscribers 90,129 views Premiered Oct 22, 2025 ► Click HERE to subscribe to Glenn Beck on YouTube: https://bit.ly/2UVLqhL ► Click HERE to subscribe to BlazeTV: get.blazetv.com/glenn ► Click HERE to subscribe to BlazeTV YouTube:    / @blazetv   ► Click HERE to sign up to Glenn's newsletter: https://www.glennbeck.com/st/Morning_... Connect with Glenn on Social Media:   / glennbeck     / glennbeck     / glennbeck  

Dive into the heart of African innovation at Latitude 59 Nairobi.In this special series of the Power Talks Podcast, your host Ssuna Ronald brings you the most pivotal conversations from the event, sitting down with the founders, investors, and ecosystem builders who are shaping the continent's future.You'll hear directly from:A Latitude 59 Organizer, Kai Isand on the mission to connect Africa and Europe.Mike Strano, Co-founder of Yokwetu, building the "Netflix for Africa."Shawn Maraya, Founder of Sightseer, revolutionizing the construction industry.And Anil Atmarmani, a Partner at Antler, on betting on founders from day zero.Get an insider's look at the dynamic ecosystem of African startups and the visionaries driving progress.Whether you're a founder, an investor, or just passionate about where tech is headed, these are the game-changing conversations you need to hear.Subscribe to Power Talks wherever you get your podcasts.Executive Producer: Ssuna RonaldSound Engineer: Gumisiriza RichardArt Direction: Abdu Latif OkalangPowered By: Latitude 59
Connect via: ⁠LinkedIn⁠ & ⁠Instagram⁠For Inquiries: ⁠emailpowertalks@gmail.com⁠

More To The Story: On October 18, roughly 2,700 No Kings demonstrations took place around the US. Organizers estimated that 7 million protesters came out to denounce what they described as America's slide toward authoritarianism under President Donald Trump. That's right where More To The Story's Al Letson found himself this weekend. Al spoke with a handful of the thousands of protesters who attended to get a better sense of why they came out. Some had creative posters. Others wore inflatable costumes. But all of them told Al they were concerned about the direction of the country in a second Trump term. On a special episode of More To The Story, Al talks to No Kings protesters about Trump's immigration raids, threats to free speech, federal workers being fired, and fears about the future of democracy in America.Producer: Josh Sanburn | Editor: Kara McGuirk-Allison | Theme music: Fernando Arruda and Jim Briggs | Copy editor: Daniel King | Digital producer: Artis Curiskis | Deputy executive producer: Taki Telonidis | Executive producer: Brett Myers | Executive editor: James West | Host: Al Letson Donate today at Revealnews.org/more Subscribe to our weekly newsletter at Revealnews.org/weekly Follow us on Instagram and Bluesky Read: There Sure Were a Lot of American Flags at the “Hate America Rally” (Mother Jones)Listen: “Madness”: A Retired Brig. General Slams Trump's Military Power Grab (More To The Story)Read: I Returned to the Site of the Original “No Kings” Protest (Mother Jones)Listen: Taken by ICE (Reveal) Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Trey & Katie get a reality check about hiring closet organizers (and how that went off the rails fast) from Jake. Plus: safari date night outfits, the scoop-neck era, and how much those “simple” organizers actually cost. Function is a near-360 view to see what's happening in your body, and my first 1000 listeners get a $100 credit toward their membership. Visit http://www.functionhealth.com/TREY or use gift code TREY100 at sign-up to own your health.
 Download Cash App Today: [https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/5zhgqoej] #CashAppPod. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App's bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. See terms and conditions at https://cash.app/legal/us/en-us/card-agreement. Discounts and promotions provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit http://cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. Get $10 Off at BRUNT with code [CORRECTOPINIONS] at https://www.bruntworkwear.com/[CORRECTOPINIONS] #bruntpod  VISIT http://RO.CO/CORRECTOPINIONS Ro's Insurance Checker lets you know if you're covered for GLP-1s—for free. No paperwork, no hassle, no waiting on hold. Go to  http://ro.co/safety for boxed warning and full safety information about GLP-1 medications.  Subscribe to the channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL3ESPT9yf1T8x6L0P4d39w?sub_confirmation=1  

Jonathan Pulphus was a sophomore at St. Louis University in 2014 when Michael Brown, Jr. was fatally shot by a police officer.. He says his participation in the Ferguson uprising was central to his education. In his new book, “With My People,” Pulphus shares the lessons he learned as a young community organizer, reflects on what makes student activism distinctly powerful, and provides a blueprint for grassroots organizing.

When everything feels like it's unraveling, how do we know art still matters? In this episode, we explore the question: What use is art in a world on fire?Across movements, across generations—from Ella Baker's quiet revolution to Beckett's unexpected presence in a prison theater—this episode offers three simple, potent reminders of how art works in times of chaos: to notice, to connect, and to rebuild trust. Whether you're an artist, organizer, or simply someone searching for clarity, you'll find resonance in these stories.Discover how art helps us pay attention—to our world, our neighbors, and ourselves.Understand the power of creative trust—what happens when making becomes a shared act of listening.Explore how storytelling and performance can bridge divides, even behind bars or across ideologies.Press play to be reminded that in uncertain times, art doesn't just survive—it leads. Listen now and carry these three truths forward into your community.Notable Mentions:PeopleBill Cleveland: Host of Art Is Change and Director of the Center for the Study of Art and Community. (Learn more)Ella Baker: Civil rights activist whose words inspired Ella's Song. (Learn more)Bernice Johnson Reagon: Composer of Ella's Song and founder of Sweet Honey in the Rock. (Learn more)Judy Munson: Composer and sound designer for the podcast. (Learn more)Donald Trump: Referenced in the context of political polarization. (Learn more)Samuel Beckett: Playwright of Waiting for Godot; supported San Quentin production. (Learn more)Jan Jönson: Swedish director who brought Beckett's play to San Quentin. (Learn more)Jim Carlson: Prison arts advocate involved in the San Quentin project. (Learn more)Barney Rosset: Beckett's U.S. publisher. (Learn more)Donald James: Actor who played Vladimir in the San Quentin production. (Learn more)Reginald Wilson: Actor who played Estragon in the San Quentin production. (Learn more)Brian Boyd: Author of On the Origin of Stories. (Learn more)Voltaire: Philosopher often linked with the quote popularized by Spider-Man. (Learn more)Events & ProjectsWaiting for Godot at San Quentin: 1988 prison arts project with lifers performing...

Millions of people in over 2,700 cities and towns took part in No Kings Day protests across the country on October 18th. Organizers estimate that seven million took part, two million more than the same actions in June. From the streets of big cities to the squares and streetcorners of smaller towns, this was one of the biggest days of protest in U.S. history and highlights the vast unpopularity of the Trump administration's pro-billionaire and anti-worker policies as the government remains shut down and social programs continue to be cut but ICE raids won't stop terrorizing our communities.Signs, banners, chants and speeches on Saturday brought forward the call for a general strike as a way to defeat the ultra-right's agenda and to do more - to win back the rights we've lost and win rights we desperately need. Even Chicago mayor Brandon Johnson said at a rally, “If my ancestors, as slaves, can lead the greatest general strike in the history of this country, taking it to the ultra-rich and big corporations, we can the same today!”A general strike involving workers, students and all people from across society could change the course of events, directly challenge the Trump regime's ruthless and racist attacks, and even set the stage for a revolution. What would it look like and how would we get there? We'll talk about all that today.But first, last week we talked about how the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado was opening the door for renewed US military action against the Venezuelan revolution and government of Nicolás Maduro. Just a few days later, the Trump administration then said that it had authorized additional strikes on Venezuela, including on land, after it had already attacked six Venezuelan boats in international waters. Trump also announced that he has approved CIA covert actions in the country. While it's long been known that the CIA has been a tool in attempting to overthrow Venezuela's revolution under both Chávez and Maduro, the announcement of the use of CIA operations for regime change is unprecedented.Support the show

October 20, 2025; 6pm: Organizers for the nationwide "No Kings" protests estimate that over 7 million people attended over the weekend. Plus, James Comey files motions to dismiss the criminal case against him. Melissa Murray reports and is joined by Molly Jong-Fast, David Litt, Maya Wiley and Rep. Brendan Boyle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trump threated to send National Guard troops to San Francisco last week.  Organizers in the city say they won't take it lying down.  In this episode, we hear from Bay Rising's Jane Martin. Bay Rising is a regional coalition of grassroots organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area that works to build political power among working-class communities and communities of color. __ Subscribe to this podcast: https://plinkhq.com/i/1637968343?to=page Get in touch: lawanddisorder@kpfa.org Follow us on socials @LawAndDis: https://twitter.com/LawAndDis; https://www.instagram.com/lawanddis/ The post San Francisco Responds to National Guard Threats w/ Bay Rising's Jane Martin appeared first on KPFA.

Millions of Americans were in the streets over the weekend, rallying against President Donald Trump and his administration's latest authoritarian escalations. Organizers for the 'No Kings' protests said more than 7 million people turned out to more than 2,700 pro-democracy rallies across the country. Republicans tried their best to demonize the protesters saying the "hate America" demonstrations would be filled with radicals and violence. But, as it turns out, the protests were almost entirely peaceful. Chicago, Illinois, a focal point for the administration's crackdown on immigration, was just one of the cities that saw people gather in solidarity against Trump. So to talk more about the latest regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the back and forth on National Guard deployment, and what's really happening on the ground there, we spoke with Monica Eng. She covers Chicago for Axios.And in headlines, the Israel-Hamas ceasefire faces its first major test, Trump says he's ending financial aid to one of the country's closest Latin America allies, and the government shutdown stretches into a new week.Show Notes:Check out Monica's work – www.axios.com/authors/mengCall Congress – 202-224-3121Subscribe to the What A Day Newsletter – https://tinyurl.com/3kk4nyz8What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcastFollow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most generative AI work has been fairly general purpose to date, but it is far more effective to develop expert models focused on specific industries. This episode of Utilizing Tech features Arun Subramaniyan, founder and CEO of Articul8 AI, in conversation with Guy Currier and Stephen Foskett. According to Arun, an agent is a model with a set of tools plus data that has agency to be called and interact with other agents. If these agents are domain-specific they can perform tasks more effectively than general purpose agents at certain points in this chain. Agentic AI is able to accomplish tasks previously thought impossible, and these systems keep improving. But people remain responsible for using and managing these systems. Costs can rise significantly if AI is used improper, but it is possible to deploy it profitably. Companies that can combine domain expertise with a novel AI-powered application are breaking free from the pack.Guest: Arun Subramaniyan, CEO and Founder of Articul8 AIHosts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stephen Foskett⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, President of the Tech Field Day Business Unit and Organizer of the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tech Field Day Event Series⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Frederic Van Haren⁠⁠⁠, Founder and CTO of HighFens, Inc. ⁠⁠⁠Guy Currier⁠⁠⁠, Chief Analyst at Visible Impact, The Futurum Group.For more episodes of Utilizing Tech, head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠the dedicated website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and follow the show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on X/Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on Bluesky⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on Mastodon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Amber Taggard, founder of The Organizer Chicks, a professional organizing company that helps busy, overwhelmed women and entrepreneurs create functional, maintainable spaces—and reclaim their time and energy in the process.Through her team of 50+ “chicks,” Amber and her flock offer compassionate, judgment-free support with decluttering, downsizing, time management, and home transitions—all rooted in her background in clinical mental health.Now, Amber's mission to challenge the “Pinterest-perfect” lie of organization demonstrates her commitment to redefining what real, sustainable order actually looks like—without shame, guilt, or matching linen bins.And while raising four kids, running multiple business locations, judging on the entrepreneurial TV show The Blox, and writing a book, she's proving that systems don't have to be sterile to be life-changing.Here's where to find more:Facebook.com/theorganizerchicksInstagram.com/theorganizerchecksTiktok.com/theorganizerchicksTheorganizerchicks.com________________________________________________Welcome to The Unforget Yourself Show where we use the power of woo and the proof of science to help you identify your blind spots, and get over your own bullshit so that you can do the fucking thing you ACTUALLY want to do!We're Mark and Katie, the founders of Unforget Yourself and the creators of the Unforget Yourself System and on this podcast, we're here to share REAL conversations about what goes on inside the heart and minds of those brave and crazy enough to start their own business. From the accidental entrepreneur to the laser-focused CEO, we find out how they got to where they are today, not by hearing the go-to story of their success, but talking about how we all have our own BS to deal with and it's through facing ourselves that we find a way to do the fucking thing.Along the way, we hope to show you that YOU are the most important asset in your business (and your life - duh!). Being a business owner is tough! With vulnerability and humor, we get to the real story behind their success and show you that you're not alone._____________________Find all our links to all the things like the socials, how to work with us and how to apply to be on the podcast here: https://linktr.ee/unforgetyourself

Millions turned out across the country Saturday for a coordinated day of protest against Trump and his administration’s policies. A similar event in June brought out more than 5 million demonstrators, but organizers say the mobilization was even bigger this time. Ali Rogin speaks with Robert Weissman, co-president of the consumer advocacy group Public Citizen, for more on the protests. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy

Millions turned out across the country Saturday for a coordinated day of protest against Trump and his administration’s policies. A similar event in June brought out more than 5 million demonstrators, but organizers say the mobilization was even bigger this time. Ali Rogin speaks with Robert Weissman, co-president of the consumer advocacy group Public Citizen, for more on the protests. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy

This weekend, people across the country are taking to the streets for the second iteration of the “No Kings” protests. Organizers say they anticipate millions of protestors to attend thousands of demonstrations throughout the US. Republicans have called the protests “Hate America rallies” and have claimed they'll be attended by left-wing extremists. Erica Chenoweth, a political scientist who studies protest, social movements, and democracy,  joins the show to discuss who will really be attending the protests, and what Trump's attempts to criminalize resistance mean for our First Amendment Rights.And in headlines, former Trump national security adviser John Bolton is indicted, the Senate fails to end the government shutdown for the tenth time, and the admiral in charge of US military forces in Latin America ends his tenure early as US-Venezuela tensions continue to escalate.Show Notes:Check out Erica's work – https://tinyurl.com/33d7uvn5Call Congress – 202-224-3121Subscribe to the What A Day Newsletter – https://tinyurl.com/3kk4nyz8What A Day – YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@whatadaypodcastFollow us on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/crookedmedia/For a transcript of this episode, please visit crooked.com/whataday Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he dives into today's top stories shaping America and the world. In this Friday Headline Brief of The Wright Report, Bryan covers the planned “No Kings” protests across the U.S., Antifa-linked terrorism charges, IRS whistleblower Gary Shapley's new probe into leftist funding networks, major indictments involving voting machine companies, the arrest of former National Security Advisor John Bolton, and a surprising Pentagon media shake-up.   Nationwide “No Kings” Protests: Over 200 leftist groups — including Indivisible and the Communist Party USA — are coordinating mass demonstrations against President Trump. Organizers admit they're modeling the effort on past “color revolutions,” with foreign influence on Reddit shaping messaging and funding. Paid agitators and billionaire donors like George Soros and Christy Walton are also backing the events.   Antifa Terrorism Charges in Texas: Two Antifa members were indicted for a July 4th attack on an ICE facility that left a police officer shot in the neck. Bryan warns the group will likely appear at this weekend's protests.   IRS Whistleblower Targets Leftist Donors: Gary Shapley, who helped expose Hunter Biden's tax scandal, is now working with the Trump administration to investigate non-profits and mega-donors funding extremist groups. Democrats call it “revenge,” while Trump's team insists “no one is above the law.”   Voting Machine Scandals: Smartmatic was indicted for bribing foreign officials to win contracts abroad, while Dominion was sold and rebranded as “Liberty Vote.” Bryan calls for a return to secure, paper-based elections, drawing on his CIA experience hacking offline systems.   John Bolton Indicted for Leaking Secrets: Bolton faces 18 felony counts for retaining and transmitting classified CIA materials through personal email. Iranian hackers accessed his devices, endangering American operatives. Bryan says, “He traded lives for a book deal.”   Pentagon Restricts Media Access: Journalists walked out after new rules allowed revoking press credentials for soliciting classified info. Bryan calls it “a long-overdue correction” given partisan infiltration of the press.   China, Asia, and the Americas: Trump eyes aid to the Solomon Islands to counter China, supports Japan's conservative coalition, mediates peace between Thailand and Cambodia, and monitors troop mobilization in Venezuela.   Medical Breakthrough — Gut Health and Cancer: University of Pennsylvania researchers found that exercise boosts gut bacteria producing formate, improving cancer immunotherapy. Fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, and kefir may help patients recover faster.   "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32     Keywords: No Kings protest Indivisible color revolution, Antifa ICE attack Texas, Gary Shapley IRS Soros probe, Smartmatic bribery indictment, Dominion Liberty Vote sale, John Bolton indictment Top Secret leaks, Pentagon media rules transparency, Thailand Cambodia peace talks Trump, Venezuela drone strike, University of Pennsylvania gut bacteria cancer study

AP's Lisa Dwyer reports on the nationwide No Kings protests scheduled for this weekend.

Officials from Grady Memorial Hospital and other Atlanta health advocates are preparing for expected financial losses as a result of President Donald Trump’s Medicaid-funding cuts; Organizers have obtained all the permits needed to hold a second "No Kings" protest in Atlanta tomorrow Saturday, despite a brief setback at city hall; The State of Georgia has amassed nearly 15 billion surplus dollars, carrying over year over year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No Kings Day Rhode Island organizer Lev Poplow joins the show.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrew Klavan is a bestselling author and host of The Andrew Klavan Show on The Daily Wire. His new novel, After That, The Dark — the fifth installment in his acclaimed Cameron Winter series — is available for pre-order now at dailywire.com/klavan. Follow him on Instagram @theandrewklavan.​​IN THE NEWS: Hundreds of “No Kings Day” protests are set to take place across the country on October 18th, with the largest gatherings expected in Southern California. Organizers say the demonstrations are meant as a peaceful stand against what they call “authoritarian power grabs” by the Trump administration — continuing the momentum from earlier protests held in June. Meanwhile, in Portland, naked bike riders took to the streets in what they described as a “quintessentially Portland” protest against federal troops and government overreach.Get it on.Subscribe to The Adam Carolla Show on Substack: https://adamcarolla.substack.com/FOR MORE WITH ANDREW KLAVAN:BOOK: After That, The Dark Available October 28 (pre sale on DailyWire.com/Klavan)PODCAST: The Andrew Klavan ShowINSTAGRAM: @theandrewklavanFOR MORE WITH ELISHA KRAUSS: INSTAGRAM: @elishakraussWEBSITE: elishakrauss.com JOURNAL: https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/author/elisha-krauss/LIVE SHOWS: October 29 - Burbank, CANovember 6 - Boston, MANovember 7 - Buffalo, NYThank you for supporting our sponsors:BetOnlinehomes.comoreillyauto.com/adamPluto.tvSELECTQUOTE.COM/CAROLLASIMPLISAFE.COM/ADAMSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In real time, , we're seeing Trump's authoritarian forces moving to consolidate power with an "authoritarian playbook" used in the past and other parts of the world. While institutions like the Democratic Party, Harvard and Columbia and the nation's big law firms capitulate, we're seeing resistance from the streets of Washington D.C., Chicago, Portland and Los Angeles. As mass movements are forming to fight back, strategic coordination is needed. In our latest, Scott talks with long time organizer and strategic nonviolence trainer Nadine Bloch to discuss a new education project from the Freedom Trainers teaching an "anti-authoritarian playbook" of non-cooperation, non-compliance and mass disruption. Bio// As an activist artist, puppetista, strategic nonviolent trainer & organizer, Nadine Bloch works at the potent intersection of arts/culture & people power. Find her in Beautiful Trouble: A Toolbox for Revolution, Beautiful Rising: Creative Resistance from the Global South; We Are Many, Reflections on Movement Strategy from Occupation to Liberation; Education & Training in Nonviolent Resistance; SNAP:An Action Guide to Synergizing Nonviolent Action & Peacebuilding; and Waging Nonviolence. She is currently working with the Freedom Trainers. -------------------------

If you've ever been to the Portsmouth Halloween Parade, you know — it's one of the most connected nights in Portsmouth. People are a little kinder to each other, more curious, quicker to laugh and accommodate. It's so, so special. And this is just the beginning. From Monster Troupe to Thriller dancers, Mrs. Ropers, and countless imaginative costumes in between, creativity shines everywhere — inspiring even those who didn't expect to feel it. The night takes on a magical energy, a collective spirit we all help create, drawing us together in the most beautiful way. For years, I've wondered how this happens — how a volunteer-run, community-driven event flows so smoothly and joyfully. Why do even those of us who simply come to watch feel so deeply invested in its success? Amanda Giles gives her time each year to help make this incredible night come to life. In this episode, she shares her thoughts on where this energy comes from — and what it really takes to make the parade happen year after year. They say it's small groups of people who create real, meaningful change. To me, there's no better example of that than the Portsmouth Halloween Parade — a night filled with connection, creativity, love, joy, and community that truly changes the world, one October evening at a time. Listen in — and if you haven't been, come join us this year!   Here is the website for the Portsmouth Halloween Parade!  

Get ready for the most thrilling Halloween season yet! In an exclusive interview on the "Ash Said It Show," featuring Shane from Atlanta Bar Tours, it was officially declared: Atlanta is the Halloween Headquarters of the Southeast!This year, the city is set to host an unparalleled series of can't-miss Halloween parties, promising the ultimate celebration across the most exhilarating weekends. Unmatched Halloween Revelry Across Atlanta With a multitude of Atlanta's premier bars, clubs, and restaurants participating, attendees are guaranteed an unparalleled Halloween experience. Prepare for a spectacular display of amazing costumes, spine-tingling music, and ghoulishly good times that will transform the city's vibrant nightlife. Shane of Atlanta Bar Tours emphasized the meticulous planning to ensure every event delivers an unforgettable atmosphere for all. Your Essential Guide: Five Fantastic Halloween Parties in Atlanta! Organizers, including insights from Atlanta Bar Tours' Shane, have meticulously curated a definitive list of five fantastic Halloween parties that are the only events you need to attend this year. Each party promises a unique atmosphere, but all share the common goal of delivering a hauntingly good time for everyone. Whether you're seeking spooky fun, epic dance floors, or exclusive themed celebrations, Atlanta's Halloween lineup has it all. Prime Locations for Spooktacular Celebrations: These highly anticipated Halloween events will be taking place in some of Atlanta's most popular and accessible neighborhoods, ensuring a diverse range of experiences: * Midtown Atlanta: Known for its lively entertainment scene, Midtown will host several high-energy Halloween bashes perfect for urban revelers. * Virginia Highland: Discover unique and charming Halloween celebrations within this beloved and walkable district. * Buckhead Atlanta: For those seeking to celebrate Halloween in ultimate style, Buckhead will feature upscale and exclusive costume parties. Secure Your Spot! Tickets On Sale Now & Selling Fast! Tickets are on sale now for all featured events and are expected to sell out quickly. Partygoers are strongly encouraged to secure their tickets in advance to guarantee entry to Atlanta's most anticipated Halloween festivities. Don't miss your chance to be part of the Southeast's biggest and most thrilling Halloween celebration! Web: https://www.atlantabartours.co... Ash Brown: Your Ultimate Guide to Inspiration, Empowerment & Action Looking for a motivational speaker, authentic podcaster, or influential media personality who can spark your journey toward personal growth? Meet Ash Brown — a dynamic American powerhouse known for her uplifting energy, relatable wisdom, and unwavering commitment to helping others unlock their full potential. Ash is a:

'BradCast' 10-14-2025: Missouri Organizers Vow to Block Trump's Gerrymander from Taking Effect by Progressive Voices

At 12:00 Noon on Saturday, October 18, the people of the Capital Region will gather on Western Avenue between Fuller and Manning Boulevard for a nonviolent demonstration and march in collective celebration of their right to peaceably assemble, and to reaffirm, once again, that America has No Kings! More than 2600 No Kings events are planned nationwide. Organizers cite that the Trump administration is targeting immigrant families, profiling, arresting and detaining people without warrants; threatening to overtake elections; gutting health care, environmental protections, and education when families need them most; rigging maps to silence voters; ignoring mass shootings at our schools and in our communities; and driving up the cost of living while handling out massive giveaways to billionaire allies, as families struggle. Leyla Kiosse of Albany Indivisible and Mary Panzetta of We Get Out the Resistance previews the local event with Mark Dunlea for Hudson Mohawk Magazine.

At a packed Vancouver event on the National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk, Turning Point USA, Club America, and Firmly Planted Action leaders called on youth and church communities to “meet the moment.” Voices like Ruby Ruiz, Heidi St. John, and pastors Rich Blum and Sam Sanden urged courage, faith, and civic engagement. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/organizers-at-local-turning-point-usa-event-encouraged-by-young-leaders-in-the-community/ #TurningPointUSA #VancouverWA #YouthLeadership #ClubAmerica #CharlieKirk #HeidiStJohn #FaithInAction #ClarkCounty #CommunityEngagement #Politics

My client and friend introduced me to the concept of Boss October several years ago--and I loved it so much I make sure we do it every year. This year, we are going extra on it--and I'm talking about that and giving you practical ideas to go implement it for you as well.  Connect with Melissa at hello@proorganizerstudio.com  

Well, the Puerto Rico HBCU Classic is not happening this year, but I figured I would still post the interview to show the vision that went into the game and the efforts made to make it happen. Hopefully, it can get off the ground next year. :/

Be sure and join us on our Youtube Channel with our special guests, Darrell Sales & Frank Walsh from Santa Clara California. Both are veteran firefighters from the Santa Clara Fire Department. Darrell retired in 2013 as a driver engineer and Frank retired in 2000 as a Captain. Darrell & Frank have interesting nicknames which we will learn how that came to be. These gentlemen have a riding group that ride to honor the 343 and our Military. They are planning another memorial ride for the 25th anniversary. Tune in to hear all about the group, what they have done and what they are going to do. No doubt it's going to be a great ride and another great show. We will get the whole skinny. You don't want to miss this one. Join us at the kitchen table on the BEST FIREFIGHTER PODCAST ON THE INTERNET! You can also Listen to our podcast ...we are on all the players #lovethisjob #GiveBackMoreThanYouTake #Oldschool #Tradition #volunteerfirefighters #FDNY #nationalfallenfirefightersfoundation #baytobrooklynBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/gettin-salty-experience-firefighter-podcast--4218265/support.

Over 500 pieces of art were destroyed in a fire that ravaged a Red Hook waterfront building in late September. This weekend, despite the loss, the neighborhood will still host Red Hook Open Studios as scheduled and artists will open up their workspaces to visitors for free. Organizers and artists Deborah Ugoretz and Andrea Stanislav preview the event, and artists and business owners in Red Hook call in to share how they're coping after the fire.

WANT TO JOIN US FOR BOSS OCTOBER? Email me at hello@proorganizerstudio.com   In this episode, Melissa shares the second part of her mainstage presentation at the How To Summit in Dallas.   She discusses seven key insights for professional organizers, emphasizing a solid digital foundation over social media vanity metrics and the importance of community support. Melissa also highlights the value of understanding ADHD and neurodivergence to better assist clients and grow your business.    Additionally, she provides details about the upcoming changes to the Inspired Organizer program and invites listeners to join. Throughout the episode, Melissa encourages organizers to focus on sustainable business practices, value their email and customer lists, and find joy in their work.   00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update 00:31 Inspired Organizer Program Details 01:27 Starting the Main Presentation 02:14 The Importance of Clients and Digital Foundation 02:37 Social Media Realities for Organizers 06:14 Ownership of Your Business Assets 10:14 The Pitfalls of Comparison 14:18 Understanding ADHD and Neurodivergence 19:07 The Value of Community and Support 23:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Welcome! This week's guest is the amazing Denise Brown! Denise and Caleb talk growing up in the 70s, age-gap friendships, the KC Tenants union, pronouns, and much more! Get tickets to YEEHAW! here: https://www.ticketmaster.com/caleb-hearon-waxahatchee-yeehaw-a-benefit-kansas-city-missouri-10-02-2025/event/06006307ECE49819Join our Substack for an exclusive post-episode chat with Denise and other bonus content! https://calebsaysthings.substack.com/ Follow KC Tenants!@kctenats Follow the show! @sooootruepod Follow Caleb! @calebsaysthings Produced by Chance Nichols @chanceisloudCheck out quince.com/SOTRUE Head to https://www.squarespace.com/SOTRUE to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code SOTRUE.There's no replacement for human connection. Better with people. Better with Alma. Visit helloalma.com/SOTRUE to get started and schedule a free consultation today. Transform your living space today with Cozey. Visit Cozey.com, the home of possibilities, made easy.About Headgum: Headgum is an LA & NY-based podcast network creating premium podcasts with the funniest, most engaging voices in comedy to achieve one goal: Making our audience and ourselves laugh. Listen to our shows at https://www.headgum.com. » SUBSCRIBE to Headgum: https://www.youtube.com/c/HeadGum?sub_confirmation=1 » FOLLOW us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/headgum » FOLLOW us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/headgum/ » FOLLOW us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@headgum So True is a Headgum podcast, created and hosted by Caleb Hearon. The show is produced by Chance Nichols with Associate Producer Allie Kahan and Executive Producer Emma Foley. So True is engineered by Casey Donahue and engineered and edited by Nicole Lyons. Kaiti Moos is our VP of Content at Headgum. Thanks to Luke Rogers for our show art and Virginia Muller our social media manager.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

-- On the Show: -- Donald Trump openly admits that presidents are responsible for shutdowns while bragging about using this one to make irreversible cuts -- Trump slurs his speech, appears disoriented, and shows symptoms raising concerns of a possible stroke or other serious condition -- Trump delivers a bizarre speech to generals about gold paper, civil disturbances, and fake news while wasting taxpayer money -- Top military leaders criticize Trump and Pete Hegseth's chaotic meeting as a clown show and openly mock their weakness -- Gavin Newsom taunts Trump over his weight and hypocrisy, sparking debate about Trump's insecurities and false claims about himself -- Organizers plan over 2,100 “No Kings” demonstrations across all 50 states as protests test whether mass resistance can disrupt Trump's rule -- Trump shocks with threats to cut health care during the shutdown while rambling incoherently alongside Robert F Kennedy Jr and Mehmet Oz -- Multiple new polls show Trump deeply unpopular, collapsing on the economy and immigration, and increasingly propped up by a radical minority -- Trump's administration subsidizes coal in 2025 despite its economic collapse and health costs, clinging to nostalgia instead of reality -- On the Bonus Show: Trump shares a deepfake of Jeffries and Schumer, Republicans block an elected Democrat from taking office ahead of the shutdown, OpenAI prepares to launch an AI video app, and more…

We revisit a great show this week! Donavon Frankenreiter joins us from Hawaii and spreads all the chill beach vibes. From the great Canadian city of Toronto comes Donovan Woods to share his intimate brand of singer-songwriting. Nick also has a conversation with Zara Alexandra, (a singer-songwriter herself) who is the Organizer of the Colorado Chapter of the National Young Farmers Coalition, about the joys and challenges of working the land in these contemporary times.   That's all this week on eTown!   Visit our Youtube Channel to see artist interviews, live recordings, studio sessions, and more! Be a part of the audience at our next recording: https://www.etown.org/etown-hall/all-events/ Your support helps us bring concerts, tapings and conversations to audiences while fostering connection through music, ideas and community. If you'd like to support eTown's mission to educate, entertain and inspire a diverse audience through music and conversation, please consider a donation: https://www.etown.org/get-involved/donate-orig/.

This week, for nearly a century, the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival has staged a formal dance. Organizers rely on a manual that's been passed down for generations. Also, abortion is illegal in most cases in Tennessee. So, what happens after a birth? A photographer followed one mother for a year. And new prisons are touted as a way to bring jobs to former coal communities. Not everybody agrees the trade-off is worth it.

In part two of our series on private equity giant Blackstone, Scott talks ACCE San Diego director Jose Lopez about housing crisis in San Diego and Blackstone's role in it.Bio//Jose Lopez is the San Diego director for the Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment (ACCE). --------------------Outro- "Green and Red Blues" by Moody