Podcasts about policy director

John Maytham is joined now by Mike Allen, Policy Director at Focus Ireland, to discuss what Ireland is doing to make rental accommodation more affordable Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode features the audio from a NJN webinar, originally recorded on February 19, 2026, moderated by Hadar Susskind. The Knesset is currently considering a bill that would create a death penalty for Palestinians who kill Israelis, but not for Israelis who kill Palestinians. It circumvents basic rights like due process and equal protection, and exemplifies the racist mindset that animates the current Israeli government. This webinar provides an overview of the bill, the state of play in the battle to stop it from becoming law, and what this struggle can teach us about the fight for our values in Israel's current political climate. This webinar features Bentzi Sykora, the Policy Director at the Israeli think tank Zulat; Shira Ben Sasson-Furstenberg, the Israel Director of the New Israel Fund; and Rabbi Jill Jacobs, the CEO of T'ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights.

The Rod and Greg Show Daily Rundown – Tuesday, February 17, 20264:20 pm: Matt Germer, Policy Director in Governance at the R Street Institute, joins the program to discuss why he says it would be a good idea to slow the implementation of the SAVE Act for federal elections because of timing and administrative concerns.4:38 pm: Tim O'Brien, a contributor to PJ Media, joins Rod and Greg to discuss his piece about how the most recent meltdown from Hillary Clinton at the Munich Security Conference is just another in a long line of Hillary Clinton hissy fits.6:05 pm: Guy Ciarrocchi, political commentator and contributor to Broad and Liberty, joins the show for a conversation about how Marco Rubio has shown he wants to unite the United States and Europe.

Christian speaks to Leo Murray, Chief Executive of Riding Sunbeams, about his company's quest to connect Britain's railways directly to renewable electricity sources [01:30], Ian Brown CBE, Policy Director at Railfuture, about the campaign's aim for a bigger and better railway [16:30] and Chris Todd, outgoing Director at Transport Action Network, about the case for choosing rail, bus, active travel and road maintenance schemes over new highways [26:54]. Find 'Calling All Stations - the transport podcast' on social media channels here: X (formerly Twitter) - https://x.com/AllStationsPod  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/Calling_all_Stations_podcast/  Threads - https://www.threads.net/@calling_all_stations_podcast  Facebook - https://m.facebook.com/p/Calling-All-Stations-The-Transport-Podcast-61551736964201/ Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/callingallstations.bsky.social

Dustin Pugel is Policy Director at the Kentucky Center for Economic Policy, where he focuses on economic security, health policy and safety net programs while providing strategic support for all of the organization's policy campaigns. He joined the staff in 2015. Dustin previously worked for BUILD in Lexington, Kentucky where he trained congregations to identify, research and advocate for policy solutions on a local level. He also spent two years providing policy research assistance for the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities. He has a BA in History from Asbury University and a master's in public administration from the University of Kentucky.

Dustin Pugel is Policy Director at the Kentucky Center for Economic Policy, where he focuses on economic security, health policy and safety net programs while providing strategic support for all of the organization's policy campaigns. He joined the staff in 2015. Dustin previously worked for BUILD in Lexington, Kentucky where he trained congregations to identify, research and advocate for policy solutions on a local level. He also spent two years providing policy research assistance for the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities. He has a BA in History from Asbury University and a master's in public administration from the University of Kentucky.

Unifying a Partisan Nation Around NatureNature is Nonpartisan is a bipartisan, solutions-focused coalition working to unite Americans around shared environmental goals. By fostering cross-party support for conservation and land stewardship, the organization hopes to reframe climate action as a unifying national priority rather than a partisan fight. Establishing Nature as Middle GroundIn recent years, environmental politics in the U.S. have been paralyzed by partisan gridlock, stalling climate progress. Nature is Nonpartisan aims to break this deadlock by reframing environmentalism around common-sense values, such as safety, access to the outdoors, and community well-being. By engaging Americans across the political spectrum, the coalition seeks to depoliticize climate solutions and ground them in conservation principles that resonate more universally: protecting public lands, supporting disaster-affected communities, and ensuring access to clean air and water.This approach gained national attention in early 2025 when founder and CFO Benji Backer, alongside coalition members, briefed White House staff on nonpartisan conservation strategies. A meeting scheduled for fifteen minutes extended well over an hour, ultimately influencing President Trump's unexpected June 2025 signing of the “Make America Beautiful Again” executive order. The order focuses on conserving public lands, safeguarding wildlife, and securing clean drinking water. Backer underscored that wildfires, drought, and ecosystem collapse don't just affect the environment; they threaten billions in outdoor-recreation revenue and undermine the hunting, fishing, and farming traditions valued across political lines.Nature is Nonpartisan's narrative emphasizes that environmental protection is not only about climate, but also the American landscape, economic security, and the natural heritage millions rely on and cherish.Conservation as Climate ActionNature is Nonpartisan's work centers on four key conservation areas: managing forests to reduce wildfire risk, enhancing water quality and improving water infrastructure, enhancing natural disaster resilience, and promoting responsible land stewardship. Together, these priorities offer a practical, bipartisan path to protect ecosystems and communities most vulnerable to climate change.Overall, emphasizing conservation provides a widely palatable, bipartisan entry point into climate action. By restoring ecosystems, sequestering carbon, and protecting biodiversity, these efforts simultaneously strengthen local economies — particularly in rural regions dependent on recreation and natural-resource industries — while building long-term climate resilience. The Tension Beneath the SurfaceDespite its promise, Nature is Nonpartisan's work exists within a fraught political landscape. Environmentalism and conservatism are still often framed as ideologically incompatible, a perception the organization works actively to undo. While the “Make America Beautiful Again” executive order signals progress, critics argue it may be more symbolic than substantive, especially given President Trump's longstanding dismissal of climate science. Some fear the order could serve more as a political performance than a genuine environmental advancement.These tensions point to the broader challenge: decades of conservative skepticism toward climate science have made it difficult to ensure follow-through on policy. Nature is Nonpartisan hopes to continue confronting this distrust by reframing environmental protection around nationally shared values — family, future generations, clean water, clean air, and access to the outdoors — whether one is a Midwestern farmworker or a city resident.The Power of Words and Bipartisan PolicyCommunications Director Amelia Joy emphasizes that language is crucial to keeping these efforts genuinely nonpartisan. Because the word “climate” has become politically charged, Nature is Nonpartisan often avoids leading with it. Instead, Joy notes that many of the organization's core priorities, from wildfire prevention to natural disaster resilience, are climate issues, but by centering them in everyday terms, the coalition can build durable, cross-party support that can outlast any single administration.Policy Director Maya Cohn adds that progress doesn't have to depend on who is in office. She emphasizes that policy advances can happen under any president or Congress if people are willing to work across political lines. For her, bridging divides and having honest conversations, even with those you disagree with, is the only way to create long-lasting environmental solutions.About the GuestsAmelia Joy is the Communications Director at Nature is Nonpartisan and identifies as Conservative. Maya Cohn is the Policy Director at Nature is Nonpartisan and identifies as Progressive.ResourcesAbout — Nature Is NonpartisanEstablishing the President's Make America Beautiful Again Commission – The White HouseMake America Beautiful Again — Nature Is NonpartisanFurther ReadingQ&A: Meet the conservative working to make environmentalism nonpartisanFraming Climate Action as Patriotic and Status Quo-Friendly Increases Liberals' and Conservatives' Belief in Climate ChangeHow this group got Trump to sign a pro-environment executive order - The Washington Post  For a transcript, please visit https://climatebreak.org/unifying-a-partisan-nation-around-nature-with-amelia-joy-and-maya-cohn/

California is seeing a decline in crime rates across the state, especially when it comes to homicides. So why is this happening? That answer, as it turns out, is complicated. Guest: Magnus Lofstrom, Policy Director, Public Policy Institute of California A new state bill would raise taxes on for-profit companies that operate immigration detention centers in California. Reporter: Farida Jhabvala Romero, KQED US Congressmembers from California called for the removal of the Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, at a news conference outside of ICE's field office in San Bernardino Wednesday. Reporter: Anthony Victoria, KVCR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Naomi Feely is Policy Director with the Children's Rights Alliance. She chats with Susanne Rogers about two recent documents related to measures tackling Child Poverty in Ireland.  Breaking the Cycle: New Measures in Budget 2026 to Address Child Poverty and Promote Well-being Anois an tAm: Breaking Silos, Building Futures: Cross-Sector Action on Child Poverty  

The House Health and Human Services Committee will hear three bills related to transgender youth this afternoon.  Representative Rex Shipp is sponsoring legislation that would make a current moratorium, which stops minors from starting puberty blockers and cross sex hormones, permanent. The legislation would also require any minors still on puberty blockers or hormones to phase off of them by January 28th, 2027. Representative Rex Shipp joins the show to explain the legislation. Marina Lowe, Policy Director of Equality Utah, shares concerns around this legislation and others being considered during Utah's 2026 legislative session.

Join us on Texas Values Report with special guest Michelle Evans, Williamson County GOP Chair and guest host Jonathan Covey, Policy Director for Texas Values, as they discuss new pro-life laws in Texas. Governor Greg Abbott signs HB 7 banning chemical abortions in Texas https://txvalues.org/breaking-governor-abbott-signs-law-to-stop-illegal-trafficking-of-abortion-drugs-in-texas/ Governor Greg Abbott signs SB 33 Banning Taxpayer Dollars for Abortion Logistics https://txvalues.org/breaking-governor-abbott-signs-law-banning-taxpayer-dollars-for-abortion-logistics/ Watch SB 33 bill signing ceremony with Governor Greg Abbott https://youtu.be/xWXepYZboH0 Join us at Texas Values Reception after the Texas Rally for Life on Saturday, January 24 from 3-5pm https://www.facebook.com/share/1AbLujdXqo/ (stay tuned for updates pending weather conditions) Join Williamson County GOP at the Golden Age Gala this Saturday at 6pm. https://www.facebook.com/share/17sX583job/ 2026 Primary Elections are right around the corner (Election Day: March 3). Get your free voter's guide today! http://freevotersguide.com Help us build our channel so we can maintain a culture of Faith, Family, & Freedom in Texas by interacting with us; like, comment, share, subscribe! For more about Texas Values see: Txvalues.org To support our work, go to donate.txvalues.org/GivetoTexasValues

This episode of bLine heads to J-Day, an annual celebration of cannabis culture and a protest against Aotearoa's current cannabis legislation. We spoke with the people at J-Day about what the event represented to them and why cannabis should be legalised. After J-Day, we headed back to the studio to speak with some experts about the ramifications of cannabis criminalisation.  Thanks to all of our guests, everyone who spoke with us at J-Day, PhD candidate at the University of Otago, Wetini Rapana, and Policy Director at the New Zealand Drug Foundation, Jacek Kolodziej. Happy listening!

This week on Rising Up For Justice, Jim Walsh, Policy Director for Food & Water Watch joins us.

This week on Rising Up For Justice, Jim Walsh, Policy Director for Food & Water Watch joins us.

Within the government's new road safety strategy, they have identified a number of areas they'd like to hear people's views on in order to make the UK's roads safer. One of these is whether or not to introduce compulsory eye testing for drivers who are over 70. In Touch discusses this idea with Lilian Greenwood, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary at the Department for Transport, Dr Peter Hampson who is the Clinical and Policy Director at the Association of Optometrists and with the Macular Society's Director of Services, Jessica Kirby. To participate in the government's consultation on this issue, visit: gov.uk/government/consultations/introducing-mandatory-eyesight-testing-for-older-drivers In Touch also spotlights a project that aims to get more visually impaired people involved in the music industry, be that as performers or on the technical side of things. The project is called Sound Without Sight, and this week they are hosting a Q&A session with the highly successful blind singer, producer and campaigner Lachi. In Touch is joined by Lachi and Jay Pocknell, the project lead of Sound Without Sight and current music student Oscar King, who receives some pearls of wisdom from Lachi.Lachi will soon be releasing a new book called 'I Identify as Blind', where she discusses disability identity, neurodivergence, and embracing difference, with joy, humour, and passion. More information on her book can be found at: lachimusic.com/i-identify-as-blindPresenter: Peter White Producer: Beth Hemmings Production Coordinator: Helen Surtees Website image description: Peter White sits smiling in the centre of the image and he is wearing a dark green jumper. Above Peter's head is the BBC logo (three separate white squares house each of the three letters). Bottom centre and overlaying the image are the words "In Touch" and the Radio 4 logo (the word ‘radio' in a bold white font, with the number 4 inside of a white circle). The background is a bright mid-blue with two rectangles angled diagonally to the right. Both are behind Peter, one is a darker blue and the other is a lighter blue.

"From the Frontlines" is an ADL podcast which brings listeners to the frontline in the battle against antisemitism, hate and extremism through conversations with ADL staff who are living that battle every day. The past few years have seen an extraordinary rise in antisemitism as captured by ADL's Annual Audit of Antisemitic Incidents which basically shows a tripling of incidents nationwide since 10/7. Nowhere is that more evident than in New York and New Jersey which together account for more than 20% of incidents across the United States. Serious action needs to be taken. One step that has proven effective around the globe is the use of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance Working Definition of Antisemitism or IHRA for short. What is it? Why do we need it? and How can we make sure our states use it as an effective tool against antisemitism? is the subject of this podcast. It is an edited version of a webinar put on the by the ADL Long Island and ADL New Jersey activist groups in January 2026. It features two outstanding ADL colleagues: 1. Dan Granot, ADL's Senior Director of Government Relations and Community engagement out of ADL's Washington DC office. 2. Melissa Kraus Augenbraun, ADL's Policy Director for the East Division. To read more about the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism and ADL's views on it, visit https://www.adl.org/resources/backgrounder/about-ihra-working-definition-antisemitism.

Doug McHoney (PwC's International Tax Services Global Leader) is joined by Beth Bell, a Principal in PwC's Washington National Tax Services Policy Office. She previously served as a Senior Advisor to the US Treasury Department, Tax Counsel for the US House Committee on Ways and Means, and Policy Director and Tax Counsel in the United States Senate. Doug and Beth discuss the OECD's January 2026 side‑by‑side package: why consensus formed, how the side‑by‑side and UPE safe harbors operate, and why QDMTTs are taking center stage. They cover the simplified ETR safe harbor, the one‑year extension of the transitional CbCR safe harbor, elections and 2024–2025 compliance, enacted‑law accounting effects, the key footnote on UTPR allocation, and the new qualified tax incentives safe harbor, including both expenditure-based and production‑based credits, plus implications for inbound investment and the 2029 stocktake. 

Jon Towers is Policy Director at Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck where he is a strategist and advisor to top government officials and institutions, with years of experience serving The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Mike Petrusky asks Jon about the significant challenges facing the VA as it manages its vast portfolio of assets, including many aging and outdated facilities. They explore how technology, including AI and worktech solutions, can play a crucial role in helping the federal government optimize its assets and improve efficiency. The modernization of VA facilities must be a priority, so Jon emphasizes the need to configure real estate assets to meet the changing needs of veterans across the country. Engagement and collaboration between government officials, industry experts, and other stakeholders are essential for addressing these complex issues, so Mike and Jon offer the inspiration and encouragement you will need to be an Asset Champion in 2026! Connect with Jon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-towers1/ Learn more about Brownstein: https://www.bhfs.com/ Explore Eptura™: https://eptura.com/ Discover free resources and explore past interviews at: https://eptura.com/discover-more/podcasts/asset-champion/ Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepetrusky/  

In this episode, Jacob Robinson and Jonathan Schmalfeld break down the biggest U.S. crypto law and policy developments of the month, from the SEC's moves toward bringing public markets on-chain to major CFTC moves on derivatives, prediction markets, and collateral. The conversation also covers crypto tax proposals, DeFi governance disputes, banking access, privacy, quantum risk, and why regulators increasingly view crypto not as an exception, but as core financial infrastructure.Jonathan Schmalfeld is the Policy Director at The Digital Chamber and the author of the Off the Blockchain+ newsletter, where he analyzes crypto regulation, market structure, and emerging policy trends.Timestamps:➡️ 1:03 — SEC market structure reforms and DTC no-action relief➡️ 7:54 — CFTC allows crypto and tokenized treasuries as collateral➡️ 8:45 — Prediction markets and state gambling laws➡️ 13:23 — Crypto tax proposals: wash sales, staking, and airdrops➡️ 16:03 — Aave, DAO governance, and token vs. equity conflicts➡️ 21:48 — GENIUS Act implementation and stablecoin interest debates➡️ 27:33 — The end of Operation Choke Point 2.0 and legislative fixes➡️ 31:02 — DeFi liquidations, market manipulation, and public debate➡️ 34:20 — Quantum computing risk and Bitcoin's long-term resilience➡️ 38:46 — Michael Selig confirmed as CFTC ChairSponsor: This episode is brought to you by the Decentralization Research Center (DRC), a nonprofit think tank advocating for decentralization in emerging technologies. Learn more at thedrcenter.org.Resources: 

In our last show before the holiday break, we discuss a matter right in the heart of Milwaukee where folks are fighting back against Milwaukee Area Technical College and The White House regarding the termination of four employees, the reason why it happened and why it is based in disinformation. Then, Amanda Merkwae is the Policy Director for The ACLU of Wisconsin and she is our guest to talk about a bill in the Wisconsin assembly that is raising concerns over how to protect The First Amendment on our college campuses. We discuss the history of this bill, claims of government overreach and why its lack of bipartisanship should be concerning for all it may affect. As always, thank you for listening, texting and calling, we couldn't do this without you! Don't forget to download the free Civic Media app and take us wherever you are in the world! Matenaer On Air is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs weekday mornings from 9-11 across the state. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! You can also rate us on your podcast distribution center of choice. It goes a long way! Guest: Amanda Merkwae

In our last show before the holiday break, we discuss a matter right in the heart of Milwaukee where folks are fighting back against Milwaukee Area Technical College and The White House regarding the termination of four employees, the reason why it happened and why it is based in disinformation. Then, Amanda Merkwae is the Policy Director for The ACLU of Wisconsin and she is our guest to talk about a bill in the Wisconsin assembly that is raising concerns over how to protect The First Amendment on our college campuses. We discuss the history of this bill, claims of government overreach and why its lack of bipartisanship should be concerning for all it may affect. As always, thank you for listening, texting and calling, we couldn't do this without you! Don't forget to download the free Civic Media app and take us wherever you are in the world! Matenaer On Air is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs weekday mornings from 9-11 across the state. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! You can also rate us on your podcast distribution center of choice. It goes a long way! Guest: Amanda Merkwae

Guests: Lindsay Knox, Senior VP and Policy Director, McDonald Carano

Guests: Lindsay Knox, Senior VP and Policy Director, McDonald Carano

In this episode, Jonathan Schmalfeld and Jacob Robinson walk through the biggest crypto law and policy developments of the month of November. Jonathan is the Policy Director at The Digital Chamber, where he leads federal and state advocacy on digital asset regulation. Timestamps:➡️ 1:19 — Senate Agriculture Committee releases market structure draft➡️ 3:22 — Why DeFi and AML sections remain blank➡️ 3:52 — Chair Atkins' speech and push for taxonomy➡️ 6:32 — Treasury & IRS guidance on staking ETFs➡️ 10:39 — Uniswap's fee switch vote and winding down➡️ 13:53 — Coinbase reincorporates from Delaware to Texas➡️ 16:19 — MEV exploit trial ends in mistrial➡️ 23:36 — Samurai Wallet sentencing and liability risks➡️ 26:55 — DOJ's Tornado Cash filing and self-custody issues➡️ 30:29 — Digital Chamber launches State Network➡️ 33:37 — OCC guidance allowing banks pay gas fees➡️ 36:50 — What to watch next in GENIUS implementationSponsor: Day One Law, a boutique corporate law firm founded by Nick Pullman. Nick and his team at Day One provide strategic legal counsel to startups, crypto projects, and Web3 innovators. ⁠You can get in contact with them via this link⁠: ⁠⁠https://www.dayonelaw.xyz/#contact

In the latest episode of Public Power Now, Patricia Taylor, Policy Director at APPA, discusses a recently released report by APPA on data centers. Among other things, she explains why APPA prepared the report on serving data centers and discusses some of the challenges utilities may face in serving data center customers.

Ross starts with Drew Cline, President of the Josiah Bartlett Center for Public Policy, discusses their new “Civil Discourse Series” and how more free speech is the answer to partisanship.then, Jon Dipietro, Founder of Liberty Digital, informs listeners about the constantly changing environment for Artificial Intelligence, potential benefits, threats, and the best way to use the toolsJohn Goodnight updates listeners about the potential for peace between Ukraine and Russiaand Ed Tarnowski, Policy Director and host of the State of Choice Podcast with Ed Choice, discusses the state of the education freedom movement, how education freedom policies are more efficient, save taxpayers money, and have better results for the students.

10:05 – 10:22 (17mins) Riki Parikh Policy Director at The Alliance for Secure AI Can discuss The White House Genesis Mission Projectserves as Policy Director at The Alliance for Secure AI, where he leads strategy to build bipartisan support for smart, enforceable safeguards that ensure artificial intelligence is developed and deployed responsibly, transparently, and in the public interest. He brings more than a decade of senior experience at the intersection of public policy, strategic communications, and law—including most recently as Senior Counselor to the Secretary at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, where he advised on national security and emerging technology issues. Previously, he held leadership roles in global public affairs and policy communications at Meta and LinkedIn, shaping corporate engagement with policymakers around the world. He spent six years on Capitol Hill, as counsel to U.S. Senator Michael Bennet and as press secretary to U.S. Senator Mark Warner. Riki earned his J.D. from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, where he also worked with then-Governor John Hickenlooper and Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, and his B.A. from the George Washington University. 10:41 – 10:56 (15mins) Weekly: Drew Thomas Allen @DrewThomasAllenAuthor: For Christ and Country: the Martyrdom of Charlie Kirk Host of ‘The Drew Allen Show’ podcast VP of client development at Publius PR & Editor of the Publius National Post.columnistSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10:05 – 10:22 (17mins) Riki Parikh Policy Director at The Alliance for Secure AI Can discuss The White House Genesis Mission Projectserves as Policy Director at The Alliance for Secure AI, where he leads strategy to build bipartisan support for smart, enforceable safeguards that ensure artificial intelligence is developed and deployed responsibly, transparently, and in the public interest. He brings more than a decade of senior experience at the intersection of public policy, strategic communications, and law—including most recently as Senior Counselor to the Secretary at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, where he advised on national security and emerging technology issues. Previously, he held leadership roles in global public affairs and policy communications at Meta and LinkedIn, shaping corporate engagement with policymakers around the world. He spent six years on Capitol Hill, as counsel to U.S. Senator Michael Bennet and as press secretary to U.S. Senator Mark Warner. Riki earned his J.D. from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, where he also worked with then-Governor John Hickenlooper and Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, and his B.A. from the George Washington University. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unifying a Partisan Nation Around NatureNature is Nonpartisan is a bipartisan, solutions-focused coalition working to unite Americans around shared environmental goals. By fostering cross-party support for conservation and land stewardship, the organization hopes to reframe climate action as a unifying national priority rather than a partisan fight. Establishing Nature as Middle GroundIn recent years, environmental politics in the U.S. have been paralyzed by partisan gridlock, stalling climate progress. Nature is Nonpartisan aims to break this deadlock by reframing environmentalism around common-sense values, such as safety, access to the outdoors, and community well-being. By engaging Americans across the political spectrum, the coalition seeks to depoliticize climate solutions and ground them in conservation principles that resonate more universally: protecting public lands, supporting disaster-affected communities, and ensuring access to clean air and water.This approach gained national attention in early 2025 when founder and CFO Benji Backer, alongside coalition members, briefed White House staff on nonpartisan conservation strategies. A meeting scheduled for fifteen minutes extended well over an hour, ultimately influencing President Trump's unexpected June 2025 signing of the “Make America Beautiful Again” executive order. The order focuses on conserving public lands, safeguarding wildlife, and securing clean drinking water. Backer underscored that wildfires, drought, and ecosystem collapse don't just affect the environment; they threaten billions in outdoor-recreation revenue and undermine the hunting, fishing, and farming traditions valued across political lines.Nature is Nonpartisan's narrative emphasizes that environmental protection is not only about climate, but also the American landscape, economic security, and the natural heritage millions rely on and cherish.Conservation as Climate ActionNature is Nonpartisan's work centers on four key conservation areas: managing forests to reduce wildfire risk, enhancing water quality and improving water infrastructure, enhancing natural disaster resilience, and promoting responsible land stewardship. Together, these priorities offer a practical, bipartisan path to protect ecosystems and communities most vulnerable to climate change.Overall, emphasizing conservation provides a widely palatable, bipartisan entry point into climate action. By restoring ecosystems, sequestering carbon, and protecting biodiversity, these efforts simultaneously strengthen local economies — particularly in rural regions dependent on recreation and natural-resource industries — while building long-term climate resilience. The Tension Beneath the SurfaceDespite its promise, Nature is Nonpartisan's work exists within a fraught political landscape. Environmentalism and conservatism are still often framed as ideologically incompatible, a perception the organization works actively to undo. While the “Make America Beautiful Again” executive order signals progress, critics argue it may be more symbolic than substantive, especially given President Trump's longstanding dismissal of climate science. Some fear the order could serve more as a political performance than a genuine environmental advancement.These tensions point to the broader challenge: decades of conservative skepticism toward climate science have made it difficult to ensure follow-through on policy. Nature is Nonpartisan hopes to continue confronting this distrust by reframing environmental protection around nationally shared values — family, future generations, clean water, clean air, and access to the outdoors — whether one is a Midwestern farmworker or a city resident.The Power of Words and Bipartisan PolicyCommunications Director Amelia Joy emphasizes that language is crucial to keeping these efforts genuinely nonpartisan. Because the word “climate” has become politically charged, Nature is Nonpartisan often avoids leading with it. Instead, Joy notes that many of the organization's core priorities, from wildfire prevention to natural disaster resilience, are climate issues, but by centering them in everyday terms, the coalition can build durable, cross-party support that can outlast any single administration.Policy Director Maya Cohn adds that progress doesn't have to depend on who is in office. She emphasizes that policy advances can happen under any president or Congress if people are willing to work across political lines. For her, bridging divides and having honest conversations, even with those you disagree with, is the only way to create long-lasting environmental solutions.About the GuestsAmelia Joy is the Communications Director at Nature is Nonpartisan and identifies as Conservative. Maya Cohn is the Policy Director at Nature is Nonpartisan and identifies as Progressive.ResourcesAbout — Nature Is NonpartisanEstablishing the President's Make America Beautiful Again Commission – The White HouseMake America Beautiful Again — Nature Is NonpartisanFurther ReadingQ&A: Meet the conservative working to make environmentalism nonpartisanFraming Climate Action as Patriotic and Status Quo-Friendly Increases Liberals' and Conservatives' Belief in Climate ChangeHow this group got Trump to sign a pro-environment executive order - The Washington Post  For a transcript, please visit https://climatebreak.org/unifying-a-partisan-nation-around-nature-with-amelia-joy-and-maya-cohn/

Jackie Kancir, a lifelong patient and policy advocate and current Policy Director for the National Council on Severe Autism, discusses her work to improve health equity and services for individuals with profound autism and intellectual disabilities. Speaking at the American Academy of Developmental Medicine and Dentistry conference, she highlights challenges such as the "cliff" faced when individuals age out of pediatric care, the need for integrated health systems, and her efforts to amend the Autism CARES Act and implement mandatory hospital protocols for safe care. Drawing from personal experience as a mother to a 21-year-old with profound autism and complex medical needs, Jackie emphasizes collaboration among policymakers, clinicians, and advocates, and shares practical insights like addressing diagnostic overshadowing and thinking creatively about meaningful opportunities for people with disabilities.

In this episode of American Potential, host David From talks with Tanner Avery, Policy Director at the Frontier Institute in Montana, about how pro-innovation policies are helping Big Sky Country become a leader in both artificial intelligence and energy development. Avery explains how Montana's new Right to Compute law protects AI and modern computing as forms of free speech—calling them the “modern printing press”—and why that protection is vital for innovation and economic growth. He also dives into Montana's unique opportunity to pair energy abundance with the rise of data centers and AI-driven industries. With low regulation, smart permitting reforms, and a strong culture of freedom, Montana is attracting businesses and tech talent from high-regulation states. Avery and From discuss how AI can augment work, boost labor productivity, and create prosperity without fear or overregulation. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in AI policy, energy innovation, and the future of technology freedom in America.

Several cities and counties are addressing street homelessness with a new approach, which experts say can clear encampments while protecting the health of people who are forced to move.Guests:Josh Barocas, Associate Professor, University of Colorado Anschutz School of MedicineMarc Dones, Policy Director, Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative, University of California San FranciscoRyan Levi, Managing Editor, TradeoffsMatt Mahan, Mayor, City of San JoseJazmine MapesPeter Radu, Neighborhood Services Manager, City of BerkeleyLearn more and read a full transcript on our website.Want more Tradeoffs? Sign up for our free weekly newsletter featuring the latest health policy research and news.Support this type of journalism today, with a gift. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over a third of women could face poverty in retirement due to a growing gender gap in private pensions, according to a report from Scottish Widows, with women's finances being hit by caring responsibilities and career gaps. YouGov carried out the reseach for the Scottish Widows annual Women and Retirement Report, asking 4,000 women from across the UK about their pensions and retirement planning, as well as savings, investments and career breaks. Nuala McGovern talks to Lily Megson-Harvey, the Policy Director of retirement finance company My Pension Expert. A third of all rape trials in Wales and England last year were postponed at least once, often on the day of trial, according to a new report published by the charity Rape Crisis England and Wales. Ten years ago in 2015 the figure was one in 10. Their report, Living in Limbo, finds rape and sexual abuse survivors are being retraumatised by the criminal justice system. Nuala is joined by Maxime Rowson, the charity's Head of Policy and Public Affairs. Back in 1995 a call went out looking for women to take part in a landmark scientific study exploring the links between what we eat and our health. Thirty-five thousand middle-aged women signed up to be part of the UK Women's Cohort Study. It went on to look at the impact our diet can have on our risk of developing cancer and other chronic diseases, as well as other areas of women's health from our bones to the menopause. Professor Janet Cade from the University of Leeds joins Nuala to discuss what it was like launching the study 30 years ago and some of its key takeaways for women. Families are calling for a change in the law after they say their babies' dead bodies were kept inappropriately at a funeral director's home. The case highlights a lack of regulation in funeral services in England and Wales. Nuala speaks to Zoe Ward, one of the parents affected, who recently met with Victims Minister Alex Davies Jones to call for new laws, and to Zoe's MP, Mark Sewards. Harriet Lane's new novel, Other People's Fun, explores modern life and the lies we tell others – and ourselves – on social media. It follows an unlikely and uneasy friendship between the unnoticed Ruth and the Instagrammable Sookie. Harriet joins Nuala in the studio to discuss why female friendships and ‘everyday horror' has always intrigued her. Presented by: Nuala McGovern Produced by: Sarah Jane Griffiths

Join us live now on #texasvaluesreport with special guest Texas Land Commissioner Dr. ⁨@dawnbuckingham7843⁩ & guest host Jonathan Covey, Policy Director for Texas Values as they discuss Charlie Kirk's legacy, The Alamo, re-election, and the directive for GLO field personnel to survey Texas land for cartel tunnels. Texas Land Commissioner Dr. Dawn Buckingham made an announcement Monday directing GLO field personnel to survey Texas land for cartel tunnels. Press release: https://www.glo.texas.gov/about-glo/press-releases/commissioner-buckingham-directs-glo-survey-state-land-cartel-tunnels Follow Dawn Buckingham on X https://x.com/DrBuckinghamTX Follow Texas General Land Office on X https://x.com/TXGLO Graduate to an Advanced level of citizenship with Texas Values University https://texasvaluesuniversity.com/ Help us build our channel so we can maintain a culture of Faith, Family, & Freedom in Texas by interacting with us; like, comment, share, subscribe! For more about Texas Values see: Txvalues.org To support our work, go to donate.txvalues.org/GivetoTexasValues

For two decades, James Leuschen served in influential senior staff positions in the U.S. House of Representatives, culminating as Policy Director to Democratic Majority Leader Steny Hoyer. An expert in economic policy impacting American families, he significantly contributed to the Affordable Care Act's passage and expansion, and advocated for the Child Tax Credit. Beyond national work, James collaborated with Congressman Brad Ashford to secure funding for a new VA medical facility in Omaha, Nebraska, now serving tens of thousands of veterans. His career demonstrates a deep understanding of both national policy and local community needsLearn More About James

Part II of our crossover episode with The Bang-Bang Podcast! Van and Lyle are joined by Sam Ratner, Policy Director at Win Without War, and Andy Facini, Communications Director at the Council on Strategic Risks, to discuss WarGames, John Badham's Cold-War techno-thriller that accidentally foresaw the age of algorithmic warfare. What begins as a teenage prank—Matthew Broderick's David Lightman breaking into what he thinks is a computer game—quickly becomes a meditation on automation, deterrence, and human judgment in systems built to annihilate. Together, the group unpacks how WarGames' “WOPR” supercomputer prefigures today's AI decision-making, where machines learn to “take men out of the loop.” They trace how the film's closing revelation (“The only winning move is not to play”) echoes across four decades of nuclear strategy and modern debates over escalation, autonomy, and control. The conversation ranges from NORAD and machine learning to the moral limits of deterrence, the psychology of Cold-War adolescence, and the comic absurdity of believing one can win an unwinnable game. Like Dr. Strangelove before it, WarGames shows us a military machine that runs on fear, faith, and code, and a civilization learning to live with its own programmed self-destruction.Subscribe to the Un-Diplomatic Newsletter: https://www.un-diplomatic.comSubscribe to The Bang-Bang Podcast: https://www.bangbangpod.com/Further ReadingSam's professional pageAndy's professional page“Strategy & Conscience (The Book Review We Need),” by VanTelehack, a retro internet simulator recommended by AndyThe Imagineers of War: The Untold Story of DARPA, by Sharon WeinbergerThe Closed World: Computers and the Politics of Discourse in Cold War America, by Paul N. EdwardsThe Doomsday Machine: Confessions of a Nuclear War Planner, by Daniel Ellsberg

Free crossover episode with The Bang-Bang Podcast! Van and Lyle are joined by Sam Ratner, Policy Director at Win Without War, and Andy Facini, Communications Director at the Council on Strategic Risks, to discuss WarGames, John Badham's Cold-War techno-thriller that accidentally foresaw the age of algorithmic warfare.What begins as a teenage prank—Matthew Broderick's David Lightman breaking into what he thinks is a computer game—quickly becomes a meditation on automation, deterrence, and human judgment in systems built to annihilate. Together, the group unpacks how WarGames' “WOPR” supercomputer prefigures today's AI decision-making, where machines learn to “take men out of the loop.” They trace how the film's closing revelation (“The only winning move is not to play”) echoes across four decades of nuclear strategy and modern debates over escalation, autonomy, and control.The conversation ranges from NORAD and machine learning to the moral limits of deterrence, the psychology of Cold-War adolescence, and the comic absurdity of believing one can win an unwinnable game. Like Dr. Strangelove before it, WarGames shows us a military machine that runs on fear, faith, and code, and a civilization learning to live with its own programmed self-destruction.Subscribe to the Un-Diplomatic Newsletter: https://www.un-diplomatic.comSubscribe to The Bang-Bang Podcast: https://www.bangbangpod.com/Further ReadingSam's professional pageAndy's professional page“Strategy & Conscience (The Book Review We Need),” by VanTelehack, a retro internet simulator recommended by AndyThe Imagineers of War: The Untold Story of DARPA, by Sharon WeinbergerThe Closed World: Computers and the Politics of Discourse in Cold War America, by Paul N. EdwardsThe Doomsday Machine: Confessions of a Nuclear War Planner, by Daniel Ellsberg

Join host Ellina Yin  and Guest David Ginsborg, as we unpack the upcoming Special Election for Santa Clara County Assessor on November 4. This episode breaks down who's running, what each candidate stands for, and why this often-overlooked office plays a critical role in how property taxes fund our schools, cities, and public services. We'll also address circulating misinformation, clarify what's fact versus fiction, and help you make sense of what's truly at stake in this election. You can check out the full episode on the County Assessor here: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/onlyinscc/episodes/Episode-13-County-Assessors-Office-with-David-Ginsborg-e39jgmv/a-ac7ata8 Early Voting at the Registrar of Voters Office​​​​​: 1555 Berger Drive, Building 2, San Jose, CA 95112Dates & HoursMonday - Friday, October 6, 2025 – November 3, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.​Saturday​ and Sunday, October 25, 2025 – October 26, 2025, November 1, 2025 – November 2, 2025, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.​Election Day, November 4, 2025, 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.Guest Bio: In 2021, David K. Ginsborg retired from nearly 30 years in government service which included serving as one of the youngest Chiefs of Staff for then Congressman Bob Filner; Policy Director for Supervisor Ron Gonzales; and most recently for nearly 25 years for Assessor Larry Stone as his Deputy Assessor. Previously he also worked in commercial real estate in southern California.⁠⁠Only in San José⁠⁠/Only in Santa Clara County is a civic education podcast series dedicated to demystifying and democratizing the process of local government and civic participation in the City of San José.⁠About Us⁠ ⁠| ⁠Join Patreon ⁠| ⁠One Time Donation⁠ | ⁠Volunteer⁠Music: Spunker by Blue Dot Sessions (https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/271482) Creative Commons License Attribution - Noncommercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0)*Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976: Allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Resources:Santa Clara County Voter Information: https://vote.santaclaracounty.gov/elections/november-4-2025-statewide-special-election Candidate: Bryan Do https://www.bryando.org/ Candidate: Neysa Fligor https://www.voteneysaforassessor.com/ Candidate: Rishi Kumar https://rishikumar.com/ Candidate: Yan Zhao https://www.yan4assessor.com/ Partial/Reduce Property Tax Exemptions for qualified Seniors: https://www.realtor.com/advice/finance/states-that-exempt-seniors-from-property-taxes/ County Assessor Office: https://www.sccassessor.org/ Annual Assessor Reports: https://www.sccassessor.org/forms-and-publications/annual-report

COS President Mark Meckler sits down with Dr. Thomas Lindsay, a Policy Director at the powerhouse Texas Public Policy Foundation and long-time supporter of Convention of States. An engaging luminary and passionate advocate for liberty, Lindsay and TPPF were influential in pushing the Texas legislature to join the COS movement. https://conventionofstates.com/askmark

In this episode of the Produce Moms Podcast, host Lori Taylor welcomes Alex Canepa, the Policy Director at Fair Food Network. They discuss the importance of nutrition incentives like Double Up Food Bucks, which help low-income families access fresh fruits and vegetables while supporting local farmers.

What does it mean to honor the voice inside you that says “Not today”—even when your skills say yes? In this conversation, Brett Mayer, lifelong educator, athlete, and Policy Director at the American Canoe Association, joins Anna to explore how discomfort shows up on the river, in public speaking, and in stewardship. Together, they unpack identity, ego, and the courage to choose connection over conquest. ✨ What You'll Learn in This Episode

Dr. Huntley sits down with Annee Morris Reed, Policy Director at the Funders Forum on Accountable Health and lecturer at George Washington University's Milken Institute School of Public Health. The conversation explores Anne's inspiring career spanning senior policy roles within the federal government, her dedication to community-driven, multi-sector partnerships, and the impact of landmark legislation like the 2025 Budget Reconciliation Bill (the “one big beautiful bill”). Together, Dr. Huntley and Anne unpack the vital differences between public health and healthcare, highlight actionable strategies for advocacy, and empower listeners to create positive change in their communities. Even in challenging political climates.   Resources

In this episode of American Potential, host David From is joined by Jeremiah Mosteller, Policy Director at Americans for Prosperity, to examine how the Department of Justice spends its massive $67 billion budget. From maintaining dozens of little-used SWAT teams across obscure federal agencies to handing out 11,000 grants worth nearly $5 billion a year—many with little accountability—Jeremiah explains how DOJ has grown far beyond its original mission of enforcing federal law. He also reveals how overlapping programs and unclear reporting allow waste and duplication to thrive. The conversation then shifts to one of DOJ's most controversial practices: civil asset forfeiture. Jeremiah outlines how this process allows the government to seize cash, cars, and property from people never even charged with a crime, fueling a slush fund that DOJ frequently raids for discretionary spending. By redirecting this money back to taxpayers and consolidating duplicative programs, Jeremiah and David show how reforms could cut billions without harming public safety. This milestone episode celebrates their Big Ideas for Smaller Government series officially identifying more than $2 trillion in potential federal savings.

In this Big Ideas for Smaller Government episode of American Potential, host David From is joined by Jeremiah Mosteller, Policy Director at Americans for Prosperity, to expose the wasteful spending and inefficiencies at the General Services Administration (GSA)—the federal agency responsible for managing office buildings, procurement, and travel across the U.S. government. They revisit the infamous $800,000 Las Vegas conference scandal, complete with a $30,000 pool party and a 2,400 sq. ft. hotel suite—paid for by taxpayers. They also uncover the GSA's multi-billion-dollar mismanagement of a long-delayed Department of Homeland Security headquarters and reveal that the federal government is using just 25% of the office space it occupies. David and Jeremiah lay out a plan to save $1.88 billion over the next decade by selling underused federal buildings—many of which are sitting empty—and call on Congress to step up and demand accountability. This episode is a revealing look at how cutting GSA waste is one more step toward saving taxpayers trillions.

In this episode of American Potential, host David From welcomes back Jeremiah Mosteller, Policy Director at Americans for Prosperity, for another installment in the “Big Ideas for Smaller Government” series—this time targeting the Internal Revenue Service. Jeremiah breaks down how outdated pandemic-era tax subsidies—expanded under the American Rescue Plan—are still being paid out today, even to higher-income individuals who don't need them. Reverting to the original subsidy rules for the Obamacare marketplace could save taxpayers a staggering $383 billion. The episode also exposes shocking mismanagement inside the IRS, including nearly 3,000 IRS employees who owe back taxes and over $4.7 trillion in untraceable federal spending due to failed accounting practices. Jeremiah explains how simple reforms like the LEDGER Act could bring long-overdue transparency to the Treasury and restore public trust. This is a can't-miss conversation about fiscal responsibility, common sense reforms, and how everyday Americans can play a role in cutting $2 trillion in wasteful government spending.

Fun Half link: https://youtube.com/live/DoFQZw-geTc It's Thursday which means it is an Emmajority Report Day. We start the show with the Senate Rescissions bill that passed in the wee hours last night. PBS, NPR and USAID are now defunded. We are joined by Policy Director of Defending Rights & Dissent, Chip Gibbons, to discuss Trump's war on free speech, specifically around Palestinian activism. Then we are joined by Ren Brabenec to talk about his piece in the Tennessee Lookout that covers Elon Musk's unpermitted Ai data center that is causing massive environmental damage in Memphis. In the fun half we are joined by Brandon Sutton and Matt Binder as we continue the coverage of the Epstein caused MAGA / Trump fissure. Charlie Kirk's gaslight's his fans and they are furious. We close out by enjoying Ben Shapiro's review of Superman. It's as bad as you imagine it to be. All that and more plus phone calls.   Follow us on TikTok here!: https://www.tiktok.com/@majorityreportfm Check us out on Twitch here!: https://www.twitch.tv/themajorityreport Find our Rumble stream here!: https://rumble.com/user/majorityreport Check out our alt YouTube channel here!: https://www.youtube.com/majorityreportlive Gift a Majority Report subscription here: https://fans.fm/majority/gift Subscribe to the ESVN YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/esvnshow Subscribe to the AMQuickie newsletter here: https://am-quickie.ghost.io/ Join the Majority Report Discord! https://majoritydiscord.com/ Get all your MR merch at our store: https://shop.majorityreportradio.com/ Get the free Majority Report App!: https://majority.fm/app Go to https://JustCoffee.coop and use coupon code majority to get 10% off your purchase Check out today's sponsors EXPRESS VPN: Get an extra 4 months free. Expressvpn.com/Majority NAKED WINES: Head to NakedWines.com/MAJORITY, click ‘Enter Voucher' and put in my code MAJORITY for both the code AND password for 6 bottles of wine for JUST $39.99 with shipping included SUNSET LAKE: Head on over to SunsetlakeCBD.com and use code NewSticks to treat your aches and pains to some much-deserved relief. This sale ends July 20th at midnight Follow the Majority Report crew on Twitter: @SamSeder @EmmaVigeland @MattLech Check out Matt's show, Left Reckoning, on YouTube, and subscribe on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/leftreckoning Check out Matt Binder's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/mattbinder Subscribe to Brandon's show The Discourse on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/ExpandTheDiscourse Check out Ava Raiza's music here! https://avaraiza.bandcamp.com/ The Majority Report with Sam Seder – https://majorityreportradio.com/

In the next installment of the Big Ideas for Smaller Government series, host David From welcomes back Jeremiah Mosteller, Policy Director at Americans for Prosperity, to take a hard look at spending within the Department of Veterans Affairs—and what reforms are needed to better serve those who served us. Mosteller breaks down how the VA's budget has quadrupled since 2004 even though the veteran population has declined by 30%. From bloated staffing levels to $4 million contracts for services that now cost just $5,000, this episode exposes how wasteful spending is draining resources from veterans and taxpayers alike. The conversation also focuses on one reform with huge potential impact: site-neutral payments. Right now, hospitals owned by large systems can charge the federal government far more than local, independent clinics for providing the exact same services to veterans. This creates perverse incentives, drives up costs, and limits care options. Adopting site-neutral payments would save taxpayers an estimated $14 billion—and give veterans more access to timely, local care. Mosteller also exposes how top VA officials actively discourage use of the Community Care Program, forcing veterans to wait months or drive hours for treatment—while simultaneously helping process healthcare claims for unauthorized migrants. This episode makes one thing clear: reforming the VA isn't about spending less on veterans—it's about spending smarter so veterans get the care they've earned.