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Welcome to Indulgence Gospel After Dark!We are Corinne Fay and Virginia Sole-Smith. These episodes are usually just for our Extra Butter membership tier — but today we're releasing this one to the whole list. So enjoy! (And if you love it, go paid so you don't miss the next one!) Episode 212 TranscriptCorinneToday is a family meeting episode. We're catching up on summer breaks, back to school, and a whole bunch of diet culture news stories that we've been wanting to discuss with you all.VirginiaWe're also remembering how to make a podcast, because we haven't recorded together in like six weeks. And it didn't start off great. But I think we're ready to go now.CorinneSomeone definitely said, “What day is it?”VirginiaIt's hard coming out of summer mode. I don't know if you feel that because you don't have kids, during back to school, but it is a culture shift.CorinneI don't think I feel the back to school thing as much, but I'm still in Maine, and it's actively fall. It's actively getting cold, and I'm just like, what is happening? I feel this pressure to do something, but I'm not sure what? Hibernate?Virginia“Should I buy a notebook? Should I be wearing fleece? I could go either way.” I don't know. It's weird. It is the start of fall. So we are moving into fall mindset. But like, don't rush me, you know? The dahlias bloom till first frost. That's my summer.CorinneSummer is so brief.VirginiaI'm having a lot of clothing feelings right now. I am not in a good place getting dressed, and it is for sure weather related, shoulder season-related. I'm in my annual conundrum of when do the Birkenstocks go away? When must our toes be covered for polite society? Am I showing arms? I just I don't even know how to get dressed. I hate all my clothes. Everything's terrible.CorinneI think this is part of what I'm feeling. I don't have enough warm clothes and I also don't want to buy another pair of sweatpants.VirginiaAnd you're traveling. So you're like, “I have warm clothes at home.” Didn't bring them because you didn't understand, even though you grew up in Maine and should remember that fall starts quite early there.CorinneI need to get it tattooed on my body. Bring a sweater, bring sweatpants.VirginiaWell, to be fair for this Maine trip, you were really focused on your sister's wedding. You had your nephew. You've had a lot going on.CorinneI was very focused on August, and really not thinking about September.VirginiaWill we even exist after? I mean, that's how it always is when you're gearing up for a big event, the post-event doesn't exist.And I don't know if you do the thing where you're like, well, I can deal with that after the big event. And then suddenly it's after the big event. You're like, well, now there's 47 things I need to deal with.CorinneI absolutely do that. Now I'm like, wait. How and when do I get back to New Mexico? Am I going back to New Mexico ever? In which case maybe I do need to buy sweatpants?VirginiaIt's so hard. Even without a wedding —I feel like all summer, because I have pretty skeleton childcare and I'm wanting to take time off, and it's a privilege that our job allows some flexibility like that, so when I get requests to, like, do a podcast, do a special thing. I'm like, “Talk to me in September. I can't do it this summer. Summer mode Virginia can't do anything extra!” And now I've just spent the week saying no to lots of things, because September me can't do it either. That was folly. I should have just said no the first time!That's one of those life lessons I'm always relearning that's really funny. If it's not an instant yes, it's a no. And I so often fall into the trap of it's not an instant yes, so let me kick that can down the curb a little bit, and then then I feel ruder because they come back and I'm like, no, I'm sorry. Actually, we were never going to do that.CorinneAs someone who's been on the other side of that where, like, I'll reach out to someone for the Style Questionnaire, and they'll be like, “Oh, can you ask me in two months?” And then when I reach out in two months, and they're like, “No.”VirginiaTotally. I'm on the other side of it all the time when we're booking podcast guests. So I'm completely aware of how shitty it feels. So I have a resolution. Summer Virginia just has to say no to things and not push it to Fall Virginia. Everyone hold me accountable next summer, because I'm so sorry to everybody I've said no to this week, but September is a real intense parenting month. There are just a lot of moving parts.I get 62 emails a day from the school. The middle school just announced back to school night will be tomorrow. They told us yesterday! One cool thing is, my older kid is in seventh grade now, so I no longer have to scramble for babysitters, which is a real achievement unlocked. Although she's going to realize at some point that she should increase her rates with me.CorinneOh, you pay her!VirginiaFor stuff where I'm going to be out of the house and need her to put her sister to bed. It's one thing, if I'm like, “I'm going to the store, you guys don't want to come.” Fine. You can doodle around at home. And it's not even really babysitting. She's going to ignore her the whole time. But I'm going to be out from 6 to 8pm tomorrow night. I need her to actually make sure her younger sibling gets in pajamas and brushes teeth and, moves towards bed. I'm not expecting them to be in bed when I get home, but I would like them to not be nowhere close.CorinneThat's really sweet.VirginiaPlus we have some big stuff in the works for both Burnt Toast and Big Undies, which we cannot discuss just yet. Yes, I am actively teasing it for you all.CorinneYou're going to bring that up now?! I feel like we should mention it at the end.VirginiaI think we can mention it whenever we feel like? I think they're probably like, “Why are they both doing reader surveys? What's going on?” And we can't say yet, but there's something going on, and it's also requiring a lot of our time and attention.CorinneWe're really busy. But I think it's going to be really good, and everyone's going to love it.VirginiaIn the meantime, though: What are we wearing? Real talk, what are we wearing to get through this weird it's not summer, it's not fall, it's some hybrid state. Are you still wearing open toed shoes? Sandals?CorinneNo, I'm not.VirginiaOkay. Should I stop, too?CorinneI mean, I'm only not because I'm cold. It depends on if you're cold. I also think now is kind of the perfect time for socks with sandals.VirginiaMost of my sandals are something between my toes style. CorinneOh, I was thinking, like, socks with Birkenstocks.VirginiaAh! I do have some of the two strap Birkenstocks, and I don't tend to wear them a lot in summer. Maybe I should experiment!CorinneI feel like, when you wear socks with the two strap Birkenstocks, they become really cozy.VirginiaI don't wear them a lot in summer because I don't have particularly wide feet, and they're a little wide on me. But the sock would solve for that! And they would be cozy… all right, I'm going to experiment with this, as part of my shoulder season style.CorinneI'm still figuring out my fall must haves, which is one of my favorite topics. Although I will say I feel like this year I've seen a lot of people posting like, “I don't want to hear about back to school, or I don't want to hear about fall fashion.”VirginiaI have terrible news for people about this podcast. CorinneI feel it's very light hearted. It could be literally anything like, who cares? We are entering fall, so…VirginiaTime is passing.CorinneI am getting cold. I do want to put on socks with my sandals and sweatshirts.VirginiaTrigger warning for anyone who is not available for a fall fashion conversation.CorinneMaybe by the time this comes out, people will be ready.I know this is like florals for spring, but I'm feeling for fall… brown pants.VirginiaWait, what? You're blowing my mind? You've been feeling brown for a little while. CorinneBrown has been ramping up. I'm wearing brown pants right now.VirginiaIs it one of your colors, as a true spring?CorinneWell, I do think there are definitely some camels. And I think brown is preferable to black. So I'm thinking brown pants instead of black pants.VirginiaOh, I don't even know what I'm thinking about pants. I'm thinking frustration with pants. I have my one pair of jeans that I reliably wear. I think I need to order another pair in case they stop making them. I'm at a scarcity mindset point with those Gap jeans. I mean, they aren't going to stop making them. They've had them for years, but I just feel like I need an insurance policy.CorinneDo you fit other Gap pants, or just the jeans?VirginiaI only buy that one pair of jeans. I mean, I generally try not to shop at the Gap because they do not have a plus size section.CorinneBut they do have some really cute stuff.VirginiaIt's gross though! Make it bigger.CorinneIf it fits you, maybe you should buy it.VirginiaCorinne is like, “Or counterpoint, don't take a stand.”CorinneI'm always sending links to my straight-size sister for stuff at the Gap that I think she should buy.VirginiaThey do have some really cute stuff, but it infuriates me that Old Navy can make plus sizes, and Gap cannot, and Banana Republic really cannot. It's just like, hello, class system, capitalism. It's so revolting.CorinneOh, my God. Do you know what else I'm feeling outraged about? I went thrift shopping here a couple weeks ago, and I found some vintage Land's End that was in sizes that they don't make anymore.VirginiaWow, that's rude.CorinneIt was a 4X! So they used to be way more 26/28 or 28/30. So they also, at some point, kind of cut back.VirginiaThey do, at least legitimately have a section called plus size, though.CorinneThey do, but it clearly used to be bigger.VirginiaNo, no, no. I'm not saying it's great. I am wearing my favorite joggers a lot, because I think I'm really resisting the shift back to hard pants.CorinneHow do you feel about trousers, like a pleated trouser kind of pant?VirginiaIs that comfortable for working from home? A pleated trouser?CorinneWell, I feel like they're comfortable because they're kind of baggy but narrower at the bottom, you know?VirginiaI do love a tapered ankle. I also unpaused my Nuuly. And I did get a blue corduroy pair of pants from them that it hasn't been quite cold enough to wear because shoulder seasons. Corduroy, to me is like a real like we are fully in cold weather fabric. And when it's 50 in the morning, but 75 by lunchtime, am I going to be hot in corduroys? I guess I should just start wearing them and see.CorinneAre they jeans style? VirginiaThey're slightly cropped so that's another reason to wear them now, while I can still have bare ankles. They're slightly cropped and slightly flared, and they're like a royal blue corduroy.They're Pilcro, which is an Anthropologie brand and I know we feel gross about Anthropologie. But when it comes to pants, I think Corinne is saying we can't have moral stances because pants are so hard to find. Other things, yes.CorinneIt's just hard.VirginiaI'm not excited about clothes right now. I want to feel more excited. Maybe I need to think about what my fall must haves are. Maybe I need to make a pin board or something.CorinneI think that's a good idea. Is there anything you're feeling excited about? I remember the last episode you were talking about those Imbodhi pants.VirginiaOh yeah. They've really become lounge around the house pants, and they're great, but they're very thin. Imbodhi feels like a brand you could not wear once it gets cold.Although, the jumpsuit I have from them in periwinkle—which does feel like a very summery color to me—I also got black. And over the summer it felt a little too black jumpsuit. It felt like too formal or something. But I've been enjoying it as a transition piece. I am still wearing it with sandals. I think it would look cute with maybe my Veja sneakers, though, and then layering over my denim shirt from Universal Standard, like open over it.I'm glad we're talking about this, because that's what I'm going to wear to back to school night tomorrow night, which is a high pressure dressing occasion.CorinneI can see that.VirginiaYou don't want to look like you tried too hard, but you also don't want to look like you came in pajamas. Lots of yoga moms, a lot of pressure. Okay, I'm going to wear that black jumpsuit. I'm glad we talked about that. That's been a good transition piece.CorinneYeah, okay, well, speaking of transitions, I want to ask you about something else. Are you familiar with the Bechdel Test?VirginiaYes.CorinneDon't you think we should have a Bechdel test for anti-fatness? And/or diets? Like, does this piece of culture have a fat character who's not the bad guy, or on a weight loss journey, or being bullied for their size?VirginiaOohhh… OK, so what would our terms be? They can't be the fat villain.CorinneWell, I feel like there's one list for anti fatness, and one would be a piece of culture or whatever that doesn't discuss dieting or weight loss. And I don't know if it should all be one under one Bechdel test umbrella, or if it should be two different tests.VirginiaI feel like it's related. Wait, I need to look up the actual Bechdel Test criteria.CorinneIt's like, does the movie have two female characters talking about something other than a man.VirginiaThe work must feature at least two women.They must talk to each other. And their conversation must be about something other than a man.I was just watching Your Friends and Neighbors, that new John Hamm show about super rich people stealing from each other, and it's very entertaining, but it fails the Bechdel test so dramatically. It's got Amanda Peet in it! She's so smart and funny, and all she does is talk about her ex husband and how much she loves him. And I'm just like, fail, fail, fail. Anyway, okay, I love this idea.CorinneSo it's like, does it have a fat character?VirginiaWait, I think it should have more than one fat character.CorinneThat bar is too high. I feel like we have to be able to name something that passes the test. And what are we calling the test? The Burnt Toast Test?VirginiaWe can workshop names in the comments.CorinneWe need a famous fat person to name it after, maybe.VirginiaWell, I guess Allison Bechdel named it after herself. So it could be the Fay test, because you did this. The Corinne Fay test.CorinneOh, God.So it has to have one fat character, they have to talk about something other than weight loss, and they can't be the villain.VirginiaI would like them not to be the sidekick, too. I think it's a central fat character.CorinneCan we name anything that passes?VirginiaShrill by Lindy West. And Too Much. Well, Lena Dunham doesn't totally pass the Bechdel Test, but she passes the fat test.CorinneSee, it gets very complicated. This is intersectionality!VirginiaWe strive for an intersectional world where the shows pass all the tests. This is such an interesting topic. I love this.CorinneI was also thinking about it because on my drive out, I read two of these Vera Stanhope mysteries. Have you read any of these?VirginiaI have not.CorinneThe main detective woman is fat, and I feel like it' mostly fine. Like, 90% of the time they're just talking about her, she's fat, and she's sloppy. She's a sloppy fat person. And then, like, occasionally, there'll be like, a sentence or two where I'm like, Ooh, I didn't like that.VirginiaIt's so deflating when you have something that's seeming good, and then it takes a turn on you real fast.CorinneSo would that pass the the fat Bechdel Test? Or whatever? Probably would.VirginiaBecause it's as good as we can get.CorinneShe's the main character and not talking about dieting, really.VirginiaYeah, wait, so where does it fall apart for you?CorinneI should have brought an example, but I feel like occasionally there will be narration about her, and it's suddenly like, “her body was disgusting,” you know? VirginiaOh God! I was thinking she maybe lumbered, or she sat heavily, or something. And you're like—CorinneYes. She sat heavily, that kind of thing. And I'm like, okay, sure.But occasionally there's just a twinge where I'm like, oh, you do kind of hate fat people.VirginiaI would then like that author to read Laura Lippman's work. Because Laura Lippman—regular Burnt Toasty! Hi, Laura!—has been doing such good work as a thin author to really work on her fat representation. And I just read Murder Takes a Vacation, which is one of Laura's most recent novels, and it's such a good read. Her protagonist, Mrs. Blossom, I believe was previously a side character in other novels who now has her own book. And the way she writes about body stuff in there is like… Laura's been doing the work. She's been really doing the work. It for sure, passes the Fay Fat Test.CorinneThat's awesome.VirginiaSo everyone check that out. And I would like Ann Cleeves to be reading Laura Lippman.Should we talk about airplanes? Are you in a safe space to talk about airplane feelings?CorinneSure. Yes.VirginiaCorinne was just quoted in The Washington Post, which is very exciting, alongside Tigress Osborne, friend of the show, Executive Director of NAAFA, about how Southwest Airlines is changing their passenger of size policy. Do you want to brief us on what's happening there?CorinneSo Southwest has had a policy in which a “customer of size,” meaning a person who doesn't fit between two plane arm rests, can book two seats and be refunded for the second seat. Or you could show up at the airport day of, and ask for two seats. And not have to pay up front and then be refunded.And in the past couple of months, this policy has somehow gotten really wobbly. I've heard all these anecdotal stories about people showing up at the airport and having Southwest tell them, “You're not going to be able to do this anymore.” Like, don't expect to show up and be able to book a second seat. You need to do it in advance. Blah, blah, blah.Now Southwest has come out and said they're changing the policy. They're also implementing assigned seating, which they didn't used to have. So going forward, you are going to have to book two seats in advance, and you will only be refunded if there are empty seats on the plane. Which, when are there ever empty seats?VirginiaThere are never empty seats on the plane? Never happens.I don't understand, because you needed two seats before, you still need two seats. So why does it matter whether there's an empty seat or not? My brain breaks trying to follow the logic.CorinneI think the logic says like they could have sold the second seat to someone else.VirginiaBut then they're not selling seats that work for people who are paying money to be there. Like, they're taking your money, but if you can't fit on the plane, then they just took your money. It's so shady,CorinneAnd people who don't need a whole seat don't pay less.VirginiaOver the age of two, your children do not get discounts for the fact that, they are using a third of a seat. You pay the same price for a child. CorinneYep. It's really sad, and it's making life harder and sadder for a lot of people.VirginiaI'm curious if another airline will step up on this. I think NAAFA has been doing a good job of making noise about this. I think people are putting pressure on them. It will be interesting if someone else realizes this is like a marketing opportunity.CorinneI think, they absolutely will not.VirginiaWell, I'm not naive enough to think someone would do it just because it's the right thing to do. But I'm hoping maybe one of Southwest's direct competitors would realize it's an opportunity.CorinneBut I think that Southwest previously was the that airline. I think they were using that to their advantage, and now I think they've just been like, “It's not worth it.” I think Alaska has the same policy where you can book two seats, and then if there is an empty seat, they'll refund it.VirginiaWell that's great because Alaska flies so many places, people need to go.CorinneWell, if you're in the if you're in the part of the country where I live, they do! But.VirginiaOh! That's good to know.CorinneI think they're more on a competition level with Southwest versus like United or something, right? I don't think United or Delta even has a customer of size policy.VirginiaThey've never cared.CorinneThere's no way to even book a second ticket for yourself, even if you want to just straight up pay for it.VirginiaIt leaves you the option of figuring out if you can afford business class to have a bigger seat. And that makes flying so much more expensive.CorinneRight? And it's also just like, does business class fit everyone? Probably not.VirginiaWell, we're mad about that, but I did, like seeing you in the Washington Post article saying smart things. So thank you. Thanks your advocacy.Let's see what else has been going on… The Guardian had this interesting piece, which I'm quoted in a little bit, by Andrea Javor. She's articulating something I've seen a few people starting to talk about, which is the experience of being on Ozempic and not losing weight from it.And I think this is an interesting kind of under the radar piece of the whole GLP1s discourse. Some folks are non-responders, whether because they stay on a lower dose by choice, and it improves their numbers, but they don't really lose weight, or some folks just don't really lose weight on it. Her piece really articulates her feelings of shame and failure that this thing that's supposed to be a silver bullet didn't work for her.CorinneWhen I started reading the piece, I was extremely confused, because the the author has diabetes, but type one diabetes, and these drugs don't help with type one diabetes. She eventually goes on it, just for weight loss. So what it didn't work for was weight loss, And I think it actually may have ended up helping with her, like A1C, and stuff. I agree that it does a good job of looking at the feelings that come along with that. And I do think, this does happen, and it's not being talked about as as much as it's happening probably.VirginiaIt feels important to highlight it in this moment where we have Serena Williams talking, about her husband's telehealth company and promoting her use of GLP1s. And we had a great chat on Substack chat about the whole Serena Williams of it all. So I won't rehash that whole discourse here. I also think that's a conversation where I want to hear from Black women. Chrissy King wrote an incredible piece. I also really appreciated the conversation that Sam Sanders, Zach Stafford and Saeed Jones had on Vibe Check about it. So, I don't need to get into Serena's personal choices. But it does mean, we have another huge, very admired celebrity pushing into the conversation again to say, “This is this magic trick. This is the thing I was always looking for. It finally worked for me” And we are all vulnerable to that messaging. So it's important to read stories like this one and understand oh, it really doesn't actually work for everybody. Setting aside whether we think people should be pursuing weight loss, this isn't necessarily going to be guaranteed, amazing results. CorinneAnother interesting article that I thought maybe would want to mention is the the one in The Cut about ARFID.VirginiaThis was a great cover story in New York Magazine. The headline is The Monster at the Dinner Table, and it's basically just encapsulating that ARFID has really been on the rise in recent years, and I think a lot of that is just because now we know what it is and we can diagnose it.But it did include a pretty interesting discussion of what causes kids to lose the instinct to eat, what things get in the way of it. Like, it can be trauma, it can be a feature of autism. It can be a choking experience, all sorts of different things.CorinneARFID is one of those conditions that I feel like I barely knew about before TikTok, and then I've just seen so much stuff about it on Tiktok.VirginiaIt only became a diagnosis in 2013, so it's very, very new. My kiddo would have been diagnosed with it, if it was more fully in the vernacular at that point, but it wasn't. So we were just told it was a “pediatric feeding disorder” type of thing. But it was very vague.I think it's great it's getting more attention. Both for kids and adults. It can be such a source of anxiety and shame for parents. It is so much work. It is very difficult, and it's harder than it should be because of diet culture, because of all the pressure put on parents to feed our kids certain ways. The backlash against ultraprocessed foods is really not helping anyone navigate ARFID. I can't underscore that enough, really not helping. No one needs to feel shame about your kid living on chicken nuggets or frozen burritos or whatever it is.CorinneThe amount of stigma against people who eat certain ways is nuts.VirginiaIt's nuts and it's sad.CorinneYeah it's socially isolating.VirginiaIt is harder to share, right? It's very socially isolating, and it's sad for the people around them. Anytime you're navigating eating together with someone with food restrictions, it does create barriers and extra work and more you have to navigate.But if we didn't have that layer of stigma over it, where it's like, it's probably the mom's fault, if only they like more whole foods at home, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. Like, if we didn't have all of that, you could focus just on the logistics are hard enough. You don't need the shame.So many sad topics. Airlines are terrible. Virginia doesn't have any clothes to wear. ARFID is sad. Do we have anything to bring it up?CorinneWell, our exciting news? VirginiaOh, right! We are working on some very fun things.It is exciting to think about new directions that Burnt Toast and Big Undies are going in. So stay tuned. Don't worry, it's not a reality TV show.ButterVirginiaOkay, my Butter is adjacent to the wardrobe frustration conversation. Which is: I have started cutting the collars off a lot of my shirts.To back up: Last month, I'm on vacation in Cape Cod with my sister, and she comes down looking extremely cute. She's wearing a graphic tee tucked into a long maxi skirt. And I was like, “This whole thing is delightful. What's happening here?” And she was like, “Well, this shirt was actually too small for me, but I realized if I just cut the collar off it, it opened up the neck enough that then the shirt, the whole shirt fit better.” And she could still wear this cute shirt. And she said she got the idea from watching Somebody Somewhere, because Bridgett Everett cuts the collars off all her shirts.CorinneOh yes! That was my signature look when I was 18. A Hanes T-shirt with the collar cut off.VirginiaI'm dressing like 18-year-old Corinne, and I'm here for it! But I've realized, frequently a place that something doesn't fit me is my neck. I've talked about feelings about chins and necks. I have many complicated feelings about chins and necks. This is one place where my fatness sits. So the shirt might otherwise fit okay, but it doesn't fit my neck, and then it feels tight and it's a miserable feeling. So at the end of our trip, I wanted to buy a Cape Cod sweatshirt, because there were some really cute sweatshirts. But they were not size inclusive. So I was like, can I make this extra large work? And it was a little small, but I cut the collar off, and now it's okay.And then I did it with my old Harris Walz T-shirt from the election. It was a cute stripe. I just really liked the stripe. And I was like, Oh, I could still wear this if I get the collar off it. And a couple other things. I've just been, like, cutting collars off shirts that are uncomfortable. I'm into it!CorinneI think that's a great Butter. I'm into any kind of clothes modification that will make you wear stuff that you wouldn't otherwise wear.VirginiaIt was a good solution for a couple of things in my closet that I did like, but I was not reaching for. And now I'll use them again. And the key I figured out, because I experimented with a couple ways to cut it, is really just cut right along the seam of the sewed on collar. You might think that's going to not open it up enough, but it will stretch once you start wearing it. you could always cut more if you needed to, but that seems to have done it for me.CorinneOkay, well, I want to recommend a recipe, and I feel like I possibly mentioned this before. I'm staying with my mom, and we've been making this recipe from the New York Times called stuffed zucchini, and it's a really good recipe for if you have a surplus of zucchini, which a lot of people do this time of year. You kind of scoop out the middle of a zucchini and then mix some of that together with, like, sausage, tomatoes, basil, and then put it back in the zucchini and bake it with, like, some crispy breadcrumbs, and it's so good. I can literally, eat a whole zucchini in one sitting. Highly recommend.VirginiaThat sounds amazing. All right. Well, that makes me a little more excited about the season.CorinneYeah, it is a very good time of year for eating. We should have talked more about food maybe?VirginiaThat is a good point. Our tomatoes in the garden are going gangbusters. I've made some great sauces. I'm having a lot of cheese and tomato sandwiches. toasted and not toasted. Delightful.Well, this was a good family meeting catch up. I think we've covered a lot of ground. I'm excited to hear what folks are feeling about their dressing issues, and airlines, all the stuff we got into today.The Burnt Toast Podcast is produced and hosted by Virginia Sole-Smith (follow me on Instagram) and Corinne Fay, who runs @SellTradePlus, and Big Undies—subscribe for 20% off!The Burnt Toast logo is by Deanna Lowe.Our theme music is by Farideh.Tommy Harron is our audio engineer.Thanks for listening and for supporting anti-diet, body liberation journalism!. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit virginiasolesmith.substack.com/subscribe

Are you ready to learn the secrets to travel hacking?Our guest today is Megan Lanford, founder of Points Too Paradise, and she's here to reveal how you can turn your everyday spending into incredible travel experiences. I've dabbled in this world herself, and let me tell you, after listening to Megan, I have to admit I've barely scratched the surface. It's time to stop leaving thousands of dollars in points on the table and start playing the game smarter.In this episode, you'll learn about:The biggest mistake entrepreneurs make and how a simple switch can earn you thousands of points.The secret to getting 2-3x the value out of your points by transferring them to airline and hotel partners.Open up multiple credit cards?How to use the "Player 2 Method" to double your points with a spouse or partner.The difference between flexible point cards (like Chase) and co-branded cards (like Hyatt or Southwest).Does travel hacking increase or decrease your credit score?The best credit cards to start with and which ones to avoidEpisode Timestamps:00:02:00 – A personal story of using credit card points to travel six times a year.00:03:00 – The biggest mistake business owners make and how to fix it.00:05:00 – The secret to 2-3x your point value and how to transfer points.00:09:00 – Why one credit card may be holding you back and the strategy of opening new cards.00:11:00 – How to keep track of multiple credit cards with the Travel Freely app.00:19:00 – The Player 2 Method for doubling your points with a partner.00:25:20 – Blackout dates, family travel, and the complexity of booking with points.00:28:45 – Final advice for getting started and learning more.About Megan Lanford & Points Too Paradise: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pointstooparadise/ Travel Points Lounge - https://pointstooparadise.com/travel-points-lounge?am_id=megan5551Card Concierge - https://pointstooparadise.com/card-concierge?am_id=megan1610For Real on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forrealwithmegan/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ForRealPodcastHosted by Megan Gillikin, For Real is presented by The Planner's Vault, and is produced by Walk West. Feeling the pull to pause and realign? Join me October 27–30 in Ocean Isle Beach, NC for my Restore & Realign Retreat, only a few spots left! Reserve yours here: https://www.theplannersvault.com/restore-realign-retreat-application

Seattle-based Indigenous funk/jazz band Khu.éex' is an ensemble full of storytellers and their stories carry a punch. They are back with another double album titled, “Red Cedar in the Hour of Chaos.” They carry on their unique P Funk-inspired sound and blend it with hip-hop, doom metal and psychedelia, all while drawing from Tlingit, Haida, and other Native roots. Another band, this one from the Southwest, weaves Diné stories and concepts into their just-released album filled with neo-soul and jazz influences. “Yáágo Dootliźh” is the second album from the Indigenous soul collective Earth Surface People. We'll talk with members of both these groups about the power of Native storytelling through music. GUESTS Preston Singletary (Tlingit), co-founder of Khu.éex', musician, and glass artist Sondra Segundo (Haida), lead female vocalist for Khu.éex', author, and educator Dakota Yazzie (Diné), leader of Earth Surface People

Send us a textDrew escorts a 737 and Doug is back from Zurich and New York. We discuss:The difference between the airport operations area and the movement area Helping an AvGeek with trip routingAn update on Southwest's long-haul ambitionsDelta/AeroMexico joint venture in jeopardy Is the ultra low-cost airline model dead?Join The Network!https://www.nexttripnetwork.com/

Yvette Borja interviews Joa Jacobo, the Southwest editor of Caló News about the state of Latine-led local News in Arizona, the challenges of creating culturally-relevant content, and what is missing from the media landscape from the perspective of Latinx consumers. To support the podcast, become a patreon & get access to the #litreview, a bookclub for Cachimbonas: https://patreon.com/radiocachimbona?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Follow @radiocachimbona on Instagram, X, and Facebook

Russ McSpadden works to protect public lands and the wildlife who call them home in Arizona and the rest of the Southwest. Before joining the Center in 2012, Russ engaged in grassroots environmental activism. He holds a master's degree in environmental history from Florida Atlantic University. Show Notes In this episode of the Rewilding Earth […] Read full article: Episode 155: Jaguars, Justice, and the Border Wall – Stories from the Frontlines With Russ McSpadden

The conversation revolves around a movie featuring Ice Cube, discussing its production challenges, character interactions, and overall quality. The participants critique the film's visual effects, plot points, and the performances of the actors, while also sharing humorous insights and personal anecdotes related to the film's themes. In this conversation, the participants delve into various aspects of filmmaking, including the impact of visual effects, the use of clichés in storytelling, and the role of technology in modern cinema. They also explore the humor found in film critique and discuss the implications of government secrecy on public perception. Through their discussions, they highlight the absurdities and challenges faced in the film industry today. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into various themes including conspiracy theories, the nature of friendship, and the cultural impact of aliens and data consumption. They explore the significance of connections in their lives, reflect on the classic 'War of the Worlds', and discuss the fast-paced nature of modern media consumption. The dialogue is filled with humor and insightful commentary on pop culture and character development in movies. In this conversation, the participants engage in a humorous and critical analysis of a movie, discussing casting choices, character dynamics, and the role of product placement. They challenge the status quo of filmmaking, particularly in relation to Amazon's influence, while also reflecting on the absurdities and cultural references within the film. The discussion flows through various themes, including humor, critique of logic, and the overall experience of watching the movie together.

Episode 138 of the Award Travel 101 podcast opens with Angie Sparks and Mike Zaccheo discussing a highlight post from member Luis, who was abruptly shut down by Amex with over two million points at stake. The community debated the best redemption strategy—ranging from Delta (discouraged) to BA, Aeroplan, or spreading across multiple programs including Hilton. News updates included Capital One removing Priority Pass restaurant benefits from Venture X Biz cards, a Chase 20% Flying Blue transfer bonus, and Southwest rolling out free Wi-Fi for Rapid Rewards members. They also highlighted multiple transfer bonuses across Hilton, Marriott, and Virgin and reminded listeners of tools like the Transfer Bonus Calculator.The main topic centered on Hilton Honors, with Angie pointing out positives like Hilton's large global footprint, easy paths to status via co-branded Amex cards, and its uncapped free night certificates (FNCs)—which remain among the most flexible in the industry. Mike countered with drawbacks, noting significant devaluations in 2025, with standard awards now topping 250,000 points per night at premium properties. Benefits can feel weaker than other chains, particularly in the U.S. where breakfast is replaced by limited food and beverage credits and parking fees still apply on award stays. They reviewed Hilton's four credit card options, their earning rates, elite benefits, and statement credits, as well as the frequent buy-points promos and Amex transfer bonuses.The tip of the week covered how to generate and add an Atmos virtual card to Apple Pay using the BOA app, offering a workaround for those still waiting on their physical cards. Overall, the episode balanced community highlights, industry news, and a deep dive into Hilton's strengths and weaknesses for travelers navigating the ongoing devaluation landscape.Links to Topics DiscussedCapital One Venture X Business Eliminates Priority Pass Restaurant BenefitChase to Flying Blue Transfer BonusSouthwest Free WiFiHilton Honors DevaluationWhere to Find Us The Free Award Travel 101 Community. To book time with our team, check out Award Travel 1-on-1. You can also email us at 101@award.travel Our partner CardPointers helps us get the most from our cards. We love being able to automatically add all of our offers and quickly seeing the best card to use for every purchase. Signup today at https://cardpointers.com/at101 for a 30% discount on annual and lifetime subscriptions! Lastly, we appreciate your support of the AT101 Podcast/Community when you signup for your next card! Technical note: Some user experience difficulty streaming the podcast while connected to a VPN. If you have difficulty, disconnect from your VPN.

Negotiators representing seven states, 30 tribes, and Mexico are running out of time to agree on new rules to guide sharing of Colorado River water before a federally mandated deadline next fall. Failure to do so would forfeit water allocation authority to the Bureau of Reclamation, and costly state and tribal litigation would be argued before the U.S. Supreme Court.  Potable water supply for much of the West is not all that's at stake in managing demands on the river's supply. “Deadpool” levels in the reservoirs at Lake Powell and Lake Mead would result in inability of the Glen Canyon and Hoover Dams to generate hydropower. The establishment of new post-2026 operating guidelines among the river's competing stakeholders is a complex undertaking, consuming much of the region's attention and effort.  However, an analysis published last week by six leading scholars in the basin warns that immediate, substantial action to conserve water is needed. Their study suggests that if the coming year's patterns of water supply and use mirror past years, then by the time any hard-won new guidelines are in place, the basin may already be in serious trouble.  In this episode, study author Kathryn Sorensen and water policy expert Sarah Porter provide perspectives on the near-term science, human behavior, and potential solutions relating to conditions around the Colorado River.  Relevant articles and resources  “Analysis of Colorado River Basin Storage Suggests Need for Immediate Action” (Jack Schmidt, Anne Castle, John Fleck, Eric Kuhn, Kathryn Sorensen, Kathrine Tara, September 2025) “As the Colorado River slowly dries up, states angle for influence over future water rights” (The Conversation, August 2025)  “Inside the ‘revolutionary' new Colorado River proposal” (E&E News by Politico, July 2025)Colorado River Shortage: What This Means for Arizona & What Comes Next (Arizona Water Blueprint)  “The Colorado River needs some ‘shared pain' to break a deadlock, water experts say” (KUNC, May 2025)  “Floating Pools & Grand Bargains” (Kyl Center for Water Policy at Morrison Institute, April 2025)   Relevant Ten Across Conversations podcasts  Checking in on Tense Colorado River Negotiations with Anne Castle and John Fleck  Understanding Groundwater Risks in the Southwest with Jay Famiglietti  Experts Share Insights on the Ongoing Colorado River Negotiations  Why Everyone Should Care About the Colorado River with Rhett Larson  Getting Honest About the Colorado River Crisis with Anne Castle & John Fleck  The Future of Water is Here: Are We Ready?  CreditsHost: Duke ReiterProducer and editor: Taylor GriffithMusic by: Johan Glössner and Daniel GunnarssonResearch and support provided by: Kate Carefoot, Rae Ulrich, and Sabine Butler  About our guestsSarah Porter is the director of the Kyl Center for Water Policy at Arizona State University's Morrison Institute for Public Policy, and professor of practice in ASU's College of Global Futures. Sarah previously served as the Arizona state director of the National Audubon Society and led their Western Rivers Project. She also serves on Governor Katie Hobbs' Water Policy Council, the City of Phoenix's Environmental Quality and Sustainability Commission, and several other community boards. In 2023, she was named to the Arizona Capitol Times Powerlist as an “Unsung Hero,” in recognition of her work on Arizona water policy.  Kathryn Sorensen is director of research at the Kyl Center for Water Policy and a Senior Global Futures Scientist at Arizona State University's Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory. Kathryn is also a member of the Colorado River Research Group and board member on the Water & Health Advisory Council. Kathryn previously served as director of City of Phoenix Water Services and director of the Water Resources Department at the City of Mesa.

Are you ready for a trip through the United States? Pack your bags — because today we're starting a special journey! In this first episode, we'll travel to the Southeast: Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama. Next time, we'll continue our trip to the Northeast, then to the Midwest, and finally we'll finish in the West and Southwest. Get the transcript here: https://speakenglishpodcast.com/the-weird-wonderful-origins-of-us-state-names-southeast

Legendary Massachusetts-born, California-based musician Peter Rowan is best known for his bluegrass roots. A practicing Buddhist, he did time in Bill Monroe's Blue Grass Boys as well as in the short-lived and epically important Old & In the Way with Jerry Garcia and David Grisman. However, his latest album 'Tales of the Free Mexican Airforce' celebrates the music of the Southwest and draws a throughline from Tex-Mex to bluegrass. Rowan has a long history with this music from his very first solo record, which includes the original recording of "The Free Mexican Airforce" as well as "Midnight-Moonlight." Both of those classic Rowan compositions got re-recorded for the new record and feature the late great Flaco Jiménez (as did the original 1978 recordings), who just passed away in July of 2025.In our Basic Folk conversation, we talk about Flaco's enthusiasm for Peter's music, the many collaborations they recorded. and why he included a recording of Flaco speaking on the album. Peter speaks about how immigrants and musical culture from Latin America are constantly inspiring him and keeping him patriotic. He also spoke about what keeps him aging well, what his energy and enthusiasm look like at 83 years old, and, of course, Bill Monroe's baseball team.Follow Basic Folk on social media: https://basicfolk.bio.link/Sign up for Basic Folk's newsletter: https://bit.ly/basicfolknewsHelp produce Basic Folk by contributing: https://basicfolk.com/donate/Interested in sponsoring us? Contact BGS: https://bit.ly/sponsorBGSpodsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

If you're not a patron, subscribe at patreon.com/workstoppage to get full access to the episode. For the first of two episodes focusing on the struggle of miners in the Southwest, we discuss the critical role played by Mexican miners in the growth of the US electrical industry at the turn of the 20th century. As demand for copper exploded, the mines of Arizona and northern Mexico became incredibly valuable, and thus demand for labor soared.  Mine owners used racial hierarchies and job segregation to split their workers against each other to prevent the power of solidarity from shutting down their isolated mining towns. Mexican miners organized in the thousands, but were often refused solidarity from the house of labor, whether the AFL or the Western Federation of Miners. We discuss the bloody struggles for fair wages and safe working conditions in the early 1900s, as Mexican miners were often forced to stand alone against the tyranny of the bosses and the state, waging heroic struggles and paying for every extra cent they earned with blood.  Join the discord: discord.gg/tDvmNzX  Follow the pod at instagram.com/workstoppage, @WorkStoppagePod on Twitter,  John @facebookvillain, and Lina @solidaritybee

Summary: In this episode of the Customer Service Revolution, Denise Thompson and John DiJulius discuss the changing landscape of customer service, particularly focusing on Southwest Airlines. They explore how the airline, once a leader in customer satisfaction, is facing challenges due to management decisions prioritizing profits over customer experience. The conversation delves into the importance of employee engagement, the impact of negative cues in customer interactions, and the need for businesses to maintain a customer-centric approach to thrive in a competitive market. Takeways: Southwest Airlines was once a leader in customer service. The airline's profitability has declined due to management decisions. Happy employees lead to happy customers. Negative cues can significantly impact customer experience. The language used in customer interactions matters. Management's paranoia can lead to overly strict policies. Companies built on customer experience tend to outperform others. The tone of voice in customer service is crucial. Southwest's shift from open seating to assigned seating reflects broader industry trends. Customer service strategies must evolve to maintain relevance. Chapters: 00:00Introduction and Overview of Customer Service Revolution 02:00The Evolution of Southwest Airlines 04:18Profitability and Customer Experience 09:25Negative Cues in Customer Service 16:45Conclusion and Final Thoughts   This episode is sponsored by Fin.  Learn more at Fin.ai/csrevolution Links: Fin.ai/csrevolution  Learn more about how Fin, the #1 customer service agent! Customer Experience Executive Academy: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/project/cx-executive-academy/ Interview Questions: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/resources/ The DiJulius Group Methdology: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/x-commandment-methodology/ Experience Revolution Membership:  https://thedijuliusgroup.com/membership/ Schedule a Complimentary Call with one of our advisors:  tdg.click/claudia Books:  https://thedijuliusgroup.com/shop/ Zappos call:  https://thedijuliusgroup.com/is-zappos-really-that-good-at-customer-service-manager-fired-for-responses-to-online-reviewers/ Blogs on Above and Beyond Culture: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/category/above-beyond-culture/ Contacts:  Lindsey@thedijuliusgroup.com , Claudia@thedijuliusgroup.com Subscribe We talk about topics like this each week; be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts so you don't miss an episode.

Matthew Kuntz with VR Pools. We'll discuss the importance of having a professional to keep your pool healthy.Then we'll talk with Fareed Alshami of Vibrance Automotive. They are your one stop shop to keep your vehicle safe and on the road.

This week: Guest Co-Host Oscar Munoz, Guest: Nat Pieper, CEO. Oneworld. Topics: Conference season comments; Southwest moves towards introducing premium experiences and international service; Listener Q's on social media impacting Spirit's brand, Southwest O & D saturation and use of RJs.

One of the best parts of running a game studio and policy shop here at Riskgaming at Lux Capital is the actual public launch of a new game. That day is today, because we are dropping Southwest Silicon to the world. It's a game that models the tensions between residents, farmers as well as old and new industries in the context of the rise of chip fabs in Arizona. Water security is one of the most challenging and complex issues facing the American Southwest, and through the lens of nine characters in the game, we hope to leave every player with a more profound set of questions on what's next as America continues to grow.On the podcast today, host Danny Crichton talks with the game's designer, Ian Curtiss. Ian previously designed our Chinese electric vehicle scenario, Powering Up, and now he brings his hometown lens to bear on the future of advanced manufacturing and economic development.The two talk about the game's design, its implications and what we've witnessed as we have watched players the world over compete over the future of silicon and sand. Listen in, and we hope you join a live runthrough soon — or host your own.

This conversation is a continuation of the celebration of collaboration happening in the Memphis Medical District. Dr. Tracy Hall of Southwest Community College and Dr. Hampton Hopkins of Baptist Health Sciences University join the dialogue to share the ways their institutions are working in parallel and in partnership to shape the future workforce of the city. Resources mentioned in this episode include: Southwest Tennessee Community College Baptist Health Sciences University Baptist Memorial Health Care Southwest's Southwest Entertainment Production Initiative (SEPI) Southwest becomes first TN community college with aviation program (WREG News 3) Baptist College of Osteopathic Medicine to open in Memphis (WMC News 5) Baptist University College of Osteopathic Medicine Local university receives $1 million from First Horizon's foundation Memphis Medical District Collaborative Assisi Foundation of Memphis Tennessee Board of Regents This episode is made possible in partnership with Independent Bank.

Tropical Storm Mario could send tropical moisture into Southern California and the Southwest this week, raising the risk for showers, storms and flash flooding. Also, from pizza boxes to stuffed animals, geologists have found unusual trash across Yellowstone National Park this year after millions visited during the summer season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today on our show we have Pastor Gene Chewning. We'll talk about his lifelong mission to lead people to Christ and his new mission, pastoring in Europe.Then we'll be spending time with Frank THE TANK Lundin, of Picture Rocks Cooling Heating and Plumbing.

In this episode, we sit down with legendary Western Pop artist Billy Schenck to explore the stories, inspirations, and cinematic constructs behind his latest body of work. Known as one of the most influential painters of the Southwest, Schenck shares how he layers photography, memory, and imagination to create dynamic compositions that blur the line between realism and myth.From rodeo cowboys suspended mid-air to Navajo jewelers, Pueblo women with pottery, and sweeping Monument Valley horizons, Billy reveals how he constructs scenes using multiple photographic negatives, prehistoric pottery motifs, and a cinematic approach to light and shadow. His paintings capture the drama of Canyonlands, Cedar Mesa, and the San Juan River—infused with both historical reverence and contemporary vision.Hear about Schenck's deep fascination with prehistoric Southwest pottery, his process of integrating cottonwood trees and mesas into iconic Western landscapes, and his perspective as a former rodeo champion and cultural historian. The episode highlights signature works like "Shortcut" and portraits inspired by friends, neighbors, and fellow artists, while unpacking the balance of design, narrative, and authenticity in his art.Whether you are an art collector, student of Southwestern history, or admirer of Western iconography, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the mind of “the most interesting man in the West.”Explore Billy Schenck at Blue Rain Gallery: https://blueraingallery.com/artists/billy-schenckThis episode was hosted by gallery owner and founder Leroy Garcia, produced and edited by Leah Garcia, with original music by Mozart Gabriel Abeyta.Discover curated home goods and fine art prints by Blue Rain Gallery artists — only at BlueRainPrintShop.com. Bring the art you love into your everyday life.

This week on GJ, we speak with composer Nicolás Lell Benavides and librettist Marella Martin Koch about the dedication that went into creating Southwest Opera: Dolores. An opera adaptation of Dolores Huerta's life in 1968. We also bring you an interview with Dolores Huerta from March of this year. Nicolás Lell Benavides is a 2024 Guggenheim Fellow and has received commissions from West Edge Opera/San Diego Opera/Opera Southwest/BroadStage (Dolores), Music of Remembrance, The Washington National Opera, The Glimmerglass Festival, The New York Philharmonic/The Juilliard School, the LA Phil with Gustavo Dudamel, Eighth Blackbird, New Century Chamber Orchestra, and the Gabriela Lena Frank Creative Academy of Music with support from the likes of the Barlow Endowment, Opera America, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Marella Martin Koch is a librettist, playwright, and lyricist whose work explores agency and its absence. Her trio of operas with composer Nicolás Lell Benavides includes Pepito, Tres minutos, and Dolores. Recognized by Operawire for her “lean and well-trimmed” storytelling “full of nuance and emotional pull,” her theatrical writing has been produced in over one-fourth of the United States. When she is not writing, she enjoys working with high school, college, and graduate students in New York City and across the country.

Soil preparation is the foundation of a productive garden. Especially in the desert Southwest. Agriscaping.com's Justin Rohner talks about avoiding common mistakes, food for the soil with organic matter and more tips for peak garden production. Original broadcast archive page with expanded content https://rosieonthehouse.com/podcast/outdoor-living-hour-ultimate-garden-hour-and-soilprep4peakproduction-with-justin-rohner-of-agriscaping/

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The South West Chamber of Commerce serves the cities of Chaska, Chanhassen, Victoria & Carver as well as the broader Carver County area. Since combining the chambers several years ago, the combined efforts have been a force multiplier and enabled business to expand, network and collaborate across city boundaries to promote local business and commerce. Steve has brought a breath of varied work experience along with a renewed sense of enthusiasm. Steve shares the exciting events they have on the horizon.

In this lively conversation, the hosts share personal anecdotes about eye dilation and their cats before diving into a discussion about the film 'Caught Stealing.' They explore their initial reactions to the movie, character dynamics, and the impact of shocking plot twists. The conversation is filled with humor and insights, making it an engaging listen for film enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. In this engaging conversation, the hosts delve into the complexities of film, exploring themes of humor versus seriousness, character development, and the emotional impact of storytelling. They discuss the appeal of sadness in cinema, particularly in relation to Austin Butler's performances and Darren Aronofsky's unique filmography. The discussion also touches on the nature of thought-provoking cinema and the importance of films that leave a lasting impression on viewers. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of their discussions and the films they plan to cover.

We have Daniel Butierez, who is running for Congress. We'll dive into who he is and why he's running for Congress.Then we'll be talking to Erica Cantua. She's an event coordinator with Old Tucson. The famous movie studio and theme park.

A Clare woman is preparing to travel to Uganda to assist in voluntary projects in the African country. Retired teacher Phil Molony will head to the South-West of Uganda to help out with two projects. Phil has been involved in work in the Mbarara area in the western part of the country since 1993. A fundraising coffee morning will be held in the Old Ground Hotel on Saturday, the 13th of September in the Town Hall Bistro. Alan Morrissey was joined by Phil on Thursday's Morning Focus to find out more. Photo (c) Phil Molony

Ben Criddle talks BYU sports every weekday from 2 to 6 pm.Today's Co-Hosts: Ben Criddle (@criddlebenjamin)Subscribe to the Cougar Sports with Ben Criddle podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/cougar-sports-with-ben-criddle/id99676

Tribes are seeking to flex whatever legal muscle they have to secure Colorado River water protections, just as forecasts show the resource to continue to disappear in the foreseeable future. The tribes are hoping to gain whatever leverage they can as policymakers negotiate new water plans. More than 30 tribes and seven states utilize water from the Colorado River, which has been experiencing record low water levels from a decades-long drought. Stakeholders are having to rethink their water use and flex their legal claims to the resource as existing water use plans are set to expire. In one case, the Colorado River Indian Tribes are pursuing their own declaration, giving the river the same rights as a person. Tribal advocates say it could better protect the important lifeline that carves through several tribal lands in the arid Southwest. GUESTS Heather Tanana (Diné), initiative lead of the Universal Access to Clean Water for Tribal Communities and a law professor at the University of Denver Daryl Vigil (Jicarilla Apache), co-director of the Water & Tribes Initiative Amelia Flores (Colorado River Indian Tribe), chairwoman of the Colorado River Indian Tribes John Bezdek, water attorney for the Colorado River Indian Tribes and a shareholder of the Water and Power Law Group

What should the airlines do?     To advertise on our podcast, please reach out to sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/TheJeffWardShow

This week on our Midweek Mini, we get real about the struggle of choosing between multiple credit cards, elevated signup bonuses, and chasing a Southwest companion pass. We share our own moments of analysis paralysis and shiny new card syndrome, plus a few really hasty decisions that got one of us into some trouble. We also share tips for families on maximizing points, lounge access, and making smarter credit card decisions without losing your mind.Facebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogFind Us On InstagramMary Ellen | JoAffiliate LinksChase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!30% off the CardPointers subscription!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsComfrt Hoodie 15% OFF!Our Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

Unity isn't just a buzzword. It's the foundation for business growth and community impact. In this episode of Building Texas Business, I sit down with Jeff Williams, president of Graham Associates, to talk about how bringing people together drives both engineering success and civic transformation. Working with his firm who design iconic Texas projects including AT&T Stadium and Southlake Town Square, and during his three terms as Arlington mayor, he demonstrats how unity principles scale from boardroom to city hall. Jeff shares his approach to bridging generational divides through Friday "High Five" meetings that transformed skeptical baby boomers and millennials into collaborative teammates. His engineering firm rebuilt their office culture post-COVID by creating collaboration spaces and displaying core values throughout their workspace, showing employees they're not just designing roads but contributing to state-of-the-art hospitals. When people understand their larger purpose, engagement naturally follows. His upcoming book "The Unity Blueprint" captures lessons from leading Arlington through the pandemic faster than any other U.S. city, according to NYU research, and emphasizes that modern leadership requires teaching over commanding, with trust and value as non-negotiables for today's workforce. Success comes from transforming "my plan" into "our plan" through genuine input and buy-in, whether you're managing engineers or running a city. This conversation reveals how Texas businesses thrive by embracing partnerships over politics, with Jeff's $8 million citywide rideshare solution versus $50 million per mile for light rail proving that innovation beats tradition when unity guides decisions. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS Discover how weekly "High Five" meetings turned skeptical senior engineers into collaboration champions, bridging baby boomers and millennials Jeff details how Arlington saved millions by implementing $8 million annual autonomous rideshare instead of $50 million per mile light rail Learn why being the first U.S. city to run autonomous shuttles attracted Uber, Lyft, and Via to compete for Arlington's contract Hear how post-COVID office renovations with collaboration spaces and visible core values brought remote workers back to rebuild culture Jeff shares how a devastating referendum loss taught him that expertise means nothing if political consultants silence your voice Understand why the Medal of Honor Museum chose Arlington over Washington D.C.—Texas builds in years what takes decades elsewhere LINKSShow Notes Previous Episodes About BoyarMiller About Graham Associates GUESTS Jeff WilliamsAbout Jeff TRANSCRIPT (AI transcript provided as supporting material and may contain errors) Chris: In this episode, you'll meet Jeff Williams, CEO of Graham Associates and former mayor of Arlington, Texas. Jeff stresses the power of creating unity within a company to foster a strong culture and how training and developing your people it's critical to success. Jeff, I want to thank you for taking the time and welcome to Building Texas Business. It's great to be here. Jeff: Chris, it's always great to talk about Texas and especially business. Chris: Yes. So let's start with just introducing yourself and tell us what it is you do. What's your company known for? Jeff: Well, I own a civil engineering firm and we build communities. We design public infrastructure, highways, roads, utilities, but we also do sports facilities, churches, schools there. We've done a lot of different things. Some of our projects you might recognize in at and t Stadium, we were the civil engineers for it. And yes, we did work with the Jones family and we also also know Chris: Is Jerry World, right? Jeff: Absolutely. And it was an exciting project to work on and then it's amazing how well it's aged and still the top special event center here in the country. But then we've had South Lake Town Square, which was kind of the granddaddy of all of the town centers that's here and a really special place. Nebraska Furniture Mark. We got to work for Warren Buffett there and doing his grand scape development here in the Metroplex. But then we've also, we have Prestonwood Baptist Church, which one of the largest churches in the Southwest. So rewarding to be able to do that. And then we've got Westlake Academy, actually Westlake, Texas. We actually got to start from scratch there. It was a town that we got in on the very beginning. They had one subdivision and now they've got Fidelity's headquarters. Schwab is there, Deloitte, and then Viro, one of the most upscale developments in the state of Texas. So those are some of the fun projects that we've gotten to do. I think it's very rewarding. Chris: Yeah, no, I mean it sounds not just fun but impactful and kind of be able to look around and see how you've changed the landscape of your community, Jeff: Chris. That is so, so true. There's nothing better than to be able to take your family and friends to be able to show them what you've done, but even more importantly, to actually be at one of your projects and see people coming together and families enjoying a special place that we created. And of course that moves to unity and that's one of the things that I have grown to value more than anything else is bringing people together to make a difference. That's great. Well, Chris: We have the benefit here at Warrior Miller represent a lot of very successful real estate developers. And so I think I know our real estate team feels the same way is right working with the client to bring projects like that together and being able to, the benefit of doing the legal work for that and just see to go by years later and go, we worked on that project or that park or that building or that community center is really rewarding stuff. Jeff: Really is the mission of our company is to be an integral partner in building communities. Chris: I like that. So let's talk a little, I mean, what was the inspiration? Obviously you're engineer I guess by education, but what's been the inspiration for you to stay in this industry and build the company that you've Jeff: Built? Well, we just hit it. I feel like it's such an important part of being able to build these communities for people to live, work and play in. And then that actually led me to being actually recruited to run for mayor here in Arlington and to serve there. I served three terms as mayor. That's very unusual for engineers to move into that. I didn't realize it until after I was elected and there aren't many engineers that do that. But however, as an engineer, we have designed public infrastructure. We have to sell our projects to the citizens so many times we also understand schedules and budgets and being able to work through that. And so it really was a great fit for me there, although it's very challenging and people go, well, why would you do that? Well, the reason we'd do it, it's rewarding. It's the most rewarding job I've ever had. But it also is the hardest because you're working with so many different people. But it really increased my awareness that the last thing we need to be doing is to be having dissension and conflict all the time. Instead, we need to be bringing people together to make a difference and actually work on projects that can actually, people can get behind and have passion and discover their purpose. And then of course, the results of that have been actually to forge friendships. Chris: So I guess, how have you taken some of those lessons and lessons along the way and incorporated them into the company at Graham Associates to kind of build the team there? Jeff: Well, as I came out of serving as mayor, I ended my last term in 2021. We'd come out of the pandemic. There still were the lingering effects of it. People wanted to work from home. So however, in our business, in so many businesses, teamwork is a big part of what we need. Chris: Absolutely. Jeff: I read everything I could get ahold of because we are at the beginning of a technology revolution, but we also have societal changes that happen every few months or perhaps even sometimes monthly. So I needed to understand the young people, but also needed to figure out how to create an atmosphere to where our people wanted to be. So literally our offices, we redid everything in the way of so that we could be a very inviting place that our employees could be proud of, but also that our clients would want to come because those face-to-face meetings are still important. And then part of that impact too was that we try to create special places for collaboration and we have several collaboration rooms there. And so that was a key. But also in our Collins areas, we wanted to be uplifting. So in our kitchens we have those stocked, but we also put up positive phrases there that really epitomize our core values and we have our core values that our employees actually fed into. They're displayed everywhere. But then I ran into a roadblock because our older engineers said, Hey, why are we doing all of this? And then we started in on doing a Friday staff meeting where everyone came together and we call it our high five meeting, an opportunity for us to encourage each other and to be able to share some of the stories that happened that week. And man, my older engineer said, man, that's a whole hour of billable time that we could be having. And they didn't like it at all for the first couple of months. And then magic started happening. They started getting to know each other better. And so I had millennials getting along with the older baby boomers, they're an understanding each other and now they all look forward to it. And we do soft skill training and IT team building there also. But it is a time that we all look forward to and it built that camaraderie because we need teamwork and it helps to get them there. And so then I still allow my people to work one day a week at all. But then our project managers actually make the decision on how much more if someone wants to work from home more because it depends on the project and what we've got going, but yet our team understands now that they've got to be able to build those relationships. Well, I like what you pointed Chris: Out there is it's not a one size fits all game. You got to be flexible and listen. And I think as leaders, if you can communicate that so that your employees understand that they'll understand when you can't be as flexible as maybe they would like because the circumstances don't warrant that. But then when you can, you allow it, Jeff: Chris. That is so true, and you've got to value people and be able to listen to them. No longer can a manager when they ask you, why are we doing something? Because you can't say because I said so. Chris: No, Jeff: It's Chris: Because it's the way we've always done it. Jeff: Oh yes, that's another great line. That is a dinosaur that can't act more. But it's actually exciting to be able to share with our people why we're doing things and to be able to understand the big picture of that, Hey, this isn't that You're just designing a roadway to a hospital. You are contributing to the overall wellbeing of actually being a part of the team that constructs a state-of-the-art hospital that, Chris: Well, I think the other thing you've discovered, we see it here. It was certainly part of our culture before COVID and it's become an important part post COVID to regain connection. And that's getting people together in community, in the office, lunches, happy hours, breakfast, whatever, because then you use the word magic started to happen. I think that's right, that as we gain connection with our coworkers, that helps with retention, it helps with collaboration because we get to know each other a little better. Especially important I think not just in a post COVID world, but in the multi-generational office that we're dealing with. Right? Four and five generations in one office together don't necessarily see things eye to eye, but if you get to know somebody, you can break those barriers. Jeff: That's right. And that leads to something else that I've discovered. Even if you're an introvert and you think you don't need other people, it is amazing because God made us to live in community. And when you're coming together and aligning people with a purpose and you are working together, suddenly those barriers get broken down. And it doesn't matter the age difference, the color of your skin, all of those differences disappear because you're working together to make a difference. And suddenly, again, I'll mention you end up with friendships that are forged. In fact, if you think about it, probably your best friends are the ones that you worked on a project with. It might be for school, for church or in your work. And certainly it's awesome to be able to forge great friendships at your workplace. Chris: I love it. We haven't used the word really much, but it sounds like you're defining the culture that you're trying to build and nurture there. How would you describe the culture and anything else other than these kind of high five meetings and such that you're doing to try to help nurture the culture? Jeff: Well, I think the other part to round it out is that we have got to be focused on teaching and training. I think the culture has really got to be a teaching atmosphere. People don't respond to that type A manager that is forceful and raises their voice and all of that. It's more they've got to see that you value them, each one of these employees do. But then also it's not just in how you truth them. You need to take action in teaching and training them and show them how they are going to be able to help themselves and help the team overall by learning. And then of course, we also have to create that accountability because we aren't professional teachers. In fact, no matter what business we're in, most of us are not professional teachers. So we need our employees to be willing to ask questions and to be willing to be vulnerable, say, I really don't understand this. I need help on this. And that's where it's got to be a two-way street, but yet you cannot. You got to really foster that culture where they are willing to ask questions and to let you know that they don't know it there. But then we have the ability to focus in on what do they not understand and be able to get that training to help fill in that hole. Chris: Yeah, that's so important. So true. Let's just talk a little bit about technology and innovation. What are some of the things that you see and that you've tried to incorporate there from an innovative way of doing your work or how technology's changing the trends of how you go about your work? Jeff: Well, Chris, this is one of my favorite topics, and of course no surprise with me being an engineer, but we are really at the beginning of a technology revolution. In fact, I'll never forget, a few years ago I heard the head of IBM technology that was actually out of Belgium, and he said exactly that We are at the beginning of a technology revolution like the world has never seen, and we are going to see more change than we have ever experienced. Well, there is a little bit of a problem because most people don't like change. And yet we have got to be willing to adapt to that. And I challenge our engineers throughout when I'm speaking to engineering groups. So you guys have got to take the lead in that we, engineers are typically very conservative. They find a great way to do something or they want to stick with it. But however, because of new technology, we've got to be researching that technology. We've got to be looking to see what technology is good, what is not. We even need to be helping in the regulation of it. And so consequently, I'll say this, we have got to be researching AI and software that is coming out constantly. I have two people dedicated to that. Larger firms probably have whole departments that are dedicated because we have an opportunity to be able to do things better faster, but we've got to be able to be competitive. I don't want to wake up one day and all my competitors are being able to do things 30% cheaper than I can and beating my price point and actually able to serve the clients better. And I do equate it to when computers really came online in the eighties, we were all worried about, well, are we going to have a job? Oh, well. And then others would say, well, we're only going to work three days a week now because of computers. No, we saw ourselves become more productive and we will become more productive with AI and other technologies, but also even with the technology being able to incorporate how you use it. I'll give you an example of that. When I was serving as mayor, we were the first city in America to run an autonomous shuttle, a driverless shuttle there on a public streets. And it was amazing at work that we were all scared of it, but we actually challenged our city staff to be looking at new technologies that we could use to be able for transportation. And we said, Hey, let's open up our city as a laboratory. And so consequently, our staff came up with the idea that we really could have Uber and Lyft type process and actually have driverless shuttles that are seven passenger vans that could be going out throughout our city in a very cost effective way. That'd be much cheaper than high speed rail or light rail there. Of course, high speed rail is still a ways off. But anyway, long story short, we went out and did an RFQ, Uber, Lyft and a accompanied by the name of Via all proposed on it. And we ended up being the first city in America to implement technology rideshare and then added the autonomous vehicle to it. And now cities across America are doing that. And instead of paying 50 million a mile for light rail, we are end up calling actually covering our whole city 99 square miles for $8 million a year. It's an amazing thing and very cost effective. Everybody's business. We've got to look at how can we do things different and more cost effective utilizing the technology. Chris: Let's talk about a corollary to that. What are some of the trends you're seeing in your industry that we should be prepared for and maybe how is being based in Texas influencing those trends? Jeff: Well, it's growth, Chris. The growth is a big change in our business there because in growth is so big and so consequently the biggest resource we need or people, it's not, we can all buy our software, we can all buy our computers, but it's really about people. Every business I talk to, it's all about finding those people and then yet we've got to be willing to train them up there. And of course, really when you're hiring experienced people, many times that's just a stop gap because they don't quite fit what you need. So I think the big change that we're seeing trend that businesses are needing to train their workforce up and do that as fast as you can because we need more people to be able to fill those positions. So again, we've got to become teachers, we've got to be able to be efficient. And then I still think one of the biggest challenges in business and really in fact in America is that we have so much dissension. People have a tough time getting along with each other. Arguments come up and then suddenly that cancel culture comes and there's no forgiveness. It's I'm done with you. And that is a poison for business there. And none of us as managers want to spend all our time in conflict resolution. So to that, right? Chris: One of the things I talk about a lot is that if we can remember to give grace in the business world, we do have a personal life a lot, but for some reason we get into, then we think we switch and put the corporate hat on or business hat on and we kind of forget that. I think that is an important aspect to remember, to your point, it helps diffuse conflict. We're imperfect human beings. And so learning to have accountability but also with a touch of grace can help resolve conflict, avoid conflict mitigated in the workplace. Jeff: That's so true. Chris. I had an interesting thing happen along these same lines as New York University actually studied Arlington when I was mayor, and they got attracted initially that we had become the sports capital of the nation, but yet they looked at how we did things. And I needed help as a mayor, so I sought out people. I needed experts, I needed people that would work. I needed input from our citizens. And so we ended up working together to accomplish a lot of things. We had to work to keep the Texas Rangers here in town. There were a lot of other cities that wanted to move them out of our community. We also had not been bringing in jobs there. And in 2014, the year before I came in, the big headlines read that the DFW Metropolitan area had created more jobs in any other metropolitan area in the country, and Arlington was not doing that. And so we had to jumpstart that economy and then yet I needed to unite our leaders and we did that. And throughout the pandemic and so forth, New York University studied us and they believed we came out of the pandemic quicker than any other city in America, both physically and economically. And so they encouraged me to write a book on Unity and how you did it. And they also then took it a step further and they went to Forbes and I ended up signing a book contract with Forbes and were releasing the Unity Blueprint on September the ninth. That really is that plan. Therefore being able to bring people together in both your personal life, your life, and then even our civic involvement and so forth there. And that has been a big change for me really since I came into office. I always valued people, but now getting it, taking it to the next step of unity because how much time is wasted there when your employees are fighting with each other or arguing and then it's a lasting effect. They never work together as well. And so working and creating that culture and actually adding forgiveness to your core value I think is a very important thing. But then also getting people to adopt character values themselves, to have a foundation that they can work with. And when you see people working to be a person of character, there can be forgiveness, but there's not much room for forgiveness when it's constantly on the other person. It's a tough deal. Right. Well, Chris: I didn't realize about the book. That sounds, I'm excited to see it and read it, and I don't know if there's anything that kind of comes out of that as a tidbit that you might be able to share with us now the listeners about maybe obviously the lessons you've learned along the way, kind of that something that you've incorporated into your kind of leadership style that has helped foster unity within the organizations you've run. Jeff: Always amazed when a person gets appointed president of his company or gets elected to a position and many times they don't have a plan. And then in addition to that, if they do have a plan, many times they didn't get any input on it. They literally concocted a plan of their own versus the opportunity for you to work on a vision and a plan after you have researched it, and then you take it to your employees and get feedback from them. And suddenly that plan transforms from your plan to our plan. And it's amazing when you get that buy-in, how it can really work together, and you're not having to sell your plan all the time. They're doing it for you, and it makes all the difference. I'm very excited about being able to move out there around the country and pushing towards unity as a matter of fact, and our book has already reached the number one new release by Amazon. They're in both business and Christian leadership, so I'm pumped about that. That's awesome. Congratulations. But we're not perfect people. We all need the space, but if you're employees can see that you're working towards it, if your fellow employees can see you are working towards being that person of character and wanting to do it. Now, we landed in the middle of honor museum here in Arlington there. We were in a 20 city competition for that, and it's probably one of the greatest things I've ever been involved in. We had a six month journey there and competing against the other cities and it was a national museum. And you go, well, why didn't they go to Washington dc? Well, the reason they didn't is going to take 20 years to get it built. And we in Texas here, can get things built quick, can't we? Right. You've got great contractors, architects, engineers to make that happen. And real estate people, Chris real estate people, government. Chris: That wants to get stuff done, right? That's right. Yeah. Rather than being an impediment to getting stuff done. Jeff: Well, the middle of honor museum or the Medal of Honor recipients that were leading that recognize that very thing, they also saw that we are the center of patriotism and we can get things done. We have a track record do it. Chris: I had there's, we could do a whole episode I think just on that museum. I had the privilege, Texas Capital Bank did a little Texas tour and they hosted something here in Houston that I was invited to all about the museum, what it is, how it came about. Very unique, very special, very proud that it's going to be in Texas and hopefully more people will take time to get to know what this is all about and then go visit it once it opens. Jeff: Well, the thing that surprised me is when I actually visited with these Living Medal of Honor recipients, and each one of them has pledged to spend the rest of their life making more of a difference there. And what they're doing is they are pushing character values, integrity, sacrifice, courage, commitment, citizenship and patriotism. Well, that's what all of us need. And currently the state board of education here in Texas has adopted a two week curriculum that our students will study in school and then they'll be able to take a field trip to the museum or a virtual field trip. And I think that's gotten everybody excited that that is happening. And then of course, it's not just the youth, our adults too. So there are adult programs that are going on, but it had me reassess my core values. It had me to, I really wanted to reassess my character values and so forth. And in business it always starts with you got to do what you say you're going to do. But then I had an interesting thing happen and I pretty well knew the answer when I asked it, but I was speaking to 20 Chick-fil-A managers, and of course Chick-fil-A is number one in service, aren't they? Chris: Right? Jeff: I asked them, I said, guys, what are you looking for and you're leader? And they immediately spoke up and they said, we are looking for a leader that we can trust, and then we're looking for a leader that values us. I think that's where it starts for us then in Texas. We know that we get that right and we believe in partnerships and collaboration, and I think that separates us from so many other places in the country. Chris: So kind of tagging on with leadership, lots of theories and about how to become a leader, how to grow as a leader. I think you hit it on the nail on the head when you said you got to be a man of your word or a person of your word. Do what you say you're going to do when you say you're going to do it. It's kind of a foundational element, but I know from my own personal experience and talking to others, we learn a lot as leaders from mistakes we've made. And I'm just curious to know if you could share one of those rather than a mistake. I call it a learning moment where it didn't go as planned, but you learned from that and from that it actually probably accelerated your leadership skills because of it. Jeff: Yes, no doubt about it. That's very easy for me to say because one of the biggest disappointments I had in my career is we had worked on a Johnson Creek Greenway here in Arlington. It was a nine mile creek beautiful creek, and we also were going to be doing a river walk in the entertainment district around those stadiums and so forth. And we had done all the preliminary planning there. It got through the core of engineers, and we also had held major charettes. We were winning awards from all over the country. I was actually traveling and speaking on that. I had an incredible partner with me, a guy by the name of Jim Richards. I loved working with our team and I thought, this is what I'm going to be doing the next 10 years. But however, the city had to pass a sales tax selection to fund the project, and they hired a political consultant that came in and said, Hey, I think you guys ought to attach an arts referendum on this. The Johnson Creek project is so popular, the Riverwalk will go, let's attach that to it. And then there was one other thing that came in that was so unique, and that was that some of our people had actually gotten a agreement with Smithsonian to build a branch museum on this Johnson Creek river wall. And so they put that on the agenda there for an election, but the political consultants said, we don't want anybody doing anything. They said, we do not want Jeff Williams and my other partner going out and speaking, what if you make a mistake and you say the wrong thing or you stir people up? And then they also did not really realize that our refer referendum was very popular. We lost that election by a few hundred loaves. It was one of the most devastating things. And it's taken 20 years. A lot of it's been And it changed my whole career there because I had to study why did this happen? How did it happen? And I said, I have got to learn about how to handle sales tax and bond elections. And so I studied hard and in fact, I learned a lot on the Cowboys sales tax election because we had that coming up a few years after that. And we were prepared when we got into the Cowboys sales tax election. And I ran several school and city bond elections after that. There's times when you have to learn more and to be able to take control. And little did I know that it's going to prepare me for serving as mayor later on too. But I'll never forget, in 2008, we had a recession and y'all may recall that. And we had a bond program going on for public works and parks, and I was not mayor then of just engineer. And we were in trouble because if we didn't get these road projects through, and actually some of these parts projects, we had buildings that were in badly needed repair wreck centers, so forth, we had to again, engage more people and raise more money. And we went ahead with that sales tax or I should say bond program, and we were able to get it passed in the midst of that. And again, I think unity and learning about knowledge there played a huge pull. I'm a big researcher. I love to, and there are so many books out there, but also generally we never come up. We think that we come up with some creative idea that no one has ever done well, especially in business. Somebody has done it. Find them, find and you can learn from their mistakes and hopefully not make your own, but also learn from their successes. But great question, Chris. Chris: Yeah, no, you're so right. I mean, I tell people never stop learning. Be curious. We learn from our mistakes. We can learn from others and we can learn from our successes because sometimes we're successful despite ourselves or despite the plan. Lots of people will tell you it's good to be lucky every now and again. So sometimes that happens. But if you take the time to learn the why behind the success or the failure you will have learning and then that learning you will grow from Jeff: You just spur the thought that I think is so important as you are a success as you grow in your success in business. There, the ego definitely comes up. And then we all know that we've got to be careful and be humble, but I want to create a definition for humbleness because so many times when we hear humble, it goes, oh, well, you need to be modest. You never to don't need to show that confidence and so forth are really, I think the important thing about humbleness is that you need to realize that you are vulnerable and that we need other people. And you can't do it alone and you don't need to do it alone because you'll not really succeed as well. So as a leader, you walk along a cliff every day and we need people to be able to keep us from falling off. And I think you've got to continue to remember that every step of the way and there's always somebody that has a better idea. Let's go find it. Chris: Yeah, that's great. Jeff, this has been a great conversation. Just love your insights and your input. Can't wait to see the book. Unity. I want to turn just a little before we wrap up, is there a favorite spot in Texas that enjoy visiting or just kind of think about when are not doing all the engineering work and planning communities? Jeff: I love Texas. There are so many rural areas and cities, but I've got to share with you about three quick ones right here. One, Arlington, Texas has become the destination between Orlando and Vegas. And it is amazing how you can come now to the metroplex and you can see all kinds of events that are taking place there in our stadiums. And it may not be sporting, it may be concerts, it may be wrestling, who knows what it may be there going on. But then also we have the premier park in the state of Texas, I believe in River Legacy Parks, 1300 acres on the Trinity River bottoms and all of the tree growth and everything is still there. Amazing place with a world-class nature center there in it. But then you can go to Fort Worth and experience the Texas experience, the Stockyards, and then the world-class museum. And so we do staycations here because we don't want to take advantage of that. But then I'll hit two others real quick. Lubbock, Texas, I know you're going to go what in the world? Check out that restaurant scene and check out the music scene that is out there. And then Tex always got things going on, but of course we love Austin, San Antonio there in particular, Fredericksburg, east Texas and Tyler is awesome, but we have found a great beach in Port Aransas, har cinnamon chores for sure. We love it Chris: A lot to offer, right? Big state. A lot to offer. We accommodate all types and tastes. Right. Well that's one of the things I love about the state of Texas is if you can kind of find anything that any interest you have, we can satisfied. Jeff: That's right. That's Chris: Maybe not snow skiing. We hadn't figured that one out yet. But other than that, I think we got you covered. Jeff: Yeah, that's right. And of course Colorado's worried Texans are going to take over Colorado. We do head up there to do our skiing Chris: For sure. Okay, last question. Do you prefer Tex-Mex or barbecue? Jeff: Oh my goodness. I hate to make this choice, but I've got to talk barbecue. We have a really neat story here in Arlington with Harto Barbecue. This was a guy that was a backyard barbecue or Brandon, he's Texas monthly now has him in the top 50. But it was really neat. We had the first neutral World Series here in Arlington. You remember during the pandemic they picked us to in the LA Dodgers in Tampa came to town. The LA Dodgers found the small little barbecue spot of Hertado here in downtown Arlington and it went viral. They put it on social media. Everybody found Brandon Hertado, including Taylor Sheridan and Taylor Sheridan with Ellison started having him out to his parties and now he signed an agreement with four six's ranch that Taylor owns to supply the beef. And he's now got several restaurants. It's just a really neat story. And how many times is it so fun for us in Texas to discover that next new barbecue spot? Got 'em all over the place. It's awesome. That is a cool Chris: Story. I've not heard of that, but now I'm going to have to go try some, so love it. Well, Jeff, this has been great. I really appreciate you taking the time, love your story and just congratulations for all the success you've had, and I know you'll continue to that into the future. Jeff: Thank you, Chris, and look forward to continuing this relationship. And thank you for what you're doing here on the podcast. Chris: Absolutely. Jeff: And remember, let's build Unity and the Unity blueprint. Special Guest: Jeff Williams.

Ever wondered how you can fly someone for free on all your Southwest® flights for the next year or two? The Southwest® Companion Pass® is one of the most valuable perks in travel rewards, especially for families who travel frequently. It allows a companion to fly with you for just taxes and fees, giving you the chance to maximize your trips without extra cost. With recent changes to Southwest® credit cards and policies, knowing how to earn and use the pass effectively is key.   The Travel Mom Squad breaks down the essential strategies for earning the Southwest® Companion Pass® through credit card welcome offers. They explain the main paths to earning enough points to qualify, the timing strategies to avoid common mistakes, and how to coordinate personal and business cards to make the process simpler. The Squad also shares insights on using referral bonuses to get additional points and how to approach the pass if you're managing multiple cards or family members.   You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: travelmomsquad.com/145   Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: travelmomsquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/   The Travel Mom Squad is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@travelmomsquad   Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/travelmomsquad

We're diving into an epic Disney Resort showdown as two fan-favorite moderates go head-to-head: Caribbean Beach Resort vs. Coronado Springs Resort. It's a battle of beaches and bridges, towers and tropical villages, as we break down each resort across seven key categories to help you decide which one is right for your next Walt Disney World stay.First, we introduce both contenders. Caribbean Beach — Disney's very first moderate resort — brings that bright, beachy island energy, complete with a Skyliner hub, colorful villages, and family-friendly vibes. Meanwhile, Coronado Springs enters the ring with Spanish and Southwest-inspired architecture, top-notch dining, and the sleek, deluxe-style Gran Destino Tower, offering business-class comfort without the deluxe price tag.We go round by round through theming, rooms, dining, transportation, recreation, value, and even listener input, using your votes to help crown a winner. From rooftop tapas at Toledo to Sebastian's Bistro's coastal charm, and from the Dig Site pool to the Fuentes del Morro splash zone, both resorts bring serious perks to the table.So, which moderate resort comes out on top? Tune in as we weigh the magic, the convenience, and the cost to settle the debate once and for all.

…in this episode of VISITORS. Friend-of-the-pod Jeremiah Horstman has dedicated himself to exploring the unforgiving lands around Sedona, Arizona. Through relentless field research, he has become one of the foremost experts on the famous Bradshaw Ranch, renowned for its alleged weirdness of every conceivable category. Jeremiah has recently expanded his focus to exposing covert Deep Underground Military Bases, or DUMBs, secreted beneath the red rocks of the Arizona desert, and the machinations of the military-industrial complex that created them. Appearances with Ross Coulthart and on History's Beyond Skinwalker Ranch have introduced this inveterate researcher, historian, explorer, and adventurer to the world. Whether you're into high strangeness, conspiracy, or just stories of wild, beautiful, and lonely places, this episode has you covered.   

Ethiopia opens Africa's largest hydroelectric dam on the Blue Nile river deepening a rift with Egypt and Sudan.Authorities in the US have arrested two suspected leaders of the Cameroon separatists' military wing. We find out more about the charges against the two men, and why Cameroon has been blighted by a conflict between armed separatists and government forces in the country's mainly anglophone North West and South West regions. And following the canonisation of London-born teenager Carlo Acutis in a ceremony presided over by Pope Leo in Vatican City, what is the process of becoming a saint?Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Mark Wilberforce, Sunita Nahar and Yvette Twagiramariya in London. Makouchi Okafor in Lagos and Jewel Kiriungi in Nairobi Senior Producer: Patricia Whitehorne Technical Producer: Nick Randell Editors: Maryam Abdalla, Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Ethiopia opens Africa's largest hydroelectric dam on the Blue Nile river deepening a rift with Egypt and Sudan.Authorities in the US have arrested two suspected leaders of the Cameroon separatists' military wing. We find out more about the charges against the two men, and why Cameroon has been blighted by a conflict between armed separatists and government forces in the country's mainly anglophone North West and South West regions. And following the canonisation of London-born teenager Carlo Acutis in a ceremony presided over by Pope Leo in Vatican City, what is the process of becoming a saint?Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Mark Wilberforce, Sunita Nahar and Yvette Twagiramariya in London. Makouchi Okafor in Lagos and Jewel Kiriungi in Nairobi Senior Producer: Patricia Whitehorne Technical Producer: Nick Randell Editors: Maryam Abdalla, Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Institutional CRE investing: A market run by allocation math – and uncertainty My podcast/YouTube guest today is Greg MacKinnon, Director of Research at the Pension Real Estate Association (PREA). PREA represents the institutional real estate community - think pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, endowments, and other fiduciaries managing hundreds of billions on behalf of millions of beneficiaries. These are the investors who typically allocate to real estate as part of their overall investment portfolios and who set the tone for how capital flows through the entire real estate market.   Greg explains how while institutional real estate remains a roughly 10% sleeve in diversified institutional portfolios, the number matters less than the mechanics behind it. When equities rally and private values fall, the real estate slice shrinks—creating a theoretical bid to “rebalance” back to target. In practice, that bid has been clogged by a fund-recycling problem: closed-end vehicles haven't been returning capital as quickly because exits have slowed, which leaves investors waiting for distributions before recommitting. Until that dam breaks more broadly, new capital formation into private real estate remains inconsistent across strategies and managers.   Office: price discovery by compulsion Institutional portfolios built in a world where office was a core holding are still working through the repricing. Unlevered office values are down on the order of ~40% from pre-COVID peaks nationally; with leverage, many positions are effectively wiped out, explaining why owners resist selling and why trades are scarce. That stasis is ending as lenders tire of “extend and pretend,” loan maturities arrive, and forced decisions accelerate. The practical question for CIOs isn't simply “hold or sell” but how fast to harvest, return, and re-underwrite risk elsewhere. Expect more office volume but much of it distress-driven rather than conviction buying.   The rate cut mirage: CRE runs on growth and the 10-year Market chatter obsesses over the next Fed move. Institutional capital takes a broader view. The cost of capital that matters for underwriting – term debt, cap-rate anchoring, discount rates – is tethered more to the 10-year Treasury than the overnight Fed funds rate. A policy cut can coexist with a higher 10-year if inflation risk re-prices, blunting any “cuts are bullish” narrative. More importantly: CRE performance tracks the real economy's breadth and durability. Historically, rising interest rates often coincide with strong growth and healthy real estate. Falling rates tend to arrive with deceleration, which is why “cuts” are not automatically good news for NOI or values. Underwrite your forward cash flows, not the headline.   Policy risk is now an underwriting line item Global capital has long treated the U.S. as the default safe harbor. That advantage compresses when macro policy feels unpredictable – tariffs one week, reversals the next, and public debate over central-bank independence. Some non-U.S. allocators have simply chosen not to live with the noise premium, shifting incremental dollars to Europe. Domestic institutions aren't exiting the U.S., but the signal is clear: political-economy volatility now shows up as a higher hurdle rate, more conditional investment committee approvals, and a stronger preference for managers who can navigate policy in both research and structuring.   Where the money is actually going Facing actuarial return targets and a cloudy macro, institutions are tilting toward “where alpha lives now”: Digital and specialized industrial: data centers; cold storage; and industrial outdoor storage (IOS) – think secured yards for heavy equipment – where supply is constrained and tenant demand is need-based. Housing adjacencies: single-family rental, manufactured housing, student housing, and seniors housing, plus targeted affordable strategies that can layer policy incentives with operating expertise. Selective core logistics and resilient multifamily: still investable but crowded; institutions need an edge in submarket selection, cost basis, or operations to meet return hurdles. Themes in common: operational complexity that deters industry tourists, local expertise that differentiates underwriting, and cash flows less correlated to the office cycle.   The portfolio is changing: from “real estate” to “real assets” Many large investors are reorganizing how they bucket risk. Instead of a hard 10% “real estate” sleeve, they're adopting either a broader real assets mandate (real estate + infrastructure + sometimes commodities) or a private markets sleeve (real estate + private credit + private equity). The goal is flexibility: tilt to where relative value is best without tripping governance wires each time. This structural shift makes it easier for a head of Real Assets to move dollars from, say, mid-risk equity in apartments to long-duration infrastructure when spreads and growth argue for it, and to rotate back when underwriting improves. It's a quiet change with large implications for which managers get funded and when.   “Institutional quality” is a culture, not a class of building Too many sponsors use “institutional quality” as shorthand for a gleaming asset. Institutions define quality as process: governance, repeatability, controls, reporting cadence, and audit-ready data, plus the discipline to say “no” when the numbers don't clear the bar. That's why a best-in-class niche specialist (e.g., Southwest self-storage or cold-chain) can attract blue-chip LPs without owning a single skyline trophy. Conversely, a sponsor with a glossy deck but ad-hoc reporting will struggle to cross the institutional threshold even in “prime” locations.   What to do now (operators and allocators) Own the 10-year, not the headline. Build your assumptions around the 10-year Treasury and the yield curve, not the Fed's short-term rate projections. Stress cash flows under slower growth. Lean into complex operations. Data centers, IOS, cold storage, seniors housing, where capability barriers protect yield. Be distribution-aware. If you're raising from institutions, understand their recycling constraints; design pacing and structures that fit their liquidity reality. Institutionalize the back office. Reporting, controls, and data pipelines are capital-raising assets. Treat them as such. Bottom line: allocations still want to be filled, but the bar is higher and the path is narrower. Those who combine operating edge with institutional process will take disproportionate share when the dam finally breaks.   n.b. Greg and I take a detailed look at what ‘institutional' real estate really means; how it's defined, structured, and operates. It's worth tuning in so you can separate fact from fiction the next time you see the term in a pitch deck.   *** In this series, I cut through the noise to examine how shifting macroeconomic forces and rising geopolitical risk are reshaping real estate investing.   With insights from economists, academics, and seasoned professionals, this show helps investors respond to market uncertainty with clarity, discipline, and a focus on downside protection.    Subscribe to my free newsletter for timely updates, insights, and tools to help you navigate today's volatile real estate landscape. You'll get: Straight talk on what happens when confidence meets correction - no hype, no spin, no fluff. Real implications of macro trends for investors and sponsors with actionable guidance. Insights from real estate professionals who've been through it all before. Visit GowerCrowd.com/subscribe Email: adam@gowercrowd.com Call: 213-761-1000

Is this the end of travel rewards as we know it?

Today I will be joined by my beautiful wife, Janay Arenas. We will be discussing the Pima County Small Business Commission. Nominations are now open for the small business awards. Then we will be talking with Amanda Reitzell, owner of All In Balance Bookkeeping. We'll talk about some of the do's and don'ts to keep your business books clean and understandable.

Want to work with us? Reach out! inquiries at milestomemories dot com Frontier status match (MTM affiliate link) - https://www.frontierstatusmatch.com/?fpr=xf83a Episode Description This week Southwest announced a positive change for once! WiFi has been getting cheaper on planes over the years, but most still charge. That has been changing and Southwest will finally bring free internet to their planes. When will this happen and how long will it be before every airline offers free internet in the skies?   In other news Hyatt has a couple of cool new promos, but one of them has a new twist. Should we be weary of travel apps and all of the data tracking or is that just life in 2025? We also discuss: Mario Kart in real life, why AA is flying 20 empty transatlantic legs and how you can score an easy $200 bonus offer from our partner Melio.   Episode Guide 0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 2:05 More free WiFi on planes - Southwest drops new perk 6:37 Why AA is flying 20 empty transatlantic legs 10:50 New Hyatt promos - with a troubling twist? 13:23 Why companies are trying to force us into using their apps 17:27 The big consumer data problem in 2025 21:23 Battle of Chase Sapphires - A surprising result? 28:42 Mario Kart in real life! Links Melio Offer (affiliate link) - https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam  Mario Kart - https://www.roadandtrack.com/news/a64188246/vietnam-downhill-karting-spot-mario-kart-dreams/ Southwest WiFi - https://milestomemories.com/southwest-rapid-rewards-members-will-get-free-wi-fi/ AA empty flights - https://onemileatatime.com/news/american-flying-empty-airbus-a321neo-across-atlantic/ Hyatt new property - https://travel-on-points.com/hyatt-new-hotel-promo/ Hyatt app promo - https://travel-on-points.com/hyatt-regency-promo/ CSR vs CSP - https://travel-on-points.com/your-next-card-csp-or-csr/ Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at podcast@milestomemories.com.  You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, or via RSS. Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!

In this week's episode, Openers, we are talking about everything from “Southwest airlines to require larger passengers to buy two seats starting 1/27/26 - standard, preferred and extra leg room)” to “Community Grace”. If you want us to give you some advice, email us: openrelationshippodcast@gmail.com Host: Rodney, Solomon, Wally, Meech, and Randall What our Openers can expect from us: OPEN: A to Z as it pertains to the LGBTQ community and beyond, ultimately creating a safe space for conversation, impact, healing, and learning. Our Segments: The Opening, Hot Topics with Meech, Open Up, 5 Tips to Get Your Life, Menge A Trios, Left on Read, & Close Out Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpaklo2ft-q2lLDyyIHnFKg/join Patreon: https://patreon.com/openrelationshippodcast?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=join_link For Sponsorship: openrelationshippodcast@gmail.com For Interviews/Guests: openrelationshippodcast@gmail.com Advice: openrelationshippodcast@gmail.com Apple TV Subscribe Link: https://apple.co/3Np6VjX Apple Music Subscribe Link: https://apple.co/3Ps7Frn Signup for your newsletter: https://us1.list-manage.com/survey?u=06fbaa82133f8c308e7bc85fe&id=993aa00e9a&attribution=false Donate to the podcast: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=PHJ8ECDXWD4EA Studio: Mega Atlanta Studios Follow Us! @openrelationshippodcast @thatboysirwash @solomonestretch @bmyrandall @wallythegodfather @1king_meech #OpenRelationshipPodcast #BlackGayATL #QueerInAtlanta #ATLGayScene #AtlantaPodcast #BlackQueerExcellence #GayATL #SouthernQueers #ATLQueerLife #UrbanGay #BlackAndGay #ATLQueerCulture #AtlantaLGBTQ #BlackGayPodcast #QueerAtlanta #HotlantaGays #QueerCulture #BlackGayAndProud #BlackCreators #GayYouTubers #LGBTQCommunity

Clinton Griffiths hosts AgDay: Drought is nothing new in the Southwest. We show you how cattle ranchers are having to make do. Plus, we an in-depth look at the current drought conditions and what we could see this coming fall. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we are exploring the incredible Native American sites you can visit through the National Park Service.  From massive cliff dwellings to life-sized petroglyphs, we're diving into some of our favorite places to experience the deep history and cultural richness of the ancestral Puebloan people and beyond. Whether you've visited before or are looking to expand your bucket list, this episode is packed with inspiration to help you connect with these sacred, awe-inspiring sites across the Southwest. Join us as we discuss… The remote Canyonlands trail that leads to some of the largest, most mysterious rock art in North America A cliffside city frozen in time, and the tours that take you right into it The hidden New Mexico site where ladders lead to ancient carved homes in the cliffs The massive ruins of a forgotten cultural hub that rival anything else in the Southwest We hope you enjoyed exploring some of the most meaningful Native American sites the National Park Service helps protect. These places are truly amazing, and we hope you get to get out there and explore yourself!  Today's task: If you've been to any of these places or have one to recommend, we'd love to hear from you! Share your experiences over on our share them on the Dirt In My Shoes Facebook or Instagram pages, and let's build a community list of must-see stops!  Are you looking for more Native American cultural sites protected by the National Park Service? Check out their comprehensive list here! For a full summary of this episode, links to things we mentioned, and free resources and deals to get your trip-planning started, check out the full show notes. Getting ready for a trip to Mesa Verde, Canyonlands, or another national park? Check out our free resources, including more podcast episodes, a master reservation list, a national park checklist, and a trip packing list to keep your trip planning stress-free! Mesa Verde Podcast Episodes Canyonlands Free Resources  Master Reservation List National Park Checklist National Park Trip Packing List

1.When Politicians Panicked: The New Corona Virus, Expert Opinion, and a Tragic Lapse of Reason by John Tamney, argues that the severe economic contraction experienced in 2020 was primarily a consequence of politicians' panicked reactions and forced lockdowns, rather than the inherent lethality of the COVID-19 virus itself. Tamney highlights Governor Cuomo's March 20, 2020, decision to shut down New York, portraying the economy as a "valve" that could be arbitrarily opened and closed, which led to an immediate and severe contraction that persisted long after. The book contends that financial markets had already accounted for the virus's severity based on early signals from China, where US companies like Apple, GM, Nike, and Starbucks maintained strong performance, indicating the virus was not indiscriminately lethal. The real market panic, leading to a "very quick correction," occurred when politicians demonstrated their ability to "wreck an economy" through drastic actions like shutting down events such as South by Southwest in Texas. This response is contrasted with the 1968 Hong Kong flu pandemic, which caused 100,000 American deaths (equivalent to 250,000 today) but saw no significant market reaction or political lockdowns, primarily because technology at the time made such widespread closures impractical without risking "mass riots". Tamney criticizes the government's subsequent interventions, such as the CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), for being akin to "central planning" imposed on top of political decrees. He argues these programs indiscriminately propped up entities like private schools, Harvard, and the Los Angeles Lakers, instead of allowing market forces to determine which businesses would adapt or fail. This "nationalization of investment" through government checks and loans was deemed anti-investment and merely delayed recovery by diverting capital from those most capable of investing to those most likely to consume, which does not drive economic growth. The author advocates for economic growth and individual freedom as the most effective responses to health threats. He points to examples like the voluntary disappearance of hand sanitizer and toilet paper before official shutdowns, and an individual living in a tent in Florida to protect his family despite no mandates, demonstrating that people don't need laws to avoid illness. Tamney suggests that a constitutional "right to contract" and return to work should protect individuals from such mandates. He concludes that the resilience shown by private enterprise, such as Pfizer developing a vaccine without "Operation Warp Speed" money, underscores that a healthy economy fostered by freedom is the best defense against disease. The core lesson, he asserts, is "never again take away people's freedom". 1919 AUSTRALIA QUARENTINE.

2. When Politicians Panicked: The New Corona Virus, Expert Opinion, and a Tragic Lapse of Reason by John Tamney, argues that the severe economic contraction experienced in 2020 was primarily a consequence of politicians' panicked reactions and forced lockdowns, rather than the inherent lethality of the COVID-19 virus itself. Tamney highlights Governor Cuomo's March 20, 2020, decision to shut down New York, portraying the economy as a "valve" that could be arbitrarily opened and closed, which led to an immediate and severe contraction that persisted long after. The book contends that financial markets had already accounted for the virus's severity based on early signals from China, where US companies like Apple, GM, Nike, and Starbucks maintained strong performance, indicating the virus was not indiscriminately lethal. The real market panic, leading to a "very quick correction," occurred when politicians demonstrated their ability to "wreck an economy" through drastic actions like shutting down events such as South by Southwest in Texas. This response is contrasted with the 1968 Hong Kong flu pandemic, which caused 100,000 American deaths (equivalent to 250,000 today) but saw no significant market reaction or political lockdowns, primarily because technology at the time made such widespread closures impractical without risking "mass riots". Tamney criticizes the government's subsequent interventions, such as the CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), for being akin to "central planning" imposed on top of political decrees. He argues these programs indiscriminately propped up entities like private schools, Harvard, and the Los Angeles Lakers, instead of allowing market forces to determine which businesses would adapt or fail. This "nationalization of investment" through government checks and loans was deemed anti-investment and merely delayed recovery by diverting capital from those most capable of investing to those most likely to consume, which does not drive economic growth. The author advocates for economic growth and individual freedom as the most effective responses to health threats. He points to examples like the voluntary disappearance of hand sanitizer and toilet paper before official shutdowns, and an individual living in a tent in Florida to protect his family despite no mandates, demonstrating that people don't need laws to avoid illness. Tamney suggests that a constitutional "right to contract" and return to work should protect individuals from such mandates. He concludes that the resilience shown by private enterprise, such as Pfizer developing a vaccine without "Operation Warp Speed" money, underscores that a healthy economy fostered by freedom is the best defense against disease. The core lesson, he asserts, is "never again take away people's freedom". 1918 SEATTLE

3. When Politicians Panicked: The New Corona Virus, Expert Opinion, and a Tragic Lapse of Reason by John Tamney, argues that the severe economic contraction experienced in 2020 was primarily a consequence of politicians' panicked reactions and forced lockdowns, rather than the inherent lethality of the COVID-19 virus itself. Tamney highlights Governor Cuomo's March 20, 2020, decision to shut down New York, portraying the economy as a "valve" that could be arbitrarily opened and closed, which led to an immediate and severe contraction that persisted long after. The book contends that financial markets had already accounted for the virus's severity based on early signals from China, where US companies like Apple, GM, Nike, and Starbucks maintained strong performance, indicating the virus was not indiscriminately lethal. The real market panic, leading to a "very quick correction," occurred when politicians demonstrated their ability to "wreck an economy" through drastic actions like shutting down events such as South by Southwest in Texas. This response is contrasted with the 1968 Hong Kong flu pandemic, which caused 100,000 American deaths (equivalent to 250,000 today) but saw no significant market reaction or political lockdowns, primarily because technology at the time made such widespread closures impractical without risking "mass riots". Tamney criticizes the government's subsequent interventions, such as the CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), for being akin to "central planning" imposed on top of political decrees. He argues these programs indiscriminately propped up entities like private schools, Harvard, and the Los Angeles Lakers, instead of allowing market forces to determine which businesses would adapt or fail. This "nationalization of investment" through government checks and loans was deemed anti-investment and merely delayed recovery by diverting capital from those most capable of investing to those most likely to consume, which does not drive economic growth. The author advocates for economic growth and individual freedom as the most effective responses to health threats. He points to examples like the voluntary disappearance of hand sanitizer and toilet paper before official shutdowns, and an individual living in a tent in Florida to protect his family despite no mandates, demonstrating that people don't need laws to avoid illness. Tamney suggests that a constitutional "right to contract" and return to work should protect individuals from such mandates. He concludes that the resilience shown by private enterprise, such as Pfizer developing a vaccine without "Operation Warp Speed" money, underscores that a healthy economy fostered by freedom is the best defense against disease. The core lesson, he asserts, is "never again take away people's freedom". 1919 DC.

4. When Politicians Panicked: The New Corona Virus, Expert Opinion, and a Tragic Lapse of Reason by John Tamney, argues that the severe economic contraction experienced in 2020 was primarily a consequence of politicians' panicked reactions and forced lockdowns, rather than the inherent lethality of the COVID-19 virus itself. Tamney highlights Governor Cuomo's March 20, 2020, decision to shut down New York, portraying the economy as a "valve" that could be arbitrarily opened and closed, which led to an immediate and severe contraction that persisted long after. The book contends that financial markets had already accounted for the virus's severity based on early signals from China, where US companies like Apple, GM, Nike, and Starbucks maintained strong performance, indicating the virus was not indiscriminately lethal. The real market panic, leading to a "very quick correction," occurred when politicians demonstrated their ability to "wreck an economy" through drastic actions like shutting down events such as South by Southwest in Texas. This response is contrasted with the 1968 Hong Kong flu pandemic, which caused 100,000 American deaths (equivalent to 250,000 today) but saw no significant market reaction or political lockdowns, primarily because technology at the time made such widespread closures impractical without risking "mass riots". Tamney criticizes the government's subsequent interventions, such as the CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), for being akin to "central planning" imposed on top of political decrees. He argues these programs indiscriminately propped up entities like private schools, Harvard, and the Los Angeles Lakers, instead of allowing market forces to determine which businesses would adapt or fail. This "nationalization of investment" through government checks and loans was deemed anti-investment and merely delayed recovery by diverting capital from those most capable of investing to those most likely to consume, which does not drive economic growth. The author advocates for economic growth and individual freedom as the most effective responses to health threats. He points to examples like the voluntary disappearance of hand sanitizer and toilet paper before official shutdowns, and an individual living in a tent in Florida to protect his family despite no mandates, demonstrating that people don't need laws to avoid illness. Tamney suggests that a constitutional "right to contract" and return to work should protect individuals from such mandates. He concludes that the resilience shown by private enterprise, such as Pfizer developing a vaccine without "Operation Warp Speed" money, underscores that a healthy economy fostered by freedom is the best defense against disease. The core lesson, he asserts, is "never again take away people's freedom". 1919 TEXAS