Podcasts about strategic initiatives

Alan Rozenshtein, Senior Editor at Lawfare, speaks with Brett Goldstein, Special Advisor to the Chancellor on National Security and Strategic Initiatives at Vanderbilt University; Brett Benson, Associate Professor of Political Science at Vanderbilt University; and Renée DiResta, Lawfare Contributing Editor and Associate Research Professor at Georgetown University's McCourt School of Public Policy.The conversation covers the evolution of influence operations from crude Russian troll farms to sophisticated AI systems using large language models; the discovery of GoLaxy documents revealing a "Smart Propaganda System" that collects millions of data points daily, builds psychological profiles, and generates resilient personas; operations targeting Hong Kong's 2020 protests and Taiwan's 2024 election; the fundamental challenges of measuring effectiveness; GoLaxy's ties to Chinese intelligence agencies; why detection has become harder as platform integrity teams have been rolled back and multi-stakeholder collaboration has broken down; and whether the United States can get ahead of this threat or will continue the reactive pattern that has characterized cybersecurity for decades.Mentioned in this episode:"The Era of A.I. Propaganda Has Arrived, and America Must Act,” by Brett J. Goldstein and Brett V. Benson (New York Times, August 5, 2025)"China Turns to A.I. in Information Warfare" by Julian E. Barnes (New York Times, August 6, 2025)"The GoLaxy Papers: Inside China's AI Persona Army,” by Dina Temple-Raston and Erika Gajda (The Record, September 19, 2025)"The supply of disinformation will soon be infinite,” by Renée DiResta (The Atlantic, September 2020)Find Scaling Laws on the Lawfare website, and subscribe to never miss an episode.To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zero Trust isn't just about defense - it's about unlocking new capabilities across even the most legacy-heavy federal systems. When agencies move to a Zero Trust Architecture, the benefits go far beyond stronger cybersecurity. Integrating decades-old systems into a Zero Trust framework can actually centralize data, create consistency, and open new paths to modernization. This week on Feds At the Edge, Sean Phuphanich, Principal Technologist at AWS, explains how synthetic data can safely demonstrate cloud scalability in non-production environments, while Richard Breakiron, Senior Director, Strategic Initiatives, Americas Public Sector, Commvault, offers candid insight into why no single vendor has all the answers. His advice? Collaborate across agencies to tap into shared experience and proven solutions. Tune in on your favorite podcast today as we explore how Zero Trust can be both a security strategy and a powerful engine for modernization across government. Plus, learn about a free AWS assessment tool that can help your agency gauge its Zero Trust maturity and chart a clear path forward.

Join Special Guest Host Louie Green and Creative Artist Attorney Mel Flowers LIVE IN STUDIO WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 15TH 10PM. Melvin Flowers has been a dedicated leader and advocate for pro bono work throughout his legal career, and across varied cases and communities. Formerly Accenture's Global Legal Lead for Strategic Initiatives as part of the Global Data Privacy Legal Team. In his new practice, Attorney Flowers has a dedicated practice to protect the rights of artists and creatives from the START OF THEIR CAREERS. Wednesday night learn more about royalties, copyrights and trademarks and how The Flowers Law Group LLC can help!!Support the showwww.VintageHouseShow.comPreserving and Celebrating the History of House Music

In this episode, Bryan Barrett sits down with Lisa Trail, Director of Communications and Strategic Initiatives for Murfreesboro City Schools, to talk about two exciting upcomi

In this episode of Transformative Principal, Brandon Cardet-Hernandez shares his journey from being a principal to advising the NYC Mayor, and now serving as President of Mrs. Wordsmith, a company dedicated to improving children's literacy through innovative tools like books and video games. Brandon dives into the urgent need for solutions in education, particularly addressing the missed "dosage" in phonemic awareness, phonics, and vocabulary instruction that many students experience. He explores the role of video games in education, emphasizing that while games can't replace teachers, they can enhance the learning process through engaging, spaced-repetition techniques, like the popular game Word Tag.Brandon discusses how joy and mastery of language can transform a student's understanding and emotional connection to words. He also highlights the challenges many students face in developing strong reading skills, especially in middle and high school, and how increasing practice time is essential.Leaving the principalship to do advising to NYC Mayor. Solutions that I was hungry for. President of Mrs. WordsmithEfficacy of video gamesSub-literateGames don't replace teachers and instructionMissed dosage that kids need: phonemic awareness and phonics & vocabularyHow much time they get practicing. How do we give teachers the right data?Word tag - spaced repetition.Joy of words, master of phrasing. How many kids don't have the command of the language?Happiness makes more sense when you have word associations with it. Increase dosage of reading skills. How challenging it is to learn reading in middle and high school.How to be a transformative principal? Be ok that their experience looks different than ours: take a beat, pause, and play a video game.About Brandon Cardet-HernandezBrandon Cardet-Hernandez is the President of Mrs Wordsmith, an innovative children's education media company that creates award-winning books, card games, and video games to help radically improve literacy outcomes for kids. A recognized leader and changemaker, Brandon has spent his career working to reimagine the systems, structures, and tools that accelerate opportunity and close achievement gaps. Brandon previously served as the Senior Education Advisor to former New York City Mayor Bill DeBlasio and as the Director of Strategic Initiatives for the NYC Department of Education. A former special education teacher, Brandon has sat at the helm of two high schools, leading both institutions through transformational change. Brandon was appointed to the Boston School Board in 2022 by Mayor Michelle Wu and the Massachusetts Council for Latino Empowerment in 2023 by Governor Maura Healy. He serves on the board of EdVestors. His work has garnered national recognition, featured in publications like The Atlantic, People en Espanol, Essence Magazine, EdWeek, Commonwealth Magazine, and the Netflix documentary, “Teach Us All.” LinkedLeaders: You need support. Get just-in-time mentoring at LinkedLeaders.comWe're thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments

October 16, 2025 ~ Adam Goldstein, vice president for Strategic Initiatives at FIRE, joins Lloyd and Jamie to discuss news organizations declining to sign a new Pentagon access policy for journalists, warning the potential for less comprehensive coverage. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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HSPA Chapter Resource Roundup With more than 50 chapters across the country and around the world, HSPA's affiliated chapter system is available as a local resource to support our Sterile Processing (SP) professionals, wherever they may be. Active participation in a regional chapter offers relationship building and networking, professional development, vendor interaction and inspiration. But where can our chapters and those who run them find support? In episode 136, host Casey Czarnowski speaks with Arlene Bush, HSPA President and SPD Educator for Lee Health, and Damien Berg, HSPA's VP of Strategic Initiatives, about the resources available to support our chapters. Our guests give a chapter status update and discuss the value of the Chapter Resource Guide and HSPA Network. Their conversation includes advice on identifying relevant topics, promoting educational events, and collaborating with industry partners as well as the importance of promptly applying for continuing education (CE) approval. If you aren't connected with a chapter, visit HSPA Chapters to find one near you. Arlene Bush SPD Educator Lee Health Arlene Bush, CRCST, CIS, CHL, CER, DSMD, CRMST, serves as HSPA President as well as the SPD Educator for Lee Health and Communications Director for the Florida Intercoastal Reprocessing Educators (FIRE) chapter. As a seasoned SP leader and subject matter expert, she shares her extensive knowledge through published articles, speeches and the training of future SP professionals. Damien Berg VP of Strategic Initiatives HSPA Damien Berg, BA, BS, CRCST, AAMIF, serves as HSPA's Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and is an HSPA Past-President (2018–2019). Additionally, he works closely with regulatory bodies and standards-making groups, such as the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) and the International Standards Organization (ISO). Berg serves on the Executive Committee for the World Federation For Hospital Sterilisation Sciences (WFHSS). Earn CE Now

Across the south, generations of Black farmers and business owners have faced losing not just their land, but their livelihoods - pushed out by discriminatory lending, land theft, and the consolidation of power. Yet from that struggle has grown something powerful: a movement rooted in cooperation, where farmers pool their resources, share their knowledge, and build wealth together instead of competing for survival.That spirit of collective power is what drives the Federation of Southern Cooperatives, where Terence Courtney works to support Black-owned farms and rural businesses through education, advocacy, and cooperative enterprise. The Federation's model flips the extractive script of traditional capitalism, proving that shared ownership and community investment are sound economic strategies.In this episode, we dive into: The long history of Black cooperative movements in the South. How cooperative models help farmers build wealth and autonomy in the face of systemic discrimination. Why collective economics is key to sustaining rural communities. The Federation's approach to balancing profitability with community values. How policy and history continue to shape access to land and opportunity. What true self-determination looks like in agriculture.More about Terence and the Federation of Southern Cooperatives:Terence Courtney began organizing with the Service Employees International Union to improve economic conditions for working people. He led union campaigns and later became the union's statewide representative in Georgia. He's co-founded and led coalitions such as Atlanta Jobs with Justice and a community group focused on the public sector called the Atlanta Public Sector Alliance.Expanding from a city to a regional focus, Terence organized US born and foreign born (immigrants) of African descent to educate and raise consciousness about immigrant rights and mass incarceration from a Black Diasporic perspective for the Black Alliance for Just Immigration. He co-developed the Organization for Human Rights and Democracy and served as the Director of Organizing overseeing campaigns against school privatization, as well as its spin off project: Cooperative Atlanta. Currently Terence serves as the Director of Cooperative Development & Strategic Initiatives for theFFederation of Southern CooperativesAgrarian Futures is produced by Alexandre Miller, who also wrote our theme song. This episode was edited by Drew O'Doherty.

This podcast features Kim and Joe Koenig, who have been married for more than 30 years and have three sons and two grandchildren. Joe is president of World Wide Technology in St. Louis. He joined the company in 1993 when it was a startup. Today the company is a global technology solutions provider with more than $20 billion in revenue. Kim holds a Masters in Public Administration and after a career in Community Development and serving as CEO of their home, she now serves as Director of Strategic Initiatives of St. Louis' Jesuit High School, De Smet.Along with having successful careers, a strong marriage and raising a family, they have battled possibly their biggest challenge of all: Joe's cancer diagnosis. He was diagnosed with head and neck cancer in 2017 and given a 50 percent chance to live beyond five years.Key points:This is a truly inspirational story you won't want to miss.Joe and Kim took this adversity, overcame it, and are transforming it into good. Not only did they beat the cancer, but they are helping others who are walking a similar path. Joe and Kim now share their story and are living testimony proof that resilience, perseverance and positivity serve as a backbone for building a foundation for going toe-to-toe with serious health challenges and overcoming adversity in general. SeaCaptainCoaching.comInstagram linkFB linkConnect with PhilLinkedInConnect with Joe KoenigLinkedInConnect with Kim KoenigLinkedInNow Available!The Sea Captain Way for Financial AdvisorsThe Voyage: The Adventure of Your Lifetime

Our guest on this week's episode is Amanda Hedberg, vice president of Strategic Initiatives at Aspire, a Chicago non-profit organization that works to place people with disabilities into the labor market. October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. This yearly event began in 1945 and is now commemorating 80 years of acknowledging the good work that people with mental and physical disabilities bring to their jobs, including work within our supply chains. Hedberg shares how t Aspire trains people with disabilities find meaningful work, including employment in warehouses. Our DC Velocity editorial staff spent the week at CSCMP EDGE conference in National Harbor, Maryland, near the nation's capital. On today's podcast we will talk about what we learned there:Ben shares about a session on the market for industrial real estate, which includes warehouses and fulfillment centers. According to the speakers, the U.S. right now has more unused logistics space available for rent in the industrial real estate market than at any time in U.S. history. We explained how the market got to that point and what is being done to better utilize the abundant space.Ben also shares about another session on the rise of the “synthetic workforce,” which is a term for increasing applications in artificial intelligence, and specifically agentic AI. Speakers stressed that the Synthetic Workforce is not just on the horizon but is already here. Victoria shares about a session presented by Per Kristian Hong, a global lead at management consulting firm Kearney. His talk was titled “Harnessing Uncertainty: Global Supply Chains in an Era of Geopolitical Disruption.” His central message was that these turbulent times we're experiencing are the norm and that supply chain leaders need to recalibrate and move from forecasting to foresight.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A new series is now available on Top Threats to our Supply Chains. It covers topics including Geopolitical Risks, Economic Instability, Cybersecurity Risks, Threats to energy and electric grids; Supplier Risks, and Transportation Disruptions  Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN)Report: Tariffs reshape sourcingGen-Z consumers drive change in e-commerce patternsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comThis podcast episode is sponsored by: Duravant Integrated SolutionsOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Wonder is not a luxury; it is essential for raising curious, resilient, and joyful children. In this episode, Terry Dubow, Director of Communications and Strategic Initiatives at Marin Montessori School, talks with Tree Sturman, Director of the Junior High, about how modern childhood can crowd out wonder and how Montessori education creates space for children to stay curious and connected.Key TakeawaysHow modern childhood squeezes out wonderWhy Montessori intentionally protects curiosityThe connection between wonder, resilience, and learningPractical ways parents can nurture wonder at homeWhy protecting wonder matters in an anxious worldAbout Tree SturmanTree has spent his career in passionate pursuit of a better world. After a decade leading environmental nonprofits, he co-founded Compass Montessori Junior High in Michigan and guided its growth for 11 years. A lifelong learner with a gift for connecting with adolescents, Tree brings deep experience, curiosity, and a love of hands-on learning to his work at Marin Montessori School.

In this first episode of series five, our Crossing Channels podcast host Richard Westcott welcomes three affiliated experts to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming higher education.Jonathan Grant (Bennett School of Public Policy), and Jean-François Bonnefon and François Poinas (Toulouse School of Economics (TSE) & the Institute for Advanced Study in Toulouse (IAST)) share their different perspectives rooted in public policy, psychology, and economics.They examine how AI is reshaping the way universities teach, conduct research, and connect with government, business, and civil society. They look into how generative tools are changing learning and assessment, how students and academics can build trust in AI systems, and what the rise of these technologies means for the skills and values that universities aim to foster.Listen to this episode on your preferred podcast platformSeason 5 Episode 1 transcriptTo find out more about the work of the Bennett School of Public Policy and IAST visit our websites: https://www.bennettschool.cam.ac.uk/ and https://www.iast.fr/.Follow us on Linkedin and BlueskyWith thanks to:Audio production by Alice WhaleyAssociate production by Burcu Sevde Selvi, Bennett School of Public PolicyVisuals by Tiffany Naylor and Pauline Alves, IAST, TSEMore information about our host and guests:Podcast hostRichard Westcott is an award-winning journalist who spent 27 years at the BBC as a correspondent/producer/presenter covering global stories for the flagship Six and Ten o'clock TV news as well as the Today programme. Last year, Richard left the corporation and is now the Communications Director for Cambridge University Health Partners and the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, both organisations that are working to support life sciences and healthcare across the city.Podcast guestsJean-François Bonnefon, is Director of the Social and Behavioural Sciences Department at Toulouse School of Economics (TSE) and the Institute of Advanced Studies in Toulouse (IAST). Jean-François is a CNRS research director, affiliated with TSE and IAST, and a cognitive psychologist whose work spans computer science, psychology, and economics. He is renowned for his expertise in moral preferences and decision-making, and is particularly recognised for his contributions to the ethics of advanced artificial intelligence, especially in autonomous driving. Jonathan Grant is an Affiliated Researcher at the Bennett School of Public Policy, and Vice President for Strategic Initiatives at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST).  In his work for KAUST, he leads efforts to enhance the institution's global and national impact through transformative academic programming and strategic partnerships. An expert in health R&D policy, research impact, and the evolving role of universities, Jonathan has worked across Europe, the Middle East, North America, and Australia. François Poinas is Assistant Professor and Dean of Education at Toulouse School of Economics since October 2023. After completing his PhD in Economics at University Lumière Lyon 2, he joined TSE and University Toulouse Capitole in 2010. His research is about applied microeconomics, focusing on labor and education economics. He produces scientific articles on schooling, the dynamics of intra-firm promotions, and migration decisions.

In Part 3 of this Pulse Check series, Scott Cline sits down with Dr. John Haller, former VP of Enrollment Management at the University of Miami and current higher education consultant, to unpack how AI agents are being used across college admissions offices. From streamlining essay reviews to decoding enrollment trends and anticipating student persistence, this episode tackles the promise and pitfalls of using AI in higher ed. If you're a higher ed leader wrestling with how (or whether) to integrate AI into admissions and marketing, this episode offers a refreshingly honest, behind-the-scenes perspective.Guest Name: Dr. John Haller, Special Assistant to the President, Strategic Initiatives at Denison UniversityGuest Social: johnhaller.orgGuest Bio: Dr. John Haller is a higher education consultant and professor.  Most recently, he served as the Special Assistant to the President, Strategic Initiatives at Denison University.  For 10 years John served as the Vice President of Enrollment Management and New Student Strategies at the University of Miami.  During his time at Miami, he led the movement from a largely merit-based to a hybrid merit- and need-based financial aid strategy where 100% of financial need is met.  Also, the institution realized a 30%+ increase in applications and a 50%+ increase in yield.  The institution realized a decrease in student indebtedness ($10,000) and the highest freshman retention (94%) and six-year graduation rates in University history (82%).  Dr. Haller also served as the Associate Provost for Enrollment Management at Saint Joseph's University and had experiences in student success at Drexel University, MBA Admission at Vanderbilt University, and Undergraduate Admission at Denison University.  He is an honors graduate in economics and statistics from the University of Michigan, received master's degrees in business and higher education, and received his Ed.D. in higher education from the University of Pennsylvania.  He can be contacted via his blog at johnhaller.org. - - - -Connect With Our Host:Mallory Willsea https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/https://twitter.com/mallorywillseaAbout The Enrollify Podcast Network:The Higher Ed Pulse is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you'll like other Enrollify shows too!Enrollify is made possible by Element451 — The AI Workforce Platform for Higher Ed. Learn more at element451.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Chamber Chat Podcast, host Brandon Burton speaks with Ed Sealover, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives for the Colorado Chamber of Commerce. They discuss the role of the chamber in advocating for business interests, the launch of the Sum & Substance news site, and the importance of a balanced approach to media coverage in business policy. Ed shares insights on how local chambers can leverage state resources, the need for proactive vision in chamber initiatives, and the future of chambers in business advocacy. Transcript and show notes found at chamberchatpodcast.com/episode349. Please support this podcast by supporting our sponsors. Community Matters, Inc. chamberchatpodcast.com/podcast App My Community appmycommunity.com/chamberchat Resource Development Group rdgfundraising.com Econ Dev Ops econdevops.com Swypit chamberchatpodcast.com/cc  

Join guest host Dr. Mark Lewis, President and CEO of the Purdue Applied Research Institute, at the 2025 Emerging Technologies for Defense Conference. He is joined by Brian Stites, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at MAG Aerospace and Chair of Cyber-Augmented Operations at NDIA. Together, they explore why cyber must be at the forefront of national security discussions and how it can be normalized alongside traditional technologies. To receive updates about the conference please join our mailing list here: https://www.emergingtechnologiesinstitute.org/sign-up http://emergingtechnologiesinstitute.org https://www.facebook.com/EmergingTechETI https://www.linkedin.com/company/ndia-eti-emerging-technologies-institute https://www.twitter.com/EmergingTechETI

As we continue our series on divorce in the church, Martin Cachero from Risen Church joins us to discuss how to pastor congregants going through divorce. He received his B.A. from Cal State San Marcos and his Masters in Theological Studies from Bethel Seminary. He is currently co-vocational serving as co-Pastor at Risen Church and as the Director of Strategic Initiatives with Flourish San Diego. 

Guest: Shawn Villaron, Vice President of Customer and Strategic Initiatives, Office Product Group at Microsoft | Former VP & GM of PowerPoint | Bay Area Site Leader | Executive Sponsor of HOLA   Episode Overview In this episode, we sit down with Shawn Villaron, a 29-year veteran at Microsoft who has helped shape some of the company's most widely used products and strategies. Now serving as Vice President of Customer and Strategic Initiatives in the Office Product Group, Shawn partners with Microsoft's most important customers to better understand their needs around AI, workplace modernization, and productivity—insights that directly shape the future of Microsoft Office. Previously, Shawn was Vice President & General Manager for PowerPoint, where he led teams across multiple platforms—Windows, Mac, Web, iPad, Android, and iOS—reimagining how billions of people create and deliver stories. He also serves as Engineering Site Leader for Microsoft Bay Area, working across commercial, consumer, hardware, and AI platforms, while championing diversity and inclusion as executive sponsor of HOLA (Hispanic & Latinx Organization of Leaders in Action). Shawn brings a rare perspective: spending nearly three decades at a single company, driving innovation from the inside, and now exploring how AI and agents are reshaping the way we work, create, and build businesses. What You'll Learn in This Episode The positives and challenges of building an entire career at one company in the fast-moving tech world. How PowerPoint and Office are being reimagined for the AI storytelling era. Practical ways companies can encourage employees to use AI responsibly and effectively. How leaders can use AI to boost both creativity and productivity within teams. When employees might be using too much AI—or not enough. What it means to become an “AI Agent Boss” and how agents can give startups enterprise-level capabilities. Whether the concept of the one-person unicorn is realistic, and what's still missing. How recent graduates can stand out in an AI-driven job market. The emerging technologies Microsoft's Bay Area teams are most excited about right now. One piece of advice Shawn would give to founders and technologists building the next generation of workplace tools. Key Questions We Discuss What are the upsides and downsides of staying at one company for nearly three decades? How is Microsoft rethinking storytelling with AI in PowerPoint and Office? How can leaders balance productivity and creativity when adopting AI tools? What role will AI Agents play in empowering both startups and enterprises? Are we truly heading toward the era of the one-person unicorn? What advice would you give to graduates entering an AI-powered job market? Which emerging technologies are your Bay Area teams most focused on right now? About Shawn Villaron Shawn Villaron is Vice President of Customer and Strategic Initiatives in the Microsoft Office Product Group, where he drives strategy by working closely with top customers to shape the future of AI and productivity. Previously, he served as Vice President & GM of PowerPoint, guiding the product across every platform and ensuring seamless experiences for millions of users. He also serves as Engineering Site Leader for Microsoft Bay Area and as executive sponsor of HOLA, advancing diversity and inclusion at Microsoft. Resources & Links LinkedIn: Shawn Villaron | LinkedIn Microsoft Bay Area Blog: Microsoft Bay Area Blog Microsoft Work Trend Index: The 2025 Annual Work Trend Index: The Frontier Firm is Born   The views expressed on this podcast are for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial or legal advice. Please consult with a professional for guidance on your specific situation. The opinions shared are my own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Finalis Inc. or Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC.

This is episode 789. Read the complete transcript on the Sales Game Changers Podcast website here. The Sales Game Changers Podcast was recognized by YesWare as the top sales podcast. Read the announcement here. FeedSpot named the Sales Game Changers Podcast at a top 20 Sales Podcast and top 8 Sales Leadership Podcast! Subscribe to the Sales Game Changers Podcast now on Apple Podcasts! Purchase Fred Diamond's best-sellers Love, Hope, Lyme: What Family Members, Partners, and Friends Who Love a Chronic Lyme Survivor Need to Know and Insights for Sales Game Changers now! On today's show, Fred interviewed Mike Cannady, AWS Global Director, Partner Programs and Strategic Initiatives, Public Sector. Watch the video of this podcast on YouTube here. Find Mike on LinkedIn.  MIKE'S TIP: "The most successful sellers I've known in my career really know how to work with partners and use them as a force multiplier. If you're not working with partners, you're limited by your own time only, but if you're working with partners, you get their reach, you get their relationships, and that can be a really powerful thing for you.”

Send us a textDani Black is the CRO at AppWork. This is not her first rodeo in proptech. And the mission at AppWork is bold and in a much needed category. Maintenance. I'm Moshe Crane connect with me on LinkedIn. My day job is the VP of Branding and Strategic Initiatives at Sage Ventures. Check out my newsletter Curious Deal.Sage Ventures is a commercial real estate firm based in Baltimore, MD. The company buys and operates multifamily rental properties. The company also builds and develops homes that we sell.

On this episode of Cattitude, host Michelle Fern welcomes Jakob Shaw, Manager of Strategic Initiatives at PETA, to talk about how small everyday actions can help protect wildlife. From raccoons and squirrels to cats and dogs, animals can easily become trapped in common household items like cans, jars, and bottles. Jakob shares practical, humane tips for preventing harm—from properly securing recyclables to using safe deterrents instead of cruel methods like glue traps. Tune in to learn how simple changes in how we manage trash and household pests can make the world safer for our furry and feathered neighbors.EPISODE NOTES: Living in Harmony with Wildlife: Simple Steps You Can TakeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cattitude-the-1-cat-podcast--6666768/support.

Every day, millions of letters and packages move safely across the country. But what does it take to keep America's mail secure? In this episode, our hosts are joined by Buck Buckley, Special Assistant for Strategic Initiatives with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Bob Dixon, USPS Sr. Director of Delivery & Retail Modernization. Together, they discuss how the Postal Service is using technology to tackle mail theft, porch piracy, and employee safety, and explain how innovative security measures are protecting mail and employees while adapting to new and emerging threats.

Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act reorients U.S. energy policy, redefining its rivalry with China and the global transition. --- Once, climate and clean energy were common ground between the United States and China, most notably in the lead-up to the 2015 Paris Agreement. In the years since, cooperation has given way to competition. China has emerged as the global leader in clean energy manufacturing, while the U.S.—under the Biden administration—moved to catch up through the Inflation Reduction Act. Now, President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act has set a very different course. The law rolls back many clean energy incentives, puts new emphasis on fossil fuels and emerging technologies like advanced nuclear and certain hydrogen sources, and sharpens trade and supply chain tensions with China through expanded tariffs and Foreign Entity of Concern restrictions. What does this shift mean for U.S.–China relations, American competitiveness, and the global energy transition? Scott Moore, director of China programs and strategic initiatives at the University of Pennsylvania, joins Energy Policy Now to unpack the stakes. A leading expert on U.S.–China relations, Moore offers perspective on how Trump’s policies could reshape the balance of power between the world’s two largest economies. Scott Moore is Practice Professor of Political Science, and Director of China Programs and Strategic Initiatives, at the University of Pennsylvania. Related Content Climate Action in the Age of Great Power Rivalry: What Geopolitics Means for the Climate https://kleinmanenergy.upenn.edu/research/publications/climate-action-in-the-age-of-great-power-rivalry-what-geopolitics-means-for-the-climate/ Mitigating Climate Change Through Green Investments https://kleinmanenergy.upenn.edu/research/publications/mitigating-climate-change-through-green-investments/ Energy Policy Now is produced by The Kleinman Center for Energy Policy at the University of Pennsylvania. For all things energy policy, visit kleinmanenergy.upenn.edu.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textIrini Boeder is the VP of National Marketing at Willow Bridge Property Company. Most conversations about marketing focus on ai, the future and what's next. In this episode we focus on the less exciting but foundational parts of marketing.I'm Moshe Crane connect with me on LinkedIn. My day job is the VP of Branding and Strategic Initiatives at Sage Ventures. Check out my newsletter Curious Deal.Sage Ventures is a commercial real estate firm based in Baltimore, MD. The company buys and operates multifamily rental properties. The company also builds and develops homes that we sell.

Michigan State University unveiled a new strategic plan -- MSU 2030 – in September 2021, articulating a shared vision for the university and six bold priorities for continuous improvement. As originally planned, and now under the leadership of President Kevin Guskiewicz, the strategic plan is being refreshed to reflect on lessons learned, adjust course and make progress toward becoming a more contemporary institution focused on cross-cutting priorities and solutions – with “synergy unleashed.” The refreshed, reframed and reimagined strategic plan, MSU 2030: Excellence for Global Impact, reaffirms leadership's commitment to a shared vision for the university through the end of the decade. Here to discuss the evolution of MSU 2030 are MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz and MSU Vice President for Strategic Initiatives Bill Beekman.Conversation Highlights:(1:15) – Kevin, you've said that the compelling vision of an institution taking on the challenges of the 21st century is among the things that attracted me to Michigan State. How so?(2:08) – Bill, you've been involved with the plan's development and implementation since the start. What strikes you about the plan's refresh?(4:11) – Kevin, you've often referred to MSU 2030 as a roadmap. Why is it important for MSU to have this plan and to refresh it now? And what do you mean by “synergy unleashed?(6:24) - The newly revised MSU 2030 plan maintains as foundational elements six strategic and cross-cutting themes and priorities — Student Success, Staff and Faculty Success, Discovery and Innovation for Impact, Sustainable Health, Stewardship for a Sustainable Future, and Access, Opportunity and Excellence.Let's talk about the cross-cutting themes that are injecting new energy into these ongoing efforts and uniting key areas. How do they complement the themes? How and why were they developed and elaborate on what you mean.First, Grow Talent for Michigan and Beyond.(9:10) - Drive Health Transformation.(11:27) - Enroll for the Future.(14:27) - Build Community Together.(17:05) - Achieve Next-Generation Operations and Organization.(18:50) - Access, Opportunity and Excellence.(20:15) - What's next? How will implementation proceed, and how will we measure progress and success?(21:48) – Final thoughts.Listen to “MSU Today with Russ White” on the radio and through Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your shows.Conversation Transcript:Russ White:Michigan State University unveiled a new strategic plan MSU 2030 in September, 2021, articulating a shared vision for the university and six bold priorities for continuous improvement as originally planned. And now under the leadership of President Kevin Kasowitz, the strategic plan is being refreshed to reflect on lessons learned, adjust course and make progress toward becoming a more contemporary institution focused on cross-cutting priorities and solutions. With Synergy Unleashed, the refreshed, reframed, and re-imagined strategic plan MSU 2030 Excellence for Global Impact reaffirms leadership's commitment to a shared vision for the university through the end of the decade. Here to discuss the evolution of MSU 2030, our MSU President, Kevin Guskiewicz and MSU, vice President for Strategic Initiatives, bill Beekman and Kevin and Bill, great to have you back in the state of the art studios of Impact Radio here on campus. And Kevin, you've said that the compelling vision of an institution taking on the challenges of the 21st century is among the things that attracted you to Michigan State. How so, and why?Kevin Guskiewicz:Well, Michigan State University is a proudly public university, one that fills a commitment to the people of Michigan. We rely on taxpayer dollars to transform the lives and improve the quality of life for Michiganders. And so much of the work that's done here through our teaching research and outreach is about the common good. I mean, the new strategic plan that we're here talking about, it's woven throughout the entire roadmap. It's about all that we do is for the public good, the common good. And we felt that the first time we touched down here in East Lansing. And 18 months in, I feel even better about where we're headed than what I did two years ago when I started exploring the opportunity.Speaker 1:And Bill, you've been involved with the plan's development and implementation from the start. What strikes you about the refresh?Bill Beekman:Well, I think one of the most important things about the refresh is the fact that we're actually doing it. So often you have strategic plans that get built and there's inordinate amounts of time spent working on them, and then they sort of drift away. And I think what's really wonderful about the creation of this plan and those that were there at the start, is that they very intentionally decided that we should have a refresh that about a third 40% of the way into the implementation of the plan, that we should pause, take a look at the environment, what's changed, what's going well, what should we be thinking about changing based on internal and external factors and recalibrate. And so it's really a living plan. And to me that's one the most important aspects of the plan is that it does change. It does adapt to our circumstances and our environment.(03:08):It allows for us to think about where should we be course correcting? What things should we be doing differently? How should we learn from what we've done? And that constant course correcting and a living plan, I think continues to make it relevant to what we're doing. And so the process has really been wonderful and allowed our team to focus on the future. It was fortuitous that it happened as Kevin had been here for about nine months or thereabouts, so his energy and vision could be incorporated into the work we're doing. And so yeah, it's been a wonderful process and it's great to see it finished and the work of implementation goes on.Speaker 1 (03:57):Yes. And Kevin, you've often referred to MSU 2030 as a roadmap in addition to a strategic plan. Why is it important for MSU to have this plan and to refresh it now? And what do you mean by synergy unleashed?Speaker 2 (04:12):Well, I've always used the word roadmap rus because I think you need a roadmap to get to a destination. And the destination that was agreed upon back in 2021 were set of established goals and priorities and how we were going to get there needed to be sort of re-imagined. But again, I think as Bill's already said, it's sort of reaffirming those six initial prio...

Agile government is a blueprint for reform. By shifting focus to end-users, empowering small teams, and embracing rapid iteration, agencies can better meet public needs in a fast-changing world. That's the foundation of the National Academy of Public Administration's new Agile Learning Program. Here with insight into how the course equips leaders with practical tools for navigating complexity and driving change are Dr. Joe Mitchell and Amanda Mullan. Dr. Mitchell serves as the Cooley-Fanning Director of Strategic Initiatives & International Programs at the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA). Ms. Mullan serves as the Academy's Project Director for Strategic Initiatives.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Melissa Ross, COJ Director of Strategic Initiatives, and Liaison to the Press, and former WJCT 89.9 host and news anchor, shares how the city developed and embraced the "904 Day" event promotion. Additionally, she talks about ways the city has partnered with various businesses to promote the event and city identity.

This week, I welcome Tom Brussow, VP, Strategic Initiatives for Travel Leaders Discovery, to first discuss the latest trending news in travel, including Spirit Airlines debacle, train travel and more. Later, Brussow shares insights on the top fall travel trends this year. Hear which destinations are buzzing, what people are planning for, and more. Brussow also provides his advice for travel advisors to make this their best fall season. The discussion on fall travel trends begins at the 19-minute mark. Today's episode sponsor: Travel Insured International For over thirty years, TravelInsured.com has provided reliable travel protection from cruising the Caribbean to trekking the Camino. Our Worldwide Trip Protector plans help travelers avoid paying out of pocket for expenses related to unexpected medical emergencies, travel delays, missed connections, and even lost or stolen baggage. With optional add-on bundles that include a cancel-for-any-reason bundle, Travel Insured offers travel protection to help steer every adventure in the right direction. Have any feedback or questions? Want to sponsor the show? Contact us at Podcast@TravelPulse.com and follow us on social media @TravelPulse.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Break The Silence. In this episode of Your Next Mission® video podcast, SMA Tilley sits down with Babs Chase, Senior Vice President, Strategic Initiatives, at the Elizabeth Dole Foundation & Executive Director of Face the Fight™. Together, they have a candid conversation uniting diverse voices to break the stigma around the national tragedy of suicide in the Military and Veteran community.

Listen to how we treat our furry friends if we don't crush cans or put lids on empty jars. Jakob Shaw is Mark's guest and he shares a lot about Mice and Rats and other home visitors that we can help share the planet with in a much better way. PETA.org the people that care!

Shawn Khemsurov is the Co-Founder of Electric Eye, a Shopify design and development agency, and a Partner at Feel, a brand studio where art meets commerce. With over ten years of experience in fashion retail, Shawn has worked with iconic brands including Abercrombie & Fitch, Gap Inc, Nike, Homage, and Only NY, spanning everything from digital experiences to product design.Shawn's journey started in retail, where he immersed himself in the many facets of the industry: from visual merchandising to customer experience, giving him an ability to understand exactly what his clients need. He combines this insight with design expertise to create unique, engaging experiences that drive sales and build brand loyalty.Whether you're running an Ecommerce brand or building your first Shopify store, Shawn offers a candid, insider look at what it takes to create digital experiences that sell and delight customers.In This Conversation We Discuss: [00:44] Intro[01:18] Avoiding hiring the wrong designer[02:34] Identifying gaps in specialized expertise[03:39] Assessing designs for sales potential[04:29] Evaluating expertise before hiring partners[05:06] Balancing creativity with usability[09:02] Providing consulting upfront for clarity[11:19] Avoiding overloading the homepage[14:42] Focusing on what users actually see[15:26] Choosing the right theme upfront[16:38] Collaborating with competent developers[17:29] Balancing custom design and ShopifyResources:Subscribe to Honest Ecommerce on YoutubeSchedule an intro call with one of our experts electriceye.io/connectBrand studio and creative partner feel.studio/workFollow Shawn Khemsurov linkedin.com/in/shawnkhemsurov/If you're enjoying the show, we'd love it if you left Honest Ecommerce a review on Apple Podcasts. It makes a huge impact on the success of the podcast, and we love reading every one of your reviews!

The world of college athletics transformed when Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals became permissible for student-athletes in 2021, creating unprecedented opportunities for young athletes to monetize their personal brands. Taylor Jacobs, Associate Athletic Director of NIL and Strategic Initiatives at LSU, shares insights on how student-athletes can prepare for and navigate the complex NIL landscape.• Parents should help student-athletes identify their passions and strengths early to build marketable personal brands• Social media presence is crucial - 99% of NIL deals include at least one social media component• Student-athletes must treat their social media profiles as business platforms representing their personal brand• Financial literacy is essential - LSU implements comprehensive programs to help athletes manage sudden wealth• Athletes should use a three-bucket approach to money management: general savings, tax savings, and goal-specific savings• Consistency in NIL regulations across states would create a more equitable environment for all student-athletes• The collegiate sports landscape continues to evolve rapidly with the recent implementation of revenue sharingAsk your athlete what they know about NIL and how it might impact them. Check their social media to ensure it's professional and brand-safe for future opportunities. Discuss posts, attitudes, and behaviors that could hurt their brand. Practice money management by asking how they would handle sudden income.Have an idea for a show or a question for Kim? Send us a text messageSupport the showWelcome to Money Matters, the podcast that focuses on how to use the money you have, make the money you need and save the money you want – brought to you by Neighbors Federal Credit Union. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice.

4Gen Logistics has one of the largest zero-emission drayage fleets in Southern California — with 64 battery-electric trucks and 15 hydrogen fuel-cell trucks. But getting there hasn't been easy.In this episode of HDT Talks Trucking, Editor Deborah Lockridge sits down with Brad Bayne, VP of Strategic Initiatives at 4Gen Logistics and a 2023 HDT Truck Fleet Innovator, to discuss the lessons learned on the road to becoming a 100% zero-emissions fleet by 2025.

In this episode of the SRNA "Ask the Expert" podcast moderated by Dr. GG deFiebre, Dr. Kyle Blackburn and Dr. Benjamin Greenberg discussed the need for updated diagnostic criteria for myelitis. Dr. Blackburn explained the term myelitis and the importance of precise terminologies for accurate diagnoses and research [00:05:10]. Dr. Greenberg elaborated on the advancements in testing and understanding of associated disorders like NMOSD and MOGAD since 2002 [00:11:10]. Both experts stated that the shift from "transverse myelitis" to "myelitis" will aid future research, treatments, and patient care [00:17:27]. They reassured patients that these changes would essentially refine their care but not alter it dramatically [00:23:40]. They encouraged patients to stay informed and communicate with their healthcare providers about these updates [00:28:58].Kyle Blackburn, MD is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurology at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. He specializes in neuroimmunology and has clinical interests in antibody-mediated neurologic disorders, including autoimmune encephalitis, epilepsy, and ataxias; neurologic complications of cancers, including paraneoplastic disorders and checkpoint inhibitor/CAR T-cell toxicity; and demyelinating disorders, including sarcoidosis, neuromyelitis optica, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-associated disease, and multiple sclerosis. Dr. Blackburn earned his medical degree at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. He performed his residency in adult neurology at UT Southwestern, serving his final year as Chief Resident, and stayed to complete a fellowship in neuroimmunology, during which he earned the James T. Lubin Clinician Scientist Award from the Siegel Rare Neuroimmune Association (SRNA). He joined the UT Southwestern faculty in 2020.Benjamin M. Greenberg, M.D., M.H.S. is a Professor and the Cain Denius Scholar in Mobility Disorders in the Department of Neurology at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. He currently serves as the Vice Chair of Translational Research and Strategic Initiatives for the Department of Neurology. He is also the interim Director of the Multiple Sclerosis Center and the Director of the Neurosciences Clinical Research Center. In addition, he serves as Director of the Transverse Myelitis and Neuromyelitis Optica Program and the Pediatric Demyelinating Disease Program at Children's Medical Center.Dr. Greenberg earned his medical degree at Baylor College of Medicine before completing an internal medicine internship at Chicago's Rush Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center. He performed his neurology residency at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. He also holds an M.H.S. in molecular microbiology and immunology from the Bloomberg School of Public Health, as well as a bachelor's degree in the history of medicine – both from Johns Hopkins. Prior to his recruitment to UT Southwestern in 2009, Dr. Greenberg was on the faculty of the Johns Hopkins Division of Neuroimmunology, serving as the Director of the Encephalitis Center and Co-Director of the nation's first dedicated Transverse Myelitis Center.Dr. Greenberg splits his clinical time between adult and pediatric patients at William P. Clements Jr. and Zale Lipshy University Hospitals, Parkland, and Children's Medical Center. His research focuses on better diagnosing, prognosticating, and treating demyelinating diseases and nervous system infections. He also coordinates clinical trials to evaluate new treatments to prevent neurologic damage and restore function to affected patients. 00:00 Introduction00:58 Overview of Myelitis and Diagnostic Criteria02:57 Historical Context and Importance of Updated Criteria05:10 Challenges with Current Terminology11:10 Changes in Understanding and Diagnostic Approaches17:27 Implications for Patients and Clinical Practice23:40 Impact on Research and Future Directions28:58 Patient Advocacy31:17 Conclusion

On this episode of #LatinosOutLoud, Rachel La Loca was invited back to City Hall, and this time to chat it up with the Deputy Mayor of Strategic Initiatives, Ana Almanzar--or as she's known to her staff, and now Rachel, "DM Ana". In this interview, we learn about the Deputy Mayor's day-to-day responsibilities and the initiatives she oversees. Reporting to her in this role are the commissioners and executive directors of the Center for Innovation through Data Intelligence, City University of the City of New York, New York City Department of Youth and Community Development, Mayor's Office of Child Care and Early Childhood Education, Mayor's Office of Equity, Mayor's Office of Food Policy, Mayor's Office of Nonprofits, and the Mayor's Fund and City Affiliated Nonprofits. Ana grew up in the Dominican Republic and moved to Bushwick, Brooklyn when she was 17 seeking not just the American dream, but the New York City dream. She is the FIRST Dominican Deputy Mayor for the City of NY. This episode is filled with inspiration, laughs and of course, a LIGHTNING ROUND with the Deputy Mayor. #LatinosOutLoud #RachelLaLoca #Comedy #DeputyMayor #NYC #AnaAlmanzar #podcast #Latinos #Dominican #Stories #Government #NY

Send us a textMarcie Williams started her Multifamily career in leasing. She was the CEO of RKW for 10 years before she sold the company. She is now the CSO at The Bainbridge Companies.I'm Moshe Crane connect with me on LinkedIn. My day job is the VP of Branding and Strategic Initiatives at Sage Ventures. Check out my newsletter Curious Deal.Sage Ventures is a commercial real estate firm based in Baltimore, MD. The company buys and operates multifamily rental properties. The company also builds and develops homes that we sell.

Send us a textAaron Almanza  is a Vice President at The Morgan Group in Houston, TX. I met Aaron when he was the SVP at Dweck Properties. We discuss bringing management in-house. And what it was like looking for a new job when he moved to Houston.I'm Moshe Crane connect with me on LinkedIn. My day job is the VP of Branding and Strategic Initiatives at Sage Ventures. Check out my newsletter Curious Deal.Sage Ventures is a commercial real estate firm based in Baltimore, MD. The company buys and operates multifamily rental properties. The company also builds and develops homes that we sell.

On this episode of #LatinosOutLoud, @RachelLaLoca is on location for the prelude to the parade of the year....the National Dominican Day Parade! This Dominican parade weekend she had the privilege of attending the Mayor's reception for Dominican Heritage at Gracie Mansion, where she conducted mini-interviews with founder of Dyckman Beer, Juan Camilo + Madrina and Padrino of this year's parade, Executive Producer and Partner of Freedom Studios, Meiling Macias-Toro and her husband, Rafael Toro who is the National Director of Public Relations for Goya Foods and more! The next day, she attended the #NatDDP Gala, where she got to chat with parade honorees, such as former guest of the podcast, #TheKidMero, +Deputy Mayor of Strategic Initiatives, Ana Almanzar + Concert Producer, Saucy and more! The National #DominicanDayParade is more than a parade—it's a movement. Your support fuels the 43rd celebration:

In today's episode of Supply Chain Now, we discuss evolving dynamics within the supply chain job market, particularly in light of recent tariff implications and the pressing need for skilled professionals. Welcome to The Buzz!Hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter also welcome special guest Katie Date, SVP of Industry Relations & Strategic Initiatives at Manifest, to discuss the upcoming Manifest 2026 conference and all the top news and recent developments in supply chain and logistics, including: The evolving job market within the supply chain sectorThe health of the manufacturing industryThe increasing integration of artificial intelligence in operational processesHow businesses are adapting to tariffs and market fluctuations, with insights drawn from a recent survey that highlights the creation of new job roles in response to these changesThe importance of sharing knowledge and best practicesJoin us for invaluable insights and actionable strategies to navigate the current and future landscape of supply chain leadership.Additional Links & Resources:With That Said: https://bit.ly/45yieR9 EasyPost Guide: Why Peak 2025 Is Not Business as Usual: https://bit.ly/4m5Q85QSurvey shows tariffs impacting U.S. job market: https://bit.ly/4fjJXIN‘We're going to have to live with tariffs': PMI: https://bit.ly/45nSjupLogistics Marketplace: https://bit.ly/3GVy7YD5 questions I frequently get asked about automating operations with AI: https://bit.ly/4m17MrmManifest 2026: ManifestVegas.com/SupplyChainNow Connect with Katie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-date-89573215/Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.comWatch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-nowSubscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/joinWork with us! Download Supply Chain Now's NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVkWEBINAR- Real Stories: How an Australian Powerhouse Unlocked Millions in Capex Using Advanced Supply Chain Planning: https://bit.ly/3TsxBUFWEBINAR- From Framework to Action: Decision Automation in the Agentic Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4nKlkJ6WEBINAR- From Legacy to Leading Edge, Morgan Foods' Supply Chain Journey: https://bit.ly/3IcDDGkWEBINAR- Tomorrow's Factory is Already Here: https://bit.ly/45QMGqoWEBINAR- Mastering Data in the AI Explosion Age - Managing the Fuel That

Send us a textAlex is the CEO of the Cardinal Group. This is his second time on the pod. I'm Moshe Crane connect with me on LinkedIn. My day job is the VP of Branding and Strategic Initiatives at Sage Ventures. Check out my newsletter Curious Deal.Sage Ventures is a commercial real estate firm based in Baltimore, MD. The company buys and operates multifamily rental properties. The company also builds and develops homes that we sell.

Send us a textI'm Moshe Crane connect with me on LinkedIn. My day job is the VP of Branding and Strategic Initiatives at Sage Ventures. Check out my newsletter Curious Deal.Sage Ventures is a commercial real estate firm based in Baltimore, MD. The company buys and operates multifamily rental properties. The company also builds and develops homes that we sell.

In this episode, Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, is joined by Clayton Ruley, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Mission Advancement & Impact at the Community Liver Alliance. Clayton shares his decades-long journey from frontline harm reduction work to shaping national health policy. Together, they discuss the need for compassion in healthcare, the importance of patient-centered policymaking, and the urgent challenges facing programs like 340B and Medicaid. Clayton also highlights how community-level work and federal health policies intersect — and why transparency and access matter now more than ever. Among the highlights in this episode: 01:04: Clayton describes his background and early career, influenced by a family of social workers and his work in harm reduction clinics 04:04: Clayton explains what policymakers often miss: the need for options, compassion, and respect in patient care, especially for people facing stigma or systemic barriers 07:05: Clayton outlines the mission of the Community Liver Alliance and his evolving role in expanding national and global impact 09:56: Clayton discusses the top policy priorities for the Community Liver Alliance, including improving transparency and accountability in the 340B program 14:30: Clayton gives real-life examples of how 340B funding can transform communities through housing, outreach, and treatment access 15:55: Clayton and Steven discuss the harms of non-medical switching and the need to protect patient stability in treatment 16:52: They highlight concerns about potential Medicaid and Medicare cuts and the downstream impact on underserved communities 17:22: Steven reminds listeners of the delayed consequences of the Build Back Better bill, with millions projected to lose Medicaid access by 2027 18:54: Clayton warns that rising premiums could force patients to forgo insurance entirely — a dangerous outcome for people with chronic diseases To learn more about the Community Liver Alliance or support their advocacy efforts, visit: https://communityliveralliance.org/ Contact Our Host Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF. We want to hear what you think. Send your comments in the form of an email, video, or audio clip of yourself to podcasts@ghlf.org Listen to all episodes of The Health Advocates on our website (https://ghlf.org/the-health-advocates) or on your favorite podcast channel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode, Israel Policy Forum Policy Advisor and Tel Aviv-based journalist Neri Zilber and Israel Policy Forum Director of Strategic Initiatives and IPF Atid Shanie Reichman discuss the crisis inside the Netanyahu governing coalition over the ultra-Orthodox military draft issue, the chances of a snap election being called early next year, the status of the Gaza ceasefire talks, the escalation last week between Israel and Syria over spiraling inter-ethnic violence in the largely Druze part of southern Syria, American Jewish perceptions of Israel and the ongoing war, and more.Support the showFollow us on Instagram, Twitter/X, and Bluesky, and subscribe to our email list here.

What if the secret to building a truly loyal gym membership—or any recurring customer base—starts the moment someone tries to leave? That question struck me while talking with Blair McHaney, a trailblazing fitness industry leader who's spent more than 40 years reimagining how gyms can deliver customer (or, as Blair puts it, member) experience. Too often, fitness centers focus on sales at the expense of real loyalty, missing the deeper connection that gets members to not only return, but rave about you to others—even after they've canceled. In this episode of the Delighted Customers podcast, Blair reveals why retention isn't about holding onto credit cards, but about keeping (or regaining) a place in members' hearts and minds. We dive into actionable strategies for creating club experiences so powerful that over 50% of new signups are from people who used to be members—and choose to come back. Blair's insights are essential listening not just for those in the fitness industry, but for anyone who wants to operationalize customer experience in a way that drives lasting loyalty and real business results. His expertise in data-driven experience design, journey mapping, and hospitality is second to none. Whether you lead a gym, a bank, or a tech company, Blair will challenge the way you think about member lifecycle, operational excellence, and the critical role of small, human moments that delight customers. Here are three burning questions Blair answers on the show: Is it a myth that gyms just want to sell as many memberships as possible, hoping for high turnover—or is there a smarter, more humane way to build retention and lasting brand love? What are the often-overlooked operational “basics” (think: cleanliness, equipment repair, and front desk hospitality) that form the foundation for differentiation in a crowded industry? How do journey mapping and persona-driven training—far beyond standard SOPs—transform employee culture and drive a superior customer experience at scale? I invite you to listen, subscribe, and share this episode! Find it on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or search for Delighted Customers on your favorite podcast platform. Meet Blair McKaney Blair McHaney is an entrepreneur, innovator, and CX educator with over 40 years of hands-on leadership in the fitness industry. He currently serves as President and CEO of MX Metrics, Medallia's fitness vertical partner, where he leads data-driven strategies to enhance member experiences across nearly 1,000 fitness clubs worldwide. Prior to that, Blair spent three formative years at Medallia as VP of Strategic Initiatives, where his operational expertise—not tech background—helped launch scalable approaches to customer and member experience management. He's also an owner of two successful fitness clubs in Central Washington, where he's pioneered a radically member-centered approach to retention, alumni creation, and frontline hospitality. Blair's journey is a testament to learning by doing: from journeyman carpenter to gym owner at age 23, to tech-enabled CX leader, he's obsessed with operationalizing experience. He's a champion of “alumni creation”—ensuring members who leave do so as fans, not detractors—and believes the greatest opportunities in fitness (and beyond) are found in reimagining processes, policies, and employee education to put the customer first. Connect with Blair at LinkedIn or by email at blair@mxmetrics.com.

Maureen Frowenfeld, MPH, Chief of Staff to the EVP/CAO and Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives at University of Maryland Faculty Physicians, joins the podcast to discuss key issues shaping today's healthcare landscape. She shares her perspective on industry consolidation, the growing shortage of care providers, and the strategic initiatives addressing these challenges. Maureen also offers valuable advice for emerging leaders working to make an impact in an evolving healthcare environment.

Join Lori as she sits down with Rafia Qureshi, Managing Director of Strategic Initiatives at LEBEC, a nonprofit organization that's redefining how we fund change. Rafia shares powerful insights that will resonate with changemakers, nonprofit leaders, and anyone curious about using money more intentionally for greater impact.   Get ready to be inspired by real-world examples of how LEBEC is driving meaningful, lasting change — and why reimagining philanthropy might be the key to unlocking a better future!   Here are the things to expect in this episode: Rafia's journey that led her to join the organization What motivates Rafia to drive meaningful impact through innovative finance and philanthropy How LEBEC brings capital to high-impact projects and initiatives The importance of passing on the values of intentional giving and impact to the next generation And much more! Rafia's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafia-qureshi-7331b92/ LEBEC's Website: https://lebec.co/ LEBEC's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lebec-co/   Connect with Lori Kranczer! Website: https://linkphilanthropic.com Email: info@linkphilanthropic.com 

in July of 2018, Governor Henry McMaster of South Carolina issued an executive order to end the inclusion of Planned Parenthood in the Medicaid program. The Department of Health and Human Services then informed Planned Parenthood that they were no longer qualified to provide services to Medicaid beneficiaries, which prompted lawsuits both from Planned Parenthood and beneficiaries seeking to enforce their right to “free-choice-of-provider,” included in a 1967 Medicaid provision. This case asked whether this provision unambiguously confers a private right upon a Medicaid beneficiary to choose a specific provider. On June 26, 2025, the Court ruled 6–3 in favor of South Carolina, affirming the state's right to exclude abortion providers from its Medicaid program. Tune in to this Courthouse Steps podcast as we break down the case and its recent decision. Featuring: John J. Bursch, Senior Counsel and VP, Appellate Advocacy, Alliance Defending Freedom Kyle Douglas Hawkins, Partner, Lehotsky Keller Moderator: Ryan L. Bangert, Senior Vice President, Strategic Initiatives & Special Counsel to the President, Alliance Defending Freedom

Much of the scientific process involves searching. But rather than continue to rely on the luck of discovery, Google DeepMind has engineered a more efficient AI agent that mines complex spaces to facilitate scientific breakthroughs. Sarah Guo speaks with Pushmeet Kohli, VP of Science and Strategic Initiatives, and research scientist Matej Balog at Google DeepMind about AlphaEvolve, an autonomous coding agent they developed that finds new algorithms through evolutionary search. Pushmeet and Matej talk about how AlphaEvolve tackles the problem of matrix multiplication efficiency, scaling and iteration in problem solving, and whether or not this means we are at self-improving AI. Together, they also explore the implications AlphaEvolve has to other sciences beyond mathematics and computer science. Sign up for new podcasts every week. Email feedback to show@no-priors.com Follow us on Twitter: @NoPriorsPod | @Saranormous | @EladGil | @pushmeet | @matejbalog Chapters: 00:00 Pushmeet Kohli and Matej Balog Introduction 0:48 Origin of AlphaEvolve 02:31 AlphaEvolve's Progression from AlphaGo and AlphaTensor 08:02 The Open Problem of Matrix Multiplication Efficiency 11:18 How AlphaEvolve Evolves Code 14:43 Scaling and Predicting Iterations 16:52 Implications for Coding Agents 19:42 Overcoming Limits of Automated Evaluators 25:21 Are We At Self-Improving AI? 28:10 Effects on Scientific Discovery and Mathematics 31:50 Role of Human Scientists with AlphaEvolve 38:30 Making AlphaEvolve Broadly Accessible 40:18 Applying AlphaEvolve Within Google 41:39 Conclusion

LLMs fail because they're prediction machines, not fact machines. Michelle Robbins, Manager of Strategic Initiatives and Intelligence at LinkedIn, explains why AI models produce inconsistent responses and require critical evaluation. She advocates treating LLMs as thought partners rather than absolute authorities, emphasizing the critical importance of AI alignment to prevent harmful outputs and ensure optimal human outcomes as we progress toward artificial general intelligence.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Lisa and Ellen get the opportunity to speak with Junna Ro and Melanie Sponholz to recap the Women in Compliance Summit and the discuss the evolving landscape for women in the field. Junna Ro, a seasoned legal and compliance executive and the Head of Strategic Initiatives at the University of California, and Melanie Sponholz, Chief Compliance Officer & Director of Responsible Investing ‑ Portfolio Operations, Waud Capital Partners shared insights from the summit.  Both Junna and Melanie emphasized the collective support and sense of community at the event, and talked about her session on mentorship and allyship, and effective strategies to build these relationships. Junna's session with Elizabeth Simon focused on Women on Boards and also provided insight and strategies. They also discuss the current state of the profession, both in terms of challenges and opportunities.