Podcasts about strategic initiatives

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.”

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!

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

High-stakes meeting facilitator Kristin Arnold shares how to prioritize strategic initiatives AND create an interrelationship digraph.

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.

Midland Care Connection, a nonprofit in Topeka, KS, offers the spectrum of senior care to people over 55 in 40 counties in Kansas and Missouri. Its services include home health, hospice, palliative care and the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). It also is the owner of an Accountable Care Organization. Dual eligibles make up about 85-90% of Midland Care's PACE clients. PACE, which provides a range of services to keep people in their homes and out of nursing homes, helps to improve the quality of life and lower healthcare costs of dual eligibles within the first 90 days, Wiltz said. Preventive care, he emphasized, is the key to treating this group. One of the biggest changes that has taken place since the organization started PACE in 2007 has been Kansas' growing understanding and acceptance of PACE. This bodes well with the recent passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which contained federal Medicaid reductions. Midland Care's diversified revenue streams also help to shoulder the organization from Medicare home health and Medicaid reimbursement cuts. With the continuing reductions to home health payment, Wiltz believes home health is reaching a crisis point. Agencies are going to have to pivot away from Medicare fee-for-service and move to models such as Medicare Advantage's Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs).Follow us on social media:X: @McKHomeCareFacebook: McKnight's Home CareLinkedIn: McKnight's Home CareInstagram: mcknights_homecareFollow Midland Care Connection on social media:X:  @MidlandCaresFacebook: Midland Care Connection, Inc.Show contributors:McKnight's Home Care Editor Liza Berger; Jeremy Wiltz, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Midland Care Connection

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.

Michelle Bangert, Managing Editor of Quality, talks with the team from Sierra College − Amy Schultz, executive dean for Workforce and Strategic Initiatives, and Roy Ingram, department chair for Electronics, Automation, Robotics, and Industrial Systems, on a topic dear to the heart of the quality industry−the workforce, automation and training. 

Send us a textMatthew Woods is the CEO at Apartment List. In this episode we talk about doing things the A-List way.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 textCorey & Candice Muldrow founded and run M Group Capital together in Dallas, TX. They share a passion and a vision for their company. It was great to chat with them about where they are and where their going.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.

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 

Recorded live at the 2024 Forum. 

Digital transformation in higher education often focuses on technology. But for Utah State University, the transformation has been about outcomes: improving retention, strengthening equity, and building scalable systems of support without overhauling infrastructure. In this episode of the Changing Higher Ed® podcast, Dr. Drumm McNaughton speaks with Rene Eborn, Associate Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Deputy of Digital Transformation at Utah State University, about how the institution designed and implemented a connected campus strategy that integrates advising, communications, and academic support into a single mobile-first platform. Drawing on her decades of experience in higher ed and edtech leadership, Eborn shares how USU replaced nine siloed tools with five integrated platforms, enabling early alerts, AI-powered nudges, and real-time visibility across departments. She explains how this model supports faculty, staff, and especially underserved student populations—including first-generation, commuter, and online learners—by surfacing what students need, when they need it. This conversation is especially relevant for institutional leaders looking to align digital infrastructure with student success goals, without ballooning their tech stack or losing sight of their mission. Topics Covered: Why USU's connected campus approach focuses on student equity and support How the university integrated CRM, LMS, advising, and communications systems The role of AI nudges and early alerts in preventing student disengagement How faculty and staff use the system to support students in real time What the rollout process looked like—and why stakeholder involvement was key What's next: building toward a full 360-degree student lifecycle view Real-World Examples Discussed: A first-generation student juggling three jobs flagged by the early alert system and connected to scholarship resources in time Student dashboards that surface personalized academic, advising, and financial steps A platform expansion that now includes parents, alumni, and prospective students High adoption rates driven by student feedback and design input Three Key Takeaways for Leadership: Technology should be integrated, not layered—start with user needs and existing infrastructure. Faculty and staff buy-in depends on systems that make their work easier, not more complicated. Student success improves when support is timely, personalized, and accessible—especially for those who need it most. This episode offers a practical look at what's possible when digital transformation is driven by strategy, not software—and why connected campuses may be one of the most effective ways to support today's diverse student population. Recommended For: Presidents, provosts, CIOs, trustees, enrollment managers, and student success leaders building or scaling student-centered infrastructure. Read the transcript: https://changinghighered.com/creating-a-connected-campus-strategy-for-student-success/   #ConnectedCampus #StudentSuccess #HigherEdTechnology #HigherEducationPodcast #DigitalTransformation

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.

Michele is Director of Strategic Initiatives with Students for Life. As a sophomore in high school, Michele chose the topic of abortion for a speech class project. While researching the assignment, she learned the truth about abortion and immediately realized she was pro-life. But it wasn't until after college, at the Maryland March for Life, that Michele discovered Students for Life. Michele shares crucial information on the Standing With You and Campaign for Abortion Free Cities with listeners.

The AI race is transforming search engine strategies. Michelle Robbins, Manager of Strategic Initiatives and Intelligence at LinkedIn, shares insights from her decade of tracking AI's evolution in search. She examines Google's cautious approach to AI integration, the challenges of monetizing AI-driven search experiences, and why companies must diversify beyond search engines to build sustainable audience acquisition strategies.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.

Send us a textBill Knowles is the VP of Sales at Renew. Renew is a tool for improving renewals. 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 Zag.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 textMark Sharpe is the Director of Education at The Maintenance Academy. In this episode we discuss the launch of the TMA and what you need to know about it.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 Zag.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 textHow can small steps spark significant changes for a healthier planet? Brenda Baker, Vice President of Exhibits, Facilities, and Strategic Initiatives at the Madison Children's Museum, walks us through the newly published (AND FREE) Climate Action Playbook designed to inspire and empower the next generation of environmental stewards. Highlighting the Caretakers of Wonder collaboration and addressing the impacts of federal budget cuts, we delve into the museum's commitment to positive change.Key Points:Introduction to Caretakers of Wonder, a collaborative initiative aimed at promoting sustainability and love of nature for children and families.The newly published Climate Action Playbook, designed to guide caregivers and museum professionals in fostering nature connection, empathy, resilience, and hope in young people.Challenges faced by museums due to federal funding cuts and the importance of private support for innovative family services.The role of museums as community equalizers and spaces for joy, empathy, learning through play, and mental well-being.Chapters:(0:00:00) - Caretakers of Wonder Climate Action Playbook Overview of the Madison Children's Museum's commitment to sustainability and climate action.Brenda Baker discusses Caretakers of Wonder and the Climate Action Playbook.(0:08:34) - Impacts of Empathy and Learning Through Play for Kids AND AdultsEmphasis on fostering hope and collective action among young children through simple activities.Discussion on the impact of federal funding cuts and the role of museums as community equalizers.(0:19:24) - Youth Hope in Climate Action Urgent need for support at the Madison Children's Museum.Brenda Baker shares her sources of hope and the inspiring creativity of young people.Links:Madison Children's MuseumClimate Action Playbook: [Download for FREE]Caretakers of WonderDonate to Madison Children's MuseumContact Brenda Baker: bbaker@madisonchildrensmuseum.orgTune in to be inspired by the museum's dedication to creating a brighter, more sustainable future for our children and our planet!Support the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Send us a textJulie Blanc is the Co-Founder and CEO of Rentana. Rentana is an AI-powered revenue intelligence platform for multifamily owners and operators.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 Zag.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.

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” - 2 Corinthians 8:9This powerful verse is often quoted when we talk about generosity, and rightly so. It shows us that generosity isn't just a financial principle—it's rooted in the very heart of the Gospel. Today, Dr. Nathan W. Harris joins us to explore that connection more deeply.Dr. Nathan W. Harris is the Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at The University of Mobile in Mobile, Alabama. He is also the author of A Short Guide to Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace.What Is Gospel Generosity?Gospel generosity is giving rooted in the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ. Generosity is not merely a virtue for the Christian life but a cheerful disposition that springs forth from the gospel. This kind of generosity arises from new life in Christ, is empowered by the Holy Spirit, and reflects the Father's model of grace throughout creation.At its core, gospel generosity isn't just about giving—it's about proclaiming and portraying Christ's saving work in our lives. It signifies a radical transformation of a believer's heart and mind, leading to joyful stewardship of resources in service to God's kingdom.Beyond the Tithe: A Higher CallingOne of the most debated topics surrounding generosity is the concept of tithing. Are Christians called to tithe, or is there a greater expectation?While tithing—giving 10%—is not explicitly required for Christians, the gospel calls us to something far greater. We aren't obligated to give; instead, Christians have an incredible gospel opportunity. We are called to live generously, humbly, selflessly, and with the kingdom of God in mind.This perspective reframes giving not as a rule to follow but as an act of grace and worship, rooted in gratitude for what Christ has done.How the Gospel Transforms Our View of MoneyThe gospel transforms our hearts and minds and revolutionizes how we approach money and stewardship. Martin Luther once said:“There are three conversions in one's life—the conversion of the heart, the mind, and the pocketbook.” When we encounter Christ, our hearts are filled with affection for Him, and our minds are set on heavenly things. However, many Christians struggle to surrender their finances to God fully. You can't hold on to Christ while also holding on to your money.A heart transformed by the gospel desires to honor Christ above wealth. A mind renewed by the gospel prioritizes kingdom values over worldly ones. This transformation shapes every aspect of our financial lives, from earning and saving to spending and giving.Living as Stewards of God's ResourcesWhen our hearts and minds are fully surrendered to Christ, our finances naturally follow. Giving becomes not just an obligation but an act of worship and a reflection of the gospel's transforming power.To explore these ideas further, check out Dr. Nathan W. Harris's book,  A Short Guide to Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace. This concise guide offers biblical wisdom and practical insights into living a life of joyful, gospel-rooted generosity.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a whole life insurance policy for my mom that we've been paying on for about nine years. I'm wondering if I should just cash it in since we're almost at the full policy amount.What is the best educational investment account to use for my 10 and 8-year-olds when they're ready for college? I've just been saving money in savings accounts.I wanted to ask about the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset - are they still in effect? I'm a firefighter and paramedic who worked in the public service and private sector for 30 years.My wife and I don't have a retirement plan yet. I'm 53 and my wife doesn't work. We have a vacant lot worth $45,000, and I'm wondering what we can do with the money from selling it to help prepare for our retirement.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)A Short Guide to Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace by Dr. Nathan W. HarrisSavingForCollege.comWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

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 recent terror attacks against Jews in America, the safety of the American Jewish community, the controversial new humanitarian aid plan for Gaza and competing narratives over chaos and violence at the aid distribution hubs, growing international pressure on Israel, the latest Israeli domestic political intrigues, and more.Support the showFollow us on Instagram, Twitter/X, and Bluesky, and subscribe to our email list here.

Today's guest is Liz Stein, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Certified Collision Group, one of the largest networks of independent, OEM-certified repairers in the country. CCG is known for helping its members obtain, maintain, and—critically—maximize the value of their certifications. During our conversation, we'll dig into how CCG supports shops in building a certification game plan, what independent operators can learn from that approach, and how certification can be much more than a credential—it can be a driver of long-term business growth.  Connect with Liz: Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-stein-77412850/ Website: https://certifiedcg.com/https://certifiedcg.com/   This episode is sponsored by: asTech asTech is dedicated to safety, precision, and innovation in vehicle diagnostics. With industry-leading scanning and calibration solutions, asTech ensures every repair meets OEM standards, enhancing safety and customer satisfaction. Continuously testing and scanning new vehicles, asTech refines its technology to stay ahead of modern repair challenges. A tool stack covering 40+ brands and a network of 400+ ASE and I-CAR certified technicians provide fast, accurate diagnostics that maximize efficiency. asTech—driven by precision, powered by safety. Visit https://astech.com/ today or call 1-888-486-1166.

A Return With Purpose: Dr. Bob Lutz's New Chapter at CedarvilleDr. Bob Lutz's journey starts in the quiet stretch between Noblesville and Anderson, Indiana. He grew up in a pastor's home, where faith was woven into everyday life — where church softball games and pickup basketball shared space with Scripture and community. It was there, in the ordinary rhythms of life, that Bob first encountered the extraordinary grace of God.When it came time to choose a college, Cedarville University rose to the top. Not just for its academics but for something deeper: a place where biblical truth and real community came together in a meaningful way. That draw — of faith, purpose, and belonging — was strong. And it set Bob on a path that's now come full circle.Today, Bob has stepped into a new role as Vice President for Strategic Initiatives at Cedarville. For him, it's more than a title — it's an opportunity to help guide a university he deeply believes in. One of his key focuses is expanding online programs, and although some might wonder if going digital risks losing the heart of what makes Cedarville special, Bob doesn't see it that way.He's talked to students, listened closely, and what he's heard has only strengthened his resolve. They know the value of being on campus, but they also see how an online experience — when done well — can still carry the same Cedarville DNA: academic excellence, biblical grounding, and intentional community.What gives him the greatest hope? It's the same thing that drew him to Cedarville in the first place — the belief that God works powerfully through simple, faithful things: the teaching of His Word and the relationships formed around it.With that in mind, Dr. Bob Lutz has stepped into his new role full of vision, grounded in tradition, and confident that God will continue doing extraordinary things through Cedarville's ordinary, faithful work.Hear directly from Bob's heart on this week's episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.https://share.transistor.fm/s/fa282d22https://youtu.be/PRhom-s_Fug

In part two of The Journey Beyond Death begins a powerful three-part arc on Mental Health Resiliency. In this deeply honest and emotionally raw episode, we explore how the grieving mind struggles to stay grounded after the loss of someone irreplaceable — and what survivors can do to regain emotional equilibrium. Certified grief educator and thanatologist Elreacy Dock joins us to offer expert insight on the early stages of grief and the emotional turbulence that can last for years. Elreacy shares why year two is often more emotionally taxing than year one, and how avoiding emotions too long can trigger delayed grief and breakdowns. We also discuss the dangers of using substances to suppress grief, and instead offer healthier rituals that restore stability and self-expression. Joining Elreacy are Carole Brody Fleet, Joyce Hocker, and Mark Henick — all of whom bring unique expertise and lived experience. From suicide prevention and emotional sobriety to reclaiming identity after widowhood, this episode offers guidance that is fiercely compassionate and unapologetically real. Mental health isn't about “getting over” death. It's about learning how to live beside the wound. --------------------------------------- Featuring in order of appearance: 01:00 – Certified Grief Educator Elreacy Dock 09:54 – Carole Brody Fleet 27:18 – Psychologist Dr. Joyce Hocker 38.52 - Mark Henick --------------------------------------- Elreacy Dock Elreacy Dock is a certified grief educator, thanatologist, behavioral health consultant, and death educator. She serves as Chair of the Thanatology Department at Capstone University, where she designed a graduate-level program in grief studies. Trained by renowned grief expert David Kessler, Elreacy combines academic depth with compassionate support for those experiencing loss. She is also a published co-author of Integrated Healthcare: Applications for Social Work, and her work has been featured in major outlets such as Vogue, Newsweek, and Harper's Bazaar Arabia. website: www.elreacydock.com. --------------------------------------- Carole Brody Fleet Carole Brody Fleet is the multi-award winning author of the forthcoming book, “Loss is a Four-Letter Word…” (HCI Books, September, 2018); as well as the #1 release in its genre, “When Bad Things Happen to Good Women…” (Viva Editions). She is also the author of “Happily EVEN After… “(Viva Editions); winner of the prestigious Books for a Better Life Award, one of the top national awards in publishing; as well as the critically praised, national bestseller, “Widows Wear Stilettos…” (New Horizon Press). Carole is additionally the author and executive producer of the best selling spoken-word CD, entitled, “Widows Wear Stilettos: What Now?”. Website: http://www.widowswearstilettos.com/ --------------------------------------- Joyce Hocker Joyce Hocker, Ph.D., a former professor at the University of Montana, is the author of Interpersonal Conflict, used in more than 250 colleges and universities and now in its 10th edition. Now semi-retired, Hocker teaches in the Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Montana, and at Red Willow Learning Center, a nonprofit in Missoula, which supports resilience in people who suffer difficult life experiences. Her latest book is The Trail to Tincup. Website: http://www.redwillowlearning.org/ --------------------------------------- Mark Henick With over three and a half million views, Mark Henick's TEDx talk, “Why We Choose Suicide,” is among the most watched in the world. His story of searching for “the man in the light brown jacket” who saved his life from a teenage suicide attempt captured global attention, and when he learned of products being sold on Amazon that promoted suicide, his successful online petition to have them removed garnered tens of thousands of signatures. As the National Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), his talks are informed by his direct experience with stigma and the mental health care system, and he has dedicated his life from an early age to opening minds and creating change. Henick brings his diverse and unique perspective to every audience, as someone who has been a patient, a professional, and a policy influencer in the mental health system. Website: https://markhenick.com/ ---------------------------------------