Podcasts about washingtonians

Welcome to the latest episode of Lunch with Shelley with today's special guest Skye Marinda.  Skye is a tarot reader, life coach, and event curator here in DC. She views tarot as a fun and creative tool for self-reflection and guidance, and her talents have been featured in The Washington Post, Axios, WTOP, and The Washingtonian. Since 2020 – Sky has given over 2,000 tarot readings and led workshops to hundreds of people from all over the world.  She also curates witchy art markets – parties - and events all year long! Join us at the always yummy Peacock Café for a fun conversation about all things Tarot, witchy, how Skye came to be a tarot pro and her reading for DC over delicious tomato soup and salads.  Check us out at www.lunchwithshelley.com or wherever you get your favorite podcast and as always Peace, Love and Lunch!

Clark County Jail Services is asking residents to weigh in on proposed updates to its Keep Washington Working policy, a state-mandated framework meant to protect the privacy of all Washingtonians in local jails, with public comments due by noon on Dec. 10. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/jail-services-seeks-public-comment-on-updates-to-keep-washington-working-policy/ #ClarkCounty #JailServices #KeepWashingtonWorking

Silas Oluyole has years of film and television experience, but specializes in filmmaking. He is a native Washingtonian, but spent his childhood in South Nigeria, Africa, where he developed an interest in filmmaking. In 1991, he returned to the United States to pursue his interests. Upon his return to Washington, DC, Silas started his film career on a Black Entertainment Television field set as a Production Assistant. This experience motivated him to learn all aspects of filmmaking, so he enrolled in Howard University's Film, Television and Radio Department in 1997. Silas made the most of every opportunity that was set before him. In 1998, he met and sought out mentorships with renowned and accomplished filmmakers and Cinematographers such as Bill Duke, Haile Gerima, and Kwesi Fante, who are current or former faculty members at Howard University. These mentorships inspired Silas to expand his talent, knowledge and creativity in other areas using film. Moreover, in 1998 Silas opened a full service production company, Incognito Images Productions. Over the course of the years, he has developed his talent and skills with many film projects to add as accomplished experience. He has directed short films, commercial and program introductions, live broadcasts, public service announcements, and a host of news documentaries. In 2002, Silas wrote and directed the short film “The Color of My Mother,” which won Howard University's Paul Robeson Award for Best Production. He also directed OBA/ King & Cedella. As a Cinematographer, Silas has a host of independent film projects that have demonstrated his technical and creative skills using 16, Super 16 and 35mm cameras. He is also a talented scriptwriter ( The Darkness In The Light, A Turtle's Dream, Blue Dimension, Lena, Cedella, and OBA (King) with two short films and one feature film awaiting production. DP for documentary about Adger Cowans & Peter Bradley, Straight Crankin Gogo documentary. Silas is a graduate from Howard University and is a member in the Women in Film and Video Association, Washington DC Office of Motion Pictures, and Kodak Motion Pictures.

In the 69th episode of the Trade Show Talk podcast, host Danica Tormohlen interviewed Kinsey Fabrizio, president of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) and producer of the Consumer Electronic Show (CES). They discuss what's new for CES 2026, which is expected to welcome more than 140,000 attendees from 150+ countries to Las Vegas in January.    The 2026 tech extravaganza will debut the CES Foundry focused on AI and quantum technologies, a show sector that will be held at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Fabrizio shared insights from her recent trip to the UFI Global Congress in Hong Kong and outlined how CTA is leveraging AI to enhance attendee experiences through the event's mobile app.     Additionally, there's an advocacy update from Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance EVP Tommy Goodwin on the latest government and tariff developments affecting the trade show industry.    This episode is brought to my Trade Show News Network and is sponsored by Marriott.    Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Trade Show Talk  01:26 Meet Kinsey Fabrizio: Background and Achievements  02:47 Insights from the UFI Global Congress  05:06 Preview of CES 2026  06:25 Exciting New Features at CES 2026  08:18 The Role of Robotics and Health Tech at CES  12:42 Kinsey's Fabrizio's Journey and Leadership at CTA  22:54 Advocacy and AI in the Tech Industry  30:14 Personal Interests and Hobbies  31:10 Favorite Gadgets and Wishlist  35:27 Travel Tips and Hacks  39:06 Advocacy Update with Tommy Goodwin  39:33 Government Reopening and Tariff Discussions  46:05 Visa Fee and Industry Impact  50:17 Conclusion and Farewell    Guest bio: Kinsey Fabrizio Kinsey Fabrizio is president of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, which represents more than 1,200 consumer technology companies and owns and produces CES® - the most influential tech event in the world. In this role, Fabrizio serves on CTA's Executive board and directs strategy and operations across all business units.  Since joining CTA in 2008, Fabrizio has driven transformation at both CTA and CES. As senior vice president, she oversaw CES conferences and show operations, led an expansion of CES products, and spearheaded a modernization of CTA's membership infrastructure and categories.  Earlier in her career, she drove strategic growth in emerging tech categories. A pioneer in the digital health space, Fabrizio created CTA's Health Division, launched a healthcare provider program for doctors at CES 2015, and debuted CES's first Continuing Medical Education (CME)-accredited conference in 2019. She also spearheaded the Video Division Board's 4K and 8K TV initiatives, founded the Content and Entertainment Council, and launched CTA's Disruptive Innovation Council in 2016 to engage companies with breakthrough technologies and services.  Fabrizio's leadership earned her recognition as one of Washingtonian's Most Powerful Women in 2025 and a Washingtonian Tech Titan in 2024 and 2025. She also received the 2023 Women in CT Legacy Award for her contributions to the consumer technology industry.  Fabrizio is a member of the George Mason University Costello College of Business Dean's Advisory Council and the Washington Economic Club. She holds a BA from George Mason University and an MBA from the University of Maryland Global Campus. She lives in Arlington, VA, with her husband and two children.  Guest bio: Tommy Goodwin Tommy Goodwin is Executive Vice President for the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance (ECA), the advocacy association for the business events industry. In this role, he leads ECA's work on behalf of the interconnected ecosystem of exhibitors, event and meeting organizers, suppliers, venues, and destinations that comprise the global business events landscape. Prior to joining ECA, Tommy spent more than 20 years working for several globally recognized associations and corporations, including Oracle, AARP, and the Project Management Institute. Recognized by The Hill in its list of association "Top Lobbyists" every year since 2020, Tommy has also received several industry awards including: CEO Update/Association Trends: Leading Association Lobbyist (2023) American Society of Association Executives (ASAE): ASAE Fellow (2022) DCA Live: Association Innovation Leader (2022) Trade Show news Network: Industry Support Award (2022) MeetingsNet: Changemaker (2022) Host bio: Danica Tormohlen An award-winning journalist who has covered the trade show industry since 1994, Danica Tormohlen is VP of Group Content, Meetings, Sports, Travel for Informa Connect. In her role, she oversees content for Trade Show News Network, Corporate Event News, BizBash and Connect's portfolio of in-person events. These leading media brands publish websites, newsletters, social media channels, video, podcasts and online and in-person programming for the trade show, corporate event, association meeting, experiential marketing and exhibition industries. Tormohlen currently serves as president of the Women in Exhibitions Network North America chapter. She has been a speaker and moderator at major industry events, including the TSNN Awards, IMEX, IAEE, SISO, UFI, ESCA, DI and Large Show Roundtable — to name a few. Keywords: CES, Kinsey Fabrizio, Consumer Technology Association, AI, trade shows, event industry, technology trends, advocacy, digital health, robotics 

Host Austin Jenkins sits down with pollster Stuart Elway on Washingtonian's perceptions over the past 5 decades.

Aging isn't something most of us like to think about, but it's something all of us will experience. And in D.C., older residents are more likely to face memory challenges like dementia, which occurs here at higher rates than in much of the country. But a new approach to elder care might offer a better path forward for how the city supports its aging population. Washington Post reporter Michael Brice-Saddler explores what aging in D.C. looks like today  and what it could become. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can text us or leave a voicemail at: (202) 642-2654. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this November 24th episode: District Bridges Nace Law Group Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Washingtonians will be paying even more for plastic bags next year. King County has passed a new budget proposal. A Democratic Congressman insinuated that Trump might have tempered with the Epstein files. // LongForm: GUEST: State Representive Lauren Davis on Democrats' push to reduce penalties for adults caught in child-sex stings. // Quick Hit: People are mad at singer Meghan Trainor for losing weight.

In our latest Hearing the Council episode, we get to know Ward 7's Wendell Felder. Elected in November of 2024, and serving since January, we tackle the obligatory biographical deep dive that Hearing the Council always undertakes with our newest Councilmembers. We learn about Councilmember Felder's origins as a fourth generation native Washingtonian, how running footraces in track led to political races for student government, and how initial setbacks in both school and District government informed his later successes. We discuss one key mentor in local government and business, plus how he followed childhood hydrant hijinks with an eventual seat on the DC Water board. And finally, as is traditional in our first interviews with Councilmembers, we have him rank his favorite desserts.

The Seattle Mayor race is looking much more decisive, an orca superpod came to Puget Sound, and many Washingtonians are still struggling from the government shutdown. It’s our daily roundup of top stories from the KUOW newsroom, with host Paige Browning. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Auburn freaks out after Border Patrol uses cameras to supposedly catch criminal illegal immigrants. There is new video of the arrest of the man who impersonated as a Bremerton police officer. King County shut down over a dozen unpermitted food vendors during Monday’s Seahawks game. // Weed use among young Washingtonians is more prevalent than ever. // The Left is losing its mind over Trump making some modest renovations to the White House.

Fox 13 has a very disingenuous story about the Big Beautifl Bill's effects on Washingtonians. A college student is outraged about her textbook labeling Christians white supremacists. Wisconsin Democrats handed out bracelets that read “Is he dead yet?” in what appears to be a reference to Trump. // LongForm: GUEST: Frank Swoboda with Corner Booth Media says he might move his company out of Washington state because of high taxes. // Quick Hit: Washington’s new ferry contract outsources jobs and delays relief for another five years. Rantz Exclusive: Fire fears force King County Metro to ground electric buses after battery recall. 

Interview with Antonia Tricarico. Antonia Tricarico is an incredible photographer who is working on releasing a new book Be My Rebel. "Be My Rebel is a photography book born from my belief that powerful images can shift perceptions, raise awareness, and spark empathy. This project captures the raw intensity and emotion of protest—from the quiet determination of a young climate activist to the unstoppable unity of a crowd marching for women's rights." Antonia Tricarico on Be My Rebel.  Link to kickstarter!  Be My Rebel Book Kickstarter  Antonia Tricarico was born in Potenza, in Italy's Basilicata region. At 16, she joined the Feminist Collective of Potenza. After graduating from high school, she enrolled in the Law School at La Sapienza University in Rome and became active in the Women's Health Collective in Trastevere. She worked with Paolo Bedini's AZ Music agency, where for nearly a decade she helped bring renowned musicians to Italy. In the 1990s, she was involved in Rome's Rights to Housing movement and supported squatting public buildings with and for immigrants, for their right to housing. In 1997, after moving to the United States, she began pursuing photography more seriously. In the past years, she has worked as an archivist for Pulitzer Prize–winning Washington Post photographer Lucian Perkins and collaborated with independent labels such as Tolotta Records, Dischord Records, Kill Rock Stars, and Youth Action Research. Her photographs are represented in both private and public collections, including the National Museum of American History at the Smithsonian Institution, the permanent exhibition and special collections archive of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Washington, DC (Punk and Go-Go music archives), the Michelle Smith Performing Arts Library at the University of Maryland,the DC History Center, and the Library of Congress. Her work has been exhibited both nationally and internationally. She is the author of three books: • Frame of Mind: Punk Photos and Essay from Washington, DC, and Beyond, 1997–2017 (Akashic Books, 2019) • The Inner Ear of Don Zientara: A Half Century of Recording in One of America's Most Innovative Studios, Through the Voices of Musicians (Akashic Books, 2023) - Oltre l'Influenza-Italian Novel-Sensibili alle Foglie Publisher-Rome,Italy 2023 Her work has appeared in Photo Review, Guitar World, Kerrang, All Music, Razorcake, Chicago Reader, The Oregonian, The Quietus, The Echo, Exclaim!, Fretboard Journal, Washington City Paper, and Washingtonian.   Antonia Tricarico website.

In this powerful episode of Medic2Medic, two remarkable survivors, Jim Hallett and John Storm, who both suffered sudden out-of-hospital cardiac arrests and live to tell their stories.Jim, a lifelong Washingtonian and respected community leader, and John, a retired IT executive and avid mountaineer, share their deeply personal journeys from the moment their hearts stopped to the moment they stood again. Both men survived thanks to the Whatcom County EMS System, early CPR, and the seamless teamwork between bystanders, first responders, and hospital staff.Jim and John remind us that behind every EMS call are real people, families, and communities, and that every trained responder, every AED, and every compassionate hand matters.https://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-309-jim-hallet-and-john-storm-against-all-odds-surviving-sudden-cardiac-arrest--68390154Medic2Medic is back, bringing authentic voices, untold stories, and the human side of Emergency Medical Services and beyond.

You're Not A Real Washingtonian Unless You Know DC's Ghosts How haunted is DC? Have you ever had particularly spooky paranormal experiences here? We haven't, but Katie Kirkpatrick with Nightly Spirit Ghost Tours HAS and she's here to share the DC stories that might just make you keep a light on tonight. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can text us or leave a voicemail at: (202) 642-2654. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this October 30th episode: United Healthcare Double Exposure Investigative Film Festival Public Welfare Foundation Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Thousands of people across South Puget Sound are still without power. Thousands of Washingtonians could soon lose SNAP benefits due to the government shutdown. Idaho is seeking to prevent people from changing their gender on their birth certificate. // Big Local: Kent car thieves fall asleep with drugs in plain view. A man was arrested in Bellevue after throwing a rock through the window of an Italian restaurant. The city of Mukilteo is considering selling a portion of its waterfront to spur economic development. // You Pick the Topic: MSNBC’s Lawrence O’Donnell went on an unhinged rant about CNN employing conservative commentator Scott Jennings.

In the 8 AM hour, Larry O’Connor and Julie Gunlock discussed: WMAL GUEST: DELEGATE TERRY KILGORE (Virginia House GOP Leader) on the Dems' Gerrymandering Session WASHINGTONIAN: Some DC Residents Are Actually Leaving the Country BREAKING: Truck Hauling ‘Aggressive’ Monkeys Carrying Hepatitis C, Herpes & COVID Overturns in Mississippi Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow Podcasts on Apple, Audible and Spotify Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @JGunlock, @PatricePinkfile, and @HeatherHunterDC Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Website: WMAL.com/OConnor-Company Episode: Tuesday, October 29, 2025 / 8 AM HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

King County Jail admits it illegally hired 38 non-citizens, refuses to terminate them. A restaurant in Seattle’s Eastlake neighborhood has been broken into 25 times since 2020. // Weed use among young Washingtonians is more prevalent than ever. // The European Parliament of all places is banning the use of words like “burger” and “sausage” when referring to plant-based products.

We're talking about the fate of the White House east wing, whether there's ever going to be Waymo in DC, and a very funny slapfight over the restaurant Millie's and one of its imitators. Plus, in a members-only fourth segment: Remember the shutdown? It's still ongoing. We have updates. If you're a City Cast DC Neighbor, you're invited to a private tour of one of the DMV's true hidden wonders, Fort DeRussy! It will be hosted by our CEO and lifelong Washingtonian, David Plotz. Interested? Email us here for more details.  Not a City Cast DC Neighbor but would love to be there? Join today! Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can text us or leave a voicemail at: (202) 642-2654. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this October 24th episode: National Center for Victims of Crime Nace Law Group Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Writer Dorothy Parker once said that the two most beautiful words in the English language are “check enclosed.” With things being so expensive in DC right now, maybe a little check in your mailbox is just what you need. Ike Allen of the Washingtonian explains how DC's unclaimed property unit could have money waiting for you.  Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can text us or leave a voicemail at: (202) 642-2654. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this October 20th episode: National Center for Victims of Crime Nace Law Group Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

In a few months, Washingtonians on Medicare could see additional hurdles when it comes to getting approval for their procedures and care. . That’s because the Trump Administration is exploring the use of prior authorizations to assess whether medical services are necessary for a patient. If it isn’t, the procedures may not be covered. Prior authorization is a common practice in the insurance industry but not in Medicare. The U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services says the tool will help weed out waste and fraud. And it says it will use AI to help make eligibility decisions. Washington is one of six states that will pilot the program, starting in January. GUEST: Darius Tahir - Correspondent for KFF News RELATED LINKS: AI Will Soon Have a Say in Approving or Denying Medicare Treatments Health Care AI reviews rolling out for Medicare in WA for some procedures WISeR (Wasteful and Inappropriate Service Reduction) Model Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fox 13 has a very disingenuous story about the Big Beautifl Bill's effects on Washingtonians. A college student is outraged about her textbook labeling Christians white supremacists. Wisconsin Democrats handed out bracelets that read “Is he dead yet?” in what appears to be a reference to Trump. // LongForm: GUEST: KIRO News Radio's Chris Sullivan on what to expect for weekend traffic. // Quick Hit: America is ditching EVs and the rest of the globe appears to be following suit.

(The Center Square) – A Seattle-based nonprofit focused on “harnessing political power and leadership among young Washingtonians” is busing people to Spokane next Friday to campaign for progressives. The Washington Bus organization is a 501(c)(4) that endorses candidates and transports young adults around the state to canvass in other communities. The Washington Bus Education Fund, an affiliated 501(c)(3), also runs a 10-week-long paid “boot camp” to drive “progressive change in sunny Seattle.” Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_9109bebf-a022-4db6-96b3-16e1aef652c0.html Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What happens when a woman and her friend takes a winding mountain pass home through the icy dusk of Washington's Blewett Pass — and locks eyes with a creature she was never meant to see? In this emotional and unsettling episode, we sit down with Brenda Burgett, a lifelong Washingtonian and author, who opens up about her chilling 1990s encounter with a massive, intelligent creature unlike anything she's ever known. What began as a routine drive through black ice quickly spiraled into a surreal, terrifying moment that erased memories, shook her beliefs, and opened doors into something deeper. You'll hear about her friend's desire to help “the man,” the shared amnesia, and how this one moment would unlock decades of buried spiritual experiences. With connections to Leavenworth and echoes of other paranormal encounters across the state, Brenda's story is a powerful reminder: sometimes Bigfoot finds you.

Rather than criticize the inexcusable actions of a Tacoma teacher, the city's newspaper is blaming conservatives for pointing it out. Black signature gatherer bewildered as woke white Washingtonians call him a “racist” and a “bigot.” Turns out the plastic bag ban is actually bad for the environment. Is there no low in American politics? 

Meet the illegal aliens accused of targeting a CBP helicopter with a laser in Portland. President Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced new standards as they attempt to get woke out of the military. // Democrats continue to lie about the state of Portland. How do Washingtonians feel about the idea of having troops deployed in Seattle? // President Trump announced a new deal with Pfizer to drop the prices of some prescription drugs as well as a new ‘TrumpRx’ website. Portland and Seattle are churning out woke doctors.

President Trump claims that DC restaurants are suddenly packed because his federal takeover made people feel safe enough to go out to dinner. But how is DC's restaurant industry really reacting to the takeover? The Washingtonian's Jessica Sidman is here to break down what it means for the city's dining scene. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. If you enjoyed today's interview with Backroom's Founder, Ethan Downs, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this September 22nd episode: Food & Friends - Move For Meals Library of Congress The Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University Folger Shakespeare Library Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Jim Walsh, chairman of the Washington State Republican Party, argues the new West Coast “alliance” of governors raises valid concerns about dubious vaccine mandates. He points to HB 1531, standing orders, and past mandates as reasons Washingtonians remain wary. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-west-coast-alliance-raises-thoughts-of-dubious-vaccine-mandates/ #Opinion #WashingtonState #JimWalsh #WAGOP #BobFerguson #TinaKotek #GavinNewsom #VaccineMandates #COVID #ImmunizationPolicy

What's the best burger in DC? Some folks at Washingtonian have tried almost all of them and Jessica Sidman is here to give us some highlights from their list of DC's best.  Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. If you enjoyed today's interview with District Bridges' Director of Storytelling and Marketing, Anna Claire, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this September 11th episode: Food & Friends - Move For Meals Washington Nationals Library of Congress The Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.

Senate Republican Leader John Braun breaks down Washington's labor policies—from public union influence to wage mandates—arguing for worker-first reforms rooted in conservative principles without the progressive spin. [TRANSCRIPT]   The post The Elephant in the Dome Podcast: Workers vs. Woke – Sen. John Braun on what Republicans really stand for when it comes to working Washingtonians appeared first on Senate Republican Caucus.

Chris Morton, the new CEO of the American Land Title Association (ALTA), shares his vision for the future of the title industry. With decades of experience in housing finance and policy advocacy, Chris discusses the regulatory challenges ahead, the evolving role of technology, and the critical importance of protecting property rights. From combating fraud to preparing for the FinCEN reporting rule, this episode delivers practical insights for title professionals navigating today's complex landscape.   What you'll learn from this episode How Chris Morton's background in housing and policy shapes his leadership at ALTA Key regulatory challenges ahead, including the FinCEN real estate reporting rule Why fraud prevention and seller impersonation risk are top industry priorities The role of AI and digitization in title operations and agent intelligence Latest on attorney opinion letters and what title agents need to know   Resources mentioned in this episode ALTA Title Action Network 2025 ALTA FinCEN Bootcamp 2025 ALTA EDge 2025 ALTA Advocacy Summit Internet Crime Complaint Center National Association of REALTORS® FHFA   About Chris MortonChris Morton is the Chief Executive Officer for the American Land Title Association (ALTA), the national trade association representing title insurance companies, title and settlement agents, independent abstracters, title searchers and real estate attorneys who protect real property owners and mortgage lenders against losses from defects in titles. Morton leads an organization focused on improving the skills and knowledge of providers in the real property transaction, effectively advocating for member concerns and standardizing products for industry use. Previously, Morton served as the Chief Advocacy Officer and Senior Vice President of Public Affairs for the association. A seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in the financial services arena, Morton has demonstrated success in numerous legislative and regulatory affairs leadership roles over his career. He has been recognized as a Top Lobbyist by The Hill newspaper and named as one of the 500 Most Influential People Shaping Policy by Washingtonian magazine.   Connect with Chris Website: ALTA LinkedIn: Chris Morton   Connect With UsLove what you're hearing? Don't miss an episode! Follow us on our social media channels and stay connected. Explore more on our website: www.alltechnational.com/podcast Stay updated with our newsletter: www.mochoumil.com Follow Mo on LinkedIn: Mo Choumil Stop waiting on underwriter emails or callbacks—TitleGPT.ai gives you instant, reliable answers to your title questions. Whether it's underwriting, compliance, or tricky closings, the information you need is just a click away. No more delays—work smarter, close faster. Try it now at www.TitleGPT.ai. Closing more deals starts with more appointments. At Alltech National Title, our inside sales team works behind the scenes to fill your pipeline, so you can focus on building relationships and closing business. No more cold calling—just real opportunities. Get started at AlltechNationalTitle.com. Extra hands without extra overhead—that's Safi Virtual. Our trained virtual assistants specialize in the title industry, handling admin work, client communication, and data entry so you can stay focused on closing deals. Scale smarter and work faster at SafiVirtual.com.

Stand Up is a daily podcast. I book,host,edit, post and promote new episodes with brilliant guests every day. This show is Ad free and fully supported by listeners like you! Please subscribe now for as little as 5$ and gain access to a community of over 750 awesome, curious, kind, funny, brilliant, generous souls Over the past thirty years, Governor Inslee has provided bold leadership at the local, state and federal levels that has demonstrated the powers of innovation and inspiration to move our communities forward. More recently, his leadership as the three-term governor of Washington State has led to unprecedented success in building a clean energy economy, fighting climate change, improving opportunities for working families and advancing progressive values of Washingtonians. Under Governor Inslee's leadership, Washington has consistently ranked as one of the best states for both working families and business growth. Washington's policies of constant innovation, openness to new ideas and a deep commitment to equity and inclusion are mutually supportive and demonstrably successful. Governor Inslee's leadership is deeply rooted in the values of Washington State. As a fifth-generation Washingtonian, who grew up in the Seattle area, he developed his environmental ethic hiking in the Cascade mountains and exploring tidepools with his parents. He worked his way through college operating bulldozers, married his high school sweetheart Trudi and graduated from Willamette Law School. He then established a successful law practice in the Central Washington town of Selah in 1976 where he and Trudi raised three sons and four acres of hay. After twelve years practicing trial law and prosecuting criminal cases, Governor Inslee's desire to make a difference was whetted by his co-chairing a campaign to build a new high school, which led him to serve in the Washington State House of Representatives for the 14th district, after an upset victory, one of several in his political career. Governor Inslee served in the U.S. House of Representatives representing Central Washington until his defeat in 1994, largely attributable to his vote to ban assault weapons. Following stints practicing law and serving as Director for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for the northwest, the Governor returned to Congress in 1999 representing the 1st District, becoming one of four people ever to represent two separate congressional districts. There he became notable as a leader of climate change issues and tech economic development matters and was a leading opponent of the Iraq war. During his term, he coauthored Apollo's Fire: Igniting America's Clean Energy Economy, a template for economic growth. Governor Inslee carried this vision into his unsuccessful but influential run for the presidency in 2019. His ideas became the basis of groundbreaking federal climate laws during the Biden administration. Throughout his three terms, Governor Inslee established Washington as a leading state for climate action and a beacon of progress: Created the Climate Commitment Act and successfully defeated an initiative to repeal it. Launched nation-leading policies related to 100% clean energy, clean buildings and clean transportation. The governor's climate efforts also support innovation through the launch of the Washington Clean Energy Fund, a Clean Energy Institute at the University of Washington, and the Institute for Northwest Futures at Washington State University. Promoted a more equal and just justice system. Governor Inslee placed a moratorium on Washington's death penalty, which was ultimately affirmed by the state Supreme Court due to its unequal and racially biased application, and it was subsequently struck from state law. He also enacted several justice system reforms such as the Marijuana Justice Initiative and Community Reinvestment Fund and has been recognized for his leadership on clemency and reentry. Led efforts to fully fund Washington's K-12 education system and a historic expansion of early learning. Led the transformation of Washington's behavioral health system with a significant expansion of community-based facilities, a new teaching hospital at the University of Washington and a new forensic hospital on the grounds of Western State Hospital. Defended access to reproductive health and gender-affirming care. Join us Monday and Thursday's at 8EST for our  Bi Weekly Happy Hour Hangout!  Pete on Blue Sky Pete on Threads Pete on Tik Tok Pete on YouTube  Pete on Twitter Pete On Instagram Pete Personal FB page Stand Up with Pete FB page All things Jon Carroll  Follow and Support Pete Coe Buy Ava's Art  Hire DJ Monzyk to build your website or help you with Marketing Gift a Subscription https://www.patreon.com/PeteDominick/gift

What It's Like to Be Face Blind in a Neurodiverse Relationship   Ever mistaken a stranger for your spouse? Journalist and author Sadie Dingfelder has—because she's face blind. In this episode of Your Neurodiverse Relationship, Sadie and her husband Steve share what it's like to navigate marriage when both partners are neurodivergent in different ways.   From ADHD to prosopagnosia (face blindness), this conversation is filled with relatable moments, honest insights, and laugh-out-loud stories. Sadie discusses how discovering her own neurodivergence led to writing her debut book, “Do I Know You?”, while Steve reflects on living with ADHD since childhood and what finally helped him understand how his brain works. Together, they talk with host Jodi Carlton about cognitive empathy, relationship conflict, and what it really takes to make a neurodiverse marriage thrive.   If you're in a neurodiverse relationship—or love someone who is—this episode offers validation, wisdom, and the reminder that being “on the same team” is everything.   00:00 – Welcome to Season Five 01:00 – “I Thought I Was Neurotypical”: Meet Sadie & Steve 04:40 – Mistaking a Stranger for Your Spouse?! Discovering Face Blindness 09:15 – How COVID Changed Everything in Their Marriage 13:50 – “We're Living in Different Realities”: Cognitive Empathy Explained 19:10 – ADHD Meds, Creativity & Finding What Actually Works 25:00 – The Secret to Making Neurodiverse Relationships Work   ✨ About Sadie Dingfelder & Steve Hay: Sadie Dingfelder is a science journalist with a sharp wit and a deep curiosity about hidden neurodiversity. In her debut book, “Do I Know You? A Faceblind Reporter's Journey into the Science of Sight, Memory, and Imagination”, she unpacks what it's like to live with prosopagnosia (face blindness) while taking readers on a fascinating tour of the brain's inner workings. A former reporter for the Washington Post Express, Sadie is known for blending humor and insight—whether she's reviewing every bathroom on the National Mall or playing a priceless Stradivarius at the Smithsonian. Her writing has appeared in The New Yorker, National Geographic, Washingtonian, and other major publications.   Steve Hay is an engineer and aspiring scientist who is currently developing an augmented reality art project that simulates prosopagnosia by using AI to subtly distort faces in real time. Before turning his focus to brain and perception research, Steve worked as a Navy nuclear engineer and later in the green energy sector, applying AI and machine learning to grid-scale energy storage. His work blends scientific insight, creative experimentation, and a knack for making the invisible visible.  

For Ty Hobson-Powell, being a child of Washington DC goes deeper than living with the United States Capital and the White House as a backdrop. It is not just that politics is in his bones and that he has worked in national campaigns and in District government to generate policy change for people and communities. What motivates his fight for justice is the unique experience of living in the seat of this nation's federal government while being one of 700,000 Washingtonians who raise families, work and build communities, all without statehood or full representation in Congress. In this episode of Power Station, Ty shares what his activism looks like now, his call for less apathy and more care for others and how his book, The Fire This Time memorializes his message, especially for young people of color about leadership, courage and using your voice with purpose and power. At a time when our nation's democratic principles and institutions are under assault and DC is under federal control this conversation brings, at least for me, urgency, clarity and a plan of action. Ty is building the world he wants his 4 year old daughter, who is his inspiration, to inherit.

Governor Ferguson continues to defy demands from the Trump Administration to end Washington’s “sanctuary state” policies. But lawmakers say there’s one place here where protections for immigrants are falling short: state prisons. That, says Tacoma state Representative Sharlett Mena, means the state isn’t doing everything it could to keep Washingtonians safe. According to reporting from the Washington State Standard, dozens of lawmakers are calling for the state Department of Corrections to change the way it interacts with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. That effort may see some headwinds, however. Governor Bob Ferguson and Attorney General Nick Brown both say they don’t see any need to alter state policy. Guests: Washington State Standard reporter Jake Goldstein-Street Related stories: Washington governor and AG stand by state prison notifications to ICE - Washington State Standard As DOJ threatens WA over sanctuary laws, state officials double down on protections - KUOW Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes.Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Ben Veghte, director the WA Cares Fund, a state-run entity that provides working Washingtonians a way to earn access to long-term care benefits that will be available to eligible individuals. when they need them. Ben shares his inspiring journey from studying capitalism and social justice in Germany to directing the Fund. He and Susan explore why integrating housing, healthcare, and community is essential for aging with dignity, and he highlights the influence of the Dutch model—which prioritizes person-centered care, affordable housing, and strong community supports. As a first-of-its-kind program, the WA Cares Fund will provide $36,500 toward long-term care needs, offering a critical resource for families navigating aging and caregiving. Veghte emphasizes the need for multi-sector planning and grassroots involvement to meet the challenges of the coming age wave. His message is clear: preparing for the future of long-term care requires policy innovation, community engagement, and collective advocacy. More information about the Fund here: https://wacaresfund.wa.gov  

Mayor Harrell wants new law to curb predatory homebuying, more Washingtonians are getting concealed carry permits, and Paul Allen's estate has sold the Portland Trail Blazers. It’s our daily roundup of top stories from the KUOW newsroom, with host Patricia Murphy. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it mean to advocate for taxpayer rights in an increasingly polarized political landscape? Can alliances between the left and right yield real reform in tax policy?In this episode of Associations Thrive, host Joanna Pineda interviews Pete Sepp, President of the National Taxpayers Union (NTU). Pete discusses:How NTU, founded in 1969, is a nonpartisan organization focused on simpler, fairer, lower taxes, less wasteful spending, and taxpayer rights.NTU's mission to fill gaps in the tax policy advocacy space, working on issues that other organizations ignore or overlook.Why NTU identified IRS reform as a key issue — and how they view it as a human rights concern, not just a policy issue.How NTU built a diverse coalition — including organizations like the ACLU and La Raza — to push for taxpayer rights reforms.NTU's creation of the Taxpayer Defense Center to pursue public interest litigation in precedent-setting tax cases.How the NTU Foundation's “Tax Basics” provides factual, accessible answers to common taxpayer questions.The internal practices that earned NTU a spot on Washingtonian's “Best Places to Work” list, including entrepreneurship and low internal politics.Pete's philosophy that association CEOs must focus on the “Four M's” — Money, Money, Money, and Money — to lead effectively.His success in working across ideological lines by reading opposing viewpoints, reaching out, and finding common ground.References:NTU WebsiteWhich States are Best for Remote Workers? 2025 Remote Obligations and Mobility (ROAM) Index - Foundation - National Taxpayers Unionhttps://www.ntu.org/foundation/project/taxpayer-defense-centerInside the One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Major Tax Provisions and Their Impact - Foundation - National Taxpayers Unionhttps://www.ntu.org/foundation/detail/ntuf-launches-cross-ideological-coalition-to-advise-on-irs-80-billion-budget-boost18 Great Places to Work in the DC Area

L.A. Mayor Karen Bass offers her advice for D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser about how she can handle and prepare Washingtonians for National Guard troops on the streets.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.

It’s been more than a month since President Trump signed his Big Beautiful Bill into law. There’s been a lot of conversation about how this law will affect things like Medicaid, the national debt and immigration enforcement. But this law may also affect the cost of energy for Washingtonians. Seattle Times climate reporter Conrad Swanson explains why. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today at 10 a.m., President Donald Trump is expected to announce that he will deploy federal forces to patrol the streets of Washington, D.C., in an attempt to fight crime and “immediately clear out the city's homeless population.” It comes as Trump has reportedly eyed a federal takeover of Washington in response to what he characterizes as “out of control crime” — even though statistics from law enforcement show that violent crime in the district has dropped substantially over the past two years. Is this an attempt by Trump to control the narrative? How seriously should Washingtonians take the threat of a takeover? And what does this mean for self-governance in D.C.? Playbook's Adam Wren and POLITICO senior Congress editor Mike DeBonis talk it through.

Today, we’re bringing you the best from the KUOW Newsroom… Transgender people in Washington’s state prisons are still fighting for better treatment, years after the Department of Corrections agreed to make changes. Now that Congress has cut funding for the federal food assistance program SNAP, hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians who use the program are trying to figure out what this means for them. And even after 50 years, Dungeons and Dragons is still growing in popularity, thanks to “actual play podcasts” like Dimension 20, which stopped by Climate Pledge Arena last month. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Washingtonian's Andrew Beaujon is here to chat about Trump's continued culture war on D.C. and his latest threats to take over the District, dolphins in the Potomac, and a segment sponsored by District Bridges about this August's best party. In our members-only fourth segment, we're talking about a new D.C. auditor's report regarding housing and getting folks back on their feet. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month.  If you enjoyed today's interview with District Bridges' Director of Storytelling and Marketing, Anna Claire, learn more here. Learn more about the sponsors of this August 8th episode: Overlook Maps Nace Law Group District Bridges Metropolitan Washington Restaurant Week Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Ed chats with Jason Walsh, Executive Director of the BlueGreen Alliance (BGA).Jason and his organization recently made headlines for opposing the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act—President Trump's sweeping piece of legislation passed this summer that rolls back many of the clean energy tax credits introduced by the Inflation Reduction Act. While a lot of the climate world focused on the emissions impacts, BGA came out swinging over what they saw as a quiet gutting of labour standards, domestic manufacturing momentum, and the link between public investment and good jobs.Jason and Ed discuss:How the bill reshapes the clean energy landscape Whether it really neuters domestic content rules Politics of climate and labour in an increasingly polarized U.S. And what political durability looks like for climate policy heading into 2026About Our Guest:Jason Walsh is the Executive Director of the BlueGreen Alliance (BGA). Named one of the Washington D.C.'s 500 Most Influential People by the Washingtonian, Walsh has more than twenty-five years of experience at state and federal levels in policy development and advocacy in a range of issue areas—including climate, clean energy, and economic and workforce development—and as a coalition organizer and manager.Walsh previously served in the Obama administration, as the Director of the Office of Strategic Programs in the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy and as a Senior Policy Advisor in the White House Domestic Policy Council, where he led Obama administration's efforts to align and scale up federal investments in workers and communities impacted by the shift away from coal in the power sector.Send us a text (if you'd like a response, please include your email)Produced by Amit Tandon & Bespoke Podcasts ___Energy vs Climate Podcastwww.energyvsclimate.com Contact us at info@energyvsclimate.com Bluesky | YouTube | LinkedIn | X/Twitter

KTTH is now Seattle Red. Senator Patty Murray is blasting Trump for the effects of tariffs on working class Washingtonians. Washington experienced the biggest loss in construction jobs in the United States. // A Trump supporter was thrown out of an MLS soccer match for wearing a MAGA hat. Trump has weighed in on the Sydney Sweeney jeans “controversy.” ‘King of the Hill’ has returned with a brand new season. // Many Washington colleges and universities are struggling financially.

Artist and curator Carter Wynne joins the podcast. In this episode, Wynne shares how growing up in Washington, DC, and coming from a line of organizers shaped her commitment to social justice and art. Wynne talks about being a self-taught painter, exploring themes of inequality, and resistance. Wynne reflects on the process of using art to process deep emotions and to challenge who gets to shape stories—both in her own life and in the wider world. Wynne also talks about being a fourth-generation Washingtonian and why standing up for others is central to her art.Wynne talks about sharing her story, handling others' opinions, and establishing authentic connections.Topics Covered:How family and DC roots inspire Carter's art and activismUsing self-taught painting to explore social justice and personal historyTurning emotions and lived experience into creative fuelThe importance of narrative and resisting outside pressure to change your storyBalancing roles as artist, organizer, advocate, and curatorReflections on sisterhood, identity, and the value of curiosityReady to connect with Wynne's world? Visit www.carterwynne.com or follow @freckled_blue on Instagram to see her art and stay up to date. Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis. Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcast The Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Tens of thousands of Washingtonians used to live in alleys. Back in the old days, they were thought of as slum dwellings. But could alley homes make a comeback — and maybe even go upscale? Mark Lawrence and Elizabeth Emerson have an architecture firm that specializes in turning yesterday's garages into tomorrow's boutique apartments; they're here to explain what it would look for residents like if DC opened up alley dwellings.  Check out our episode on the history of DC's alleys here. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this July 30th episode: Framebridge Overlook Maps Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Life is about to get more expensive for Washingtonians as a bunch of new laws passed by Democrats went into effect. A Seattle man charged in a hit-and-run that killed a woman admitted to being heavily intoxicated. Polling for Democrats is really bad. // President Trump scored a major victory with a historic trade deal with the EU over the weekend. Trump also stopped yet another war. This time, between Thailand and Cambodia. // Vegas tourism is struggling and people aren’t tipping anymore.

This week's episode features Preston's conversation with Dr. David Gens, who is best known as the trauma surgeon who treated Ronald Reagan after he was shot in 1981. Dr. Gens remains an attending surgeon at Shock Trauma and is also one of the most influential trauma resident educators worldwide.[10:25] Residue, Acute Stress, & Long-term Stress - Dr. Gens gives his experience with managing stress and residue. "I slept in the dialysis unit, and it finally dawned on me - this is an international event." [17:25] Working with the First Family in the aftermath of the shooting[31:40] Tacit Knowledge Transfer - Dr. Gens covers how he knows a learner is gaining or has gained tacit knowledge and what instructions he gives to support them in the moment. Dr. Gens is a respected leader who has made significant improvements in trauma and critical care medicine, ultimately enhancing the lives of many patients. He's known for his commitment to top-notch patient care, considerable research, and thorough training of future trauma experts. His teaching covers a wide range of crucial topics, from basic anatomy to the full scope of trauma patient evaluation and treatment.Want to learn more about Dr. Gens? Read the Washingtonian's minute-by-minute account of the actions after President Reagan was shot on March 30, 1981. Watch a video tribute from MedSchool Maryland Productions. The video, featuring narration by Dr. Thomas Scalea, includes praise from faculty, students, and colleagues.

In the aftermath of last weekend’s protests, Trump is having ICE put more focus on deporatations in blue cities. One of the doctors removed from the CDC’s vaccine panel by RFK Jr. was a Washingtonian. A tourist in Italy smashed a valuable piece of artwork at a museum. // LongForm: GUEST: Brandi Kruse was viciously attacked by Antifa thugs in Tukwila. // Quick Hit: Terry Moran has spoken out about the social media post that got him fired from ABC.

My interview with Randi starts at 25 mins Stand Up is a daily podcast that I book,host,edit, post and promote new episodes with brilliant guests every day. Please subscribe now for as little as 5$ and gain access to a community of over 700 awesome, curious, kind, funny, brilliant, generous souls Check out StandUpwithPete.com to learn more RANDI WEINGARTEN is president of the 1.8 million-member AFT, which represents teachers; paraprofessionals and school-related personnel; higher education faculty and staff; nurses and other healthcare professionals; local, state and federal government employees; and early childhood educators. The AFT is dedicated to the belief that every person in America deserves the freedom to thrive, fueled by opportunity, justice and a voice in our democracy. This freedom is achieved through an economy that works for all, including the ability to form a union; great public schools and affordable higher education; healthcare as a right; retirement security; the right to vote and civil rights; a vibrant democracy; and safe, welcoming and healthy environments and communities. The AFT and its members advance these principles through community engagement, organizing, collective bargaining and political activism, and especially through members' work—we care, fight, show up and vote. Prior to her election as AFT president in 2008, Weingarten served for 11 years as president of the United Federation of Teachers, AFT Local 2, representing approximately 200,000 educators in the New York City public school system, as well as home child care providers and other workers in health, law and education. Weingarten is the recipient of many commendations; she was included in Washingtonian's 2021 Washington's Most Influential People, City & State New York's 2021 New York City Labor Power 100, and Washington Life's 2018 Power 100 list of prominent leaders, and in 2017 received the Roosevelt Institute's FDR Distinguished Public Service Award. In 2013, the New York Observer named Weingarten one of the most influential New Yorkers of the past 25 years. Weingarten has led the AFT's efforts to strengthen public education for all children and to address the crisis in the teaching profession caused by deep disinvestment and the deprofessionalization of teaching. Through the AFT's Fund Our Future campaign, AFT members and leaders throughout the country are fighting for adequate investment in public education. Parents and many others have joined the AFT's efforts to end the overuse and misuse of standardized tests, and to fix—not close—struggling schools, something Weingarten has advocated since her involvement in the creation of New York City's Chancellor's District, which dramatically improved achievement in what had been some of the city's lowest-performing schools. Weingarten has launched major efforts to place real education reform high on the nation's and her union's agendas. She created the AFT Innovation Fund, a groundbreaking initiative to support sustainable, innovative and collaborative education reform projects developed by members and their local unions. At Weingarten's direction, the AFT developed a model to transform teacher evaluations from a way of simply rating teachers to a tool for continuous improvement and feedback. This model is used to align tenure and due process, so that tenure serves as a guarantee of fairness, not of a job for life. Weingarten led an AFT committee that called for all prospective teachers to meet a high entry standard—as in medicine or law—so that they're prepared from the day they enter the classroom. Weingarten oversaw the development of the AFT's Quality Education Agenda, which advocates for reforms grounded in evidence, equity, scalability and sustainability. She promotes what she calls “solution-driven unionism”—an approach to collective bargaining and collective action that unites the interests of union members and those they serve in the pursuit of solutions that benefit students, schools and communities. Under Weingarten's leadership, the AFT continues to grow and expand its voice as a union of professionals. Nationwide, the AFT is the second-largest union of nurses and other health professionals and the largest higher education union, representing 230,000 higher education faculty, professional staff and graduate employees. Weingarten helped source millions of dollars of personal protective equipment for nurses and health professionals experiencing shortages as they served on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic. Weingarten is an advocate for a New Deal for Higher Education, a campaign calling for substantial federal investment in higher education that would prioritize teaching, research and student supports; provide sustainable careers with professional voice for all faculty and staff; allow all students to attend regardless of ability to pay; create academic environments free of racism and other forms of bigotry; and cancel student debt. The AFT provides our members tools and information they can use to manage their federal student loan debt, including having that debt forgiven, while advocating for solutions to the escalating cost of higher education, predatory loan practices, and terrible loan servicing that is holding people back. The AFT and a broad array of parent and community partners across the country have collaborated on events to advance a community- and educator-driven agenda for public school reform. Weingarten spearheaded the development of Share My Lesson, the United States' largest free collection of lesson plans, classroom activities, and teaching strategies and resources created by educators, for educators—all at no cost. The AFT has a long-standing partnership with First Book, which has provided 5 million free and reduced-price books to children. Weingarten and the AFT were asked to lead a partnership to transform McDowell County, W.Va., one of the poorest counties in the United States. The AFT has assembled more than 100 partners not only to improve the quality of education provided to children in the county, but to focus on jobs, transportation, recreation, housing, healthcare and social services. Weingarten believes the rural way of life is worth fighting for, and the AFT's experience in McDowell County informs the work Weingarten is advancing to help rural communities thrive—through education, healthcare and economic opportunities. The AFT supports the strategic establishment of 25,000 community schools where students and families can access tailored health services and social services in one place, and marginalized communities can have access to services and support. Weingarten views this goal as especially vital to help children, families and communities recover from the wide-ranging impacts of the coronavirus pandemic and ensuing recession. When the COVID-19 crisis hit, the AFT worked with scientists and health professionals to develop a blueprint for reopening schools. The AFT continues to advocate for the funding and necessary testing and safety protocols to ensure in-person learning is safe.  During the Trump administration, Weingarten led the AFT's efforts to oppose Trump and Betsy DeVos' fervent attempts to defund and destabilize public education and to stand up to the administration's racist policies and attacks on facts and democracy. In 2012-13, Weingarten served on an education reform commission convened by New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, which made a series of recommendations to improve teaching and learning. She was appointed to the Equity and Excellence Commission, a federal advisory committee chartered by Congress to examine and make recommendations concerning the disparities in educational opportunities that give rise to the achievement gap. For 10 years, while president of the UFT, Weingarten chaired New York City's Municipal Labor Committee, an umbrella organization for the city's 100-plus public sector unions, including those representing higher education and other public service employees. As chair of the MLC, she coordinated labor negotiations and bargaining for benefits on behalf of the MLC unions' 365,000 members. From 1986 to 1998, Weingarten served as counsel to UFT President Sandra Feldman, taking a lead role in contract negotiations and enforcement, and in lawsuits in which the union fought for adequate school funding and building conditions. A teacher of history at Clara Barton High School in Brooklyn's Crown Heights neighborhood from 1991 to 1997, Weingarten helped her students win several state and national awards debating constitutional issues. Elected as the local union's assistant secretary in 1995 and as treasurer two years later, she became UFT president after Feldman became president of the AFT. Weingarten was elected to her first full term as UFT president in 1998 and was re-elected three times. Weingarten's column “What Matters Most” appears in the New York Times' Sunday Review the third Sunday of each month. You can follow her on Twitter at @rweingarten (Twitter.com/rweingarten) and on Facebook (Facebook.com/randi.weingarten.9). Weingarten holds degrees from Cornell University's School of Industrial and Labor Relations and the Cardozo School of Law. She worked as a lawyer for the Wall Street firm of Stroock & Stroock & Lavan from 1983 to 1986. She is an active member of the Democratic National Committee and numerous professional, civic and philanthropic organizations. Born in 1957 and raised in Rockland County, N.Y., Weingarten now resides in the Inwood neighborhood of New York City. Join us Monday's and Thursday's at 8EST for our Bi-Weekly Happy Hour Hangout!  Pete on Blue Sky Pete on Threads Pete on Tik Tok Pete on YouTube  Pete on Twitter Pete On Instagram Pete Personal FB page Stand Up with Pete FB page All things Jon Carroll  Follow and Support Pete Coe Buy Ava's Art  Hire DJ Monzyk to build your website or help you with Marketing