Claim OwnershipMain Street Matters
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Main Street Matters with Elaine Parker and Alfredo Ortiz explores the intersection of small business and government policy. With more than 90 million Americans either owning or depending on small business for their household income, policies like taxes, regulations, and access to credit have a huge effect on the American Dream. Elaine and Alfredo talk with small business owners, government officials and office holders, and experts about everything from education to the labor market on this interesting and entertaining podcast.
275 Episodes
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In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and Jonathan Williams discuss the latest Rich States, Poor States report, highlighting the economic successes of states like Utah and the challenges faced by states at the bottom of the rankings. They delve into the importance of fiscal responsibility, the need for pension reform, and the impact of government spending on state economies. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for states to compete for businesses and jobs while addressing the criticisms of their rankings and the broader implications of federal spending policies. Check and see how your state performed HERE: https://www.richstatespoorstates.org/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker speaks with Guy Berkebile, founder of Guy Chemical Company, about the significant impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on small businesses. They discuss Berkebile's entrepreneurial journey, the challenges he faced, and how tax policies have enabled him to invest in his company and community. The conversation also touches on the importance of retaining youth in small towns, the implications of tariffs and trade policies, and the future of American manufacturing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and Jeremiah Poff of the Washington Examiner discuss the challenges faced by millennials and Gen Z in achieving home ownership and building wealth. They explore the economic shifts from a production-driven economy to a consumption-driven one, the impact of inflation on housing prices, and the role of student debt in economic mobility. The conversation highlights the importance of local economic drivers and corporate responsibility in creating sustainable communities. They also address the need for effective messaging of economic policies to connect with everyday Americans. Read Jeremiah's work at the Washington ExaminerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker speaks with Michele Steeb, founder of the Free Up Foundation, about the ongoing homeless crisis in America. They discuss the impact of homelessness on communities, the failures of past policies, and the importance of a human-first approach to addressing the issue. Michele shares insights from her experience running a shelter for homeless women and children and emphasizes the need for mental health and addiction treatment as part of a comprehensive solution. The conversation also touches on the economic implications of homelessness and the role of community involvement in creating effective solutions. Learn more about Michele & Purchase her book HERE | https://www.michelesteeb.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, host Elaine Parker sits down with Erika Donalds of the America First Policy Institute to examine the future of education in America. The conversation explores how artificial intelligence in education can personalize learning, support teachers, and help students recover from COVID-era learning loss. They discuss innovative teaching methods, the role of educators in an AI-driven classroom, and practical solutions to close learning gaps. Learn more about AFPI | https://www.americafirstpolicy.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and Campus Reform's Emily Sturge break down the changing landscape of higher education and what it means for students and families. They discuss how to evaluate college options, the real cost of student debt, and whether today’s degree programs deliver long-term value. The conversation also explores affordable alternatives to traditional four-year colleges—including community colleges and trade schools—and examines the role government policies play in shaping education costs and outcomes. A must-listen for anyone navigating college decisions or concerned about the future of higher education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker sits down with financial expert and author Erik Weir to break down the growing challenges facing American workers as they try to save for retirement. From inflation eroding purchasing power to the widening gap between high earners and middle- and lower-income households, they unpack the economic forces making financial security harder to achieve. Erik explains the most common 401k mistakes, how Federal Reserve policies are shaping retirement outcomes, and what workers can do now to strengthen their long-term financial position. He also outlines retirement plan options for small businesses, offers his economic outlook heading into 2026, and shares actionable insights from his new book, Who’s Eating Your Pie? Whether you're a business owner, a saver, or someone feeling the pressure of today’s economy, this episode delivers practical strategies to help you protect—and grow—your financial future. Purchase Erik's Book HERE | https://www.amazon.com/Whos-Eating-Your-Pie-Essential/dp/1637630557See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and Alfredo Ortiz sit down with former Congressman Dr. Tom Price to break down the growing healthcare crisis facing small businesses. They discuss skyrocketing health insurance premiums, the promise of association health plans, the powerful role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), and why Congress must shift its focus from political gamesmanship to real solutions. Dr. Price shares his insider perspective on how market-driven healthcare reforms can lower costs, expand access, and give small business owners the relief they need.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and National Taxpayers Union EVP, Brandon Arnold, break down the major migration shift happening across America as taxpayers leave high-tax states for lower-tax Southern destinations. They examine the economic forces driving this trend, from costly tax burdens and strained housing markets to the impact of the SALT deduction and how businesses respond with strategic relocations. The conversation also explores what these patterns mean for the future of blue states, competitiveness, and the national economic landscape. Learn more HERE | https://www.ntu.org/foundation/detail/report-high-tax-states-losing-residents-at-the-fastest-ratesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Elaine Parker and Eric Eggers break down the real causes behind America’s worsening housing crisis and debate the controversial push for 50-year mortgages as a solution. They explore the historical roots of the affordability problem, how environmental and zoning regulations restrict new housing supply, and why a growing number of Americans now view long-term debt and delayed homeownership as normal. The discussion also tackles the impact of immigration, regulatory barriers, and entrenched special interests on rising home prices. Elaine and Eric go deeper into the economic consequences of sky-high housing costs and highlight innovative policy ideas that could expand access to homeownership for working families. If you’re looking to understand the future of the housing market, the debate over mortgage reform, or how the U.S. can rebuild a path to the American Dream, this episode offers a clear and compelling breakdown.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker sits down with Julio Gonzalez to discuss how IRS reform could fix a broken system, reduce audit fear, and restore fairness to Main Street. They also explore: The real impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, How Engineered Tax Services supports small business owners, & What bipartisan reforms could rebuild trust in the tax code. Text "Why" to 26786 to get a FREE copy of Julio's NEW Book "Why Billionaires Love The Tax Code: Follow the IRS's Lead to Build Wealth" #IRSReform #SmallBusiness #TaxCode #MainStreetMattersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and EJ Antoni deliver a deep dive into America’s economic outlook—breaking down the latest job numbers, shifting inflation metrics, and the growing affordability crisis impacting families nationwide. They examine how Federal Reserve policy continues to influence interest rates, long-term mortgages, and overall market stability, while highlighting the urgent need to expand the nation’s housing supply. The discussion also covers falling consumer sentiment, expectations for holiday spending, and what these trends signal for the economy in 2025.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Bruce De Torres breaks down the myths surrounding federal support for small businesses and the real impact of the Small Business Administration. He reveals how only a tiny fraction of small businesses ever receive SBA-backed loans—despite the narrative pushed in politics and the media. De Torres calls for a closer look at the numbers and a serious rethink of how government programs are evaluated when it comes to helping America’s entrepreneurs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker sits down with Patrick Hedger to break down the escalating AI competition between the United States and China—and what it means for America’s economic future. They explore how AI is reshaping industries, why workforce training is essential for maintaining a competitive edge, and how public-private partnerships can accelerate innovation. Hedger also clears up common misconceptions in Congress about tech policy and emphasizes the importance of protecting parental controls as technology rapidly evolves. Learn more HERE | https://netchoice.org/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Jordan Bruneau sits down with economist David Bahnsen to break down the real economic impact of the recent government shutdown and what the latest off-year election results signal for the country. They explore the growing healthcare crisis, persistent labor shortages, and the cultural shifts influencing workforce participation—particularly among men. Bahnsen outlines the biggest priorities for conservatives in the year ahead, emphasizing the need to restore economic mobility, strengthen personal responsibility, and confront the deeper societal issues driving America’s long-term challenges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Jordan Bruneau sits down with America First Policy Institute's Jill Homan to unpack the Supreme Court case over President Trump’s tariffs—and what its outcome could mean for American workers, small businesses, and the broader economy. They explore the connection between trade policy, the opioid crisis, and America’s reliance on foreign manufacturing. Jill highlights how restoring a production-based economy and investing in workforce development can drive job creation, while also addressing small business concerns over rising input costs. The discussion also examines the legal implications of presidential emergency powers and their lasting impact on U.S. trade negotiations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and Breitbart’s John Carney break down the ongoing government shutdown and what it means for everyday Americans. They examine how stalled funding affects healthcare subsidies, inflation, and consumer spending—and how voters are judging both parties’ handling of the economy. The conversation also explores the growing link between pop culture and economic messaging, revealing why communication and perception matter as much as policy in today’s political climate. Subscribe to Breitbart Business DigestSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and the Washington Examiner's Rachel Schilke break down the real-world impact of the government shutdown on small businesses nationwide. They discuss how delayed federal loans, halted contracts, and economic uncertainty are straining local communities and entrepreneurs. The conversation also explores the political gridlock in Washington, its ripple effects on Main Street, and why bipartisan action is urgently needed to protect America’s small business economy. Read Rachel's Work HERE | https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/author/rachel-schilke/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, host Elaine Parker sits down with Rich Gandhi, a New Jersey hotel owner and small business advocate, to discuss how the federal government shutdown is devastating small businesses across the state. Gandhi reveals how his hospitality business has suffered a 30% drop in revenue, forcing difficult decisions like layoffs and cost cuts. The conversation explores the real economic toll of the shutdown, the New Jersey governor’s race, and the urgent need for small business reforms—from lowering taxes to tackling frivolous lawsuits and skyrocketing insurance costs. Tune in to hear how entrepreneurs like Rich Gandhi are fighting to keep Main Street businesses alive amid government inaction. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and Tommy Aiello dive into the biggest economic challenges facing America’s small businesses. They break down how the government shutdown, rising healthcare costs, and new tariffs on medical products are impacting Main Street. The conversation also covers inflation, trade policy, and the Federal Reserve’s decisions—and what they mean for entrepreneurs and job creators. Parker and Aiello discuss solutions to strengthen small business growth, reduce healthcare burdens, and restore transparency in Washington.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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