SPPI-TV

In this special episode of SPPI-TV, Southwest Public Policy Institute President Patrick M. Brenner joins Brandon Vogt on News Radio KKOB to discuss SPPI’s latest report, Swipe Right: How Comparison Shopping Tools and Lead Generators Revolutionize Consumer Access to Products and Services.Together, they examine how platforms like NerdWallet and Credit Karma provide real value to consumers by streamlining access to credit, particularly for those underserved by traditional banking. Patrick walks through the personal experience that inspired the report, highlights the growing threat of federal regulatory overreach, and makes the case for preserving the freedom to choose in a rapidly evolving financial marketplace.This is a fast-paced, insightful conversation about consumer empowerment, digital innovation, and the future of fintech.Don't miss this episode if you're concerned about rising regulation and shrinking financial options.Relevant links:https://southwestpolicy.com/new-mexico-agency-ordered-to-pay-30k-after-losing-transparency-lawsuit/https://www.abqjournal.com/news/article_b6cdc102-680d-4ac9-8495-10bacb5ac4ec.htmlhttps://southwestpolicy.com/albuquerque-journal-covers-sppis-legal-victory-in-public-records-lawsuit/https://www.newsradiokkob.com/brandon-vogt/https://omny.fm/shows/bv-today/consumer-benefit⁠https://southwestpolicy.com/report-swipe-right/⁠⁠https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/credit-card-rewards-are-about-vanish-guess-whos-blame⁠⁠https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/products-credit-karma-nerdwallet-benefit-consumers-not-harm-them-report⁠⁠https://southwestpolicy.com/⁠⁠https://donate.southwestpolicy.com/

In this special episode of SPPI-TV, Southwest Public Policy Institute President Patrick M. Brenner joins Stacy Washington on SOTR Nights to discuss SPPI’s groundbreaking report, Swipe Right: How Comparison Shopping Tools and Lead Generators Revolutionize Consumer Access to Products and Services.They explore how digital platforms like Credit Karma and NerdWallet empower everyday Americans—especially those with limited credit access—by expanding financial choices and increasing transparency. Patrick shares his personal story, outlines the threats posed by federal overreach from the CFPB and FCC, and explains why preserving consumer-driven innovation is essential for economic liberty.If you care about free markets, personal responsibility, and fighting back against bureaucratic control, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Relevant links:https://www.stacyontheright.com/2025/05/sotr-nights-on-sirius-05-13-25/https://southwestpolicy.com/report-swipe-right/https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/credit-card-rewards-are-about-vanish-guess-whos-blamehttps://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/products-credit-karma-nerdwallet-benefit-consumers-not-harm-them-reporthttps://southwestpolicy.com/https://donate.southwestpolicy.com/

Join us for an enlightening episode of SPPI-TV as we explore the world of electricity through the lens of history, current practices, and the road ahead. Hosted by Patrick M. Brenner, President of Southwest Public Policy Institute, and D. Dowd Muska, Vice President of Research, this episode welcomes Kenny Stein, Vice President for Policy at the Institute for Energy Research (IER). In this episode, we'll delve into IER's recent report released on February 15, 2023, which provides a critical examination of restricting domestic oil and natural gas production in developed countries. It's a complex issue that calls into question the very methods we've employed to protect our environment. The report unveils a series of contradictions and complexities: A well-intentioned political movement aimed at halting oil and gas production in North America and Europe seems to have backfired, failing to eliminate the demand in developed nations; This movement inadvertently shifts production to countries with lower or negligible environmental standards, creating a net negative environmental impact; The U.S., with the highest environmental standards among major producers, faces a dilemma: Replacing domestic production with foreign supply would lead to overwhelmingly negative tradeoffs; With environmental scores 23.6% and 24.5% lower for the 20 largest non-U.S. oil and natural gas producers, the gap between ideals and reality is stark; Surprisingly, U.S. oil and gas production has shown that growth and environmental protection aren't mutually exclusive; emissions have decreased over the past 40 years despite increased production. Tune in as we discuss these paradoxes and what they mean for the future of electricity. Is the current approach to environmental protection misguided? What can be done to align our goals with tangible outcomes? Don't miss this thought-provoking episode, as we navigate the past, scrutinize the present, and envision a future where electricity production aligns more closely with our global environmental aspirations. Relevant links: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWfOhReP96s https://www.instituteforenergyresearch.org/international-issues/ier-report-shows-restricting-domestic-oil-and-natural-gas-production-leads-to-negative-environmental-outcomes/ https://southwestpolicy.com/report-a-bright-shining-disappointment/ https://southwestpolicy.com/poll-7-of-10-new-mexicans-prefer-affordable-and-reliable-energy/ https://www.instituteforenergyresearch.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-stein-a514899/ https://southwestpolicy.com/ https://donate.southwestpolicy.com/

In the latest episode of SPPI-TV, we delve into the fascinating world of short-term rentals, Airbnb, and the implications they hold for the future of property ownership in the American Southwest. Our esteemed guest, Carl Vidal, an entrepreneur and realtor at Irvie Homes powered by Realty One of New Mexico, will join our hosts, Patrick M. Brenner, President of SPPI, and D. Dowd Muska, Vice President of Research of SPPI, for an insightful and engaging discussion. The episode commences with Carl sharing a personal experience that sheds light on the challenges faced by small businesses in New Mexico. Drawing on his own encounters as a short-term rental property owner, Carl narrates a recent setback involving permit rejections from the city of Albuquerque. Despite meticulously submitting laser-measured floor plans and valid business licenses for each of his properties, the permits were denied, seemingly contradicting the previous year's approvals. Carl raises concerns about potential retaliation for voicing support and organizing for short-term rentals at the city council, reflecting on the bureaucratic hurdles and red tape encountered along the way. Throughout the conversation, our guests and hosts explore the broader implications of such experiences for entrepreneurs, small businesses, and the future of property ownership in the region. They delve into the complexities of regulations and licensing processes that impact the short-term rental industry and discuss the contrasting business-friendly environments of neighboring states. As the discussion unfolds, the episode examines the rising popularity of short-term rentals facilitated by platforms like Airbnb and the effects on local housing markets, property values, and community dynamics. The panelists also analyze the potential benefits and drawbacks of short-term rentals from various perspectives, including economic, social, and legislative angles. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of property ownership, the challenges faced by small businesses in the region, and the role of public policy in shaping the future of short-term rentals in the American Southwest. Relevant links: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mc5zPcNce9Y https://irviehomes.com/ https://donate.southwestpolicy.com/ https://southwestpolicy.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlvidal/

Tune in to a riveting and insightful special episode of SPPI-TV, where we delve deep into the intricate world of public policy with an exclusive interview featuring none other than Patrick M. Brenner, President of the Southwest Public Policy Institute. Joining forces with Tim Young from the David Webb Show on Sirius XM Patriot Conservative Talk Channel 125, this power-packed episode is not to be missed! Patrick M. Brenner and Tim Young leave no stone unturned as they embark on a compelling discussion centered around the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau (CFPB). Unfolding the aftermath of a massive data breach that tragically compromised the privacy of over 250,000 Americans, they shed light on the implications, repercussions, and urgent need for stronger safeguards in the digital age. SiriusXM Patriot is your home for comprehensive conservative viewpoints, hard-hitting interviews, and thought-provoking commentary. Join the conversation with Breitbart News, David Webb, Andrew Wilkow, Sean Hannity, Mark Levin, Stacy Washington, and more. Relevant reading: https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/hit-brakes-elizabeth-warrens-beleaguered-bureaucracy https://www.siriusxm.com/channels/siriusxm-patriot https://donate.southwestpolicy.com https://southwestpolicy.com

In the latest episode of SPPI-TV, join us for a thought-provoking discussion on one of the most debated topics in public policy: the minimum wage. Our guest, Rebekah Paxton, Director of Research and State Coalitions at the Employment Policies Institute, brings her expertise to shed light on this critical issue. Hosted by D. Dowd Muska, Vice President of Research at SPPI, and Patrick Brenner, President at SPPI, this episode promises to offer deep insights and explore various perspectives. The episode kicks off by delving into the origin and historical context of the minimum wage, both at the federal and state levels. Our experts provide an overview of the data, presenting a comprehensive picture of the impact on individuals affected by the minimum wage, the profile of typical minimum wage earners, and the implications for businesses of different sizes and sectors. Drawing from extensive research, the discussion highlights surprising points of agreement, even among some on the left, regarding the effects of the minimum wage. Notably, our experts reference a classic 1987 New York Times editorial that reinforces the consensus on certain aspects. With a focus on Nevada, a state with the highest unemployment rate in the nation, the conversation explores the potential consequences of the recent minimum wage hike. By examining local minimum wage policies in places such as West Hollywood and Santa Fe, the episode reveals the varying approaches and their impact on businesses and local economies. Moving beyond theoretical debates, our experts examine the real-time effects of the minimum wage on the economy. They analyze the implications for labor force participation, inflationary pressures, and other economic indicators both in the present and in the months to come. In a compelling segment, the episode dares to imagine a "minimum wage-free" America, exploring what such a scenario would look like. By considering alternative approaches to wage regulation, our guests offer valuable insights into the potential consequences and benefits. Relevant reading: https://southwestpolicy.com/ https://donate.southwestpolicy.com/ https://epionline.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebekah-paxton-0250a2109/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFUqxwv9Sog

In the latest episode of SPPI-TV, titled "What's a Microschool?", host Patrick Brenner sits down with special guest Don Soifer, the cofounder and CEO of the National Microschooling Center. Join them as they delve into the fascinating world of microschools and explore their potential to revolutionize education. Don Soifer is a visionary leader who has dedicated his career to transforming education through innovative approaches. As the CEO of the National Microschooling Center, a groundbreaking nonprofit organization, Soifer has been instrumental in empowering small learning environments to become dynamic and diverse local communities that unlock the full transformative potential of education. With a rich background in education and public policy, Soifer brings a wealth of experience to the conversation. He founded Nevada Action for School Options in 2018, a nonprofit that champions the growth of high-quality, personalized educational opportunities for all learners in Nevada, regardless of the educational sector. Soifer's commitment to innovation and his role as a charter school authorizer has resulted in an impressive track record in the sector, serving on the Nevada State Public Charter School Authority and the District of Columbia Public Charter School Board. As a Pahara-Aspen Education Fellow and a co-founder of the Lexington Institute, one of the nation's leading public policy think tanks, Soifer has demonstrated his expertise in education policy and research. He has authored numerous influential papers and articles and has advised government officials at all levels on enacting evidence-based policy changes. Tune in to this episode of SPPI-TV to learn more about microschools, their benefits, and the transformative potential they hold for the future of education. Join Patrick Brenner and Don Soifer as they shed light on this innovative approach and discuss how it can shape the educational landscape in profound ways. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation with a true trailblazer in the field of education. Relevant links: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5J-SwtIZEo https://microschoolingcenter.org/ https://donate.southwestpolicy.com/ https://southwestpolicy.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-soifer-012125a1/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-soifer-57820713b/

In this episode, hosts Patrick M. Brenner and D. Dowd Muska are joined by special guest Shawn Peterson, President of Catholic Education Partners. Together, they delve into the hotly debated topic of universal school choice. Join us as we explore the potential benefits and challenges of implementing universal school choice policies. Shawn Peterson brings his wealth of experience and expertise in advocating for parental choice in education, having worked on legislative and policy issues for over two decades. As an influential figure in the field, Shawn shares insights from his role at Catholic Education Partners and his involvement with various education-focused organizations. Throughout the episode, we'll navigate the complexities surrounding universal school choice, discussing its impact on families, communities, and the broader education landscape. We'll address questions like: How can universal school choice empower families and children to access the benefits of a Catholic education? What policy considerations are crucial for ensuring equitable access to quality education options? And what can we learn from Shawn Peterson's experiences in advocating for parental choice in education? Tune in to SPPI-TV and join the conversation on universal school choice. Gain a deeper understanding of this important policy issue, discover innovative solutions, and explore the potential future of education in our communities. Don't miss this enlightening and thought-provoking episode that aims to shape the conversation and inspire change. Remember to subscribe to SPPI-TV for more engaging discussions on public policy, featuring policymakers, experts, and thought leaders who are shaping the future of our communities. Together, let's explore the issues that matter and find solutions that make a difference. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_tjAj_QsVFk Relevant reading: https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/what-shocking-nations-report-card-scores-reveal-about-catholic-schools Learn more about Catholic Education Partners: https://catholiced.us/ Connect with Shawn Peterson on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/speterson1/ ⁠Learn more about the Southwest Public Policy Institute: ⁠https://southwestpolicy.com/⁠ Support SPPI with a tax-deductible contribution: ⁠https://donate.southwestpolicy.com/

Join us on the next episode of SPPI-TV as we dive into the latest Native American current events with our special guest, Dr. Katherine Spilde. In this episode, we'll explore two significant developments: the Chaco Canyon buffer zone update and the groundbreaking Haaland v. Brackeen Supreme Court decision. First, we'll discuss the controversial 10-mile barrier implemented by Interior Secretary Deb Haaland around Chaco Canyon Monument. Despite opposition from the Navajo Nation, Haaland's decision is expected to have far-reaching consequences, impacting tribal members' property rights and costing millions over the next two decades. We'll examine the implications of this action and the support it receives from New Mexico's Congressional delegation. Next, we'll delve into the landmark Haaland v. Brackeen Supreme Court case, which upholds the importance of tribal sovereignty and protects the cultural identity of Native American children. We'll explore the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), its historical context, and its role in ensuring the welfare and preservation of Native American families. We'll also discuss the case's background, its journey through the courts, and the significant implications of the Supreme Court's decision. Don't miss this insightful episode as we gain expert insights from Dr. Katherine Spilde and explore the latest developments impacting Native Americans. Tune in to SPPI-TV for a thought-provoking discussion on the Chaco Canyon buffer zone update and the Haaland v. Brackeen Supreme Court decision, highlighting the importance of tribal sovereignty and the preservation of Native American heritage. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9Er_tpoVdw Learn more about Dr. Katherine Spilde: https://katespilde.com/ Connect with Dr. Spilde on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-spilde-2583a74/ Relevant reading: https://southwestpolicy.com/haaland-v-brackeen-tribal-sovereignty-wins/ Relevant reading: https://www.abqjournal.com/opinion/supreme-court-ruling-reinforces-tribal-sovereignty/article_03aafbda-106c-11ee-9080-f7f6d262a959.html Learn more about the Southwest Public Policy Institute: https://southwestpolicy.com/ Support SPPI with a tax-deductible contribution: https://donate.southwestpolicy.com/

In a recent interview with Stacy Washington from Stacy on the Right on Sirius XM Patriot, we delved into the deeply concerning ASK Academy rape incident, shedding light on the impact of gender-inclusive policies on women's safety in schools. This thought-provoking discussion explored the case in detail, the challenges faced by the victim's family, and the broader implications of such incidents on the ongoing conversation surrounding gender inclusivity. During the interview, we focused on the case at hand, where a 12-year-old girl was allegedly raped in a trans-inclusive bathroom at the ASK Academy in New Mexico. We examined the concerns raised by this incident, particularly regarding the potential compromise of women and girls' safety under gender-inclusive policies. We discussed the distress experienced by the victim and her family, including their struggle to seek justice and the lack of support from the school administration. Relevant reading: https://www.stacyontheright.com/2023/06/thursdays-show-notes-06-22-23/ Relevant reading: https://thepostmillennial.com/exclusive-female-student-alleges-she-was-raped-in-trans-inclusive-bathroom-at-new-mexico-middle-school

In the latest episode of SPPI-TV, the public policy podcast of the Southwest Public Policy Institute, join host and SPPI president Patrick M. Brenner as he embarks on a captivating international journey. Titled "Discussions Abroad," this episode offers a unique glimpse into the lives and perspectives of Patrick's family members, who are currently enjoying their summer in Nottingham, England. In this special edition, Patrick sits down with his father- and mother-in-law, Robert and Susan Abernathy. Drawing upon their extensive life experiences, Robert and Susan provide valuable insights into public policy issues from their own unique vantage points. As passionate advocates for social justice and active community members, their perspectives are sure to inspire and provoke thought. But the discussions don't stop there. Patrick's three children, Charlotte, Marie, and David, also join the conversation, offering their fresh and diverse perspectives on the world of public policy. Through their youthful lens, they shed light on the challenges and opportunities facing their generation, both at home and abroad. Join SPPI president Patrick M. Brenner and his insightful guests as they bridge the gap between generations and continents, fostering understanding and inspiring action. "Discussions Abroad" promises to be an engaging episode filled with thought-provoking insights, personal anecdotes, and a shared commitment to sound public policy.

Join us for the next episode of SPPI-TV titled "Bitcoin Mining and Decentralized Finance" as we explore the fascinating world of cryptocurrency and its impact on the economy, energy grid, and the environment. Our guest speakers for this episode are Eric Peterson, the Policy Director with Satoshi Action Fund, and John Berlau, senior fellow and Director of Finance Policy at the Competitive Enterprise Institute. Our host is Patrick Brenner, the President of the Southwest Public Policy Institute (SPPI). John's work focuses on how public policy affects access to capital, entrepreneurship, and investments made by the public and business community alike. In recent years, he has studied the consequences of financial reform efforts passed by Congress like the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, the government’s response to the 2008 financial crisis including the Dodd-Frank Act, the placement of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac into conservatorship, and the rise of cryptocurrency. Satoshi Action Fund is a nonpartisan, non-profit organization dedicated to informing policymakers and regulators about the benefits of Bitcoin mining and its potential as a tool for stabilizing the grid, promoting economic growth, and fostering environmental sustainability. They actively engage in political campaigns and grassroots efforts to shape public policy and create a favorable landscape for Bitcoin mining. During this episode, we will delve into the concept of Proof-of-Work, the consensus mechanism behind the Bitcoin protocol, which Satoshi Action Fund is committed to protecting. We will discuss how this innovation can have a positive impact on various aspects of our society, including the economy, energy grid stability, and environmental conservation. Eric Peterson, as the Policy Director of Satoshi Action Fund, will share insights on their model policy, designed to help states attract more Bitcoin mining activities in a sustainable and effective manner. They advocate for policy actions that unlock energy assets, protect the industry from discrimination, and promote research and understanding of this innovative technology through the establishment of commissions or councils. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H0E97TxXSQE Learn more about Satoshi Action Fund: https://www.satoshiaction.io/ Learn more about Competitive Enterprise Institute: https://cei.org/ Connect with Eric Peterson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-peterson-410a9647/ Connect with John Berlau on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-berlau-85b717170/ Learn more about the Southwest Public Policy Institute: https://southwestpolicy.com/ Support SPPI with a tax-deductible contribution: https://donate.southwestpolicy.com/

Join us for the next episode of SPPI-TV titled "Powering the Future" as we delve into the current state of energy production and distribution. Our guest speakers for this episode are D. Dowd Muska, the Vice President of Research at the Southwest Public Policy Institute (SPPI), and Larry Behrens, the Western States Director with Power the Future. In this episode, we will be discussing SPPI's report, originally published in November 2022, titled "A Bright, Shining Disappointment: Solar Photovoltaic’s Failure in the Southwest." Dowd Muska will provide insights and analysis on the underwhelming performance of solar photovoltaic energy in the Southwest region of the United States. The report sheds light on the fundamental challenges faced by solar energy, its low contribution to the energy mix, and the reasons behind its inability to live up to expectations. Larry Behrens, with his wealth of experience in state government and communications, will share his insights on energy and environmental policies in New Mexico. Having worked closely with implementing energy policies and overseeing key agencies, Behrens understands the impact of such policies on the lives of everyday citizens. He will provide valuable perspectives on how these policies can support energy workers and contribute to thriving communities. Tune in to SPPI-TV Ep. 11: "Powering the Future" to gain a deeper understanding of the current energy landscape and explore the challenges and opportunities for the future. We believe that by sharing facts and research, we can foster a better-informed population and engage in a productive national conversation on energy. Together, let's strive for a high-quality life and a well-preserved environment, honoring the hard work and dedication of those who power our future. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pF32o0NPlc Learn more about Power the Future: https://powerthefuture.com/ Learn more about the Southwest Public Policy Institute: https://southwestpolicy.com/ Support SPPI with a tax-deductible contribution: https://donate.southwestpolicy.com/ Relevant reading: https://www.thecentersquare.com/texas/article_52b7f6e8-edbb-11ed-a2b3-a7740bee97c7.html Relevant reading: https://www.thecentersquare.com/new_mexico/article_5bb6556e-e9f6-11ed-a681-1f3ccee2b6f0.html

Join host Patrick M. Brenner, president of the Southwest Public Policy Institute, in an insightful episode of SPPI-TV as he delves into the captivating world of interest rate caps and the role of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). With esteemed guests Todd Zywicki, renowned legal scholar, Andrew Duke, Executive Director of the Online Lenders Alliance, and John Berlau, Director of Finance Policy at the Competitive Enterprise Institute, this episode promises an engaging discussion on the impact of interest rate regulations and the implications for consumers and the financial industry. Don't miss this opportunity to unravel the complexities surrounding interest rate caps and gain valuable insights from our esteemed panel of experts. Watch this episode on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1ofWZZx7E0⁠ Read the groundbreaking report "No Loan For You!": ⁠https://southwestpolicy.com/report-no-loan-for-you/⁠ Learn more about the Southwest Public Policy Institute: ⁠https://southwestpolicy.com/⁠ Learn more about the Competitive Enterprise Institute: ⁠https://cei.org/⁠ Learn more about the Online Lenders Alliance: ⁠https://onlinelendersalliance.org/⁠ Read the OLA survey results: ⁠https://onlinelendersalliance.org/new-online-lenders-alliance-survey-data-finds-many-customers-of-the-six-largest-banks-offering-small-dollar-loans-continue-to-rely-on-alternative-lenders-to-help-meet-credit-needs/⁠ Order John's book from Amazon: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/George-Washington-Entrepreneur-Founding-Business/dp/1250172608/ref=sr_1_1⁠ Order Todd's book from Amazon: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Consumer-Financial-Management-Association-Synthesis-ebook/dp/B00N2WMBFA/ref=sr_1_1 Support SPPI with a tax-deductible contribution: https://southwestpolicy.com/donate

Tune in to this thought-provoking episode of SPPI-TV to gain a comprehensive understanding of the detrimental impact of taxpayer-funded advocacy. In the latest episode of SPPI-TV, join hosts Dowd Muska and Patrick Brenner as they delve into the Southwest Public Policy Institute's groundbreaking report titled "They Lobby — You Pay: Why and How to Stop Taxpayer-Funded Advocacy." This episode sheds light on the pervasive issue of government entities using taxpayer funds for lobbying and advocacy and explores the urgent need to address this practice. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfFXFHJ9nTo Read the report, which is the highlight of this episode: ⁠https://southwestpolicy.com/report-they-lobby-you-pay/ Learn more about the Southwest Public Policy Institute: ⁠https://southwestpolicy.com Support SPPI with a tax-deductible contribution: ⁠https://southwestpolicy.com/donate