The Round Table: A Next Generation Politics Podcast

At this week's Round Table, Ava, Jack, Kenisha, Madeline, Maya, and Skyla had a really special conversation: with each other. That’s right, no guests which gave us the opportunity to REALLY dig in with one another. We discussed a lot of things: Systemic racism and how it plays out; what we learned through Black@ accounts; whether we are unified between our home self and school self–and where does our true identity lie; how to teach beyond issues that are ingrained in society, and in us; How schools are part of larger systemic issues; if and how it’s possible to create integrated education given segregated neighborhoods; and what we can do to ensure more equitable education that provides youth with a strong foundation to build on beyond that.  We had a great time recording this and hope you’ll have an equally great time listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week’s Round Table, Inica and Madeline spoke with Jade Zaroff, founder of Entertainment for Change. Jade was raised as a performer and from an early age recognized that being an artist is being an observer of life. She’s long asked herself questions like “why don’t we care about the planet? Why do we treat people differently? How can we use art intentionally to tell stories using the 17 Sustainable Development Goals to help people work for change?”  This led Jade to found Entertainment for Change, blending the arts, business, and entrepreneurship, and to trademark the term “Impact Artist,” which she was shocked to discover didn’t exist. Last year Jade launched the Impact Artist curriculum for 100 youth ages 9-17 at French Woods summer camp to great acclaim and she’s continuing to grow it. We loved hearing about the innovative programming she’s created and talking about change and success more broadly. Change is very personal for Inica these days. This week’s podcast was her last, after three great years being with you weekly as a podcast host. As she heads off to Barnard College this fall, she look forward to joining you as a fellow listener of The Round Table. Thank you for joining us! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week's Round Table, Inica and Madeline spoke with Bhawani Venkataraman, Associate Professor of Chemistry and Chair and Departmental Faculty Advisor for Natural Sciences and Mathematics at The New School.  Professor Venkataraman focuses on how chemistry can be made relevant to students and to issues of social justice and equity, and to how to get students thinking deeply and becoming informed voters—pretty cool, right? Connect macro with molecular with social Making sense of the world today requires integrating multiple disciplines, and so she strives to connect the molecular world with macro social issues. More specifically, Professor Venkataraman’s work tackles challenges around safe drinking water. We all have an intimate relationship w water and know it is essential to keeping us alive but what is it about the properties of good old H2O that makes it so? Water dictates so much about public health, safety, educational opportunities and is a POWERFUL medium for exploring the interconnections of human existence yet we rarely examine its centrality to our way of life, until after a tragedy like Flint, Michigan occurs. Professor Venkataraman works to make the invisible, visible–and visceral! She encourages us not to look at individual issues discreetly but rather to connect dots and look at systems, and to always hold issues of justice and equity at the forefront. She has a book coming out in February that connects the chemistry of water to the policies and management issues around drinking water, a connection we found fascinating and think you will as well.  Life cycles should be at the forefront of policy making, esp for vulnerable populations. As such, Professor Venkataraman’s work also focuses on how best to communicate basic scientific research on issues such as water quality, air pollution, and climate change to non-scientists–something we non-scientists really appreciated. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week's Round Table, Madeline and Kenisha did something a bit different for the podcast, along with Elijah from the Department of Youth & Community Development and Caroline from NYCVotes We Power NYC: interviewed Danny Frost, Senior Advisor and Director of Communications for the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office for an episode of We Got Issues on Facebook Live. We Got Issues is a monthly partnership of YVote/Next Generation Politics, DYCD, and NYCVotes that illuminates what different elected officials do, seeking to build voter and citizen knowledge AND to humanize the office and officials. In this episode, we talked about the role of the District Attorney  (spoiler alert: it’s NOT to nail em and jail em), Danny’s responsibilities as the chief spokesperson and Public Information Officer of such a high stakes office, what’s different working as an attorney for government vs a private firm, and how the DA’s office works to engage youth and leverage Community Partnerships. We also talked about pressing current events, like how the District Attorney’s office dealt with arrests of protesters during the Black Lives Matter Protest in 2020 and how Danny has seen criminal justice in New York change over the course of his tenure. The role of the DA isn’t to win, it’s to seek justice--which aligns with our ethos at Next Generation Politics as well--so it was an exciting episode for us. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

Pranjal Jain, founder of Global Girlhood, discusses the organization’s goals to ensure every woman is portrayed in the most authentic ways possible and to encourage a new vision of what global citizenship is --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week’s Round Table, Hannah, Heba, and Inyoo spoke with Hajar Yazdiha, a sociologist and author of The Struggle for the People’s King. Our conversation with Hajar explores the ways right-wing movements manipulate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights figures.  Drawing on Hajar’s research, we discuss how these groups use the same historical sources to develop contrasting agendas, leading to polarized debates on issues like LGBTQ rights, immigrant and Muslim rights, and other areas of contention. Hajar sheds light on the complex relationship between public memory, history, and social justice, emphasizing the ongoing struggle over the narratives we tell ourselves about the past. By examining how sanitized histories perpetuate racial inequality, she underscores the importance of critically evaluating the stories we accept as true and questioning whose interests they serve. Our discussion also covers the impact of revisionist narratives on our multicultural democracy and the ways progressive and conservative movements come to drastically different conclusions about civil rights history. Hajar's insights reveal how the distortion of history continues to shape contemporary discourse and deepen societal divides. We challenge you, our listeners, to take action in a meaningful way. Start by reading Hajar Yazdiha's book, The Struggle for the People’s King, and consider sharing it with your community. Look into organizations that advocate for civil rights and get involved in supporting their work. Attend town halls and community meetings to stay informed and make your voice heard. By actively seeking knowledge and engaging with local advocacy groups, you can play a role in reshaping our understanding of history and championing social justice. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week’s Round Table, Emily, Emmanuel, Hannah, and Heba spoke with the esteemed Erika Howard, Director of Impact Strategy and External Relations for FRONTLINE. Through her pivotal role at FRONTLINE, Erika leads the charge in using documentary filmmaking as a catalyst for societal change and meaningful dialogue. With a career spanning impactful roles at POV/American Documentary and now at FRONTLINE, Erika brings a wealth of experience and insight to the table. From crafting innovative film campaigns to forging partnerships with community organizations, universities, and beyond, Erika's dedication to amplifying diverse voices and sparking vital conversations is truly inspiring. As Erika shares her perspectives on the relevance of investigative journalism in today's world and why staying informed is crucial for all citizens, especially those who are civically engaged, we explored the intersection of civic learning, education, and journalism. She also discussed how FRONTLINE is pioneering efforts to engage younger generations through their new platform, FRONTLINE Short Docs. But the conversation doesn't stop there. Erika sheds light on the pressing issue of misinformation and disinformation, offering actionable insights on how we can combat it together. Furthermore, we delve into the importance of uplifting the voices of young people in discussions about the future of democracy. Prepare to be inspired and enlightened as we discuss an engaging exploration of truth, impact, and the power of storytelling. Take the initiative to engage in meaningful discussions with peers and family members, sharing insights gained from this episode to promote media literacy and informed discourse within your community. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week's Round Table, Emily, Emmanuel, and Hannah spoke with KJ Mauwong and Sean Schrader, Podcast Fellows of the Democracy Group.. Through their distinct paths and shared commitment to service, they embody the essence of leadership, empathy, and the power of collective action.  As the discussion delved into the intricacies of community engagement, KJ and Sean illuminated the importance of aligning areas of passion with opportunities for impact. They emphasized the transformative power of grassroots mobilization and collective action, highlighting the myriad ways in which individuals can contribute to positive change within their communities. From volunteering at local organizations to spearheading grassroots initiatives, KJ and Sean emphasized the importance of active citizenship and civic participation in shaping the future we envision. KJ and Sean instilled us with a renewed sense of purpose and agency through their unwavering commitment to promoting civil discourse and community engagement. Their stories served as a powerful reminder that true change begins with each individual's willingness to listen, learn, and engage with empathy and compassion. Reflecting on the profound impact of our shared values, KJ and Sean left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds, igniting a spark of hope and possibility for a more inclusive and equitable future. Though their journeys may diverge in circumstance and experience, KJ and Sean are united by a common thread—their unwavering belief in the power of community, empathy, and collective action. As you delve deeper into their stories, you too will appreciate the resilience, compassion, and indomitable spirit that defines their respective paths. Through their voices, we find inspiration, courage, and the unwavering resolve to build a brighter tomorrow for all. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week's Round Table, Hannah and Heba spoke with Caleb Christen of the InterMovement Impact Project, a dedicated advocate for democracy and civic health. Hailing from the heartland of Wisconsin, Caleb's journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to service and systems change. Caleb's illustrious career spans over 16 years of distinguished service in the U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General's (JAG) Corps. From overseeing operations across Europe and Southwest Asia to mentoring judges in Afghanistan, Caleb's leadership left an indelible mark on the global stage. In a bold move to safeguard democracy in a new capacity, Caleb transferred from the Navy Reserves in 2020 and  into academia, entering into the hallowed halls of the Duke Divinity School and the University of Oxford's Said Business School. Recognizing the need for systems change, Caleb, along with systems change strategist Walt Roberts, co-founded the Inter-Movement Impact Project (IMIP). IMIP is not just an organization; it's a force for collective impact. Caleb introduced us to the groundbreaking concept of "local democracy hubs." These hubs, incubated through IMIP's flagship project, the "Local Intersections Project," serve as beacons of holistic support for community needs and priorities. Caleb also has a deep passion for the role of youth in building power and movement capacity, feeling strongly that movements, unlike traditional organizations, should not limit participation based on age. He believes that the dynamic energy of youth, coupled with their mastery of social media, can revolutionize the landscape of American democracy and civic health. Whether you're curious about volunteering, supporting projects, internships, or informal movement building, Caleb will have a wealth of insights for you. We’re thrilled to have you join us for a riveting conversation with a visionary leader who is shaping the future of democracy, one local democracy hub at a time. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week’s Round Table, Amelia, Emily, Hannah, and Heba engaged in a profound conversation with distinguished guest Emma Addams, Co-Executive Director of Mormon Women for Ethical Government (MWEG). Emma provides invaluable insights into the mission and principles of the organization, which is dedicated to inspiring women of faith to advocate for ethical government, transcending partisanship. Through her leadership, Emma aims to create a collaborative space where women contribute to the complex symphony that is our democracy.  Emma brought a wealth of experience to our conversation, having navigated the realms of contracts negotiation, corporate transactions, and investor relations in Boston and Silicon Valley. Her journey from building and running large piano studios to her current role in Omaha, Nebraska, has uniquely prepared her for the dynamic and collaborative nature of Mormon Women for Ethical Government’s work. In our discussion, Emma shared insights on being a principled voter, transcending partisan boundaries to embrace a broader political identity,. We explore the nuances beyond the conventional Republican and Democrat labels, delving into the spectrum of political ideologies and the role of temperament in shaping our political engagement. We also talked about the art of building peace within the complexities of democracy. Emma shared her insights on advocating for justice while adhering to the golden rule, emphasizing intentional efforts to de-escalate conflicts and promote reconciliation.   Inspired by the wisdom shared in today's episode with Emma Addams, let's take uplifting strides towards a brighter democratic future. Embrace principled voting as a powerful expression of your values, fostering unity beyond political divides. Strengthen media literacy, engage in enriching cross-generational conversations, and let faith–however you define it– guide your journey to actively contribute to shaping a more harmonious and inclusive democracy. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week’s Round Table, Emily, Emmanuel, and Hannah spoke with distinguished Professor Tania Israel of the University of California, Santa Barbara. Professor Israel is not only a beacon of knowledge but a transformative figure in the field. Holding a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, a Masters in Human Sexuality Education, and a B.A. in Psychology and Women’s Studies, she is at the forefront of academia. As a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and Past-President of the Society of Counseling Psychology, her expertise has been sought after by esteemed institutions, including the Institute of Medicine, Congress, and even the White House. As our conversation unfolded, it became evident that Professor Israel's expertise extends far beyond academic realms. As the Director of Project RISE at the University of California Santa Barbara, Professor Israel heads a research team dedicated to developing and studying interventions that support the psychological health of LGBTQ individuals and communities, and her passion for this work and for inclusivity shone throughout our conversation. Her TED Talk on bisexuality has captivated many, showcasing her ability to communicate complex topics with clarity and insight. We discussed the challenges of remaining optimistic and resilient in politically polarized times. Professor Israel shared strategies for cultivating the necessary resilience, drawing from her extensive background in psychology. Her words provided a comforting guide for listeners grappling with the emotional toll of contemporary political climate. Professor Israel also illuminated the various ways individuals can engage in elections beyond the act of casting a vote, from community involvement to advocacy. We hope you find our exploration of political polarization, resilience, and civic engagement both enlightening and inspiring. Let's carry forward the wisdom shared by Professor Israel in the face of political differences. Let's strive for understanding, empathy, and respectful dialogue. Let's nurture our optimism and resilience, recognizing that collective action can drive positive change. Let’s remember that our engagement matters, not just at the ballot box but in our communities, conversations, and informed choices. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week’s Round Table, Emmanuel and Emily spoke with Casey Vincelette, Program Administrator in the New York State Commission on National and Community Service and veteran Americorps member, who shared powerful insights and experiences about her life and personal growth through service. The mantra "It's not just about me" serves as a guiding principle in Casey's life, influencing her decisions and actions. We explore the profound impact of being part of something bigger than oneself, as Casey reflects on her time with Teach for America and her current role with the New York State Commission on National and Community Service. Casey expanded to share the broader perspective she’s gained through community service and the ripple effects that individual contributions can make to collective goals. “Defining success” took center stage in our conversation as we dissected the conventional norms and societal expectations that often shape our perceptions. Casey shared her unique perspective on carving out one's path to success, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and resilience. We hope our discussion will inspire listeners to reflect on your OWN definitions of success and challenge the notion that there is a one-size-fits-all approach. Within our conversation, we also delved into the often-neglected terrain of mental health and challenges experienced, both personally and within the educational context. We explore the significance of having open and honest conversations about mental health, breaking down stigmas, and fostering environments that support well-being–we all feel that being involved with service plays a huge role in our mental health and well being. From navigating the complexities of teaching in underserved communities to weathering the storms of the pandemic, we appreciated Casey's vulnerability and resilience immensely. We’re excited for you to join us on a transformative journey through the depths of community service, mental health, and personal success alongside the inspiring Casey Vincelette. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week’s Round Table, Emmanuel, Heba, and Preena spoke with two extraordinary guests, Sarah Medina Camiscoli and Sa'Real McRae, representing the Peer Defense Project (PDP). PDP is rewriting the narrative on how youth leaders engage with the law, breaking down systemic barriers, and championing civil rights issues. PDP’s web platform connects attorneys with youth leaders, equipping grassroots organizations with the legal tools to advocate for school integration, the abolition of youth policing and incarceration, and voting rights. Through a powerful hybrid model, PDP's lawyers and youth leaders are dismantling systemic racism in schools, courts, and government. Sarah, with her unique background as a first-generation LGBTQ+ attorney, shared her inspiring journey from being a public school teacher in the South Bronx to co-founding IntegrateNYC and going to law school and subsequently the Peer Defense Project. The intersectionality of her experiences highlighted the crucial link between education, equity, and legal advocacy. Sa'Real, a beacon of passion for Black liberation and literature, shared her journey as a community organizer who created nonprofit, Restorative Reading, illustrating the importance of literature as a tool for empowerment and education within juvenile detention centers. We discussed critical topics such as Black liberation and racial capitalism, shedding light on the intertwined dynamics that perpetuate systemic injustice, and the importance of community organizing and mutual aid as powerful tools for social change that illustrate the collective strength inherent in grassroots movements. Education justice was at the center of our conversation, which underscored the significance of dismantling oppressive structures within educational systems, both within public schools and higher education, to create a more equitable future.  As we conclude this impactful episode, let their stories serve as a catalyst for meaningful action. The transformative work undertaken by the Peer Defense Project underscores the potential of collective efforts in reshaping our society. Now, it's our turn to step into the arena of advocacy and make a difference. Let's support grassroots movements, champion education equity, promote mutual aid, and actively amplify Black liberation. The journey towards change is a collective endeavor, and each step we take contributes to the symphony of transformation. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week's Round Table, Emily, Emmanuel, Hannah, and Heba welcomed guest, Alice Siu, Associate Director of the Deliberative Democracy Lab and Senior Research Scholar at Stanford University’s Center for Democracy, Development, and Rule of Law. Dr Siu took us on an intellectual journey through the intricacies of deliberative democracy and beyond, dissecting the quality of arguments that emerge in these critical forums and delving into the heart of her research to explore the effects of socio-economic class within deliberative processes. Our conversation seamlessly transitioned into the global impact of Deliberative Polling, where Dr. Siu shared her experiences advising policymakers in diverse regions like Mongolia, China, and Brazil. Her insights painted a vivid picture of how deliberative practices can influence policy decisions at both a macro and micro scale. Addressing the pervasive issue of polarization, Dr. Siu provided thoughtful perspectives on its roots and potential remedies. The dialogue extended into crucial topics such as K-12 media literacy, where Dr. Siu emphasized the importance of equipping the younger generation with the skills to navigate the digital landscape responsibly. The dialogue then took an interesting turn as we explored the realm of AI companions – both in romantic relationships and friendships. Dr. Siu's insights into the ethical considerations and societal impact of these AI relationships added a thought-provoking layer to our discussion, as we dissected the potential benefits and challenges associated with integrating artificial intelligence into educational settings. As we conclude this enlightening episode, let Dr. Alice Siu’s insights linger in your thoughts. Remember that deliberative democracy holds the power to reshape conversations and bridge divides. Embrace the challenges of polarization, armed with the belief that thoughtful dialogue can pave the way for understanding. Stay inspired, stay engaged, and let the spirit of informed citizenship guide your journey toward a more deliberative and harmonious world. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week’s Round Table, Hannah and Heba spoke with Ian Gray of Gray Dot Catalyst, a seasoned consultant whose expertise traverses the landscapes of innovation and development, shaping the course of organizations within the humanitarian sphere. He has navigated the realms of innovation, strategy, and the humanitarian frontier. With a consultancy dedicated to steering organizations through the terrain of Innovation, Strategy, and Partnering, Ian's focus is sharp and purposeful. His clientele spans from groundbreaking STEM education startups in Nigeria to advising the UN Secretary General's Office on innovation and strategy—an eclectic portfolio reflecting his commitment to driving meaningful systems  change. Before founding his consultancy, Ian held pivotal roles as a Senior Leader within an NGO, where he spearheaded strategies, led humanitarian response teams, and analyzed conflicts. During his quarter-century tenure in the sector, he has traveled across 20+ countries and engaged in diverse projects varying in scope and duration. What truly ignites Ian's passion is his exploration of 'futures'-- a realm devoted to unraveling the paths the world might tread. Amidst this, he's deeply committed to addressing the complexities surrounding liberal democracies and the surge of populism, especially dissecting the insidious role of misinformation in shaping these narratives. Recent events have highlighted the struggle in discerning truth from falsehood, particularly in the whirlwind of social media. But Ian's passion doesn't halt there; it extends to the pursuit of social justice—a driving force underscoring his lifelong dedication to humanitarian and developmental causes. He is ever ready to delve into conversations that foster understanding and action. Through our thought-provoking journey with Ian, we explore different aspects of innovation innovation, the challenges of misinformation, the dynamics of social injustice, and the profound impact these elements have on our global landscape. Get ready for a conversation that provokes contemplation, ignites curiosity, and encourages us to strive for a more informed and just world. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week's Round Table, Emmanuel, Emily, Hannah, and Heba spoke with Sabrina Abdalla, a Senior Program Associate at Headstream, ​​an innovation program working to make the digital world safer for young people. Sabrina is a true visionary and advocate for children's mental health and in our conversation, we delve into the beating heart of advocacy and empowerment for our youth. Born in Kenya to Somali parents and raised in Salt Lake City, Sabrina's journey weaves together a tapestry of experiences that fuels her passionate drive for change. Her upbringing exposed her to the struggles of marginalized communities, igniting within her a fervent commitment to community building, education, and the transformative power of cultural storytelling. Sabrina's multidisciplinary background as an educator, community builder, and creative founder infuses her work with a unique perspective, rooted in the belief that innovation and equity go hand in hand. As part of the Headstream team, she's orchestrated programs and spaces tailored to the fabric of our diverse society. Her focus on youth mental health is unwavering. Sabrina unpacks the intricacies of challenges faced by young individuals today, offering insights into vital resources and support systems. Within this digital age, she spotlights the remarkable entrepreneurs championed by Headstream, fostering groundbreaking ideas, products, and services aimed at nurturing the mental health and wellbeing of our younger generations. We take a journey together through the landscape of children's mental health, exploring the power of community, education, and innovative solutions, all bound together by the thread of compassion and cultural understanding. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that illuminates pathways toward a brighter, more equitable future for our youth. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week’s Round Table, Emmanuel, Hannah, Heba, and Inyoo spoke with Dan Schnur who stands as a beacon of political enlightenment. With a tenure spanning over two decades at the University of California, Berkeley, USC, and Pepperdine University, Dan's teaching expertise has shaped the minds of future leaders. His courses in politics, communications, and leadership serve as the bedrock for a new generation of politically astute individuals. Dan's influence extends far beyond the classroom. His experience in the political arena spans numerous milestones, reflecting a commitment to reform and a keen understanding of governance. As the Chairman of the California Fair Political Practices Commission, Dan implemented pioneering campaign finance disclosure requirements, revolutionizing the state's political landscape. Moreover, his founding of the Voices of Reform project laid the groundwork for California's landmark redistricting reform. Beyond theory and strategy, Dan's journey encompasses practical experience at the forefront of major political campaigns. With roles in four presidential and three gubernatorial campaigns, including serving as the national Director of Communications for Senator John McCain's 2000 presidential campaign and as the chief media spokesman for Governor Pete Wilson, Dan's expertise is unparalleled. His DEDICATION to non-partisan governance reform is evident in initiatives like Fixing California, a campaign focused on campaign finance and political reform. His bold step as a non-partisan candidate for California Secretary of State in 2014 underscores his commitment to transcending political divides for the greater good. Dan's voice reverberates across leading publications such as the New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, and the Los Angeles Times. Furthermore, his role as a trusted analyst and political commentator for major news networks like CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, and NPR amplifies his influence, positioning him as a guiding light in navigating complex political landscapes. Dan is an incisive guide through the labyrinth of contemporary politics, offering not just analysis but also pathways towards a more unified, informed, and participatory political landscape. Join us in our enlightening journey with Dan Schnur, where conversations become catalysts for positive change in American politics. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week’s Round Table, Emmanuel and Inyoo spoke with Phil Smith, the National Field Director for The Concord Coalition. Founded in 1992 by former US Senators Paul Tongas and Warren Rudman, The Concord Coalition stands as a beacon of nonpartisan dedication, advocating for fiscal responsibility and educating the public about the federal budget's intricacies. Phil's journey with the coalition spans over two decades, marked by tireless efforts in conducting seminars, town hall meetings, and public policy initiatives across all 50 states.  Phil's expertise transcends boundaries, extending to engagements with major media networks like CNN, FOX, PBS, NPR, CNBC, C-span, the BBC, and CTV, reflecting his commitment to widespread awareness and dialogue about critical fiscal matters. His illustrious career extends beyond The Concord Coalition, having served as the Chief Operating Officer for Georgia's Department of Community Affairs and the Technical College System. Phil's dedication to civic engagement is underscored by gubernatorial appointments to boards like the Georgia Humanities Council and the Georgia Children and Youth Coordinating Council. Phil's passion lies in fostering understanding about the federal budget's paramount significance and the generational implications of fiscal policy. He unravels the complexity behind upcoming fiscal changes, urging us to grasp their profound impact on society for decades to come. Moreover, Phil delves into the bipartisan essence of budget policy, emphasizing the urgency of cooperation and compromise in steering our fiscal trajectory. His insights extend an invitation for all to engage in these pivotal issues, inspiring action and informed participation. Our conversation dove into the depths of fiscal responsibility, generational equity, and the pathways to a sustainable fiscal future. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this week’s Round Table, Emily and Emmanuel spoke with the remarkable Gretta Flora Irakoze, an entrepreneur and visionary based in beautiful Burundi, in a conversation that spans continents and cultures. Gretta, a proud graduate of Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), has carved her path as an entrepreneur and author with a mission close to her heart. Her upcoming debut in the world of children's literature marks a milestone—a book designed to ignite the spark of literacy in Burundi. What's unique? It's not just in one language, but in English, French, and Kirundi, reaching young minds in their native tongue and beyond. Gretta’s dedication to promoting literacy in her homeland reflects a passion for education and empowerment. Her work embodies the essence of cultural inclusivity, recognizing the importance of language in nurturing young imaginations and fostering a love for reading from an early age. Amidst the vibrant landscapes of Burundi, Gretta's efforts resonate as a testament to the universal language of storytelling. Her book–a labor of love and dedication–paves the way for children to explore worlds within pages, unlocking the doors to knowledge and imagination. Join us as we dive into the world of literacy advocacy and entrepreneurship with Gretta Flora Irakoze. Prepare for an enriching conversation that celebrates diversity, language, and the transformative power of storytelling—all encapsulated within the pages of her very first children's book. This inspiring conversation transcends borders and celebrates the power of literacy and storytelling. Gretta is launching a campaign to raise the funds still needed to print and distribute the book. You can read more about it here -and we'd love any support you can provide--investing in Gretta is a great investment. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message

At this weeek's Round Table, Emily, Emmanuel, and Hannah spoke with Chanika Perry and Lance Ozier of Conversation Forward. Chanika, a career educator and Director of Education Programs at Hands On Atlanta, brings over two decades of experience in youth development and education ranging from rural Georgia to the bustling streets of New York City and now Atlanta. Lance, a longtime faculty member at The City University of New York (and a member of our Next Gen Board of Advisors!) has gathered insights from over 20 years in classrooms and camps in Atlanta, New York, and around the world– alongside his unique perspective cultivated growing up on a Georgia farm. These longtime friends have collaborated for decades at Project Morry and co-founded Conversation Forward in order to foster meaningful exchanges. In our conversations, we delve into topics like identity, racial development, privilege, microaggressions, bias, and creating inclusive spaces in classrooms and camps. We discuss their insightful journeys navigating the intricate complexities of our world through their wealth of experience and thought-provoking perspectives. Our time together exemplified principles of Conversation Forward– it's not just about answers, it's about having the conversations that matter. Thank you for listening! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nextgenpolitics/message