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John Vallant, Director of the Brown Center on Education Policy at Brookings, joins the discussion on the possible future of the Department of Education under President-elect Trump. They explore the agency's essential functions, historical evolution, and budgetary implications. Vallant highlights the challenges surrounding the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the potential impacts of shifting responsibilities away from federal oversight. The conversation also touches on changing educational policies, the rise of private school choice, and the complexities of equity in education.

Taylor Poplar, a Washington correspondent for Spectrum News, joins an insightful panel alongside Jeff Mason, White House correspondent at Reuters, and Amy McKinnon, national security expert at Foreign Policy. They discuss the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, sharing urgent stories of evacuation and community impact. The conversation shifts to President Trump’s recent legal challenges and controversial comments about Greenland. Additionally, they delve into the geopolitical implications of Canada’s political shifts and the U.S. State Department’s alarming designation of genocide in Sudan.

Julie Rovner, Chief Washington correspondent for KFF Health News, Dan Diamond, National health reporter for The Washington Post, and Samuel Bagenstas, former general counsel of HHS, dive into the inner workings of the Department of Health and Human Services. They discuss the profound impact of HHS on American healthcare, potential vaccine policy changes under new leadership, and the looming threat of bird flu. Their insights reveal the tension between political influences and the vital role of career public servants in safeguarding public health.

Marianne Schnall, a journalist and author known for her work on women's leadership, and Nancy Mitchell, a history professor specializing in Carter's impact, join to celebrate Jimmy Carter's remarkable life. They discuss his empathetic leadership style and commitment to social justice, illustrating key moments from his presidency and his humanitarian initiatives post-office. They delve into how Carter's character exemplifies the qualities needed in today's leaders, emphasizing his lasting legacy in both American politics and global humanitarian efforts.

Julie Rovner, Chief Washington correspondent for KFF Health News, Dan Diamond, National health reporter for The Washington Post, and Samuel Bagenstas, former general counsel of HHS, dive into the complexities of the Department of Health and Human Services. They discuss the potential impacts of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s appointment as secretary, including changes to vaccine policy and funding. They also explore the implications of Medicare privatization, vaccine confidence, and the role of dedicated public servants in shaping health policy amid political challenges.

Leo Shane III, Deputy Editor at Military Times, and Catherine Kuzminski, Director at the Center for New American Security, dive into the complexities of the Department of Defense and the VA. They discuss the staggering $2 trillion budget and the oversight challenges it faces. The conversation highlights recruitment struggles and the impact of budget cuts on veteran services. Personal accounts from veterans reveal both progress and ongoing hurdles in healthcare access, emphasizing the urgent need for digital transformation in the VA.

In this insightful discussion, journalist Kate Woodsome, a Pulitzer Prize winner known for her riveting coverage of January 6, reflects on the chaos she faced at the Capitol. She explores how that day reshaped her personal and professional life, leading her to confront workaholism and embrace mental health advocacy. Woodsome also emphasizes the critical links between mental health and democracy, urging for community support to tackle societal crises like loneliness and the opioid epidemic. Her journey illustrates the power of resilience and transformation.

Donald Moynihan, a professor at the University of Michigan's Ford School, and Lisa Rine, an investigative reporter with The Washington Post, tackle the future of federal agencies amid potential job cuts. They discuss the critical roles of civil servants in American life and how public perceptions of federal workers are shifting. The duo also explores the challenges in attracting younger talent to federal jobs, emphasizing outdated hiring practices. Finally, they highlight the potential impacts of budget cuts on vital services and the debate around remote work policies.

Anita Kumar, Senior Managing Editor at Politico, and Nancy Youssef, a National Security Correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, lead a discussion on pivotal current events. They delve into the tragic New Orleans attack linked to ISIS, examining its national security implications and public perception. The panel also reflects on President Jimmy Carter's legacy, highlighting his humanitarian work. Additionally, they analyze geopolitical tensions, including the situation in Ukraine and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

In this insightful discussion, Erica Sinner, author and CEO, advocates for workplace pet bereavement policies. Dr. Sarah Hogan, an experienced emergency veterinarian, shares the emotional toll of losing a pet and the nuances surrounding euthanasia decisions. Clinical psychologist Katie Lawler highlights the unique concept of disenfranchised grief that pet owners face, emphasizing the societal need for compassion and understanding. Together, they address the evolving support systems for grieving pet owners and the importance of mental health in veterinary professionals.