Andrea Jones-Rooy is a data scientist and former DEI consultant. She joins to discuss what DEI is, what DEI is not, and where it goes wrong.

What would happen if the Trump administration tried to abolish or defund the Department of Education? What does it do, and is it a net positive or net negative in terms of tax dollars and dispensing knowledge? 

Comedian and former EPA employee Jeff Maurer brings humor to the quirks of government policies, such as the infamous low-flow toilets and paper straws. He discusses the oddities of environmental regulations and the frustrations of recycling practices. Maurer critiques everyday annoyances, like the penny’s pointless existence and the hidden junk fees in services. With entertaining anecdotes, he explores complex healthcare billing and a passion for making policy issues accessible and funny.

Jonathan Rauch, a prominent American intellectual and Brookings Institution fellow, discusses his book, Cross Purposes: Christianity’s Broken Promise with Democracy. He argues that the American Church has strayed from its core mission, becoming overly focused on culture wars and politics. This shift has led to rising secularization and spiritual discontent among believers. Rauch emphasizes the dangers of merging Christianity with political ideologies, advocating for a renewed focus on democratic values and community engagement rooted in unconditional love.

Cathy Reisenwitz, a writer for "Sex & The State," dives into the complex world of sex, marriage, and economics. She debunks myths around hookup culture, revealing that most people have only a few partners. The decline in Gen Z's sexual activity is explored, linking it to lifestyle changes and technology. They discuss how economic disparities affect marriage rates and relationship dynamics, especially for women earning more than men. Lastly, Cathy addresses evolving perceptions of masculinity and the need for emotional vulnerability among men.

In this discussion, James Thatcher, a senior logistics and falconry expert, dives into the complexities of international trade and tariffs. He humorously contrasts the repercussions of U.S. tariffs on Canadian sheep against French wine production. Thatcher explains how recent trade dynamics with China amplify concerns over job protection and intellectual property theft. The conversation navigates the implications of these tariffs on local businesses and consumers, emphasizing the strategic moves in a global economic chess game.

Federal workers are being reclassified as Schedule F, making it easier to fire them and pushing for a return to office work. This move raises questions about government efficiency and the public versus private sector dynamics. The discussion highlights potential pitfalls of workforce reduction, especially concerning vital services like the FDA. It also tackles common misconceptions about government size and the moral implications of these changes, teasing future conversations on ethical dilemmas.

Kirsten Brink is a passionate advocate for criminal justice reform in Tarrant County, Texas, and a devoted pen pal to death row inmates. She shares her journey into this impactful program and the deep emotional connections formed through letters. The discussion touches on the importance of companionship for those in solitary confinement, ethical challenges faced by medical professionals, and the dire conditions within Texas prisons. Kirsten invites listeners to get involved, emphasizing the transformative power of kindness in the lives of the incarcerated.

Laura and John Arnold, co-founders of Arnold Ventures, discuss their unique approach to philanthropy focused on evidence-based policy to tackle societal issues. They highlight the significance of measuring charitable impact and the challenges in American healthcare reform. The duo delves into the complexities of lobbying in higher education and advocates for individualized educational paths. Despite these challenges, they maintain an optimistic outlook for philanthropic efforts, encouraging engagement in local causes.

Evan Taylor and Cindy Webb from Pause for Paws, a charity helping those in crisis by fostering their pets, share poignant insights into the emotional ties between people and their animals. They discuss the challenges faced by the homeless and those with mental health issues who may fear losing their furry companions while seeking help. Highlighting success stories, they illustrate how fostering pets fosters hope and healing. The duo also addresses misconceptions about pet ownership during personal struggles and the need for community support.