Ever wonder how the proposed assault weapons ban might reshape our society? Or question how common sense could be applied to the Second Amendment? Join us as we welcome back Ryan Busey, author of "Gunfight", for a compelling discussion on these topics and more. We reflect on the societal norms set by the 1994–2004 ban and explore bipartisan-supported policies such as universal background checks and setting a higher minimum purchase age for semi-automatic rifles. 

Exploring the intricacies of firearm regulation, we draw insightful parallels between car and gun ownership. We scrutinize the NRA's surprising history of supporting regulations akin to licensing and permit requirements for driving. Additionally, we tap into the critical subject of firearm responsibility and liability, focusing on legislation like safe storage laws. We also question whether manufacturers should bear the burden for the illegal actions of their users, especially with highly marketed weapons.

As we wrap up our conversation, we envision a potential collaboration between responsible parties in the firearms industry and regulators to mitigate firearm violence. We discuss how access to firearms can worsen violence-prone situations, especially among young men in cities like Chicago. We also emphasize the importance of firearm education and highlight Ryan Busey's work in promoting gun safety and responsibility. By the end, we hope to leave you with a deeper understanding of the complexities of firearm regulation and the potential paths towards a safer society.

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Peel back the curtain on the divisive discourse around guns and gun laws in America with my captivating conversation with Ryan Bussey, author of the book Gunfight. As an experienced outdoorsman, hunter, conservationist, and influential figure in the firearms industry, Ryan’s insights promise to reshape perceptions and prompt critical thinking. His rural upbringing on a ranch has deeply shaped his views on gun responsibility, providing him a unique vantage point to discuss the breakdown of norms within the firearms industry.

We crack open the tactical firearms market, exploring its rise and the targeted demographic — largely young men. The conversation gets particularly intense as we discuss the alarming surge in gun sales and the influx of new, often untrained, gun owners. Armed with high-capacity rifles and driven by an all-or-nothing mentality, these newcomers pose a significant threat to our democracy. 

In the final act, we navigate the intricate web of political and social changes that have profoundly influenced gun sales in America. From the election of President Obama, the heart-wrenching tragedy of Sandy Hook, to the Trump era, each event has left indelible marks on the firearms landscape. Ryan sheds light on how the industry uses fear as a sales driver and the powerful role the NRA plays in this narrative. We also delve deep into the role of private firearms in a democracy and the urgency of addressing this contentious issue responsibly. Don't miss this riveting journey through the intricate world of guns and gun laws in America.

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What are the policies needed to overcome today's small business workforce challenges? Join us for an insightful conversation with our special guest, Brian Calley, President and CEO of the Small Business Association of Michigan. From automation to remote work to artificial intelligence, we discuss these changes' impact on the tax base and how they've shaped the journey of Brian's extensive career, including his time as Lieutenant Governor of Michigan.

We also dive into the vital policy work to connect housing, employment, education, and training to create an environment for robust job opportunities. We touch on various challenges and solutions in workforce development, such as providing adequate housing and childcare and addressing the impact of opioid addiction on labor force participation. Additionally, we discuss the organization's efforts in tackling criminal justice reform and benefit cliff issues on social services to ensure everyone's inclusion in the workforce. Somewhat Michigan-centric episode, and with applicability across the nation. 

We wrap up with a great example of cross-border cooperation as Mr. Calley discusses the Gordie Howe International Bridge. He explains why Canada is fronting the costs, and how vital the span is to national defense and commerce of both nations.

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What if you were given a blank canvas to construct a new country from scratch - What would your ideal nation look like?  Tune in as I challenge you to contemplate this intriguing thought experiment. From governance and prosperity to equality and leadership, we delve into the fundamental building blocks of nationhood and the meticulous considerations it entails. In this candid discourse, I put forth provocative questions about power dynamics, checks against tyranny, and the responsibilities you would establish in your utopian society.

Honoring the 4th of July, I also embark on a contemplative journey through America's history - acknowledging its imperfections, observing its resilience, and celebrating its progress. From the disturbing chapters of slavery and Jim Crow Laws to the ongoing quest for a more perfect union. I unravel the complexities of our national history and the balance between condemnation and celebration. So, engage your political imagination, get ready for a fascinating exploration of nationhood, and join the conversation on the constant striving for a better future.

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Was the Kennedy Assassination the beginning of conspiracy theories that spawned today’s rampant mistrust of government and the reporting industry? Renowned investigative reporter and author Gerald Posner discusses the newly-released CIA records about the 1963 murder of the president in this riveting episode. Mr. Posner is the author of 13 books, and he describes his investigative process for The Common Bridge. Investigating without an expectation of a particular outcome or conclusion has been a hallmark of Gerald Posner’s work. Listen as he delves into subjects like the murder of a president, transactivism, the pharmaceutical industry, children of Nazi leaders, and the search for Josef Mengele. At a time when curiosity, critical thinking and examining the facts before jumping to conclusions is more important than ever, you will be heartened to know of the tireless body of work of one of America’s foremost Investigative Reporters and Authors.

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World War II is often portrayed as a period of national unity and purpose in the USA. However, many of the same divisions present today existed then. As the country pivoted to a war economy and then back to a civilian economy, the opportunities for corruption and incompetence were rife. Enter an honest and capable Senator from Missouri – Harry S. Truman.  NPR’s Steve Drummond,  author of “The Watchdog – How the Truman Committee Battled Corruption and Helped World War II” guests on The Common Bridge. You’ll enjoy the well-researched history and be grateful for public servants like Mr. Truman.  

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How do we navigate the controversial and sensitive topic of transgenderism and pediatric gender medicine? Today, we're joined by Leor Sapir, a PhD holder in Political Science, who shares his insights from years of analyzing the legal, policy, and evidence-based landscape surrounding gender affirming care. We'll explore the medicalization of young people, the concept of the transgender child, and the ethical considerations of these treatments. We discuss the contentious issue of informed consent in gender affirming medicine and how, in reality, parents are the ones providing consent. Taking a closer look at the transgender child, we question the validity of the "brain sex hypothesis" and the affirmative protocol. Who is profiting from the medicalization of young people, and is there a hidden profit motive behind this push? As we venture further into the complexities of pediatric transitions, we examine the implications of school social transitions and the potential consequences for those who may regret or change their minds about transitioning.  
Join us for this thought-provoking and significant conversation with Leor Sapir as we aim to understand the ethical questions surrounding transgenderism, transsexualism, and pediatric healthcare.

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After an informative discussion on the PEPFAR program, in Part 2 of this interview Dr. Birx responds to Rich’s questions about the loss of scientific credibility in the 2020 Covid pandemic response.   CDC Policies were not designed for, nor were responsive to the coronavirus pandemic, causing the CDC to fail the country and support policy actions often didn’t match the science or the data of the time. Dr. Birx casts light on herd immunity and discusses pandemic and broad health concerns in rural America as well. 

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20 years ago, as HIV and AIDS threatened vast populations in sub-Saharan Africa, Haiti, Guyana and Vietnam, the US Government made the largest investment in battling a pandemic. Known as the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).  May 27th marked the 20th anniversary of the creation of this bipartisan program which coordinated the work of government agencies and local governments to reduce the infections. Dr. Deborah Birx, who had a significant role in the program visits The Common Bridge to talk about PEPFAR’s renewal.  Don’t be surprised when the discussion takes a turn to more current events. In part 2, Dr. Birx responds to Rich’s questions about the decline in scientific credibility.

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This week on The Common Bridge, Rich's guest is M.L. Elrick, a Pulitzer Prize and Emmy Award winning Investigative Reporter. ML leads the discussion from the intensely competitive  “keep ‘em honest” role of the 4th Estate to national media degrading from reporting facts to the spread of affirmation programming. All beginning with a current story about how closure of a media room at City Hall in Detroit, Michigan thwarts the mission. The media access to City Hall helped expose the crimes of former Detroit Mayor, Kwame Kilpatrick. This ultimately led to his resignation from office and criminal conviction in 2013. Important lessons from a professional who has led the defense of our democracy as a member of the free press.

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