The Civics Lab

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Description: In this episode of the Civics Lab, we sit down with Joe Jaeger, founder and CEO of Statecraft Simulations, a project-based learning simulation for civics and politics. We delve into his entrepreneurial journey creating the platform, and how it teaches students the complexities and nuances of the political system. Joe connects his work to the contemporary political landscape, delving into topics such as the separations of power, the constitution, and the influence of social media. Tune in to the Civics Lab to listen to this conversation. 

Music Credit: David Thomason 

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Description

The Civics Lab toured an abandoned Travis County landfill now slated for redevelopment into housing. We explore its history, a lawsuit filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton against Travis County, and the developer’s push for county accountability. Guests include Ashika Ganguly Executive Director of Transit Forward, Luis Osta Lugo, Board Member for AURA, Corbin Graham, Principal at Graham Development, and attorney Jim Blackburn, discussing the environmental and political complexities of the landfill, Austin, and Travis County.

Date Recorded 

Monday, July 14th, 2025 

Music Credit

Artist: David Thomason 

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Description
The Civics Lab sits down with Jill Goodman, CEO of Leadership Austin. Tune in to learn about Leadership Austin’s dynamic leadership programs and the diverse cohorts they engage. Jill shares insights on the importance of tough conversations, why leadership is essential for community progress, and why she’s so passionate about the organization’s mission. 

More about Leadership Austin

For more information on Leadership Austin, visit their website: https://leadershipaustin.org. If you want to be more action oriented with Leadership Austin, sign up for their newsletter: https://leadershipaustin.us1.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=bc96d256e1face47230702995&id=c868edfdf7. 

Date Recorded
July 2nd, 2025

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In this episode of The Civics Lab, we sit down with Dottie Watkins, President and CEO of CapMetro. Dottie shares her remarkable journey starting as a bus operator while attending the University of Texas at Austin to leading the entire organization. Tune in to learn how CapMetro is adapting to shifting riding patterns, aligning its goals with community needs, and shaping the future of public transit in Austin.

Date Recorded :  Friday, May 16th, 2025 

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Description:
In this episode of The Civics Lab Podcast, we take you inside the annual Hillhops event at St. Edward's Munday Library - home to one of the country's few brewery archives focused specifically on Texas craft brewing. Join us as we explore this distinctive celebration that stands out as one of Central Texas's most unique beer events, offering listeners an insider's perspective on both the archive's significance and the vibrant experience of Hillhops itself.

Date Recorded:
January 23rd, 2025

Music Credit:
Music is by the Austin Polka Band 

Link to the Research Study: 

https://www.americancraftbeer.com/us-states-with-the-most-and-least-beer-regulations/

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Podcast description 

On January 15, 2025, We interviewed the author of The Holy Land at War. The Civics lab also brought in Dr. Selin Guner a professor of political science at St. Edwards's University. This conversation offered insights into both sides.

Date Recorded

January 15, 2025

Music Credit

Title: Reflected Light

Artist Sergii Pavkin

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Podcast Description 

On November 14, 2024, The Civics Lab attended the Texas Tribune’s Rural Symposium at the University of Texas in San Antonio. This event featured insightful panel discussions on the unique challenges and strengths of rural communities. From environmental struggles and economic development to shifting populations and agriculture, experts and community leaders shared valuable perspectives on the future of rural Texas. Tune in as we break down key takeaways and explore the pressing issues shaping rural America. You can also access the full symposium on the Texas Tribune’s website. 

Date Recorded 

November 14th, 2024 

Music Credit

Title: Vaporize 

Artist: Squiid 

Link to Texas Tribune Symposium Recordings 

https://www.texastribune.org/2024/08/01/small-town-big-possibilities-San-Antonio-symposium/

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St. Edward's University PoliSci honors students, Jacob Zivin, Paige Kennedy, George Reyes, and Janie Herring analyze statements from our Election panel with Grace Chemane (League of Women's Voters), Chuck DeVore (Texas Public Policy Foundation) and Bruce Elfant (Travis County Tax Assessor).  

This episode is brought to you by a civic engagement grant from Pi Sigma Alpha Political Science Honors Society.  

Music By Mike Kirpak from Pixbay

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In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Chad Long, a Political Science Professor at St. Edward's University and an expert in American politics. Dr. Long offers his insights on federal spending, analyzes the 2024 presidential campaign, and dives into the key issues shaping the outcome of the election.

Song credit

Song name: Remember 

Artist: KalzanBlu 

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Victoria Guerrero, a Kozmetsky Fellow at St. Edward's University, shares her research on the relationship between South Korean music and Austin.  She discusses the Asian Music Festival in Central Texas and the variety of cultures represented by music.  Jacob Zivin interviews and George Reyes introduces the episode.