The Round Table: A Next Generation Politics Podcast

Welcome to another episode of The Round Table! This week, Daniel, Hannah, and Kassandra welcomed Lindsey Grossman, a distinguished expert in technology and public policy with a remarkable career spanning nearly two decades. Lindsey has left an indelible mark across the globe through her leadership roles at major companies including Intuit, Stripe, Netflix, Wise, and Block. Her career has been driven by a commitment to improving access to financial tools for small businesses and families, showcasing her talent for developing innovative products and forging strong partnerships.

Lindsey's journey began with a solid foundation in public policy and government affairs, which has profoundly influenced her approach to technology and product development throughout her career. During our conversation, Lindsey explores the crucial intersection of technology and public policy, discussing the importance of collaboration between companies and governments and sharing examples of successful and challenging outcomes in these partnerships. She delves into how her global and local experiences have shaped her perspective, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in addressing both international and community-level issues.

Recently, Lindsey has taken a sabbatical, engaging in volunteer work with local Democratic initiatives in upstate New York and consulting with a startup company. This period of reflection and community involvement has reignited her passion for public service, particularly in enhancing women's reproductive care. Lindsey also reflects on her personal and professional experiences as a woman in international policy and tech circles, including her efforts to support women's leadership and navigate various challenges.

Additionally, Lindsey shares how her time studying and working in India and London has been pivotal in shaping her career and worldview, and how her early experiences in Washington, DC laid the groundwork for her subsequent achievements. Join us for a compelling discussion with Lindsey Grossman as she offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of technology and public policy, and how her diverse experiences continue to inspire and influence her work. Thanks for listening!

Welcome to another episode of The Round Table!

This week, Emmanuel, Hannah, Daniel, and Inyoo converse with Matt Krayton, the visionary Founder of Publitics, to delve into the dynamic intersection of politics, strategy, and branding. Matt brings a wealth of experience to our discussion, having played a pivotal role in shaping political communications at multiple levels. His recent notable contribution was his work on special projects during the 2020 presidential campaign, where he helped design the iconic “We Just Did” hat for President Joe Biden, a symbol that captured the spirit of the moment.

Beyond his impactful work with Publitics, where he offers expert counsel to campaigns and clients across various sectors, Matt is also a dedicated educator. He currently serves as an adjunct professor at Centenary University’s Business Department, teaching in their innovative social media program. This role complements his previous experience at Fairleigh Dickinson University, where he worked with the PublicMind Poll and taught political science and law seminars.

In this episode, Matt shares insights into the evolving landscape of political strategy and branding, exploring how communications are crafted to resonate with diverse audiences. We discuss the interplay between politics and business, and how effective strategy can drive success in both arenas. Whether you're interested in the nuances of political campaigns or the broader implications of strategic communication, this conversation with Matt Krayton offers valuable perspectives on navigating these complex fields.

Thanks for listening!

Welcome to another episode of The Round Table! This week, Hannah, Kassandra, and Emily were thrilled to welcome two exceptional guests whose dedication to social justice and civic engagement is truly inspiring. Naya Houchen, the Call For Kindness Program Coordinator at Riley's Way Foundation, and Ranen, a current C4K Fellow and the co-founder of OutVote, join us to discuss their impactful work and the broader issues of community-building and advocacy.

Naya Houchen is a dynamic force in promoting kindness and empathy through her role at Riley's Way. As the Call For Kindness Program Coordinator, Naya plays a pivotal role in mentoring young people across the nation, encouraging them to foster positive change within their communities. Her work emphasizes the importance of inclusive, youth-centric leadership and addresses the diverse needs of the younger generation. In our conversation, Naya shares her insights on the intersection of social justice and kind leadership, and the essential role of creating spaces where all voices are heard and valued.

Joining Naya is Ranen Miao, a passionate advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights and the co-founder of OutVote, an organization dedicated to mobilizing the LGBTQ+ vote across the country. With a background that includes a degree in Political Science, Sociology, and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies from Washington University in St. Louis, Ranen brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. His work with OutVote focuses on building a youth-led culture of civic engagement, aiming to enhance electoral power and advocate for leaders who reflect the rich diversity of our nation. During our discussion, Ranen delves into the current state of LGBTQIA+ rights in the United States, the challenges young people face in engaging with the voting process, and the historical context of LGBTQIA+ activism. He also highlights the exciting initiatives of OutVote and how it collaborates with the Call For Kindness program.

From the impact of kind leadership to the mobilization of youth voices in the electoral process, Naya and Ranen offer valuable perspectives on building a more equitable and inclusive society. Thanks for listening!

Welcome to another episode of The Round Table!

This week, Emmanuel, Hannah, and Heba were excited to speak with Christine Woods, Co-Director of the Declaration for American Democracy. Christine brings a wealth of experience in issue-based advocacy and electoral campaigns, and we’re thrilled to dive into her impactful work and vision for democracy reform.

In this episode, Christine shares her journey from grassroots organizer to a leading figure in democracy advocacy. As Co-Director of the Declaration for American Democracy, Christine plays a pivotal role in driving sweeping reforms to strengthen and protect our democratic processes. Prior to this role, she was the Field Director for the coalition, where she led innovative grassroots efforts to mobilize communities and advance democratic values.

Christine’s career began with a focus on climate advocacy, where she led the Climate Reality Project’s 100% Renewable campaigns on college campuses. Her early work laid the foundation for her commitment to empowering everyday people to take meaningful action. We’ll hear about her transition from environmental advocacy to electoral campaigns, including her role as Field Director for a competitive Congressional campaign and her contributions during the 2016 electoral cycle.

Christine also discusses her impactful work with Public Citizen’s Democracy Is For People Campaign, where she collaborated with coalitions in New York State to expand voting rights and ensure fair elections. Her insights into these campaigns provide a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the fight for democratic reform.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about the importance of grassroots organizing, the challenges of electoral reform, and the ongoing efforts to secure a fair and representative democracy. Christine Woods’ dedication and passion for democratic integrity shine through in this engaging discussion.

You won’t want to miss it!

Welcome to this week’s episode of The Round Table!

In this episode, Emily, Inyoo, Preena, and Heba were thrilled to be joined by Amanda Geduld, an insightful journalist from The 74 Media, a leading news organization dedicated to covering education.

In this engaging conversation, Amanda takes us through her unique career trajectory—from her beginnings in the classroom to her current role in education journalism. She shares her personal journey, offering invaluable advice on how aspiring journalists can break into the field, secure internships, and carve out a path in this dynamic industry. Amanda’s expertise extends to investigative journalism within the education sector, where she has tackled pressing issues such as classroom inequity and the impact of COVID-19 on teaching and learning. We dive deep into how coverage of the pandemic has evolved, what we’ve learned, and where we might be missing the mark.

Our discussion also explores the contentious topics of book bans and the broader culture wars affecting education today. Amanda provides a thoughtful analysis of these debates and their implications for students and educators alike. Additionally, we tackle the complexities of grading practices, including the debate over grade inflation and standards-based grading. Amanda’s insights shed light on how these issues affect educational outcomes and the broader conversation on academic assessment. Join us for a compelling episode that offers a window into the world of education journalism and a nuanced discussion on the critical issues shaping our classrooms and beyond.

Thanks for listening!

At this week’s Round Table, Emily and Emmanuel spoke with special guest, Ruby Belle Booth, Election Coordinator for CIRCLE and a passionate advocate for youth civic engagement. Ruby’s dedication to amplifying young voices and fostering democratic participation is both inspiring and crucial in today’s political landscape.

Ruby’s journey began as a Diverse Democracy Fellow at CIRCLE in the summer of 2020, and since then, she has made significant strides in her role as Election Coordinator. A graduate of Tufts University with a BA in History and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, Ruby’s academic background and professional experience converge in her commitment to social, racial, and economic justice through enhanced youth involvement in civic processes.

In this episode, Ruby shares her insights and experiences working on pivotal projects like the CIRCLE Growing Voters report. We delve into her role in coordinating CIRCLE’s 2022 election work and explore her current research as a fellow at the Brennan Center for Justice, focusing on civic learning and engagement. Ruby’s work is a testament to the power of youth participation in shaping our political and educational systems.

Ruby’s passion for empowering the next generation and her deep understanding of the intersection between youth activism and policy make this conversation both timely and impactful. So, join us as we discuss the vital role of young people in democracy, the challenges and opportunities in increasing youth engagement, and the innovative approaches Ruby and her team are employing to drive meaningful change.

Thanks for listening!

At this week’s Round Table, Hannah, Inyoo, and Preena spoke with Professor Robert Ghrist, the Andrea Mitchell PIK Professor of Mathematics and Electrical & Systems Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania. With an impressive background and a wealth of knowledge in Applied Algebraic Topology, Professor Ghrist joins us to share his expertise and perspectives on the intersection of mathematics, technology, and education.

In this episode, we dive deep into Professor Ghrist’s groundbreaking work in applied mathematics. From his early academic journey—earning his BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Toledo and his MS and PhD in Applied Mathematics from Cornell University—to his influential roles at esteemed institutions like the University of Texas, Georgia Tech, and the University of Illinois, Ghrist’s career is a testament to his dedication to the field.

We explore his significant contributions to applied algebraic topology, particularly in sensor networks, robotics, signal processing, data analysis, and optimization. Professor Ghrist shares insights into his award-winning research and discusses the impact of his acclaimed textbook, Elementary Applied Topology. We also touch on his role in managing large Department of Defense grants and his recognition with prestigious awards such as the NSF CAREER and Vannevar Bush Faculty Fellow awards.

Beyond his research, we delve into Professor Ghrist's passion for education and communication. His innovative teaching methods, including the popular YouTube series featuring the Calculus BLUE Project and his Coursera course, showcase his commitment to making complex mathematical concepts accessible and engaging.

Additionally, we discuss Professor Ghrist’s involvement in the AI field, his optimistic view on the future of artificial intelligence, and his recent initiatives in AI education, including teaching an AI course and helping launch the AI major at UPenn.

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that bridges mathematics, technology, and creative expression. Whether you're a student, educator, or simply curious about the cutting edge of applied mathematics, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Thanks for listening!

At this week’s Round Table, Hannah, Heba, and Preena were thrilled to host Phillip Gordon, the dynamic Deputy Director of Social Capital, Inc. (SCI). Phillip, who joined SCI in 2019 and has since become a pivotal force in the organization, brings a wealth of experience in strategic planning, program development, and fundraising. His remarkable journey includes leading the SCI AmeriCorps program, developing innovative initiatives like the SCI Allyship Curriculum & Workshop and the SCI Youth Grant Pitch Contest, and orchestrating the annual Juneteenth celebration in Woburn. His recent collaboration with Merrimack College highlights his commitment to fostering institutional partnerships and expanding community impact.

In this episode, Phillip shares insights into his role at SCI and his passion for community building and intergenerational civic engagement. We delve into the transformative power of arts and culture in community development, explore the nuances of institutional partnerships, and discuss how collaboration can drive meaningful change. Phillip also opens up about his experiences with the SCI AmeriCorps program and his approach to creating inclusive, impactful programs that resonate across generations.

Join us as we explore these thought-provoking topics with a leader who is dedicated to creating stronger, more connected communities. Tune in to hear Phillip’s inspiring vision for the future and gain a deeper understanding of how strategic community engagement can make a lasting difference. Thanks for listening!

At this week’s Round Table, Emmanuel and Inyoo spoke with Russell Chun, an esteemed Associate Professor of Journalism, Media Studies, and Public Relations, recognized for his expertise in multimedia storytelling, design, and data journalism. For the first episode of our Civic Tech Series which will be released occasionally throughout our normal season, we focused on generative AI and journalism, and the impact it has had on our communities locally, nationally, and globally. Russell's research, featured in leading publications like Visual Studies and Visual Communication Quarterly, explores effective data visualization and the evolving landscape of modern communication.

As co-editor of "Fake News: Real Issues in Modern Communication" and author of books on Adobe multimedia software, Russell brings a wealth of knowledge to our discussion. His insights have shaped academia and influenced major media outlets such as PBS MediaShift and The New York Times.

In this episode, Russell shares his fascination with generative AI and its impact on journalism. We delve into the ethical considerations and practical applications of AI amidst challenges posed by big tech and social media. From his tenure at institutions like Columbia University and UC Berkeley to his role in shaping data science curricula, Russell offers a unique perspective on journalism education in practice.

As Russell Chun inspires us with his vision for the future of visual communication and media innovation, we deep dive into multimedia storytelling, data journalism, and the ethical dilemmas of AI in journalism. Thanks for listening!

At this week’s Round Table, Emily, Emmanuel, Hannah, and Preena speak with Terry Parris Jr., the Public Square Editor for Headway at The New York Times as well as a passionate advocate for community-centered storytelling and civic engagement.

Terry brings a wealth of experience to our discussion, having previously served as the Engagement Director at THE CITY and as a deputy editor at ProPublica. His pioneering work includes initiatives like MISSING THEM, which memorialized the lives lost to COVID-19, and The Open Newsroom, fostering collaboration between journalists and local communities.

In our conversation with Terry, we explore pivotal questions surrounding civic engagement and education in today's world. What truly engages young people in matters of civics and democracy? How can storytelling, organization, and information sharing be made not only informative but enjoyable? Terry shares insights into making civic education relevant and compelling, even for those who may feel disinterested or overwhelmed by traditional approaches.

We also delve into the challenges of political discourse and civic education in classrooms today. How can we encourage meaningful conversations about politics without alienating students? Terry offers strategies to separate civics from polarizing political debates, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives can be respectfully explored.

Furthermore, we examine the role of news media, both local and national, in connecting with younger audiences. How can media organizations better listen to and represent the interests of younger generations? Terry advocates for inclusive storytelling and projects that resonate with diverse age groups, challenging the status quo of news consumption demographics.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of democracy and community empowerment. Thank you for listening!