2019 is the year for podcasts. With over 6 million adults listening to podcasts every week in the UK, I am proud to announce the new DCF Experience podcast. I have recently founded DCF Digital as a niche recruitment company focused on solving client’s hiring needs within SaaS Software Sales, Data Analytics and Design. I have successfully taken 3 recruitment businesses to $2 million NFI within 2 years and on this podcast you’ll find a mix of client interviews, thought leadership discussions a ...
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There are personalities behind the policies. And when we disagree, the common ground is ... conversation. Yankee Institute President Carol Platt Liebau talks with people across our state and country about the topics that are impacting YOU — and covers the human interest stories that make Connecticut unique. Join us weekly for news, policy — and a bit of fun thrown in, as well.
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The podcast dedicated to protecting all pollinators, large and small! https://www.2millionblossoms.com
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This season of Inside Giant Moments introduces new host Adam Copeland as he takes you in-depth about the 2022 Giants and what's happening all around the organization. Adam connects with players, coaches, Forever Giants, and front office staff. He brings his own thorough knowledge of Giants baseball and his perspective about the team, along with a range of insiders to guest co-host.
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Ep. 110: Getting a Handle on Affordable Housing with Francis Pickering and David Flemming
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8-30g is failing our residents. In Yankee Institute's latest study, "Getting a Handle on Affordable Housing," authors Francis Pickering and David Flemming explain how municipalities and developers across Connecticut have had to grapple with the state statute, and how it can be reformed to reduce housing costs. Read the full study here.…
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How Pollinators Help Connect To Nature with Dr. Alister Clay (031)
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In this episode, Kirsten sits down with Dr. Alister Clay, an engineer at Bosch with a fascinating journey into psychology and nature. Alister shares how his personal experiences led him to pursue a degree in psychology and focus on how humans connect to nature. They delve into the Biophilia Hypothesis, which suggests that humans have an innate need…
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Ep. 111: First in Flight: An Interview with the First Female Pilot for a Major Airline
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Bonnie Tiburzi Caputo, born in Ridgefield, Conn., became the first female pilot for a major airline when she was hired by American Airlines in 1973. She shares how she fell in love with flying and the challenges of breaking the sex barrier in a male-dominated field.By Yankee Institute
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Anke Dietzsch: Effects of Pesticides on Native Bees and Honey Bees (030)
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In this episode of 2 Million Blossoms, host Dr. Kirsten Traynor sits down with Dr. Anke Dietzsch from the Institute for Bee Protection at the Julius Kühn Institute, Germany's Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants. Anke discusses her extensive research on the effects of pesticides on bee health, focusing on both honey bees and native wild be…
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Ep. 109: The State of Connecticut Sports with Joe D'Ambrosio
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Dan Hurley, the two-time NCAA champion coach, is staying with the UConn Huskies; Geno Auriemma signed a contract extension; the UConn baseball team made it to the Super Regional of the College World Series; and the WNBA Connecticut Sun is off to a great start. A lot is happening in Connecticut sports. Joe D’Ambrosio — a sportscaster known as the “V…
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Ep. 108: Defending Freedom through Venture Capitalism with Colin Greenspon
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“Defending the pillars of our democracy such as free speech and capitalism.” That is part of mission statement of Narya Capital, a venture capital firm founded by U.S. Senator J.D. Vance and Colin Greenspon. Greenspon joins Y CT Matters to discuss the organization’s philosophy and the importance of protecting democratic ideals. Learn more about Nar…
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Ep. 107: Race and Meritocracy with Andrew Quinio
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The Washington Free Beacon reported that up to half of UCLA’s medical students are failing basic tests of medical competence — and outlawed affirmative action practices are to blame. Andrew Quinio, an Equality & Opportunity Attorney at the Pacific Legal Foundation, provides insights into the legality of affirmative action in California, and how usi…
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Keeping Bees in Cameroon with Dr. Mazi Sanda (029)
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In this episode, host Dr. Kirsten Traynor welcomes bee scientist Dr. Mazi Sanda from Cameroon. Dr. Sanda, who currently resides in Germany as part of the PLAN4BEE project, shares his journey into the world of bees, starting from his childhood fascination with insects to his professional research at the University of Ngaoundere. He provides a captiv…
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Ep. 106: What Happened in the 2024 Session with Andy Markowski
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So what happened in the 2024 Legislative Session? Andy Markowski — Yankee Institute’s advisor on government affairs and principal of Statehouse Partners — breaks down the good, the bad and the ugly bills that passed or failed. Learn more about his work here.By Yankee Institute
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Ep. 105: Why Paying Striking Workers is Absurd with Frank Ricci
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The General Assembly wants to pay workers to strike? At the end of the Legislative Session, lawmakers passed a bill doing just that; however, Gov. Ned Lamont has voiced his opposition to the concept. Yankee Institute’s Labor Fellow Frank Ricci explains why paying striking workers is the “height of absurdity,” and how it will negatively impact Conne…
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Ep. 104: Building a Life of Success with Larry Janesky Part 2
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In this special two-part interview, Larry Janesky, owner and founder of Connecticut Basement Systems, shares his philosophy of building a successful business and his backstory: from a self-employed carpenter at 17 years old to overseeing thousands of employees. He was the recipient of Yankee Institute’s “Connecticut’s Future” Award at the 2024 Cham…
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Ep. 103: How CT Could Have Cut State Income Tax in Half with Themis Klarides and Jeffrey Sonnenfeld
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In this debut edition of Connecticut Conversations, Yankee Institute DistinguishedFellow and former Minority Leader Themis Klarides hosts a conversation with Prof. Jeffrey Sonnenfeld of Yale University on Connecticut’s public pension funds and its investment track record. The state’s underperformance has cost the state billions — so much so that si…
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Ep. 102: Building a Life of Success with Larry Janesky Part 1
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In this special two-part interview, Larry Janesky, owner and founder of Connecticut Basement Systems, shares his philosophy of building a successful business and his backstory: from a self-employed carpenter at 17 years old to overseeing thousands of employees. He is the recipient of Yankee Institute’s “Connecticut’s Future” Award at the 2024 Champ…
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Dr. Marla Spivak on Conquering Beekeeping Challenges (028)
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In this episode of 2 Million Blossoms, host Dr. Kirsten Traynor is joined by Dr. Marla Spivak, a renowned bee scientist and MacArthur Genius Award recipient. Together, they delve into the pivotal changes in beekeeping ushered in by the Varroa mite's arrival and explore the ongoing challenges it poses. Dr. Spivak shares insights from her decades of …
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Ep. 101: How to Make Energy More Affordable with Paul Bachman
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Connecticut’s people suffer from some of the highest electricity rates in the nation. Why is that? The issue stems from the Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) rules. Passed by the legislature in 1998, the RPS severely restricts the ability of utilities to find the cleanest and most efficient means of providing electricity to Connecticut’s residents…
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Ep. 100: Fighting for Free Speech With Humor with Seth Dillon
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It’s our 100th episode! To mark the significant milestone, Carol talked with Seth Dillon, CEO of The Babylon Bee, a satirical news site. Known for their conservative wit and “prophecies” (when jokes become reality), the Bee was famously locked out of its Twitter account over a joke. This action prompted Elon Musk to buy the social media giant. Dill…
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Ep. 99: Who is Carol Platt Liebau? Hosted by Andy Fowler
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For 98 episodes, YI President Carol Platt Liebau has discussed Connecticut policy, politics and human-interest stories as part of the organization’s efforts to be your eyes, ears and voice. But now the interviewer becomes the interviewee. Andy Fowler, director of internal affairs, guest hosts, asking Carol about her background, her love for Ronald …
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Ep. 98: How Scholarships Benefit Students with Tricia Tucker
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How do scholarships benefit students? And how would a tax credit, if passed by the General Assembly, boost providing more educational access to low-income children? Tricia Tucker, head teacher/principal at Fairfield County SDA School, shares students’ journeys from public to private schools and the impact scholarships have had on her school. Learn …
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Ep. 97: Solar and Wind Batteries' "Fatal Flaw" with Nick Pope
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The Independent System Operator-New England (ISO-NE) is warning that the batteries pushed by blue states in the region to prepare the grid for increased solar and wind generation may have significant trouble recharging in low temperatures. Nick Pope – a Connecticut native and Daily Caller contributor – shares further insights into the report. Find …
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Ep. 96: How Tax-Credit Scholarships Will Help Low-Income Students Thrive with Carolanne Marquis
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The Connecticut Center for Educational Excellence (CTCEE), a Yankee Institute project, launched just over a year ago, providing scholarships to low-income students and families across Connecticut. Carolanne Marquis, the CEO of CTCEE, shares how 900-plus families have applied for such scholarships, and how students have already benefited emotionally…
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Honey Bees and the Varroa Mite with Dr. David Peck (027)
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In this captivating episode of 2 Million Blossoms, host Dr. Kirsten Traynor sits down with Dr. David Peck, Director of Research and Education at Betterbee, to explore the intricate world of bees and the persistent challenge posed by varroa mites. Peck shares insights from his groundbreaking research, including his astonishing discovery of varroa mi…
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Ep. 95: Identifying Key Issues with New Senate Minority Leader Stephen Harding
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After his election to the 30th Senate District in 2023, Stephen Harding was named the Senate Minority Leader in February. He joins the show to share insights into key issues, such as housing, fiscal responsibility and electric vehicle mandates, as well as collaborating with different caucuses. Learn more about him here.…
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Ep. 94: The Positives & Challenges of Working in CT with Chris Ulbrich
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In a recent report by PJ Media, over 75% of red state business owners say they are happy in their current location, while only about 30% of blue state employers say the same. So what is it like doing business in Connecticut? Chris Ulbrich — CEO of Ulbrich Stainless Steels & Special Metals, Inc. — explains the positives and challenges of operating i…
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Ep. 93: George Washington's Legacy with Prof. Kevin Gutzman
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Who was George Washington? Why does he still matter in American life? Historian Kevin Gutzman, a professor and former chairman in the Department of History at Western Connecticut State University, returns to the podcast to share Washington’s monumental legacy and why he is worthy of praise today. His latest book The Jeffersonians is available now. …
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Flemming Vejsnæs - Beekeeping and Apimondia 2025 in Denmark
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In this episode of 2 Million Blossoms, host Dr. Kirsten Traynor sits down with Flemming Vejsnæs, a bee biologist and beekeeper from Denmark, to delve into bees and beekeeping in Denmark. Drawing on their long-standing friendship and Flemming's extensive experience, they explore the evolution of beekeeping, emphasizing the importance of global colla…
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Ep. 92: One Week Into Session with Bryce Chinault & Meghan Portfolio
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The General Assembly’s new legislative session began on Feb. 7. So what’s happened since then? More than you’d expect. Yankee Institute’s Bryce Chinault (Director of External Affairs) and Meghan Portfolio (Manager of Research and Analysis) break down what bills are being introduced and the scuttlebutt at the Capitol. Learn more on YI’s breakdown on…
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Ep. 91: FAQs about the Electrical Grid & Energy Infrastructure with Portia Conant
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What do we mean when we talk about the electrical grid? What are Independent System Operators (ISOs)? How will energy infrastructure and markets be impacted by electric vehicle mandates? Portia Conant — senior markets analyst from Yes Energy — joins the podcast to answer those questions and more. Learn more about Yes Energy here.…
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Ep. 90: Why the Fiscal Guardrails Were Established, and Why They Still Matter with Suzanne Bates
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The CT Mirror released a three-part series examining the effectiveness and viability of the 2017 bipartisan fiscal guardrails. Some state leaders believe they’re needed, others argue for reforms, and another contingent suggests eliminating the guardrails entirely. But Suzanne Bates — a former Yankee Institute Policy Director who sat on the Spending…
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Ep. 89: How Going “Green” Hurt California…And How It’ll Hurt CT with Edward Ring
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In 2004, Connecticut agreed to adopt California’s emissions standards. Fast forward 20 years, state lawmakers are now discussing how to implement electric vehicle (EV) mandates like the Golden State. But how has shifting to “green” energy impacted California? Edward Ring of the California Policy Center explains the detrimental effects, and why Conn…
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Ep. 88: The Presidential Primaries with Prof. Gary Rose
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With Donald Trump winning the Iowa Caucuses, how will the subsequent primaries play out, including Connecticut? How will the other candidates react? Prof. Gary Rose, who teaches political science at Sacred Heart University, gives insights to the 2024 Presidential Election.By Yankee Institute
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Ep. 87: The Problems of EV Mandates with Sen. Jeff Gordon
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Electric vehicle (EV) mandates have not been thought through, argues Sen. Jeff Gordon (R-35th District). From building sufficient infrastructure to being unable to charge EVs during power outages, there are a host of issues with the government mandates. However, Sen. Gordon expects EV mandates to be proposed during the session, starting Feb. 7.…
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2 Million Blossoms Podcast - 2024 Relaunch (025)
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Welcome back to the 2 Million Blossoms Podcast! In this special relaunch episode, host Kirsten Traynor sits down with Jeff Ott from the Beekeeping Today Podcast. They delve into Kirsten's recent adventures in Germany and the fascinating honey bee research she's been involved in. During the tumultuous times of the Covid pandemic, Kirsten seized an e…
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Ep. 86: Forecasting the 2024 Legislative Session with Eric Gjede
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From electric vehicle mandates to housing, what policies will be up for debate in the upcoming legislative session, beginning Feb. 7? Eric Gjede, a chief lobbyist at Statehouse Associates, shares his insights for what’s in store in 2024.By Yankee Institute
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Ep. 85: How CT Laws Hurt Local Restaurants
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The state’s restaurants are hurting, still recovering from the pandemic and overburdened by regulations. Meanwhile, a ‘one fair wage’ bill that’s been introduced in other states and is gaining traction here — which would mandate minimum wage for tipped workers — would make things even harder for businesses, limit workers’ income and make a night ou…
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Ep. 84: Christmas Movies in CT with Tricia Ennis
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By Yankee Institute
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Ep. 83: Antisemitism and Free Speech on College Campuses with Lauren Noble
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How has the Israel-Hamas war impacted free speech at Yale University and on other college campuses? Lauren Noble, executive director and founder of the Buckley Institute at Yale, shares insights onthe impact of increased antisemitism, and discusses a new study about how more students support shout downs than oppose them. Learn more about the Buckle…
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Ep. 82: What Hannukah Means with Rabbi Ari Weisenfeld
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What is Hanukkah and what does it mean for the Jewish people this year, especially in light of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas? Rabbi Ari Weisenfeld, director of Agudath Israel of America office in Connecticut, explains the holiday’s history and why it has been, and remains, a source of spiritual strength for the Jewish people over thousan…
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Ep. 81: Fighting Against Ballot Fraud in Bridgeport with Cameron Atkinson
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Video evidence of multiple people dumping votes into absentee ballot dropboxes in Bridgeport ignited controversy, a trial, and a new mayoral primary. But the perpetrators have not faced direct charges. So a group of city residents have filed a lawsuit on Nov. 21 demanding them to be arrested for ballot fraud. Cameron Atkinson, a criminal defense an…
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Ep. 80: The Woman Behind Thanksgiving Becoming a National Holiday with Mike Allegra
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How did Thanksgiving become a national holiday? Although President Abraham Lincoln issued a proclamation in 1863, much of the grassroots campaign is tied to the tenacity of Sarah Josepha Hale, editor of Godey’s Lady’s Book (the most widely circulated magazine at the time) and author of “Mary Had a Little Lamb.” Author Mike Allegra, who wrote Sarah …
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Ep. 79: How Nonprofits Can Innovate for Social Change with Leah Kral
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How can nonprofits and charitable organizations innovate their way toward new and exciting possibilities? Leah Kral — senior director of strategy and innovation at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University — studies just that in her latest book Innovation for Social Change: How Wildly Successful Nonprofits Inspire and Deliver Results. She expl…
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Ep. 78: How the Tax Foundation Ranked CT with Jared Walczak
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The Tax Foundation recently released its 2024 State Business Tax Climate Index. So where did Connecticut rank overall? How did Connecticut stack up against other states in varying subcategories? Jared Walczak, vice president of state projects for the Tax Foundation and author of the Index, explains Connecticut’s rankings and how it could improve. R…
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Ep. 77: The True Costs of Electric Vehicles with Brent Bennett
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Are electric vehicles (EVs) less expensive than their gas-powered counterparts? Are they destined to bethe future once the government mandates kick in? The simple answer: no. According to “Overcharged Expectations: Unmasking the True Costs of Electric Vehicles,” federal and state governments are driving the auto industry “off an economic cliff.” Br…
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Ep. 76: How 8-30g Has Failed in CT with David Flemming & Meghan Portfolio
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Since its implementation, 8-30g has not solved the affordable housing issue but instead has exacerbated it, say Yankee Institute’s David Flemming and Meghan Portfolio in the latest policy paper, Failure by Mandate: Connecticut and 8-30g. They explore the history behind 8-30g, its unanticipated consequences, how it undermines localism, and offer com…
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Ep. 75: Avoiding Over-Regulating Earned Wage Access with Justin Hosie
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Many Americans struggle with debt, living paycheck to paycheck. Going to a payday lender or credit card company may be a short-term solution, but a long-term issue with paying off the interest. However, earned wage access (EWA) is another solution. EWA — sometimes referred to as early pay — is the ability for employees to access a portion of their …
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Ep. 74: A Shelter is Failing Teen Girls with Michael Criss
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Harwinton has a problem. In the past two years, first responders have been called hundreds of times to the Short Term Assessment & Respite (STAR) Home, a DCF-funded shelter. There have been missing girls, stolen vehicles, burglaries, physical and sexual assaults, sex trafficking and injuries to both STAR residents and state troopers responding to m…
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Ep. 73: How a Teacher Beat the Labor Union with John Grande
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John Grande, a physical education teacher in Hartford, was reprimanded for his actions during a mandatory training on “privilege.” After filing a grievance with the local board of education, Grande reached out to the Hartford Federation of Teachers Local 1018 to take the matter to arbitration — but they wouldn’t because he was not “a paying member.…
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Ep. 72: Hurdles to Build a Small Business in CT
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Aaron Vnuk is the owner of the crossfit gym in North Haven and founder of Blind River Studios, an independent production company. He is also blind — but he continues to rise above challenges and pursue his dreams. However, Connecticut’s business climate has made it difficult for him as a small business owner to thrive with its regulatory and tax po…
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Ep. 71: Why CT’s Investments are Underperforming with Jeff Sonnenfeld & Steven Tian
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Connecticut’s public pension funds have one of the worst investment track records of any state in the nation with long-term, chronic investment underperformance, according to a report released by Yale Chief Executive Leadership Institute (CELI). With their research team, Prof. Jeffrey Sonnenfeld and Steven Tian investigated why Connecticut’s underp…
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Ep. 70: The Visionary Presidencies of Jefferson, Madison and Monroe with Historian Kevin Gutzman
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Historian Kevin Gutzman, a professor and former chairman in the Department of History at Western Connecticut State University, chronicles three titans of early American history: Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and James Monroe. These close political allies implemented the foreign policy, domestic and constitutional agenda of the opposition “Republi…
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Ep. 69: Exploring Connecticut’s Hidden History with Andy Fowler
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Connecticut has a deep-rooted history, and YI’s Andy Fowler is exploring it in a new series called, “Hidden in the Oak.” The goal: to fill readers with a sense of pride about the state we call home and make the past relevant to today. So far, the series has explored how Nutmeggers impacted the Battle of Gettysburg; the prominent baseball leagues an…
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