- Episode One
- Episode Two
- Episode Three
- Episode Four
- Episode Five
- Episode Six
- Episode Seven
- Episode Eight
- Episode Nine
- Episode Ten
- Episode Eleven
- Episode Twelve
- Episode Thirteen
- Episode Fourteen
- Episode Fifteen
- Episode Sixteen
- Episode Seventeen
- Episode Eighteen
- Episode Nineteen
- Episode Twenty
- Episode Twenty-One
- Episode Twenty-Two
- Episode Twenty-Three
- Episode Twenty-Four
- Episode Twenty-Five
- Episode Twenty-Six
- Episode Twenty-Seven
- Episode Twenty-Eight
- Live at Annual Meeting
- Live at Annual Meeting
- Live at Annual Meeting
- Episode Thirty
- Episode Thirty One
America at Its Best: Highlights
In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, Americans are facing many challenges to their way of life. Despite some of the bad news that has come from this unprecedented time in history, there is much room for optimism. To that end, State Policy Network has produced a new show for our supporters and partners that tells powerful stories of good news and fast solutions from the Network of 65 state-based think tanks and over 90 national partners across the country who are out there saving lives and livelihoods.
One of SPN’s board members, Adam Meyerson, recently said: “America at its best emerges right now. We see Americans taking charge as concerned citizens, such as neighbors helping neighbors, especially when expected government help is too slow to alleviate suffering. There are so many people in communities working together to find creative solutions. In crises of the past, Americans have risen to the challenge.”
This idea inspired the name of the show. We believe in the power of individuals working together to solve problems in their communities, and we are seeing examples of this throughout the Network every day.
Below are recordings of each episode. To learn more, please contact Victoria Bartolomeo at victoria@spn.org.
If you would like to receive updates on America at Its Best, please fill out the form on the bottom of the page.
View Past Episodes
- Episode One: Lifesaving Reforms in Michigan and Beyond
- Episode Two: Helping Businesses During the Coronavirus Crisis
- Episode Three: Public Opinion and Storytelling on the Coronavirus
- Episode Four: How the Coronavirus Has Changed K-12 Education
- Episode Five: Revitalizing State Economies
- Episode Six: Leading in Crisis
- Episode Seven: How the Response to the Coronavirus Has Impacted Our Civil Liberties
- Episode Eight: How to Accelerate Lifesaving Solutions
- Episode Nine: Bringing State Voices to Federal Policy
- Episode Ten: Protecting American Freedom Through Strategic Litigation
- Episode Eleven: Sensible Police Reform
- Episode Twelve: The Future of American Conservatism
- Episode Thirteen: Engaging Young Americans on Ideas of Liberty
- Episode Fourteen: The Overton Window for Education Reform: How the Network is Helping Families Navigate Education's Biggest Disruption
- Episode Fifteen: How the Pandemic Has Affected Higher Education
- Episode Sixteen: Preserving the Integrity of US Elections
- Episode Seventeen: SPN's Bob Williams Award Winners
- Episode Eighteen: How the Network is Driving the Economic Recovery in the States
- Episode Nineteen: Trends in the States Post-Election
- Episode Twenty: How Courthouses and Statehouses Could Shape 2021
- Episode Twenty-One: Looking to States and Communities, not DC, to Solve Problems in 2021
- Episode Twenty-Two: Bringing Accountability to State Governors – Cuomo Nursing Home Scandal
- Episode Twenty-Three: How the Network is Helping Kids Safely Return to the Classroom
- Episode Twenty-Four: A State Solution to Remove Red Tape for New Startups, Jobs, and the Economic Recovery
- Episode Twenty-Five: The Biggest School Choice Program in the Nation
- Episode Twenty-Six: Fighting Poverty and Joblessness through Welfare Reform
- Episode Twenty-Seven: How Network Leaders Helped Defeat the OSHA Vaccine Mandate
- Episode Twenty-Eight: Network Leaders Advance Historic Tax Reform
- Live at Annual Meeting: Paul Farago
- Live at Annual Meeting: Greg Sindelar
- Live at Annual Meeting: Randy Hicks
- Episode Thirty: Championing Education Freedom Through School Boards
- Episode Thirty-One: Why State Solutions are the Answer to America’s Energy Crisis
- Episode Thirty-Two: Network Leaders Secure Transformational Education Reform in Utah
- Episode Thirty-Three: Why Donor Privacy is an American Issue
- Episode Thirty-Four: The Power of the Courts - How the Network’s Strategic Litigation Defends the Rights of Everyday Americans
- Live at Annual Meeting: Interview with Governor Mitch Daniels
- Episode Thirty-Five: How Housing Reforms are Building the American Dream
- Episode Thirty-Six: 2024 Legislative Preview
- Episode Thirty-Seven: 2024 Legislative Recap
- Episode Thirty-Eight: An Interview with Scott Rasmussen
- Episode Thirty-Nine: An Interview with Governor Doug Ducey
Episode Thirty-Nine: An Interview with Governor Doug Ducey
Former Arizona Governor Doug Ducey sits down with SPN Vice President of Strategic Partnerships Rebecca Painter to look back on the successes that marked his tenure as governor, such as Arizona's passage of school choice, and the effect it has had on the nation. Thanks to the courageous efforts of Gov. Ducey, Arizona set the stage for many state-level reforms to be replicated across the country, leading to widespread change. Gov. Ducey also shares his experience working with SPN and its network as an elected official, noting the invaluable partnership that the Network can provide.
Speakers:
- Doug Ducey, Former Arizona Governor
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Thirty-Eight: An Interview with Scott Rasmussen
With the presidential election on the horizon, many polls see the race as too close to call. American pollster Scott Rasmussen joins SPN Vice President of Strategic Partnerships Rebecca Painter to give his insights on what voters may be able to expect in November, and his perspective as to why the last several elections have been so neck-in-neck.
Speakers:
- Scott Rasmussen, RMG Research
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Thirty-Seven: 2024 Legislative Recap
The last several years have seen a tidal wave of good public policy being passed at the state level. From expanded school choice to tax reforms that put more money back into the pockets of hardworking Americans, the 2024 Legislative session firmly carried on this trend. In this episode of America at Its Best, SPN Vice President of Strategic Partnerships Rebecca Painter sits down with Grassroot Institute of Hawaii President and CEO Keli'i Akina and Pelican Institute for Public Policy Vice President for Policy and Strategy Erin Bendily to discuss some of the monumental reforms that were carried over the finish line in Hawaii and Louisiana.
Speakers:
- Keli'i Akina, Ph.D.
- Erin Bendily, Ph.D.
- Rebecca Painter
Episode Thirty-Six: 2024 Legislative Preview
While many Americans are focused on Washington, DC, and the 2024 presidential election, there are significant policy battles taking place in statehouses all over the country that will impact the American people. In this special episode of America at Its Best, SPN experts Todd Davidson, Jane McEnaney, Michael Lucci, and Amy Oliver Cooke give key insights into the most pressing issues facing Americans in 2024, like energy, education, fiscal policy, and healthcare. These experts share how the states are uniquely positioned to address these challenges and how SPN and the Network are accelerating reforms and elevating them to the national stage.
Speakers:
- Todd Davidson, State Policy Network
- Jane McEnaney, State Policy Network
- Michael Lucci, State Policy Network
- Amy Oliver Cooke, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Thirty-Five: How Housing Reforms are Building the American Dream
Part of the American Dream once meant purchasing a home, but many prospective homeowners cannot afford the extraordinary prices of today's housing market. Through innovative housing reforms, Network leaders are once again making the dream of home ownership a reality. In this episode of America at Its Best, we sat down with Network CEOs Kendall Cotton (Frontier Institute) and Kyle Wingfield (Georgia Public Policy Foundation), who shared with us how they are breaking down barriers to homeownership and leveraging quality research and bipartisan coalitions to advance reforms that other states can learn from and adapt for their citizens.
Speakers:
- Kendall Cotton, Frontier Institute
- Kyle Wingfield, Georgia Public Policy Foundation
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Live at Annual Meeting: Interview with Governor Mitch Daniels
In the latest episode of America at Its Best, we sat down with Governor Daniels to talk about the importance of leadership in the states, how states can serve as a model for the federal government, and how members of SPN’s 50-state Network play a critical role in advancing positive reforms around the country.
Speakers:
- Governor Mitch Daniels
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Thirty-Four: The Power of the Courts - How the Network’s Strategic Litigation Defends the Rights of Everyday Americans
Through the power of the courts, the 50-state Network is pushing back against one-size-fits-all mandates from state and federal governments that do not serve the interests of the American people. In this episode, we sit down with Robert Alt, president and CEO of The Buckeye Institute, who shares how the state think tank has become a powerhouse in the litigation space and developed a successful track record of defending the individual rights of Americans in circuit courts all the way to the United States Supreme Court. Robert shares why the Network’s state-based litigation centers are critical in defending the powers delegated to state and local governments against the bureaucracy and overreach of the federal government.
Speakers:
- Robert Alt, The Buckeye Institute
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Thirty-Three: Why Donor Privacy is an American Issue
In today’s political climate, activists have used the personal information of philanthropists to target and harass them for their personal beliefs and values. Consequentially, Americans have lost their jobs, their reputations have been damaged, and in some extreme cases, their lives have been threatened.
Thanks to a group of SPN donors, People United for Privacy (PUFP) was created to address this important issue and protect every American’s fundamental right to free speech, regardless of the causes they choose to support. Since its foundation in 2018, PUFP has successfully passed bipartisan-supported legislation in 17 states (Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia). In this episode, Heather Lauer, CEO of People United for Privacy shares how PUFP is building strong coalitions to advance multistate reforms that protect Americans’ privacy and their ability to support causes and organizations they believe in without reservation.
Speakers:
- Heather Lauer, People United for Privacy
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Thirty-Two: Network Leaders Secure Transformational Education Reform in Utah
Education reforms continue to sweep the nation as families demand better options beyond the status quo. SPN partnered with the Libertas Institute and the in-state coalition to help Utah pass historic education reform through the "Utah Fits All" Scholarship, a universal Education Savings Account Program. This reform will enable 5,000 families in the first year to access education funds to find an education that meets their needs.
In this episode, Connor Boyack, CEO of the Libertas Institute, and SPN director of education policy initiatives, Jane McEnaney, share how the SPN Network leveraged the collective influence of individual organizations and worked alongside state legislators to secure education freedom for families in Utah. As more students seek access to new education opportunities, Connor and Jane share Libertas and SPN’s plans to help education entrepreneurs break down regulatory barriers and expand innovative learning models to meet demand.
Speakers:
- Connor Boyack, Libertas Institute
- Jane McEnaney, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Thirty-One: Why State Solutions are the Answer to America’s Energy Crisis
Rising costs and inflation continue to burden everyday Americans. In addition, the federal government is attempting to pass sweeping energy mandates and regulations that increase costs and put the reliability of already overloaded energy grids at risk. To address these challenges, Network leaders are working closely together to stop harmful state policies while offering tangible solutions to help communities access affordable, reliable energy.
In this episode, John Hinderaker, CEO of the Center of the American Experiment, shares how his organization used key research and a cost analysis model to stop federal energy mandates in the Build Back Better Act. Thanks to these efforts, Americans will not face the massive costs they would have incurred if the original legislation had passed. John also shares how state solutions are the key to accessing affordable energy and securing energy independence for communities.
Speakers:
- John Hinderaker, Center of the American Experiment
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Thirty: Championing Education Freedom Through School Boards
Parents are leading the charge to take back our country’s education system, and many are doing so at the ballot box with their local school boards. The SPN Network serves as a critical resource to help turn the tide on education so children have more choices and opportunities to succeed. Thanks to our supporters, not only have we advanced historic education reforms, but we are also having an influence on education leaders like school board members who can advance good education policies that champion student outcomes.
In this episode, Amy Oliver Cooke, CEO of the John Locke Foundation, shares how Locke helped parents become effective school board candidates by providing key resources like policy briefings and media training. The result of these efforts included six local school boards flipped and another dozen pro-education choice candidates elected to office. Amy also shares Locke’s plans for a regional partnership with Network leaders in South Carolina, and how they will expand education reforms in 2023 and beyond.
“I have to thank you all at SPN. North Carolinians may not know who they have to thank, but without the resources, we couldn’t have done it,” said Amy. “And we couldn’t have done it without your leadership. You all provide a model that we use. We don’t go to a local group and tell them what their issues are. We try to make them effective at advocating for their issues and become a trusted ally for them.”
Speakers:
- Amy O. Cooke, John Locke Foundation
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Live at Annual Meeting: Randy Hicks
SPN’s founder, Thomas Roe was a successful businessman and philanthropist who believed in the power of federalism and lead the charge in developing bastions of liberty in every state. Each year at Annual Meeting, we recognize leaders in the states whose achievements have advanced and expanded free-market policy solutions with our flagship Thomas A. Roe Award.
This year, we were honored to present the Thomas Roe Award to Randy Hicks, CEO and President of the Georgia Center for Opportunity (GCO). Randy has led the GCO team to create successful statewide initiatives that break the cycle of poverty in communities, but also connect individuals with meaningful job opportunities, regardless of their background. GCO has not only become a model in the state of Georgia for these efforts and has also worked outside the state to share its success and help other states start similar initiatives.
Speaking on the work of GCO and how the Network has made an impact over the last 30 years, Randy said: “When I joined this Network ten years ago, I was inspired and challenged by leaders in the Network. I thought, ‘It’s great that people are accomplishing these great things. I hope we can accomplish great things as well.’ The significance of this award is it really signifies good work, it signifies impact, and it’s an amazing honor.”
Speakers:
- Randy Hicks, Georgia Center for Opportunity
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Live at Annual Meeting: Greg Sindelar
Every year at Annual Meeting, SPN recognizes nonprofit leaders in the state-based, free-market Network who embody the qualities of leadership, loyalty, humility, and support for the cause of liberty with the Overton Award. The award is named after Joe Overton, a respected and beloved member of the liberty movement and a creator of what is now widely known as the “Overton Window,” a teaching tool that helps people to put policy before political action. The Overton Window also drives home the importance of seizing opportunities to advance critical policy solutions when they arise.
We sat down with the 2022 Overton Award winner Greg Sindelar, CEO of the Texas Public Policy Foundation, who shared with us the impact of Joe Overton’s legacy and how he’s seen the Network advance policy solutions that can be customized not just for one community or state, but for many. Greg has served at TPPF for over 15 years, overseeing the Foundation’s policy and strategy development efforts, and now as CEO. Through his leadership, Greg has helped TPPF grow into the powerhouse organization it is today.
In our conversation, Greg noted the important role that this Network plays in cultivating and supporting freedom movement leaders. “As you go to Annual Meeting and you meet folks from these different think tanks, you realize what a bigger support system there is out there,” he said. “When you don’t know what to do next or the answer to something, to know that you have people to call on is a huge benefit to all of us.”
Speakers:
- Greg Sindelar, Texas Public Policy Foundation
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Live at Annual Meeting: Paul Farago
At this year’s 30th Annual Meeting, over 1,400 attendees, representing over 400 organizations from 48 states, traveled to Atlanta, Georgia where Network leaders and supporters gathered to connect, plan, and strategize policy solutions that will empower Americans to live freer, more prosperous lives.
The reason this Network can accomplish victories for freedom is simple: supporters who make all of our work possible. At SPN’s 30th Annual Meeting, we spoke with Paul Farago, a loyal SPN supporter of over 20 years, who shared with us how he has seen the Network grow and expand freedom and opportunity for Americans. “I think when we first started, we had a vision of how this Network would grow over time and how it would mature and become a real force for action in the states and all over the country,” said Paul. “From what I measure, that’s happening and it’s happening to great effect.”
Speakers:
- Paul Farago, SPN Supporter
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Twenty-Eight: Network Leaders Advance Historic Tax Reform
With inflation rates soaring, everyday Americans are keeping less of their paychecks due to the rising prices in gas, groceries, and other essential items. In response to these challenges, SPN affiliates, Empower Mississippi and Iowans for Tax Relief Foundation, pushed for reforms that would relieve citizens of tax burdens, while offering a pathway for expanded economic growth and opportunity in their communities. As a result, each state passed historic tax reform that can serve as models for other states.
In this episode, Network leaders Grant Callen, Founder and CEO of Empower Mississippi, and John Hendrickson, Policy Director of Iowans for Tax Relief Foundation, discuss how these tax reforms can serve as a roadmap for economic relief and prosperity in states across the nation.
Speakers:
- Grant Callen, Empower Mississippi
- John Hendrickson, Iowans for Tax Relief
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Twenty-Seven: How Network Leaders Helped Defeat the OSHA Vaccine Mandate
In this episode, Network leaders from the Pelican Institute in Louisiana and The Buckeye Institute in Ohio share stories of how their strategic litigation helped topple one of the biggest examples of government overreach in 2021: The Biden administration's vaccine mandate on private businesses.
Speakers:
- Robert Alt, The Buckeye Institute
- Daniel Erspamer, Pelican Institute
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Twenty-Six: Fighting Poverty and Joblessness through Welfare Reform
One of the biggest obstacles to fighting poverty and joblessness is our nation’s broken welfare system. The Georgia Center for Opportunity has developed a one-of-a-kind model to measure the impact of “benefits cliffs” in the system that discourage workers from advancing in their careers and keep them locked in a cycle of poverty.
Now, GCO’s model has the attention of policymakers and businesses eager to fix the worker shortage crisis in America and help people improve their overall wellbeing through meaningful job opportunities. In this episode, Randy Hicks, CEO of the Georgia Center for Opportunity, explains why the time is now to act and ensure this model spreads to multiple states for national impact. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Randy Hicks, The Georgia Center for Opportunity
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Twenty-Five: The Biggest School Choice Program in the Nation
In America, where you live often determines where you go to school. This one-size-fits-all approach to education hurts low-income families the most, who often live in districts with a poor-performing school. But, thanks to a multiyear effort by the Cardinal Institute, West Virginia passed the most expansive school choice legislation in the country, which will expand educational opportunity for hundreds of thousands of children in the Mountain State. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Garrett Ballengee, Cardinal Institute
- Lynn Harsh, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Twenty-Four: A State Solution to Remove Red Tape for New Startups, Jobs, and the Economic Recovery
Across America, entrepreneurs and innovators are ready to go into business, but archaic and rigid regulations are standing in the way. States can get around this red tape by creating regulatory sandboxes which allow these new businesses to work outside of unnecessary regulations. Connor Boyack from the Libertas Institute joined us to share how they are turning the page on state regulatory reform in Utah as we know it–and using the power of this Network to help other states follow their lead. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Connor Boyack, Libertas Institute
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Twenty-Three: How the Network is Helping Kids Safely Return to the Classroom
After nearly a year at home, students in Chicago Public Schools have finally returned to the classroom, thanks in part to the efforts of the Liberty Justice Center. Using the power of their litigation and communications capabilities, they took on “the most militant teachers union in the country” and created change that is already spreading to other states. In this episode, we have a conversation with Diana Rickert from LJC to learn about their efforts and what it means for students across the country. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Diana Rickert, Liberty Justice Center
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Twenty-Two: Bringing Accountability to State Governors – Cuomo Nursing Home Scandal
In this episode, Empire Center CEO Tim Hoefer tells the story of how they helped expose Governor Cuomo's coverup of the nursing home death count. Empire Center's work spans beyond this one national story, however, into one that shows just how important Network organizations can be in restoring transparency and accountability to state governments. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Tim Hoefer, Empire Center for Public Policy
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Twenty-One: Looking to States and Communities, not DC, to Solve Problems in 2021
While most conversation surrounds what is happening in Washington, DC, there are significant opportunities in states and communities across the countries to solve some of the country's greatest challenges. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Yuval Levin, American Enterprise Institute
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Twenty: How Courthouses and Statehouses Could Shape 2021
In our final episode of 2020, Leonard Leo discussed what to expect from the new makeup of the courts and why SPN's work in the states is critical to key litigation strategies. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Leonard Leo, CRC Advisors and the Federalist Society
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Nineteen: Trends in the States Post-Election
In this episode, we discussed what the changes in the political landscape will mean for advancing freedom in the states, and ways in which this is truly the State Moment. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Matt Paprocki, Illinois Policy Institute
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Eighteen: How the Network is Driving the Economic Recovery in the States
In this episode, we discussed solutions coming from this Network to revitalize state economies, help businesses reopen, shore up state budgets, and get Americans back to work. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Justin Owen, Beacon Center of Tennessee
- Michael Lucci, State Policy Network
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Seventeen: SPN's Bob Williams Award Winners
In this episode, we invited the winners of SPN's coveted Bob Williams Awards to discuss their successful policy solutions that have made lives better in their states. We also discussed the 2020 Network Award dedicated to the biggest multi-state win of the year. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Carol Liebau, Yankee Institute for Public Policy
- John Hinderaker, Center of the American Experiment
- Charles Mitchell, Commonwealth Foundation
- Phil Williams, Alabama Policy Institute
- Kathleen O'Hearn, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Sixteen: Preserving the Integrity of US Elections
In this episode, we discussed the importance of conducting fair, honest elections and what the current debate could mean for the future of our democracy. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Rick Esenberg, Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty
- Jason Snead, Honest Elections Project
- Trent England, Save Our States
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Fifteen: How the Pandemic Has Affected Higher Education
In this episode, we discuss the existential crisis facing higher education as well as areas where universities can innovate to provide higher quality, affordable options for students. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Jim Stergios, Pioneer Institute
- Debbie Fowler, Western Governors University
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Fourteen: The Overton Window for Education Reform: How the Network is Helping Families Navigate Education's Biggest Disruption
In this episode, we discussed how the Network has positioned itself to help families navigate disruption to education, and the related shifts in the Overton Window that allow for meaningful reform. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Dr. Bob McClure, James Madison Institute
- Ellen Weaver, Palmetto Promise Institute
- Katherine Bathgate, State Policy Network
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Thirteen: Engaging Young Americans on Ideas of Liberty
In this episode, we discussed how this Network is engaging young Americans today on ideas of liberty that will have an impact for future generations. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Grace Fendrick, Georgia Center for Opportunity
- David Boze, Washington Policy Center
- Zilvinas Silenas, Foundation for Economic Education
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Twelve: The Future of American Conservatism
In this episode, we discussed "conservative fusionism" and the changing dynamics of the conservative party over time, as well as ways for parties to come together towards common goals. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- John Hood, John William Pope Foundation
- Tony Woodlief, State Policy Network
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Eleven: Sensible Police Reform
In this episode we discuss balancing public safety with comprehensive reform to protect liberty and ensure equality before the law. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Tim Hoefer, Empire Center
- Patrick Jaicomo, Institute for Justice
- Tony Woodlief, State Policy Network
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Ten: Protecting American Freedom Through Strategic Litigation
In this episode, we discussed how the courts are a resource for state leaders to promote and protect liberty. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Carrie Ann Donnel, American Juris Link
- Samuel MacRoberts, Kansas Justice Institute
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Nine: Bringing State Voices to Federal Policy
In this episode, we discussed how the federal government is looking to state leaders for solutions that empower states to make the best decisions for their citizens. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Jim Vokal, Platte Institute
- Jennifer Butler, State Policy Network
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Eight: How to Accelerate Lifesaving Solutions
In this episode, we discussed how SPN's Network partners are putting forth solutions to help accelerate lifesaving medical innovations. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Naomi Lopez, Goldwater Institute
- Daniel Rothschild, Mercatus Center at George Mason University
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Seven: How the Response to the Coronavirus Has Impacted Our Civil Liberties
In this episode, we discussed efforts to defend and shine light on the impact the pandemic and government response have had on American civil liberties. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Nick Gillespie, Reason
- Connor Boyack, Libertas Institute
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Six: Leading in Crisis
In this episode, we heard from Network leaders who are showing what it means to lead in crisis. Their institutions are solving problems related to the coronavirus pandemic and paving the way for opportunities in the months ahead. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Kevin Roberts, Texas Public Policy Foundation
- Carol Platt Liebau, Yankee Institute
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Five: Revitalizing State Economies
In this episode, we discussed which policies this Network is pursuing to help state governments safely and effectively reopen while setting the stage for economic growth going forward. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Taylor Dawson, Beacon Center of Tennessee
- Rea Hederman, The Buckeye Institute
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Four: How the Coronavirus Has Changed K-12 Education
In this episode, we assessed the current landscape in education and what this Network is doing to help parents navigate these uncharted waters. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Jonathan Butcher, Heritage Foundation
- Libby Sobic, Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty
- Katherine Bathgate, State Policy Network
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Three: Public Opinion and Storytelling on the Coronavirus
In this episode, we discussed how American attitudes have changed since the start of the pandemic, as well as effective storytelling to capture the impact of the crisis thus far. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Erin Norman, Heart & Mind Strategies
- Ryan Greene, Illinois Policy Institute
- Carrie Conko, State Policy Network
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode Two: Helping Businesses During the Coronavirus Crisis
In this episode, we discussed how members of this Network are helping businesses navigate evolving policy changes and get people back to work safely. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Rob Arnott, Research Affiliates
- Charles Mitchell, Commonwealth Foundation
- Randy Hicks, Georgia Center for Opportunity
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
Episode One: Lifesaving Reforms in Michigan and Beyond
In this episode, we discussed how the window of opportunity has opened for governors to enact market-based healthcare solutions that are giving patients greater access to care, and doctors greater access to much-needed medical supplies. (Link to Video)
Speakers:
- Joseph Lehman, Mackinac Center for Public Policy
- Lindsay Killen, Mackinac Center for Public Policy
- Tracie Sharp, State Policy Network
- Rebecca Painter, State Policy Network
- Russ Walker, State Policy Network