Up From Last Place: Improving Education in our State with Fred Nathan, Jr. of Think New Mexico

Up From Last Place: Improving Education in our State with Fred Nathan, Jr. of Think New Mexico

New Mexico spends more on education per pupil than most other states, but ranks near the bottom on student outcomes for math and reading proficiency. Why is that, and what can be done? The answers may surprise. Donovan and Gary talk with Fred Nathan, Jr., the founder and Executive Director of Think New Mexico [https://www.thinknewmexico.org], which has has been instrumental in reforming state government: successfully pushing to implement all day kindergarten, remove the sales tax on groceries, end predatory lending and most recently pushing legislation to address the acute shortage of doctors and other health care providers in our state. Fred talks about additional steps needed to bring more psychologists, EMTS, and PTs to practice here. But his analysis of our lopsided educational system--heavy on highly paid administrators while short-changing classrooms--is eye opening.

Voting Rights and Wrongs: A Conversation with Gene Grant

Earlier this month the U.S. Supreme Court destroyed what was left of the landmark 1965 Voting Rights Act that for the first time in Amerrican history gave blacks access to the ballot box and a voice in their own government. Already states across old Dixie are redrawing lines to dilute minority representation in Congress. Donovan and Gary discuss the decision and its implications with Gene Grant, Executive Director of the New Mexico Office of African American Affairs, who despite the setback sees glimmers of hope on the horizon.

Archbishop John Wester on Trump's Immoral War

When if ever is war justified? Donovan and Gary are honored to speak with the Archbishop of Santa Fe John Wester, who reflects on the dubious morality of America's war with Iran in light of Roman Catholic teachings that reach back to Augustine and Aquinas which but remain more relevant than ever. Archbishop Wester shares his vision for a better path to peace.

Breaking Big Money's Grip on America

Billionaires with deep pockets have an outsized influence on electoral politics, turning government of and by the people into a system that serves the ultra-wealthy and well-connected. Donovan and Gary talk with Bruce Berlin, the author of Breaking Big Money's Grip on America to under stand the scope of the challenge and explore remedies to return power to ordinary citizens.

Protecting Reproductive Freedom with Faith Roots

Amanda Diaz, Exective Director of Faith Roots Reproductive Action, assists women traveling to New Mexico to receive abortions, offering support with lodging, food and other practical necessities. Where are these women coming from and what conditions force them to seek health care here ? Co-hosts Donovan and Gary talk with Amanda about the effort to protect women's bodily autonomy.