Afleveringen
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Book bans in U.S. public schools and libraries have continued to escalate in 2024, with PEN America reporting a significant rise in the number of book challenges, particularly those addressing race, gender, and LGBTQ+ themes. The group found hundreds of books targeted for removal or restriction, reflecting broader efforts led by organizations like Moms for Liberty, which pushes to limit access to books they deem inappropriate for children. The Southern Poverty Law Center has reported that these efforts often align with political and ideological movements, aiming to restrict educational content. Critics argue that these bans harm intellectual freedom and limit students' exposure to diverse perspectives.
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Predatory lending through earned wage advance apps and payday loans disproportionately targets vulnerable low-wage workers, particularly those in the gig economy or service industries, many who earn less than $50K per year. These individuals, often living paycheck to paycheck, are drawn to the promise of quick cash but are hit with exorbitant interest rates, sometimes exceeding 300% APR's. According to the Center for Responsible Lending, these high rates and hidden fees can quickly spiral out of control, trapping borrowers in a cycle of debt. Instead of providing relief, these loans often exacerbate financial instability, leaving workers worse off and caught in a cycle of borrowing just to stay afloat.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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The ongoing discussion around NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals, their tax implications, and the future of college athletics has been heating up in recent years. One key topic is whether NIL deals should be tax-exempt, with some arguing that athletes should not be taxed for using their own name and likeness, while others maintain that they should be treated like any other form of earned income. In this episode I discuss NIL deals, states that are pushing for tax exemptions on NIL Deals, and the House Vs. NCAA settlement.
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The opioid settlement, which resulted in billions of dollars from major pharmaceutical companies like Johnson & Johnson, McKesson, Cardinal Health, and AmerisourceBergen, is designed to address the opioid crisis by funding addiction treatment, prevention, and recovery efforts. Critics argue that the distribution process lacks transparency and being misdirected toward administrative costs rather than direct support for addiction recovery.
In this episode I discuss the opioid settlement, where the money is going and what is currently the state of the opioid crisis in America. -
Wage theft is a serious issue in the United States, particularly affecting low-wage workers like restaurant staff, retail employees, and home care workers. Employers often fail to pay employees for overtime, force them to work off the clock, or withhold tips, leaving workers with less than they’re owed. It’s estimated that U.S. workers lose billions of dollars each year due to wage theft. While some states have enacted stronger laws and enforcement mechanisms, the problem persists, and many workers are unaware of their rights or too afraid to report abuse. In this episode I reivew where this occurring, who is most affected and what is being done to prevent it.
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In 2024, the U.S. sports betting industry experienced unprecedented growth. This surge in betting activity led to a record $13.71 billion in revenue significantly up from 2023's numbers. However, this expansion has been accompanied by a significant rise in gambling addiction. While the sports betting industry has achieved record revenues, this growth has been accompanied by increased gambling addiction rates and a concerning decline in the financial stability of a significant portion of the U.S. population. In this episode I review sports betting in the U.S., the addiction its creating and the cost its having on the bettors finances. #pgam2025
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The U.S. faces a growing national debt. President trump has proposed reductions in civilian government workers in an effort to curb spending, aiming to decrease the size of the federal workforce and reduce operational costs. Taxes are primarily collected to support these large-scale programs and fund government operations, but with a large debt load and increasing healthcare costs, the financial strain on the system continues to grow. In this episode I discuss U.S. government spending, U.S. debt and the billions of dollars lost each year because of Medicare/Medicaid fraud.
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The turnover of superintendents in school districts across the United States has become a significant concern, with many districts experiencing frequent changes in leadership. This instability in leadership can have a profound impact on both the functioning of school districts and the education of children. This disruption is further compounded by the fact that superintendents often receive substantial buyouts as part of their contracts when they leave, whether through resignation or termination. These buyouts, often funded by public resources, can be seen as an unnecessary financial burden on the district, diverting funds that could be better spent on direct educational initiatives. In this episode of peoples voice podcast and I discuss the school superintendent issue in American public schools.
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People leave their jobs in the U.S. for a variety of reasons, including seeking better pay, career growth, work-life balance, or a more supportive work environment. However, studies have shown race can play a significant role in these decisions as well. The decision to leave a job is often influenced not just by personal career goals, but by the broader social and organizational dynamics that impact an individual’s experience in the workplace. In this episode I discuss why people leave their jobs and the influence race has on those decisions. -
The escalating cost of homeowners insurance in the 21st century has raised concerns about its role in perpetuating discrimination, particularly among people of color. For many Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous families, the cost of insurance becomes an insurmountable barrier to protecting their homes, leading to higher rates of underinsurance or going without coverage altogether. Many argue that the situation represents a form of modern discrimination that exacerbates long-standing racial and economic divides.
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Dry January, a month-long challenge where individuals abstain from alcohol, has gained significant traction in recent years as part of a broader global shift toward reduced alcohol consumption. This trend is particularly pronounced among Gen Z, a generation that is increasingly rejecting excessive drinking in favor of healthier lifestyles. Studies show that globally, alcohol consumption has been declining, with younger generations leading the charge. in this episode I discuss this movement, the health effects and how this will continue to change the global landscape of drinking habits in the coming years.
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New Year, New You.....Right?
Goal planning and self-assessment are powerful tools for personal growth and achievement. By clearly defining our goals, we create a roadmap for success, which helps us stay focused and motivated. Self-assessment allows us to reflect on our progress, identify strengths and areas for improvement, and make necessary adjustments along the way. One of the most effective practices in goal-setting is writing down your goals, as it transforms abstract desires into concrete objectives. This simple act of writing helps manifest your intentions by reinforcing your commitment and clarifying your vision. In this episode I discuss these practices. -
In a time that is typically associated with joy, togetherness, and celebration, domestic violence often increases during the holiday season. Experts have said the pressure to meet societal expectations of family togetherness, gift-giving, and financial stability can create stress, frustration, and conflict, which may escalate into abusive behavior. Abusers may use the holiday season as an opportunity to exert control over their victims, manipulating them emotionally or physically under the guise of maintaining "family traditions" or appearances.
In this episode I discuss domestic violence during the holidays, the signs to look out for and how to get help.
Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233 -
According to a recent WalletHub survey, U.S. consumers are still paying off debt from last holiday season. To make matters worse more and more Americans relying on credit cards and other forms of debt to cover the cost of gifts, travel, and other seasonal expenses. What many dont realize is that debt can create a ripple effect, contributing to higher stress levels, anxiety, and several other physical health issues. In this episode I discuss holiday debt, its effects and how to avoid it.
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Despite spending more on healthcare than any other nation, the U.S. consistently lags behind in key metrics like life expectancy, access to care, and overall population health. One concerning aspect is the salary disparity within nonprofit hospitals, where many CEOs are earning salaries in the millions, raising questions about the ethical implications of such high compensation in institutions that are meant to serve the public good. In this episode of I discuss the perceptions of the U.S. Healthcare system compared to its realities.
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Thanksgiving, as a national holiday in the United States, continues to be celebrated each year, but it is increasingly being questioned due to its origins rooted in violent colonialism and the displacement of Indigenous peoples. While the holiday is often framed as a time for giving thanks and enjoying family gatherings, it is important to acknowledge that its origins was part of a broader pattern of colonization that led to the genocide and forced assimilation of Indigenous communities. The celebration of Thanksgiving often overlooks the suffering and loss endured by Native Americans, whose land and cultures were violently taken from them in the centuries following. In this episode I discuss this history and question why we are still continuing to celebrate Thanksgiving
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Church closings have become a growing concern in many communities, especially in the wake of changing demographics, financial struggles, and shifts in religious practices. As congregations shrink and maintenance costs rise, some churches find it increasingly difficult to sustain their operations, leading to closures. In this episode I discuss church closings in the U.S. and why they are closing.
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Owning a food truck can be a rewarding business, offering flexibility and the opportunity to serve diverse communities while capitalizing on the growing trend of mobile dining. The cost of outfitting a food truck and ongoing maintenance can be significant, but with a strong brand and a well-curated menu, a food truck can attract a loyal customer base. For customers considering eating at a food truck, there are several key things to look out for to ensure both safety and quality. In this episode, I review both sides of the food truck phenomenon, from an ownership standpoint and what things to look out for as a customer.
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By 2045, demographic projections indicate a significant decline in the white population in the United States, primarily due to lower birth rates and increased diversity through immigration and higher birth rates among non-white groups. This shift is likely to reshape the political landscape, as the electorate becomes more diverse, bringing new perspectives and priorities to the forefront. In this episode I discuss the changes the decline in the white population will have on the political landscape moving forward.
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Voting in local elections is crucial. While national figures like Kamala Harris and Donald Trump often dominate headlines, local leaders make decisions that affect our daily lives—like funding for schools, public safety, and infrastructure. Eventhough local elections do the most to empowers citizens voter turnout in these elections remain low. In this episode I talk about the impact and the importance of voiting in local elections.
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