x

75% of people globally want unbiased news (Pew Research) but are concerned they're not getting that.

Get balanced coverage with Symby. See how stories are covered across diverse outlets and spot when one side covers a story the other skips.

PODCAST

Local Matters Podcast

Local Matters by Janice Allen Jackson

Local and state governments, though often overshadowed by federal government, have tremendous impact on our quality of life. This podcast provides a valuable service by educating people on how to improve their own quality of life through civic engagement. Various organizations encourage residents to register and vote, but it does not appear that anyone is showing voters how to make good decisions when they do. It feels akin to hiring someone for a job without reviewing the job description. Local

government

All Episodes

00:40:18

Are There Enough Good People Seeking Public Office?

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/09/24

Eva Posner of Evinco Strategies shares lessons learned from assisting people who want to serve in elected office. We discuss imposter syndrome, body shaming, and other things that prevent women from seeking office. We also touch upon corruption, burnout, the discipline required to raise funds, and how good elected officials are fundamentally problem solvers who are determined to make a difference, particularly at the local level. We also ask the following question: Are there enough good people

en

00:37:47

Why We are so Divided and What Can we do About It?

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/09/17

Shannon Watson is the Founder and Executive Director of Majority in the Middle, where she provides civic education in an effort to demystify government. We explore the role of national politics, media, and human nature in ensuring continued division at al levels of government. Are there conflict engineers dictating this? Have we put up artificial barriers? Are there too many moral absolutes? What is the key to building better understanding? What can the average person to help us all get along

en

00:54:34

Is Feeling Another's Pain the Route to Activism and...

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/09/10

In this episode of Local Matters, we sit down with author, counselor, and lifelong activist Beth Green to unpack spiritual activism—and how empathy, accountability, and oneness can heal our politics and our daily lives. Beth shares her journey from atheist to spiritually guided counselor, what it means to be an empath, and why secrecy and ego keep us stuck. We also explore Christian nationalism, justice, and the practical tools she teaches for living with reality and supporting one another.

en

00:45:27

Why Do Black Women Feel so Invisible While Pushing...

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/09/03

Dr. Sherice Janaye Nelson, an author and researcher specializing in leadership and African diasporic politics, discussed her book "Visibly Invisible" which explores the contributions of Black women in the United States Congress. She shared her academic journey through HBCUs and her research on the Congressional Black Caucus, highlighting the historical and contemporary challenges faced by Black women in politics while noting their significant legislative impact and evolving representation while

en

00:34:57

Civic Engagement, Excellence, Public Education, and...

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/08/06

Dr. Randell Trammell of the Center for Civic Engagement talks about the Center's mission of educating young people about how important it is to learn how government works. We also discuss his bid to become Georgia State Superintendent of Schools, education funding, school/parent choice, state takeovers of local school systems, the Georgia Promise Scholarship, and the struggle to keep certified teachers in our classrooms. Learn more about him and his organizaton at georgiacivics.org/ and

en

00:34:52

Richmond County School System at a Crossroads with...

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/07/30

On August 12, the Richmond County Board of Education will decide who our next school superintendent is. Information about the two finalists, Dr. Malinda Cobb and Dr. Keith Simmons, is available on the school system's website. Host Janice Allen Jackson reviews the process, key data points illustrating the current status of the system, and her thoughts about what the school board should look for in a new leader. She also describes what a Strategic Waiver School System is, why Richmond County qualifies

en

00:44:33

What's Right with America with Hon. Paul Johnson

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/07/23

Paul Johnson, former Mayor of Phoenix, AZ, is also an author and host of The Optimistic American Podcast, discusses his background in politics and his experiences as a young elected official. He explores the political landscape of Arizona, and why he is optimistic about our country's future. Paul shared insights about the value of listening and avoiding labels in political discourse, the council-manager form of government, how the provision of services should come first, and the benefits of

en

00:48:01

Showing the Love of Christ with Reverend Dr. Robert...

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/07/16

In an era of megachurches, Miracle Making Ministries has focused on missions and meeting the needs of the people around them. Rev. Dr. Robert Williams describes his notion of what a pastor is, what it means to truly have an impact, and whether the seminary education prepares someone to lead a solid congregation. Learn more about his journey and his work: https://mirmakmin.com/.DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for herself. Her thoughts, views, and

en

00:33:25

The Life of a City Manager: Is Silence Praise? with...

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/07/09

Seth Winterhalter is a keynote speaker and podcaster who has made it his mission to share inspiring stories of local leaders and city turnarounds. We discuss the underappreciated work of local governments, how lonely it is to be a City Manager, and how little the average person knows about what it takes to make sure residents enjoy basic services. Seth also discussed how local officials build community in an increasingly isolated society. Learn more about Seth at

en

00:45:22

Trust, Accountability, and the Augusta Charter Review...

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/07/04

Sheffie Robinson, a software engineer, clinical sociologist, and college faculty member, is a recent appointee to Augusta's Charter Review Committee. She explains what led to Augusta-Richmond County consolidation in 1995, what a charter is, and how the committee will get public feedback. We also touch on transparency, accountability, and what it will take for our elected officials to build trust and grow Augusta. For more information, please visit www.augustaga.gov/3314/Charter-Review-Committee

en

00:28:28

Georgia Public Service Commission Runoff, and Stuff...

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/06/25

Why would only 2% of Georgia voters cast ballots in a statewide election? Do people care about the cost of utilities? If you do, you have the chance to the polls on July 15. Learn who can't vote in that election, the functions of the Georgia Public Service Commission, and who made the runoff. I also tackle one of my pet peeves in my local government days and now: Property owners who don't take care of their property!DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice Allen Jackson is speaking only for

en

00:33:07

Enhancing your Entrepreneurial Spirit with Rebecca...

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/06/18

Rebecca Callis Mixson of the Augusta Small Business Development Center provided an overview of the their services and history, explaining how it assists entrepreneurs across Georgia. Running a business is challenging, so they support business owners, and in so doing, help expand Georgia's economy. They offer business consulting and training programs. She shared her background and discussed the center's network of consultants, upcoming training initiatives, and recent events like the Women's Summit

en

00:33:39

Are you Worried about Utility bills? with Patrick...

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/06/11

Patrick King of the Natural Resources Defense Council explained his organization's advocacy for environmental policies and their involvement in Georgia Power's Integrated Resource Plan hearings. The discussion also covered the potential impact of data centers on energy infrastructure and the importance of informed voting in the upcoming Public Service Commission elections. This election is crucial because these Commissioners approve utility rates.DISCLAIMER: Local Matters Podcast Host Janice

en

00:44:46

The Problem of Empty Churches with Rick Reinhard

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/06/04

Rick Reinhard, a former local government official now with Niagra Consulting, shared his expertise in redeveloping and repurposing underutilized church buildings. During his tenure with the United Methodist Church, this became one of his specialties. Janice and Rick discussed their shared history in Richmond, Virginia, and explored the challenges and opportunities of reusing historic church buildings. Declining church attendance has created a signifcant problem for many communities. They examined

en

00:31:57

What is Preserved and What Isn't? with Erick Montgomery

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/05/28

Erick Montgomery, Executive Director of Historic Augusta, discussed the organization's mission to preserve historic sites and structures in Augusta, Georgia. He shared insights on various preservation projects, challenges faced in protecting historic buildings, and the importance of advocacy and resources . The conversation also touched on the appointment process for the Historic Preservation Commission's Board members and the need for comprehensive city plans to support preservation initiatives. We

en

00:29:37

Apply Before it is Too Late! with Timothy Watson

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/05/21

Tim Watson of the Small Business Administration discussed the current status of Hurricane Helene relief efforts in Georgia. He explained that the declaration for the hurricane began in September and has been extended multiple times. He also clarified that the SBA offers programs for business owners, non-profit organizations, and individuals who incurred damage from the hurricane. These programs include loans for physical damage and economic injury, covering up to $100,000 for renters and up to

en

00:29:41

Ready to Accelerate Your Business? with Julie Langham

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/05/14

Julie Langham, Vice President for Economic Development at Augusta Technical College, joins us to talk about the Accelerate Augusta program. A partnership with the downtown Development Authority, it is aimed at providing resources for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and startups. The program is set to open in June. Ms. Langham also discusses how the College ensures that area employers can find qualified workers.Learn more about their offerings at https://ce.augustatech.edu/.To contact Mrs

en

00:31:19

Networking. Tariffs. Air Traffic Safety. Economic...

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/05/07

Ronic West, CEO of the Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce, discussed the importance of creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and business owners to build connections. They also discussed the Chamber's role as a conduit between the business community and government, the current economic instability, and how we must prepare. Finally, they addressed Ronic's role with the Augusta Aviation Commission and the importance of utilizing our local airport to ensure its growth. To order her upcoming

en

00:29:28

Who Helps the Working Poor? with Brittany Burnett

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/04/30

Brittany Williams Burnett, CEO of the United Way of the Central Savannah River Area, discussed the role of nonprofits in improving quality of life, and how their focus has shifted as needs change. Brittany shared her personal journey from medical sales to nonprofit work. They also discussed the evolution of United Way's role in addressing community needs, the transportation challenges in Richmond and Columbia Counties, and the challenges faced by hardworking families. Lastly, Brittany highlighted

en

00:30:22

Celebrating 27 years of GAIC with Reverend...

Local Matters Podcast ·

2025/04/23

The Greater Augusta's Interfaith Coalition has been advocating for 100% voter participation since 1998. The organization was founded to look out for the needs of the people of the CSRA. We discuss their celebratory banquet, services they provide, and the upcoming Georgia Pubilic Services Commission race.To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page: www.Janiceallenjackson.weebly.com Follow us on Social Media: Facebook:

en

284 results

Similar Podcasts

Bilbo Hiria irratia

The Lawfare Podcast

The Lawfare Institute

The Young Turks

TYT Network

Show Archives – Armed American Radio |

Armed American Radio

The Chris Plante Show

WMAL | Cumulus Podcast Network |...