Main Street Matters

Rich States, Poor States with Jonathan Williams

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and Jonathan Williams discuss the latest Rich States, Poor States report, highlighting the economic successes of states like Utah and the challenges faced by states at the bottom of the rankings. They delve into the importance of fiscal responsibility, the need for pension reform, and the impact of government spending on state economies. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for states to compete for businesses and jobs while addressing the criticisms of their rankings and the broader implications of federal spending policies. Check and see how your state performed HERE: https://www.richstatespoorstates.org/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Impact of Tax Cuts on Small Business Growth with Guy Berkebile

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker speaks with Guy Berkebile, founder of Guy Chemical Company, about the significant impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on small businesses. They discuss Berkebile's entrepreneurial journey, the challenges he faced, and how tax policies have enabled him to invest in his company and community. The conversation also touches on the importance of retaining youth in small towns, the implications of tariffs and trade policies, and the future of American manufacturing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why Millennials and Gen Z Struggle to Build Wealth and Own Homes

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and Jeremiah Poff of the Washington Examiner discuss the challenges faced by millennials and Gen Z in achieving home ownership and building wealth. They explore the economic shifts from a production-driven economy to a consumption-driven one, the impact of inflation on housing prices, and the role of student debt in economic mobility. The conversation highlights the importance of local economic drivers and corporate responsibility in creating sustainable communities. They also address the need for effective messaging of economic policies to connect with everyday Americans. Read Jeremiah's work at the Washington ExaminerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Solving America’s Homelessness Crisis: Policy Failures, Mental Health, and Community Solutions

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker speaks with Michele Steeb, founder of the Free Up Foundation, about the ongoing homeless crisis in America. They discuss the impact of homelessness on communities, the failures of past policies, and the importance of a human-first approach to addressing the issue. Michele shares insights from her experience running a shelter for homeless women and children and emphasizes the need for mental health and addiction treatment as part of a comprehensive solution. The conversation also touches on the economic implications of homelessness and the role of community involvement in creating effective solutions. Learn more about Michele & Purchase her book HERE | https://www.michelesteeb.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How AI Is Transforming Education and Closing Learning Gaps

In this episode of Main Street Matters, host Elaine Parker sits down with Erika Donalds of the America First Policy Institute to examine the future of education in America. The conversation explores how artificial intelligence in education can personalize learning, support teachers, and help students recover from COVID-era learning loss. They discuss innovative teaching methods, the role of educators in an AI-driven classroom, and practical solutions to close learning gaps. Learn more about AFPI | https://www.americafirstpolicy.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.