Best Assembling Inclusion Podcasts (2025)

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The EP 175: State of Hiring: Data trends, Automation, and Fraud risks with Steve Bartel, CEO of Gem 39:51

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19d ago39:51

39:51

Join host James Mackey and Steve Bartel, CEO of Gem, to explore what’s happening in today’s hiring market - inbound is up 3x, time to hire has grown by eight days, and recruiters are carrying 55% more reqs. They discuss where AI genuinely reduces workload and boosts efficiency, along with the rise in fraud and interview cheating. Thank you to our s…

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A New Look at Misbehavior: Creating Upstream Solutions for Dysregulated Students with Dr. Doug Bolton 31:02

21d ago31:02

31:02

This episode will be the final one of 2025, as we take a break from the podcast over the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Before we introduce today’s topic and guest, we want to address the “elephant in the room”: the shifts happening in the Department of Education under the Trump administration. Just a heads-up: following us on Instagram is th…

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The Current State of DEI in the US: What is Worth Fighting For? 26:03

1M ago26:03

26:03

With so many school holidays fast approaching, there are many kids who need interventions right now, and their parents are panicking. Furthermore, the effects of the government shutdown are being felt as Head Start programs are having to close their doors. Families are scrambling, and we are witnessing significant shifts that are having a profound …

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082 : Scotty's Little Soldiers Re-Release for Remembrance with founder Nikki Scott 36:14

1M ago36:14

36:14

Ahead of Remembrance Day, we are re-releasing one of the most poignant interviews ever recorded on The InDependent Spouse podcast. Host Jess Sands talks with the brilliant and inspirational founder, Nikki Scott, about the incredible journey that led her to create Scotty's Little Soldiers. Nikki shares the intensely personal and heartbreaking story …

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Inside the World Bank's vision to help create a billion new jobs 11:49

2M ago11:49

11:49

In an exclusive interview hosted by Landry Signé, Anna Bjerde, the World Bank's managing director of operations, discusses the Bank's top priorities and challenges in achieving its mandate in a changing world. This interview was recorded on-site on Day One of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund's 2025 Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C. …

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How to Raise a Citizen (And Why It’s Up to You to Do It) with Lindsey Cormack 21:47

2M ago21:47

21:47

Today’s topic is one that not many people are talking about, but it’s a big problem in our country. We are discussing the deficit in our children’s education about civics, government, and basic politics. As parents and educators, we have a huge responsibility to do better, and today’s guest is taking on the challenge. Join us to learn more! Lindsey…

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The United Nations' essential role in global peace and security 23:29

2M ago23:29

23:29

In the final episode of our three-part series covering the 80th U.N. General Assembly, host Landry Signé interviews members of the U.N. and its partners on how the organization upholds international peace and security, including through its developmental support to fragile states. Show notes and transcript Foresight Africa podcast is part of the Br…

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How the United Nations and the private sector partner for global prosperity 24:19

2M ago24:19

24:19

In this second episode of our special three-part series on the 2025 U.N. General Assembly, host Landry Signé brings together global leaders from government, business, and international institutions to explore how the United Nations is deepening its partnership with the private sector. As the U.N. marks 80 years, the conversation looks beyond diplom…

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A Look at CA Assembly Bill 461 and a New, Much-Needed Approach to Truancy 18:55

2M ago18:55

18:55

Typically, October is a busy month for us as we are already a couple of months into the new school year; reality has set in, and winter/holiday breaks are fast approaching. Today’s focus comes from a lively topic of discussion that was posted on our Instagram last week: an update on CA Assembly Bill 461, which repeals a 2011 Truancy Law. That law p…

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For the good of humanity: The United Nations as a global problem solver 27:47

2M ago27:47

27:47

Host Landry Signé sits down with some of the world's top global leaders and stakeholders as they reflect on the United Nations' work at the heart of global peace, sustainable development, multilateral cooperation and institutional reform during this historic 80th General Assembly. This is the first episode of a three-part series reporting from the …

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Critical minerals can be a win-win policy area for the US and Africa 36:54

3M ago36:54

36:54

Following the launch of a new report by Brookings' Africa Growth Initiative, host Landry Signé sits down with AGI scholars Ede Ijjasz-Vásquez and Vera Songwe to discuss how U.S. investments in mining can transform African economies while diversifying American access to much needed critical minerals. Show notes and transcript Foresight Africa podcas…

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What Do Our Kids Really Need? Moving Forward with the “Next Great Iteration” of our Educational System with Dr. Annalies Corbin 23:38

3M ago23:38

23:38

We’ve become accustomed to the normal back-to-school craziness this time of year, but this year seems more chaotic than usual! Numerous lawsuits are being filed to challenge the funding cuts, which are having a significant impact on programs, services, staffing, and students. There are numerous unknowns that contribute to the turmoil. We are doing …

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Why is democracy succeeding in Ghana? 31:39

3M ago31:39

31:39

Host Landry Signé and George Ofosu, assistant professor in comparative politics at the London School of Economics and Political Science, discuss Ghana's democratic trajectory, highlighting factors that have enabled it to become a regional bastion of democracy, while also exploring what more could be done to safeguard and deepen the quality of the c…

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Virginia District Funding Cuts Jeopardize Education For All 20:02

3M ago20:02

20:02

Here we are, on the front lines of the fight for inclusive education. Now, a month or so into the new school year, we are already in the thick of the fight, and we are seeing numerous lawsuits being filed as things are changing daily. Many of our listeners are already feeling the impact of funding cuts to education. Today’s episode focuses on the a…

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What the 80th UN General Assembly means for Africa 38:29

3M ago38:29

38:29

As the United Nations General Assembly begins its 80th session this month, host Landry Signé meets with Cristina Duarte, U.N. Undersecretary-General and Special Adviser on Africa, to discuss how her office is supporting African development and what the shifting international order means for Africa and global multilateralism. Show notes and transcri…

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Racial and Cultural Responsiveness and Accountability in Education with Jebeh Edmunds 26:50

4M ago26:50

26:50

Our goal is always to keep people informed about what’s going on in today’s world that directly affects the education of our students. It is essential to consider the communities that are forming within the broader context of the current political climate. How are conversations being navigated around important topics like race and culture? Today’s …

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Advancing digital inclusion in Africa 27:18

4M ago27:18

27:18

Host Landry Signé speaks with Ibrahima Guimba-Saidou, CEO of the Partnership for Digital Access in Africa, and former minister special advisor to the president of Niger, on the importance of expanding internet access in Africa and the potential of public-private partnerships to provide needed investments. Show notes and transcript Foresight Africa …

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The Ripple Effect of Losing $65 Million in Federal Education Support with Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez 29:40

4M ago29:40

29:40

We are in the middle of the start of another school year across the country, whether your students have already returned or have a later start date. One of the most important events from last school year was the Supreme Court decision to withhold $65M in federal funding for education, and we are seeing those impacts across the board. Dr. Jacqueline…

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Predicting a brighter future for Africa 20:50

4M ago20:50

20:50

Host Landry Signé and fellow futurist Jakkie Cilliers, founder of the Institute for Security Studies and head of its African Futures Innovation Programme, discuss the importance of evidence-based forecasting for preparing for shaping a brighter future in and for Africa and how youth are key to achieving the best-case scenarios for African economies…

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Finding Balance in the “Least Restrictive Environments” for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students with Jennifer Catalano 21:51

4M ago21:51

21:51

Welcome back to the podcast as we kick off a new school year! We are excited, as always, to jump into some very important topics in the coming weeks. First up is our amazing guest, Jennifer Catalano, to discuss her work in deaf education and share her perspective on the least restrictive environments for these students. Is it better to have 100% in…

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081 : Sewing a New Path: How a Business Course Changed Everything with Bekky from The Crafty Starfish 40:29

4M ago40:29

40:29

Welcome to the final episode of Series 7! This week, I'm joined by Bekky, a Navy wife, mum of three, and a graduate from the Milspo Business Start-Up course. Bekky shares her incredible journey from feeling lost and lonely as a new military partner to building her own thriving business, The Crafty Starfish. We discuss the unique challenges military…

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080 : Juggling it All with Major Jo Vann 38:17

5M ago38:17

38:17

Welcome back to The InDependent Spouse Podcast! In this episode, your host Jess Sands dives into the inspirational world of Major Jo Vann – a true multi-hyphenate who redefines what it means to juggle military life, motherhood, and a thriving business. Jo is not only working full-time in the British Army with a serving husband and two children, but…

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Namibia's foreign minister on the transformative impact of trade and foreign policy for Africa's development 22:56

5M ago22:56

22:56

Host Landry Signé speaks with Hon. Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, Namibia's minister for international relations and trade, and seasoned career diplomat, on the need for African countries to think locally while acting continentally, and how agreements like the AfCFTA and a spirit of solidarity among African countries create opportunities for Africans and …

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079 : Felicity Mercer – From Political Life to Award-Winning Business Owner 54:08

5M ago54:08

54:08

Welcome back to The InDependent Spouse podcast! In this particularly exciting episode, Jess Sands sits down with the brilliant Felicity Mercer, wife to Johnny Mercer, who has navigated the unique challenges of armed forces life, the intense world of politics, and is now an award-winning business owner. We cover it all, from meeting Johnny Mercer (M…

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078 : Uniting the Military Community and Shattering Stereotypes with PadWives Assemble 58:41

5M ago58:41

58:41

Join Jess Sands in this inspiring episode of The InDependent Spouse as she welcomes the incredible duo behind the award-winning podcast, Pad Wives Assemble – Sophs and Kirsha! Tune in as they dive into the realities of modern military life, discussing everything from building a supportive tri-service community to challenging outdated stereotypes ab…

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Population dividend, technological leapfrogging, and high growth rates signal opportunities for African economies 28:22

5M ago28:22

28:22

Host Landry Signé speaks with Acha Leke, chairman of McKinsey & Company's Africa Region and senior partner in their Johannesburg office, about Africa's many advantages in human and natural resources. Leke explains how different actors, from family-owned businesses to national governments and international investors, can align themselves to benefit …

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077 : From RAF Veteran to Neuro-Inclusion Advocate with Ria Jackson 55:06

5M ago55:06

55:06

Welcome to another inspiring episode of The InDependent Spouse Podcast! In this episode, your host Jess Sands sits down with the phenomenal Ria Jackson, an RAF veteran, founder of "The V Word," and CEO of Inclusive Minds UK. Join us as Ria shares her extraordinary journey of self-discovery and resilience, and learn about her mission to champion neu…

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076 : Building Community & Navigating Military Life with the Marama Alliance 55:11

6M ago55:11

55:11

In this inspiring episode, host Jess Sands welcomes Lulu from the Marama Alliance, a vibrant community dedicated to supporting Fijian women and their families in the UK armed forces. Lulu shares her personal journey of moving from Fiji to the UK as a military spouse, facing challenges like adapting to a new climate and navigating unfamiliar systems…

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Democratic resilience in Africa (and Kenya) takes many forms 28:19

6M ago28:19

28:19

Foresight Africa host Landry Signé and Drs. Oscar Otele and Danielle Resnick examine the nuances of the state of democracy across Africa, providing insights into strategies for democratic resiliency moving forward. Show notes and transcript Foresight Africa podcast is part of the Brookings Podcast Network. Subscribe and listen on Apple, Spotify, Af…

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350: The Current State of Affairs in US Education: Our Appearance on Dr. Karen Wilson’s Podcast 41:33

6M ago41:33

41:33

This is our last episode before our much-needed summer break. Taking this break helps us to refocus and prepare for a new school year. We recently made another appearance on the Diverse Thinking Different Learning: A ChildNEXUS podcast with Dr. Karen Wilson, who has also joined us on our podcast before. Today, we are featuring that episode as an ov…

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EP 174: How to streamline operations and drive sustainable growth with Rachael Becker, Founder & CEO of RB Builds 45:18

6M ago45:18

45:18

Rachael Becker, Founder & CEO of RB Builds, joins host James Mackey to discuss business efficiency, tech transformation, and creating standout user experiences. With a unique blend of expertise across operations and technology, Rachael shares actionable insights on how organizations can streamline processes, improve internal alignment, and scale su…

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075 : Advocating for Military Spouses with Camilla Howard 40:22

6M ago40:22

40:22

Welcome to The InDependent Spouse podcast, your go-to place for inspiration and support in navigating modern military life. In this episode, host Jess Sands sits down with the incredible Camilla Howard: an RAF veteran, an Army spouse, a forces child, and a dedicated advocate for the military spouse community. After 12 years in the RAF, Camilla tran…

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074 : Navigating Life's Roller Coaster with Alex Rickerby 38:56

6M ago38:56

38:56

Join Jess Sands in this inspiring episode of The InDependent Spouse Podcast as she chats with the incredible Alex Rickerby. Alex, a career coach for the Forces Employment Charity and a private coach in the tech sector, shares her remarkable story of balancing a high-powered career with the unique demands of military life, motherhood, and unexpected…

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Partnerships elevate Africa's development successes 30:41

6M ago30:41

30:41

On this episode of Foresight Africa, hosted by Landry Signé, Gargee Ghosh, president of Global Policy and Advocacy at the Gates Foundation, explains why collaborative, context-specific, and innovative solutions elevate development success across Africa. Show notes and transcript Foresight Africa podcast is part of the Brookings Podcast Network. Sub…

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Clearing Up Confusion About 504 Plans with April Rehrig 23:33

6M ago23:33

23:33

The landscape of American education has undergone significant changes over the past few months, particularly in the realm of special education. Our diligence in staying informed about developments in our field is more important than ever as we approach the start of a new school year in just a few weeks. Our focus today centers on understanding 504s…

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073 : Military Spouse Success: Finding "Enough" & Thriving in Chaos with Dr. Kathrine McAleese 46:19

6M ago46:19

46:19

This week on The InDependent Spouse, host Jess Sands welcomes the inspiring Dr. Kathrine McAleese for a deeply insightful conversation about navigating the demands of modern military life while striving for personal and professional fulfillment. This episode is a must-listen for any military spouse seeking to find success on their own terms and rec…

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EP 173: Unlocking Value: Latin American engineering teams for US companies with Gino Ferrand, CEO of Tecla 36:05

6M ago36:05

36:05

The landscape of global talent acquisition is evolving rapidly, and nearshore engineering teams in Latin America have emerged as a strategic solution for US-based tech companies. In this insightful conversation, host James Mackey and Gino Ferrand, Founder and CEO of Tecla, explore why Latin American engineering teams are becoming increasingly attra…

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072 : Muddling Through Military Life with Lady Caitlin Knighton 44:38

7M ago44:38

44:38

Welcome back to The InDependent Spouse, and get ready for authentic stories and amazing inspiration from the military family! In this candid chat, Jess sits down with the incredible Lady Caitlin Knighton, wife of the Chief of the Air Staff and a brilliant family lawyer. If you've ever felt the squeeze of balancing military life with family and work…

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EP 172: AI, hiring, and the new talent equation with Steve Bartel, CEO of Gem 42:26

7M ago42:26

42:26

With markets reacting to global uncertainty and AI transforming the hiring landscape, both job seekers and recruiters are recalibrating their strategies. Join host James Mackey and Steve Bartel, CEO of Gem, as they discuss how automation is changing resume screening, interview prep, and rediscovery of existing talent. As companies look to cut costs…

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Meet African girls' educational needs by listening to their experiences 36:15

7M ago36:15

36:15

Adefunke Ekine and Mary Otieno, university educators from Nigeria and Kenya respectively, and alumnae of the Echidna Scholars Program at Brookings, talk with Foresight Africa host Landry Signé on why innovation and listening to girls' stories are crucial to advancing girls' education across Africa. Show notes and transcript Foresight Africa podcast…

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Digging into DEI Success for Students with Tracy Baynes, Part 2 29:44

7M ago29:44

29:44

Today’s episode brings back Tracy Baynes to share her best tips and advice for getting your student involved in their education earlier rather than later. She gives practical steps middle school students can take to prepare for college success, even if they are low-income students. Join us to learn more! Tracy Baynes is the founder, president, and …

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How the World Bank is advancing shared prosperity and jobs in Africa amid global economic uncertainty 27:02

7M ago27:02

27:02

During the World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C., Foresight Africa host Landry Signé caught up with Axel van Trotsenburg, senior managing director of the World Bank, who spoke about how to mobilize the private sector to help create more jobs for African youth in the coming years, while also addressing the debt distress crisis many Afri…

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EP 171: AI talent pipelines: Strategies for sustainable hiring in an era of rapid change with Lupe Colangelo, Director of Alumni Engagement & Employer Partnerships at General Assembly. 34:00

7M ago34:00

34:00

In this episode host James Mackey sits down with Lupe Colangelo, Director of Alumni Engagement & Employer Partnerships at General Assembly. They provide insights into the evolving tech talent landscape with a special focus on AI hiring trends and challenges faced by employers and job seekers alike. Lupe shares key findings from GA's State of Tech T…

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Digging into DEI Success for Students with Tracy Baynes 23:50

7M ago23:50

23:50

We continue our journey to view the education of our children holistically as we strive to develop them into productive and inclusive members of society. Tracy Baynes joins us to share her interesting work in helping students achieve unimaginable success. Tracy Baynes is the founder, president, and CEO of STEP, the Student Expedition Program. As an…

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On site with leaders at the World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings 2025 34:57

7M ago34:57

34:57

During the World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings in April 2025, Foresight Africa podcast host Landry Signé interviewed leaders in the global finance and development space to glean their key takeaways from the meetings and how they might shape policy decisions and deliver tangible results across Africa. In this special episode, you will hear highlights fro…

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To reduce inequality in Nigeria, focus on jobs, laws, and cash 28:57

8M ago28:57

28:57

Host Landry Signé and Belinda Archibong, a fellow with the Africa Growth Initiative at Brookings, discuss inequalities that hinder development across Africa and policy choices that can overcome them. These include increasing job opportunities for women and youth, passing laws against gender and youth discrimination, and providing access to financia…

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A One-Size-Fits-All Approach Does Not Work with Dr. OiYan Poon 21:09

8M ago21:09

21:09

Today’s conversation covers the impact of recent executive orders on DEI, the historical context of the civil rights movements, and the importance of local community efforts. Our guest is Dr. OiYan Poon, a community-engaged research scholar, educator, storyteller, and leader for intersectional racial equity. Her research is focused on the racial po…

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EP 170: Georgetown's entrepreneurial ecosystem with Benjamin Zimmerman 37:23

8M ago37:23

37:23

Georgetown University is redefining entrepreneurial education by building a mission-driven ecosystem where innovation thrives. In this episode, our host, James Mackey, and Ben Zimmerman, Managing Director of Georgetown Entrepreneurship, share Georgetown’s unique approach to fostering an environment that helps startups succeed. From student programs…

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EP 169: What’s Next for AI and Automation in Recruiting: Insights from Jason Heilman, Sr VP of Product, Automation, and AI at Bullhorn 37:40

8M ago37:40

37:40

Jason Heilman, Senior Vice President of Product, Automation, and AI at Bullhorn, and our host James Mackey, offer a masterclass in AI and Automation for recruiting organizations. Drawing from Jason’s experience as co-founder of Herefish (acquired by Bullhorn in 2019), Jason reveals how automation serves as the essential foundation for effective AI …

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Rethinking South-North cooperation across the Atlantic in a shifting global economy 31:12

8M ago31:12

31:12

Host Landry Signé and Dr. Karim El Aynaoui, executive president of the Policy Center for the New South, discuss the rapid shift toward transactional relationships between countries in the South and North that may prove difficult for less stable countries in the New South to navigate. Macroeconomic stability and independent monetary policy are funda…