No Jargon, the Scholars Strategy Network’s monthly podcast, presents interviews with top university scholars on the politics, policy problems, and social issues...
Episode 269: Tariffs, Trade Wars, and American Jobs
Tariffs are often promoted as a way to protect American workers—but do they actually work? Dr. Erica Owen takes us through the fast-moving shifts in U.S. trade policy under President Trump and the ripple effects they’re having on businesses, workers, and consumers. Who benefits, who pays the price, and what happens next? From the backlash against globalization to the forces reshaping American jobs, Dr. Owen explains what’s at stake—and how policymakers can better support workers caught in the crossfire. For more on this topic: Read Owen’s SSN key findings brief, Why Protectionist Trade Policies Still Won’t Deliver for U.S. Workers.
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Episode 268: Does AI Have a Role in Education?
Generative AI has sparked excitement, curiosity, and a lot of unease. For schools, is it a groundbreaking tool for education, or a high-tech shortcut some might call cheating? In this episode, Professor Justin Ballenger takes us on his journey from middle school science teacher to trailblazer in STEM teacher preparation. Along the way, he breaks down what generative AI is, how schools are using it today, and the game-changing ways it could transform learning in the future. For more on this topic: Check out Ballenger’s opinion piece about AI in the classroom in Higher Education Digest. Read SSN’s member spotlight about how his work is shaping the future of education.
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Episode 267: Risks of Trump’s Plans to Overhaul the Government
President Donald Trump has big plans for a second term in office. Among his proposals are sweeping cuts to the federal workforce, reducing federal spending on key programs, and potentially firing tens of thousands of federal workers and replacing them with political appointees. It’s a vision that promises to “drain the swamp,” but it could also drain the essential services that millions of Americans rely on. From trimming federal programs to overhauling bureaucracy, these ideas sound bold on paper, but how feasible—or even practical—are they? And what might the real consequences be if such changes take shape? Professor Donald Moynihan shares his deep knowledge of how bureaucracies operate and separates fact from fiction to explore what Trump’s plans could mean for the future of the country.
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Episode 266: The Evolving Role of Fatherhood
With the holiday season upon us, many are looking forward to spending time with family—reconnecting, sharing traditions, and reflecting on what really matters. Dr. Alvin Thomas shares insights into what it means to be a dad today—especially for Black fathers who are navigating cultural, economic, and social challenges. He explains why involved fathers are so vital for children, how traditional views of masculinity are being redefined, and what cultural and policy changes are needed to better support fathers in showing up for their families. For more on this topic: Listen to Thomas’s award-winning podcast at The Black Fathers' Pulse. Read his SSN key findings brief: Fatherhood: Supporting Healthy, Resilient, and Thriving Family Ecosystems Read his op-ed co-written with Tova Walsh about fathers and their needs in The Hill.
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Episode 265: Dissecting the 2024 Presidential Election
The re-election of President Donald J. Trump is certain to be scrutinized for years to come, but for many voters, the immediate aftermath brings emotions that are complex and deeply felt. In a candid conversation, Dr. Christina Greer, a political science professor at Fordham University, shares her reflections on the 2024 presidential election as an expert on American politics, Black ethnic politics, and campaigns and elections. Dr. Greer discusses the deep-seated forces—such as white supremacy and patriarchy—that cut across racial and gender lines to shape how people vote, and dives into what the next four years might hold for the U.S. For more on this topic: Listen to Greer speak about political matters on the In The Thick podcast. Read her new book, How to Build a Democracy: From Fannie Lou Hamer and Barbara Jordan to Stacey Abrams.
No Jargon, the Scholars Strategy Network’s monthly podcast, presents interviews with top university scholars on the politics, policy problems, and social issues facing the nation. Powerful research, intriguing perspectives -- and no jargon. Find show notes and plain-language research briefs on hundreds of topics at www.scholarsstrategynetwork.org/nojargon. New episodes released once a month.
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