Episodes

  • Rotating Doors & Broken Pathways: Unpacking America’s Health Crisis

    Rotating Doors & Broken Pathways: Unpacking America’s Health Crisis
    Jun 1 2025

    In this episode of Almost Above Average, host Chris McIntyre sits down with Jonathan Travis to dissect the tangled web of America’s healthcare and food industries. With unfiltered sound bites like “The whole system is a rotating door of death” and “The dopamine pathway is trashed,” the conversation dives deep into why profit often trumps public health, how the food industry shapes our well-being, and whether lab-grown meat really matters. The duo explores generational shifts in work, parenting, and nutrition, debates the impact of Big Pharma and marijuana legalization, and reflects on the evolving landscape of alcohol consumption. From conspiracy theories to the future of food production, this episode pulls no punches in examining what’s broken—and what might come next—in the quest for healthier lives.

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Unlocking Success: The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything

    Unlocking Success: The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything
    Jun 1 2025

    In this powerful episode of Almost Above Average, Christopher McIntyre and Jonathan Travis dive deep into the secrets of personal growth and the transformative power of perspective. Discover how asking the right questions, setting clear goals, and embracing manifestation can reshape your path to success. Through candid personal stories and insights from self-help literature, they reveal how mindset fuels continuous learning and self-discovery. The conversation also explores the future of technology, pressing health and societal challenges, and the dangers of misinformation and conspiracy theories. Ready to elevate your thinking? Listen now—and don’t forget to share your thoughts and feedback with us at mcmedia.network.llc@gmail.com. Your insights could shape our next episode!
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    48 mins
  • The Shocking Truth About America’s Brain Drain and What It Means for Our Future

    The Shocking Truth About America’s Brain Drain and What It Means for Our Future
    May 26 2025

    In this eye-opening episode of Almost Above Average, Christopher McIntyre and Jonathan Travis expose the hidden crisis of brain scarcity gripping the U.S. From the alarming erosion of knowledge and the fallout of tariffs on manufacturing, to the dangerous rise of authoritarianism and the escalating brain drain—this conversation reveals the forces reshaping America’s future. Don’t miss this urgent discussion on what’s really at stake for technology, education, and our political landscape. Tune in now and discover why the American dream might be on the line
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    29 mins
  • Lines in the Sand: Navigating Today’s Social and Political Divides

    Lines in the Sand: Navigating Today’s Social and Political Divides
    May 18 2025

    In this episode of Almost Above Average, Chris McIntyre and Jonathan Travis take a deep dive into the urgent issues shaping our society. From profiling and human trafficking to government overreach and the actions of ICE agents, they break down the real-world impact of Supreme Court decisions and shifting immigration policies. Chris and Jonathan also discuss the economic pressures facing everyday Americans, the complexities of our healthcare and insurance systems, and the public’s understanding of vaccines. Environmental concerns, including threats to national parks and the ripple effects of tariffs, round out a wide-ranging conversation. Above all, this episode explores why critical thinking and genuine human connection are more important than ever in a divided world. Tune in for honest dialogue and fresh perspectives on the issues that matter most.
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    49 mins
  • Navigating AI, Automation, and America’s Future with Jonathan Travis

    Navigating AI, Automation, and America’s Future with Jonathan Travis
    May 11 2025

    Join me on Almost Above Average as I sit down with Jonathan Travis, a software developer from Fayetteville, North Carolina, for a wide-ranging conversation that goes beyond tech. We explore Jonathan’s personal journey, the challenges of growing up, and dive into pressing topics like AI’s impact on jobs and creativity, the future of manufacturing, and the ripple effects of federal budget cuts. We also unpack the influence of Elon Musk, political trade strategies, and why education reform is more critical than ever. If you’re curious about where America is headed and how technology and policy shape our lives, this episode is packed with insights and stories you won’t want to miss. Subscribe, listen, and join the conversation!
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    53 mins
  • Unforeseen Consequences

    Unforeseen Consequences
    May 4 2025

    In this conversation, Felicia Covington shares her inspiring journey from a challenging childhood in Durham, North Carolina, through struggles with addiction and domestic violence, to her eventual recovery and resilience. She discusses her community initiatives, her experiences with addiction, and the traumatic events that shaped her life, ultimately leading to her role as an author and advocate for others facing similar challenges. In this conversation, Felicia Covington shares her journey of healing and resilience through therapy and writing. She discusses the impact of her past experiences on her writing, particularly her latest book, 'Unforeseen Consequences,' which explores themes of addiction, recovery, and the unforeseen consequences of one's actions. Felicia emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in connecting with others and her desire to help those struggling with similar issues. She also shares her aspirations to further her education in counseling to make a difference in people's lives
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    38 mins
  • CAUSE Carolina Amazonians United for Solidarity and Empowerment

    CAUSE Carolina Amazonians United for Solidarity and Empowerment
    Apr 26 2025
    C.A.U.S.E.: A Movement for Justice in the Heart of North CarolinaIn January 2022, a bold worker-led movement emerged from the grueling conditions of Amazon’s RDU1 warehouse in Garner, North Carolina. Carolina Amazonians United for Solidarity and Empowerment (C.A.U.S.E.) was born out of frustration, solidarity, and a collective desire for change. This coalition of current and former Amazon employees set out to challenge one of the world’s wealthiest corporations, demanding fair wages, humane working conditions, and dignity for its workforce.Amazon’s meteoric rise has been fueled by the tireless efforts of its associates—workers who endure long hours at hazardous speeds with minimal breaks and inadequate resources to address their physical and mental health needs. At RDU1, stories of fainting on the job, injuries caused by relentless work paces, and even miscarriages due to extreme exertion paint a dire picture of life inside the warehouse walls6. Despite these challenges, Amazon associates are paid between $18 and $24 per hour—wages that often fall short of covering basic living expenses in today’s economy13.C.A.U.S.E. has demanded starting wages of $30 per hour, extended breaks, and better vacation policies1. Their vision extends beyond individual paychecks; they seek to empower workers through engagement, education, and collective action. The movement represents hope for a fairer future—not just for Amazon workers but for entire communities that rely on their labor.In February 2025, C.A.U.S.E.’s efforts faced a significant hurdle when workers at RDU1 voted overwhelmingly against unionization. Out of 4,300 eligible voters, only 829 supported joining the union while 2,447 opposed it13. This result marked a setback for labor advocates striving to organize Amazon facilities in the South—a region historically hostile to unionization25.CAUSE leaders attributed the loss to Amazon’s alleged interference in the election process. They accused the company of intimidating workers, favoring anti-union employees, and even firing the union’s co-founder shortly before voting began15. Despite these challenges, C.A.U.S.E. remains resolute. “This is only the beginning,” they declared in a statement following the vote. “We are building momentum in this struggle against exploitation”2.The defeat at RDU1 underscores the immense power imbalance between Amazon and its workforce. As one of the largest logistics companies in North America, Amazon has vast resources to resist unionization efforts4. Yet C.A.U.S.E.’s organizing campaign has illuminated critical issues within warehouse labor practices—issues that resonate far beyond Garner.The movement has exposed how racial, sexual, and gender hierarchies are used as tools to discipline and divide workers6. It has highlighted the urgent need for livable wages and safer working conditions across Amazon’s facilities. Above all, it has demonstrated the courage of workers who dare to challenge corporate giants despite overwhelming odds.C.A.U.S.E.’s journey is far from over. While their first unionization attempt fell short, their fight continues with renewed determination. They aim to build solidarity among workers, educate communities about labor rights, and hold Amazon accountable for its treatment of employees7.The road ahead will be difficult—but movements like C.A.U.S.E. remind us that progress often begins with resistance. As they push forward against exploitation and injustice, they offer a blueprint for worker-led organizing in an era dominated by corporate power.Now is the time to stand with C.A.U.S.E. Share their story widely. Support their efforts to create a fairer workplace for thousands of Amazon associates. Together, we can amplify their voices and ensure that justice prevails—not just in Garner but across all workplaces where exploitation persists.amazoncause.com Home - Carolina Amazonians United for Solidarity & Empowerment
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    30 mins
  • C.A.U.S.E and Black Workers for Justice 40th annual Banquet

    C.A.U.S.E and Black Workers for Justice 40th annual Banquet
    Apr 20 2025

    Join us on "Almost Above Average" as we document the 40th Annual Martin Luther King Support for Labor Banquet, themed 'Hold the Line: Protecting What’s Ours and Fighting for the Futures We Deserve.' This powerful event, hosted by Black Workers for Justice, highlights the ongoing struggle for workers' rights and racial justice. We explore the history of BWFJ and the efforts of CAUSE (Carolina Amazonians United for Solidarity and Empowerment) to challenge corporate exploitation. Listen in for inspiring stories of resilience and solidarity.

    C.A.U.S.E

    https://amazoncause.com/

    Black Workers for Justice

    https://bwfj.org/
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    42 mins