This week on People, Politics and Pork, Newell Clark and Greg Webb welcome Shaka Mitchell, a respected advocate for school choice and Senior Fellow at the American Federation for Children. With a background in education policy, law, and leadership, Shaka brings a thoughtful, principled voice to the conversation around education reform and equity.

The discussion dives deep into the challenges and opportunities in public education—from funding disparities and parent empowerment to the philosophical roots of school choice. Shaka shares personal insights from his own upbringing, his transition from law to education, and why he believes access to quality education shouldn't be determined by ZIP code. He also discusses the politics of education policy at the state and federal levels, highlighting moments of bipartisanship and unexpected resistance.

The episode blends lively banter with meaningful dialogue, reflecting on the broader cultural and political implications of how we educate the next generation. Whether you're a parent, educator, policymaker, or just passionate about improving our communities, this episode offers thought-provoking ideas and practical takeaways.

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In this heartfelt and entertaining episode, Newell and Greg take a nostalgic stroll down memory lane as they pay tribute to the iconic actor, director, and environmental advocate, Robert Redford. The duo shares their personal admiration for Redford’s storied career, from his breakout roles in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Sting, to his more profound impact behind the camera with Ordinary People and the creation of the Sundance Film Festival.

But this episode goes beyond the Hollywood highlights. Newell and Greg explore Redford’s dedication to political and environmental causes, his status as a reluctant celebrity, and his ability to maintain artistic integrity in a changing industry. Along the way, they mix in plenty of laughter, trivia, and classic “People, Politics and Pork” charm, complete with Greg’s surprise quiz and a spirited discussion on how Redford might’ve handled social media today.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Redford or just curious about why he mattered so much to American culture, this episode is a touching reminder of how film, friendship, and values intersect.

In this timely episode of People, Politics and Pork, Newell Clark and Greg Webb dive headfirst into a spirited conversation about politics, polarization, and the shifting landscape of civic engagement. With no guest this week, the longtime friends bring their trademark mix of candor, humor, and Southern insight to a discussion that’s both serious and surprisingly hopeful.

Kicking things off with reflections on the “vibe” of American politics today, they unpack how many citizens feel disengaged, or downright exhausted, by political theater. But don’t mistake this for a doom-and-gloom episode. Newell and Greg challenge listeners to lean into discomfort, ask better questions, and reengage with local and national issues in a way that promotes understanding, not division.

Whether you lean left, right, or somewhere in between, this conversation is an invitation to rise above the noise and return to the basics of democratic responsibility. Along the way, they reflect on their own political awakenings, share observations from recent travels and personal interactions, and unpack why building relationships across the aisle still matters.

This episode is a call to action, not just to vote, but to listen more deeply, speak more kindly, and show up for your community. It’s about finding common ground in uncommon times.

🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and wherever you get your podcasts.