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.

In this introspective and emotionally charged episode of People, Politics and Pork, hosts Newell Clark and Greg Webb invite listeners into a raw, real-time conversation about mental health, loss, and the powerful role music plays in helping us navigate life’s hardest moments. What starts as a casual check-in between friends quickly evolves into something deeper, as Newell shares his personal experience grieving the recent loss of a dear friend.

With honesty and vulnerability, the duo discusses the weight of trying to stay strong for others, the loneliness that can follow trauma, and the often-unseen burdens leaders carry. Greg and Newell reflect on the healing power of music—from gospel to power ballads—and how the right song at the right moment can unlock memories, offer clarity, or just make things a little more bearable.

Though there’s no guest this week, this episode might be one of the most personal yet. It’s a powerful reminder that it’s okay to talk about the hard stuff—and that sometimes the most meaningful conversations happen when we least expect them.

If you’ve ever found comfort in a song, or just needed to hear someone say, “You’re not alone,” this episode is for you.

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In this reflective and spirited episode of People, Politics and Pork, hosts Greg Webb and Newell Clark dive deep into a timely conversation about the role of government in providing safety nets versus offering a fair and equitable starting line for all Americans.

Using personal stories, historical anecdotes, and a few slices of good Southern humor, the duo explores the question: Should government be in the business of catching us when we fall—or should it ensure everyone starts on solid ground to begin with?

Greg and Newell tackle tough issues with thoughtfulness and wit, from school funding disparities to healthcare access and rural poverty. They question whether current systems unintentionally encourage dependency or if they simply reflect the reality that many communities never got a fair shake in the first place.

This episode isn’t about taking sides—it’s about starting a conversation. The hosts challenge listeners to think beyond political slogans and examine the real-world impact of policy decisions. Their down-to-earth storytelling and front porch philosophy make big ideas feel personal—and possible.

Whether you're left, right, or somewhere in between, this episode is an invitation to lean in, listen closely, and consider how we build a stronger, more compassionate America—starting at the starting line.

🎧 Now streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartMedia, and all major platforms.

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When we think politics, most of us picture Washington or the statehouse. But some of the most important decisions impacting our daily lives are made much closer to home — inside our local school districts.

In this episode of People, Politics and Pork, Newell and Greg dive into how school boards act like “micro-governments,” managing huge budgets, shaping property values, and influencing economic growth.

They explore why local education decisions affect everyone — from parents and students to business owners and homeowners — and make the case that your vote in a school board election may matter more than any national ballot.

👉 Tune in to learn how strong schools can fuel thriving communities, why weak ones drag them down, and what you can do to get involved.

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Greg Webb and Newell Clark are back with another lively conversation — and this time, Greg’s fresh off a trip to Canada! From quirky travel moments to thoughtful reflections on cultural differences, the hosts serve up their trademark mix of humor, curiosity, and civic-mindedness.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Greg’s Canadian adventures — from airports to unexpected encounters

• Observations on how Canadian communities operate and engage with each other

• The contrast between U.S. and Canadian political and social landscapes

• A few lighthearted food and beverage tales from the trip

• How travel can change your perspective on home

As always, Greg and Newell weave in a mix of personal anecdotes and bigger-picture insights — reminding us that travel isn’t just about where you go, but what you take away from the experience.

People, Politics and Pork is available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartMedia, and most major podcast platforms.

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🎧 Listen now — and maybe start planning your own trip across the border.

In this episode of People, Politics and Pork, hosts Greg Webb and Newell Clark welcome Maryam Abolfazli—attorney, writer, and former congressional candidate—to the table for an eye-opening and heartfelt conversation about what it means to serve, to belong, and to run for something bigger than yourself.

Maryam shares her deeply personal journey from law and advocacy work to running for Congress in Nashville, Tennessee, as a first-generation Iranian-American woman. With honesty and humor, she opens up about navigating identity, faith, and politics—all while trying to connect with the people she aimed to represent.

Some highlights from this episode:

• Maryam’s motivations for stepping into the political arena

• What it’s like to run as a progressive in a politically complex district

• The challenges of campaigning as a Muslim American woman

• Her insights on civic engagement, public service, and building community beyond party lines

• How personal experiences—from her father’s death to policy frustrations—influenced her platform and voice

It’s a conversation that’s raw, reflective, and deeply relevant to the times we live in.

🎧 Now streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Media, or wherever you listen.
📬 Questions or feedback? Email the show at: peoplepoliticsandpork@gmail.com
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