Explore every episode of the podcast Management Matters with James-Christian Blockwood
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| It's More than Just Buying: The Hidden World of Procurement with Angela Shell and David Gragan | 18 Aug 2025 | 00:22:40 | |
What do procurement specialists really do? How does the practice fit into the function of modern government operations? Academy Fellow David Gragan, former Chief Strategic Operations Officer at the National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO), and Angela Shell, Chief Procurement Officer of the California Department of General Services, help us demystify the world of procurement. With everything from emergency management to the construction of roads, schools, and hospitals, you'd be surprised how much requires a procurement specialist, and these experts are here to tell us why. Management Matters is a presentation of the National Academy of Public Administration produced by Lizzie Alwan and Matt Hampton and edited by Matt Hampton. Support the Podcast Today at: donate@napawash.org or 202-347-3190 | |||
| Modernizing The Public Service Education with Michael Crow and Martha Bohrt | 11 Aug 2025 | 00:26:34 | |
Education is a system, and today, all systems are subject to reform efforts. Academy Fellow Michael Crow, President of Arizona State University, and Martha Bohrt, Interim Executive Director of the National Association of Schools of Public Administration and Policy (NASPAA), join host and Academy President & CEO James-Christian Blockwood to tackle a big question: How does public administration education need to change? From widening continuing education opportunities to the benefits of accreditation and independent review, these experts in the field of higher education explore the future of education, how to get there, and what it means for students across the globe. Management Matters is a presentation of the National Academy of Public Administration produced by Lizzie Alwan and Matt Hampton and edited by Matt Hampton. Support the Podcast Today at: donate@napawash.org or 202-347-3190 | |||
| Equity On Trial with Academy Fellows Kimberly Walton and Chris Koliba | 04 Aug 2025 | 00:21:06 | |
What is the role of government in facilitating an equitable society? What kind of country do we want to live in? Big questions need real answers as government reevaluates and seeks to challenge us to think critically about the role of equity in public life. Academy Fellows Kimberly Walton, CEO of SynergyUSA and formerly of Department of Homeland Security and Department of Commerce, and Chris Koliba, the Edwin O. Stene Distinguished Professor of Public Administration, Policy & Governance at the University of Kansas School of Public Affairs and Administration (SPAA), join Management Matters with James-Christian Blockwood for a discussion about how we should think about equity and diversity in the Trump era. Support the Podcast Today at: | |||
| Navigating the Evolving Landscape of National Security: Highlights from an Academy Critical Conversation with Jane Holl Lute, Mike McCord and Peter Levine | 28 Jul 2025 | 00:27:30 | |
This episode features highlights from our timely and candid Critical Conversation exploring the evolving landscape of U.S. national defense and homeland security. Our distinguished panel of Academy Fellows will examine how to align strategy, resources, and operational readiness in a rapidly changing environment. Support the Podcast Today at: | |||
| What are the limits of modern executive power? Checks and balances with Academy Fellow Robert Shea and Yuval Levin of American Enterprise Institute | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:24:17 | |
In this episode of Management Matters, host James-Christian Blockwood explores the evolving dynamics between the executive branch, Congress, and the judiciary with guests Yuval Levin of American Enterprise Institute and Academy Fellow Robert Shea of GovNavigators. The discussion delves into the (self-imposed) weakening role of Congress, the impact of expanding populism on public administration and the federal workforce, and the current and future roles of the judiciary in maintaining constitutional balance. 01:22 The Role of Congress in the Balance of Power 06:16 Judicial Oversight and the Courts 10:25 Federal Workforce and Accountability 14:51 Populism and Government Criticism 17:35 Opportunities for Government Reform 21:25 Final Thoughts on Democratic Institutions Support the Podcast Today at: | |||
| Next Generation or Final Frontier - Is Federal Science Under Threat? With Marcia McNutt of the National Academy of Sciences and former USDA Chief Scientist Chavonda Jacobs-Young | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:29:37 | |
Host James-Christian Blockwood discusses the status of science and government with Marcia McNutt, President of the National Academy of Sciences, and Chavonda Jacobs-Young, former Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics, and Chief Scientist at the US Department of Agriculture. They address the challenges facing the scientific community, including funding cuts, workforce issues, public trust, and the need for international collaboration. They emphasize the importance of science in addressing societal challenges and the critical need for federal investment to maintain the US's global leadership in science and technology. The discussion highlights the potential short-term, medium-term, and long-term impacts of reduced federal funding for science and stresses the importance of scientific integrity and data-driven policymaking in government. Support the Podcast Today at: Episode music: Hope by Mixaund | https://mixaund.bandcamp.com Follow us on YouTube for clips and more: @NAPAWASH_YT | |||
| U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va) visits AI in the Public Sector in this Special Crossover Episode | 07 Jul 2025 | 00:26:18 | |
Special Crossover Episode with AI in the Public Sector, Season 3! AI has the potential to transform the way citizens interact with the government and the way agencies deliver services to citizens. In previous episodes in this series we have heard from a number of Executive Branch leaders on the promises and potential risks of AI and how it's starting to transform government -- internal processes, service delivery, cybersecurity, and so on. Today, we turn our attention to the branch of government at the other end of Pennsylvania Avenue and hear from Congressman Don Beyer, the Representative from Virginia's 8th congressional district. He's served in that position since 2015. The district is in the heart of Northern Virginia and includes Alexandria, Falls Church and Arlington. Let's see how some Congressional leaders are viewing AI and their early thinking about its potential. | |||
| Funding Democracy: Stepping up or Overstepping? with Xavier de Souza Briggs of Brookings Institution and Daniel Stid of American Enterprise Institute | 30 Jun 2025 | 00:27:59 | |
James-Christian Blockwood hosts Xavier de Souza Briggs of the Brookings Institution and Daniel Stid of American Enterprise Institute. This conversation explores the multifaceted role of philanthropy in society, particularly in the context of governance, civil society, and the impact of the Trump administration on nonprofits and higher education. Briggs and Stid discuss the historical significance of philanthropy, its influence on policy, and the challenges faced by educational institutions. They also examine trends in charitable giving and the importance of maintaining a pluralistic approach to philanthropy for the future of civic engagement. Support the Podcast Today at: Episode music: Hope by Mixaund | https://mixaund.bandcamp.com Follow us on YouTube for clips and more: @NAPAWASH_YT | |||
| "The Leader's Job is to Provide Hope" - Martin O'Malley and Bob McDonald on Executive Leadership | 23 Jun 2025 | 00:30:06 | |
In this episode of Management Matters, host James-Christian Blockwood talks with Secretary Bob McDonald and Commissioner Martin O'Malley, two seasoned government executives from Veterans Affairs and the Social Security Administration, to discuss approaches to public service, leadership philosophies, and the transformative changes they implemented in their respective roles. They explore the challenges of modernizing government, the importance of leadership in change management, and the role of data-driven decision-making and technology in improving government services. The conversation also touches on the future of Social Security and veteran services, emphasizing the need for hope and effective leadership in navigating these challenges. Support the Podcast Today at: Episode music: Hope by Mixaund | https://mixaund.bandcamp.com Follow us on YouTube for clips and more: @NAPAWASH_YT | |||
| Long Time Coming - Former Commissioners Danny Werfel and John Koskinen on what's next for the Internal Revenue Service | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:31:22 | |
As the Senate votes to confirm new IRS Commissioner Billy Long, w e welcome two titans of IRS leadership, former Commissioners Danny Werfel and John Koskinen, both Academy fellows. They discuss the challenges and changes at the IRS, including budget cuts, workforce reductions, and the impact on taxpayer services. Support the Podcast Today at: Episode music: Hope by Mixaund | https://mixaund.bandcamp.com Follow us on YouTube for clips and more: @NAPAWASH_YT | |||
| One Big, Beautiful Bill or Budget Disaster? Former Comptroller General David Walker and Brett Loper of the Peterson Foundation | 06 Jun 2025 | 00:32:42 | |
While Congress, the President, and Elon Musk trade insults and accusations, we're joined by Former Comptroller General and author David Walker, and Brett Loper, Executive Vice President of Policy at the Peter G. Peterson Foundation to look at the enormous challenges of the current budget reconciliation process. Political leaders are strongly divided over the long-term implications of H.R. 1 “One Big, Beautiful Bill Act.” Tax cuts, changes to Medicaid and health care coverage, and the impact on our national debt are some of the most contentious issues. We dive into critical fiscal challenges, break down the issues with what many experts call an unsustainable fiscal path, the role of Congress in solving (or worsening) the problem, and the importance of public awareness. Support the Podcast Today at: Episode music: Hope by Mixaund | https://mixaund.bandcamp.com Follow us on YouTube for clips and more: @NAPAWASH_YT | |||
| Waste, Fraud, Abuse and Efficiency -U.S. Comptroller General Gene Dodaro and Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Justice Michael Horowitz | 02 Jun 2025 | 00:27:28 | |
Government efficiency is THE topic of conversation since the start of President Trump's second term. But does the government already have the tools to prevent waste, fraud and abuse? Who's conducting oversight already, and how? We're joined by U.S. Comptroller General Gene Dodaro and Inspector General of the Department of Justice Michael Horowitz to talk about how the government already has a substantial efficiency toolkit that predates the Department of Government Efficiency. | |||
| Larry Allen of GSA on the Impact of AI on Government Acquisition: Special Crossover with GovExecTV | 26 May 2025 | 00:38:02 | |
AI has the potential to transform the way citizens interact with the government and the way agencies deliver services to citizens. In previous episodes we have heard from a number of Executive Branch leaders on the promises and potential risks of AI and how it's starting to transform government -- internal processes, service delivery, cybersecurity, and so on. The General Services Administration (GSA) will be in the forefront of this transformation as both a lighthouse account in the application of AI and also as the lead arm for government to acquire AI technologies. Today we will be joined by Larry Allen, a seasoned veteran in the world of government procurement and contracting, who was recently appointed Associate Administrator for Governmentwide Policy and Chief Acquisition Officer at the General Services Administration. | |||
| The What, How and Why of AI with Jen Pahlka of Code for America and Wole Moses of Microsoft Federal Civilian | 16 May 2025 | 00:27:55 | |
AI is at the center of public debate. What does the future look like when Large Language Models are incorporated into crucial decision-making processes that have, to this point, been almost entirely human. Our guests this week can help us answer fundamental questions about the intersection of technology – specifically AI – and Government. Jen Palhka is an Academy Fellow and author, founder of the U.S. Digital Service and Code for America. Wole Moses is Chief AI Officer, Federal Civilian at Microsoft, helping governments integrate and upgrade new technology. | |||
| Between Two Dons - The Impact on Public Service after 100 Days of Trump with Don Moynihan and Don Kettl | 09 May 2025 | 00:39:43 | |
After a brief hiatus, we're back! In this episode of the new and refreshed Management Matters, host and Academy President James-Christian Blockwood discusses the impact of President Trump's first 100 days on public management with experts and Academy Fellows Don Moynihan and Don Kettl. They cover the challenges and opportunities in efforts toward government efficiency, the role of civil servants, and the administration's highly controversial approach to "reform." Find out who gave the administration a failing grade so far, and who wants civil servants to embody the spirit of John Wayne in this episode! Support the Podcast Today at: Episode music: Hope by Mixaund | https://mixaund.bandcamp.com | |||
| MM Rewind: Performance Management and an Effective Government with Jonathan Womer | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:32:56 | |
Originally Aired, February 5, 2024 In this episode, we welcome Jonathan Womer, Director of the Department of Administration for Rhode Island and Academy Fellow, to discuss tailoring performance management techniques to individual states, recommendations for engaging with communities, and how to keep government effective over the long term. | |||
| MM Rewind: What States are Doing to Promote Hiring with Joe Barela | 14 Apr 2025 | 00:32:21 | |
Originally Aired, February 5, 2024 In this episode, we welcome Academy Fellow Joe Barela, Colorado's Executive Director of Labor and Employment, to discuss Colorado's workforce practices, including its workforce center, its skills-based hiring initiative, and the changes in the full ecosystem of employment. Links: | |||
| MM Rewind: Strengthening Democracy through Accountability with Dr. Chris Koliba | 07 Apr 2025 | 00:30:18 | |
Originally Aired: July 1, 2024 In this episode, we welcome Chris Koliba, Distinguished Professor at the University of Kansas School of Public Affairs and Administration and Academy Fellow, to discuss liberal democratic accountability standards, inclusive governance, and ways to strengthen democracy in today's environment. | |||
| MM Rewind: Defining Good Governance with John Koskinen | 31 Mar 2025 | 00:31:06 | |
Originally Aired: September 23, 2024 In this episode, we welcome John Koskinen, Former Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service and Academy Fellow, to discuss the importance of transparency and accountability, as well as how relationship-building can lead to more effective problem-solving. | |||
| AI in Election Security: Lessons Learned and the road ahead with Marci Andino, John Cohen, and John Gilligan | 17 Mar 2025 | 00:37:49 | |
This originally aired on GovExec TV. The 2024 elections concluded smoothly, but what lessons did we learn about AI’s impact on election security? A distinguished panel—including John Gilligan of the Center for Internet Security, John Cohen of DHS, and Marci Andino, former State Election Director for South Carolina—explores the role of AI in identifying threats, managing misinformation, and supporting electoral integrity. In this episode of GovExec TV, uncover the pivotal role AI played in securing the democratic process. Panelists Include:
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| AI in the Public Sector: GenAI in Governance | 10 Mar 2025 | 00:36:11 | |
This originally aired on GovExec TV. The IBM Center for the Business of Government has unveiled “Navigating Generative AI in Government,” a comprehensive report authored by Alex Richter. This session delves into the report’s findings, offering strategic pathways for integrating generative AI across government operations. Featuring the report’s author and Dan Chenok, Executive Director of the IBM Center, this discussion provides actionable insights for public sector leaders. In this episode of GovExec TV, learn how generative AI is transforming governance. Panelists Include:
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| Emerging Trends in AI with David Wennergren & Gary Shapiro | 03 Mar 2025 | 00:26:21 | |
This originally aired on GovExec TV. The 2025 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) promises a glimpse into the future of AI and its transformative implications for government and governance. Gary Shapiro, CEO of the Consumer Technology Association, shares highlights from CES and insights from his book, “Pivot or Die: How Leaders Thrive When Everything Changes.” Gain a sneak peek at emerging trends set to shape the next chapter of AI innovation. In this episode of GovExec TV, discover the cutting-edge AI technologies poised to redefine our world. Panelists Include:
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| The States as AI Laboratories with Alan Shark & Doug Robinson | 24 Feb 2025 | 00:34:34 | |
This originally aired on GovExec TV. State governments are at the forefront of AI innovation, leveraging their role as "laboratories of innovation" to pioneer new applications. Amanda Crawford, Texas CIO and NASCIO President, and Doug Robinson, Executive Director of NASCIO, will unpack key insights from their report, “Generating Opportunity: The Risks and Rewards of Generative AI in State Government.” Learn how states are creating policies and frameworks to harness AI's potential while mitigating its risks. In this episode of GovExec TV, explore the states’ approach to generative AI. Panelists Include:
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| Wendy Bhagat, Martha Dorris, & James McCament on the Evolution of AI Government Services | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:41:49 | |
This originally aired on GovExec TV. Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing how citizens interact with government agencies and access services. Leaders like Chief AI Officers (CAIOs), CX/EX Officers, and Chief Transformation Officers are driving impactful projects at the IRS, Social Security Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, and beyond. Join CX pioneer Martha Dorris as she co-moderates this session, highlighting early successes and compelling case studies in AI-driven service delivery. In this episode of GovExec TV, discover how AI is reshaping government services. Panelists Include:
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| Special Edition Crossover Episode: Laura Stanton on Technology Innovation and Procurement Strategies | 03 Feb 2025 | 00:37:54 | |
This is a crossover episode of the Business Government Hour
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| Special Edition Crossover Episode: Suzanne Vares-Lum on Strengthening East-West Relations | 27 Jan 2025 | 00:29:58 | |
This is a crossover episode of the Business Government Hour | |||
| Special Edition Crossover Episode: Francis Fukuyama on Democratic Institutions and Public Service | 20 Jan 2025 | 00:22:07 | |
This is a crossover episode of the Business Government Hour | |||
| Special Edition Crossover Episode: Ed DeSeve on Public Service and Agile Strategies | 13 Jan 2025 | 00:29:20 | |
This is a crossover episode of the Business Government Hour | |||
| MM Rewind: Competence in Government with Janet Hale | 06 Jan 2025 | 00:29:40 | |
Originally Aired: September 2, 2024 | |||
| Special Edition Crossover Episode: Strategies and Insights for Leading through the Unexpected with Chris Mihm | 30 Dec 2024 | 00:31:29 | |
This is a crossover episode of the Business Government Hour | |||
| A Field Guide for Financing Integrated Data Systems and Evaluation in the Public Sector | 23 Dec 2024 | 00:30:47 | |
In this episode, we welcome Academy Fellows, Kathy Stack and Pari Sabety, and Academy Director of Studies, Brenna Isman, to discuss the Academy's new guidance to empower policy, data, and finance leaders at all levels of government with a shared understanding of how to leverage and combine funding for robust, efficient integrated data systems and evaluation capacity.
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| A Playbook for Organizational Health with John Kamensky, Joe Mitchell, and Amanda Mullan | 16 Dec 2024 | 00:26:40 | |
In this episode, we welcome Academy Fellow, John Kamensky, Academy Director of Strategic Initiatives and International Programs, Dr. Joe Mitchell, and Academy Project Director, Amanda Mullan, to discuss the Academy's new report on Organizational Health and Performance and how it compares to the 2018 Academy report.
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| The 2024 Presidential Election as a Stress Test for American Democracy | 09 Dec 2024 | 00:58:20 | |
In this episode, we share remarks from the plenary session at the Academy's 2024 Fall Meeting. In the panel, moderated by Chris Koliba, Sara Mogulescu, Jodi Sandfort, and Paul Verkuil discuss the implications of the 2024 election on democratic institutions and the public service. | |||
| The 2024 Webb Lecture with Jennifer Rubin | 02 Dec 2024 | 00:57:47 | |
In this episode, we share remarks from Webb Lecture speaker, Jennifer Rubin, at the Academy's 2024 Fall Meeting. In the lecture, Rubin discusses the upcoming administration and how public servants may need to adapt. | |||
| How to Communicate about Good Government with Dr. Frank Luntz | 25 Nov 2024 | 00:37:18 | |
In this episode, we share remarks from Dr. Frank Luntz at the Academy's 2024 Fall Meeting. In the lecture, Dr. Luntz discusses the effect of language on public administration and public policy outcomes. | |||
| The Importance of Public Administration and Liberal Democracy with Rep. Jamie Raskin (Opening Staats Lecture from Academy 2024 Fall Meeting) | 18 Nov 2024 | 00:35:12 | |
In this episode of Management Matters, we are sharing remarks from Congressman Jamie Raskin's Elmer Staats Lecture at the Academy's 2024 Fall Meeting. In the lecture, Congressman Raskin speaks on why the field of public administration is more vital than ever. | |||
| The Evolving Nature of Informal Policymaking with Melinda Ritchie | 11 Nov 2024 | 00:26:48 | |
In this episode, we welcome Melinda Ritchie, associate professor in the Department of Political Science at the Ohio State University, to discuss her Brownlow award winning book on backdoor lawmaking, and the importance of trust and transparency as this type of lawmaking evolves. | |||
| Practical Considerations of Making Government AI Ready with Alexis Bonnell | 04 Nov 2024 | 00:34:52 | |
In this episode, we welcome Alexis Bonnell, CIO and Director Digital Capabilities Directorate at the Air Force Research Laboratory and Academy Fellow, to discuss a continuous learning mindset regarding technology, the phases of learning and using AI, and what the future of working with AI may look like for public administrators. Follow | |||
| Characteristics of a Transparent Government with Bob Westbrooks | 28 Oct 2024 | 00:27:49 | |
In this episode, we welcome Bob Westbrooks, former Inspector General and Academy Fellow, to discuss his work on transparency in Ukraine, why transparency resonates with the American public, and how agencies can balance transparency with security. Follow | |||
| Creating a Better Understanding of the Election System with Shannon Portillo | 21 Oct 2024 | 00:31:59 | |
In this episode, we welcome Shannon Portillo, Director of the School of Public Affairs at Arizona State University and Academy Fellow, to discuss the mechanics of ASU's democracy lab, the safety and security of election officials, and encouraging voter participation. Follow | |||
| Performance Management and an Effective Government with Jonathan Womer | 14 Oct 2024 | 00:32:56 | |
In this episode, we welcome Jonathan Womer, Director of the Department of Administration for Rhode Island and Academy Fellow, to discuss tailoring performance management techniques to individual states, recommendations for engaging with communities, and how to keep government effective over the long term. Follow | |||
| The Importance of Civic Engagement and Inclusion with Mindy Romero | 07 Oct 2024 | 00:37:09 | |
In this episode, we welcome Mindy Romero, Director and Founder of the Center for Inclusive Democracy (CID) at USC and Academy Fellow, to discuss the importance of representation in civic engagement and her expectations of voter information in the upcoming November election Follow | |||
| Implications of International and Financial Markets on US Fiscal Health with Heath Tarbert | 30 Sep 2024 | 00:31:57 | |
In this episode, we welcome Heath Tarbert, Chief Legal Officer and Head of Corporate Affairs for Circle and Academy Fellow, to discuss the impacts of international markets on US fiscal health, the importance of education regarding the nation's fiscal debt, and emerging financial issues including digital currency. | |||
| Defining Good Governance with John Koskinen | 23 Sep 2024 | 00:31:06 | |
In this episode, we welcome John Koskinen, Former Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service and Academy Fellow, to discuss the importance of transparency and accountability, as well as how relationship-building can lead to more effective problem-solving. | |||
| CBO's Role in Measuring and Monitoring the Nation's Fiscal Health with Theresa Gullo | 16 Sep 2024 | 00:31:33 | |
In this episode, we welcome Theresa Gullo, Former Director of Budget Analysis at the Congressional Budget Office Official and Academy Fellow, to discuss the CBO's role in supporting the nation's fiscal health, tradeoff scenarios to improve the debt situation, and what a new administration could do to better the US' financial position. | |||
| Intergovernmental Approaches to Homelessness with Rich Callahan and Katherine Willoughby | 09 Sep 2024 | 00:34:24 | |
In this episode, we welcome Rich Callahan, Professor at the University of San Francisco and Academy Fellow, and Katherine Willoughby, Professor at the University of Georgia School of Public Administration and Academy Fellow, to discuss lessons learned from the Academy's Homelessness Working Group's recent report on the intergovernmental challenges of reducing homelessness. | |||
| Competence in Government with Janet Hale | 02 Sep 2024 | 00:29:40 | |
In this episode, we welcome Janet Hale, former government official and Academy Fellow, to discuss the importance of competence in government and what it looked like at different departments including the Department of Homeland Security. | |||
| Enhancing Customer Experience with Martha Dorris | 26 Aug 2024 | 00:32:41 | |
In this episode, we welcome Martha Dorris, Founder of Dorris Consulting International and Academy Fellow, to discuss the importance of efficient service delivery and best practices for enhancing customer experience. | |||
| How Communities can Finance Resilient Infrastructure with Shayne Kavanagh and Miles Murphy | 19 Aug 2024 | 00:34:51 | |
In this episode, we welcome Shayne Kavanagh, Senior Manager of Research for the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) and Academy Fellow, and Miles Murphy, Senior Analyst at the Academy, to discuss common concerns when investing in resilient infrastructure, the impact of uncertainty in preparing communities for natural disasters, and solutions communities can implement even with constrained resources. | |||
| How Public Health Programs Support Resilient Communities with Michelle Alletto | 12 Aug 2024 | 00:29:04 | |
In this episode, we welcome Michelle Alletto, Texas Health and Human Services Chief Program and Services Officer and Academy Fellow, to discuss public health programs contributing to resilience, what good government looks like in the area of resilience, and the importance of intersectoral and intergovernmental relationships. | |||