Policy and Governance Perspectives Building a well-rounded educational institution starts with bringing the people together. Creating genuine connections nurtured by enlightening discussions is one great path towards a stronger community. This is the heart of Policy and Governance Perspectives, the official podcast initiative of the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University. Tune in to in-depth and thought-provoking conversations about policy, politics, governance, and career pathways. Every student, alumnus, and friend in the political sphere will certainly find it interesting and engaging.

Join Dr. David Ramadan, Professor of Practice at the Schar School of Policy and Government, as he sits down with elected officials, professors, alumni, policymakers, and thought leaders to discuss timely events, legislative developments, and professional advice relevant to the institution’s mission and coursework.

As one of the most reputable educational names in the country, Schar School is dedicated to offering cutting-edge programs taught by well-equipped professors to shape the next generation of leaders. They are committed to producing intelligent, humble, compassionate, and hard-working citizens who can strategically manage resources, evaluate complex policies, and recognize emerging threats. Through this podcast, they uphold this mission by waging a battle against misinformation and disinformation.

Delve into topics that matter in today’s educational and political landscape that directly impact young people’s learning and eventual career journey. This not only serves as a signature platform reflecting the excellence and energy of the Schar School of Policy and Government but also as a unique opportunity to bring people together within and outside the academic community.

While each guest openly shares real-life experiences and expert opinions, everything is backed up with proper data and research, not fabricated news or biased thoughts. Whenever the discussion goes deep into the most serious social issues or delves into the politics directly affecting how policies are formed, you are assured of balanced and verified information. These episodes are the epitome of how intelligent and provocative conversations must be done - free from sensationalism, filters, and unnecessary conflict, only the plain, unadulterated truth.

This show not only brings the Schar School of Policy and Government community together but also serves as common ground for people from both sides of the aisle.Whatever your color, belief, or ideology, you are assured of getting informative and insightful discussions that will open your eyes to the reality of the status quo. Who knows, maybe this is your chance to learn something new or change your perspectives for the better!

Your host, Dr. Ramadan, brings to the podcast his own share of expertise and experiences. As a former elected official in the Virginia House of Delegates and a professor for 25 years, he skillfully brings together education and politics in this podcast. He knows which policies, initiatives, and efforts will truly benefit schools and students in the long run, and what must be done to transform such noble goals into reality.

This show uses podcasting as an effective way to bring people together to talk about society’s most pressing issues. Join Dr. Ramadan in knitting a closer, stronger, and more inspiring Schar School community, all while discussing policies, political updates, and education matters everyone should know about. Whether you are a student, a professor, an alumnus, or someone curious about the most important things happening around you, get ready to be inspired, elevate your perspectives, and expand the openness of your mind.

The Schar School of Policy and Government is always committed to shaping leaders in their respective fields and building a much brighter tomorrow. This podcast is also committed to doing the same.

Tune in: Policy and Governance Perspectives at http://schar.gmu.edu/podcast

]]>en-usfalseDavid Ramadan, Schar School at George Mason Universityhttps://schar.gmu.edu/David Ramadandramada1@gmu.eduepisodicCopyright 2025 | All Rights Reserved | Women’s Representation Under Attack With Katherine Spillar And Dr. Bonnie Stabileqd6jy-goeTue, 12 May 2026 10:00:00 GMT2561https://schar.gmu.edu/falseWomen’s representation in the United States is under attack by the administration and the right-wing movement. They are prevented from joining the workforce, getting access to proper healthcare, and letting their voices be heard. David Ramadan and guest co-host Dr. Bonnie Stabile discuss the current state of the women’s movement with Katherine Spillar, Executive Editor of Ms. Magazine. Together, they emphasize the need to secure more women in decision-making positions of power to shape laws and policies centered on women's equality. Kathy also talks about her mission to put women’s stories and challenges into the spotlight, something which mainstream media greatly ignores.


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]]>121The Persisterhood Project With Robbin Warner And Abbi Tesreau6snL56ljVSun, 10 May 2026 10:00:00 GMT1644https://schar.gmu.edu/falseHistory has repeatedly shown that women are consistently involved in organizing and leading movements dedicated to social change, but their voices are often suppressed, set aside, or completely forgotten. The Persisterhood Project at George Mason aims to change that. Joining David Ramadan are two brilliant women behind it: Dr. Robbin Warner, Research Affiliate Faculty at the Schar School and Founder and Co-Director of the Persisterhood Project, and Abbi Tesreau, one of the project's Founding Student Researchers. They explore the initiative’s mission to archive inspiring stories of women activists from 2016 to the present, preserving their oral history for posterity’s sake. Robbin and Abbi also share why this project is needed now more than ever – when democracy and women’s voices are extremely at risk.


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]]>120A Closer Look Into The Virginia General Assembly With Chairman Marcus Simon And Greg BrandonnyVTWybmoWed, 01 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT2272https://schar.gmu.edu/falseThe Virginia General Assembly is currently in session, and it is laser-focused on making big changes that will impact the lives of every citizen. Joining David Ramadan and co-host Commander Greg Brandon is the General Assembly’s chairman, Marcus Simon. Together, they discuss the state’s efforts to bolster public safety, from improving work relations with ICE to changing regulations about gun ownership. Marcus also explains their plans for redistricting, as well as why it is highly similar but still vastly different from gerrymandering. Find out what your elected officials are doing for everyone’s sake and what you can do as a citizen to let your voice be heard.


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]]>119Bringing Data Centers To Space With Dr. Shareef Al Romaithi And Hina KazmiSlR5b5sbGWed, 11 Mar 2026 10:00:00 GMT3501https://schar.gmu.edu/falseData centers are going beyond the cloud and into the vastness of space. David Ramadan and his co-host Hina Kazmi explore this off-world progress with his guest Dr. Shareef Al Romaithi, CEO of Madari Space. Together, they explore the business, policy, and governance of space-based data infrastructure, which could be essential in building secure orbital data centers in low Earth orbit. They also discuss the colossal technical hurdles of bringing data centers into space, from the huge launch costs to the ever-increasing space debris. Discover how we can work together to ensure such an innovation can benefit the entire human race.

]]>118Understanding The American Legion With Captain Len Wales And Colonel Glenn YarboroughXE_plecCYWed, 04 Mar 2026 11:00:00 GMT2421https://schar.gmu.edu/falseThe American Legion – you know the name. Everyone does. But they are more than just a group of old veterans at a bar. What are their duties, and how do they impact the next generation of our armed forces and society as a whole? David Ramadan sits down with two distinguished leaders: Captain Len Wales, a Commander of McLean American Legion Post 270, and Colonel Glenn Yarborough, who served 2017 years in the US Army in Armor and Cavalry units. Together, they discuss the activities and programs organized by the American Legion for the youth, families, and communities. They also explore what the largest veteran’s organization today is doing to address loneliness and food insecurity faced by aging soldiers.


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]]>117Running A Municipal Government With Hon. Catherine ReadZ-4-_uoTIWed, 18 Feb 2026 11:00:00 GMT2483https://schar.gmu.edu/falseMunicipal government may be the closest level of authority in every home, but it seems many people do not really understand how it runs. David Ramadan unpacks what it is like to run a municipality with the Hon. Catherine Read, the first woman mayor of Fairfax City and the first George Mason graduate to hold that office. Together, they discuss the responsibilities and powers of a municipal mayor, as well as the city manager and the municipal council. Mayor Read also presents the biggest issues in Fairfax City on top of her priority list, from improving the transformation system to navigating high-density housing.


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]]>116A Potential Energy Crisis With Richard Kauzlarich And Paul Bubbosh7K3rXeHanWed, 11 Feb 2026 11:00:00 GMT2836https://schar.gmu.edu/falseVirginia could be facing a once-in-a-generation energy crisis due to the explosive growth of data centers, AI demand, and electricity bills. If we fail to address its red flags as soon as possible, we are doomed. David Ramadan explores what must be done to stop this problem from worsening with Ambassador (ret) Richard Kauzlarich, Co-Director of the Center for Energy Science and Policy (CESP), and Paul Bubbosh, former Director of the Energy Security Division in the U.S. Department of Energy. They share how they worked on the Virginia Energy Report, which outlines practical solutions to the commonwealth’s current energy problems. They also discuss what it takes to create top-down policy tools and bottom-up local action and education to establish long-term energy infrastructures.


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]]>115The Future OF Fusion Energy And AI With Hon. Don Beyerp8Fu1cBkAWed, 21 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT1967https://schar.gmu.edu/falseIf we give fusion energy and AI tools a chance instead of being anxious about them, the future of society could be equally exciting and promising. Joining David Ramadan to discuss these topics is a most unique guest: 75-year-old Congressman Don Beyer, who has recently returned to school at George Mason University to study computer science. Together, they discuss how fusion power plants can produce virtually limitless energy that could solve the climate crisis and alleviate poverty. They also shed light on how AI, no matter how complicated it becomes, can be used to improve and speed up work processes, particularly in the government. This conversation on the intersection of technology, energy, and democracy will open your eyes to the surprisingly hopeful tomorrow for America.


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]]>114The Truth Behind The Chinese Military With Dr. Timothy Heath & Dr. John Gordon2UkuDlSxsWed, 14 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT2160https://schar.gmu.edu/falseIs the Chinese military gearing up for war against Taiwan? What does it mean for global security, deterrence, and the stability of the Indo-Pacific region? David Ramadan unpacks the truth behind the mission and motives of the People’s Liberation Army with Dr. Timothy Heath and Dr. John Gordon. They discuss the biggest misconceptions about the Chinese military, its strongest and weakest aspects, and its characteristics that make it a political army. They also talk about how the United States is preparing right now in case China wages war on Taiwan – and why the Chinese cannot stand a chance against US retaliation.


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]]>113State Of US Intelligence With Andrew McCabe & Gregory CrabbW4DXpoCB1Wed, 07 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT2606https://schar.gmu.edu/falseUS intelligence is the key to maintaining national security, state welfare, and peace across the land. David Ramadan takes a deep dive into how decisions are made at the highest levels of government with Andrew McCabe, former Deputy Director at FBI, and Gregory Crabb, former CISO at USPS. They explore how their neighborhood friendship and bike rides have given birth to groundbreaking ideas on securing the nation’s mail and elections. They also share insights into their biggest intelligence policy challenges and how they handled them, the current state of our election security, and what they would do if given the chance to become US cyber czar for a day.


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]]>112Fairfax County’s Current Issues With Hon. Jeffrey C. McKay & Theo StamatisEPZdW14OGWed, 17 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT2884https://schar.gmu.edu/falseFairfax County is one of the most important economic engines in the Commonwealth of Virginia. But due to economic pressures from federal cutbacks, the recent government shutdown, and the crippling housing market, this region is currently facing some serious issues. David Ramadan breaks down the county’s biggest problems with Hon. Jeff McKay, Chairman of Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, and guest co-host Theo Stamatis. Together, they discuss what must be done to address the massive drop in available jobs, the alarming number of displaced federal employees, and the negative impact of DOGE cuts. Chairman McKay also explains how empowering small businesses and building more mixed-use buildings can help replenish Fairfax County’s wealth and solve its fiscal issues.


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]]>111Fixing The Broken Lobbying System With Brody Mullins And David RehrGS9kiKJvaWed, 10 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT2341https://schar.gmu.edu/falseThe US Constitution clearly states that lobbying is legal. However, systemic corruption in Washington has turned it into a playground of billionaires and the powerful. David Ramadan delves into this shadowy world of political power with Brody Mullins, a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter for The Wall Street Journal, and guest co-host David Rehr, a former high-profile lobbyist. Together, they break down how lobbying tactics have evolved from smoke-filled rooms and relationship-based approaches to uncapped and undisclosed Super PACs. They also present possible solutions to fix this broken billion-dollar machine that currently shapes American policy and puts public participation in reforms into jeopardy.


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]]>110Addressing Virginia’s Energy Issues With Hon. Glenn Davis & Dr. Michael WebbMFGznA785Wed, 03 Dec 2025 11:00:00 GMT2887https://schar.gmu.edu/falseVirginia is currently facing a number of energy issues, particularly with the rising costs and an increasing inability to meet consumer and climate demands. David Ramadan and guest co-host Dr. Michael Webb unpack how to take care of these problems before it is too late with Hon. Glenn Davis, Director of the Virginia Department of Energy. Together, they discuss how energy is produced, regulated, and distributed, highlighting the role of PJM Interconnection in running the entire power grid. They also break down how bipartisan politics is affecting energy policies and why fusion reactors could be the next big thing for energy production.


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]]>19Dissecting 2025 Election Results With J. Miles Coleman And Kyle KondikQ9DJFLA8MWed, 26 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT2346https://schar.gmu.edu/falseDespite countless frictions and hurdles, the 2025 election results swung in favor of the Democratic Party. How did they manage to do this, and what could it mean for the country? David Ramadan answers these questions with Kyle Kondik and J. Miles Coleman from Sabato’s Crystal Ball, one of the most respected election forecasting teams in the country. Together, they take a closer look at the winners (and losers) of the election, particularly in Virginia and New Jersey, to determine how this will shape the 2026 cycle. They also unpack the most surprising things about the 2025 elections, particularly the shifting political winds in key states, as well as how the government shutdown impacted voter turnout.


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]]>18Improving Pandemic Readiness With Michael Osterholm And Gregory KoblentzTod5W6nv0Wed, 19 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT2619https://schar.gmu.edu/falseDespite many losses, humanity was able to get through the COVID-19 pandemic. But if we are to experience yet another outbreak on a global scale, how good is our pandemic readiness? David Ramadan and his guest co-host Gregory Koblentz sit down with renowned epidemiologist Michael Osterholm to discuss how the world should prepare to ensure that the next pandemic will not catch us off guard. They pinpoint the shortcomings of the COVID-19 response, particularly with vaccine integrity and lockdown implementation. They also explore how to address the massive problem of “infodemic,” as well as how young people can make a stand against misinformation and disinformation.


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]]>17War In Ukraine: A Journalist’s Experience With Mary McAuliffe And Ellen LaipsonmL0ghJFTOWed, 12 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT2089https://schar.gmu.edu/falseThe war in Ukraine continues to rage, and with no end in sight, the people there continue to suffer. David Ramadan and guest co-host Prof. Ellen Laipson sit down with reporter and news producer Mary McAuliffe, who shares her experiences living in war-torn Ukraine. She explains what daily life looks like in the country while living under the threat of Russian invasion, the resilience of its people, and the high costs of people's displacement. Mary also talks about her interactions with US military troops deployed in Ukraine, as well as the impact of US policies on the state of the ongoing conflict.


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]]>16A Deeper Look Into The Media Today With Mark Halperin And Dr. David RehrnQZdSun2AWed, 05 Nov 2025 11:00:00 GMT1847https://schar.gmu.edu/falseWith the digital world and people’s attention rapidly evolving, the media landscape also adapts quickly to catch up and stay relevant. David Ramadan sits down with guest co-host Dr. David Rehr and journalist Mark Halperin to dissect the state of media today, particularly with how it covers the most divisive political stories right now. Mark explains the role of independent journalism, including his own platform 2WAY, in presenting unbiased commentaries to foster diverse conversations and community engagement. They also share insights about the worsening problem of redistricting and gerrymandering, as well as the things to expect as we get near the elections.


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]]>15Reserves With Commanders Sean Purdy And Dan Matthews3oURE2rt8Wed, 29 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT3021https://schar.gmu.edu/falseReserves are an often overlooked pillar of American defense and public service. When you dig deeper, you will realize that they are more than just additional fighting forces during times of emergency. David Ramadan takes a closer look at the roles and responsibilities of the United States Army Reserve with his guest co-host Commander Dan Matthews and his guest Commander Sean Purdy. Together, they explore how Reserves continue to strengthen the connection between civilian life and national service because of their particular professional skills and career backgrounds. They also discuss how modern technology continues to transform the public service work of Reserves and the US military as a whole.


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]]>14Freedom Of Speech And Democracy: Defending Civil Discourse In Divided Times With Barbara Comstock And Walter Olson2g6D5mK1JWed, 22 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT2463https://schar.gmu.edu/falseFreedom of Speech stands at the heart of American democracy—and yet it faces new challenges in the age of polarization, executive overreach, and digital activism. In this episode, David Ramadan is joined by former Congresswoman Barbara Comstock and Walter Olson, Senior Fellow at the Cato Institute, for a powerful discussion on protecting free expression amid shifting political tides. They unpack the constitutional implications of recent executive actions, the danger of weaponizing nonprofit regulations, and how universities can preserve open discourse while maintaining inclusivity. From Capitol Hill to the classroom, the guests reveal what it takes to safeguard one of our nation’s most essential rights.


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]]>13Dealing With Yet Another Government Shutdown With Steve Ellis And Dr. Jeremy MayerLcq8tnlx-Wed, 15 Oct 2025 10:01:00 GMT1752https://schar.gmu.edu/falseThe United States faces a government shutdown – again. How should we take care of it and what must be done to prevent it from happening at all? David Ramadan talks all about it with guest co-host Dr. Jeremy Mayer, a professor in the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University, and guest Steve Ellis, president of Taxpayers for Common Sense. Together, they discuss the causes and consequences of government shutdowns, particularly their economic impact and negative effect on public trust. They also explore why a continuing resolution is way better than shutting down the government, the importance of reasserting congressional control over the federal budget, and “making appropriators great again.”


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]]>12The Virginia Way: Bipartisan Lessons In Leadership And Governance With Gov. Robert McDonnell And Gov. Terry McAuliffe2ucEQsmLAWed, 15 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT3495https://schar.gmu.edu/falseIn an era of political division, two former Virginia governors prove that collaboration and integrity still have a place in leadership. Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Schar School's official podcast, "Policy and Governance Perspectives!" In this compelling discussion, we have the privilege of sitting down with two extraordinary public servants and former governors of Virginia, Robert McDonnell and Terry McAuliffe. Join us as they set aside partisan hats to share invaluable lessons learned from their time in office, offering strategic advice for future leaders, and tackling the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the Commonwealth. From budget complexities and legislative relationships to economic growth and the future of higher education, this conversation reveals the shared commitment to public service that transcends political divides and defines "the Virginia way."


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