<![CDATA[The Government Mechanic]]>de696847-bbcc-5096-97f7-ac44ce02f13fFri, 04 Apr 2025 10:00:16 +0000Captivate.fmDr. Lynn S. Kahnhttps://artwork.captivate.fm/621096e7-9b81-4cbd-b19e-3df4870586f6/VJ9IHl5k6CB13bJQDHcMlXMV.pngThe Government MechanicDr. Lynn S. KahnDr. Lynn S. KahnThe Government Mechanic encourages everyone to look under the hood of government, diagnose the real problems and decide what actions will fix what problems. In each episode, discussion reveals the mechanics of fixing broken government agencies, including broken missions, broken goals, and broken measures of success. Our audience includes new agency leaders, change agents already working with agency leaders, or anyone wondering how to change a damaged, dysfunctional agency.https://govmechanic.comfalseepisodicnopodcastThree Reasons 90 Million Americans Hate the Democrats The Government MechanicThree Reasons 90 Million Americans Hate the Democrats The Government MechanicEpisode 26 concludes Season 3, which focused on the failures of family law, family

court, foster care, medical kidnapping and parental alienation. The host, Dr. Lynn

Sandra Kahn, had three final points, found in the title of this episode, 3 reasons why 90

million Americans hate the Democrats. Doctor Kahn aimed her comment at her

Democrat friends, Democrat leadership and progressive podcasters.

First, Dr. Kahn pointed to the 3 million children taken from their homes by child welfare

systems over the past ten years, not because of abuse, but for “neglect” which is often

another word for poverty. So 3 million children, 3 million parents and 3 million significant

others – that’s ten million Americans all traumatized by family law and foster care.

Second, Dr. Kahn points to the 60 million citizens who live in rural America. In 1970 we

had over 648,000 US dairy farms. In 2024 we had 24,470, down 95%. Since the 1970s,

USDA farm policy – formal and informal -- destroyed 600,000 dairy farms. And that

hollowed out 600,000 farming towns for $1 of farm income, farmers spend $0.44 in the

local community buying supplies.

The nail in the coffin came from the Obama administration who decided in 2012 that

whole milk contributed to childhood obesity, and it would be illegal to serve whole milk in

schools. Science recognizes that it takes fat to burn fat, that whole milk is 97% fat free

anyway and that it&#39;s in the fat there we have the vitamins, minerals, probiotics and

amino acids that children especially need to grow healthy bodies and healthy brains and

healthy bones literally. And that&#39;s what Democrats decided would be illegal to serve. Dr.

Kahn calls out the Democrats to Support the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act.

Third, Dr. Kahn points to 20 million veterans, their families and survivors who need the

services of U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Dr. Kahn points to one example of bad

systems and bad policy: in 2013, it took a veteran an average of 347 days to receive a

determination of benefits. By 2024, that was reduced to 149 days. Dr. Kahn asks, “How

long would it take Elon Musk to figure out how to transition the Department of Defense

medical records into the VA medical records instantaneously?”

Dr. Kahn concludes: I don&#39;t like the direction our country is going in. I wish the

Democrats would get their act together. They can start by paying more attention to

families, farmers and veterans and delivering specific improvements to policies and

systems.

Dr. Lynn S Kahn

YouTube Channel: The Government Mechanic

Podcast: The Government Mechanic, wherever you get your podcasts

Website: http://GovMechanic.com

Articles: https://govmechanic.com/category/articles/

LinkedIn: Lynn Sandra Kahn

]]>Episode 26 concludes Season 3, which focused on the failures of family law, family

court, foster care, medical kidnapping and parental alienation. The host, Dr. Lynn

Sandra Kahn, had three final points, found in the title of this episode, 3 reasons why 90

million Americans hate the Democrats. Doctor Kahn aimed her comment at her

Democrat friends, Democrat leadership and progressive podcasters.

First, Dr. Kahn pointed to the 3 million children taken from their homes by child welfare

systems over the past ten years, not because of abuse, but for “neglect” which is often

another word for poverty. So 3 million children, 3 million parents and 3 million significant

others – that’s ten million Americans all traumatized by family law and foster care.

Second, Dr. Kahn points to the 60 million citizens who live in rural America. In 1970 we

had over 648,000 US dairy farms. In 2024 we had 24,470, down 95%. Since the 1970s,

USDA farm policy – formal and informal -- destroyed 600,000 dairy farms. And that

hollowed out 600,000 farming towns for $1 of farm income, farmers spend $0.44 in the

local community buying supplies.

The nail in the coffin came from the Obama administration who decided in 2012 that

whole milk contributed to childhood obesity, and it would be illegal to serve whole milk in

schools. Science recognizes that it takes fat to burn fat, that whole milk is 97% fat free

anyway and that it&#39;s in the fat there we have the vitamins, minerals, probiotics and

amino acids that children especially need to grow healthy bodies and healthy brains and

healthy bones literally. And that&#39;s what Democrats decided would be illegal to serve. Dr.

Kahn calls out the Democrats to Support the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act.

Third, Dr. Kahn points to 20 million veterans, their families and survivors who need the

services of U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Dr. Kahn points to one example of bad

systems and bad policy: in 2013, it took a veteran an average of 347 days to receive a

determination of benefits. By 2024, that was reduced to 149 days. Dr. Kahn asks, “How

long would it take Elon Musk to figure out how to transition the Department of Defense

medical records into the VA medical records instantaneously?”

Dr. Kahn concludes: I don&#39;t like the direction our country is going in. I wish the

Democrats would get their act together. They can start by paying more attention to

families, farmers and veterans and delivering specific improvements to policies and

systems.

Dr. Lynn S Kahn

YouTube Channel: The Government Mechanic

Podcast: The Government Mechanic, wherever you get your podcasts

Website: http://GovMechanic.com

Articles: https://govmechanic.com/category/articles/

LinkedIn: Lynn Sandra Kahn

]]>a32f9a29-71cf-4c86-9aae-71e493db6dd2Fri, 04 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -040013:37falsefull3273273Dr. Lynn S. KahnSummary of Failed Farm and Food Policies and SOLUTIONS E 25 | The Government MechanicSummary of Failed Farm and Food Policies and SOLUTIONS E 25 | The Government MechanicEpisode 25 summarizes problems and solutions for farming, ranching, fishing and

America’s food supply in Episodes 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. The first lesson is that USDA -- the

US Department of Agriculture -- policies are consistently horrible, with destructive

impacts on family-owned farms, ranches, fisheries and their small communities.

For example, the USDA sets the price of milk below what it costs the dairy farmer to

produce that milk. The numbers are clear: In the 1970s, we had 770,000 dairy farms; in

2024 we had 36,184. Our founding fathers were farmers, food producers and food

distributors. Today, corruption and bias toward industrial farming, ranching and fishing

has changed the character of our heartland, of our nation, of America. The US

Department of Agriculture, created by President Abraham Lincoln in 1862. He

considered USDA the People’s Department, that would follow and support the interests

of farmers and farming communities.

The episode started with two clips from Brenda Cochran talking about how farmers are

left out of farm policymaking and how policies favor big corporations, so small farmers,

ranchers and fishers get really hurt. Dr. Kahn reminded listeners and viewers that USDA

sets the price of milk below what costs the farmer to produce that milk, then takes

money out of the famer’s milk check through mandated “check offs” to support research

on non-dairy beverages! The next clip from Marty Irby described the loss of family-

owned ranches leading to the rise of a few, powerful food corporations, which is called

market concentration. The good news is non-profits are learning how to lobby

Congress for change. In the final clip, Niaz Dorry describes bringing the views of hands-

on food producers to the policy and decision-making table and building alliances across

organizations.

Dr. Kahn spent the rest of the episode talking about SOLUIONS and what consumers

can do, such as:

 Don&#39;t take food for granted.

 Buy local, be knowledgeable about local foods.

 Be aware, read labels.

 Find out what is served in schools, go to local school board meetings.

 Be policy aware.

 Make your voice count: Know who your state and Washington DC

representatives are. Go see them, call congress, send letters, call the White

House 202-224-3121, send emails.

 Systems change needed – should we re-institute parity laws? How do we invite

small farmers, ranchers and fishers at legislative and administrative law level?

How do USDA and Land Grant Universities stop defining success only as

economies of scale.

]]>Episode 25 summarizes problems and solutions for farming, ranching, fishing and

America’s food supply in Episodes 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. The first lesson is that USDA -- the

US Department of Agriculture -- policies are consistently horrible, with destructive

impacts on family-owned farms, ranches, fisheries and their small communities.

For example, the USDA sets the price of milk below what it costs the dairy farmer to

produce that milk. The numbers are clear: In the 1970s, we had 770,000 dairy farms; in

2024 we had 36,184. Our founding fathers were farmers, food producers and food

distributors. Today, corruption and bias toward industrial farming, ranching and fishing

has changed the character of our heartland, of our nation, of America. The US

Department of Agriculture, created by President Abraham Lincoln in 1862. He

considered USDA the People’s Department, that would follow and support the interests

of farmers and farming communities.

The episode started with two clips from Brenda Cochran talking about how farmers are

left out of farm policymaking and how policies favor big corporations, so small farmers,

ranchers and fishers get really hurt. Dr. Kahn reminded listeners and viewers that USDA

sets the price of milk below what costs the farmer to produce that milk, then takes

money out of the famer’s milk check through mandated “check offs” to support research

on non-dairy beverages! The next clip from Marty Irby described the loss of family-

owned ranches leading to the rise of a few, powerful food corporations, which is called

market concentration. The good news is non-profits are learning how to lobby

Congress for change. In the final clip, Niaz Dorry describes bringing the views of hands-

on food producers to the policy and decision-making table and building alliances across

organizations.

Dr. Kahn spent the rest of the episode talking about SOLUIONS and what consumers

can do, such as:

 Don&#39;t take food for granted.

 Buy local, be knowledgeable about local foods.

 Be aware, read labels.

 Find out what is served in schools, go to local school board meetings.

 Be policy aware.

 Make your voice count: Know who your state and Washington DC

representatives are. Go see them, call congress, send letters, call the White

House 202-224-3121, send emails.

 Systems change needed – should we re-institute parity laws? How do we invite

small farmers, ranchers and fishers at legislative and administrative law level?

How do USDA and Land Grant Universities stop defining success only as

economies of scale.

]]>93e58566-0d83-4ee8-be7b-2756accd3b4aThu, 13 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -040010:02falsefull3263263Dr. Lynn S. KahnEpisode 24 Summary: America’s forgotten children | The Government MechanicEpisode 24 Summary: America’s forgotten children | The Government MechanicEpisode 24 summarizes the 7 episodes posted about America&#39;s children lost in foster

care and through family court. I warn you, my listeners and viewers, this is

heartbreaking stuff. Please find your support network if you are triggered by these clips.

Start with the list of resources below.

Dr. Kahn showed some clips from these episodes:


 Episode 17 spotlights Rachel Bruno, who had her own children taken in 2015, then

sued Los Angeles County and the State of California. She won. She has the lived

experience and after 10 years the perspective to shed light on the abuses of

America’s child welfare system. She emphasizes the financial incentives for states to

remove children from homes: states get $2000 – $8000 per month, more for special

needs children, to place a child in foster care. LA County receives about $2B per

year from federal funding. Money only kicks in when a child is removed.


 Episode 18 features Baily Templeton, mother and advocate for family rights and

child welfare reform, whose child with cancer was taken from her and treated without

her knowledge or consent. Her son was returned after they had amputated the

bottom part of his leg. Bailey argues for parents to be in charge of their children’s

medical, educational and religious decisions. She supports the legislation calling for

Parent Advocates in family courtrooms. She questions the role of the Guardian

Administrator in each state, that makes medical decisions for children in foster care.


 In Episode 19, Terri LaPoint describes patterns of Medical Kidnapping, where

children are taken from their parents, sometimes babies taken from their mother’s

arms, placed in foster care. Then as wards of the state, these babies and children

are vaccinated and enrolled in medical tests without parents’ knowledge or consent.


 Episode 20 features Connie Reguli, a family rights lawyer, who describes the

policies and laws that allow 350,000 children to be taken from their families every

year. And 87% are not taken for abuse, they are taken for neglect, mostly related to

poverty. The outcomes for foster care children are dreadful on many measures. Over

the past ten years, about 3.5 million children and their families have been

traumatized by the US government. Yet billions of dollars flow from the federal

government to the states to remove children from their homes. Directly helping

families in crisis is not allowed – only taking children from homes.


 E 21 and 22: Under the Hood Part 1 and 2. Rachel Bruno, Bailey Templeton,

Connie Reguli, Kathleen Monahan and Dr. Kahn talked about the agencies

responsible for family policy, foster care, and family court. One observation was that

the primary agency, the Administration for Children and Families, ACF, somewhat

recognizes the importance of family support and reunification, though clearly not

enough. To her surprise, Dr. Kahn concluded that truly helping families in crisis

means first of all changing the legislation that delivers tens of billions of dollars to

states for removing children from their homes.


 In Episode 23, David Shubert describes parental alienation, in his case starting with

his spouse kidnapping his children, taking them to another country, and lying to the

children to alienate them from the other parent.


RESOURCES

Connie Reguli

Facebook Group Family Forward Project 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1697223540511940

YouTube channel - Connie Reguli

https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94

YouTube - Family Forward Training and...]]>Episode 24 summarizes the 7 episodes posted about America&#39;s children lost in foster

care and through family court. I warn you, my listeners and viewers, this is

heartbreaking stuff. Please find your support network if you are triggered by these clips.

Start with the list of resources below.

Dr. Kahn showed some clips from these episodes:


 Episode 17 spotlights Rachel Bruno, who had her own children taken in 2015, then

sued Los Angeles County and the State of California. She won. She has the lived

experience and after 10 years the perspective to shed light on the abuses of

America’s child welfare system. She emphasizes the financial incentives for states to

remove children from homes: states get $2000 – $8000 per month, more for special

needs children, to place a child in foster care. LA County receives about $2B per

year from federal funding. Money only kicks in when a child is removed.


 Episode 18 features Baily Templeton, mother and advocate for family rights and

child welfare reform, whose child with cancer was taken from her and treated without

her knowledge or consent. Her son was returned after they had amputated the

bottom part of his leg. Bailey argues for parents to be in charge of their children’s

medical, educational and religious decisions. She supports the legislation calling for

Parent Advocates in family courtrooms. She questions the role of the Guardian

Administrator in each state, that makes medical decisions for children in foster care.


 In Episode 19, Terri LaPoint describes patterns of Medical Kidnapping, where

children are taken from their parents, sometimes babies taken from their mother’s

arms, placed in foster care. Then as wards of the state, these babies and children

are vaccinated and enrolled in medical tests without parents’ knowledge or consent.


 Episode 20 features Connie Reguli, a family rights lawyer, who describes the

policies and laws that allow 350,000 children to be taken from their families every

year. And 87% are not taken for abuse, they are taken for neglect, mostly related to

poverty. The outcomes for foster care children are dreadful on many measures. Over

the past ten years, about 3.5 million children and their families have been

traumatized by the US government. Yet billions of dollars flow from the federal

government to the states to remove children from their homes. Directly helping

families in crisis is not allowed – only taking children from homes.


 E 21 and 22: Under the Hood Part 1 and 2. Rachel Bruno, Bailey Templeton,

Connie Reguli, Kathleen Monahan and Dr. Kahn talked about the agencies

responsible for family policy, foster care, and family court. One observation was that

the primary agency, the Administration for Children and Families, ACF, somewhat

recognizes the importance of family support and reunification, though clearly not

enough. To her surprise, Dr. Kahn concluded that truly helping families in crisis

means first of all changing the legislation that delivers tens of billions of dollars to

states for removing children from their homes.


 In Episode 23, David Shubert describes parental alienation, in his case starting with

his spouse kidnapping his children, taking them to another country, and lying to the

children to alienate them from the other parent.


RESOURCES

Connie Reguli

Facebook Group Family Forward Project 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1697223540511940

YouTube channel - Connie Reguli

https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94

YouTube - Family Forward Training and News

https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/conniereguli/

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/connie-reguli/

X https://x.com/conniereguli

TikTok  https://www.tiktok.com/@familyforward

Rachel Bruno

Website, blog and book: https://rachelbruno.com

Non-profit: https://thegiveroflight.org

Facebook and Instagram: @rachelbrunospeaks

Terri LaPoint

Website: https://realnewsspark.com.

Facebook: @TerriLaPoint

Book: Voices That Will Not Be Silenced - Amazon or realnewsspark.com for

autographed copy

David Shubert

YouTube Channel - A Parenting Affair

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ5-3o9GJi-4AVdBt34D7PA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/parentalalienationactivist/

Dr. Lynn S Kahn

YouTube Channel: The Government Mechanic

Podcast: The Government Mechanic, wherever you get your podcasts

Website: http://GovMechanic.com

Articles: https://govmechanic.com/category/articles/

LinkedIn: Lynn Sandra Kahn

]]>1bd748d6-f035-4d1c-82e9-37accede028eTue, 11 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -040012:14falsefull3243243Dr. Lynn S. KahnParental AlienationParental AlienationDavid R. Shubert

Author, Speaker, and Family Rights Advocate



Shubert’s work stems from his own painful experience of international parental abduction, parental alienation and struggles through family courts. He authored Parental Alienation Unmasked, a guide to the emotional aspects of parental alienation and navigating the legal system; Stolen Memories, about his journey after the international parental abduction of his own children; and Parental Alienation is Abuse! which raises awareness of a failed family court system. Shubert wants people to know that they are not alone. His works can be found on LInkedIn, Amazon, and his YouTube channel — A Parenting Affair.




More Information: Shubert




LinkedIn


https://www.linkedin.com/in/parentalalienationactivist/



YouTube


A Parenting Affair


https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ5-3o9GJi-4AVdBt34D7PA



Books


Parental Alienation: Unmasked


Stolen Memories


Parental Alienation is Abuse!


https://www.amazon.com/stores/David-Shubert/author/B07396S57Q?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

]]>David R. Shubert

Author, Speaker, and Family Rights Advocate



Shubert’s work stems from his own painful experience of international parental abduction, parental alienation and struggles through family courts. He authored Parental Alienation Unmasked, a guide to the emotional aspects of parental alienation and navigating the legal system; Stolen Memories, about his journey after the international parental abduction of his own children; and Parental Alienation is Abuse! which raises awareness of a failed family court system. Shubert wants people to know that they are not alone. His works can be found on LInkedIn, Amazon, and his YouTube channel — A Parenting Affair.




More Information: Shubert




LinkedIn


https://www.linkedin.com/in/parentalalienationactivist/



YouTube


A Parenting Affair


https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ5-3o9GJi-4AVdBt34D7PA



Books


Parental Alienation: Unmasked


Stolen Memories


Parental Alienation is Abuse!


https://www.amazon.com/stores/David-Shubert/author/B07396S57Q?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

]]>31af26ca-a409-4376-86c5-bdc590ce0d47Tue, 25 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -040020:29falsefull3233233Dr. Lynn S. KahnThe Lies behind Child Protective Services, Part 2 | The Government MechanicThe Lies behind Child Protective Services, Part 2 | The Government MechanicThe episodes bring back guests Connie Reguli, lawyer and child welfare reform advocate; Rachel Bruno and Bailey Templeton, parents whose children were taken by child protective services and returned many months later; Terri LaPoint, investigative journalist researching medical kidnapping for 15 years; and Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn, organizational psychologist and YouTube and podcast host.

More Information: Kahn

Website: https://govmechanic.com/

More Information: Reguli

YouTube channel - Connie Reguli


https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94


YouTube - Family Forward Training and News


https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94


Facebook group Family Forward Project


https://www.facebook.com/groups/1697223540511940


Facebook personal profile https://www.facebook.com/connie.reguli


TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@familyforward


Instagram https://www.instagram.com/conniereguli/


LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/connie-reguli/


X https://x.com/conniereguli




More Information: LaPoint


Website: https://realnewsspark.com.


Facebook @TerriLaPoint


Book: Voices that will Not be Silenced


https://Realnewsspark.com /book


Order from amazon or from realnewsspark.com for autographed copy

]]>The episodes bring back guests Connie Reguli, lawyer and child welfare reform advocate; Rachel Bruno and Bailey Templeton, parents whose children were taken by child protective services and returned many months later; Terri LaPoint, investigative journalist researching medical kidnapping for 15 years; and Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn, organizational psychologist and YouTube and podcast host.

More Information: Kahn

Website: https://govmechanic.com/

More Information: Reguli

YouTube channel - Connie Reguli


https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94


YouTube - Family Forward Training and News


https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94


Facebook group Family Forward Project


https://www.facebook.com/groups/1697223540511940


Facebook personal profile https://www.facebook.com/connie.reguli


TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@familyforward


Instagram https://www.instagram.com/conniereguli/


LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/connie-reguli/


X https://x.com/conniereguli




More Information: LaPoint


Website: https://realnewsspark.com.


Facebook @TerriLaPoint


Book: Voices that will Not be Silenced


https://Realnewsspark.com /book


Order from amazon or from realnewsspark.com for autographed copy

]]>f6c8c187-8313-412d-93b5-2816ae2856f3Fri, 21 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -040020:58falsefull3223223Dr. Lynn S. KahnThe Lies behind Child Protective Services, Part 1The Lies behind Child Protective Services, Part 1The episodes bring back guests Connie Reguli, lawyer and child welfare reform advocate; Rachel Bruno and Bailey Templeton, parents whose children were taken by child protective services and returned many months later; Terri LaPoint, investigative journalist researching medical kidnapping for 15 years; and Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn, organizational psychologist and YouTube and podcast host.

More Information: Kahn

Website: https://govmechanic.com/


More Information: Reguli

YouTube channel - Connie Reguli


https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94


YouTube - Family Forward Training and News


https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94


Facebook group Family Forward Project


https://www.facebook.com/groups/1697223540511940


Facebook personal profile https://www.facebook.com/connie.reguli


TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@familyforward


Instagram https://www.instagram.com/conniereguli/


LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/connie-reguli/


X https://x.com/conniereguli




More Information: LaPoint


Website: https://realnewsspark.com.


Facebook @TerriLaPoint


Book: Voices that will Not be Silenced


https://Realnewsspark.com /book


Order from amazon or from realnewsspark.com for autographed copy

]]>The episodes bring back guests Connie Reguli, lawyer and child welfare reform advocate; Rachel Bruno and Bailey Templeton, parents whose children were taken by child protective services and returned many months later; Terri LaPoint, investigative journalist researching medical kidnapping for 15 years; and Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn, organizational psychologist and YouTube and podcast host.

More Information: Kahn

Website: https://govmechanic.com/


More Information: Reguli

YouTube channel - Connie Reguli


https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94


YouTube - Family Forward Training and News


https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94


Facebook group Family Forward Project


https://www.facebook.com/groups/1697223540511940


Facebook personal profile https://www.facebook.com/connie.reguli


TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@familyforward


Instagram https://www.instagram.com/conniereguli/


LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/connie-reguli/


X https://x.com/conniereguli




More Information: LaPoint


Website: https://realnewsspark.com.


Facebook @TerriLaPoint


Book: Voices that will Not be Silenced


https://Realnewsspark.com /book


Order from amazon or from realnewsspark.com for autographed copy

]]>8458a56d-68ff-481d-98d2-b61bf76ef253Tue, 18 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -040023:22falsefull3213213Dr. Lynn S. KahnAmerica’s Forgotten Children: Lost in Foster CareAmerica’s Forgotten Children: Lost in Foster CareOn Season 3 Episode 20, Dr. Kahn’s special guest is Connie Reguli -- a family lawyer and advocate for child welfare reform who has spent 30 years defending families in our family court systems. More than that, Reguli has built a support network for parents threatened by child protective services and brought together resources, guidelines and training videos for parents who suddenly find themselves in family court. See links below in Show Notes.



Episode 20 opens with Dr. Kahn describing a photo of her and Reguli in Des Moines at the Iowa State Capitol on October 20, 2017, talking almost 8 years ago about these very same issues. Dr. Kahn asked what motivated Reguli to turn her attention to the broken child welfare system, especially foster care. Conversation then turned to foster care as a for-profit industry and a US Marshall’s report that 33,000 children go missing from foster care every year. The conversation concluded with comments about lobbying for change in Washington DC and current legislation that would help parents keep their kids out of foster care.



For more information, see:


YouTube channel - Connie Reguli


https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94


YouTube - Family Forward Training and News


https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94


TikTok


https://www.tiktok.com/@familyforward


Instagram


https://www.instagram.com/conniereguli/


Facebook personal profile


https://www.facebook.com/connie.reguli


Facebook group Family Forward Project


https://www.facebook.com/groups/1697223540511940


LinkedIn


https://www.linkedin.com/in/connie-reguli/


X


https://x.com/conniereguli



Pronounces name KAH-nee REG-yuh-lee

]]>On Season 3 Episode 20, Dr. Kahn’s special guest is Connie Reguli -- a family lawyer and advocate for child welfare reform who has spent 30 years defending families in our family court systems. More than that, Reguli has built a support network for parents threatened by child protective services and brought together resources, guidelines and training videos for parents who suddenly find themselves in family court. See links below in Show Notes.



Episode 20 opens with Dr. Kahn describing a photo of her and Reguli in Des Moines at the Iowa State Capitol on October 20, 2017, talking almost 8 years ago about these very same issues. Dr. Kahn asked what motivated Reguli to turn her attention to the broken child welfare system, especially foster care. Conversation then turned to foster care as a for-profit industry and a US Marshall’s report that 33,000 children go missing from foster care every year. The conversation concluded with comments about lobbying for change in Washington DC and current legislation that would help parents keep their kids out of foster care.



For more information, see:


YouTube channel - Connie Reguli


https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94


YouTube - Family Forward Training and News


https://youtube.com/@connieregulifamilyforward?si=39HQPmm4_pN0EC94


TikTok


https://www.tiktok.com/@familyforward


Instagram


https://www.instagram.com/conniereguli/


Facebook personal profile


https://www.facebook.com/connie.reguli


Facebook group Family Forward Project


https://www.facebook.com/groups/1697223540511940


LinkedIn


https://www.linkedin.com/in/connie-reguli/


X


https://x.com/conniereguli



Pronounces name KAH-nee REG-yuh-lee

]]>65429bd1-fe9d-49e5-9449-93446ebe38eeFri, 14 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -040022:59falsefull3203203Dr. Lynn S. KahnMedical Kidnapping with Terri La PointMedical Kidnapping with Terri La PointTerri La Point

Investigative Journalist, Speaker and Author

Episode 19 is the third in a series about the failures of family law, family court and foster care. The topic is medical kidnapping with investigative journalist, speaker and author Terri LaPoint.

 

Terri started investigating the child welfare system by looking at medical kidnapping. She had no bias going in, she just wanted to know what was going on. She found the same kind of stories everywhere - innocent parents losing their kids or going to jail. This included losing custody of ill or hospitalized children. In every children’s hospital, child abuse pediatricians, who are not experts in anything, sign off on the state taking custody of the hospitalized child. Once a ward of the state, pediatricians may use opioids, psychotropic drugs or experimental medicines. Further damage happens to this child, who is now a ward of the state, getting placed in a foster care system with where foster parents are not vetted adequately and there are no national standards. 

David Frodsham in Arizona ran child trafficking out of his home with foster children and children he had adopted out of foster care. 

 https://apnews.com/article/afghanistan-business-arizona-army-sierra-vista-2dd2790f0b68117f561a46a474421358

Terri closed by describing helpful national and state legislation, such as a Texas law that limits child abuse pediatricians and gives parents the right to a second opinion.

 

SHOW NOTES

Website:  https://realnewsspark.com. 

Facebook @TerriLaPoint

Book: Voices that will Not be Silenced

https://Realnewsspark.com /book

Order from amazon or from realnewsspark.com for autographed copy

]]>Terri La Point

Investigative Journalist, Speaker and Author

Episode 19 is the third in a series about the failures of family law, family court and foster care. The topic is medical kidnapping with investigative journalist, speaker and author Terri LaPoint.

 

Terri started investigating the child welfare system by looking at medical kidnapping. She had no bias going in, she just wanted to know what was going on. She found the same kind of stories everywhere - innocent parents losing their kids or going to jail. This included losing custody of ill or hospitalized children. In every children’s hospital, child abuse pediatricians, who are not experts in anything, sign off on the state taking custody of the hospitalized child. Once a ward of the state, pediatricians may use opioids, psychotropic drugs or experimental medicines. Further damage happens to this child, who is now a ward of the state, getting placed in a foster care system with where foster parents are not vetted adequately and there are no national standards. 

David Frodsham in Arizona ran child trafficking out of his home with foster children and children he had adopted out of foster care. 

 https://apnews.com/article/afghanistan-business-arizona-army-sierra-vista-2dd2790f0b68117f561a46a474421358

Terri closed by describing helpful national and state legislation, such as a Texas law that limits child abuse pediatricians and gives parents the right to a second opinion.

 

SHOW NOTES

Website:  https://realnewsspark.com. 

Facebook @TerriLaPoint

Book: Voices that will Not be Silenced

https://Realnewsspark.com /book

Order from amazon or from realnewsspark.com for autographed copy

]]>23f4fbbd-6906-4b11-bc0e-85e5a2e5d06aTue, 11 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -040018:29falsefull3193193Dr. Lynn S. KahnOur Government Took My ChildOur Government Took My ChildThe theme for Episodes 17 to 22 is the failure of the child welfare system in the United States, including the failures of foster care, family law, family court and government policies to take custody of your child. My special guest today for Episode 18 is Baily Templeton -- mother and advocate for family rights and child welfare reform. 

 

ATTENTION: I warn you, my listeners and viewers, this is heartbreaking stuff and yo may be triggered by this conversation. If you are chaught up in the child welfare and family court system, find your support group – you are not alone - the entire child welfare system is broken and abusive. Find your support group, Start Connie Reguli’s Facebook page Family Forward Project and Rachel Bruno’s website rachelbruno.com  

]]>The theme for Episodes 17 to 22 is the failure of the child welfare system in the United States, including the failures of foster care, family law, family court and government policies to take custody of your child. My special guest today for Episode 18 is Baily Templeton -- mother and advocate for family rights and child welfare reform. 

 

ATTENTION: I warn you, my listeners and viewers, this is heartbreaking stuff and yo may be triggered by this conversation. If you are chaught up in the child welfare and family court system, find your support group – you are not alone - the entire child welfare system is broken and abusive. Find your support group, Start Connie Reguli’s Facebook page Family Forward Project and Rachel Bruno’s website rachelbruno.com  

]]>42edd647-91d7-4236-b1ac-6508bdf1fcc9Fri, 07 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -040026:19falsefull3183183Dr. Lynn S. KahnFighting for Parent's Rights with Rachel BrunoFighting for Parent's Rights with Rachel BrunoSeason 3 opens with Episode 17 and Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn introducing Rachel Bruno, a courageous mother, author and advocate for parents falsely accused in the child welfare system. The Episode begins with a warning from Dr. Kahn: this interview may trigger emotions related to foster care and family court or images of violence and children separated from their parents. Viewer discretion advised. Please see resources below.


Rachel tells a powerful story about the abuses and violations of family law, foster care and family court when her son was illegally seized in 2015. She concludes with descriptions of 2025 legislative efforts to support parents caught up in child services and family court.



Resources from Rachel Bruno:


Website with resources, her blog and book: https://rachelbruno.com


Non-profit: https://thegiveroflight.org


Facebook and Instagram: @rachelbrunospeaks



Kahn’s Articles:





More Information:


Podcast: The Government Mechanic, wherever you get your podcasts


Website: http://GovMechanic.com


LinkedIn: Lynn Sandra Kahn


YouTube Channel: The Government Mechanic

]]>Season 3 opens with Episode 17 and Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn introducing Rachel Bruno, a courageous mother, author and advocate for parents falsely accused in the child welfare system. The Episode begins with a warning from Dr. Kahn: this interview may trigger emotions related to foster care and family court or images of violence and children separated from their parents. Viewer discretion advised. Please see resources below.


Rachel tells a powerful story about the abuses and violations of family law, foster care and family court when her son was illegally seized in 2015. She concludes with descriptions of 2025 legislative efforts to support parents caught up in child services and family court.



Resources from Rachel Bruno:


Website with resources, her blog and book: https://rachelbruno.com


Non-profit: https://thegiveroflight.org


Facebook and Instagram: @rachelbrunospeaks



Kahn’s Articles:





More Information:


Podcast: The Government Mechanic, wherever you get your podcasts


Website: http://GovMechanic.com


LinkedIn: Lynn Sandra Kahn


YouTube Channel: The Government Mechanic

]]>6442a6e8-d729-49a0-a24d-dd938f161ba7Tue, 04 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -040023:38falsefull3173173Dr. Lynn S. KahnMaking Government More EfficientMaking Government More EfficientEpisode 16 closes out Season 2. Creator and host Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn and co-host Kathleen Monahan, management consultant and strategic planner, talk about making government more efficient. They start with the graphic labelled Reinventing Government: 1992 to 2000 and then the Reinventing Government: Transformation Roadmap.

The Roadmap is an artist’s drawing of a vision for reinvention, a mission to deliver on the three goals and pathways to rebuild public trust in government (see Episode 14, for reinvention strategic plan and implementation roadmap). Kahn asserts: “We are starting here because we believe in the importance of clearly and visually communicating the essence of government-wide change in policies and organization.”  

The drawing shows the 4 core questions of any transformation: where are we now, where are we going, how will we get there, and what will we measure. Kahn emphasizes “Get a vision statement that is one line, less than a sentence; and a Mission statement describing the true purpose of the agency as one maybe two sentences. It has to fit on a coffee mug!

The graphic includes Goals — what you want to accomplish – and Strategies – the priority actions. Measures are the numbers that tell you whether you accomplished your goals and priorities. What you measure is what you get.

Episode 16 closes out Season 2. Season 3 begins on Tuesday February 4 with a series of 5 episodes on the failures of family law, family court, foster care, medical kidnapping and parental alienation. Episodes 17 to 22 come with a warning: these are heartbreaking stories mostly hidden from view.

]]>Episode 16 closes out Season 2. Creator and host Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn and co-host Kathleen Monahan, management consultant and strategic planner, talk about making government more efficient. They start with the graphic labelled Reinventing Government: 1992 to 2000 and then the Reinventing Government: Transformation Roadmap.

The Roadmap is an artist’s drawing of a vision for reinvention, a mission to deliver on the three goals and pathways to rebuild public trust in government (see Episode 14, for reinvention strategic plan and implementation roadmap). Kahn asserts: “We are starting here because we believe in the importance of clearly and visually communicating the essence of government-wide change in policies and organization.”  

The drawing shows the 4 core questions of any transformation: where are we now, where are we going, how will we get there, and what will we measure. Kahn emphasizes “Get a vision statement that is one line, less than a sentence; and a Mission statement describing the true purpose of the agency as one maybe two sentences. It has to fit on a coffee mug!

The graphic includes Goals — what you want to accomplish – and Strategies – the priority actions. Measures are the numbers that tell you whether you accomplished your goals and priorities. What you measure is what you get.

Episode 16 closes out Season 2. Season 3 begins on Tuesday February 4 with a series of 5 episodes on the failures of family law, family court, foster care, medical kidnapping and parental alienation. Episodes 17 to 22 come with a warning: these are heartbreaking stories mostly hidden from view.

]]>b66d999a-69c7-4f42-be4c-41df40551715Fri, 31 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -040010:53falsefull2162162Dr. Lynn S. KahnUnder the Hood: The Government MechanicUnder the Hood: The Government MechanicIn Episode 15, host Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn and co-host Kathleen Monahan talk about how the podcast and YouTube channel started and how it’s going. Then they discuss the 15 most viewed clips with number of views:

·     Top Challenges for Veterans 10K

·     The truth behind dairy prices 6.4 K

·     Ending Veteran Homelessness 5.2 K

·     Understanding Peacebuilding, Peacemaking and Diplomacy 4.2 K

·     DOJ Policy That Works – Transform DOJ 1.6 K

 

 

·     Peacemaking - Rhythms of Harmony 1.6 K

·     Policy the Reduces Violence 1.4 K

·     Running for President E1 1.3 K

·     A Theory of Peacemaking 1.2 K

·     Patterns of Balance 1K

 

 

·     On the same page 1.4 K

·     Visual Learning and Policy Changes 1.4

·     Town Halls, Citywide Summit, Strategic Plan 1.3

·     Turn Government Waste into Solutions 874

·     Policy that Reduces Violence 744

 

Next is a cluster about how USDA policies hurt farmers; less that 650 each.

]]>In Episode 15, host Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn and co-host Kathleen Monahan talk about how the podcast and YouTube channel started and how it’s going. Then they discuss the 15 most viewed clips with number of views:

·     Top Challenges for Veterans 10K

·     The truth behind dairy prices 6.4 K

·     Ending Veteran Homelessness 5.2 K

·     Understanding Peacebuilding, Peacemaking and Diplomacy 4.2 K

·     DOJ Policy That Works – Transform DOJ 1.6 K

 

 

·     Peacemaking - Rhythms of Harmony 1.6 K

·     Policy the Reduces Violence 1.4 K

·     Running for President E1 1.3 K

·     A Theory of Peacemaking 1.2 K

·     Patterns of Balance 1K

 

 

·     On the same page 1.4 K

·     Visual Learning and Policy Changes 1.4

·     Town Halls, Citywide Summit, Strategic Plan 1.3

·     Turn Government Waste into Solutions 874

·     Policy that Reduces Violence 744

 

Next is a cluster about how USDA policies hurt farmers; less that 650 each.

]]>84cb13bc-aa1e-4fb7-8f16-3d098c2b6f7fTue, 28 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -040008:58falsefull2152152Dr. Lynn S. KahnFor Strategic Planners Only — Kathleen MonahanFor Strategic Planners Only — Kathleen MonahanIn Episode 14, Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn presents nine different strategic plans and implementation roadmaps, and the areas of reinvention, aviation, justice reform, and regional food processing. Dr. Kahn is the host of The Government Mechanic. 

]]>In Episode 14, Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn presents nine different strategic plans and implementation roadmaps, and the areas of reinvention, aviation, justice reform, and regional food processing. Dr. Kahn is the host of The Government Mechanic. 

]]>e0f11d71-c80a-4196-88f4-a852399a5bf0Fri, 17 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -040028:34falsefull2142142Dr. Lynn S. KahnThe 7 Track PlanThe 7 Track PlanEpisode 13, The 7 Track Plan, describes the strategic plan used by Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn and Kathleen Monahan when they ran as independent candidates for President and Vice President of the United States in 2015 and 2016. The 7 tracks are:

1. Cut one trillion dollars of government waste and invest in local communities

2. Multiple solutions 

3. Transforms all federal agencies 

4. Build Partnerships

5, Communicate honestly

6. Measure the truth

7. Build Peace

]]>Episode 13, The 7 Track Plan, describes the strategic plan used by Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn and Kathleen Monahan when they ran as independent candidates for President and Vice President of the United States in 2015 and 2016. The 7 tracks are:

1. Cut one trillion dollars of government waste and invest in local communities

2. Multiple solutions 

3. Transforms all federal agencies 

4. Build Partnerships

5, Communicate honestly

6. Measure the truth

7. Build Peace

]]>299c1f45-9644-4da6-9895-3c8834d2aa21Tue, 14 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -040018:19falsefull2132132Dr. Lynn S. KahnA Theory of PeacemakingA Theory of PeacemakingIn her 1988 book, Peacemaking: A Systems Approach to Conflict Management, Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn talked about the technology, psychology, theory and application of peacemaking skills. Episode, she reviews some key points:  For Technology, she walks listeners through the design of the 1994 Cleveland Summit on Violence. For Psychology, Dr. Kahn describes both individual and group dynamics. While individuals bring their unique history into any group discussion. the dynamic of the group as a system is another level of interactions. Dr. Kahn’s Theory states: people joined together in face-to-face dialogue generate a field of energy with patterns of balance and rhythms of harmony across multiple levels of awareness. For Application, Dr. Kahn returns to the design of the 1994 Cleveland Summit on Violence - theory and psychology are nice, the essential skills set is designing the event and delivering results. 

Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn, organizational psychologist in the federal government for more than 35 years and host of The Government Mechanic. 

Books:

https://www.amazon.com/Peacemaking-Systems-Approach-Conflict-Management/dp/0819167835

]]>In her 1988 book, Peacemaking: A Systems Approach to Conflict Management, Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn talked about the technology, psychology, theory and application of peacemaking skills. Episode, she reviews some key points:  For Technology, she walks listeners through the design of the 1994 Cleveland Summit on Violence. For Psychology, Dr. Kahn describes both individual and group dynamics. While individuals bring their unique history into any group discussion. the dynamic of the group as a system is another level of interactions. Dr. Kahn’s Theory states: people joined together in face-to-face dialogue generate a field of energy with patterns of balance and rhythms of harmony across multiple levels of awareness. For Application, Dr. Kahn returns to the design of the 1994 Cleveland Summit on Violence - theory and psychology are nice, the essential skills set is designing the event and delivering results. 

Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn, organizational psychologist in the federal government for more than 35 years and host of The Government Mechanic. 

Books:

https://www.amazon.com/Peacemaking-Systems-Approach-Conflict-Management/dp/0819167835

]]>d5d03c40-d64f-4471-9603-ee825f4ff133Fri, 10 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -040013:52falsefull2122122Dr. Lynn S. KahnPeacebuilding, Peacemaking and Multi-Track Diplomacy—John McDonaldPeacebuilding, Peacemaking and Multi-Track Diplomacy—John McDonaldYou may wonder how a podcast and YouTube channel called The Government Mechanic arrive at Episodes 11 and 12 to talk about the activities of peacebuilding, the psychology of peacemaking, and international diplomacy among countries and peoples in conflict. The answer is that fixing broken Departments and Agencies means leaders in these government departments and agencies get out of their offices and out of their comfort zones and go out into the communities and hold Listening tours and townhall meetings and work with community-based people to come up with shared solutions to any number of problems. Once those conversations start to happen, then the activities of fixing government morph into community peace building. The Episode starts with some definitions and Dr. Kahn introduces 3 video clips from an interview with Ambassador John McDonald from 2010!

Definitions: Peacebuilding is active - it’s a ceasefire, or a gang truce, or a summit on violence.  Peacemaking is internal, it’s psychological, it’s a change of heart, seeing something from another’s view. Diplomacy is another level; diplomacy is international and between cultures and countries. The US Department of State now accepts as true that diplomacy occurs along many different tracks not just government to government.  Diplomacy can happen sports team to sports team or business leaders to government leaders. 

Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn, organizational psychologist in the federal government for more than 35 years and host of The Government Mechanic.

]]>You may wonder how a podcast and YouTube channel called The Government Mechanic arrive at Episodes 11 and 12 to talk about the activities of peacebuilding, the psychology of peacemaking, and international diplomacy among countries and peoples in conflict. The answer is that fixing broken Departments and Agencies means leaders in these government departments and agencies get out of their offices and out of their comfort zones and go out into the communities and hold Listening tours and townhall meetings and work with community-based people to come up with shared solutions to any number of problems. Once those conversations start to happen, then the activities of fixing government morph into community peace building. The Episode starts with some definitions and Dr. Kahn introduces 3 video clips from an interview with Ambassador John McDonald from 2010!

Definitions: Peacebuilding is active - it’s a ceasefire, or a gang truce, or a summit on violence.  Peacemaking is internal, it’s psychological, it’s a change of heart, seeing something from another’s view. Diplomacy is another level; diplomacy is international and between cultures and countries. The US Department of State now accepts as true that diplomacy occurs along many different tracks not just government to government.  Diplomacy can happen sports team to sports team or business leaders to government leaders. 

Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn, organizational psychologist in the federal government for more than 35 years and host of The Government Mechanic.

]]>984f57b0-9f2f-47c6-bbd6-1bdf6409cb84Tue, 07 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -040018:32falsefull2112112Dr. Lynn S. KahnUnder the Hood: The US Department of Veterans Affairs (The VA)—Kathleen Monahan and Steve SansonUnder the Hood: The US Department of Veterans Affairs (The VA)—Kathleen Monahan and Steve SansonEpisode 10 looks under the hood at the US Department of Veterans Affairs with Steve Sanson, Co-founder and President of Veterans in Politics International; Kathleen Monahan, an organizational consultant with 40 years of federal government experience and volunteer with homeless vets; and Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn, organizational psychologist in the federal government for more than 35 years and host of The Government Mechanic. The conversation begins with a discussion of the new VA mission adopted in 2023. Since 1865 the VA mission has been to “to care for he who has borne the battle, his widow and his orphan.” The new mission seeks to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers and survivors. Sanson describes some excellent VA experiences and also calls on military men and women to gather updated medical records before leaving the military to expedite VA benefits. “Be an advocate for yourself” says Sanson. 

VA Strategic Plan: https://department.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/va-strategic-plan-2022-2028.pdf

Website: https://veteransinpolitics.org

YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/c/stevewsanson/videos

]]>Episode 10 looks under the hood at the US Department of Veterans Affairs with Steve Sanson, Co-founder and President of Veterans in Politics International; Kathleen Monahan, an organizational consultant with 40 years of federal government experience and volunteer with homeless vets; and Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn, organizational psychologist in the federal government for more than 35 years and host of The Government Mechanic. The conversation begins with a discussion of the new VA mission adopted in 2023. Since 1865 the VA mission has been to “to care for he who has borne the battle, his widow and his orphan.” The new mission seeks to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers and survivors. Sanson describes some excellent VA experiences and also calls on military men and women to gather updated medical records before leaving the military to expedite VA benefits. “Be an advocate for yourself” says Sanson. 

VA Strategic Plan: https://department.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/va-strategic-plan-2022-2028.pdf

Website: https://veteransinpolitics.org

YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/c/stevewsanson/videos

]]>77eb9a0c-5ff3-4b97-a0a4-510fc5194e80Fri, 03 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -040022:09falsefull2102102Dr. Lynn S. KahnUnder the Hood: The US Department of Agriculture (The USDA) — Kathleen MonahanUnder the Hood: The US Department of Agriculture (The USDA) — Kathleen MonahanEpisode 9 is the first of our special episodes called “Under the Hood” where we look at the key elements of any organization: mission statement, strategic goals, priority actions, performance metrics and even communication style. In this episode, looking under the hood of the U.S. Department of Agriculture is Brenda Cochran, a dairy farmer for 50 years; Kathleen Monahan, an organizational consultant with 40 years of government experience; and Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn, organizational psychologist in the federal government for more than 35 years and host of The Government Mechanic. The conversation concludes that family farmers are not represented in the USDA strategic plan at all and the plan itself is poorly written. Where, we asked, are the performance measures?

USDA Strategic Plan

https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/usda-fy-2022-2026-strategic-plan.pdf

Website - https://www.farmwomenunited.org

]]>Episode 9 is the first of our special episodes called “Under the Hood” where we look at the key elements of any organization: mission statement, strategic goals, priority actions, performance metrics and even communication style. In this episode, looking under the hood of the U.S. Department of Agriculture is Brenda Cochran, a dairy farmer for 50 years; Kathleen Monahan, an organizational consultant with 40 years of government experience; and Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn, organizational psychologist in the federal government for more than 35 years and host of The Government Mechanic. The conversation concludes that family farmers are not represented in the USDA strategic plan at all and the plan itself is poorly written. Where, we asked, are the performance measures?

USDA Strategic Plan

https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/usda-fy-2022-2026-strategic-plan.pdf

Website - https://www.farmwomenunited.org

]]>269dd400-a06f-4d2f-b41a-e3dfc333ae94Tue, 31 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -040022:40falsefull29292Dr. Lynn S. KahnFishing, Farming, Ranching & Our Food Supply — Niaz DorryFishing, Farming, Ranching & Our Food Supply — Niaz DorryEpisode 8 focuses on small-scale fisheries and reveals similarities with family farming and traditional ranching. Our special guest is Niaz Dorry and we talk about fishing, farming, ranching and America’s food supply system. Niaz Dorry has been a community organizer for over 35 years. Now she is both the Director of the North American Marine Alliance (NAMA) and the Director of the National Family Farm Coalition (NFFC). These two organizations together are the largest voice for grassroots communities of fishermen, farmers and ranchers -- what they call the first set of hands that touch our food.  The two organizations began a shared-leadership model in 2018, cementing the connections between land and sea, between a land-based food system and a sea-based food system. The episode starts with Dorry describing 2024 life for America’s fishers and family-owned, small-scaled fisheries. Then Dr. Kahn asks about NAMA’s article that begins: “In a big win for oceans, a federal court struck down the decisions of the US Army Corps of Engineers that approved permits for industrial fish farming in federal waters.” The episode concludes with Dorry’s conclusions about what people can do differently tomorrow to support our family fishers, farmers and ranchers.

For more information: 

North American Marine Alliance (NAMA) https://www.namanet.org

National Family Farm Coalition (NFFC) https://www.nffc.net

 

]]>Episode 8 focuses on small-scale fisheries and reveals similarities with family farming and traditional ranching. Our special guest is Niaz Dorry and we talk about fishing, farming, ranching and America’s food supply system. Niaz Dorry has been a community organizer for over 35 years. Now she is both the Director of the North American Marine Alliance (NAMA) and the Director of the National Family Farm Coalition (NFFC). These two organizations together are the largest voice for grassroots communities of fishermen, farmers and ranchers -- what they call the first set of hands that touch our food.  The two organizations began a shared-leadership model in 2018, cementing the connections between land and sea, between a land-based food system and a sea-based food system. The episode starts with Dorry describing 2024 life for America’s fishers and family-owned, small-scaled fisheries. Then Dr. Kahn asks about NAMA’s article that begins: “In a big win for oceans, a federal court struck down the decisions of the US Army Corps of Engineers that approved permits for industrial fish farming in federal waters.” The episode concludes with Dorry’s conclusions about what people can do differently tomorrow to support our family fishers, farmers and ranchers.

For more information: 

North American Marine Alliance (NAMA) https://www.namanet.org

National Family Farm Coalition (NFFC) https://www.nffc.net

 

]]>bdff44b9-756d-4108-a5da-9e630fd70856Fri, 27 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -040024:56falsefull28282Dr. Lynn S. KahnCattle Ranching, Market Concentration and Wild Horses — Marty IrbyCattle Ranching, Market Concentration and Wild Horses — Marty IrbyEpisode 7 could also be titled Do You Know Where Your Hamburger Comes From? This is the third of five episodes about our food supply system here in America. The   accomplished and surprisingly talented guest is Marty Irby, the director of the Organization for Competitive Markets based in Lincoln Nebraska, though he works and lives in Washington, D.C. Marty Irby was born in southern Alabama and grew up on a farm with horses, cattle and other animals. Flash forward to 2024, Marty is a lobbyist in Washington DC, demanding our elected officials do the right thing. For example, he helped pass 42 different federal and state laws, including the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act and the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act. Before two wonky questions – about corporate food monopolies and government agriculture agencies – Dr. Kahn asked about Irby’s 2021 film showing American wild horses being eradicated from federal lands! Then they discussed concentration in the food industry and how that impacts choices for the average consumer, and the roles of the US Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration. Irby closed with some advice for grassroots organizations who want to lobby Congress for changes to specific legislation and then how consumers and shoppers can help farmers and ranchers.

 

For more information:

Website https://martyirby.squarespace.com

]]>Episode 7 could also be titled Do You Know Where Your Hamburger Comes From? This is the third of five episodes about our food supply system here in America. The   accomplished and surprisingly talented guest is Marty Irby, the director of the Organization for Competitive Markets based in Lincoln Nebraska, though he works and lives in Washington, D.C. Marty Irby was born in southern Alabama and grew up on a farm with horses, cattle and other animals. Flash forward to 2024, Marty is a lobbyist in Washington DC, demanding our elected officials do the right thing. For example, he helped pass 42 different federal and state laws, including the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act and the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act. Before two wonky questions – about corporate food monopolies and government agriculture agencies – Dr. Kahn asked about Irby’s 2021 film showing American wild horses being eradicated from federal lands! Then they discussed concentration in the food industry and how that impacts choices for the average consumer, and the roles of the US Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration. Irby closed with some advice for grassroots organizations who want to lobby Congress for changes to specific legislation and then how consumers and shoppers can help farmers and ranchers.

 

For more information:

Website https://martyirby.squarespace.com

]]>8d6c1b7f-3daf-4062-8d01-be7402b9e7f9Tue, 24 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -040015:17falsefull27272Dr. Lynn S. KahnFarm Policy and 97Milk.com — Sherry BuntingFarm Policy and 97Milk.com — Sherry BuntingEpisode 6 is the second of five episodes about America’s food supply system. The special guest is Sherry Bunting, investigative reporter extraordinaire, an independent agriculture journalist since 1981. She was born and raised in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where she now lives and works. She has worked on dairy farms, milking and feeding cows, sometimes as a relief milker called in at the last minute. Now, she is a farm and food policy expert, publishing weekly in the Farmshine newsletter. The conversation started with questioning why it is illegal to serve whole milk in our public schools in America. Yes, it’s illegal to serve healthy, fresh, nutrient-dense, good tasting whole milk in public schools. Then Bunting described the progress of the grassroots effort generally called 97milk.com to bring whole milk back into schools. Finally, Dr. Kahn asked about the hurricane damage in North Carolina and the farmer-to-farmer network of volunteers, donations and hay drives. Bunting closes by noting the connections between farming, food and national security, then talked about how consumers and shoppers can help farmers.

For more information:

Website: Farmshine.net

Blog: https://agmoos.com

]]>Episode 6 is the second of five episodes about America’s food supply system. The special guest is Sherry Bunting, investigative reporter extraordinaire, an independent agriculture journalist since 1981. She was born and raised in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where she now lives and works. She has worked on dairy farms, milking and feeding cows, sometimes as a relief milker called in at the last minute. Now, she is a farm and food policy expert, publishing weekly in the Farmshine newsletter. The conversation started with questioning why it is illegal to serve whole milk in our public schools in America. Yes, it’s illegal to serve healthy, fresh, nutrient-dense, good tasting whole milk in public schools. Then Bunting described the progress of the grassroots effort generally called 97milk.com to bring whole milk back into schools. Finally, Dr. Kahn asked about the hurricane damage in North Carolina and the farmer-to-farmer network of volunteers, donations and hay drives. Bunting closes by noting the connections between farming, food and national security, then talked about how consumers and shoppers can help farmers.

For more information:

Website: Farmshine.net

Blog: https://agmoos.com

]]>2b0ee9d7-9324-41fb-a06c-370a0777557cFri, 20 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -040022:35falsefull26262Dr. Lynn S. KahnSaving Family Owned Dairy Farms - Brenda CochranSaving Family Owned Dairy Farms - Brenda CochranEpisodes 5 through 8 are all about farming, ranching, fishing, and our food supply system here in America. The special and outspoken guest on Episode 5 is Brenda Cochran, co-founder of Farm Women United. Cochran has been a dairy farmer for nearly fifty years; her husband was born and raised on a dairy farm; and they are now farming in Pennsylvania. Together they raised and homeschooled 14 children. Cochran has a lot to say about the struggles of dairy farmers, the destructive policies of the US Department of Agriculture, and the future of our food supply here in the United States. 

The discussion is wide-ranging and deeply emotional as Cochran details how USDA policies have made it impossible for farmers to cover their costs of producing the food that America needs. 

For more information:

Website - https://www.farmwomenunited.org

]]>Episodes 5 through 8 are all about farming, ranching, fishing, and our food supply system here in America. The special and outspoken guest on Episode 5 is Brenda Cochran, co-founder of Farm Women United. Cochran has been a dairy farmer for nearly fifty years; her husband was born and raised on a dairy farm; and they are now farming in Pennsylvania. Together they raised and homeschooled 14 children. Cochran has a lot to say about the struggles of dairy farmers, the destructive policies of the US Department of Agriculture, and the future of our food supply here in the United States. 

The discussion is wide-ranging and deeply emotional as Cochran details how USDA policies have made it impossible for farmers to cover their costs of producing the food that America needs. 

For more information:

Website - https://www.farmwomenunited.org

]]>d964a77e-bfa0-49a9-9618-26744b0bce06Tue, 17 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -040023:12falsefull25252Dr. Lynn S. KahnEducating Candidates about Veterans Issues – Steve SansonEducating Candidates about Veterans Issues – Steve SansonEpisode 4 brings back Steve W. Sanson, co-founder and president of Veterans in Politics International. Steve served in the United States Marine Corps from 1985 to 1991 and in the United States Army from 1992 to 1998. He was deployed to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. He has advocated for veterans for almost 25 years, testifying in front of the Nevada state legislature on issues from veterans’ cemeteries, to keeping nuclear waste out of Nevada, to printing the word veteran on Nevada driver’s licenses, and fighting to change police policies when dealing with veterans who might have PTSD.

In Episode 4, Sanson describes the efforts of Veterans in Politics International to educate political candidates on veterans’ issues, which is how he and Dr. Kahn met in 2016. Veterans in Politics International is a non-partisan group that invites all political candidates running in the State of Nevada to participate in interviews and discussions, all open to the public. The veterans that attend are outspoken about their needs. Candidates listen and then have an opportunity to speak.

Sanson has written two books:

How to Collect on Your Bad Debt Accounts in Clark County Nevada (2005) available on Amazon

How to Navigate Nevada’s Family Court System (2024) available on Kindle on Amazon

 

For more information:

Website: https://veteransinpolitics.org

YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/c/stevewsanson/videos

]]>Episode 4 brings back Steve W. Sanson, co-founder and president of Veterans in Politics International. Steve served in the United States Marine Corps from 1985 to 1991 and in the United States Army from 1992 to 1998. He was deployed to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. He has advocated for veterans for almost 25 years, testifying in front of the Nevada state legislature on issues from veterans’ cemeteries, to keeping nuclear waste out of Nevada, to printing the word veteran on Nevada driver’s licenses, and fighting to change police policies when dealing with veterans who might have PTSD.

In Episode 4, Sanson describes the efforts of Veterans in Politics International to educate political candidates on veterans’ issues, which is how he and Dr. Kahn met in 2016. Veterans in Politics International is a non-partisan group that invites all political candidates running in the State of Nevada to participate in interviews and discussions, all open to the public. The veterans that attend are outspoken about their needs. Candidates listen and then have an opportunity to speak.

Sanson has written two books:

How to Collect on Your Bad Debt Accounts in Clark County Nevada (2005) available on Amazon

How to Navigate Nevada’s Family Court System (2024) available on Kindle on Amazon

 

For more information:

Website: https://veteransinpolitics.org

YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/c/stevewsanson/videos

]]>45e742a1-f8d8-45ad-a8c6-081a611e3594Fri, 13 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -040012:48falsefull24242Dr. Lynn S. KahnVeterans Issues and Veterans CourtVeterans Issues and Veterans CourtEpisodes 3 and 4 feature Steve W. Sanson, president of Veterans in Politics International. Steve served in the United States Marine Corps from 1985 to 1991 and in the United States Army from 1992 to 1998. He was deployed to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. He has advocated for veterans for almost 25 years, testifying in front of the Nevada state legislature on issues including veterans’ cemeteries, keeping nuclear waste out of Nevada, printing the word Veteran on Nevada driver’s licenses, and fighting to change police policies when dealing with veterans who might have PTSD.

In Episode 3, Sanson describes challenges faced by veterans, especially those serving after 9/11. The episode then focuses on Sanson’s 20-year effort to establish Veterans Courts in Clark County, then throughout Nevada and now beyond. Veterans Court gives veterans a chance for treatment instead of incarceration, especially those with post-traumatic stress disorder. The treatment program is 18-months long and usually overseen by local judges.

Sanson has written two books:

How to Collect on Your Bad Debt Accounts in Clark County Nevada (2005) available on Amazon

How to Navigate Nevada’s Family Court System (2024) available on Kindle on Amazon

For more information:

Website: https://veteransinpolitics.org

YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/c/stevewsanson/videos

]]>Episodes 3 and 4 feature Steve W. Sanson, president of Veterans in Politics International. Steve served in the United States Marine Corps from 1985 to 1991 and in the United States Army from 1992 to 1998. He was deployed to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. He has advocated for veterans for almost 25 years, testifying in front of the Nevada state legislature on issues including veterans’ cemeteries, keeping nuclear waste out of Nevada, printing the word Veteran on Nevada driver’s licenses, and fighting to change police policies when dealing with veterans who might have PTSD.

In Episode 3, Sanson describes challenges faced by veterans, especially those serving after 9/11. The episode then focuses on Sanson’s 20-year effort to establish Veterans Courts in Clark County, then throughout Nevada and now beyond. Veterans Court gives veterans a chance for treatment instead of incarceration, especially those with post-traumatic stress disorder. The treatment program is 18-months long and usually overseen by local judges.

Sanson has written two books:

How to Collect on Your Bad Debt Accounts in Clark County Nevada (2005) available on Amazon

How to Navigate Nevada’s Family Court System (2024) available on Kindle on Amazon

For more information:

Website: https://veteransinpolitics.org

YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/c/stevewsanson/videos

]]>968580b1-f805-49a5-bb9f-c77a0e167ff8Tue, 10 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -040018:56falsefull23232Dr. Lynn S. KahnA Brief History of Government Reform – John KamenskyA Brief History of Government Reform – John KamenskyJohn Kamensky is the featured guest in Season 2, Episode 2 where he describes government reform efforts over the last 35 years. Kamensky is currently a visiting lecturer in the School of Public Policy at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. He is also an emeritus fellow at the IBM Center for the Business of Government, Washington, D.C. and a Senior Fellow at the National Academy of Public Administration. He started working on government reform at the 1974 Texas Constitutional Convention. He served in the Clinton-Gore Administration as a deputy director of the National Partnership for Reinventing Government in the Office of the Vice President, and as a special assistant to the Deputy Director for Management at the U.S. Office of Management and Budget.

Dr. Kahn describes John Kamensky as “very precise, very thoughtful, and committed to creating a government that gets results, measures performance, works in partnerships, and delivers outstanding government services to the American public.”

Their discussion begins with reinventing government and then Kamensky gives his observations about the legacy of reinvention such as agency strategic plans and annual reviews, the Government Performance and Results Act, the structure of the President’s Management Agenda, the idea of customer service, and the importance of cross-agency coordination. Dr. Kahn adds “cross-government coordination is a key issue in all my consulting work including juvenile justice reform. Reinvention called them Senior Policy Groups and that’s what I call them, too.”

Find Kamensky’s weekly summary of government news related to performance and measurement on his LinkedIn profile:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-m-kamensky-9981301/

]]>John Kamensky is the featured guest in Season 2, Episode 2 where he describes government reform efforts over the last 35 years. Kamensky is currently a visiting lecturer in the School of Public Policy at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. He is also an emeritus fellow at the IBM Center for the Business of Government, Washington, D.C. and a Senior Fellow at the National Academy of Public Administration. He started working on government reform at the 1974 Texas Constitutional Convention. He served in the Clinton-Gore Administration as a deputy director of the National Partnership for Reinventing Government in the Office of the Vice President, and as a special assistant to the Deputy Director for Management at the U.S. Office of Management and Budget.

Dr. Kahn describes John Kamensky as “very precise, very thoughtful, and committed to creating a government that gets results, measures performance, works in partnerships, and delivers outstanding government services to the American public.”

Their discussion begins with reinventing government and then Kamensky gives his observations about the legacy of reinvention such as agency strategic plans and annual reviews, the Government Performance and Results Act, the structure of the President’s Management Agenda, the idea of customer service, and the importance of cross-agency coordination. Dr. Kahn adds “cross-government coordination is a key issue in all my consulting work including juvenile justice reform. Reinvention called them Senior Policy Groups and that’s what I call them, too.”

Find Kamensky’s weekly summary of government news related to performance and measurement on his LinkedIn profile:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-m-kamensky-9981301/

]]>5bb798a4-a53d-461f-8d60-2b53715f26f3Fri, 06 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -040021:50falsefull22222Dr. Lynn S. KahnRunning for President 2016 – Dr. Lynn S Kahn, Kathy MonahanRunning for President 2016 – Dr. Lynn S Kahn, Kathy MonahanSeason 2, Episode 1 features Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn and Kathy Monahan talking about their 2016 campaign as independent candidates for President and Vice-President of the United States. Kahn is an organizational psychologist with over 40 years’ experience as a strategic planner specializing in government reinvention and transformation. Monahan is a strategic planner and management consultant also with more than 40 years’ government experience, often focused on performance measurement. Together, they worked inside the federal government at the U.S. Departments of Transportation, Treasury, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Border Patrol, Defense, and the Department of Justice.

Their campaign stretched from coast to coast, along the Great Lakes, through major mountain ranges, the southwest desert, and more. They had a clear platform: Fix Government, Build Peace with a 7 Track Plan to do just that. They listened a lot and found that people wanted to talk, people wanted to be heard. And there were a few Irish bars.

Dr. Kahn’s books are available at Amazon:

Performance Networks: Transforming Governance for the 21st Century (2009)

Results at the Edge: The Ten Rules of Government Reform (2003)

Peacemaking: A Systems Approach to Conflict Management (1988)

 

Kathy Monahan’s books are available online at Books A Million:

The Government Manager’s Guide to Strategic Planning

Balanced Measures for Strategic Planning

]]>Season 2, Episode 1 features Dr. Lynn Sandra Kahn and Kathy Monahan talking about their 2016 campaign as independent candidates for President and Vice-President of the United States. Kahn is an organizational psychologist with over 40 years’ experience as a strategic planner specializing in government reinvention and transformation. Monahan is a strategic planner and management consultant also with more than 40 years’ government experience, often focused on performance measurement. Together, they worked inside the federal government at the U.S. Departments of Transportation, Treasury, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Border Patrol, Defense, and the Department of Justice.

Their campaign stretched from coast to coast, along the Great Lakes, through major mountain ranges, the southwest desert, and more. They had a clear platform: Fix Government, Build Peace with a 7 Track Plan to do just that. They listened a lot and found that people wanted to talk, people wanted to be heard. And there were a few Irish bars.

Dr. Kahn’s books are available at Amazon:

Performance Networks: Transforming Governance for the 21st Century (2009)

Results at the Edge: The Ten Rules of Government Reform (2003)

Peacemaking: A Systems Approach to Conflict Management (1988)

 

Kathy Monahan’s books are available online at Books A Million:

The Government Manager’s Guide to Strategic Planning

Balanced Measures for Strategic Planning

]]>238cc7af-4098-4a7b-9f37-a4686a6f76a1Tue, 03 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -040017:45falsefull21212Dr. Lynn S. KahnThe Government Mechanic | Veteran Suicide - Steve SansonThe Government Mechanic | Veteran Suicide - Steve SansonEpisode 7 - Steve Sanson, Founder of Veterans in Politics International

]]>Episode 7 - Steve Sanson, Founder of Veterans in Politics International

]]>5982c432-e8c7-4969-b056-a0e1debbe55fTue, 26 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -040033:38falsefull17171Dr. Lynn S. KahnThe Government Mechanic | A Case Study in Peacemaking Pt. 2 - Vincent SchiraldiThe Government Mechanic | A Case Study in Peacemaking Pt. 2 - Vincent SchiraldiEpisode 6 - Part 2 of our conversation with Commissioner Vincent Schiraldi.

]]>Episode 6 - Part 2 of our conversation with Commissioner Vincent Schiraldi.

]]>8dc3d90b-16ac-4e25-9ab0-bc72672ff70dTue, 26 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -040015:44falsefull16161Dr. Lynn S. KahnThe Government Mechanic | A Case Study in Peacemaking Pt. 1 - Vincent SchiraldiThe Government Mechanic | A Case Study in Peacemaking Pt. 1 - Vincent SchiraldiEpisode 5 with Commissioner Vincent Schiraldi.

]]>Episode 5 with Commissioner Vincent Schiraldi.

]]>1d99e067-d2ff-4641-8af5-5091d5dcea0eTue, 26 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -040023:05falsefull15151Dr. Lynn S. KahnThe Government Mechanic | Peacemaking and Multi-Track Diplomacy Part 2The Government Mechanic | Peacemaking and Multi-Track Diplomacy Part 2Multi–track diplomacy includes government to government negotiations, as well as all the different ways in which citizens work to solve problems and build peace. Peacebuilding is active behavior, such as agreeing on a cease-fire or even showing up for the conversations. Peacemaking is internal, a change of heart or a new point of view. Fixing government is deeply connected to the activities of peacebuilding and the dynamics of peacemaking.

]]>Multi–track diplomacy includes government to government negotiations, as well as all the different ways in which citizens work to solve problems and build peace. Peacebuilding is active behavior, such as agreeing on a cease-fire or even showing up for the conversations. Peacemaking is internal, a change of heart or a new point of view. Fixing government is deeply connected to the activities of peacebuilding and the dynamics of peacemaking.

]]>8a95d0a5-6603-46e2-ac60-e81a90bfb38fTue, 26 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -040017:18falsefull14141Dr. Lynn S. KahnThe Government Mechanic | Peacemaking and Multi-Track DiplomacyThe Government Mechanic | Peacemaking and Multi-Track DiplomacyMulti–track diplomacy includes government to government negotiations, as well as all the different ways in which citizens work to solve problems and build peace. Peacebuilding is active behavior, such as agreeing on a cease-fire or even showing up for the conversations. Peacemaking is internal, a change of heart or a new point of view. Fixing government is deeply connected to the activities of peacebuilding and the dynamics of peacemaking.

]]>Multi–track diplomacy includes government to government negotiations, as well as all the different ways in which citizens work to solve problems and build peace. Peacebuilding is active behavior, such as agreeing on a cease-fire or even showing up for the conversations. Peacemaking is internal, a change of heart or a new point of view. Fixing government is deeply connected to the activities of peacebuilding and the dynamics of peacemaking.

]]>724a4b74-a4ac-44ef-87d3-e215f8155bc8Tue, 26 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -040042:52falsefull13131Dr. Lynn S. KahnThe Government Mechanic | The PlaybookThe Government Mechanic | The PlaybookEpisode 2: The Playbook, the overall plan, describes how to look at the 7 Layers of Government from different angles so you can see what’s really broken and know what to do.

The 7 Layers of Government

Mission and Vision are the foundation of the agency. Mission is the purpose or prime objective of the agency. Vision is the north star, where the agency is headed. Together they are the engine that drives the agency. In government, the Mission is often distorted and the Vision is usually missing.

Goals are the key objectives that will accomplish the Mission. In 1993, the White House wrote (with help from the Reinventing Government office) and Congress passed GPRA, The Results Act. GPRA requires every federal Department and major agency to publish an annual performance report with mission, goals, strategic activities, budgets and results.

Programs, Policies and People: How is the Agency DIVIDED UP? What are the Offices and Programs? Which office gets what Budget and Staffing? Here’s where government turns into a BUREAUCRACY and writes really bad policy.

Budgets are how government spends taxpayer money. It’s mostly all broken and wasteful.

Measures of Success: Did you do what you said you would do? Is that what the American people want?

Communication and Coordination happens within and across from agencies.

Culture is the sum of an agency‘s beliefs, assumptions and values.

As my guest Kathy Monahan and I discuss in Episode 2: The Playbook, agencies can be broken in many different ways all at the same time.

Transform Government: Five Plans and the Secret Sauce

https://democracychronicles.org/transform-government

]]>Episode 2: The Playbook, the overall plan, describes how to look at the 7 Layers of Government from different angles so you can see what’s really broken and know what to do.

The 7 Layers of Government

Mission and Vision are the foundation of the agency. Mission is the purpose or prime objective of the agency. Vision is the north star, where the agency is headed. Together they are the engine that drives the agency. In government, the Mission is often distorted and the Vision is usually missing.

Goals are the key objectives that will accomplish the Mission. In 1993, the White House wrote (with help from the Reinventing Government office) and Congress passed GPRA, The Results Act. GPRA requires every federal Department and major agency to publish an annual performance report with mission, goals, strategic activities, budgets and results.

Programs, Policies and People: How is the Agency DIVIDED UP? What are the Offices and Programs? Which office gets what Budget and Staffing? Here’s where government turns into a BUREAUCRACY and writes really bad policy.

Budgets are how government spends taxpayer money. It’s mostly all broken and wasteful.

Measures of Success: Did you do what you said you would do? Is that what the American people want?

Communication and Coordination happens within and across from agencies.

Culture is the sum of an agency‘s beliefs, assumptions and values.

As my guest Kathy Monahan and I discuss in Episode 2: The Playbook, agencies can be broken in many different ways all at the same time.

Transform Government: Five Plans and the Secret Sauce

https://democracychronicles.org/transform-government

]]>91df0aaa-63b2-4618-8490-71e2b81004a2Tue, 26 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -040021:42falsefull12121Dr. Lynn S. KahnThe Government Mechanic | WelcomeThe Government Mechanic | WelcomeWelcome to Episode 1 of my podcast The Government Mechanic. I’m going to describe my background, my goals, lessons from my 40-year career as an organizational psychologist, and what I saw and heard in 2015 and 2016 as an independent candidate for President of the United States.

]]>Welcome to Episode 1 of my podcast The Government Mechanic. I’m going to describe my background, my goals, lessons from my 40-year career as an organizational psychologist, and what I saw and heard in 2015 and 2016 as an independent candidate for President of the United States.

]]>0b24bffe-b9ca-42ba-99a6-6fb599f547bfTue, 26 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -040016:15falsefull11111Dr. Lynn S. Kahn