DC EKG

Ryan Long on the ACA Subsidy Fight, Phantom Enrollees, and Reforming 340B Jan 14, 2026

Podcast TitleDC EKG with Joe Grogan: A Healthcare Policy Podcast

Episode124

Episode TitleRyan Long on the ACA Subsidy Fight, Phantom Enrollees, and Reforming 340B

Episode DescriptionJoe Grogan is joined by Ryan Long of Paragon Health Institute and the University of Southern California to break down two fights shaping health policy right now: a California wealth tax pitch framed as a health care fix, and the battle over extending enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies.

They unpack how enhanced subsidies changed who qualifies, why zero-premium plans opened the door to broker-driven enrollment and fraud, and why the medical loss ratio creates perverse incentives that can push premiums higher. They also explain how silver loading and cost-sharing reduction policy distort the exchange market, and what reforms could lower costs without writing a blank check.

The episode closes with Ryan's latest work on the 340B program, including why drug arbitrage rewards hospitals with a stronger commercial mix and can fuel consolidation, and why direct, targeted assistance could better support hospitals that truly serve low-income and rural patients.

Chapters and Timestamps00:01 Intro00:23 Welcome, and what is on the agenda01:25 California wealth tax and structural deficits11:20 Enhanced ACA subsidies and the shutdown fight16:54 Income caps, zero premium plans, and phantom enrollees21:50 Fraud, Medicaid exposure, and public trust30:39 Medical loss ratio incentives and ACA market fixes38:41 340B: how arbitrage works and why it drives consolidation44:51 What reform could look like47:20 Closing

SEO KeywordsAffordable Care Act, ACA subsidies, enhanced subsidies, premium tax credits, exchange plans, zero premium plans, phantom enrollees, medical loss ratio, cost sharing reduction, silver loading, Medicaid fraud, Minnesota fraud, California wealth tax, 340B program, drug arbitrage, hospital consolidation, site neutral payments, commercial mix, Medicare Trust Fund

About Our GuestRyan Long is a health policy expert with experience on Capitol Hill, including years in the Speaker's office and on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. He is affiliated with Paragon Health Institute and the University of Southern California.

CreditsSponsor: Survivors for SolutionsExecutive Producer: John “CZ” Czwartacki, DC EKG PodcastProducer: Julie Riga, Stay on Course Studios, https://www.stayoncourse.studio

Healthcare AI Gets Real: Naomi Lopez on ACCESS, TEMPO, and the Future of Care Jan 02, 2026

DC EKG with Joe Grogan: A Healthcare Policy Podcast

Ep. 122

In this episode of DC EKG with Joe Grogan: A Healthcare Policy Podcast, Joe recaps the first Healthcare AI Policy Summit, held on December 10th in Washington, DC, with his co-host for the event, Naomi Lopez, founder of Nexus Policy Consulting.

They walk through the big themes shaping healthcare AI right now: how HHS is approaching AI adoption, what real regulatory clarity could look like, and how new federal initiatives like ACCESS and TEMPO may reshape chronic disease management for Medicare patients.

Joe and Naomi unpack HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill’s view of AI in government, from using large models to improve physician productivity, payment integrity, and care coordination to managing privacy and re-identification risk when working with federal health data.

They dig into the ACCESS Medicare payment model and the FDA TEMPO initiative, explaining how these pilots test AI and machine learning tools in real-world chronic disease management (hypertension, diabetes, musculoskeletal pain, and depression), and what that means for Medicare payment models, FDA oversight, and healthcare innovation.

The conversation then widens to physician burnout, interoperability, rural care, and the role of states and federal preemption in setting the rules for healthcare AI. If you care about the real-world impact of healthcare AI on policy, payment, and patients, this episode offers a clear, practical summary of what the summit revealed and what to watch next.

Today Joe and Naomi cover:

Jim O’Neill’s vision for AI at HHS, including internal AI adoption and keeping a direct line open for small innovators.
ACCESS and TEMPO as new federal test beds for AI in chronic disease management and Medicare payment.
How wearables, remote monitoring, and “virtual ICU” models can support aging in place and reduce pressure on state budgets.
Ways AI can reduce documentation burden, support care coordination, and act as a first-line triage tool without replacing clinicians.
The emerging idea of personal AI agents that help patients navigate the system and share the right data with clinicians.
How AI-enabled diagnostics and tools can expand access in rural and underserved communities.
Why interoperability, ONC’s API rules, and the balance between state AI regulation and federal preemption will shape how quickly these tools scale.
The potential for tech companies to become Medicare Part B providers under ACCESS, and what that means for reimbursement and competition.

Key Takeaways:

Healthcare AI is being built into policy through programs like ACCESS and TEMPO, tying AI tools to Medicare payment and FDA pathways in chronic disease management.

Regulatory clarity and predictable routes from FDA clearance to Medicare reimbursement are essential for sustained AI adoption.
AI is currently most valuable as a force multiplier for physician productivity, taking on administrative and analytic work so clinicians can focus on patients.
Personal AI agents may become a primary interface between patients and the health system, coordinating data, benefits, and care.
Rural and underserved communities could benefit significantly if payment and regulatory rules support AI-enabled diagnostics and remote care.
Interoperability, state AI laws, and federal preemption will determine whether healthcare AI stays in pilots or reaches patients nationwide.

Joe's guest, Naomi Lopez, is the founder of Nexus Policy Consulting and a leading voice in healthcare policy, healthcare AI, and state health reform. She co-founded a healthcare AI working group with Joe Grogan and co-hosted the inaugural Healthcare AI Policy Summit on December 10th in Washington, DC.

Fixing Obamacare Without Repeal: Tony LoSasso on Competition, Subsidies & Fiscal Reality Dec 10, 2025

In this episode of DC EKG with Joe Grogan: A Healthcare Policy Podcast, Joe sits down with health economist Tony LoSasso to dissect what serious, workable Obamacare reforms could look like without blowing up the Affordable Care Act entirely. They dig into the structure of healthcare subsidies, why current premium tax credits dull price sensitivity, and how that undermines insurance competition, drives up healthcare costs, and threatens the law's fiscal sustainability.

Tony lays out a path to modernize the ACA with defined-contribution-style subsidies, patient-directed “health freedom” accounts, and targeted support for people with preexisting conditions through high-risk pools, rather than hiding transfer programs inside community-rated premiums. Along the way, they tackle essential health benefits, community rating, Medicare pricing, certificate-of-need laws, and growing hospital market concentration, and ask what a real bipartisan healthcare reform deal might look like in today’s political climate.

James Gelfand on Ending Hospital Rip-Offs, Cutting Costs, and the Future of Employer-Sponsored Healthcare Oct 06, 2025

Joe Grogan sits down with James Gelfand, president and CEO of The ERISA Industry Committee (ERIC), to break down the future of employer-sponsored insurance and the challenges shaping healthcare policy. They discuss how rising healthcare costs affect both employers and employees, the evolution of health savings accounts, and why direct primary care and telehealth represent major shifts in employer benefits.

The conversation highlights the growing crisis in mental health, the impact of hospital consolidation on costs and quality, and the political battles over healthcare reform. Gelfand explains why employer-sponsored insurance remains a critical safety net and what changes are needed to bring more transparency, value, and balance to the healthcare system.

Ryan Long on The Hidden Costs of 340B and ACA Subsidies—and Why Reform Matters Sep 24, 2025

In this episode of DC EKG, host Joe Grogan is joined by Ryan Long, Capitol Hill veteran and senior research fellow at the Paragon Institute, to unpack two big health policy debates: the 340B drug discount program and the enhanced ACA premium tax credits. Ryan explains how 340B drives higher drug spending, hospital consolidation, and rising premiums, while often benefiting wealthier hospitals over safety-net providers. He also breaks down why the temporary ACA subsidies are set to expire in 2025, the fraud and enrollment issues they’ve created, and what both parties are gearing up for as the fight continues.

Dutch Rojas on Physician-Owned Hospitals, Transparency, and Ending Healthcare Monopolies Sep 15, 2025

In this episode of DC EKG, Joe Grogan sits down with healthcare entrepreneur and advocate Dutch Rojas to unpack some of the most pressing and misunderstood issues in American healthcare. From his unconventional path from accounting into healthcare to his outspoken advocacy for physician-owned hospitals, Rojas brings a fresh, unapologetic perspective to how we can break through the gridlock of consolidation and outdated policy. Rojas makes the case for why charity care is often used as a business strategy rather than genuine community support, and explains how site-neutral payments could dramatically lower costs for patients and employers alike. He also outlines how innovations like a healthcare commodities exchange could finally deliver the price transparency Americans deserve, and the competition the system desperately needs.

Inside the Business of American Healthcare with Wharton’s Dr. Lawton Burns Aug 24, 2025

Join host Joe Grogan for an exclusive masterclass with Dr. Robert Burns, James Joo-Jin Kim Professor of Health Care Management at the Wharton School. A nationally recognized expert on the U.S. healthcare system, Dr. Burns unpacks the complex forces driving healthcare costs.

With a background in sociology, anthropology, and decades of research, Dr. Burns reveals why so many healthcare reforms fail, what policymakers and business leaders get wrong, and how the U.S. healthcare ecosystem really works behind the headlines. If you’ve ever wondered why American healthcare is so expensive, and what can actually be done about it, this episode is a must-listen.

Debunking the Myths of the One Big Beautiful Bill with Brian Blase Aug 13, 2025

Critics have been quick to attack the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB), but how much of what you’ve heard is true? In this episode, Joe Grogan sits down with Brian Blase to set the record straight on the bill’s health policy reforms and why they matter. From Medicaid funding changes to the role of provider taxes, Brian and Joe break down the bill’s impact, debunk common myths, and explore what’s next for U.S. healthcare policy. They cover how work requirements, eligibility reviews, and a focus on value could transform the system.

Paragon Institute Myth-Busting Series on OBBB: https://paragoninstitute.org/issue-library/obbb-myths-and-facts/

Brian Blase X: https://x.com/brian_blase?lang=en

Sean Spicer on Why Legacy Media Is Failing, Trump’s Impact & the Future of GOP Messaging Aug 04, 2025

In this episode of DC EKG, Joe Grogan sits down with Sean Spicer, former White House Press Secretary and host of The Sean Spicer Show. Spicer shares his experiences from working in various political roles, his thoughts on Republican strategies for the midterms, and the challenges of communicating healthcare policies. The discussion also delves into the differences between legacy media and new media, highlighting the need for self-reflection within traditional news outlets.

Stephen Parente on How Transparency Can Fix U.S. Healthcare Costs Aug 04, 2025

Stephen Parente, former White House Chief Economist for Health Policy and current Minnesota Insurance Industry Chair of Health Finance and Associate Dean at the Carlson School of Management, joins host Joe Grogan to discuss the state of healthcare transparency. They dive into the pros and cons of price transparency, the impact of the No Surprises Act, challenges for insurers and providers, and what transparency means for healthcare costs and future policy. Parente also hosts the On Background podcast, where he explores key issues in health finance and public policy.

Dan Troy on the FDA, Free Speech, and the Future of Drug Innovation Jul 21, 2025

In this episode of DC EKG, host Joe Grogan sits down with Dan Troy, former Chief Counsel of the FDA and a nationally recognized expert on healthcare law and the First Amendment. They explore Troy’s unique journey from free speech litigator to one of the FDA’s top legal voices, examining how the agency regulates what drugmakers, doctors, and companies are allowed to say—and what they’re not. The conversation dives into the legal boundaries of off-label promotion, the impact of direct-to-consumer advertising on patient care, and the growing tension between innovation and regulation in the pharmaceutical industry. Troy also offers his perspective on the Inflation Reduction Act and its potential chilling effect on drug development, underscoring the need for bipartisan support in shaping healthcare policy.

How to Rescue Medicare and Rebuild America’s Health Insurance Market with Michael Cannon Jun 11, 2025

In this episode, Michael F. Cannon, the Cato Institute’s Director of Health Policy Studies, dives into the policy decisions that shaped Medicare and fundamentally distorted the U.S. health insurance market. From how tax incentives nudged Americans into employer-sponsored plans to the unintended consequences that left many seniors uninsured, Cannon breaks down the government’s role in creating systemic challenges in health care. He also explores how tax policy has long been used as a tool to mandate certain health behaviors, and what a less distorted, freer market might look like. If you want to understand the policy roots behind today’s health care complexities, this conversation is a must-listen.

Peter Pitts on Navigating FDA Bureaucracy and Unlocking Health Innovation May 23, 2025

In this conversation, Joe Grogan interviews Peter Pitts, a former FDA associate commissioner and current president of the Center for Medicine and the Public Interest. They discuss the role of FDA advisory committees, the importance of transparency in regulatory processes, and the intersection of vaccination and nutrition in public health. Pitts emphasizes the need for better dosing guidelines for obese patients and the significance of user fees in ensuring predictable FDA reviews. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities within the FDA and the broader healthcare landscape.

Tevi Troy on Power, Politics, and the Fight to Reclaim Big Pharma’s Image May 14, 2025

In this episode of DC EKG, host Joe Grogan interviews historian and political veteran Tevi Troy about the complex relationship between U.S. presidents and powerful industries. They discuss themes from his book The Power and the Money: The Epic Clashes Between Commanders in Chief and Titans of Industry and his op-ed In Defense of Big Pharma. The conversation explores why pharmaceutical companies are often political targets and the impact on innovation, how historical antitrust cases shape today’s tech and biotech battles, insights on Trump’s leadership and the future of the GOP, the importance of communication skills in politics and business, and behind-the-scenes stories from the Trump administration, offering valuable leadership lessons. This episode provides important insights for policymakers, investors, and anyone interested in the intersection of health, economics, and democracy.

How to Restore Patient Care in a Broken System with Dr. Anthony DiGiorgio Apr 18, 2025

Joe Grogan sits down with Dr. Anthony DiGiorgio, a neurosurgeon and health policy researcher, for a wide-ranging conversation on the challenges facing America’s healthcare system. Drawing on his experience at a safety net hospital, Dr. DiGiorgio discusses the realities of trauma care, including the treatment of traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries, and the systemic issues within Medicaid that hinder access and quality of care. The conversation also explores the misuse of the 340B program, the ethics and logistics of overlapping surgeries, and the growing crisis of physician burnout. Dr. DiGiorgio shares his advocacy for direct primary care and the promise of AI as tools to reduce administrative burdens and improve patient outcomes.

Ryan Long on How the 340B Drug Program Got Hijacked—and What It’s Costing Patients Apr 07, 2025

In this episode of DC EKG, policy expert Ryan Long unpacks the tangled evolution of the 340B program—from its origins in the early 1990s to its explosive, unintended role in today’s healthcare market. Originally designed to help hospitals serving the uninsured access affordable drugs, 340B has morphed into a tool for profit, driving hospital consolidation, inflating costs, and straining the biotech innovation ecosystem. Ryan explains how vague eligibility rules, lack of oversight, and policy loopholes have turned a small support program into a massive $54 billion industry—with no requirement that savings actually reach the patients it's meant to help. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in how drug pricing policy, hospital behavior, and innovation incentives are shaping the future of medicine in America.

How Legal Shifts Are Reshaping U.S. Healthcare Policy with Kelly Cleary Apr 06, 2025

In this episode of DC EKG, host Joe Grogan speaks with Kelly Cleary, a partner at Akin Law, about her career in healthcare regulatory law and her experience at HHS. They discuss the recent repeal of the Richardson waiver, its historical significance, and implications for healthcare policy and regulation. The conversation also touches on the end of Chevron deference and its potential impact on agency regulations, as well as personal reflections on the value of government service in shaping legal practice.

How Regulatory Reform Can Accelerate Medical Innovation in America with Dr. Brian Miller Mar 21, 2025

In this episode of DC EKG, host Joe Grogan sits down with Dr. Brian J. Miller to dissect the critical barriers slowing medical innovation in the United States. Together, they unpack the notorious "Valley of Death"—the daunting gap between FDA approval and Medicare coverage that delays patient access to groundbreaking treatments and technologies, often by an average of 5.7 years. Dr. Miller shares his insights on how outdated regulatory processes at both the FDA and CMS create unnecessary hurdles for life sciences and technology entrepreneurs. They explore how modernizing third-party reviews, streamlining clinical trials, and reforming coverage decisions could dramatically accelerate the journey from lab to patient.

Unpacking the Obamacare Money Laundering Scheme with Brian Blase Mar 04, 2025

In this episode, Joe Grogan and Brian Blase dive into the current state of Medicaid, exploring the urgent need for reforms to tackle inefficiencies, improper payments, and discriminatory reimbursement rates. Blase discusses the challenges stemming from the Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and how it has impacted traditional enrollees. The conversation also uncovers the troubling issue of Medicaid money laundering, shedding light on the practice of state-directed payments that sometimes surpass Medicare rates. Together, they discuss the pressing need for a more effective and equitable healthcare system that better serves those in need while ensuring accountability in healthcare spending. This episode is a critical look at how the ACA and Medicaid policies are shaping the future of American healthcare.

Trump’s Healthcare Overhaul & Canada as the 51st State? Sally Pipes Weighs In Feb 13, 2025

In this episode, Joe Grogan and Sally Pipes dive into the future of U.S. healthcare policy, discussing potential reforms under a second Trump administration. They explore executive orders, Medicaid challenges, and the flaws in Canada’s healthcare system. The conversation also tackles a provocative question: Could Canada ever become the 51st state? Sally breaks down the political, economic, and healthcare implications of such a shift. Plus, they discuss California’s wildfire mismanagement and the urgent need for political change.

Josh Rauh on the DOGE Initiative: Can It Fix America’s Financial Crisis? Feb 04, 2025

In this episode, Joe Grogan speaks with Professor Josh Rauh about the ongoing pension crisis in the United States, focusing on the inefficiencies of government pension systems and the impact on taxpayers. They explore the history of government pensions, the shift from defined benefit plans to 401(k) plans, and the alarming statistics of underfunded pensions in major cities like Chicago. The conversation also delves into potential budget cuts under the new DOGE initiative and the urgent need for fiscal responsibility in government spending to address America’s growing financial challenges. Tune in to learn how these issues could shape the future of government efficiency and public pensions.

Reforming Healthcare and Economic Policy to Help Americans Thrive with Vance Ginn Jan 21, 2025

In this episode, Joe Grogan sits down with Vance Ginn, an economist and host of the Let People Prosper podcast, to dive into healthcare reform, economic policy, and the power of state-level innovation. Vance shares his inspiring journey from his humble beginnings to his role as Chief Economist at the Office of Management and Budget. He discusses his work with think tanks, the challenges of federal spending, and the need for a market-based approach to healthcare to improve outcomes and reduce costs.

Listen to Vance’s podcast, Let People Prosper, for more insights on how economic policies can help individuals and families thrive.

Listen to Let People Prosper

3 Key Changes That Could Transform American Healthcare with Economist Anthony LoSasso Jan 15, 2025

In this episode, Joe Grogan speaks with Dr. Anthony Lo Sasso, a health economics expert, about the complexities of health insurance, healthcare access, and the role of employers in the healthcare system. They discuss the evolution of health economics, the misconceptions surrounding health insurance, and how these misunderstandings impact health outcomes. The conversation also covers the implications of employer-sponsored insurance and its influence on access to care. Throughout, Dr. Lo Sasso emphasizes the need for more public engagement from economists and the importance of understanding the dynamics of the healthcare market.

For further reading, check out the articles discussed in the episode:

Health Care Reform: The Tax Exclusion Dilemma: https://thehill.com/opinion/healthcare/5004743-health-care-reform-tax-exclusion/

Misconceptions About Health Insurance: https://thehill.com/opinion/healthcare/5046301-health-insurance-misconceptions/

Kat McDavitt and Lisa Bari of The Health Tech Talk Show on Healthcare Tech, Data, and Interoperability Jan 09, 2025

In this episode of DC EKG, Joe Grogan is joined by Kat McDavitt and Lisa Bari, hosts of the Health Tech Talk Show, to discuss the broader challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare data interoperability. They explore the critical role of CMS, state data infrastructure, and private sector efforts in improving data movement across healthcare systems. The conversation emphasizes the need for policy changes, innovation, and better regulatory frameworks to enhance data exchange, especially in Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP programs. Kat and Lisa also dive into the future of health tech innovations, including AI, women’s health, and behavioral health, highlighting the potential for progress in these areas. Later in the episode, the discussion turns to the ongoing legal battle between Epic and Particle Health, with Kat and Lisa offering insights into the dispute over healthcare data exchange. They explore the challenges of balancing innovation with patient privacy, particularly in light of Epic's decision to stop responding to data requests from Particle Health due to privacy concerns.

Resources Mentioned:

https://www.healthtechtalkshow.com/home-

What Actually Drives Better Health in America with Dr. Joel Zinberg Dec 30, 2024

In this conversation, Dr. Joel Zinberg discusses the complex relationship between health insurance and health outcomes, arguing that while insurance provides financial security, it does not significantly improve measurable health outcomes. He critiques the focus on government insurance programs like Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act, highlighting issues with access to care and the effectiveness of preventive measures. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of behavioral factors and medical innovation in improving health, suggesting that a shift in focus is needed to address the root causes of health issues, such as obesity and chronic diseases.

Dr. Robert Redfield on How RFK Jr.'s Vision for Health Reform Can End America’s Health Crisis Nov 29, 2024

In this insightful episode of DC EKG, Dr. Robert Redfield, former CDC Director, discusses the critical issues facing America's public health system. He advocates for vaccine transparency, individual choice, and reflects on the failures of the COVID vaccine rollout. Redfield calls for a holistic approach to public health, focusing on obesity, mental health, and addiction as key priorities. He stresses the need for a biosecure health system and biosecurity reforms to prepare for future pandemics. This episode explores actionable solutions to rebuild a healthier, more resilient America.

3 Ways to Fix Government in a Polarized Era with Daniel Rothschild Nov 18, 2024

How can we reform our government’s institutions to remain effective in a politically polarized era, where elites influence policy, global competition is rising, and social media shapes public perceptions? Daniel Rothschild and Joe Grogan explore this urgent challenge in-depth. They discuss the need for fundamental reform to modernize bureaucratic systems, improve efficiency, and increase accountability in government operations, particularly in relation to the federal budget. They analyze the political realignment in the U.S., the implications of Trump's reelection, and the role of elites in shaping public policy. The conversation also delves into the global state of democracy, touching on how social media affects public perception of government actions, and how institutions can be restructured to meet the demands of today’s complex political and economic landscape.

What a Trump 2.0 Presidency Means for the Future of Health Care with Dr. Lanhee Chen Nov 08, 2024

In this episode, Joe Grogan and Eric Ueland are joined by Dr. Lanhee Chen to discuss the future of healthcare policy in the U.S. They reflect on healthcare reforms under the first Trump administration and what a second term could bring, including the importance of price transparency and reorienting the system around patients. The conversation also covers Medicaid reform, state-level innovations, and critiques of the Inflation Reduction Act, highlighting the need for a more competitive, consumer-focused healthcare system. Chen shares his insights on the shift from staffer to candidate, emphasizing accountability in democracy and the need for deeper policy discussions in the media.

Justin Shubow on the Politics of Architecture and How to Make America Beautiful Again Oct 28, 2024

In this conversation, Joe Grogan and Justin Schubow discuss the recent World War I Memorial in Washington, D.C., exploring its artistic significance, contrasting it with other memorials, and examining the broader implications of architectural design in the city. Schubow emphasizes the importance of classical architecture and critiques modernist designs, advocating for a revitalization of Washington's aesthetic integrity. The discussion also touches on the political dynamics surrounding architectural commissions and the need for a more inviting public space in the nation's capital.

Ge Bai on the IRA, CBO Insights, and Long-Term Care Financial Burdens Oct 15, 2024

In this conversation, Joe Grogan and Ge Bai discuss the complexities of healthcare finance, focusing on the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and its implications for drug pricing and Medicare. They delve into the role of the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) in estimating the financial impacts of healthcare policies, highlighting the discrepancies between projected savings and actual costs. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by seniors under Medicare Part D, the potential consequences for drug innovation, and the need for bipartisan solutions in healthcare reform. Additionally, they explore the implications of proposed long-term care policies and the financial burdens they may impose.

Economist Casey Mulligan on How Democrats Secretly Gutted Medicare Sep 30, 2024

In this episode of DCEKG, hosts Eric Ueland and Joe Grogan engage with economist Casey Mulligan to dissect the implications of the Inflation Reduction Act, the dynamics of Medicare Advantage, and the challenges posed by regulatory overreach. They explore the shortcomings of the Congressional Budget Office in accurately scoring healthcare legislation, the impact of environmental policies on market dynamics, and the need for reform in the FDA's drug approval process. The conversation highlights the tension between government regulation and market efficiency, emphasizing the importance of understanding economic principles in shaping effective policy.

Examining the Impoundment Act and Its Impact on Budget Control with Mark Paoletta Sep 23, 2024

In this episode of DC EKG, we sit down with Mark Paoletta, a Partner at Schaerr Jaffe LLP and Senior Fellow at the Center for Renewing America. Paoletta takes a deep dive into the concept of impoundment—the presidential power to refuse to spend funds allocated by Congress. Drawing from historical examples, Paoletta critiques the Impoundment Control Act of 1974, arguing that it unconstitutionally limits the president’s authority over the budget. He also explores how various administrations have handled impoundment, with a focus on key disputes between the executive branch and Congress.

Connect with Mark Paoletta:

Twitter: @MarkPaoletta

Website: markpaoletta.com

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How Pharmacists Can Revolutionize Healthcare with Tim Frost Sep 16, 2024

In this episode of DC EKG, Tim Frost, Founder and President of 50 Elixir and Senior Fellow at the Cicero Institute, delves into the intersection of healthcare and policy, with a specific focus on the evolving role of pharmacists. Tim highlights the need for healthcare deregulation to spur innovation and improve patient care, particularly in light of the rising costs of medications and the challenges faced by independent pharmacies.

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Cicero Institute

50 Elixir

Where to Find Us:

Listen to DC EKG on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts

Connect with Tim Frost:

Tim Frost on LinkedIn

Tim Frost's Work at Cicero Institute

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Calley Means on Trump, RFK Jr. and the Path to Making America Healthy Again Sep 09, 2024

Callie Means, CEO of TruMed and co-author of the book Good Energy, discusses the partnership between RFK Jr. and Donald Trump in addressing childhood chronic disease. Means explains how he saw an alignment between Trump and RFK Jr. in their concern for childhood chronic disease and decided to bring them together. He emphasizes the need to address the corruption and conflicts of interest in the scientific guidelines and medical industry that contribute to the increasing rates of chronic disease. Means also highlights the importance of questioning the current system and finding solutions that prioritize the health of children.

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Resources Mentioned:

Good Energy: The Surprising Connection Between Health and Metabolism by Casey Means & Calley Means

TrueMed

Yuval Levin on How the Constitution Can Heal a Divided Nation Aug 26, 2024

In this riveting episode of DC EKG, we sit down with Yuval Levin, a leading voice in American constitutional thought and the author of the newly released book, American Covenant: How the Constitution Unified Our Nation and Could Again. Levin delves deep into the origins and evolution of the U.S. Constitution, offering a fresh perspective on its role in fostering unity across a diverse nation.

Resources:

Yuval Levin’s New Book: American Covenant: How the Constitution Unified Our Nation and Could Again – Available now on Amazon. Don’t miss out on this essential read that reexamines the promise of American constitutionalism.

Learn More About Yuval Levin: For more insights into Levin’s work and his impact on constitutional studies, visit his profile at AEI.

Unveiling National Security Failures: Victoria Coates on Arab-Israeli Relations and Global Geopolitics [DC EKG Rerun] Aug 12, 2024

In this special DC EKG rerun, Victoria Coates—former advisor to Defense Secretary Don Rumsfeld and coauthor of his memoir Known and Unknown—delivers a critical analysis of the 10/7 terrorist attacks and their impact on Arab-Israeli relations, a dynamic she helped shape during her tenure as Deputy National Security Advisor under President Trump. Coates reveals the current administration's failures in maintaining global peace, its narrow focus on China and climate issues, and the overextension in Ukraine, allowing Iran and Russia to undermine U.S. interests for the sake of their climate agenda

Dr. Joel Zinberg on Telehealth, AI, and Healthcare Reform – Insights from a Surgeon and Lawyer Aug 05, 2024

Join host Joe Grogan as he chats with Dr. Joel Zinberg, a senior fellow at the Competitive Enterprise Institute, in this insightful episode. Dr. Zinberg brings a unique perspective with his dual background in medicine and law. He shares his fascinating journey of pursuing both an MD and JD simultaneously, and how he balanced the demands of a surgical residency with law school. Dr. Zinberg provides valuable insights into his work in organ transplantation, highlighting the ethical and legal challenges involved. Dr. Zinberg also critiques recent Federal Trade Commission (FTC) decisions, particularly concerning pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), arguing that these actions are based on insufficient evidence and unproven legal theories, lacking empirical support.

Tune in for an enlightening conversation that delves into pressing issues in healthcare today!

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Check Out Joel's Work:

Learn more about Dr. Joel Zinberg here

Why Government Often Makes the Wrong Decisions with Jonathan Wolfson Jul 29, 2024

Hosts Joe and Eric chat with Jonathan Wolfson about his policymaking career, focusing on deregulation and workforce development at the Labor Department. They discuss government decision-making challenges and the Cicero Institute's entrepreneurial policy solutions. One notable proposal addresses the U.S. doctor shortage by allowing foreign-trained doctors to obtain provisional licenses, a policy now implemented in several states.

Chapters

07:22 Jonathan Wolfson's Career in Policymaking

18:19 The Wide Range of Issues Covered by the Labor Department

22:34 The Philosophical Approach of the Labor Department

25:04 Why Government Often Makes the Wrong Decisions

27:47 Working in State Policy

30:41 State Policy as a Model for Federal Policy

34:11 Policy Areas of Focus

36:02 Addressing the Shortage of Doctors

39:31 Factors Contributing to the Doctor Shortage

47:39 Potential Solutions for Increasing Access to Healthcare

51:39 Importing Foreign-Trained Physicians

Joe Grogan & Eric Ueland on Social Media’s Reaction to Attempted Assassination on Trump + RNC Highlights Jul 22, 2024

In this riveting episode, hosts Joe and Eric dive into two major political events shaping America's current landscape: the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump and key takeaways from the Republican National Convention. Join us for in-depth analysis, expert opinions, and the hosts' reactions to these significant developments. We'll explore how the media played a dual role—bringing the assassination attempt to the public's attention while also attempting to downplay its significance.

What Biden's Debate Means for His Candidacy & a Historic UK Political Shakeup: Joe & Eric React Jul 08, 2024

In this insightful episode, Joe and Eric begin by delving into the recent historic shakeup in UK politics. They dissect the reasons behind Labour's significant win and the surprising success of Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party. The discussion then shifts to the aftermath of the first presidential debate in the US. Joe and Eric analyze its implications for both Joe Biden and Donald Trump's candidacies, exploring how each candidate performed across different policy areas and what these performances could mean for their respective campaigns moving forward.

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Follow Eric: https://x.com/RealEU4U

Men Without Meaning: Brenda Hafera on the Crisis Facing Boys in America Jul 01, 2024

In this episode, hosts Joe and Eric discuss Brenda Hafera's impactful report, "Men Without Meaning: The Harmful Effects of Expressive Individualism," from The Heritage Foundation. The report examines the crisis facing American boys and men across mental, physical, economic, academic, and spiritual dimensions. Hafera critiques welfare policies for their unintended impact on single motherhood and explores how the sexual revolution has reshaped family dynamics. She also addresses the transformation of marriage into a later-life status symbol and concerns about the decline of free play in schools, impacting child development. The episode further explores links between absent fathers and school violence, advocates for positive depictions of fatherhood, and emphasizes the need for supportive educational and vocational environments for boys.

Support the show: https://twitter.com/DCEKGpodcast

Brenda's latest work: https://www.heritage.org/staff/brenda-hafera

Jackson Hammond on the Exploding Costs of U.S. Health Care: Analyzing the 2023 CMS NHE Report Jun 24, 2024

In this episode of DC EKG, hosts Joe Grogan and Eric Ueland welcome Jackson Hammond, a Senior Policy Analyst at Paragon Health Institute, to explore the future of U.S. health spending. Jackson provides a detailed analysis of the CMS National Health Expenditure report, discussing the projected $7.7 trillion spending by 2032, current expenditure trends, and the drivers behind 2023's spending spike. The conversation also covers the impact of inflation and policy changes, the challenges of sustaining such high spending levels, and potential reforms like enhancing patient control, transparent pricing, and reducing health system monopolies.

Why California's Free Healthcare for Illegal Immigrants Spells Trouble with Sally Pipes Jun 17, 2024

In this episode of DC EKG, hosts Joe Grogan and Eric Ueland sit down with Sally Pipes, the President and CEO of the Pacific Research Institute, to discuss California's decision to provide free healthcare to illegal immigrants and its implications for taxpayers and the healthcare system. Throughout the discussion, Sally delves into the challenges of a single-payer healthcare system, discusses patient empowerment amidst government-centric policies, and critiques the Affordable Care Act for its ongoing issues.

Support the show: https://x.com/DCEKGpodcast

Follow Sally: https://x.com/sallypipes

Lessons from the Covid Years with Dr. Kevin Bardosh Jun 10, 2024

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kevin Bardosh to explore the profound impacts of COVID-19 policies on society. From the harms of social distancing and lockdowns to the ethical dilemmas posed by vaccine mandates, Dr. Bardosh provides a comprehensive analysis of the balance between individual rights and public health needs. We also delve into the ideology driving current public health policies and discuss necessary reforms. Finally, we examine the WHO's proposed Pandemic Treaty and the broader implications for global health governance.

Dr. Jay Bhattacharya: The War on Academic & Scientific Freedom (Flashback Episode) Jun 04, 2024

In a special DC EKG flashback episode, we're revisiting one of our favorite conversations with Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, the director of Stanford's Center for Demography and Economics of Health and Aging. Jay tells the sad and painful story of how the government, big tech, and academia conspired to suppress voices. Blacklisting at Twitter, ruined careers, and zero tolerance for questioning use of masks on children, the efficacy of vaccines, and lockdowns. The federal government's implied and real threats to ensure censorship. and the terrible price price paid that will echo through generations. Dr. Jay shares ideas on how to restore public trust and improve the scientific community.

You can also see this interview on our YouTube page here: https://youtu.be/8HBeapB0nws

Dr. Marty Makary on What Medicine Gets Wrong & How it Impacts Our Health May 28, 2024

In this episode of DC EKG, Dr. Marty Makary uncovers the alarming truth behind some of modern medicine's most significant blunders, revealing how medical groupthink has caused widespread harm. From the surge in peanut allergies due to misguided recommendations to the dire consequences of opioid misinformation, he exposes the hubris of the medical establishment and its failings. Additionally, he delves into the recent congressional inquiry on deleted COVID-19 emails, highlighting where medicine faltered and emphasizing the critical need for transparency in healthcare.

-LINKS-

Support the show: https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FDCEKGpodcast

Support Dr. Makary: https://x.com/martymakary?lang=en

Pre-order new book BLIND SPOTS now

The Economics of Ozempic & Other Weight Loss Drugs: A Deep Dive with Ben Ippolito May 20, 2024

Join hosts Joe Grogan and Eric Ueland on DC EKG as they delve into the complexities of health economics in America with special guest Ben Ippolito. In this episode, they explore the skyrocketing prices of GLP-1 weight loss drugs and discuss the potential for Medicare coverage. Ben Ippolito sheds light on the current prohibition against Medicare covering weight loss drugs, the shift from viewing obesity as a cosmetic issue to recognizing it as a clinical outcome, and the high out-of-pocket expenses people are willing to pay. Ben also examines the business implications for pharmaceutical companies if Medicare covers these drugs, the impact of price caps under the IRA, and the competitive challenges new market entrants face.

--LINKS--

Follow DC EKG: https://twitter.com/DCEKGpodcast

Follow Ben: https://twitter.com/ben_ippolito

Exploring Health Savings Accounts with John C. Goodman May 13, 2024

In this episode of DC EKG, hosts Joe Grogan and Eric Ueland sit down with John C. Goodman, renowned as the "father of the health savings account" by The Wall Street Journal. As the President of the Goodman Institute for Public Policy Research and a Senior Fellow at the Independent Institute, Goodman sheds light on the transformative power of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) in the realm of healthcare.

During the discussion, Goodman delves into the essence of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and their pivotal role in empowering patients by giving them the autonomy to allocate their healthcare spending according to their needs and preferences. The conversation extends to exploring the potential Republican healthcare plan, with a particular focus on the advantages of portable insurance and how it can enhance healthcare access and flexibility for individuals.

Moreover, Goodman provides insights into proposed changes to HSAs, highlighting their potential to improve healthcare accessibility and affordability for a broader segment of the population. Additionally, the episode touches upon the emergence of concierge doctors and their significance in the evolving healthcare landscape, offering a glimpse into the future of patient-centered healthcare delivery.

-LINKS-

Support the show: https://twitter.com/DCEKGpodcast

Follow Dr. Goodman: https://twitter.com/DrJohnCGoodman

Pre-order Dr. Goodman's book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1598133179/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_uTrYFbQ7HAM7A

Ivy-League Anti-Semitism with Tevy Troy May 06, 2024

In this episode of DC EKG, former United States Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services, Tevy Troy, delves into the troubling rise of anti-Semitic and anti-American protests on college campuses. With a keen eye on historical context, Troy offers invaluable insights into the roots of these movements and their implications for the future. Additionally, he sheds light on the unexpected consequences of elite colleges prioritizing traits like progressive activism in their admissions processes, sparking a provocative discussion on the evolving landscape of higher education.

Support the show: https://twitter.com/DCEKGpodcast

Follow Tevy: https://twitter.com/DCEKGpodcast

Dr. Brian Miller On How AI Can Save Healthcare Apr 29, 2024

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Brian Miller, a Family Medicine Physician and Assistant Professor at Johns Hopkins University, to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in addressing burnout within the healthcare industry and streamlining administrative processes. Dr. Miller highlights the regulatory burdens across various healthcare services and their impact on the well-being of doctors and nurses. We discuss how AI can enhance the efficiency of healthcare professionals, enabling them to focus more on high-value patient care while navigating risk aversion and regulatory barriers that have hindered innovation in the field. Drawing parallels with the FCC, Dr. Miller suggests how the FDA could facilitate data portability and centralization to drive innovation in healthcare. Furthermore, we delve into how AI holds promise in alleviating the burnout epidemic among healthcare workers, offering solutions to improve their work-life balance. Dr. Miller also explains how AI implementation can lead to cost savings within the healthcare system and empower FDA regulators to provide more value in pharmaceutical oversight, facilitating a shift towards proactive monitoring.

Dr. Brian Miller Opinion Articles:

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/innovation-driven-future-food-and-drug-administration

https://www.aei.org/research-products/report/using-artificial-intelligence-to-improve-administrative-process-in-medicaid/

Follow Dr. Miller:

https://twitter.com/DrBrian4Health

Register for Health Policy and the 2024 Election Event:

https://www.aei.org/events/health-policy-and-the-2024-election/

Follow DC EKG:

https://twitter.com/DCEKGpodcast

Eric Ueland Deciphers AI Healthcare Policy Questions... Generated by AI! Apr 22, 2024

In this episode of DC EKG, Eric Ueland addresses questions crafted by AI regarding the integration of AI in healthcare, sparked by Nvidia and Hippocratic AI's partnership in developing empathetic health agents. Delving into ethical and regulatory considerations, Eric examines the implications of AI's role in healthcare staffing, patient care, and the balance between cost-efficiency and quality of care.

-Links-

Follow Eric:

https://twitter.com/realeu4u?lang=en

Follow DC EKG:

https://twitter.com/DCEKGpodcast

The EYE OPENING Reality Of Accessing Life-Changing Medications & FDA Bureaucratic Battles With Judy Stecker Apr 15, 2024

In this episode of DC EKG, former HHS policy staffer now activist Judy Stecker shares her deeply personal journey advocating for her son Wheeler, who suffers from a rare genetic disease. Peeling back the layers of FDA bureaucracy, Judy exposes the rigid, bureaucratic structure that obstructs access to life-changing medications. We discuss the stringent regulations that hinder innovation, ethical considerations surrounding clinical trials, the impact of Operation Warp Speed on expediting procedures, as well as invaluable insights on fostering broader accessibility to groundbreaking treatments.

-Links-

Judy’s WSJ article:

https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-fda-could-help-save-my-son-from-a-rare-disease-bureaucracy-efficacy-7090ac82

Wheeler’s Warriors:

https://wheelerswarriors.org/our-story

https://twitter.com/DCEKGpodcast

Jeremy Weber on statistics and public policy Apr 08, 2024

Economist and author Jeremy Weber explains to Joe and Eric how numbers and policy aides can avoid mistakes of their academic training. Former lead economist for White House's Council of Economic Advisors writes the must-read book all econ and policy aides to policymakers: Statistics for Public Policy: A Practical Guide to Being Mostly Right (or at Least Respectably Wrong) https://a.co/d/bkVxHSH

Inside New York's health care politics and policy, part two. Apr 01, 2024

2020 memoir, honorary Emmy and a scrubbing of deadly nursing home death data all added up to an epic undoing of the New York governor. Scarce Covid tests for his family, public resources used for his book, and mounting sexual harassment allegations all tip the scales against the bullying and ambitious Andrew Cuomo. Joe and Eric divine the facts around this complex scandal which ultimately took the lives of thousands of vulnerable New Yorkers. Consultant study has been commissioned but lacks independence or subpoena power. The responsibility of public officials is to honestly look at what we did wrong. Will call for a full accounting of the facts gain traction?

Part One of a Two part Intererview with Bill Hammond of the Empire Center and a journalist of 30 years about health care and Albany politics Mar 25, 2024

Bill shares his deep, first hand knowledge of America’s second largest Medicaid program. The current governor has departed from the historic efforts to rein in the always bloating health system to runaway growth in the program. This episode sets up the second part of this interview, the rise and fall of then governor Andrew Cuomo. Nursing home deaths, suppressed public data, and possible impeachment.

Healthcare Budget Dissected with Greg D’Angelo Mar 18, 2024

Joe and Eric geek out over budget and reconciliation details with their guest, Greg D’Angelo; this trifecta of budget experts talk over the $1.8 trillion HHS proposal. If you caught the administration’s Federal Budget news last week, you don’t want to miss these “deep tracks:” HHS delivers their “QFRs” more than a year late (imagine what “single payer” waiting rooms would be like?); rebate rules and expanded ACA; a timid and disappointing administration approach to AI; and what the deep state plans to spend tax dollars allotted for Medicare Rx prices- six times more than was given to set up the entire Obamacare program.

DC EKG interviews former deputy "Drug Czar" Art Kleinschmidt, 2024 Mar 11, 2024

Eric and Joe invited Art Kleinschmidt back to the program for his expert viewpoint. Art, who after his own recovery, was awarded several advanced degrees, established a clinical practice, and served as the deputy United States “drug czar”, assessed the current opioid crisis. He shares how overdoses under the previous administration were reduced, why the Covid lockdowns shattered that tenuous progress, and how the enabling policies of the current administration have seen deaths increase by nearly 40% and now results in more than 106,000 deaths a year.

2024 State of the Union Address: Immigration, Inflation, and Israel, Oh My! Mar 04, 2024

Joe and Eric offer their unique insight into what does into the address, a breakdown of the issues you can expect to hear about, and even a few takes on what the White House’s staff may work into the remarks to help their own job searches. Thoughts about how gallery guests are used to illustrate points, ideas about how they will pull off the “breathing room” trope, and the tough job of giving the response, assigned this year to the junior senator from Alabama.

Report from Medicaid's Front Lines: Discussion with a Fmr State Director of Human Services, Chris Jones Feb 26, 2024

Chris Jones talks with Joe and Eric about the team Gov. Doug Burgum built, the stories of overcoming bureaucracy, and achieving better outcomes for beneficiaries and taxpayers alike. Currently with the think tank Cicero Institute, Chris is sharing how one state was able to deflate cost AND improve health.

+Health Care Time Bomb: How IRA price controls guarantee shortages, fewer innovations Feb 19, 2024

Ge Bai, born and raised in China but a US resident for two decades, applies her Michigan State phD in accounting and time at Johns Hopkins to the American health care landscape in a riveting discussion with Joe and Eric. Ge exposes the exploitation of taxpayers by the so-called non-profit hospital system, explores market and policy failures promising spiraling shortages, while shining a light on glimmers of hope for the robust and undeterred problem solving DNA of the American consumer and marketplace.

DC EKG Revisits: Art Kleinschmidt Part 3 Feb 12, 2024

In the third episode of this three-part discussion, Art shares details on his latest effort to help improve substance abuse treatment in the US. He began a nonprofit called the “Recovery Now” foundation. They also review current public policies branded as “harm reduction.” During this administration these measures are normalizing dependency and drug use, which in his view is the most effective way to break down the family unit. They also discuss how meth labs have been put out of business by importation of more legal and powerful drugs manufactured south of the border. They conclude discussion about how to get help for those who need it by calling 800-662-4357 *Episode aired October 26, 2022*

DC EKG Revisits: Art Kleinschmidt Part 2 Feb 05, 2024

In the second part of their three-part discussion, the discussion begins with what Art saw on his trip (August of 2022) to the southern border. Art shares how drug cartels monitor and control the border, use migrants who can’t afford the $6000 fee coyotes charge to smuggle them across the US, and the sophisticated tactics the cartels use to evade US border patrol. Art also unmasks the fallacy of public distribution of “test strips” and buddy system use stating flatly that “there is no safe way to consume outside a hospital.” Because the euphoric effect of the drug diminishes before exiting the human body, users would be tempted to consume more while actual levels of the opioid are still in the system leading to tragic overdoses. He also confirms with previous podcast Casey Mulligan’s data on the number of opioid overdose deaths in the US is 108,000 which is up from the approximate death toll under President Trump. For help with substance abuse call 800-662-4357 *Episode originally aired October 6, 2022*

DC EKG Revisits: Art Kleinschmidt Part 1 Jan 29, 2024

This episode tackles one of the most important public policy issues facing the US today. Joe and Eric hold a three-part discussion with their guest Art Kleinschmidt, where they review the current opioid crisis, discuss what public policy and recovery look like, and explore Art’s story of how he lived as a recovering user himself. The following three episodes take place in September of 2022, and all three include information to share if you or someone you know is in need of help with a substance abuse addiction. The hotline number to find help near you: 800-662-4357. *Episode originally aired October 26, 2022*

Medicaid misinformation abounds. Fiscal discipline, not so much. Jan 22, 2024

Take a listen to the federal takeover efforts of state Medicaid policy from Minnesota-based policy expert Peter Nelson. Peter is a senior policy fellow at the Center for the American Experiment, based in the Twin Cities, Federalization, attacks on "too much" choice, and state golden handcuffs of continuous coverage requirements leading too many people with double coverage. 'Precautionary Principle" leading to militant opposition to state good faith attempts to help the system. Peter is in MN, but served in CMS 5 years ago and shares the chaos of the exchanges and the gigantic increases in premiums (93%) and little competition. Listen to a fresh voice with expertise earned from both the state and federal levels.

DC EKG Revisits: Charley Hooper Part 3 Jan 15, 2024

Joe and Eric continue their discussion with Charley. The conversation explores how drugmakers approach the market and fund new research. They highlight the explicit ways the IRA will undermine the delicate development process for life prolonging and life saving drugs. *This episode aired October 2022*

DC EKG Revisits: Charley Hooper Part 2 Jan 08, 2024

Joe and Eric continue their discussion with Charley. The conversation explores how drugmakers approach the market and fund new research. They highlight the explicit ways the IRA will undermine the delicate development process for life prolonging and life saving drugs. *This episode aired October 2022*

‘Forecast 24:’ DC EKG previews the year ahead Dec 18, 2023

Joe and Eric drop invaluable deep takes on how the world will shape up in 2024. From healthcare, to to the elections, to policy, problems, and politics of ‘24 … are all right here. Healthcare fights; possible “curve ball” disruptions; Republican todos January 21, 2025; Biden second term; congressional election prediction. Plus more on our final program of 2023.

AI: DC Policymakers Face a Crossroads Dec 11, 2023

Hosts Joe Grogan and Eric Ueland explore the paths forward for policymakers grappling with the limitless possibilities of AI. They are joined by prolific author and 30+ year veteran of Washington’s approach to technology, innovation, and public policy, Adam Thierer. They discuss how global regulators have helped—or harmed—human progress and American innovation. This episode is a master class in the precedents and current thinking shaping this rapidly evolving technology. See more at these links.

Helpful links:

Pieces by Adam

Without Section 230 Protections, Generative AI Innovation Will Be Decimated

Flexible, Pro-Innovation Governance Strategies for Artificial Intelligence

Overregulating AI Will Disrupt Markets and Discourage Competition

White House Executive Order Threatens to Put AI in a Regulatory Cage

What I Learned about the Power of AI at the Cleveland Clinic

Running List of My Research on AI, ML & Robotics Policy

Commentary and contributions by Joe

AI Healthcare Working Group

AI in health care: The perils of Biden's executive order

News and recent developments

E.U. Agrees on Landmark Artificial Intelligence Rules

Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence

DC EKG: Medicare Advantage with Lisa Grabert Dec 04, 2023

Designed to give seniors more options, the Congress designed MA is ways that be working too well. Highly informative discussion about the wonky details of Medicare, its trust fund, and why MA is in so many cross hairs.

DC EKG Revisits: Charley Hooper Part 1 Nov 27, 2023

Joe and Eric speak with Charley Hooper, author of the book Should the FDA Reject Itself? Part one of their discussion explores the likely impact of the Inflation Reduction Act and its drug pricing provisions, which include: overall drug production, the total impact on inflation, as well as the irony of prices actually going up as a result. *Episode aired Oct 26, 2022*

DC EKG talks to former Judge Katie Sullivan Nov 20, 2023

Former Judge Sullivan walks us through her 11 years on the bench and what works for people who struggle with addiction. From presiding over local “problem solving court” to her own experience being in recovery herself for 20+ years, her time in the department of justice in Washington, she helps explain why the hopelessness of addiction is made worse by bad government. Enabling addiction with free crack pipes and warm washcloths, and ignoring community (and free) solutions like Alcoholics Anonymous. In 2020, 10,000 AA participants studied were found it to be the most effective treatment. But not something the government controls.

Common sense from an uncommon voice of reason and experience, this is not to be missed.

DC EKG: Talks about the 100 year life Nov 13, 2023

Longer human life doesn’t have to be the gloomy picture demographers have portrayed. Humans have diminished most early childhood diseases, and many middle aged fatalities. We need to live, learn, and work smarter for a longer period of time. We should look at the increasing lifespan as a longer middle age and plan for it. Andrew Scott takes us through how to approach having longer life ahead, from his book The 100 Year Life.

DC EKG: Talks w/ Building and design expert Justin Shubow Nov 06, 2023

Justin Shubow joins Eric and Joe to share insights and history of the best, worst, and most brutal of government buildings and monuments.

DC EKG: Energy and regulation with Mike McKenna Oct 30, 2023

This week’s program hosts a raw, unpacking of hard truths about: the SPR, nuclear opponents within the NRC, and the conflict between China hawks vs green energy advocates. Join Eric and Joe for their discussion with energy strategist, Mike McKenna for unvarnished jolt of reality.

DC EKG National Security expert, Victoria Coates Oct 23, 2023

Former advisor to former Defense Secretary Don Rumsfeld and coauthor of his book, Known and Unknown. Victoria shares her insights about the 10/7 terrorist attackers and the impact on Arab-Israeli relations. Relations which she played a role in advancing during her time on the Trump White House working as the deputy national seocurity adviser. She exposes the failures of the current administration to safeguard peace, myopic view of chi China and climate, and the taking on too heavy a burden in defending Ukraine. Iran and Russia are both allowed to trample our interests in service of their climate agenda.

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DC EKG: Joe and Eric on Speaker chaos Oct 16, 2023

Joe gets Eric to provide a tutorial on what is really going on in the House. Don’t miss this discussion around the speaker pro tem, the legislation on hold, and how we got here. Note: congressman Steve Scalise was shot during a practice for a congressional baseball game. It was incorrectly mentioned as “softball”.

DC EKG: Talks with the fmr head of Bureau of Labor Statistics, Bill Beach Oct 10, 2023

DC EKG Revisits: Mark Paoletta Part 3 Oct 02, 2023

This episode explores the enormous historical figure that is Justice Clarence Thomas. Insights on his story are detailed in a discussion about the book Mark co-wrote/edited, Created Equal: Clarence Thomas in His Own Words, which discusses Justice Thomas’s early life surviving the deepest of challenges of poverty. We also explored Justice Thomas’s experience being taught by Irish nuns and the profound and systemic racism he experienced growing up in the deep south.

DC EKG Revisits: Mark Paoletta Part 2 Sep 25, 2023

This episode covers how the Congress can investigate the FTX scandal, the need to learn what happened with the botched and tragic pullout from Afghanistan, and how to begin the examination of the government’s actions regarding Covid-19. The best ways to conduct an examination of public health mistakes of the last few years include examination of free speech suppression; the conduct of large bureaucracies; the lockdown of schools, and inappropriate influence by outside groups. Mark’s experience and advice on proper oversight is a must see.

DC EKG: Special Edition- speaker turbulence, shutdown looms. and the political landscape Sep 18, 2023

Joe and Eric review breaking news out of Washington. Eric gives a deep cut on the spending crisis and what is in store for both the house andpp senate. Plus McCarthy grief.

DC EKG Revisits: Mark Paoletta Part 1 Sep 11, 2023

Over the next three episodes Joe and Eric speak with Mark Paoletta, a distinguished attorney in Washington, a former oversight lawyer on Capitol Hill, and the editor/author of the book Created Equal: Clarence Thomas in his Own Words. This episode explores how the new Republican House majority should conduct oversight. The discussion centered on Mark’s experience investigating the malfeasance at Enron, WorldCom, and Global Crossing, as well as his thoughts on how Congress can inform the public and itself about fraud and abuse in the private sector and within the executive branch. This interview was recorded in early November 2022 just after the new majority was declared in the House of Representatives.

DC EKG: Talks with David Senior Part III Sep 05, 2023

Common misconceptions and why pharmaceutical market is so different. List price, co pays and deductibles, oh my. Bio similars v small molecule, how the evolution here promises great things. Competition is real and generates real savings, and deflation. Opportunity for savings was real, IRA causing disruption to that. Cell and gene therapies are just the latest revolution for patients therapies: branded drugs, generic medicines, small molecule, bio similar. Who pays for these high cost, high reward solutions. How does performance play a role?

DC EKG Talks w/ David SENIOR PART II Aug 28, 2023

Discussed: Batch processing versus Continuous flow technology to onshore manufacturing of medicine. The way we increase the reliability of the supply chain is embrace innovation and bring this close to home. National security is improved as well. Supply driven shortages is again a factor, replacing the Covid crisis “demand “driven shortages. On, or near, shore needs to continue. Also discussed: Manufacturing is facing R&D impacts and the IRA is making substantial impact. Uncertainty and changes to research and development are expected not a theory.

When the government constrains the price they pay, the price paid by everyone else goes up.

DC EKG: Talks w/ medical supply chain expert David Senior , Part I Aug 21, 2023

Who better to hear from about the condition of the condition of shortages dogging the healthcare supply chain than someone closest to the issue. David Senior is a longtime official with AmerisourceBergen, one of the world’s largest players in that chain. He discusses the historical challenges as well as the pressures of deflation on supply.

DC EKG: Talks w/ Naomi Lopez Part III Aug 14, 2023

Naomi wraps the third segment with a flourish of innovative thought. About how much value is being added by the latest developments in medicine, how the shrinking cost of most drugs are spurring market choices, and how states are driving some exciting developments in health public policy. Plus the importance of staying healthy as we age.

DC EKG: Talks w/ Health Expert, Naomi Lopez Part II Aug 07, 2023

The conversation continues with helpful insights- and cautions- about regulating AI, observations about the ability of Washington to keep up with the pace of change, and how we need to reimagine our approach. Also the invidious efforts to ration cures through the IRA under the cover of price controls. Bureaucracies and political agendas are stepping in to decide that they know better than patients and doctors about the value of your life.

DC EKG: with Naomi Lopez, part I Jul 31, 2023

Goldwater institute health expert, Naomi Lopez, shares her view on why artificial intelligence should not be feared, and can bring great advantages to medicine. elements of it have also been around for a long time, powering every day items like driver assist and crash avoidance. Naomi also talks about her work on behalf of “right to try” and the help it has delivered to people who have been frustrated by slow FDA approval’s.

DC EKG: Talks with Dr. Jay Bhattacharya Jul 24, 2023

Recorded on 7/20- the same day the Stamford University president was forced to resign - Dr. Jay offers comment (50:10) on the hostile work environment allowed on campus.

The sad and painful story of how the government, big tech, and academia conspired to suppress voices. Blacklisting at Twitter, ruined careers, and zero tolerance for questioning use of masks on children, the efficacy of vaccinees, and lockdowns. The federal government's implied and real threats to ensure censorship. and the terrible price price paid that will echo through generations. Dr. Jay shares ideas on how to restore public trust and improve the scientific community.

You can also see this interview on our YouTube page here:https://youtu.be/8HBeapB0nws

DC EKG: Talks w/ Budget Expert Paul Winfree, Part III Jul 17, 2023

The importance of growing the economy, the promise of AI, and why the future will brighter we needn’t be afraid.

DC EKG: Talks w/ Budget Expert Paul Winfree, Part II Jul 10, 2023

The budget conversation continues with Paul. Here Joe and Eric press the question of the viability of maintaining such a large national debt and how economic growth is so vital. Currently the US is world’s leading asset today but we should de-risk our position by remaining a strong nation and drive economic growth. It’s Paul’s view that you cannot grow revenue faster than you grow the economy.

DC EKG: Talks w/ Budget Expert Paul Winfree, Part I Jul 03, 2023

Paul shares his career history, the journey to his newly minted PhD, and useful context for today’s fiscal strife in DC. In this first part of a three-part conversation, Joe and Eric dive into what brought Paul to the fold of federal budget expertise, and useful top line takeaways from his London school of economics training.

DC EKG: Economist Tomas Philipson, Part III Jun 05, 2023

Part III of Joe and Eric’s talk with economist Tomas Philipson focuses on his role as acting head of the Council of Economic Advisers from the start of the Covid crisis. What it was like to watch the “blue collar boom” and 3%+ GDP growth get undone by the pandemic, and how public health attitudes toward prevention at any cost, cost us dearly. And how the two tier approach (protect venerable / keep economy open) advocated by CEA lost out to fear and public health virologists who were not okay with getting healthy people information to decide for themselves.

DC EKG: Economist Tomas Philipson, Part II May 29, 2023

In the second part of a three-part interview, hosts Joe Grogan and Eric Ueland glean more gems from University of Chicago economist, Tom Philipson. Discussed are the damaging results of the two-year decline in US real wages, market volatility caused by government largesse, and the asymmetrical focus on bureaucrats over actual economic supply and demand metrics. Part one of this discussion begins with a unyielding dissection of the damage be done by the IRA to medical discovery. This week they discuss the regressive harm, being done in the name of “green” energy with additional burdens placed on lower income people. Learn more about Tom and keep up with his latest writings on his LinkedIn page:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomas-j-philipson-02878024/

DC EKG: Talks w/ Economist Tomas Philipson, Part I May 22, 2023

From the public announcements of discontinued research, the fuzzy CBO math that is under-counting the reductions in cures, to the bloated use of taxpayer dollars to implement price control. Its a data rich discussion that's sure to send shivers down the spines of policymakers, practitioners , and patients alike.

Tom can be found: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomas-j-philipson-02878024/

DC EKG Revisits: Conversation with Casey Mulligan, Part 2 May 15, 2023

In a wide-ranging discussion, the boys explore the cause-and-effect of both the legal and illegal opioid epidemic. The role of an unsecured southern border has on the drug trade, the long-lasting impact of covid shutdowns on children and American health productivity, and current threats from inflation and possibility of recession. *Episode originally aired July 21, 2022*

DC EKG Revisits: Conversation with Casey Mulligan, Part 1 May 08, 2023

The boys discuss the work and background of PhD economist, and University of Chicago's own, Casey Mulligan. Part one looks into how as a member of President Trump Counsel of Economic Advisors (CEA) informed and updated the president on socialism, wages, and the historic deregulatory effort his administration was undertaking. *Episode originally aired July 21, 2022

DC EKG Revisits: Conversation with Tevi Troy, Part 3 May 01, 2023

Tevi Troy, best-selling presidential historian and a former senior government official, joins DC EKG

DC EKG Revisits: Conversation with Tevi Troy, Part 2 Apr 24, 2023

Tevi Troy, best-selling presidential historian and a former senior government official, joins DC EKG

DC EKG Revisits: Conversation with Tevi Troy, Part 1 Apr 17, 2023

Tevi Troy, best-selling presidential historian and a former senior government official, joins DC EKG

Ep8: Part 3: Conversation with John Czwartacki Apr 10, 2023

Ep8: Part 2: Conversation with John Czwartacki Apr 03, 2023

Ep8: Part 1: Conversation with John Czwartacki Mar 27, 2023

Ep7: Part 3: Conversation with Tevi Troy Feb 24, 2023

Tevi Troy, best-selling presidential historian and a former senior government official, joins DC EKG

Ep7: Part 2: Conversation with Tevi Troy Feb 24, 2023

Tevi Troy, best-selling presidential historian and a former senior government official, joins DC EKG

Ep7: Part 1: Conversation with Tevi Troy Feb 24, 2023

Tevi Troy, best-selling presidential historian and a former senior government official, joins DC EKG

Ep6: Part3: Conversation with Tyler Goodspeed Dec 13, 2022

Joe and Eric continue their discussion with Tyler Goodspeed and explore disruptions that come from inflation. Tyler reveals that the best indicator of how the economy is doing in high and medium inflation environments is the consumer, better than government economists and academics. Tyler explains how the US dollar is the world's reserve currency and is not under threat by China, or any other entity at this time. But he does say that he could see other central banks diversifying into more than US Treasuries.

Ep6: Part2: Conversation with Tyler Goodspeed Dec 13, 2022

In the next part of this conversation Joe and Eric probe Tyler for his thoughts on current economic challenges. Specifically, the show looks at how to unwind the regulatory hurdles put in place by the current administration. Tyler also explores the problems with the workforce participation rate and whether extending federal supplemental unemployment benefits kept people out of the workforce. Additionally, we explore how inflation caused declines in real wages and impacts on the US consumer.

Ep6: Part1: Conversation with Tyler Goodspeed Dec 13, 2022

Tyler Goodspeed is the guest for the next three episodes with Joe and Eric. Tyler served on the Council of Economic Advisors and is currently at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University. He recently spent time in the UK advising Liz Truss, the shortest serving Prime Minister in U.K. history. Tyler then shared an insider perspective on why her policy rollouts did not go as well as they could have, and the experiences he had in Great Britain with the think tank culture of London.

Ep5: Part2: Conversation with Mark Paoletta Nov 28, 2022

This episode covers how the Congress can investigate the FTX scandal, the need to learn what happened with the botched and tragic pullout from Afghanistan, and how to begin the examination of the government’s actions regarding Covid-19. The best ways to conduct an examination of public health mistakes of the last few years include examination of free speech suppression; the conduct of large bureaucracies; the lockdown of schools, and inappropriate influence by outside groups. Mark’s experience and advice on proper oversight is a must see.

Ep5: Part3: Conversation with Mark Paoletta Nov 16, 2022

This episode explores the enormous historical figure that is Justice Clarence Thomas. Insights on his story are detailed in a discussion about the book Mark co-wrote/edited, Created Equal: Clarence Thomas in His Own Words, which discusses Justice Thomas’s early life surviving the deepest of challenges of poverty. We also explored Justice Thomas’s experience being taught by Irish nuns and the profound and systemic racism he experienced growing up in the deep south.

Ep5: Part1: Conversation with Mark Paoletta Nov 16, 2022

Over the next three episodes Joe and Eric speak with Mark Paoletta, a distinguished attorney in Washington, a former oversight lawyer on Capitol Hill, and the editor/author of the book Created Equal: Clarence Thomas in his Own Words. This episode explores how the new Republican House majority should conduct oversight. The discussion centered on Mark’s experience investigating the malfeasance at Enron, WorldCom, and Global Crossing, as well as his thoughts on how Congress can inform the public and itself about fraud and abuse in the private sector and within the executive branch. This interview was recorded in early November 2022 just after the new majority was declared in the House of Representatives.

Ep4: Part3: Conversation with Charley Hooper Oct 26, 2022

In part three of this discussion with Charley Hooper, FDA expert and former NASA official, they examine the legacy of FDA’s its “white hat” reputation and how it’s not as deserved as it once was. In addition, they discuss the chilling effect new legislation will have on new cancer treatments, as well as the punitive effect this will have on generic drugs, patients in need of drugs for rare disorders, and testing already approved drugs to combat other diseases.

Ep4: Part2: Conversation with Charley Hooper Oct 26, 2022

Joe and Eric continue their discussion with Charley. The conversation explores how drugmakers approach the market and fund new research. They highlight the explicit ways the IRA will undermine the delicate development process for life prolonging and life saving drugs. *This episode aired October 2022*

Ep4: Part1: Conversation with Charley Hooper Oct 26, 2022

Joe and Eric speak with Charley Hooper, author of the book Should the FDA Reject Itself? Part one of their discussion explores the likely impact of the Inflation Reduction Act and its drug pricing provisions, which include: overall drug production, the total impact on inflation, as well as the irony of prices actually going up as a result. *Episode aired Oct 26, 2022*

Ep3: Part3: Conversation with Art Kleinschmidt Oct 06, 2022

In the third episode of this three-part discussion, Art shares details on his latest effort to help improve substance abuse treatment in the US. He began a nonprofit called the “Recovery Now” foundation. They also review current public policies branded as “harm reduction.” During this administration these measures are normalizing dependency and drug use, which in his view is the most effective way to break down the family unit. They also discuss how meth labs have been put out of business by importation of more legal and powerful drugs manufactured south of the border. They conclude discussion about how to get help for those who need it by calling 800-662-4357 *Episode aired October 26, 2022*

Ep3: Part2: Conversation with Art Kleinschmidt Oct 06, 2022

In the second part of their three-part discussion, the discussion begins with what Art saw on his trip (August of 2022) to the southern border. Art shares how drug cartels monitor and control the border, use migrants who can’t afford the $6000 fee coyotes charge to smuggle them across the US, and the sophisticated tactics the cartels use to evade US border patrol. Art also unmasks the fallacy of public distribution of “test strips” and buddy system use stating flatly that “there is no safe way to consume outside a hospital.” Because the euphoric effect of the drug diminishes before exiting the human body, users would be tempted to consume more while actual levels of the opioid are still in the system leading to tragic overdoses. He also confirms with previous podcast Casey Mulligan’s data on the number of opioid overdose deaths in the US is 108,000 which is up from the approximate death toll under President Trump. For help with substance abuse call 800-662-4357 *Episode originally aired October 6, 2022*

Ep3: Part1: Conversation with Art Kleinschmidt Oct 06, 2022

This episode tackles one of the most important public policy issues facing the US today. Joe and Eric hold a three-part discussion with their guest Art Kleinschmidt, where they review the current opioid crisis, discuss what public policy and recovery look like, and explore Art’s story of how he lived as a recovering user himself. The following three episodes take place in September of 2022, and all three include information to share if you or someone you know is in need of help with a substance abuse addiction. The hotline number to find help near you: 800-662-4357. *Episode originally aired October 26, 2022*

Ep2: Part 2: Conversation with Casey Mulligan, PhD Jul 21, 2022

In a wide-ranging discussion, the boys explore the cause-and-effect of both the legal and illegal opioid epidemic. The role of an unsecured southern border has on the drug trade, the long-lasting impact of covid shutdowns on children and American health productivity, and current threats from inflation and possibility of recession. *Episode originally aired July 21, 2022*

Ep2: Part 1: Conversation with Casey Mulligan, PhD Jul 21, 2022

The boys discuss the work and background of PhD economist, and University of Chicago's own, Casey Mulligan. Part one looks into how as a member of President Trump Counsel of Economic Advisors (CEA) informed and updated the president on socialism, wages, and the historic deregulatory effort his administration was undertaking. *Episode originally aired July 21, 2022

Ep1: Part 3: Conversation with Brian Blase Jun 03, 2022

In the final part of their conversation, the boys discuss with Brian how the IRS was pressured into changing rules to accommodate what was known as “the family glitch,” and the origins of the “why and how” of Paragon Health was created. Paragon is Brian’s response to the vacuum in public policy of market-based ideas in healthcare policy. His experience has assembled a team to assist a grassroots think tank to feed and share with state leaders ideas for better public health policy. *This episode originally aired Jun 3, 2022*

Ep1: Part 2: Conversation with Brian Blase Jun 03, 2022

In reviewing the history of health efforts under President Trump, Joe and Eric continue their talk with Brian exploring what emerged from the ashes of the failed “repeal and replace” legislative efforts on Capitol Hill. Through executive orders and Brian’s hard work at NEC, President Trump detailed a three part agenda: Association Health Plans; 2. short duration health insurance; 3. Health reimbursement accounts. These ideas became the center of health reform for conservatives even after Associated Health Plans were struck down by a federal court. *This episode originally aired Jun 3, 2022*

Ep1: Part 1: Conversation with Brian Blase Jun 03, 2022

TRAILER May 30, 2022

Welcome to DC EKG where Joe and Eric explore and explain “the what and why” of Washington. Through thoughtful interviews with inside the room experts, they shine a light on the black box of DC and break down healthcare issues and policy areas that shape healthcare.

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