Heard On West Exec Podcast

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Latest Episodes:

(Ep 16) Exploring the National Economic Council with Brittany Baker Nov 25, 2024

Former NEC Deputy Chief of Staff Brittany Baker joins Irv Dennis to explore the intricacies of the National Economic Council, the economic policy council at the White House. Sharing her journey from a small Alabama town to the White House, Brittany delves into her roles and challenges at the NEC, providing insights on deregulation, policy coordination, and the transition between administrations. This episode offers a unique glimpse into the dynamic world of economic policymaking and public service, highlighting the transformative impact of government work on American lives.

(Ep 15) Navigating Political Challenges in the White House with Brian Jack Nov 04, 2024

Brian Jack shares his journey from the 2016 campaign trail to serving as White House Political Director, highlighting the importance of political and policy expertise with Sarah Huckabee Sanders. He discusses the intricacies of campaign strategies, compliance challenges with the Hatch Act, and maintaining relationships with political entities. Jack also emphasizes how President Trump's active involvement in congressional races and policy focus influenced political dynamics. This episode delves into the rewarding aspects of public service, offering valuable insights for aspiring political professionals.

Learn More About The Executive Branch for America: https://eba.americancornerstone.org/

(Ep 14) Dr. Ben Carson Discusses American Cornerstone Institute's Mission and Programs Oct 28, 2024

Dive into this episode of Heard on West Exec as Sarah Huckabee Sanders sit down with Dr. Ben Carson, focusing on the American Cornerstone Institute and its mission to uphold foundational principles like faith, liberty, and community. Dr. Carson discusses the importance of understanding government structures through the Executive Branch for America program and the educational initiative, Little Patriots, which instills American values in children. This conversation highlights the need for public service engagement and the preservation of fundamental freedoms in today's society.

Learn More About The Executive Branch for America: https://eba.americancornerstone.org/

(Ep 13) White House Public Liaison Office Oct 21, 2024

Discover the intricacies of working in the executive branch with Alex Flemister, former White House Public Liaison. Host Irv Dennis discuss the challenges and triumphs of government service. The episode delves into the pivotal role of the Office of Public Liaison in shaping and communicating presidential policy, while sharing heartwarming anecdotes and insights into the daily life at the White House. Engage with tales of impactful networking and transitions to the private sector, highlighting the connections forged and the critical role of public service.

(Ep 12) Everyone wants to be a Communications Pro, but What Does it Really Take, with Brad Bishop Oct 14, 2024

Brad Bishop joins the podcast this week to talk about his extensive experience in the executive branch of the U.S. government. Brad discusses his roles at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the White House, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). He highlights the differences between these roles, emphasizing the importance of understanding policy for effective communication. The conversation also delves into the interagency process from the White House and agency perspective, the significance of the President's guidance, and the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. You won’t want to miss Brad’s insights and valuable advice for aspiring communications professionals in this episode.

(Ep 11) ACI’s Executive Branch for America Program: Preparing Young Conservative Leaders for Public Service Oct 07, 2024

In this episode of the "Heard on West Exec,” host Irv Dennis, CFO of the American Cornerstone Institute (ACI) and former CFO of HUD, discusses his experiences in the executive branch and the significance of understanding government operations. He is joined by HL McCullough, an intern at ACI and a student at Pepperdine University, who shares his journey and aspirations for public service. The conversation centers on the ACI's Executive Branch of America (EBA) program, which provides insights into the workings of the executive branch, the budgetary process, and the importance of public service.

(Ep 10) Navigating Financial Reform in Government with Irv Dennis Sep 30, 2024

In this episode of "Heard on West Exec,” host Evelyn Lim from the American Cornerstone Institute (ACI) speaks with Irv Dennis, former CFO of the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Irv, who spent 38 years at Ernst and Young, shares his experience addressing HUD's financial challenges. They discuss some of the themes in Irv’s book, “Transforming a Federal Agency: Management Lessons from HUD’s Financial Reconstruction” such as the agency's significant financial weaknesses, the strategies he implemented to improve governance, and the importance of leadership and financial discipline. Irv discusses the benefits of integrating private sector expertise into government roles which lead to better efficiency and more accountability.

(Ep 9) Inside HUD: Navigating Regulations and Public Service Challenges Sep 23, 2024

Former HUD General Counsel Paul Compton joins Irv Dennis to delve into the complexities of the regulatory environment at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). They discuss the intricacies of rule-making, the challenges of interagency cooperation, and the significance of the confirmation process. Compton also reflects on the dynamic and diverse nature of HUD's mission, the importance of networking, and the invaluable insights gained from public service. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of America’s key federal agencies and explores the rewarding experiences of working in the executive branch.

(Ep 8) Masterclass in Government Relationships: Building Networks Across Agencies Sep 16, 2024

Join host Irv Dennis along with Reid Wilson as they explore the intricacies of public service in the executive branch. Irv, former CFO at HUD, and Reid, former special assistant to Secretary Ben Carson, share their journeys, highlighting the dynamic nature of political appointments, the essential role of interagency collaboration, and the rewarding aspects of serving the American public. Reid's transition to legislative roles in Congress reveals how foundational experiences at HUD influence current work. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone considering a career in public service. Subscribe for more engaging discussions on life in government.

(Ep 7) Transition, Beachhead, and Other Insights with Chad Wolf Sep 09, 2024

Evelyn Lim welcomes Chad Wolf, former Acting Secretary of Homeland Security, to discuss his career path from Capitol Hill to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and then leading the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). They delve into the challenges and opportunities of setting up TSA post-9/11, managing a large and diverse department, and forming effective leadership teams. Wolf gives insights into just what transition and beachhead teams are and do. Listen in for his advice for those aspiring to join the federal executive branch.

(Ep 6) Exploring DHS Operations and Challenges with Troy Edgar Sep 03, 2024

In this episode of Heard on West Exec, host Irv Dennis has a dynamic conversation with Troy Edgar, former CFO of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Irv and Troy dive deep into the complexities of managing a vast organization like DHS, which employs over 280,000 people and has a $90 billion budget.

From navigating the intricacies of federal budgeting to managing multiple DHS components such as the Coast Guard, Secret Service, and TSA, Troy provides an insider's look into the role and responsibilities of DHS’s CFO. He also shares riveting anecdotes from his time in public service, including an unexpected adventure exploring tunnels at the U.S.-Mexico border. This episode highlights how private sector experience can substantially benefit public service roles, and the importance of seamless coordination between the executive interagency and even Congress.

(Ep 5) Navigating NASA: Challenges and Triumphs with Gabe Sheman Aug 26, 2024

Join Irv Dennis from the American Cornerstone Institute as he sits down with Gabe Sherman, former Chief of Staff of NASA. They discuss the inner workings of NASA, its complex missions, and its crucial partnerships with commercial and international entities to fulfill its mission of returning to the moon. The episode delves into the significance of the Artemis program, the intricacies of space diplomacy, and the challenges faced within the executive branch. Gain insights into the future of space exploration and the pivotal role NASA plays on a global scale.

Acronyms: NASA: National Aeronautics and Space Administration OMB: Office of Management and Budget

(Ep 4) Integrity and Public Service with Kash Patel Aug 19, 2024

Andrew Hughes, CEO of the American Cornerstone Institute, speaks with Kash Patel about his varied career in the executive branch. From his start as a public defender to roles at the Department of Justice, Congressional staffer, and as Chief of Staff at the Department of Defense, Patel shares insights on government corruption, effective leadership, and the importance of service. They discuss the mainstream media's impact on public trust, the need for decentralizing federal agencies, and just what West Exec is anyway. Tune in for a candid discussion on making a difference in public service.

Acronyms: JSOC: Joint Special Operations Command HUD: Housing and Urban Development DOE: Department of Energy DOD: Department of Defense DOJ: Department of Justice

Learn More About The Executive Branch for America: https://eba.americancornerstone.org/

(Ep 3) Lessons Learned in Housing Policy at HUD with Seth Appleton Aug 12, 2024

In this episode, host Todd Thurman from the American Cornerstone Institute's Executive Branch of America program interviews Seth Appleton, former Assistant Secretary at HUD. Seth shares his career transition from working in Congress as Chief of Staff to Assistant Secretary at HUD, detailing the challenges and lessons learned, particularly regarding interagency collaboration. He emphasizes the importance of networking and the satisfaction derived from seeing the real-world impact of government programs. From disaster recovery to pandemic, he discusses some of the inner workings of interagency response and how the federal government works for the American people in an emergency.

Acronyms: CFPB: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau HUD: Department of Housing and Urban Development FEMA: Federal Emergency Management Agency OMB: Office of Management and Budget RESPA: Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act SBA: Small Business Administration VA: Department of Veterans Affairs USDA: US Department of Agriculture

Learn More About The Executive Branch for America: https://eba.americancornerstone.org/

(Ep 2) Behind the Scenes: Richard Grenell's Journey Through U.S. Diplomacy Aug 05, 2024

Join Evelyn Lim as she talks with Ambassador Richard Grenell about his distinguished career in the executive branch. From his pivotal role as the spokesman at the UN to being the US Ambassador to Germany and Acting Director of National Intelligence, Grenell shares insightful lessons on diplomacy, implementing reforms, and representing America. Discover his views on the bureaucracy, his approach to leadership, and his advice for those aspiring to enter public service. Dive into an engaging discussion about the importance of clear policies, balanced governance, and fearless public service.

Richard Grenell

Professional History: Rick Grenell has had a distinguished career in the executive branch, starting with his role in 2001 as the spokesman for the U.S. mission to the United Nations. He has worked with four different U.S. ambassadors to the UN and later served in the Trump campaign in 2016.
Achievements: Grenell's contributions include serving as the U.S. Ambassador to Germany and later as the Acting Director of National Intelligence, where he implemented critical reforms.
Current Position: He is currently in the private sector.

Learn More About The Executive Branch for America: https://eba.americancornerstone.org/

(Ep 1) Behind the Scenes with Sean Spicer, former White House Press Secretary Jul 27, 2024

Sean Spicer joins Irv Dennis on the Heard on the West Exec podcast to discuss his journey in White House communications, emphasizing the dynamic complexity of the role. Sean shares experiences from his tenure as White House Press Secretary under President Trump, offering insights into daily communication strategies, dealing with the press, and tips on network-building in Washington, DC. Hear Sean’s advice for aspiring communications professionals and a memorable story involving the New England Patriots. Tune in for an insider’s look at White House communications and political strategy.

Sean Spicer:

Sean Spicer is a seasoned communications expert and former White House Press Secretary and White House Communications Director under President Trump in 2017. Spicer has a notable history in political communications, having worked with the Republican National Committee and served in the Bush administration. He is also an accomplished author, with four books to his name, and currently hosts "The Sean Spicer Show" podcast.

Learn More About The Executive Branch for America: https://eba.americancornerstone.org/

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