Heard On West Exec Podcast

Latest Episodes:

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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

Show notes

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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