Tag: #anythingbutpolitics
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Mayor Jay Ruais: Early Lessons In Service And Second Chances
A premature birth, 78 days in the NICU, and a community that showed up—that’s where our conversation with Mayor Jay Ruais begins. From a young dad’s sleepless nights to a mayor tackling homelessness, addiction, public safety, and affordable housing, Jay connects personal experience to public leadership. He reflects on his own recovery and the decade-long Read more
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From Harley Wrenches To House Gavel: Sherm Packard’s Journey
What does it take to lead a 400-member citizen legislature through a pandemic and a razor-thin majority—and still pass a budget by voice vote? Speaker Sherm Packard joins us to share the craft of leadership, the New Hampshire roots that shaped him, and how to disagree without being disagreeable. From “drive-in” sessions during January 6 Read more
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How Sports, Family, And Service Shaped A Candidate’s Heart
In this episode, Stefany Shaheen joins us to talk about teamwork, family, and the quiet grit it takes to keep showing up. From captaining high school teams to coaching her daughter and cheering her son at Duke, she’s learned that the best victories are shared—and that resilience is built one small act at a time.She Read more
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Bees, Donuts, And A State Rep’s Life
A $2 car registration and a clerk’s comment sent Greg Hill on an unlikely path—seven terms in the New Hampshire House, deep committee work, and a front-row seat to how a volunteer legislature runs. From there, the talk winds through his other worlds—beekeeping, sailing, and mini donuts—and what each taught him about patience, process, and Read more
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Beyond the Stethoscope: Dr Jonathan Ballard
Dr. Jonathan Ballard takes us on a fascinating journey from his childhood on a Kentucky farm to his current role as New Hampshire’s Chief Medical Officer. Growing up in Bardstown—the bourbon capital of the world—Ballard worked at his father’s sawmill and raised white cattle to distinguish them from his father’s black Angus herd. This early Read more
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From French Roots to Granite Roots: Karen Liot Hill
Meet Karen Liot Hill, whose life reflects a uniquely American journey with a French twist. Born in Brittany to an American mother and French father, she grew up on Long Island before finding her calling in New Hampshire, where she now serves on the state’s Executive Council. As the oldest of six in a blended Read more
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The Farmer-Senator: How Dan Innis Balances Academia, Agriculture, and Public Service
What happens when academic expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and agricultural passion converge in one person? Senator Dan Innis embodies this rare mix, and his story goes far beyond politics. From Ohio State professor to UNH dean, he spearheaded the creation of Paul College—doubling business school enrollment without a dime of state funding. In Portsmouth, his entrepreneurial Read more