Episodes

  • S2E30: Season 2 Finale: Brian's Reflections on 2 Years of Conversations with You
    Jan 25 2025
    Brian wraps up season 2 with his reflections on the topics covered over the past year and some memorable interviews with his guests over the past 2 years. Brian reviews critical topics that this podcast discussed long before they were mainstream topics, proving how this show keeps listeners ahead of the headlines, giving them a competitive advantage in planning for their future.

    Listen to this show, then give us your perspective.

    Question for Brian? Email: info@brianjmatos.com or DM on X @BrianJMatos or find Brian on your favorite social media platform.

    Find more episodes like this at our show website: http://www.brianjmatos.com/ and subscribe to the YouTube channel for the latest clips and exclusive content: www.youtube.com/@brianjmatospodcast

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    26 mins
  • S2E29: Rethinking Money, Business and Economics w/ Phillip Ullmann
    Jan 20 2025

    Brian interviews Phillip Ullmann, a self-described social business entrepreneur, with a track record of building disruptive business models that deliver value – measured as much by people, communities, and nature as by financial assets.

    In this conversation, Phillip shares his journey from transforming a family manufacturing business to exploring the concept of social enterprise. He discusses the challenges of implementing social enterprises in a profit-driven world and emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift in business practices. Ullmann advocates for rethinking money and economics, promoting a system that prioritizes community needs and the flow of resources. He highlights the growing cynicism in the business community and the importance of creating a more equitable and sustainable economic model. In this conversation, Phillip discusses the evolution of money, its current meaninglessness, and the need for a systemic change in our economic and social structures. He emphasizes the importance of relationships and purpose over profit, advocating for a new model of business that prioritizes meaningful work and community care. Ullmann also highlights the inevitability of a systemic collapse in the current banking model and the necessity for a reset that focuses on meeting people's needs.

    To learn more about Phillip and his work:

    • Websites: https://www.themannajourney.com/ & https://www.phillipullmann.com/my-story
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillipullmann/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Phillip-Ullmann-Covenant-Advisory-102436989341855
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_manna_journey?igsh=MW9la3djaWZhbG5mMA==
    • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@phillip_ullmann
    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWqPrdvhmxW1_0JEcYu21hA
    • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6EF8BHh9gYrZhz5NaZtAax

    Find more episodes like this at http://www.brianjmatos.com/

    Question for Brian? Email: info@brianjmatos.com or DM on Twitter @BrianJMatos

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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • S2E28: The Complexities of Ceasefire Deals with Marika Sosnowski
    Dec 24 2024
    Brian explores the legal and practical concepts of ceasefire deals with Marika Sosnowski, an Australian-qualified lawyer, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Melbourne Law School and a Research Associate at the German Institute for Global and Area Studies (GIGA) in Hamburg. She works as a legal anthropologist with primary research interests in the fields of critical security studies (mainly ceasefires), local/rebel governance and legal systems, particularly issues around citizenship and belonging. In this conversation, Marika Sosnowski discusses the complexities of ceasefires, their definitions, historical context, and implications for governance in conflict zones. She emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of the ceasefire concept, the extra-ordinary challenges in negotiating them, and the importance of considering the local dynamics and consequences of these agreements. The discussion also highlights the role of governance structures post-ceasefire and the unintended consequences that can arise from attempts to restore order. Marika discusses the complexities of implementing ceasefires in conflict zones, emphasizing the lack of sanctions for breaking them and the often ineffective monitoring mechanisms. Brian and Marika explore the implications of ceasefires on peace agreements, the role of local leaders, and the impact of age and experience on negotiation. The discussion also delves into the resilience of individuals in conflict, the importance of empathy in negotiations, and the misconceptions surrounding ceasefires and their effects on communities. Marika's academic work has been published in Citizenship Studies, International Studies Quarterly, the Leiden Journal of International Law and Civil Wars among others. Her first book Redefining Ceasefires: Wartime Order and Statebuilding in Syria came out in June 2023 with Cambridge University Press. For this book, and other associated work, she was unanimously awarded the University of Melbourne's prestigious 2024 Woodward Medal in Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences. She has also published a range of more public-facing work including for AllegraLab, al Jumhuriya, Middle East Eye, the Lieber Institute West Point, The Conversation, The Atlantic Council and the Washington Institute. To learn more about Marika and her work: Book: Redefining Ceasefires: Wartime Order and Statebuilding in Syria (Amazon link for Kindle readers)Websites: https://marikasosnowski.com/ and https://law.unimelb.edu.au/about/staff/marika-sosnowskiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marika-sosnowski-b1500624/?originalSubdomain=au Find more episodes like this at http://www.brianjmatos.com/ Question for Brian? Email: info@brianjmatos.com or DM on Twitter @BrianJMatos
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • S2E27: Navigating the Immigrant Experience w/ Raul Lomeli-Azoubel
    Dec 16 2024

    Brian interviews Raul Lomeli-Azoubel, Co-Founder, Chairman & Chief Community Officer at Welcome Tech, Inc., the “digital Ellis Island” and future global platform for immigration.

    Welcome Tech is a venture funded mobile tech platform helping immigrant communities connect to opportunity including optimal information, products and services they need to succeed in a new country. Currently focused on the U.S. Hispanic community, the largest immigrant community in the world, through its community platform SABEResPODER® (SEP).

    Prior to launching Welcome Tech, Raúl was Vice President of Diverse Growth Segments at Wells Fargo; he has also served as Press and Public Affairs Attaché for the Consulate General of Mexico in Los Angeles, and as Research Director for the Program on Mexico at UCLA.

    Raul is an avid writer and has co-authored a book on financial aid for higher education, over 50 published news articles, and the lead author of 18 booklets on financial services, the health care system, and higher education—with over nine million copies distributed nationwide.

    In this episode, Raul shares his journey as a child of migrant farm workers and discusses the mission of Welcome Tech. Brian and Raul reflect on the historical context of U.S. immigration policy, the changing perceptions of immigrants, and the challenges faced by undocumented individuals. The discussion also covers the importance of cultural integration, community support, and the complexities of navigating healthcare and education systems for immigrants. In this conversation, Raul Lomeli-Azoubel discusses the various challenges and opportunities faced by immigrants in the U.S., focusing on healthcare, education, housing, and entrepreneurship. He emphasizes the importance of education in navigating the U.S. healthcare system, understanding the education system for children, and the entrepreneurial spirit within immigrant communities. The conversation also addresses common misconceptions about immigrants and the need for better integration policies.

    To learn more about Raul and his work:

    • Website: https://welcome.tech/
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lomeli/
    • X: https://x.com/lomeli_azoubel
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lomeliazoubel/

    Find more episodes like this at http://www.brianjmatos.com/

    Question for Brian? Email: info@brianjmatos.com or DM on Twitter @BrianJMatos

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    1 hr
  • S2E26: The Past, Present and Future of Kashmir with Dr. Mehmood Hussain
    Dec 4 2024

    Brian speaks with Dr. Mehmood Hussain to discuss his authorship on the Kashmir conflict and the concept of "Responsibility to Protect" (R2P). Dr. Hussain is an Assistant Professor and Coordinator of the Department of International Relations at the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Muzaffarabad, Pakistan. His writings have appeared in the Chinese Political Science Review, East Asia Journal, Journal of Globalization Studies, Asian Journal of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies, Regional Studies, and Central Asia Journal. Dr. Hhussain earned his doctorate in International Relations from the School of International & Public Affairs, Jilin University China. Since 2018, he has been researching China’s relations with Pakistan, and the Kashmiri Conflict among other topics.

    In this conversation, Dr. Mehmood Hussain provides a comprehensive overview of the Kashmir conflict, tracing its historical roots from 1947 to the present day. He discusses the implications of recent political changes in India, particularly under Narendra Modi's government, and the impact of these changes on the demographics and governance of Kashmir. The conversation also explores the role of the international community, including the United Nations, in addressing human rights violations in the region, as well as China's growing influence in South Asia. Dr. Hussain emphasizes the need for dialogue and resolution between India and Pakistan, while highlighting the cultural ties that exist between the people of both nations.

    To learn more about Dr. Hussain and his work:

    • Website: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mehmood-Hussain
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mehmood-hussain-ba70b6a4/?originalSubdomain=pk

    Find more episodes like this at http://www.brianjmatos.com/

    Question for Brian? Email: info@brianjmatos.com or DM on Twitter @BrianJMatos

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    1 hr
  • S2E25: Understanding Haiti: Misconceptions and Realities with Journalist, Fritznel Octave
    Nov 19 2024

    Brian interviews Fritznel Octave, an award-winning journalist with over 25 years of experience covering Haitian news, culture, politics, economics and social justice. He serves as Haiti Editor for The Haitian Times online newspaper. An author, speaker and coach, Fritznel has committed his life to impactful storytelling and amplifying marginalized voices.

    His latest book, "Haiti Between Pestilence And Hope," offers readers a pathway to understand Haiti’s challenges and triumphs. With an inspiring vision, Fritznel encourages Haitians to draw strength from the ideals of the Haitian Revolution to create a brighter, safer future. The book aims to connect readers with Haiti's contemporary political, cultural, and socioeconomic policies.

    In this conversation, Fritznel Octave discusses the common misconceptions about Haiti, emphasizing the country's rich resources and the historical significance of its revolution. He explores the complex relationship between Haiti and the United States, regional geopolitical dynamics in the broader Caribbean, and the current internal political landscape marked by instability and gang control. Octave also addresses the implications of international intervention and expresses hope for a collective effort among Haitians to forge a better future.

    To learn more about Fritznel Octave and his work:

    • Book: Haiti Between Pestilence and Hope: The Progressive Ideals from the Revolution of 1804 Set the Pace
    • The Haitian Times: https://haitiantimes.com/author/fritznel-octave/
    • Personal Website: https://www.fritzneldoctave.com/
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fritzneloctave/
    • X: https://x.com/foctave1
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fmnkoctave/

    Find more episodes like this at http://www.brianjmatos.com/

    Question for Brian? Email: info@brianjmatos.com or DM on Twitter @BrianJMatos

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • S2E24: How Climate Change Impacts Mental Health in Africa & Beyond w/ Svetlana Onye
    Nov 10 2024

    Brian speaks with Svetlana Chigozie Onye, a climate justice advocate, writer, journalist, and researcher.

    In this conversation, Svetlana and Brian discuss the critical intersection of mental health and climate change, particularly in the context of African nations. She highlights the unique challenges faced by African countries, including the disproportionate impact of climate change despite low emissions, the role of transnational companies in resource extraction, and the need for better media coverage of these issues. Svetlana emphasizes the importance of integrating mental health into climate policies and the necessity for climate finance to address healthcare and infrastructure. She also shares inspiring stories of community-based initiatives and the power of storytelling in raising awareness and fostering change.

    Svetlana is the Project Lead for the Eco-Anxiety Africa Project, which investigates the mental health impact of climate change across Africa and the necessary responses and adaptations communities need.

    Her journalistic work focuses on the impact of natural resource extraction in communities in the "global south". Her published work concerning climate justice, social justice, and culture can be found in publications such as Shado Mag, SCREENSHOT, (Re)imagining Peace + Justice, Atwood Magazine, The Eco-Anxiety Africa Project, and Race Equality Matters.

    Her literary work earned her selection into the Writers on the Rise Program, created by the Black British Book Festival and Pan MacMillan. She is also part of the UK Youth Climate Coalition, a TuWezeshe Young Women’s Leadership Fellow, and the founder of Not Actually Radical, an online educational platform that seeks to use accessible education as a tool of liberation across the diaspora.

    To learn more about Svetlana:

    • Website: https://sustyvibes.org/
    • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/svetlana-chigozie-onye-sanya-785463157
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storyofsvetlana/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/svetlana.onye.7/?locale=en_GB

    Find more episodes like this at http://www.brianjmatos.com/

    Question for Brian? Email: info@brianjmatos.com or DM on Twitter @BrianJMatos

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    54 mins
  • S2E23: Pathways to an Environmentally Sustainable Future w/ Demitri Fierro
    Oct 31 2024

    Brian is joined by Demitri Fierro, a writer and a Sustainability and Stakeholder Strategist. He has published more than 100 articles to date on The Cool Down, where he is an avid contributor on subjects like electric vehicle adoption, wildlife conservation and climate tech.

    Demitri recently earned an MBA in Sustainable Solutions from Presidio Graduate School in San Francisco. For the last two years, he has served as Program Manager for the Consultancy Shadowing Program, as well as sustainability consultant for a variety of clients. Determined to apply his background to bring sustainable solutions to storytelling and media, he is a contributor for the Environmental Media Association in Los Angeles.

    In this conversation, Demitri Fierro shares his journey into the field of sustainability, highlighting his educational background and experiences that shaped his passion for environmental issues. He discusses California's pioneering initiatives in sustainability, the response of the business community to these initiatives, and the growing engagement of youth in climate issues. The conversation also delves into the challenges and progress surrounding electric vehicle adoption and the urgent need for action in addressing climate change. Brian and Demitri discuss the importance of individual actions, the role of youth in driving climate action, and the challenges posed by international dynamics in the climate tech sector. The conversation emphasizes the need for effective policy, emerging technologies, and the significance of listening to diverse perspectives to foster collective action against climate issues.

    To learn more about Demitri and his work:

    • Bio: https://sustainablebrands.com/is/demitri-fierro
    • The Cool Down: https://www.thecooldown.com/
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/demitri-fierro-mba-issp-sea-a98542124/

    Find more episodes like this at http://www.brianjmatos.com/

    Question for Brian? Email: info@brianjmatos.com or DM on Twitter @BrianJMatos

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    1 hr and 3 mins