At the Square artwork

At the Square

97 episodes - English - Latest episode: 5 months ago - ★★★★ - 19 ratings

At the Square is American Public Square at Jewell's (APS) podcast channel. You'll find our series 'Both Sides', Student podcast episodes, and live event recordings. At the Square podcasts cover topics that correspond to APS programs and events while providing context and additional information on the issues. Episodes feature fact-based, civil conversations between experts and APS staff members.

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Episodes

Special Episode: David Axelrod & Michael Steele

November 28, 2023 23:47 - 28 minutes - 16.4 MB

American Public Square at Jewell is thrilled to be hosting its annual premier event, Evening at the Square, on December 4th at the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art. This year’s event will feature a conversation between two renowned political experts, David Axelrod and Michael Steele. David Axelrod is a political strategist, commentator, and former chief strategist and senior advisor to President Barack Obama; he was the founding director of the University of Chicago’s non-partisan Institute of Po...

Both Sides: Exploring Gender & Identities

September 19, 2023 22:26 - 36 minutes - 50 MB

In this episode of Both Sides, Allan and Mike discuss Gender & Identities in relation to American Public Square's upcoming program 'Exploring Gender & Identities' taking place at Johnson County Community College on September 26th at 5:30PM. The program is hosted in partnership with the Johnson County Library and Kansas City PBS. Sharing from their point of view, Allan & Mike discuss the culture war(s) in America, trans rights, access to healthcare for the LGBTQ+ community, and how this dif...

So What, Now What: Reparations in KC

July 17, 2023 16:27 - 26 minutes - 37.4 MB

On June 7th, 2023, American Public Square at Jewell hosted a Signature Event, Reparations in KC, at University Academy in partnership with Kansas City PBS. The live recording of this event is available on the At the Square feed, the same place you found THIS episode, for anyone desiring to listen back. In effort to continue the conversation, American Public Square is launching this new series So What, Now What to provide a platform for the questions and subtopics that arise from our Signat...

Playback: Reparations in KC

June 21, 2023 14:00 - 53 minutes - 73.6 MB

  This is an At the Square Playback episode featuring the live recording of Reparations in KC, an American Public Square at Jewell panel discussion recorded live at University Academy on June 7th, 2023 in partnership with Kansas City PBS. In an engaging discussion, panelists explored the complicated issue of reparations and delved into:   examples of other cities that have made reparations to Black residents,  historic and economic considerations,  and the impact Reparations may have ...

Both Sides: Reparations in KC

May 31, 2023 18:39 - 31 minutes - 43.9 MB

At the Square is American Public Square at Jewell's podcast channel. You'll find Both Sides episodes, playbacks of Signature Programs, and our latest podcast offering, a reactionary series aimed at exploring the questions and subtopics that arise from APS Signature Programs. In this Both Sides episode, Allan and Mike discuss the complicated topic of Reparations in connection to American Public Square at Jewell’s upcoming Signature Program ‘Reparations in KC’ presented in partnership with K...

Special Episode: Robert Costa

November 01, 2022 13:30 - 31 minutes - 42.6 MB

Mark your calendars for APS’ biggest event of the year, Evening at the Square! This year's event will happen on November 29th and will feature today’s special podcast guest Robert Costa. Don't miss this unique opportunity to share a room with the best-selling author and journalist who has extensively covered historic events, including the Trump-Biden presidential transition and the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Episode #74: Back to School Special

September 05, 2022 13:30 - 1 hour - 90.4 MB

Allan and Tricia are joined by two special guests who each in their own way play a role in the education landscape in Missouri. First up is Representative Chuck Bayse!  Rep.Basye, a Republican, represents parts of Boone, Howard, Cooper and Randolph Counties (District 47) in the Missouri House of Representatives. In the second part of this episode we welcome Jason Roberts!  Jason is president of the Kansas City Federation of Teachers and School related personnel.

Episode #73: Guns in Public Places

August 16, 2022 21:58 - 40 minutes - 56.3 MB

Most citizens deplore the mass gun violence that is currently plaguing our nation.  However, Second Amendment advocates fear their rights could be limited if laws addressing guns are changed.  What can be done to mitigate the increasing prevalence of gun violence in American society?  On this Episode of Both Sides, Allan and Mike are joined by Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas to discuss guns in public places.   

Episode #72: Words Create Worlds

August 02, 2022 02:22 - 56 minutes - 77.5 MB

On this Episode Mike is joined by APS executive director Claire Bishop as they talk with Joe Bednar, registered lobbyist and attorney with Spencer Fane. Joe served nearly seven years as Chief Legal Counsel to the late Governor Mel Carnahan and Governor Roger B. Wilson.  He also served as Special Counsel to former Governor Robert Lee Holden.  

Episode #71-The Economics of Roe v. Wade

July 12, 2022 13:09 - 53 minutes - 73.5 MB

On this episode, we are joined by applied economist Dr. David Slusky to talk the economics of Roe v. Wade.   

Episode #70: Sunrise Movement

June 28, 2022 14:01 - 54 minutes - 75.1 MB

We will take several episodes of the podcast to explore organizations in our city that are working in the climate or environmental space. On this episode Allan and Mike visit with Mahreen and Michael of the Sunrise Movement in Kansas City.  The Kansas City hub of Sunrise is building a movement of young people across race and class to take an intersectional focus on the climate crisis.  

Episode #69: Guns in America

May 31, 2022 14:00 - 38 minutes - 53 MB

On this episode of both sides Allan and Mike discuss the mass shootings in both Bufflao and Texas. 

Episode #68: Uniquely Stupid Democracy...

April 28, 2022 19:58 - 35 minutes - 49.1 MB

On this episode of Both Sides Allan and Mike discuss the recent Atlantic Article by Johnathan Haidt, delving  into how social media has made America stupid. They also talk Donald Trump running in the 2024 election and flying unmasked!

Episode 68: Uniquely Stupid Democracy…

April 27, 2022 12:00

On this episode of Both Sides Allan and Mike discuss the recent Atlantic Article by Johnathan Haidt, delving  into how social media has made America stupid. They also talk Donald Trump running in the 2024 election and flying unmasked!

Episode #67: What's a Black Woman got to do with It?

March 29, 2022 13:30 - 38 minutes - 52.8 MB

On this episode Allan and Mike continue the conversation about the war in the Ukraine, based on information Allan says is imperative to understanding.  They also talk about Supreme Court Nominations, and how things are looking for Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. Would these hearings be the same if she wasn't a black woman?

Episode #66 - Ukraine, Culture and Baseball!

March 15, 2022 13:00 - 42 minutes - 57.8 MB

On this episode Allan and Mike continue the conversation about the situation in the Ukraine.  They also delve into culture wars, and of course talk about the topic we are all thinking abou when will baseball start?

Episode #65 - Invasion of the Ukraine

March 01, 2022 14:30 - 46 minutes - 63.3 MB

In this episode Allan and Mike talk about their thoughts and understanding of the invasion in the Ukraine. 

Episode #64: Election Security

February 15, 2022 15:00 - 45 minutes - 62.9 MB

On this episode of Both Sides, Allan and Mike talk to elections Commisioner Benjamin Hovland!  Comissioner Hovland serves on the U.S. Election Assistance Commission. Listen in as they talk conspiracy theories and election security.

Episode #63 - Show Me Integrity

February 01, 2022 18:28 - 45 minutes - 61.9 MB

 On this episode of Both Sides, Allan and Mike talk to Benjamin Singer, CEO of Show Me integrity!  Show me Integrity is a cross partisan group of reformers in Missouri who are passionate about creating a government that is open, accountable, and not beholden to special interests. They are committed to building a strong coalition all across the state putting power back into the hands of the people. Listen in as they dig deeper into Approval and Rank Choice Voting.

Episode #62: Voting and Election Reform

January 18, 2022 19:42 - 41 minutes - 56.8 MB

On todays podcast  Allan and Mike talk about voter and election reform, do we have more important things to focus on?  Are our elected officials doing too much, or too little?     

Both Sides Episode #61: End of the Year Wrap!

December 21, 2021 14:00 - 55 minutes - 76.4 MB

2021 has been a year filled with vaccines, mandates, masks, international withdrawals, and so much more! On this episode of Both Sides, Allan and Mike discuss their top 5 world events in 2021.  Did they agree on anything? Do YOU agree with them?  We would love to hear your thoughts as you listen to this special end of the year episode!

Episode #60 - Reparations.

December 07, 2021 14:00 - 54 minutes - 75.5 MB

In our previous episode we  heard from Allan as he traveled to Germany as the descendant of someone who had suffered political or religious persecution during WW2. In this episode Allan and Mike are joined by Pamela Denise Long, to explore how the United States could do the same through reparations. Ms. Long is a doctoral-prepared implementation consultant and CEO of Youthcentrix® Therapy Services. Her business helps organizations implement trauma-informed practices and systemwide diversit...

Both Sides Episode #59: Reconciliation for the Children and & Grandchildren

November 17, 2021 23:06 - 51 minutes - 70.2 MB

Since 1980, the city of Frankfurt has hosted a program aimed at allowing former citizens, including those of Jewish descent AND those who suffered political or religious persecution, to visit the city. The programme is aimed at all those first and second generation, who suffered persecution during the National Socialist regime and were forced to leave Frankfurt.  On this episode of Both Sides, Allan and Mike explore Allan’s recent trip to Frankfurt and discuss how Germany chose to face the...

Both Sides Episode #58 - Labor Shortages, Dystopia and Bills 2.0

October 27, 2021 02:00 - 42 minutes - 58.7 MB

On this episode, Allan and Mike share their thoughts on labor shortages, supply chain issues, and dystopian society. They also attempt  to figure out with whom Kyrsten Sinema actually talks to, while trying to make sense of the reconciliation bill - AGAIN! We also hear their thoughts on the Missouri Senate race, the January 6th Committee and executive privilege.  

Both Sides Episode #58 - Labor Shortages, Dystopia and Bills 2.0

October 27, 2021 02:00

On this episode, Allan and Mike share their thoughts on labor shortages, supply chain issues, and dystopian society. They also attempt  to figure out with whom Kyrsten Sinema actually talks to, while trying to make sense of the reconciliation bill - AGAIN! We also hear their thoughts on the Missouri Senate race, the January 6th Committee and executive privilege.  

Both Sides Episode #58 - Labor Shortages, Dystopia and Bills 2.0

October 27, 2021 02:00

On this episode, Allan and Mike share their thoughts on labor shortages, supply chain issues, and dystopian society. They also attempt  to figure out with whom Kyrsten Sinema actually talks to, while trying to make sense of the reconciliation bill - AGAIN! We also hear their thoughts on the Missouri Senate race, the January 6th Committee and executive privilege.  

Both Sides Episode #57: Bills, Budgets, and TIFs

October 12, 2021 22:27 - 40 minutes - 55.1 MB

On this episode of Both Sides, Allan and Mike talk our capacity to govern ourselves through the lens of debt limits, reconciliation packages and Infrastructure bills!  Who’s winning and who’s losing and what does this mean as we head into 2022!  Also, whats up with the Kansas City Police Budget and where EXACTLY are the funds being used?   

Both Sides Episode #56: The Upswing

September 28, 2021 20:44 - 1 hour - 93.5 MB

On this special episode of Both Sides, we welcome award winning authors Robert Putnam and Shaylyn Romney Garrett!  In their new book The Upswing, the authors state that history holds the answers to how we move out of these tumultuous times. They argue that America's Gilded Age shows remarkable similarity to our own, including a  gap between rich and poor, and a societal focus on "I" rather than "we."  Listen in as our guest hosts Claire Bishop and Shaun Stsllworth talk to Putnam and Romney...

Both Sides Episode #55 Andrew Gillum

August 31, 2021 18:13 - 59 minutes - 81.7 MB

In this episode of Both Sides, Allan and Mike are joined by Andrew Gillum. A lifelong public servant, Andrew Gillum is recognized across Florida and the nation as a bold and inspirational leader. The former Mayor of Tallahassee and 2018 Florida Democratic gubernatorial nominee, Mayor Gillum possesses the unique ability to bring people together for a common purpose and mobilize them to bring about change.  

Both Sides Episode #54

August 17, 2021 10:00 - 54 minutes - 75 MB

In Episode 54 of Both Sides, Allan and Mike are joined by Brad Austin, director of "All These Delicate Sorrows".  All These Delicate Sorrows is a Kansas City PBS documentary that follows the journey of Holocaust survivors from liberation in 1945 to the Midwest. We hear about Brad's creative process and the lessons we can learn from shared personal stories. The second half of our podcast features our own Allan Katz remembering how the Holocaust impacted his own family. 

Special Student Initiative Episode: Online Activism

August 04, 2021 15:20 - 1 hour - 85.9 MB

This special episode of At the Square features American Public Square at Jewell's (APS) Spring 2021 Intern Team comprised of Hugo Juarez Avalos, Hannah Cole, and Luke Dema joined by guests Leslie Ponce-Diaz, Rubi Perez Vazquez, and Valeria Martinez speaking about Online Activism. Find out more at https://americanpublicsquare.org/ 

Both Sides #53: A Summer Recap

July 27, 2021 10:00 - 41 minutes - 56.9 MB

In episode #53 of Both Sides features Mike and Allan discussing events of the summer including new voting laws and differing opinions on critical race theory, as well as a lesson in international protocol from the hosts. For more information, visit https://americanpublicsquare.org/events/atthesquare/  

Both Sides #52: New Gun Laws and US Foreign Influence

June 25, 2021 14:00 - 45 minutes - 62.2 MB

In Episode #52 of Both Sides, Allan and Mike begin by discussing the new Missouri gun laws and how they relate to the nullification doctrine of 1832. They also discuss the G7 summit, American foreign policy and influence, the Missouri senate race, and more. For recent episodes and more information go to: https://americanpublicsquare.org/  

Both Sides #51: Coffee and Politics with Sam Brownback

June 11, 2021 14:00 - 55 minutes - 76.4 MB

In Episode #51 we are featuring a live segment of Coffee & Politics recorded in May 2021. This segment features Ambassador Sam Brownback. Since 1995 Ambassador Brownback has served as congressman, senator and governor. Most recently Brownback served as the US Ambassador for International Religious Freedom. Since stepping down Brownback has spoken publicly about his next steps, most notably racial reconciliation.  In our tradition of bringing important issues of the day to the community for ...

Both Sides #50: Local Control of Police in KC?

June 04, 2021 21:02 - 38 minutes - 52.6 MB

In episode #50 of Both Sides, Mike and Allan are catching up about the Missouri legislature refusing to fund Medicaid, Kansas City aiming to gain local control of the police department and the likelihood of congress establishing a commission to investigate the insurrection at the capitol on January 6th. In our 50th episode, we're also saying goodbye to our producer, Allison Koelzer, who is moving on from APS to pursue a Master of Divinity. Denesha Snell, APS Program Director, will be taking ...

Both Sides #49: Deputy Opinion Editor at Newsweek Batya Ungar-Sargon

May 21, 2021 18:23 - 47 minutes - 65.2 MB

Episode #49 of Both Sides features a conversation with Batya Ungar-Sargon, the Deputy Opinion Editor at Newsweek. Batya talks with Mike and Allan about her book Bad News: How Woke Media is Undermining Democracy then shifts gears to provide extended context related to Israel and Palestine. Find Newsweek's podcast The Debate here. Find Batya Ungar-Sargon's book details and pre-order here.  American Public Square at Jewell is excited to announce that we will be partnering with Newsweek. ...

Both Sides #48: Cocktails and Politics with Eddie Glaude Jr.

May 14, 2021 17:34 - 1 hour - 83.5 MB

In Episode #48 of Both Sides, we're featuring a live, virtual event that was recorded on March 25th, 2021. Cocktails and Politics with Eddie S. Glaude Jr. features Both Sides Cohost Mike McShane and APS Program Director Denesha Snell. In an intimate conversation with Professor Glaude about his new book 'Begin Again', they explore James Baldwin's life and writings with reverence for how race is explored in contemporary America.  Eddie S. Glaude Jr. is an American critic in the tradition of ...

Both Sides #47: Police Reform, Vaccine Update, and Biden's American Families Plan

May 07, 2021 05:00 - 40 minutes - 55.2 MB

In Episode #47 of Both Sides, Allan and Mike begin by reflecting on the implications of the guilty verdict of former Minnesota police officer, Derek Chauvin, sharing what they see as realistic police reform post trial. They also share thoughts about what it means to motivate people to receive a vaccine AND how they each view the proposed American Families Plan introduced by the Biden Administration. 

Both Sides #46: Coffee and Politics with Congressman Don Beyer

April 15, 2021 15:50 - 57 minutes - 78.5 MB

Episode #46 of Both Sides features a recording of a live Coffee and Politics Conversation with Congressman Don Beyer that took place on April 6th, 2021. Both Sides' Cohost Allan Katz and Producer, Allison Koelzer talk with Rep. Beyer about higher education reform and the likelihood of Student Loan Forgiveness. This event was a part of Student Month at APS.  Congressman Don Beyer is serving his fourth term as the U.S. Representative from Virginia’s 8th District, representing Arlington, Alex...

Both Sides #45: The Impact of Vaccination on Lives and Livelihoods with Dr. Erika Blacksher

April 09, 2021 18:59 - 43 minutes - 59.8 MB

In Episode #45, Allan and Mike discuss vaccination ethics, access, hesitancy, and passports with Dr. Erika Blacksher, the John B. Francis Chair in Bioethics at the Center for Practical Bioethics. Dr. Blacksher was the moderator at an APS Signature Program recorded on 04/01/2021 'The Impact of Vaccination on Lives and Livelihoods - A People's Dialogue', presented in partnership with The Center for Practical Bioethics and the Health Forward Foundation. Find the fact sheet and the recording o...

Both Sides #44: Gun Violence in Missouri - Seeking Solutions with The Kansas City Star

April 02, 2021 17:17 - 38 minutes - 53.2 MB

In Episode #44 of Both Sides, Allan and Mike are joined by Ian Cummings and Toriano Porter of the Kansas City Star to discuss Gun Violence in Missouri. APS is in partnership with the Kansas City Star presenting a joint-ongoing series called 'Gun Violence in Missouri: Seeking Solutions'. These 1 hour panel discussions are aimed to explore economic mobility, how public health approach to gun violence could improve outcomes for Missouri, and giving context to the Social Determinants of Health...

Both Sides #43: Life, A Year After COVID 19 in the United States

March 18, 2021 18:34 - 52 minutes - 71.8 MB

We're celebrating 1 YEAR of #BothSides at American Public Square at Jewell. Episode #43 features a reflection of the past year of digital programming, a look ahead at what Allan and Mike see as lasting impacts of the COVID 19 pandemic, and of course a current events round up with perspective on the American Rescue Plan and Immigration under the Biden Administration. Thank you for listening to #BothSides! We're looking to engage with our weekly audience by way of answering YOUR questions. V...

Both Sides #42: An Educator's Perspective on Virtual Learning and Vaccine Accessibility

March 12, 2021 19:54 - 41 minutes - 57.5 MB

In Episode #42 of Both Sides, APS Program Director Denesha Snell steps in for Mike McShane and joins Allan for a conversation with master educator, Maya Everette. Everette shares perspective on teaching during the pandemic and thoughtfully engages with Denesha and Allan about what can be learned from virtual learning, her thoughts on vaccine availability and requirements for educators, and her desire for lawmakers at the state level to engage with educators on the front line to better inform...

Both Sides #41: Will Democrats Win or Lose in 2022?

March 05, 2021 00:57 - 42 minutes - 58.2 MB

In Episode #41 of Both Sides, Allan gives an update about his second dose of the vaccine. Mike and Allan share perspective on a recent article that features an interview with pollster David Shor and his claim that there are key methods that will indicate a midterm victory for Democrats. Allison weighs in and asks the pair for advice on the frustrating concept of online criticism. Point of reference: https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2021/03/david-shor-2020-democrats-autopsy-hispanic-vote-mid...

Both Sides #40: A Review of the Impeachment Trial and A Recent Ezra Klein Op-ed

February 19, 2021 14:28 - 41 minutes - 57.1 MB

In Episode #40 of Both Sides, Mike asks Allan to explain a recent blog post that highlighted Senator Mitch McConnell's closing remarks at the Senate Impeachment Hearing of Former President Donald J. Trump. The two offer thoughts on the hearing as a whole, then discuss a recent op-ed written by journalist Ezra Klein entitled 'California is making Liberals Squirm: If progressivism can’t work there, why should the country believe it can work anywhere else?' published originally in the New York ...

Both Sides #39: Cocktails and Politics with Senator John Danforth

February 12, 2021 16:12 - 1 hour - 83.7 MB

Recorded Live on February 11th, 2021 on Zoom webinar. Recently Former Missouri Senator John C. Danforth made headlines chastising one of his fellow Republicans and statesman, Sen. Josh Hawley, after the insurrection on at the U.S. Capitol.   Join Danforth for an intimate conversation about the state of affairs in our country with the Cohosts of APS’ podcast Both Sides Ambassador Allan Katz and Mike McShane. The trio talk about the notion of “us versus them” that has taken hold in Ameri...

Both Sides #38: Receiving the Vaccine

February 05, 2021 18:19 - 39 minutes - 54 MB

In Episode #38 of Both Sides, Allan recounts his recent experience receiving the COVID 19 vaccine, answering Mike's questions about the logistics, notable side effects, and the emotional impact. The two then discuss how the United States roll out of vaccine distribution, though slower than what many would like it to be, is much more organized than European counterparts. 

Both Sides #37: Setting the Tone for Unity

January 22, 2021 18:11 - 39 minutes - 54.5 MB

In Both Sides Episode #37, Mike and Allan debrief on the inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Mike and Allan discuss Biden's first 100 days, sharing thoughts on the use of Executive Orders as a form of policy making. Mike and Allan also discuss the post-Trump era of the Republican Party, making their predictions on whether or not some law makers may shift loyalty. 

Both Sides #36: The Case for Impeachment and a Vaccine Progress Review

January 15, 2021 18:42 - 45 minutes - 61.9 MB

In Episode #36 of Both Sides, Mike and Allan discuss the second Impeachment of President Trump in the House of Representatives and the permanent removal of his Twitter account. Mike explains why Twitter has the authority to do this, discussing the rights of a private company. Allan gives perspective on how and when he anticipates receiving the COVID 19 vaccine.  Join American Public Square at Jewell on 1/19/2021 at 5PM for 'Coming Together: Can we Bridge our Country's Divisions?' a panel d...

Both Sides #35: Chaos at the Capitol

January 07, 2021 21:40 - 45 minutes - 61.9 MB

Who should be held accountable? In Episode #35 of Both Sides, Mike and Allan share frustrations and reactions to the mob of rioters that breached the United States Capitol on January 6th, 2021 to prevent Congress from affirming the results of the 2020 Presidential Election. Mike and Allan analyze what lead to this unfortunate, historic event with attention to the inconsistency of how this group of rioters were treated versus how Black Lives Matter protestors were treated in the Summer of 202...