SmarterU

In this episode, Jeff Clements discusses the critical issue of money in politics, the history of campaign finance reform, and the constitutional path to fixing systemic corruption through a proposed amendment. This conversation highlights the importance of civic engagement and constitutional change to restore democracy.

In this episode, David Daley, best-selling author of Anti-Democratic and Rat F**cked, and Why Your Vote Doesn't Count, discusses the systemic intricacies of how politicians cheat when they draw district lines (gerrymandering/redistricting) and the outsized influence of the Supreme Court on American democracy. Discover how systemic manipulation affects elections and what citizens can do to restore...

Energy is more than a political debate or a monthly bill. It is opportunity, quality of life, and economic mobility. In this episode of Smarter U, Steve talks with Alan Smith of Rockcliff Energy about the complexities of worldwide energy consumption, the role hydrocarbons play in today’s energy mix, and why billions of people still face challenges many of us rarely see. It is a conversation about...

Peter Trevisani, CEO of New Mexico United, and former Finance Guru shares insights on creating a 100 year sports franchise, transforming sports stadiums into community assets, building a passionate fan base, and leveraging storytelling and social media to create a lasting legacy in sports and community development. key topics Stadiums as civic assets and community hubs Storytelling and social medi...

Uber Business Consultant Laura Wheeler, co-founder of RVNU, opens up about her AI experience with US companies, offering practical and tangible steps that all businesses, entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners should be doing yesterday. She and Steve explore how AI is transforming business processes, data collection, and market relevance. Discover practical insights on leveraging AI for effici...

Gaming and Marketing Savant Christie St. Martin shares how AI and Tech Worlds are leading us back to each other. Christie is an accomplished marketeer and social entrepreneur who helps build large scale communites through organizations like Gamers. Vote and CrossroadsXP. She illuminates how we can listen, be flexible and have a voice.

Gaming industry giant, Todd Harris, theco-founder of Gaming Giant Hi-Rez Studios, now CEO of Resurgens Gaming, Skillshot Gaming and Ghost Gaming, illuminates how gaming fosters a growth mindset, builds community, and drives technological innovation. Discover how gaming influences society, entrepreneurship, and democracy, and learn practical steps to leverage gaming for community development.

Join us as Ginger Kerrick, a NASA legend and Chief Strategy Officer at Barrios Technology, shares her inspiring journey through space exploration, her insights on NASA's Artemis program, and the future of space industry innovation. Discover how her resilience, leadership, and passion are shaping humanity's next giant leap. NASA Artemis program and lunar missions The role of private companies like...

In this engaging conversation, Lynn Gilmartin shares her insights on motherhood, entrepreneurship, and the importance of focus, presence, and self-work in parenting. Discover practical tips, mental models, and inspiring stories that highlight the entrepreneurial spirit of moms and how to navigate the challenges of raising children with love and intention. key topics The entrepreneurial spirit of m...

Serial Entrepreneur and Therapist to the Stars, Clay Crosby, shares his journey through the entrepreneurial landscape of therapy and counseling, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness, effective communication, and adapting to technological advances like AI. Discover practical tips for building a practice, managing relationships, and staying resilient in a rapidly changing industry.

Legendary hospitality icon, Reggie Martin, shares his inspiring journey from East Chicago to becoming a global influencer and hospitality icon in Macau, Chaina. Discover how relationships, influence, and authenticity can transform your life and career. key topics The importance of relationships over money Influence and power structures in small and large ponds The role of basketball and sports in...

Former Head of Sports at Meta, Peter Hutton shares insights on the transformative power of sport, the impact of technology on sports consumption, and the entrepreneurial opportunities within the sports industry. From his experiences at Eurosport and Meta to his work in the new Saudi Arabia and the US, this conversation explores how sport can inspire, unite, and evolve in the digital age. Key Topic...

In this episode, we sit down with Alastair Duncan—known for his work in the God of War series—to explore something simple, but often overlooked: the importance of truly listening. In a world that rewards quick reactions and constant noise, listening can feel like a lost skill. Alastair reflects on how slowing down, being present, and hearing others more deeply can lead to better conversations, str...

Mark Itkin rose to be the Managing Partner of hollywood's mega agency, William Morris Endeavor by Zigging while everyone else was Zagging. Responsible for getting Deal or No Deal, Fear Factor, The Real World, Big Brother, Project Runway, Hell's Kitchen, Buffy the Vampire Slayer and so many more to market and onto televisions, Mark has left an indullible "mark" on the entertainment landscape. In th...

Get practical ... Get Started ... with Anish Quenim, Director of the Alderson Griffin Center for Family Business and Entrepreneurship at the Rawls College of Business, Texas Tech University. Unpack the very first steps you need to take to get started and the critical things you can do to make your hard work benefit your family and generations to come. Join us as we explore the future of family bus...

summary In this insightful interview, Dines, a creative powerhouse in the global creative scene, co-founder and creative director of Studio Blup, shares his perspectives on staying relevant in the age of AI, building authentic brands, and cultivating a creative mindset. He emphasizes the importance of culture, authenticity, and consistent work to achieve long-term success. key topics Staying ahead...

Matt Savage shares his journey from chip runner to influential leader in the poker industry, emphasizing respect, standardization, and global growth of poker. Discover how his innovations and passion have shaped televised poker and fostered a worldwide community. key topics Standardization of poker rules Global expansion of poker tournaments Impact of televised poker on the industry sound bites "N...

In this trend-setting interview, poker legend Phil Hellmuth shares insights on success, positivity, networking, and the parallels between poker and entrepreneurship. Discover how embracing authenticity, seizing opportunities, and building genuine relationships can transform your life and career. key topics The importance of seizing opportunities and walking through doors The role of positivity and...

In this engaging conversation, WPT host Vince Van Patten shares his journey from a young poker enthusiast to a prominent figure in the poker world as the host of the World Poker Tour. He discusses the importance of forgiveness, the evolution of poker into a mainstream sport, and his entrepreneurial spirit that has led him to various creative ventures. Vince reflects on the grind of poker and life,...

In this pace-setting conversation, Steve Lipscomb and Hermance Blum discuss the evolution of the World Poker Tour, the importance of adaptability in global business, and the unique experiences that poker offers. They explore how poker serves as a platform for diverse individuals to connect, the significance of branding and innovation in the industry, and the role of content creation in expanding t...

Movie and Television Star Mimi Rogers shares her insights on persistence, creativity, and the entrepreneurial spirit in both acting and poker. She discusses her journey in Hollywood, the importance of storytelling, and how the streaming revolution has opened new opportunities for actors of all ages. Mimi reflects on her experiences in the World Poker Tour and the lessons learned from both poker an...

In this engaging conversation, Steve Lipscomb and Lynn Gilmartin explore the intersection of poker, storytelling, and personal growth. Lynn shares her journey in the poker world, emphasizing the importance of communication, listening, and emotional intelligence. They discuss the significance of taking risks, the role of luck in both poker and life, and the power of generosity within the poker comm...

World Poker Tour CEO Adam Pliska returns for the second half of our conversation to tell the story that changed everything. At 17 years old, Adam met legendary television producer Al Burton, a mentor who opened the door to the entertainment industry and helped shape Adam’s values, leadership style, and career. That relationship would eventually lead him to a decades-long journey at the helm of the...

In this engaging conversation, World Poker Tour CEO Adam Pliska and World Poker Tour Creator Steve Lipscombexplore the journey of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of uniqueness, authenticity, and collaboration. They discuss the myth of competency, the value of embracing failure, and the role of play in fostering innovation. The dialogue highlights how navigating challenges and redefini...

In this engaging conversation, Founding Curator of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Museum, Ellen Harrington, shares her extensive experience in the film and museum sectors, emphasizing the importance of direct experience over mediated interactions. She discusses the evolving role of museums, the power of storytelling in cinema, and the impact of technology on how stories are told a...