Policy People
Education & Explainer
About
Policy People is the newest podcast from the University of Chicago Public Policy Podcast Network (UC3P). In this series, we will be interviewing current MPP and MSCAPP students on their previous experiences, their background, and why and how they ended up in Harris! There are so many stories waiting to be unfolded, and we want you to be part of it!
Episodes
- Public Service in Chicago with Emily Metz | S2E8
Emily Metz shares her experiences in public service, focusing on reimagining public education and policy in Chicago. The episode covers her career path, from education to philanthropy, and discusses the importance of understanding human dy…
- AI, Strategy, and Growth Marketing with Alejandro Cuauhtemoc-Mejia | S2E7
Alejandro Cuauhtemoc-Mejia joins Policy People to discuss the strategist's bridge, growth marketing, and AI's impact on employment. He shares advice for graduates navigating the job market and translating policy skills to the tech industry.
- S2E6: Amber's Academy
Amber Mercier, an alumna, shares her dedication to guiding students through exchange education. She emphasizes the value of global diversity in learning and her work with IES and volunteer activities for youth.
- S2E5: Not a mistake, but an experience
Sarah Guminski, head of startup experience at 1871, shares her journey from a research background to her current role. The episode highlights the idea that decisions made in one's 20s should be viewed as valuable experiences rather than mi…
- S2E4: The flip side
Jihan Varisco uses his platform 'The Flip Side,' with over 20,000 subscribers, to bridge the divide between liberals and conservatives. This episode honors Charlie Kirk and advocates for tolerance of differing ideologies.
- S2E3: For health, for friendship
In this episode of Policy Podcast, guest Adam Nation shares his work in public health, focusing on improving physical and mental wellness. The episode also includes fond memories of his late classmate Jim Howes and provides resources for d…
- S2E2: Comedy to Policy
Robert Callahan, a Harris alum, joins the podcast to discuss his work as Director of Policy Analytics at the Office of New York City Comptroller. The episode covers the challenges he faces in his role and his diverse background, including…
- S2E1: Flashback
In this episode of Policy People, host interviews alumnus Alberto Ramos (Class of 2012), the recent convocation speaker. Ramos shares insights into his life and career trajectory post-graduation.
- EP07: End of beginning
This is the final episode of the Policy People podcast, marking the end of the host's time as a Harris student. The podcast has been a space for laughter, tears, and personal growth over two years, with a dedication to the Class of 2025.
- EP06: One of a Kind
In the sixth episode of Policy People, guests Karan Kapoor and Melodie Angel Slaughter discuss the highs and lows of life and finding God. They highlight that despite differing beliefs, their shared faith led them to become kinder, 'one of…
- EP05: Courageous Cursious
Neil Stein MPP’ 25 and Lauren Schmidt join the podcast to discuss the impact of curiosity and courage. They share insights on how making difficult decisions can positively alter one's life and the challenges involved.
- EP04: P like Patriot, P like Person
John (Jay) Parish, a 13-year U.S. Army veteran, and Madison Moreau, daughter of a Navy Admiral, share their extraordinary and everyday experiences related to military life.
- EP03: Home Away From HOME
In this episode, second-year MPP students Omar Ansari and William Wu share their experiences of moving to the US at a young age. They discuss their personal journeys and the concept of home, especially during the holiday season.
- EP02: For the People
Policy People episode "For the People" features MPP students Ralph Valery Valiere and LaVontae Brooks. They share insights on government roles, their personal journeys, and offer advice for future public servants.
- EP01: Cherry on Top
The first episode of Policy People, from the UC3P network, features interviews with MPP ’25 student Shivani Patel and MSCAPP ‘25 student Joaquin Pinto. They discuss their backgrounds and focus areas including data science, economics, inter…