Best Matt Kirchner Podcasts (2025)

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Could We Really Make Anything, Anywhere, Anytime? A Deep Dive into Distributed Manufacturing - Dr. Charles Johnson-Bey, ERVA Co-Principal Investigator 56:49

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4d ago56:49

56:49

Distributed manufacturing allows goods to be produced closer to where they’re needed — but enabling that future requires a complete rethink of infrastructure, systems, and workforce development. In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, Dr. Charles Johnson-Bey joins host Matt Kirchner for a deep dive into Engineering the Future of Distributed Manufact…

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Lamar Giles Talks Found Family in 'Sanctuary: A Bad Batch Novel' 26:03

8d ago26:03

26:03

Author Lamar Giles (The Getaway, FACPOV: Return of the Jedi) joins The Youtini Show for a non-spoiler chat about his full length Star Wars debut, Sanctuary: A Bad Batch Novel. Join Eric and Lamar as they discuss his journey to becoming a Star Wars writer thanks to Stephen King and his uncle's VHS collection, his ability to create a tonally perfect …

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The $10 Million Workforce Experiment That Could Redefine Apprenticeships in America - Lindsay Blumer, CEO of WRTP | BIG STEP 48:49

11d ago48:49

48:49

Workforce systems are often fragmented—built around short-term funding, disconnected programs, and a lack of coordination between industry, education, and community. But a different model is taking shape - one that’s not only working in practice, but has the potential to scale across states and regions. In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host M…

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Matt Smith Joins Starfighter, LEGO Revan, & REBELIÓN! 46:42

9d ago46:42

46:42

On this episode of The Youtini Show, the Doctor steps into the spotlight as Starfighter introduces a brand-new villain. We celebrate the return of LEGO Star Wars, bigger and better than ever, and dive into John Boyega’s surprising revelation that he once wanted Rey and Finn to echo Obi-Wan and Vader. Plus, Andor leans into the Emmy race with an une…

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Love It or Hate It: A Surprisingly Human (And Very Fun) Conversation About Math - Dr. Jordan Ellenberg, Mathematics Professor at the University of Wisconsin 1:04:53

18d ago1:04:53

1:04:53

What happens when a world-class mathematician meets ’80s college radio, Bill Gates’ top-10 favorite books, and a host with an algebra redemption arc? A surprisingly funny, fast-moving conversation. Dr. Jordan Ellenberg—John D. MacArthur Professor of Mathematics at UW–Madison and author of How Not to Be Wrong—swaps stories about The Housemartins, co…

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The Smart Farm Era Is Here—and It’s Changing How America Grows Food - Dick Pavelski and Andy Diercks, Food + Farm Exploration Center 40:03

25d ago40:03

40:03

If you still picture farming as dusty tractors and endless manual labor, think again. Today’s agriculture runs on GPS-guided equipment, drones, real-time soil sensors, and data systems that look more like Wall Street trading floors than old barns. In this episode, lifelong farmer and innovator Dick Pavelski and Andy Diercks of the Food + Farm Explo…

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New Star Wars Books, Youtini Partners, & The Galactic Championship! 50:59

23d ago50:59

50:59

On tonight’s episode of The Youtini Show, we break down all the major Lucasfilm Publishing reveals from San Diego Comic-Con—including a brand-new Star Wars book announcement! We also share some exciting new Youtini partnerships you won’t want to miss. Plus, Eric gives us the full scoop on his action-packed weekend at the Star Wars Unlimited Galacti…

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AI Can Close the Learning Gap in Underserved Classrooms. But We Have to Guide, Not Just Give - Sam Whitaker, Director of Social Impact at StudyFetch 48:52

1M ago48:52

48:52

In schools with limited resources, large class sizes, and wide differences in student ability, individualized learning has become a necessity. Artificial intelligence offers powerful tools to help meet those needs, especially in underserved communities. But the way we introduce those tools matters. This week, Matt Kirchner talks with Sam Whitaker, …

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The Rules for Earning College Credit Are Changing, and Competency (Not Time in Seats) Matters Most - Dr. Paul Carlsen, President of Lakeshore College 48:47

1M ago48:47

48:47

With technical education under pressure to deliver skilled talent faster, Lakeshore College is flipping the model—measuring learning by competency, meeting students where they are (even in high school), and using grants + national advocacy to scale the impact. This week, Matt Kirchner talks with Dr. Paul Carlsen, President of Lakeshore College, abo…

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Andor Snubs, Galactic Championships, and Reylo?! 50:58

1M ago50:58

50:58

On tonight’s episode of The Youtini Show, we unpack Andor’s surprising list of Emmy nominations and what they mean for prestige Star Wars. We look ahead to the Star Wars Galactic Championships, react to the first excerpt from Bad Batch: Sanctuary featuring Hunter and Emerie, and celebrate a big win for Reylo fans in a way nobody saw coming!…

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Meet the Maker: Inkstone Books Founder Brett Kirchner 32:04

1M ago32:04

32:04

In an exclusive Youtini collaboration, Eric sits down with Brett Kirchner, the founder of Inkstone Books, to chat all about his history with Star Wars and how he's redefining the world of franchise bookselling with incredible special editions.By Youtini Podcast Network

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Rethinking Risk: How Strategic Guardrails Can Actually Empower Innovation - Abim Kolawole, Chief Audit Executive at Northwestern Mutual 49:34

1M ago49:34

49:34

What if audit wasn’t just a watchdog—but a catalyst for innovation, trust, and long-term growth? And what can education learn from it? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, Matt Kirchner sits down with Abim Kolawole, Chief Audit Executive at Northwestern Mutual, to explore how risk management, when done right, becomes a strategic advantage. Abim s…

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They Haven't Graduated Yet, but They're Already Tackling the Big Problems of 2045 - Duncan Kane, SVP at Toshiba 48:49

2M ago48:49

48:49

In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, Duncan Kane, Senior Vice President at Toshiba America, shares insights from nearly two decades of working at the intersection of industry and education. Drawing from his leadership in STEM outreach, Duncan explains why Toshiba sees early STEM engagement not just as a good cause—but as a strategic investment in…

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Kenobi Season 2 & Legends of the Force! 50:31

2M ago50:31

50:31

On tonight’s episode of The Youtini Show, Kenobi Season 2 rumors are back and heating up the discourse. We dive into the latest updates on LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy, including the reveal of a surprising new villain. Plus, the team shares their experiences attending their very first Star Wars: Unlimited pre-release events—deck builds, wins,…

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Teaching in the Age of Distraction: Why Students Can’t Focus – And What Educators Should Do About It - Dr. Gloria Mark, Author of Attention Span 50:13

2M ago50:13

50:13

In a world of digital overload, short-form media, and AI-powered personalization, staying focused has never been harder. Today, the average attention span on any screen is just 47 seconds. What's causing this decline in focus, and what should educators do about it? Those are some of the questions we discuss with Dr. Gloria Mark, UC Irvine informati…

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Mark Hamill's Dark Head Canon & Inkstone's Stunning Sanctuary! 1:02:19

2M ago1:02:19

1:02:19

On tonight’s episode of The Youtini Show, we explore Mark Hamill’s wild alternate backstory for Luke Skywalker, celebrate Inkstone’s gorgeous Sanctuary edition reveal, and break down the internet-shattering release of the official Star Wars galaxy map. Plus, it’s Star Wars: Unlimited prerelease week, and the Youtini crew is all in!…

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Inside the Tour de France: Strategy, Technology, and the Science of the World’s Toughest Race - Jason Gay, Sports Columnist at The Wall Street Journal 46:17

2M ago46:17

46:17

What does the Tour de France have to do with STEM education? More than you might think. This week, host Matt Kirchner is joined by Wall Street Journal columnist and cycling expert Jason Gay to unpack the world’s most demanding sporting event: the Tour de France. They break down everything from team tactics to jersey competitions to the breathtaking…

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Han Solo Returns, and Star Wars Unlimited Takeover! 1:08:26

2M ago1:08:26

1:08:26

On this episode of The Youtini Show, we celebrate Han Solo’s return in a brand-new comic series, discuss how Andor is poised to break an Emmys record, and share how Star Wars: Unlimited is taking over the Youtini community!By Youtini Podcast Network

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"Open to Anything" = Hired for Nothing: Accelerate Your Career Search with Smarter Networking 24:11

2M ago24:11

24:11

Submit your question for Ask Us Anything! Networking can be the best way to land your first (or next) big job, but are you going about it the wrong way? Too often, networking conversations end the same way: the other person says, “I’ll keep an eye out and let you know if I hear of anything that fits.” You nod, thank them… and never hear from them a…

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The High Republic is Over & Andor Hits #1! 1:09:43

2M ago1:09:43

1:09:43

On this episode of The Youtini Show, we reflect on the finale of Trials of the Jedi and its role in wrapping up four years of The High Republic storytelling. Plus, Andor breaks a major record that could shape Disney’s future direction, and Kathleen Kennedy shares updates on Starfighter and what’s next for the galaxy far, far away.…

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AI Engineering: The Emerging Field Poised to Secure America’s AI Advantage - Pramod Khargonekar, ERVA Co-Principal Investigator and Vice Chancellor for Research at UC Irvine 55:52

3M ago55:52

55:52

A new era is emerging where engineering drives AI—and AI transforms engineering This week Matt Kirchner is joined by Dr. Pramod Khargonekar—Vice Chancellor for Research at UC Irvine and lead author of the ERVA report AI Engineering: A Strategic Research Framework to Benefit Society. Dr. Khargonekar unpacks the emerging discipline of AI Engineering,…

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Starfighter Casts the Next Star Wars Star, Disney Says Streaming is Dead, & More! 1:06:25

3M ago1:06:25

1:06:25

On this episode of The Youtini Show, we cover the latest casting update for Starfighter, Mark Hamill’s thoughts on the future of Star Wars, and the impact of budget cuts and shifting trends in streaming. Plus, we look ahead to the epic conclusion of The High Republic and what it could mean for the galaxy far, far away.…

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The 5 Strategies Driving Transformative K-12 Education - Dr. Annalies Corbin, Founder of the PAST Foundation 54:50

3M ago54:50

54:50

What do all high-impact, disruptive—and sustainable—K-12 programs have in common? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Dr. Annalies Corbin, founder and CEO of the PAST Foundation and author of Hacking School: Five Strategies to Link Learning to Life. With more than 25 years of experience transforming how students…

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Robots, Ice Cream and Instagram: The Viral Mechatronics Lab Turning Engagement Into Employment - Danny Murphy, Mechatronics Professor at CVCC 48:41

3M ago48:41

48:41

After 20 years in automation and controls engineering, Danny Murphy received a call from a local community college that would bring his journey full circle—back to the kind of impact his own high school electronics teacher once had on him. Today, he’s a nationally recognized educator, named A3’s 2024 Educator of the Year, and he’s redefining what h…

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Battlefront 2 Takes Over & The Mandalorian and Grogu News! 1:18:51

3M ago1:18:51

1:18:51

On this episode of The Youtini Show, we dive into the sudden resurgence of Battlefront 2 as the hottest Star Wars game, and unpack Rian Johnson’s hints at a possible return to the galaxy far, far away. We also break down a new but unsurprising update on The Mandalorian & Grogu film and react to the wild rumor that Ryan Reynolds once pitched an R-ra…

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Is Andor the Best Star Wars Project of All Time?! 1:20:28

3M ago1:20:28

1:20:28

On this episode of The Youtini Show, we dive headfirst into the thrilling series finale of Andor and unpack its jaw-dropping moments and lasting legacy. The Last Order stuns with a new cover reveal, AI Darth Vader storms Fortnite, and Star Wars Outlaws gets an upgrade with the infamous Hondo Ohnaka. Plus, we speculate on the galaxy’s future post-An…

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Rebuilding Higher Education Around Solving Real-World Problems - Dr. Kristin Wobbe, Director of the Center for Project-Based Learning at Worcester Polytechnic Institute 40:02

3M ago40:02

40:02

What happens when a university rethinks the whole higher ed model rebuilds it around hands-on, project-based learning? Matt Kirchner dives into the bold model pioneered by Worcester Polytechnic Institute with Dr. Kristin Wobbe, Director of the Center for Project-Based Learning. A biochemist turned curriculum innovator, Kris has spent nearly two dec…

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How to Build & Grow an Industry-Aligned CTE Program - Maroun Nehme, Director of Advanced Robotics and Mechatronics at BPHS 45:54

4M ago45:54

45:54

Host Matt Kirchner sits down with Maroun Nehme, Advanced Robotics and Mechatronics teacher at Buena Park High School in California. Maroun has built one of the most impressive high school mechatronics & robotics programs in the country—complete with a structured 3-year pathway, hands-on labs, and SACA and FANUC certifications that prepare students …

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Star Wars After Andor and Finn & Jannah Return 57:34

4M ago57:34

57:34

On this episode of The Youtini Show, Eric returns from his wedding and adventure to Batuu! We catch up on some of the best Andor episodes yet, speculate on the post-Andor era, and celebrate the announcement of a new Star Wars book featuring Finn and Jannah. Plus, we dive into the Tales of the Underworld Fortnite experience.…

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Inside the Bipartisan Push for America’s Skilled Workforce - U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin 24:36

4M ago24:36

24:36

How do we build bipartisan momentum to support the future of CTE? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, a national leader and co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus. Drawing from her personal upbringing in a STEM-focused household and her decades …

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From the Shop Floor to the Fast Lane: How Racing, Technical Skills and Workforce Strategy Collide - Justin Mondeik, Owner & Driver at Mondeik Racing 36:45

4M ago36:45

36:45

By day, Justin Mondeik applies his technical skills in engineering; by night and weekend, he races Super Late Model cars. From racing snowmobiles at age four to competing just one level below NASCAR, Justin has built a career on technical skill, hands-on passion, and relentless drive. In this episode, he shares how a technical education prepared hi…

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Andor Returns with Stunning Reviews and Revenge of the Sith Breaks the Box Office! 53:23

4M ago53:23

53:23

On this episode of The Youtini Show, we break down the premiere of Andor Season 2 and its glowing reviews, celebrate Revenge of the Sith breaking records with its return to theaters, and explore Star Wars’ latest crossover with Fortnite featuring Poe Dameron and Palpatine. Plus, we dive into the first excerpt from The Acolyte: Wayseeker!…

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Changing Tariffs Will Impact Technical Education—Here’s What to Do About It 38:21

4M ago38:21

38:21

What do tariffs have to do with technical education? A lot more than you might think. As U.S. trade policy shifts, it’s not just manufacturers who will feel the effects—STEM and technical education programs will too. From rising equipment costs to a surge in demand for skilled talent, today’s tariff decisions could reshape how we train tomorrow’s w…

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Star Wars Celebration 2025 Recap 1:00:20

4M ago1:00:20

1:00:20

On this episode of The Youtini Show, we dive into the reveal of Star Wars: Starfighter and the exciting announcement of Maul: Shadow Lord, the next animated series. We also unpack unexpected previews from Star Wars: Visions and share new behind-the-scenes insights from Andor and Ahsoka. Plus, we look ahead to what Star Wars Celebration 2027 could h…

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AI Regulation Can Wait—But Education Reform Can’t - State Senator Julian Bradley 52:50

5M ago52:50

52:50

State Senator Julian Bradley joins Matt Kirchner for a wide-ranging conversation on how policymakers should be thinking about AI, energy, and education. Bradley explains why his committee chose not to recommend regulation of AI, how this move differs from other states, and how artificial intelligence could help solve workforce shortages in critical…

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New Shows, New Books, and Celebration! 1:08:43

5M ago1:08:43

1:08:43

On this episode of The Youtini Show, we break down the newly announced Tales of the Underworld series, the upcoming Revenge of the Sith Deluxe Edition, and the reveal of Master of Evil, a brand-new Darth Vader book. Plus, with Star Wars Celebration just around the corner, we share our final predictions for panels, reveals, and surprises!…

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The 50/50 University Model that Leaves Grads with 2.5 Years of Work Experience and $75k - Dr. Robert McMahan, President of Kettering University 41:53

5M ago41:53

41:53

Is the traditional university model failing today’s students—and the industries that depend on them? Dr. Robert McMahan, President of Kettering University, shares a bold, workforce-driven vision for higher education. From co-op rotations that give students 2.5 years of paid, professional experience before graduation, to integrating trends like arti…

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Microsoft, the Packers, and the Venture Firm Betting on Midwest Innovation - Jill Enos, Managing Partner of TitletownTech 48:59

5M ago48:59

48:59

What happens when a legendary NFL team partners with a tech giant to fuel regional innovation? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Jill Enos, Managing Partner at TitletownTech — the one-of-a-kind venture firm backed by the Green Bay Packers and Microsoft. Jill unpacks how TitletownTech is redefining early-stage …

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A New Vader Book, Star Wars XCOM, & Luke is Here!! 58:14

5M ago58:14

58:14

On this episode of The Youtini Show, we dive into a possible title reveal for an upcoming Star Wars book, react to a new leak from the upcoming Star Wars strategy game, and check out the latest merch dropping for May the 4th and Star Wars Celebration. Plus, we celebrate the arrival of Luke Skywalker and R2-D2 at Galaxy’s Edge for Season of the Forc…

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The Lifelong Impact of Mentorship for STEM Students - Joe Tanner and Curtis Althaus, the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation 35:29

5M ago35:29

35:29

The right mentor can totally change the college and career trajectory of a student. Today, we're exploring the power of mentorships through the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. Join former NASA astronaut Joe Tanner and current Astronaut Scholar Curtis Althaus as they dive into the powerful, and often overlooked, role mentorship plays in building t…

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Andor's Final Trailer & How Cheap IS Grogu?! 49:36

5M ago49:36

49:36

On this episode of The Youtini Show, we break down the final trailer for Andor, explore why The Mandalorian & Grogu might be Disney’s most budget-friendly Star Wars film yet, and look ahead to Claudia Gray’s upcoming novel Into the Light. Plus, we’re hyped to see the return of Doctor Aphra—this time teaming up with none other than Luke Skywalker.…

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What Rising Tariffs Mean for Companies, Workers, and the Future of Trade - John Murphy, SVP & Head of International at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce 43:28

5M ago43:28

43:28

With tariffs back in the spotlight, what’s their real impact on trade, business, and jobs? Are they a necessary tool for protecting American industry, or do they do more harm than good? This week, host Matt Kirchner sits down with John Murphy, Senior Vice President, Head of International for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, to break down the complex w…

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Celebration Panels, Video Game Futures, & Violent, Sexy George Lucas?! 1:07:48

5M ago1:07:48

1:07:48

On this episode of The Youtini Show, we break down the newly released Star Wars Celebration Japan panel schedule, discuss the latest update on the long-awaited KOTOR remake, and say goodbye to Star Wars: Hunters before it even got its chance to shine. Plus, we dive into the wild rumors about a scrapped George Lucas project that was supposedly sexy,…

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Mara Jade Gets a Lightsaber & Star Wars Celebration Panels Announced 1:12:35

6M ago1:12:35

1:12:35

On this episode of The Youtini Show, we break down the reveal of Mara Jade Skywalker’s legacy lightsaber, the four main panels confirmed for Star Wars Celebration, and exciting new details about The Mandalorian & Grogu from Disney Parks. Plus, we take a behind-the-scenes look at Andor Season 2 and what it means for the future of Star Wars storytell…

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The Athlete’s Mindset in the Classroom: The Power of Confidence, Goal-Setting and Positivity in STEM - Kathy Meyers, Teacher at Corner Canyon High School 41:50

6M ago41:50

41:50

Why do so many students (and adults) believe they “just aren’t good at math”? How can educators shift that mindset and build confidence in STEM learning? In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with Kathy Meyers, a veteran high school teacher who blends sports psychology with math instruction to help students overcome se…

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Baseball’s Infamous Scandal Inspired Its Biggest Tech Breakthrough...And Changed the Game Forever - John Hankins, Co-Inventor & Owner of PitchCom 44:53

6M ago44:53

44:53

With sign-stealing scandals shaking Major League Baseball, the game needed a solution. Enter PitchCom, the cutting-edge communication technology that’s changing the way baseball is played. In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, host Matt Kirchner sits down with John Hankins, co-inventor and owner of PitchCom, to unpack the surprising origins of the…

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Kathleen Kennedy & The Future of Star Wars 49:26

6M ago49:26

49:26

On this episode of The Youtini Show, we discuss the latest on Kathleen Kennedy’s future at Lucasfilm, share key updates on several upcoming Star Wars projects, and explore the unexpected return of Episode III in a surprising way!By Youtini Podcast Network

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The Right Idea, The Right Founder: How Undercapitalized Entrepreneurs are Getting Their Shot - Jennifer Abele & Raquel Filmanowicz, Managing Partners at VC 414 44:34

6M ago44:34

44:34

Venture capital is the engine behind many of the world’s most innovative startups—but only 2% of VC funding goes to women-led businesses. Why does this gap exist, and how do we fix it? This week Matt sits down with Jennifer Abele and Raquel Filmanowicz, Founders and Managing Partners of VC 414, a firm dedicated to funding women, minority, veteran, …

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Andor Season 2 Trailer is FINALLY HERE! 59:34

6M ago59:34

59:34

On this episode of The Youtini Show, we discuss the fast-approaching Andor Season 2—though it seems Disney may have forgotten! Plus, we break down the announcement of another High Republic audio original, dive into Daisy Ridley’s latest New Jedi Order teases, and look ahead to this week’s major releases: The Mask of Fear and The Rise of Skywalker a…

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Can U.S. Manufacturing Keep Its Edge? What it Will Take to Compete Globally in 2025 - Congresswoman Haley Stevens 38:20

6M ago38:20

38:20

How does the U.S. stay competitive in manufacturing, EVs, and AI while protecting innovation and growing the workforce? Manufacturing has always been the backbone of Michigan’s economy, and few people understand this better than Congresswoman Haley Stevens. Representing Michigan’s 11th District, she has spent her career championing industrial polic…