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EJB Talks: Rutgers Bloustein School Experts

EJB Talks: Rutgers Bloustein School Experts

By Bloustein School

Faculty, staff, and guest experts from the Edward J. Bloustein School at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey talk about public policy, urban planning, public health, health administration, and informatics.
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Using Data and Emerging Technologies to Improve Urban Life

EJB Talks: Rutgers Bloustein School ExpertsMay 11, 2020

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20:43
Housing, Health, and Equity: A Conversation on Addressing Complex Interconnected Issues Through Collaboration

Housing, Health, and Equity: A Conversation on Addressing Complex Interconnected Issues Through Collaboration

Our EJB Talks podcast this week features Joel Cantor⁠, Distinguished Professor of Public Policy and Director of the Rutgers Center for State Health Policy and Kathe Newman, Professor and Director of the Ralph W. Voorhees Center for Civic Engagement. They are part of a new Rutgers initiative, the Housing and Health Equity Cluster, which aims to address health equity issues through interdisciplinary collaboration across university departments. Professor Newman discusses how, through her urban planning work, she became interested in the connection between lack of affordable housing and poor health. Professor Cantor's research into the health conditions of vulnerable populations utilizing Medicaid was often linked to long-term chronic homelessness. They explain how housing and health issues are deeply intertwined, with one constantly impacting the other in a cycle that is difficult to break. The work of the HHE cluster seeks to better understand these relationships and challenges through data analysis informing policy solutions for a better future for permanent supportive housing.

Mar 26, 202416:58
Understanding the Politics of Community Health Centers and Place-Based Healthcare with Emily Parker

Understanding the Politics of Community Health Centers and Place-Based Healthcare with Emily Parker

This week Stuart Shapiro talks to Assistant Professor Emily Parker about her research interests in community health centers and how they originated from her work assisting with Affordable Care Act implementation in New York state. In this EJB Talks episode, she explains what federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) are and their history in serving underserved communities. Parker discusses how FQHCs have avoided partisanship despite being government-funded, in part by appearing private and not emphasizing their government support. Her qualitative research has found that many patients were unaware and even surprised, of the government support of FQHCs. Shapiro also asks about Parker's place-based policy research on programs that target funding geographically, and how that fits in in her new surroundings at the Bloustein School. Having a health policy research background, Parker is looking forward to understanding her research from the different methodological approaches of her new urban planning colleagues.

Mar 05, 202418:32
Exploring the Path to Health Administration: Insights from Professor Jane Kaye

Exploring the Path to Health Administration: Insights from Professor Jane Kaye

Dean Stuart Shapiro talks about the path to a career in health administration with Assistant Teaching Professor Jane Kaye on EJB Talks this week. Professor Kaye shares her unconventional path to healthcare which began in art history. After working in various policy roles she went on to obtain an MBA, eventually becoming a hospital CFO. She discusses the complexities of hospital revenue cycle management and billing, noting how the U.S. healthcare system has evolved to become overly complicated for patients to understand. They also discuss the challenges of hospitals balancing patient care and financial operations. Professor Kaye closes with the reasons why healthcare administration remains an appealing career option for students, given the many opportunities available, and what she aims to teach students to help them succeed and make positive changes in the industry.

Feb 21, 202417:51
EJB Talks--Brandon McKoy MCRP '13 on Policy and Strengthening Democracy in New Jersey

EJB Talks--Brandon McKoy MCRP '13 on Policy and Strengthening Democracy in New Jersey

Stuart Shapiro returns for our 10th season of EJB Talks with alumnus Brandon McKoy MCRP '13, who was recently named the president of The Fund for New Jersey. An alumnus of the Bloustein School's urban planning program, Brandon talks about his recent career advancement, including an overview of previous role at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities and his earlier time at The Fund for New Jersey. Brandon and Stuart discuss priorities for the Fund, such as supporting inclusive policymaking and strengthening democracy through improvements to electoral processes, legislative transparency, and civic engagement in New Jersey. They wrap up with Brandon sharing the message he tries to convey to Bloustein students in the classroom, encouraging them to understand the historical context of the issues they are looking at.

Feb 06, 202420:49
Navigating a Politically Turbulent 2023 and the Ominous Prelude to 2024

Navigating a Politically Turbulent 2023 and the Ominous Prelude to 2024

We're closing out the semester--and the season—of EJB Talks with a discussion of the tumultuous political events of 2023.  Dean Stuart Shapiro and former podcast producer Amy Cobb MPAP '18 reflect on the challenging year, specifically in the House, where unexpected developments have unfolded. They delve into the chaotic dynamics within the Republican Party, the potential ramifications of Kevin McCarthy's replacement as Speaker of the House, and the ongoing challenges in passing crucial legislation. The conversation then shifts to the 2024 presidential race, highlighting the likelihood of a rematch between Donald Trump and President Biden. Stuart explores the potential impact of Trump's legal challenges and the divisive nature of American politics. He also raises concerns about the state of divisiveness in the United States electorate. The episode concludes with a reflection on the broader issues facing the nation and a preview of the upcoming election.

We will be back in late January to early February 2024 with more timely discussions with experts in policy, urban planning, health, and informatics!

Dec 18, 202323:25
The Bloustein Undergraduate Experience: Rutgers Summer Service DC Internships

The Bloustein Undergraduate Experience: Rutgers Summer Service DC Internships

This week on EJB Talks Dean Stuart Shapiro talks to three Bloustein School undergraduates who participated in the Rutgers Summer Service Washington DC (RSS DC) internships. The students discuss their reasons for participating in the initiative, including its impact on academic and professional growth. Public health major Gwen Matsukawa gained valuable experience as a legislative intern, learning about the legislative process and political feasibility. Victoria Wei, a public policy major, gained experience in environmental nonprofit work and policy research at the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. Urban planning and design major Izabell Wilk interned with the DC Public Education Fund, helping implement a new grant management database and helping improve the fund’s day-to-day work. The students also reflect on the impact their DC experiences have had on their future, including potential graduate studies.

Dec 15, 202317:24
Exploring the Intersection of Architecture, Urban Design, and Technology in Urban Planning with Professor Juan Ayala

Exploring the Intersection of Architecture, Urban Design, and Technology in Urban Planning with Professor Juan Ayala

As we head into a short break during Thanksgiving week, dean Stuart Shapiro interviews Juan Ayala, a professor in the school’s world-ranked urban planning program. Their discussion begins with the distinctions between architecture and urban design, emphasizing the historical separation of individual building design and broader urban landscape planning. Ayala highlights the crucial role of urban designers as bridges between architects and planners, illustrating how comprehensive plans, driven by design research and guided by urban designers, can positively impact communities. He also talks about the evolving nature of urban design, incorporating technology, STEM, and visualization to enhance accessibility, inclusivity, and public engagement in the design process. Ayala also advocates for the use of digital technology to illustrate complex information and suggests a resurgence of visual technology for community participation with a greater focus at the government level. He concludes with a discussion of his teaching approach, where he emphasizes incremental learning, conceptual planning, and visualization exercises in his urban design courses to empower students to make informed decisions and find their unique approaches to the field.

Nov 21, 202321:09
Exploring Disability Studies: Fostering a Better Understanding of the Disability Community

Exploring Disability Studies: Fostering a Better Understanding of the Disability Community

As we continue to bring awareness to the Bloustein School's new Disability Studies minor, dean Stuart Shapiro talks to Professor Cynthia Simon, who is teaching the inaugural course for the minor this semester. Growing up as a child with a disability, Simon shares how her early studies about the civil rights movement piqued her interest in political science and law and eventually led to teaching disability studies. She talks about the importance of including people with disabilities in the discussions of diversity, equity, and inclusion. The conversation also touches on the evolution of language used to describe disabilities and the distinction between access and inclusion. Simon's goal is to educate students about disability civil rights policies and foster an understanding of the diverse experiences within the disability community. We also recently sat down to talk more with Simon about her path to disability advocacy and education -- you can read more here.

Nov 08, 202315:35
New Faculty Spotlight: Ceu Cirne-Neves | From Journalist to Health Administration: Reporting on Hospitals and Running Them

New Faculty Spotlight: Ceu Cirne-Neves | From Journalist to Health Administration: Reporting on Hospitals and Running Them

This week on EJB Talks Dean Stuart Shapiro welcomes Professor Ceu Cirne-Neves, who teaches in the Bloustein School's health administration program. Ceu talks about her journey from journalism to healthcare administration, her extensive career in hospital administration, and the significant changes in the healthcare industry that she has experienced over the years. Emphasizing the impact of patient safety, the high-reliability movement, and the value-based reimbursement model on healthcare management, she also touches upon the effects of hospital mergers on patient care. They discuss the attractiveness of health administration as a major for students while highlighting the diversity and generosity of students at the Bloustein School. Ceu ends the discussion with an explanation of her teaching goals, which include developing competency, fostering leadership, and instilling a lifelong learning mindset in her students. 

Oct 18, 202319:27
EJB Talks New Faculty Spotlight: Bernadette Baird-Zars and Gray Institutions

EJB Talks New Faculty Spotlight: Bernadette Baird-Zars and Gray Institutions

Dean Stuart Shapiro interviews assistant professor Bernadette Baird-Zars, whose research interests span land use, governance, construction permitting, and the role of community-based organizations in reshaping planning processes. They discuss her interest in planning and how it works in practice, drawing from her experiences working on urban regeneration projects during her time living in Syria. Bernadette shares her observations about the gap between policy intentions and actions in planning, highlighting the complexities and unequal implementation of rules and systems. The conversation also touches on the concept of "gray institutions," which refers to informal, daily practices in government offices that influence decision-making but are not explicitly documented or regulated. She explains how these gray institutions can exacerbate inequality and exclusion in policy processes. They conclude with a discussion of the challenges of public participation and the need for rethinking outdated participation structures, particularly in the context of climate change adaptation and coastal planning in New York and New Jersey. 

Oct 04, 202319:04
New Faculty Spotlight: Mark Paul and The Ends of Freedom

New Faculty Spotlight: Mark Paul and The Ends of Freedom

With our return to EJBTalks this fall, host and Dean Stuart Shapiro talks to Mark Paul, assistant professor and author of the recently released book, The Ends of Freedom. Mark discusses his journey into economics and environmental policy, sharing how his first working experiences in a restaurant witnessing inequality and food sustainability issues drove his interest in economics and climate change. He explains the significance of the Inflation Reduction Act in addressing climate change, emphasizing its role as a downpayment on the transition to green energy. The conversation moves into the economic rights outlined in his book, drawing inspiration from FDR's second Bill of Rights and Martin Luther King Jr.'s advocacy for economic rights. He then highlights the importance of regulation and complementary policies to achieve the goal of fully decarbonizing the economy, addressing the challenges of selling such a broad and ambitious vision in the current political climate but also pointing out the support for these ideas among voters. The episode concludes with a discussion of Mark's future work on supply-side fossil fuel policy to wind down fossil fuel assets and transition to renewable energy sources.

Sep 20, 202321:02
The Return of Not Normal - Political Check In with Stuart Shapiro

The Return of Not Normal - Political Check In with Stuart Shapiro

On our season 8 finale, Stuart welcomes Amy Cobb back to ask questions about the indictment of President Trump They also discuss what other charges may be coming next and talk about the Republican Party response. Then Amy asks Stuart for his early take on the 2024 election. 

Apr 25, 202323:10
From SARS to HIV - Inspiring a Career in Public Health

From SARS to HIV - Inspiring a Career in Public Health

On this episode of EJBTalks, Stuart welcomes one of Bloustein's new Public Health Professors, Yen-Tyng Chen. The two talk about how the personal impacts of the 2003 SARS outbreak inspired Professor Chen's interest in Public Health. Professor Chen then shares how her experiences during her PhD studies at Emory inspired her personal and intellectual interest in how race and built environments have huge impacts on health disparities. She discusses her research focusing on racial health disparities from HIV infection rates to maternal mortality rates. The two then discuss her next research interests around the public health impacts of structural racism. 

Apr 18, 202319:08
The Importance of Municipal Bonds and the Roles They Play

The Importance of Municipal Bonds and the Roles They Play

On this episode of EJBTalks, Stuart Shapiro⁠ welcomes one of our new professors in the public policy program, ⁠Ruth Winecoff⁠. Professor Winecoff talks about the inspiration behind her research on municipal bonds, and the important role they play in our country. This is particularly true for our towns and municipalities. She discusses Dodd-Frank legislation on the heels of the Silicon Valley Bank and other recent bank failures and how different aspects of the law have impacted local governments. The two then discuss municipal bond impacts on the nation's energy infrastructure through efficiencies for clean energy. Tune in for this and more.

Apr 04, 202318:53
Saving a Limb - How Health Economics can Shape Medical Treatment

Saving a Limb - How Health Economics can Shape Medical Treatment

This week on EJBTalks, Stuart Shapiro welcomes a new professor from the school's undergraduate public health program, Derek DeLia. Professor DeLia explains how he became interested in the field of health economics and talks about his 25-year career in health policy and health services research. He also shares details about his recent research regarding limb salvage versus limb amputation and the clinical solutions which vary along racial, ethnic, and economic lines. Stuart and Derek conclude with a discussion on how access to better medical care, better patient care, and better treatment options is possible through medical treatment incentives.

Mar 21, 202317:19
Administration Matters - How Bureaucracies Can Help Solve Water Issues in the Global South

Administration Matters - How Bureaucracies Can Help Solve Water Issues in the Global South

On this episode of EJBTalks, Stuart Shapiro welcomes one of our new professors in our nationally-ranked Urban Planning Program, Andrea Restrepo-Mieth. Her time in Colombia as a child to her graduate studies and her time in Southeast Asia led to her path working on water issues in the global South. She also describes her current focus on the impacts of climate change on water and water systems. They discuss good bureaucrats, and how planners and policymakers with the right technical, social, political, and economic tools — like our students at Bloustein — can make a difference by addressing and working towards solving issues like those Andrea studies. They conclude by talking about her current research, including an upcoming trip to the Galapagos Islands this summer.


Mar 07, 202318:51
New Faculty Spotlight - Biostatistician, Health Policy Researcher, Douglass Alumni

New Faculty Spotlight - Biostatistician, Health Policy Researcher, Douglass Alumni

On this week's episode of EJBTalks Stuart welcomes Professor Shar Williams. The two talk about her undergraduate roots at Rutgers' Douglass College and the inspiration that led her on her path to an academic career in public health and biostatistics. Shar shares with Stuart the research she has done in areas of depression, anxiety, suicide and PTSD and the findings that show exposure to discrimination and socio-economic disadvantages impact health outcomes. She also talks with Stuart about her future projects including research on allostatic load where Professor Williams hopes to create an index of exposures to discrimination, economic disadvantages and cumulative life stress that likely have a physiological impact. Tune in for this and more!

Feb 21, 202319:25
Public Informatics Spotlight - from Data Analytics to Artificial Intelligence Impacts

Public Informatics Spotlight - from Data Analytics to Artificial Intelligence Impacts

This week on EJBTalks, Stuart Shapiro welcomes Professor Jim Samuel, Executive Director of the school's Master of Public Informatics program Talking about his professional path from architecture to the business and finance sector, Professor Samuel explains how the global financial crisis inspired him to take a deeper look at the Big Data phenomenon. They also discuss the synergy between studying informatics and Bloustein School's other disciplines.  Jim concludes the episode by taking Stuart and listeners on a quick but deep dive into two current hot topics, Artificial Intelligence and ChatGPT. He explains their meanings, uses, dangers, and what we need to be thinking about as these changes infuse society. Tune in the for this and more!

Feb 08, 202320:25
From Nurse to Policy Professional to Health Administration Program Director

From Nurse to Policy Professional to Health Administration Program Director

It's our eighth season opener of EJBTalks! This season we are focusing on our amazing new faculty. For our first episode, Stuart welcomes the new Director of our Health Administration program, Professor Ellen Kurtzman. Ellen talks about her compelling career path, from nurse to health policy educator to health administrator. She speaks to Stuart about the commonalities in the fields she has worked on and how at each stage she focused on improving the health care delivery system and improving the health care experience. The two then discuss her research on marijuana legalization, her newest project on Marijuana Use Disorder and the policy and practical implications we face now and in the future from cannabis legalization. Tune in to find out about this and more!

Jan 31, 202314:46
More than Making the Trains Run on Time: A Bloustein Alumna at Amtrak

More than Making the Trains Run on Time: A Bloustein Alumna at Amtrak

For our last #EJBTalks episode of 2022 Stuart Shapiro talks with urban planning alum Gretchen Minneman Kostura MCRP '07. They discuss her journey from a student focused on community development to her professional work in transportation. After starting her career in the Port Authority Leadership Fellows program, she moved to her current position working for the CEO and President of Amtrak. She talks about the current challenges and opportunities facing Amtrak, from aging equipment to what the recently passed infrastructure bill could mean for the Northeast Corridor and the rest of the country. Gretchen concludes with some great advice for Bloustein students and alums starting out on their professional careers in urban planning. 

Dec 14, 202218:17
Healthcare Communicator - Performing a Vital Function

Healthcare Communicator - Performing a Vital Function

This week on EJBTalks Stuart Shapiro welcomes Bloustein alum and current Bloustein School Advisory Board member Moses Salami EJB (Public Health) '11. As the Director of Business Development and Marketing at St. Michael's Medical Center in Newark, NJ, Moses describes his path into the health administration and marketing fields. He details how a class during his senior year with Bloustein School Professor Vince Joseph opened his mind to a non-clinical health career. He talks to Stuart about healthcare marketing -- from service information to community engagement, focusing on population education and prevention practices. The two also talk about how marketing and communications were integral in keeping the hospital community, both internal and external, safe and informed during the COVID crisis. Stuart and Moses then look toward the future of health care and the biggest challenges the industry faces. Moses ends the discussion with some great advice for current and future students and alumni.

Nov 22, 202218:27
Alumni Spotlight: Making a Difference at Microsoft

Alumni Spotlight: Making a Difference at Microsoft

On this episode of EJBTalks, Stuart Shapiro welcomes alum Simon Liepold MPAP '05, who came to the Bloustein Public Policy program as part of an exchange program with Konstanz University in Germany. Simon talks about his current role as Senior Director of UN & International Relations for Microsoft. He describes his efforts on global topics like sustainability, privacy, and cybersecurity to name a few. He speaks about how his policy degree has been instrumental in his career, from his understanding of policy and decision-making to the importance of statistical analysis and excellent data. Simon and Stuart then talk about Microsoft's focus on data and leveraging ai to solve global problems to drive global good. They discuss the importance of data and machine learning in driving good decisions and policy-making and how Bloustein's newest program, the Master of Public Informatics, can play a role in the future of public policy and urban planning. Tune in for this and more!

Nov 17, 202217:57
Let's Talk Politics - 2022 Midterm Recap and Takeaways

Let's Talk Politics - 2022 Midterm Recap and Takeaways

On this episode of EJBTalks it's time to talk politics! Stuart Shapiro welcomes Amy Cobb back to recap the 2022 Midterms. The two talk about who won, who lost, competitive key races and what the future may hold. Tune in to find out more!!  

Nov 09, 202221:17
Co-Ops - Collective Democracy in Action

Co-Ops - Collective Democracy in Action

On this episode of EJBTalks Stuart welcomes Bloustein PhD alum and Drexel University Professor, Andrew Zitcer. Professor Zitcer describes his personal and intellectual journey as a PhD student at Bloustein.  He then discusses his dissertation concentration on cooperative ventures and gives details about what types of co-ops exist from food to health, who they serve and how they are a physical embodiement of deliberate, participatory democracy. Zitcer also talks to Stuart about his continued research on cooperatives with the two discussing his latest book, Practicing Cooperative: Mutual Aid Beyond Capitalism, which uses examples of co-ops in food provision, dance, and health care to illustrate the potential of this form of organization. Tune in for all the details.

Nov 03, 202218:36
Building Bloustein - A Special 75th Episode

Building Bloustein - A Special 75th Episode

It's our 75th episode of EJBTalks! For this very special episode, Stuart welcomes our former Associate Dean Dorothea Berkhout. The two talk about our school's namesake, President Edward J Bloustein and why the school bears his name.  Dorothea reflects on President Bloustein's innovative leadership, commitment to public service, his reorganization of the University and the path he paved for Rutgers' current place in the Big10. She also talks about the organizational foundation at the Bloustein school playing an invaluable role in growing the school from a couple of small programs to one that fulfills Ed Bloustein's legacy with five majors and five graduate degrees.  Find out all this and more on our special 75th episode!

Oct 20, 202219:15
Using Analysis for Advocacy

Using Analysis for Advocacy

This week we welcome back alumnus and 2022 Alumni of the Year honoree Brandon McKoy MCRP '13. Stuart and Brandon discuss Brandon's exciting career move to, and the current work he is doing at, the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. They then move to talk about national political issues, from the Inflation Reduction Act to the Child Tax Credit to the National Debt Limit and the legalization of marijuana. The two discuss our current political and societal era, how the value of expertise is questioned and how to be a trusted voice in a sea of bad analysis and hot takes. Brandon also shares invaluable advice to help prepare listeners for public-oriented careers, particularly during times like these. Tune in for a great discussion!

Oct 11, 202220:18
Bloustein's Global Reach: An Alumna's Journey

Bloustein's Global Reach: An Alumna's Journey

It's Bloustein's 30th anniversary, so this season of EJBTalks Stuart will be welcoming our amazing alums! Our first alumna of the season is Stefania Davia, who received her bachelor's in public health from the Bloustein School. Stuart talks with Stefania about the exciting career path she took around the world from her time as a student in Nicaragua, to her position with the World Food Program HIV and nutrition unit in Italy, to three years working in Lesotho in Africa working on population-based HIV impact assessment. Stefania discusses how the COVID pandemic and its impacts and challenges impacted her current position with WHO's regional office in Europe and what lessons can be learned to improve the use of data in crafting national and global responses to future public health challenges. Finally, Stefania describes the positive impacts the education and the atmosphere at Rutgers had on her career from its beginning to today. Tune in for all this and more!

Oct 04, 202215:60
Political Check-In: A Rollercoaster Ride to the Midterms

Political Check-In: A Rollercoaster Ride to the Midterms

Welcome back, listeners! For our season seven opener, it's a post-summer political check-in. Amy Cobb talks with Stuart Shapiro about four factors that have changed the prospects for the midterms for the better since May. They discuss Biden's big wins, like the Inflation Reduction Act, student loan forgiveness, and the wise choices made regarding the war in Europe. Stuart talks with Amy about the impact of the Dobbs ruling, the significance it brings to Governor's races, and what it means for the national election. And of course, the two talk about the Trump factor from January 6th to Mar a Lago and the effects on Republican congressional candidates.  Join us for all this and more and a look ahead to the rest of season seven.

Sep 08, 202219:31
Political Wrap up - The 3 -tions: Inflation, Abortion and the Election

Political Wrap up - The 3 -tions: Inflation, Abortion and the Election

As we wrap up the sixth season of EJBTalks, the midterm primaries are underway and Amy Cobb is back to talk with Stuart Shaprio about the hot topics in national politics. She asks for his take on inflation and the economy, who's to blame (if anyone), and what we face next. The two talk about the history and the possible fate of Roe V Wade, the turn to the states, and the cascading effects and threats on other precedents.  And finally, they discuss the important races of the 2022 Midterms and what the primary results and issues like abortion and inflation mean for the possible results.

May 25, 202224:25
Educating and Enhancing Transportation Officials - National Transit Institute

Educating and Enhancing Transportation Officials - National Transit Institute

On this episode of EJBTalks Stuart welcome Billy Terry, Executive Director of Bloustein's National Transit Institute (NTI), the federally funded training arm for the transit industry's extensive back-office operations. Billy talks about how he started in the transit world, and his path to his role at Rutgers. The two discuss NTI's mission to educate the administrative workforce within the multitudes of transit agencies across the nation. Billy gives an overview of the broad catalog of training that NTI offers on adhering to regulations and guidelines and the growing focus on managing and cultivating the diverse workforce.  He also discusses the new and exciting focus on training current employees to successfully transition to much needed supervisory roles. Tune in to hear about all this and more!

May 10, 202217:32
Bloustein Local Government Research Center - Serving New Jersey and its Communities

Bloustein Local Government Research Center - Serving New Jersey and its Communities

On this episode of EJBTalks, Stuart welcomes Marc Pfeiffer, the Executive Director of the Bloustein Local Government Research Center, which serves as an invaluable resource for New Jersey's elected and appointed officials. The two talk about current critical work such as the impact of the digital economy on tax policy for local governments. They explore the increasing risk of cybersecurity threats and what local governments can to do be "technology fit" to lower their risk and ease their recovery when a problem occurs. Marc also discusses one of New Jersey's long standing conundrums; the consolidation of the multitudes of municipalities. Tune in for this and much more!

Apr 14, 202218:13
Center For Green Building - Promoting Healthy Buildings and Healthy Communities

Center For Green Building - Promoting Healthy Buildings and Healthy Communities

On this episode of EJBTalks, Stuart welcomes Jennifer Senick, Executive Director of Rutgers Center for Green Building. Jennifer discusses many aspects of "green buildings" from the design of the physical space to all of the components of its total operation. The two delve into topics from the New Jersey Zero Energy roadmap and the center's integral work with the New England Energy Efficiency Partnership, to what zero net emissions would look like in buildings, and how public policy could work in favor of more green and better building practices. Jennifer also discusses her field work mostly concentrating in low to moderate income neighborhoods and environmental justice communities where we see the most critical need for green building, affordable housing and community health. Tune in for this and more!

Mar 31, 202222:23
New Jersey State Policy Lab - Addressing NJ's needs effectively, innovatively, and equitably

New Jersey State Policy Lab - Addressing NJ's needs effectively, innovatively, and equitably

On this week's episode, Stuart welcomes Elizabeth Cooner, Executive Director of the New Jersey State Policy Lab. Elizabeth talks about the Lab's mission of conducting rigorous evidence-based research that helps inform NJ policy makers on solutions to important policy questions that are effective, innovative, and always have a focus on equity. She also talks about the lab's valuable and vital collaboration between the Bloustein School and the Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration in Newark. The two speak about recent reports that the lab has worked on including ones on the impacts and implications of cannabis legalization, COVID eviction assistance, and local treatment of vacant commercial property. Tune in for more!

Mar 16, 202209:48
The War in Ukraine: A Ukranian Family Member's Perspective

The War in Ukraine: A Ukranian Family Member's Perspective

SPECIAL EDITION EPISODE 1: The war in Ukraine has stunned western observers. In this timely, special edition of EJB Talks, Stuart Shapiro speaks with two members of the Bloustein community who are personally touched by the war -- undergraduate public health major Solomiya Mykolyk, and public policy professor Andrea Hetling--both of whom have family in Ukraine.  Solomiya was born in Ukraine and emigrated to the U.S. with her family. She talks about the liberating impact of independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and the Revolution of Dignity in 2014, when protesters sought to overthrow the Ukrainian government. Today the experience is much more terrifying as Solomiya describes her disbelief at hearing news of the invasion by Russia last week, reminding us that the consequences of war have a human face.

Mar 02, 202220:06
The Russian Invasion of Ukraine: Putin's Path to War

The Russian Invasion of Ukraine: Putin's Path to War

SPECIAL EDITION EPISODE 2: The world continues to watch as the Russian invasion of Ukraine disturbingly continues. In this timely, special edition of EJBTalks, Stuart Shapiro talks with Bloustein doctoral candidate Sergei Kostiaev. A native of Russia, Sergei discusses his previous academic research and study comparing political cultures of Soviet and Nazi elites, and what led to his study of Russian lobbying in the United States. He gives Stuart and the listening audience a firsthand account of how life in Russia changed under Putin--eliminating critical media,  eliminating opposition, and eliminating any other centers of power that could oppose him. The two discuss what is currently happening including Putin's miscalculation regarding the united response from the U.S., Europe, Canada, and Japan to impose heavy sanctions that have decimated the Russian economy. Sergei also provides some of the other options Western policymakers may have to further weaken Russia, and ends the discussion with ways individuals can help the Ukrainian people.

Mar 02, 202214:45
Building Better Communities: Bloustein's Environmental Analysis and Communications Group

Building Better Communities: Bloustein's Environmental Analysis and Communications Group

This week on EJB Talks Jeanne Herb, Director of the Bloustein School's Environmental Analysis and Communications Group (EAC), returns to talk to Stuart Shapiro. Jeanne gives the history of EAC and an overview of its vision of community-based environmental planning, its connection to health and equity, and their growing focus on the intersection of environment and people in both the natural and built environments. Jeanne highlights some of their largest projects. The exciting work she talks about includes the Megalapolitan Coastal Transformation Hub (MACH), a five-year research endeavor, in the New York City, New Jersey, Philadelphia region, with 10 other institutions besides Rutgers, led by Professor Bob Kopp, researching the factors that inform coastal climate change decisions. Other highlights of EAC's research include a focus on local public health capacity, particularly in New Jersey, research support for the state Division of Disability Services' Inclusive Healthy Communities program, and Jeanne's continued commitment to teaching future leaders via her graduate course at the Bloustein School on communicating science with decision-makers.

Feb 24, 202220:39
The Voorhees Transportation Center: A Leader in Transportation Research, Education and Training

The Voorhees Transportation Center: A Leader in Transportation Research, Education and Training

Jon Carnegie, Executive Director of the Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center (VTC) at the Bloustein School, joins Stuart Shapiro on EJB Talks this week. VTC is a leader in transportation planning and policy research and education at the national, regional, and state levels. Jon talks about VTC's core strengths related to transportation in the built environment and its work in transit-oriented development, pedestrian and bicycle mobility and safety, healthy community design, smart growth, and transportation and social equity. They discuss the relationship between transportation, social justice, and the environment.  He tells Stuart about some of their exciting outreach and research including the New Jersey Travel Independence Program (NJTIP@Rutgers), VTC's partnership with the New Jersey Climate Change Alliance which is centered around decarbonizing the transportation sector, and the center's cross-disciplinary work with the Rutgers Schools of Engineering (SOE) and Environmental and Biological Sciences (SEBS) for the New Jersey Department of Transportation, just to name a few. Tune in for all the details!

Feb 10, 202218:32
The Heldrich Center : A National Center of Workforce Development, Policy and Scholarship

The Heldrich Center : A National Center of Workforce Development, Policy and Scholarship

We are opening our sixth season of EJBTalks with Stuart Shapiro, Interim Dean of the Bloustein School welcoming Kathy Krepcio, Executive Director of the Heldrich Center for Workforce Development. Kathy speaks about the incredible workforce research and scholarship conducted by the center. She describes Heldrich's extensive work on unemployment and long-term unemployment and helping dislocated workers. The Heldrich Center has worked with those laid off after the September 11 attacks and has managed the New Start Career Network program which helps long-term unemployed New Jerseyans over the age of 45. The two speak also talk about Heldrich's new work funded by the Urban Institute's WorkRise, a study which aims to assess opinions of diversity, inclusion, and equity and evaluate responses by race, gender, income, and education to be used to promote more equitable workplaces and economic opportunity. Kathy and Stuart also speak about the center's pandemic-related work researching how New Jersey delivered services to individuals eligible for benefits under the Federal Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act.

Feb 01, 202219:42
Wrapping it up: 2021 politics with Stuart Shapiro

Wrapping it up: 2021 politics with Stuart Shapiro

To close out this season's podcasts, Amy Cobb returns to pose questions to Stuart Shapiro about the year in politics. They discuss President Biden's achievements, including the Build Back Better framework, the administration's more competent COVID response, and the relatively mundane nature of the administration. The pair also delve into the current administration's woes, encompassing everything from inflation to gerrymandering and voters' rights. Stuart forewarns about Trump's expanding command over the Republican Party, how it complicates this administration's policy agenda and is deeply worrisome for the country.

Dec 15, 202125:55
Conflict, Collaboration and Consensus: How Democracy Happens

Conflict, Collaboration and Consensus: How Democracy Happens

On this episode of EJBTalks, Stuart Shapiro welcomes back two of our most popular guests. Linda Stamato and Sandy Jaffe founded and ran the Bloustein School's Center for Negotiation and Conflict Resolution while teaching at the school since its founding in 1992. Linda and Sandy reflect on their far-reaching careers and how the fields of planning and policy in general -- and the Bloustein School -- were the perfect fit for them and their work.  The two explore the current state of politics with Stuart and aim to comfort but also affirm that to have democracy, there must be conflict. It is through conflict that an advancement in public welfare occurs. Finally, the pair share the excitement they have had working with colleagues and the optimism and joy they experienced teaching their students at Bloustein.

Nov 23, 202124:32
From the Bronx to Bloustein

From the Bronx to Bloustein

On this episode of EJBTalks, Stuart Shapiro welcomes South Bronx raised, and fellow Yankees fan, Distinguished Professor Mike Greenberg. They discuss his illustrious career from professor and researcher to the Dean's office at Bloustein. Mike talks about the foundations of the school, how its multidisciplinary, interconnected programs in health, urban planning, and public policy are the reasons for its success, and how the interaction between the disciplines creates versatility and the ability to rise to complicated societal challenges. The two also take a deep dive into the National Environmental Protection Act, with Professor Greenberg describing his shock at how it came to be. He also discusses the past and current challenges NEPA faces politically and administratively. Mike shares with Stuart his greatest joy through his career; watching faculty and students develop, succeed, and advance in prestige both locally and nationally.

Nov 16, 202115:46
Fostering Democracy Through Teaching

Fostering Democracy Through Teaching

On this episode of EJBTalks Stuart welcomes Professor Emeritus Bob Lake, who helped shape our world ranked Urban Planning Program and led our doctoral program. Stuart asks Bob to share his vision of Urban Planning. Bob talks to Stuart about his book on John Dewey, and how Dewey's perspective of the Planning City, the continuous process of figuring out how best to live together, is his ideal of the practice of Planning. The two then delve into the current political atmosphere in the US, the benefits and pitfalls surrounding the current state of community engagement and its incredible importance but possible degradation to the democratic political process. Bob shares with Stuart his feeling of optimism about the future, based on his 46 years of educating astute and enthusiastic Bloustein students into democratically capable citizens who are committed to the long haul of figuring out how to make this world a better place.

Nov 04, 202121:26
Community service, teaching, expertise: A conversation with Henry Coleman

Community service, teaching, expertise: A conversation with Henry Coleman

This week on #EJBTalks we get back to telling the Bloustein School story through our retired faculty. Stuart Shapiro welcomes his former colleague in the Public Policy Program and beloved Professor Emeritus Henry Coleman. Professor Coleman talks about his “origins,” from his time as a student of economics to his work at HUD, leading to his work at Rutgers both as a faculty member and the Director of the Center for Government Services.  While at EJB, Professor Coleman served on a number of New Jersey gubernatorial transition teams as well as on the advisory boards of numerous public and nonprofit bodies. Throughout the conversation, Professor Coleman emphasizes how his service to the community and his connection to teaching students real-world applicable information was a cornerstone of his time at Rutgers.

Oct 21, 202118:18
Homecoming Alumni Spotlight: From Scarlet Knight to Policy Student to Trade Official

Homecoming Alumni Spotlight: From Scarlet Knight to Policy Student to Trade Official

It's homecoming at Rutgers this week! To celebrate, Stuart Shapiro welcomes Bloustein School policy alumnus and former Rutgers football player Chris Gough MPP '18 to EJB Talks. Chris, who works for the International Trade Administration (ITA) at the Department of Commerce, talks with Stuart about his experience as a student Bloustein, the skills the program taught him, and the path that led him to the Presidential Management Fellows program. They also discuss the work Chris does at ITA and how trade policy has become a hot topic. Chris also offers some advice to current students and fellow alumni who want to have a career that makes a difference, changes the world, and makes it a better place.

Oct 07, 202117:46
A Place for Ethics

A Place for Ethics

On this episode of EJBTalks Stuart Shapiro welcomes Professor Patrick Hill, who teaches ethics classes across Bloustein's programs. Patrick has an in-depth discussion with Stuart about ethics and its application in informing planning, policy, and public health.  Professor Hill also discusses his new book "No Place for Ethics", which centers on the United States Supreme Court and how the judicial system has come to exclude consideration of ethics and instead elevates adherence to the law over ethical concerns. Hill discusses a particularly interesting--and abominable--example he uses in his book which demonstrates how law can be impoverished without ethics.  Stuart also asks Patrick to reflect on his time at Bloustein and his thoughts about his legacy.

Sep 30, 202126:47
Rural Planner: Frank Popper and the Buffalo Commons

Rural Planner: Frank Popper and the Buffalo Commons

To celebrate the Bloustein School's approaching 30th anniversary in 2022, EJBTalks will feature some of our beloved faculty members who made the school what it is today. The first of those is Professor Emeritus Frank Popper, who spent over three decades teaching in our world-ranked urban planning program. Professor Popper shares his incredible "accidental academic" story, where he went from land use and environmental consultant to renowned researcher and the co-proposer of the concept of the Buffalo Commons. Frank talks in-depth with Stuart Shapiro about the Commons, its history, its significance, and the current economic and environmental signs that confirm the idea that the depopulated center of the country should capitalize on its heritage as the home of the buffalo.

Sep 21, 202129:38
Bloustein Alumni Spotlight: 9-11 and the World Trade Center Redevelopment

Bloustein Alumni Spotlight: 9-11 and the World Trade Center Redevelopment

We're back! As we open our fifth season of EJBTalks, our focus is on the 20th anniversary of September 11. Stuart Shapiro welcomes Jim Bach, an alum of our nationally-ranked urban planning program who played a critical role in the World Trade Center Redevelopment. Jim discusses his 30+ year career at the Louis Berger Group, a world-renowned planning firm. They discuss Jim's experience on 9-11 and Berger's role in providing technical and project management support to the Port Authority during the redevelopment of the World Trade Center site. He reflects on the profession of planning and how being trained as an integrator, along with understanding the connections between scope, schedule, and budget, allowed him to successfully work with the Port Authority and the multitudes of emotionally invested stakeholders involved in this project.  The result of these efforts was to make the site both a signature and incredibly moving piece of architecture.

Sep 09, 202116:58
Improving the public good: Health administration at the Bloustein School

Improving the public good: Health administration at the Bloustein School

On this episode of EJBTalks, Stuart Shapiro welcomes Vince Joseph, Professor of Practice in the Bloustein School's Master of Health Administration program and former Executive Vice President at Robert Wood Johnson hospital. Stuart and Vince discuss the pandemic's impact on hospital administration and education. They explore the strong connection between the Bloustein School's mission of improving the public good and its rapidly growing health administration program. Vince highlights the role hospitals play in community needs assessment, and showcases some of the many ways that current hospital administrators work to improve community access to health care. The episode makes clear that Professor Joseph and his colleagues are preparing Bloustein School students to tackle these issues in a rapidly changing field.

Jul 22, 202120:37
From the Garden State to Route 66

From the Garden State to Route 66

Professor David Listokin, a distinguished professor in our internationally-ranked urban planning program, joins Stuart Shapiro in today's episode of EJB Talks. In a wide-ranging discussion, they cover the nationwide span of David's work.  They discuss Professor Listokin's upcoming book on the demographics and population trends of New Jersey. This project gave the researchers a better understanding of the significance of the current reverse migration trends which could have major nationwide impacts. Professor Listokin also discusses a long-time passion, his work for the National Parks Service on the economic impacts of historic preservation activities on Route 66.

Jul 12, 202120:16
We haven't come a long way, baby: Sexual harassment in the workplace

We haven't come a long way, baby: Sexual harassment in the workplace

This week on #EJBTalks Stuart Shapiro welcomes Professor Jocelyn Crowley, an expert on policy issues related to gender, including child support, gray divorce, and father's rights. They open their discussion with how the Me-Too movement, which sprang up in response to high-profile sexual harassment scandals involving Harvey Weinstein and Roger Ailes, exposed the prevalence of abhorrent behavior in U.S. workplaces. This trend led Dr. Crowley to focus her current research on sexual harassment and how its effects are particularly felt by a large number of independent contractors in the often glamorized but incredibly unprotected fashion industry. They also discuss the misconception that the pandemic lessened exposure to sexual harassment in remote work situations and how those who work in the service sector have reported increased incidents. Looking towards the future, they talk about possible policy considerations and what can be done to bring more protections to vulnerable individuals.

Jun 24, 202120:29