The Dollar Crisis

We share a highly visible, universal concern: the persistent cycle of crime, drug addiction, and recidivism.

My interview with former San Jose Mayor and current Congressional candidate Sam Liccardo, provides a deeper insight into the pernicious nature of this cycle.

Sam underscores the deep-seated connection between these elements, painting a picture of a cycle that perpetuates itself but believes it can be dismantled with strategic intervention. His insights, drawn from years in public service, propose a pivot from punitive to rehabilitative justice.

At the core of Liccardo’s argument is the significant overlap between the nonviolent prison population and substance addiction. He points out that over half of these inmates struggle with addiction, a factor often leading back to crime upon release. By reintroducing supervised release and frequent testing—a method proven successful in programs like Honolulu's Operation Hope—Liccardo believes we can break this cycle.

Liccardo's philosophy extends beyond the prison walls to address homelessness, often intertwined with addiction. He advocates for focused mental health treatment, aiming to address both homelessness and its frequent companion, drug addiction. 

In essence, Liccardo’s approach to crime, drug addiction, and recidivism offers a symbiotic solution. By treating the root causes rather than just the symptoms, he envisions a transformative change that could redefine public safety, social welfare, and fiscal policy within our communities.

Everyone agrees: We are witnessing unprecedented political polarization and deep divides tearing our country's fabric. 
Since the current leadership in Congress cannot come to terms, the voters have little option but to send a message by electing new representatives and senators to Congress.
I had an opportunity to interview a newcomer in the upcoming primary elections in California. Peter Dixon has impressive international accomplishments, entrepreneurial experience, served as a marine in combat, and a common sense approach to addressing big issues.
He believes in finding creative solutions to critical priorities and has persevered through some remarkably adverse experiences.
We will discuss the big issues: Guns, border, immigration, and the national debt. Peter understands that solutions must go beyond party lines and believes it's a fundamental responsibility that unites us all. 
Peter might be the right person at the right time. I sensed a principle-based independent thinker during our interview. 
Join me in this interview and see if you find his approach refreshingly honest.

In the run-up to the 2024 elections, Anna Cheng Kramer, a candidate for California's 15th Congressional District, captures the quintessential American narrative of the underdog. 

The story of Anna Chang Kramer, who is vying for a congressional seat in California's 15th District, offers a unique insight into the immigrant experience. Kramer's narrative, which began in Taiwan, weaves through a background of finance, integrity, and a growing sense of public duty to the community.  

Kramer’s campaign, anchored in enhancing public safety, speaks directly to the growing concerns among voters about crime and support for law enforcement.

 In a landscape where safety and justice are in the balance, her perspectives offer a clear vision for policies that strive to protect and serve the community equitably. These challenges, as Kramer outlines, demand not only strong leadership but also a thoughtful re-evaluation of current legislation.

Kramer’s viewpoints on fiscal responsibility, immigration reform, and the quest for economic prosperity emerge as pivotal discussions. Her approach to these concerns reflects a deep understanding of the community’s heartbeat and the need for leadership that can navigate the complexities of modern governance. 

No one wants to admit they are being treated for depression, bi-polar disorder or having thoughts about suicide.  The fact is, today's stressful lifestyles will overwhelm the coping mechanisms of many people.  My guest believes it's time to remove the stigma and treat mental illness "just like any other disease."

Homeless encampments in commercial districts remain a visible and complex challenge.  My guest, Dr. Peter Fund, provides insights about the extent of mental illness among the homeless.

Government officials appear unable to formulate a plan to address what appears to be a broader health crisis that extends beyond the scope of traditional medical care. Voters have voiced their dissatisfaction with these encampments, which reflects both a deep-seated concern for the welfare of the homeless population, safety concerns, and the health of the community at large. 

The responsibility for addressing this issue has often been shuffled between state and local governments, yet the onus lies heavily on county governments such as the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors.  

Dr. Fung is seeking to be elected to this Board, serving the community by implementing effective healthcare policies. He has a stated focus on tackling the mental health crisis and his intent is to replicate the stroke emergency system for mental health emergencies.  Dr. Fung provides a qualified perspective on how the County could catalyze a more proactive approach to mental health. 

In today's blog, we delve into the critical role judges play in our justice system. We had the privilege of speaking with Johnene Stebbins, a seasoned deputy district attorney running for Judge in Santa Clara County. Join us as we explore the responsibilities and challenges judges face in maintaining fairness, integrity, and public safety.

We discuss the correlation between the decriminalization of drugs and the rise in homelessness. Drawing insights from our conversation with Joanne Stebbins, we explore the challenges faced by local governments in addressing this complex problem.

In 2023, approximately 3,200 venture-backed firms in the U.S. went out of business, according to data from PitchBook. These startups had collectively raised about $27.2 billion. Since the failure of Silicon Valley Bank in March 2023, this situation has been described as the most difficult year for startups in at least a decade, with many companies quietly shutting down.

So the question is: What is taking place in the early-stage investor community to navigate this re-defined landscape?  Is it business as usual or is there a new investor emphasis on quantitative tools to make better decisions on sustainable business models

Three Key Steps in Constructing the Startup Asset Class 

One fundamental building block to startup investing is defining the sectors and technologies that will fit your organization's definition of a startup asset class. A second critical step involves creating an education program to explain the purpose, risks, diversification, time horizon, and expected returns in a portfolio of early-stage technology companies. 

But what can catalyze the growth of your startup investing and the ecosystem is tapping into state funding to support innovation and economic development. 

But as many angel investor groups have discovered, it's not as straightforward as it seems. Among the challenges, you will need to identify the appropriate channels, define clear strategies, and maintain effective oversight. We're not just talking about funding here; we're discussing the art of kindling an entrepreneurial spirit that can sustain and grow an ecosystem.

In this podcast, we review how the Queen City Angels partnered with the Ohio Third Frontier Program to support the growth of a vibrant startup community. Local universities, such as the University of Cincinnati, and public corporations, such as Kroger, Proctor & Gamble, and Fifth Third Bank, made major commitments to the support and vitality of the startup community.

Universities face many challenges in their goal of educating students for engagement in the 21st century economy.

In this podcast, we delve into this transformative shift in academia, where the traditional model of university education is being reimagined and revitalized.  

The University of Cincinnati is at the forefront of this educational revolution, fostering an environment where academic knowledge meets practical application and where failure is viewed not as a setback but as a critical component of learning and innovation.

My guest is Kate Harmon, the Executive Director at the Center of Entrepreneurship. Kate discusses the strategies the University of Cincinnati employs to transform traditional academic education into an experiential journey that prepares students for the realities of the innovation-driven world. 

A Crusade for Justice

Imagine inheriting your family home, only to find a tax bill that forces you to sell. It's not fiction; it's the startling reality under California's Proposition 19. In this episode, we uncover how this law is upending lives and what's being done to challenge it.

Meet Gina C. Louis, our advocate guest driving the charge against this controversial law. Her analysis and expertise shed light on a situation that's more than just numbers – it's about preserving the inheritance structure and legacy of the family home.

In a candid conversation with our host, Jim Connor, Lydia Kou shares her journey from a reluctant council member drawn into politics by community demand to a passionate advocate for change in Sacramento.

With a focus on common sense and fiscal responsibility, Lydia Kou aims to shake up the status quo, where party interests often overshadow the needs of the people.

Her unwavering dedication to public safety and her comprehensive approach to homelessness and housing issues highlight her commitment to serving the people of California.