Virginia Focus

Major changes to federal student loans took effect July 1st, affecting the way millions of current and future borrowers pay for college. The reforms reshape borrowing limits, eliminate several repayment options, and could leave some students searching for new ways to cover the rising cost of higher education. On this episode we're talking to Financial Expert Brian Walsh with So-Fi Bank. He's going to drill down what's changing, who could end up paying more, and what financial experts say families and borrowers should be doing right now to prepare.

What if the earliest voices of American democracy weren’t speeches, but handwritten petitions from everyday Virginians? On this episode, we’re joined by Sarah Falls, Chief of Researcher Engagement at the Library of Virginia, to talk about a powerful new exhibit, “Ideas in Action: Virginians Petition their Government, 1776-1786.” It brings to life the real concerns of people during the Revolutionary era, from religious freedom to war compensation and emancipation, and shows how those voices helped shape a new nation.

When we think about something like the World Cup, we often picture the matches, the crowds, and the global spotlight, but behind all of it is a workforce that keeps everything running, and keeps communities moving long after the games are over. A new analysis from Zety is putting that into focus, breaking down the high-demand, high-paying jobs that make events like this possible, many of which don’t even require a four-year degree. From infrastructure and safety to logistics and power, Jasmine Escalara says these are careers that not only support a global moment, but offer long-term opportunity and stability in everyday life - and that’s exactly where this conversation begins.

This Father’s Day weekend, we’re stepping beyond the picture-perfect images of fatherhood we scroll past every day, and getting real about what it actually means to be a good dad, partner, and man right now. In a world where many men feel pressure to stay strong, stay silent, and somehow get everything right, today’s conversation is about breaking that mold—opening up about doubt, vulnerability, and the quiet struggles so many carry. Author Christopher Parent has been exploring those questions in an honest and deeply human way, offering insight on connection, emotion, and even humor as tools for navigating the hardest parts of life and parenting.

Every time you get behind the wheel, there’s one simple choice that can mean the difference between life and death - and yet, thousands of people still don’t make it. Seatbelts. It sounds basic, but the numbers tell a different story, and that’s exactly why Virginia is launching a new push to get drivers and passengers to buckle up. Today, we’re talking about a new seatbelt safety campaign from the Virginia DMV’s Highway Safety Office - what it is, who it’s targeting, and why it matters right now. Joining us is Director Brandy Brubaker, who’s leading the effort to change habits and save lives across the Commonwealth.

A Virginia family answered the call on their hearts when they made the leap from being homesteaders to a full scale farming in 2022. The Weldon Cooper Center reports the number of farms in Virginia was falling and dropped 18 percent between 2002 to 2022 - not to mention the drought that year. In 2025, Maranatha Farms seems to be thriving with a new storefront. On this episode, we're talking to Phil Miller the Farm Retail Manager of the farm to learn more about the journey.

When a trauma therapist is traumatized by loss, where do they turn? Trauma therapist Meghan Riordan Jarvis knew how to help her patients process grief. Although, she came undone when her father died after a year-long battle with cancer, followed by her mother’s unexpected passing while on their family vacation. The book "End of the Hour" chronicles her journey trading the therapist’s chair for the patient’s couch, where Meghan took her first steps toward healing.

Dating back to the earliest broadcasts of Sunday services at the beginning of the 1920s, religious radio stations now number over 4,000 in the U.S. On  A new Pew report examines the impact of religious radio in America. On this episode, we're talking to Sam Bestvater, Senior Data Scientist at Pew Research Center, to learn more.

Hospitals are cornerstones of the communities they serve — places of healing, hope and connection that impact lives and communities every day in ways both seen and unseen. As we end National Hospital Week, which runs May 10th through the 16th, we're talking to , Dr. Chris DeRienzo, Chief Physician at the American Hospital Association.

One small nonprofit hopes to help survivors of human trafficking and prior gang affiliation heal from the pain of their past by assisting them in the removal of “branding” tattoos and scars. To do that, they are trying to spread their message accross the country to create partnerships with organizations that employee certified and trained affiliate technicians in each state. On this episode, we're talking to Soul Survivor Ink's Executive Director Gina Jernukian about the work of the nonprofit and how to support their work.

Close to 84 million people use some type of healthcare app and many don't know that Health-related mobile and web apps are not bound by HIPAA, leaving room for risky data sharing practices. Virtru is a company that works for data security and privacy protection. On today's episode, we're talking to Mishi Choudhary, the General Counsel for Virtru to learn what ways you can protect your information.

The Mountain Empire Older Citizens, Incorporated is a group committed to preventing the unnecessary institutionalization of older persons and they do that by providing user-friendly, community-based, long-term care services which support not only the elderly in the community but the family caregivers, as well. With rising energy costs, Marsha Craiger, will explain more about the Heating and Cooling Assistance programs available for those living in southwest Virginia.

On average, every 10 seconds, a food allergy sends a patient to the emergency room. May 12 to May 18 is Food Allergy Awareness Week, and while it's two weeks away, we're taking advantage of an opportunity to help raise awareness of food allergies and anaphylaxis. We'll do that by talking to a representative of FARE, which stands for Food Allergy Research and Education. They are the leading nonprofit working to enhance the lives of allergy sufferers and foster understanding and support for their struggle. Let's learn more from FARE CEO Dr. Sung Poblete.

On this episode, we're putting the spotlight on ALICE. Who is ALICE, you may wonder. Well, ALICE lives in every community and can be found working in a diverse range of careers, including essential workers, such as teachers, healthcare providers, and retail clerks.  United Way describes A.L.I.C.E. households as those who have incomes above the Federal Poverty Level but do not earn enough money to afford a basic survival budget in their community, forcing them to make impossible choices between necessities like food, housing, child care, and healthcare. Let's learn more.

As industries face a massive need for over 600,000 new blue collar workers annually, National Careers in Trades Week hopes to help alleviate the problem. Industry leaders say there is a critical shortage where 5 skilled tradespeople retire for every 2 that enter the field. Workers of all ages are exploring the trades for rewarding and well-paying jobs with great benefits, including healthcare and pensions, and no college debt. We're learning more from Tom Martin, President of SMACNA in Chantilly, Virginia.

Cancer sucks.  No argument there.  But once you or a loved one has been diagnosed, what are the first steps and next steps to getting through this in one piece? On this episode, we're talking with Michelle Rapkin - a three-time cancer survivor who is deeply acquainted with the ins and outs of the disease. She decided to share her hard won lessons as an author herself in the new book, "CANCER SUCKS: But You’ll Get Through It."

Americans love their cars and the freedom they bring. You might be one of millions of drivers who will take the extra step and modify a vehicle to enhance safety, performance, or comfort or to increase your business' visibility. Aftermarket customization might be in jeopardy if a federal agency gets its way. On this episode, we're talking with Karen Bailey-Chapman with the Specialty Equipment Market Association, or SEMA.

For people and businesses, being prepared for natural disasters is key, and widespread outages have underscored the need for dependable satellite communication technology to ensure reliable connectivity in times of need. When internet and cell networks go down, satellite communication infrastructure saves lives by enabling emergency responders, relief organizations, and affected communities to coordinate rescue efforts in real-time. On this episode of Virginia Focus, we're talking to Josh Miner, the Vice President of Land Mobile for Iridium Communications to learn more about staying safe and connected during emergencies.

Most people love a good story, especially when there are clear "good" and "evil" characters. Maybe you also love stories about military history, about underdogs, or you love learning about the technological advances and heroism of World War Two. But have you ever read a true World War II story? On this episode, I'm talking to Jan Cress Dondi about how she turned her veteran dad's bedtime stories into book entitled, "The Navigator's Letter".

America is changing and, with what appears to be a shrinking middle class, many people worry that the American dream is also dying. A new book written by a man who served as the former CFO of the NBA, the former CEO of the NBA’s Atlanta Spirit, the former SVP of the Colorado Rockies, and a professor of Business and Sports Management at the University of Massachusetts explores how to bring back the reality of the American dream and help more people achieve it. On this episode, we're hoping to learn more from the author of "Reimagining America's Dream: Making It Attainable for All", Dr. Bernie Mullin.

Some people go through life not realizing their inherent worth, which is different from earned value. Author John Miles is also a Navy veteran, a businessman, and has written two other non-fiction books for adults. But he says his newest piece of literature, a book entitled "You Matter, Luma", encourages authenticity, kindness, and the idea that everyone has a unique contribution to make, regardless of their age, size or loudness.

Our environment, rising energy costs, and the health of American families are all hot topics but also ongoing debates with seemingly no clear, undiputable answers. On this episode, we will discuss policies, politicians, and the many factors that play a role in our every day lives and affect our wallets. Let's welcome EDF Action, the advocacy partner of the Environmental Defense Fund, and we're speaking to the group's President, David Kieve.

The Trump administration has announced many changes to the prices of prescription drugs for Medicaid and Medicare as well as Trump RX, a website for people to get deeply discounted medications online. The Biden administration used the Inflation Reduction Act to also begin lowering prices in 2026. With all the changes, does it really change the situations for the better? President of 3 Axis Advisors Anthony Ciaccia is here to help us navigate it all.

Hundreds of thousands of people aspire to break into Hollywood and only about 2% actually make it into the industry. On this episode we're chatting with a successful actor, producer, stunt coordinator, former athlete, and model with family ties to Virginia. Raw Leiba recently shot the movie, "Bloodspawn," in Loudoun County and we'll find out what's next for him and learn more about the man behind all the characters.

One of the nation’s largest and most comprehensive human services organizations is now in their second century of service. Volunteers of America Chesapeake & Carolinas is an affiliate of Volunteers of America, a national nonprofit, faith-based organization dedicated to helping people rebuild their lives and reach their full potential. On this episode we will hear from a man who says his life was saved and changed by the work of this amazing organization. Guests: Kim Coleman, Veteran and Jaci Anderson, Community Outreach Case Manager

From control freak micromanagers to dishonest manipulators, toxic people exist in every industry and sometimes they get promoted into positions managing other people. Surveys show 87% of people have had at least one toxic boss during their career. Workplace and Organizational Psychologist Dr. Laura Hambley Lovett has written the book "I Wish I'd Quit Sooner" with tips for ways to deal, and it includes practical steps with options. 

There's a new hidden epidemic in the workforce and it involves managers pushing employees out of the company without ever saying a word. In Zety’s new Quiet Firing Report, we explore how common "quiet firing" is, what tactics managers are using, and how it’s affecting employee morale and retention. Career Expert, Dr. Jasmine Escalera, will tell us more about the new workplace challenge potentially facing us all.

When you want to hear the inclusive story of Virginia's history, some people hope you turn to Encyclopedia Virginia. The mission of the site is to provide a free, reliable, multimedia resource for students, teachers, and communities who seek to understand how the past informs the present and the future. On this episode, we're focusing on the story of Thomas Fuller, an enslaved man born in the 1700's who earned renown at the end of his life for his ability to calculate numbers in his head and we'll learn more about Encyclopedia Virginia. Specifically, let's talk to Brendan Wolfe, the author of the Fuller biography and the former editor of Encyclopedia Virginia.

People all ages, from children and families to older adults, in need of help living in southwest Virginia can turn to a charitable agency known as Mountain Empire Older Citizens for a variety of services. From care coordination for older adults to public transportation and from crisis intervention for children to employment programs, the MEOC located in Big Stone Gap offers resources to those parts of rural Virginia. This holiday season they could use your help. We're talking to April Hobson, a Forensic Interviewer with the Southwest Virginia Children's Advocacy Center and Coordinator for the Kinship Care Program.

One in seven children in Virginia are experiencing hunger and it isn't their fault. The guest on this episode grew up in Virginia in a home that needed support, not only for food insecurity, meaning countless hours of aching hunger, but also support for financial and mental health struggles. Elizabeth Ford left her highly successful career in IT to found Better A Life, a charity in Loudoun County aiming to create a brighter future for children and families, breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering a society where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. 

Gingerbread and mistletoe also bring out the scammers and thieves and protecting yourself is important. Experts say consumers should be checking their credit report regularly and some of us need a "credit literacy" refresher. On this episode, we're talking to Margaret Poe, Head of Consumer Content & Global Digital Experiences for TransUnion, to learn about new tools and be reminded of other options to protect ourselves this holiday season.

Farmers and scientists are working together with goals to grow more with fewer resources, protect crops from growing threats, and build resilience against climate volatility. Since February of 2020, overall grocery prices have risen 29%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. We're welcoming Jessica Christiansen, Head of Bayer’s Crop Science Communications, to the podcast. She is going to discuss how modern science and technology are helping to ensure holiday meals and everyday meals stay within reach for American Households. 

As more people are working well into their 60s and 70s, a new survey shows most businesses aren’t taking advantage of their skills. Experts with the Society of Human Resources Management say tapping into the experienced workforce could be the solution to America's labor shortage. On this episode, we're talking to Dr. James Atkinson, the VP of Thought Leadership at SHRM, to find out  more.

The Wall Street Journal and other media are picking up the story that Gen Z is being called the Toolbelt Generation because they are disenfranchised with the college track and see rising pay and more jobs in the trades. Aaron Hilger CEO of SMACNA [[smack-na]], the trade association for the sheet metal and HVAC indust ry, can help us understand more about this trend.

A new survey by Live Career says menopause is one of the least discussed yet most disruptive workplace experiences for women. Out of the 900 women who have experienced it or are going through it currently, an overwhelming 97% feel pressure to hide or minimize the physical, mental, and emotional struggles they face while at work. Let's find out more by talking with Career Expert Jasmine Escalera.

Americans living in the White House today and throughout history are no strangers to critcism and controversy. However, one child of a former president seems to be a favorite because of her outlandish antics. On this episode, we're discussing the fascinating historical biography of America's most memorable first daughter, Alice Lee Roosevelt.  Shelley Fraser Mickle is the author of the book "White House Wild Child: How Alice Roosevelt Broke All the Rules and Won the Heart of America".

Debt is the real factor that drives both economic growth and financial crises from recessions to extreme inequality. In order to understand this paradox, we need to address why a certain amount of private debt is vital to the economy. On this episode, we're talking to Richard Vague, an author, Former Secretary of Banking for Pennsylvania, and former CEO of two banks. His book "Paradox of Debt" reveals the role that debt plays in our lives, and how we can make better use of it without leading to crisis.

If you were to suffer a spinal cord injury and subsequent paralysis, would you know where to turn? Thousands of individuals with paralysis and their families across the country are watching Congress to see if critical services will be included in the budget. On this episode, we're going to discuss how the Christopher and Dana Reeves Foundation helps people with paralysis live independently and learn how people can connect with those essential support services. Let's meet Sherman Gillums Jr, a former Marine and the Senior Director of Public Policy & Advocacy.

On this episode, we're putting the spotlight on ALICE. Who is ALICE, you may wonder. Well, ALICE lives in every community and can be found working in a diverse range of careers, including essential workers, such as teachers, healthcare providers, and retail clerks.  United Way describes A.L.I.C.E. households as those who have incomes above the Federal Poverty Level but do not earn enough money to afford a basic survival budget in their community, forcing them to make impossible choices between necessities like food, housing, child care, and healthcare. Let's learn more from the United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley.

Most people think pencils and paper, books and backpacks when they think about the back-to-school season. Officials with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security say it is a critical time to spot and stop human trafficking. To learn more about how to start a conversation about it with the young people in our lives, we're talking to Erica Reid, the Acting Section Chief for the Center for Countering Human Trafficking.

Developing skills to get along with others is as essential as reading, writing, or math for kids.  However, the digital age has removed many chances for children to learn these important social skills.  How can parents assist their little ones in naturally progressing social skills and how to get along with others?  We are learning more from Patty Bardina, PhD, and her new book, "BADI BLESBOK SAYS HELLO: A Lesson in Greetings".

Seed Your Future started the movement to promote horticulture and inspire people to pursue careers working with plants. They hope to introduce students to vital horticultural, agricultural, and floriculture jobs - including STEM, business, design, logistics, marketing, and more. During Green Career Week in October, participating businesses and organizations will connect with local schools, colleges and universities to showcase the various career paths at their business.  Let's learn more from Seed Your Future's Executive Director Jazmin Albarran.

If you are a parent, you are likely hoping to raise your kids to develop strong and resilient brains so they can live happy and productive lives. A new book written by Child Psychologist Dr. Charles Fay and Neuropsychiatrist Dr. Daniel Amen gives pratical, easy to understand advice that encompasses your childs brain and their mind to help them become adults who can successfully navigate life on their own. Let's hear more about the book, "Raising Mentally Strong Kids: How to Combine the Power of Neuroscience with Love and Logic to Grow Confident, Kind, Responsible, and Resilient Children and Young Adults" with Dr. Charles Fay.

Some Virginians grow up in the commonwealth and don't take notice of the depth of history available around every corner. But others, like Coleen Dixon, who grew up in Arlington, find themselves mezmerized by the richness of American history at every turn. Ms. Dixon calls herself the historical homemaker and believes it is important to cherish and share the memories of those that have gone before us and made our country so great.

As many workers feel anxiety about whether or not AI will replace them in the workforce, a new report reveals jobs that rely on empathy and other uniquely human skills will be what makes them also resistant to automation. On this episode, we are talking with Zety's Dr. Jasmine Escalera about the Emphathetic Jobs Report that includes positions offering good pay, growth potential, and can only be done by people like you and me.

Since 1 in 3 children in the United States deal with food allergies, it's imperative that parents be prepared and help their children and their classmates learn about the possible consequences of allergic reactions. On this episode, we are discussing innovative treatments, that latest guidance for epi devices, legislation to increase research funding, and more. Let's get more information from FARE Senior Director of Education and Support Dr. Kelly Cleary.

If you pay insurance premiums‚ you’re already a victim of insurance fraud. The FBI says because of the number of people committing Insurance Fraud, the result is it costs the average U.S. family hundreds, if not thousands per year in the form of increased premiums. The Virginia State Police believe that together, through education and accountability, we can reduce the number of insurance fraud cases and lower premiums in the commonwealth. Seasoned insurance fraud investigator Senior Special Agent Tony Royall helps us learn more.

Virginia State Police have been working to prevent auto theft since the H.E.A.T. or Help Eliminate Auto Theft program started more than 25 years ago. It is estimated that the value of stolen vehicles and parts totaled more than $120 million in 2020. Don’t become a statistic or an easy victim. Guest Host John Clark will be learning more by talking to VSP 1st Sgt. Peter Lazear.

Before colonists brought their foods from other regions of the world, indigenous people thrived on foods native to North America. A new movement is gaining traction, encouraging farms to reintroduce first foods, like persimmon, ramps, and pawpaw fruit, to help decolonize diets and reduce reliance on external food systems that may not be sustainable due to cost and climate change. Today we're learning more from Mike Ferster, a Virginia educator and pawpaw farmer, who is also joining the movement to grow and research a once popular fruit. 

Cyber breaches have evolved from simple experiments to malware like Trojans and email worms to phishing and botnets. The largest data breaches, often involving billions of records, have occurred since 2005, coinciding with the digital transformation of businesses and governments. How do you protect yourself? Let's talk to Colette Tomasiak, Director of Product Marketing at SpyCloud, to find out.