The Empower Podcast

What does it take for a struggling city to turn the corner?   In this episode of The Empower Podcast, Grant Callen sits down with urban strategist and entrepreneur Josh McManus to discuss the rise, decline, and revitalization of American cities, and why he believes Jackson still has enormous potential.   Drawing on decades of work in places like Chattanooga, Detroit, Cleveland, and New Orleans, Josh explains the long-term forces that have reshaped cities across America and why Jackson's challenges are not unique. He argues that the key to renewal is restoring "the right to rise" — helping people believe they can build a better life where they are. Cities thrive when people embrace a culture of abundance rather than scarcity, rejecting the idea that one group's success must come at another's expense.   They also discuss the redevelopment of the former Chastain Middle School campus on Northside Drive and how projects like The Redeemer's School can help anchor neighborhood renewal. If you care about the future of Jackson, Mississippi, and the future of American cities, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.  

Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson returns to the Empower Podcast as he launches his campaign for Lt. Governor. In this conversation, Grant sits down with Watson for a more personal look at the experiences and convictions that have shaped his leadership. From growing up on the Gulf Coast in a blue-collar, faith-centered family to his work in the State Senate and as Secretary of State, Watson reflects on how those influences guide his approach to public service. They discuss faith, family, education, and the future of Mississippi, along with Watson's vision for leadership rooted in consistency, conviction, and a commitment to serving others.

Lawmakers returned to Jackson expecting veto overrides, but what followed was one of the more unusual endings to a legislative session in recent memory. We unpack the final day's twists, the political fallout, and close the book on the 2026 session.

In a time of growing global instability, the role of American strength is back at the center of the conversation. In this episode, Grant sits down with Roger Wicker, Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Mississippi's senior senator. From rebuilding America's military strength to confronting the "axis of aggression," Senator Wicker offers a behind-the-scenes look at the decisions shaping global security. They discuss modernizing the military, why deterrence still matters, and how the U.S. should respond to threats from China, Russia, and Iran. Wicker also makes the case for standing firmly with Ukraine in its fight against Vladimir Putin. The conversation also turns to Mississippi's recent momentum, from the decision to change the state flag to the growing push for school choice and broader efforts to create opportunity across the state.

The 2026 legislative session is over… or is it? We break down the budget, education legislation, and a host of other bills that made it across the finish line during a busy week at the Capitol. 

Public safety is foundational to strong communities, but too often, the policies we rely on to reduce crime are driven more by intuition than evidence. As Mississippi and states across the country look for ways to build safer neighborhoods, it's worth asking a simple question: what actually works?   In this episode of The Empower Podcast, host Grant Callen sits down with Dr. Jennifer Doleac, Executive Vice President of Criminal Justice at Arnold Ventures and author of The Science of Second Chances. Dr. Doleac shares how she became an economist focused on criminal justice policy and walks through what decades of research reveal about deterrence, recidivism, and the effectiveness of our current system. The conversation explores why increasing the certainty of consequences matters more than increasing their severity, how simple interventions like text message reminders can reduce failures to appear in court, and why leniency for first-time offenders can actually lead to better long-term outcomes. They also discuss the role of prisons, what rehabilitation should look like, and how policymakers can move beyond ideology to implement solutions that truly reduce crime.   This is a data-driven conversation about how to create safer communities, by focusing not on what sounds tough, but on what actually works.

In this Conference Weekend Edition of Capitol Chat, we break down key dates and legislative processes for the remaining 9 days of the 2026 Session. We also dive into the latest on teacher pay raises, PBM reform, a controversial veto, and banning lab-grown milk.

With only a few weeks remaining in the 2026 legislative session, lawmakers are narrowing their focus. This week, we take a look at three issues dominating discussions at the Capitol and what's on the horizon as the 2026 session winds down.  

In this episode of The Empower Podcast, host Grant Callen sits down with State Representative Sam Creekmore, chairman of the House Public Health and Human Services Committee, for a wide-ranging conversation about the major healthcare issues facing Mississippi. From certificate of need reform and rural hospital access to mental health, ibogaine research, and scope of practice, Creekmore explains how he is thinking through the state's most pressing health policy debates. He reflects on how his personal experiences and conversations with families affected by addiction have shaped his legislative priorities. He also discusses the role of innovation in Mississippi policymaking, the challenges of legislating in a complicated healthcare system, and why he believes the state must be willing to tackle hard problems if it wants a healthier future.

At the Mississippi Capitol, nothing is truly dead until it's dead, dead, dead. This week's episode features the resurrection of teacher pay raises, movement on pharmacy benefit manager reform, and the latest on a controversial NIL tax proposal.

In this episode of The Empower Podcast, host Grant Callen sits down with Dr. Clay Routledge, Executive Vice President of the Archbridge Institute and Director of the Human Flourishing Lab, to explore what really makes life meaningful and why that matters for public policy in Mississippi and beyond.   They discuss how work contributes to dignity and purpose, the psychological components of meaning, why "earned success" matters for well-being, and how public debate often overlooks human flourishing when it focuses solely on economic metrics. Along the way, they explore cultural attitudes about hope, AI's impact on work and community, and what it would take to help more people not just get ahead, but thrive.   This conversation bridges psychology, public policy, and practical ideas for helping Mississippians and all Americans build flourishing lives, not just higher incomes.

As another committee deadline approaches, some bills are gaining steam while others quietly stall. In this week's episode, we unpack a significant school choice–adjacent tax credit bill, a proposed workforce initiative, and a handful of other bills that could either advance or die in the coming days.

It was a budget-heavy week under the Dome, with more than 100 appropriations bills clearing a critical hurdle. We unpack the latest on education funding, the lingering school choice conversation, and what to watch as the session heads toward its next deadline.

What does it look like to defend the Constitution with your life, and then keep defending it with your career?   In this episode, Grant sits down with Aaron Rice, a Mississippi Marine and Purple Heart recipient who was wounded in Iraq and later became a constitutional lawyer. Aaron is the Founder & CEO of American Dream Legal, a Mississippi-based public interest law firm that represents individuals for free when government action unlawfully blocks their ability to work, build, and provide for their families. Aaron shares where he was on 9/11, why he joined the Marine Corps, and the story of the explosion on March 18, 2005 that changed his life. From there, he walks through his journey home, marriage, recovery, law school, and the path that led him to take on cases that challenge anti-competitive barriers and government overreach. Grant and Aaron also dig into a question that keeps resurfacing in Mississippi policy debates: Is school choice constitutional in Mississippi? Aaron explains Section 208, why ESAs differ from direct funding of private schools, and how state and federal legal precedent shapes the debate. If you care about liberty, opportunity, and what it means to pursue the American Dream in Mississippi, this conversation is for you.

From floor votes to a few "spirited" House measures, Week 6 had a little bit of everything. We break down the education bills still moving, the buzz around a recent voice vote, and what's brewing as lawmakers eye the next big deadline.

Week 5 at the Capitol featured some of the most consequential policy and political moves yet. In this episode, we walk through some of the biggest developments, including shifts in the education debate, major House action, an update on the ballot initiative, and another big deadline on the horizon.

As the 2026 legislative session moves forward, the conversation around school choice continues to intensify. While much of the focus has been on ESAs and public school transfers, one form of public school choice has quietly served thousands of Mississippi families for years: public charter schools. In this episode, Grant sits down with Dr. John Dixon, Executive Director of the Mississippi Charter Schools Association, to break down what charter schools are, how they differ from traditional and magnet schools, and who they are designed to serve. They discuss common misconceptions, how charter schools are performing, what accountability should really mean in education, and why parent demand is one of the strongest measures of success. The conversation also explores how Mississippi's charter law could be improved, the potential for innovative and workforce-aligned school models, and why expanding high-quality public school options is an important next step in building on the state's recent education momentum.

A shortened week at the Capitol didn't significantly stall progress ahead of a critical deadline next week. In this episode, we dive into the latest on House Bill 2 and highlight some intriguing bills that are already making their way through the legislative process.

With an ice storm looming and the bill introduction deadline behind them, lawmakers shifted gears during week three of the legislative session. We highlight a few bills drawing early attention and break down this week's action, including a couple of celebrity appearances and the latest on House Bill 2.

In this episode of the Empower Podcast, Grant Callen sits down with Governor Tate Reeves for a wide-ranging conversation about the state's growing momentum and what comes next.   Recorded from the Governor's office overlooking the State Capitol, the discussion explores why Mississippi is climbing national rankings for wage growth, household income growth, and overall economic performance. A central theme of the conversation is education as economic development. Governor Reeves explains how Mississippi's historic education gains have strengthened workforce readiness, made economic recruitment easier, and drawn national attention to the "Mississippi model." He also discusses why continuing that progress through education freedom and school choice remains essential to sustaining long-term growth.   Throughout the conversation, Governor Reeves repeatedly emphasizes the dignity and necessity of work as the foundation for solving many public policy challenges. He offers a candid discussion of labor force participation, why that measure matters, and how connecting more Mississippians to work remains critical to sustained prosperity. Don't miss this episode!

A sweeping education bill, hours of debate, and a narrow House vote put school choice at the center of Week 2 action. In this edition of Capitol Chat, we unpack what happened with House Bill 2, take a quick look at early budget hearings, and highlight a few things to look forward to next week.

Capitol Chat is back for the 2026 legislative session, and week one is already moving fast. Host Wil Ervin highlights early Senate action on teacher pay and public school choice, a sweeping House education bill, and a major Senate proposal to shore up PERS, setting the tone for a busy session ahead.

On this episode of The Empower Podcast, host Grant Callen sits down with Commissioner Andy Gipson—Mississippi's Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce, former state legislator, Baptist minister, cattleman, and announced candidate for governor. Gipson shares how his journey into public service began with a desire to secure a better future for his children, and why he believes strong families are the foundation of a healthy culture, safe communities, and a thriving economy. They revisit his decade in the House, including his role in landmark pro-life and Second Amendment legislation, then dive into his work leading the agency responsible for the state's largest industry: agriculture. Grant and Commissioner Gipson also explore his pro-family policy agenda: accelerating income tax relief for married couples, tackling property taxes, cutting sales tax on essentials for kids, expanding childcare and work opportunities, and supporting school choice so parents have more tools to help their children thrive. They close with a discussion on public safety, prison re-entry, and how smarter corrections policy can strengthen families and the workforce. Recorded as our final episode of the year, this conversation looks ahead to the 2026 legislative session and what it will take to keep Mississippi's momentum going.

On this episode of The Empower Podcast, host Grant Callen sits down with Mississippi State Senator Rod Hickman, a lawyer, educator, and public servant representing a stretch of communities across East Mississippi from Macon to Louisville to Meridian. Sen. Hickman shares how growing up in Noxubee County shaped his passion for public service, why he left a law career in Jackson to return home, and the opportunities he sees for rural communities like his. In this conversation, we unpack the intersection of justice reform, education policy, and economic mobility—and how each plays a role in helping more Mississippians rise. We dive into crime, clearance rates, the realities of prosecution, the public defender system, and Mississippi's Fresh Start Act, breaking down what these issues mean for families. Senator Hickman also walks through several of the bills he authored this past session, including efforts tied to dyslexia research among inmates, and criminal justice reform. Tune in for an engaging conversation.

On this episode of The Empower Podcast, host Grant Callen talks with Dr. Brad Wilcox, Director of the National Marriage Project at the University of Virginia and author of Get Married: Why Americans Must Defy the Elites, Forge Strong Families, and Save Civilization. Dr. Wilcox shares striking research on how marriage shapes economic mobility, child wellbeing, and community stability—and why family decline fuels many of America's biggest challenges. With marriage rates down more than 50% in the past half-century, he highlights powerful data: kids from intact families are four times more likely to graduate college than end up in prison, and neighborhoods with more two-parent households drive upward mobility for poor children. Drawing on years of research, Dr. Wilcox explains how family structure underpins education, work, and public safety, core issues in Empower's mission to expand opportunity in Mississippi. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on reclaiming family as the foundation for opportunity.

What does it take to turn around a city? In this special episode recorded at Jackson City Hall, host Grant Callen talks with Mayor John Horn about his love for Jackson, the lessons from his childhood and career in public service, and his mission to restore trust, safety, and opportunity in Mississippi's capital. From fixing potholes to fighting crime and strengthening schools, Mayor Horhn shares his bold and hopeful vision for Jackson's future. He also discusses the importance of community engagement, partnerships with local, state, and federal leaders, and leveraging Jackson's unique cultural and economic assets to attract families and businesses back to the city. Whether you're a Jackson resident or simply care about the future of Mississippi, this conversation offers insights, inspiration, and a roadmap for meaningful change.

On this episode of the Empower Podcast, Grant Callen sits down with Dr. Steven Skultety, Director of the Declaration of Independence Center for the Study of American Freedom at the University of Mississippi. They explore the foundations of American democracy, the origins of rights, and why civil disagreement is essential to a thriving society. From natural rights vs. legal rights to the First Amendment's protections, Dr. Skultety shares insights on political violence, the uniqueness of the U.S. Constitution, and how freedom underpins everything we value. A timely conversation for anyone who cares about liberty, governance, and the future of America.    

On this episode, host Grant Callen sits down with historian Jere Nash, a Greenville native, retired political consultant, and co-author of award-winning books. Jere's latest work, Reconstruction in Mississippi, 1862-1877, offers a definitive look at a pivotal era. We discuss why Jere chose to explore Reconstruction, debunk common myths, and examine the era's lasting impact on Mississippi's racial and economic landscape. From the Emancipation Proclamation's effects to the rise of the Black Codes, the Freedmen's Bureau, and the 1868 Constitution, Jere unpacks the challenges faced by Black and white Mississippians post-Civil War. Learn how Mississippi's geography, demography, and economy shaped Reconstruction, why "40 acres and a mule" never materialized, and what lessons from this era apply to today's racial dynamics. Tune in for a compelling conversation on history, policy, and Mississippi's path to a brighter future.   "The Mississippi Legislature Changes the State Flag" by Jere Nash: https://www.mississippihistory.org/sites/default/files/admin/content/files/Nash%2C%20Jere_The%20Mississippi%20Legislature%20Changes%20the%20Flag_SpringSummer%202022.pdf   Reconstruction in Mississippi, 1862 -1877: https://www.upress.state.ms.us/Books/R/Reconstruction-in-Mississippi-1862-1877

More than just a paycheck, work is the foundation of prosperity and the pathway to earned success. This week, host Grant Callen sits down with Rebekah Staples President & Founder of Free State Strategies and a Contributing Fellow at Empower Mississippi. Hailing from The Free State of Jones (County), Rebekah shares her journey from working in Governor Haley Barbour's office during Hurricane Katrina to shaping major economic policies under Lieutenant Governor Tate Reeves. They dive into the dignity and joy of work, Mississippi's challenges with labor force participation, recent progress in wages and job growth, and bold reforms like income tax elimination and school choice. Grant and Rebekah discuss why work is central to economic mobility, why so many Mississippians are outside the workforce, and how policies can better connect opportunity with responsibility. They also explore the future of Jackson, Rebekah's leadership on the Capitol Complex Improvement District, and her hopes for Mississippi's trajectory. Whether you're interested in public policy, the dignity of work, or the future of Mississippi, this conversation is for you. 

On this episode, host Grant Callen sits down with Mississippi's 40th Attorney General Lynn Fitch. A Holly Springs native, General Fitch has 35 years in public and private legal service, made history as the state's first female Attorney General, and earned national recognition for her leadership. We talk about her roots, her legal career, and her pivotal role in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, the landmark Supreme Court case that overturned Roe v. Wade. She also shares insights on fighting human trafficking, protecting children online, preserving Title IX, and her support for school choice. Additionally, we preview the upcoming Mississippi Women's Summit and pose the question on many minds: Is a run for governor in her future? Tune In. 

With Speaker Jason White and Governor Tate Reeves signaling school choice as the top priority for the 2026 legislative session, momentum is building—but so is the opposition. On this episode, host Grant Callen sits down with the Chairman of the Mississippi Republican Party for a deep dive into the heated debate surround school choice. Grant and Mike unpack the myths, address concerns like constitutionality and the impact on public schools, and explore what's at stake for Mississippi's families and future. And stick around to the end for some thoughts on the 2027 governor's race, which is already in full swing.

Fresh off his speech at the Neshoba County Fair, Mississippi's 62nd Speaker of the House, Jason White joins host Grant Callen for this episode of the Empower Podcast. We recap his fair speech and talk about the experience of walking out on that storied stage at Neshoba. We discuss the impact of President Trump's Big Beautiful Bill and the Speaker's plans for a similar omnibus bill, which will incorporate a range of education reform priorities to build on the Mississippi Miracle and our recent economic achievements. The Speaker makes his case for education freedom and why this is the moment for Mississippi to join the school choice revolution that is sweeping the country. He explains why the House is prioritizing the next generation over the next election, and challenges both policymakers and citizens to think about who current systems are really serving. He previewed the upcoming House Select Committees on voting rights, PERS, and revitalizing Jackson, explaining how his priorities focus on dismantling barriers to ensure more Mississippians can thrive.

In this episode, host Grant Callen sits down with former Mississippi House Speaker Philip Gunn to trace his journey from Clinton's small-town roots to state leadership. Gunn shares how a personal tragedy at Ole Miss Law upended his life, yet God's faithfulness sustained him, strengthened his faith, and taught him resilience. From his 2003 House race to winning the Speaker's gavel, he reveals lessons from the political trenches. We dive into his proudest wins: helping overturn Roe v. Wade, driving education reform, and changing Mississippi's flag. Is a 2027 gubernatorial run next? Tune in for his answer and a vision for a thriving Mississippi where everyone can rise.

Join us on the Empower Podcast as we dive into the transformative world of industry-specific high schools with Dr. Keri Ingraham, whose recent policy brief at the American Enterprise Institute, "The Case for Industry-Specific High Schools," is sparking conversation. In this episode, Dr. Ingraham explains why these specialized schools are a timely solution to align education with labor market demands, offering students industry-recognized credentials and hands-on training. From the success of schools like West Michigan Aviation Academy to the broader education freedom movement sweeping the nation, we explore how this model empowers students and complements traditional education. Tune in to discover why states like Mississippi could lead the charge in reimagining education for the future!   The Case for Industry-Specific High Schools: https://www.aei.org/research-products/report/the-case-for-industry-specific-high-schools/

In this episode, host, Grant Callen sits down with State Representative Lee Yancey, a seasoned lawmaker with 11 years of service in the Mississippi Legislature. A one-time Senator, Rep. Yancey now chairs the House Business and Commerce Committee and serves on eight other committees including Drug Policy. This conversation covered a litany of bills from the regular and special sessions, including bills on minors' healthcare, occupational licensing reform, kratom, hemp, and cannabis regulations, and *checks notes* that's right, school choice. We also tackle the state of the medical marijuana industry, the drug war, and Mississippi's progress overcoming poverty and learning to win in education. Don't miss this episode!

Representative Jansen Owen is a key leader in the Mississippi House of Representatives. In his six-year legislative career, he has already seen several of his bills signed into law. In this episode of the Empower Podcast, host Grant Callen speaks with Rep. Owen about the recently completed special session and the tension between the two chambers. Rep. Owen offers an insider's perspective on what really happened—and why it matters. They also discuss education freedom, exploring the future of portability, charter schools, the Tim Tebow Act, Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), and the fight to expand opportunities for every Mississippi student. Rep. Owen doesn't hold back, criticizing the so-called Parents' Campaign for failing to represent parents and students. Additionally, as a vocal supporter of criminal justice reforms, Rep. Owen shares his passion for second chances, discussing his support for parole reform, the Fresh Start Act, work release programs, and the restoration of voting rights for felons. This conversation covers a wealth of topics, so don't miss it. Tune in!

Lawmakers were called into Special Session to adopt a $7.135 billion budget for State Fiscal Year 2026 after failing to adopt a budget during the 2025 regular session. Although it lasted only two days, the Special Session was not without drama and excitement. We break down all the action in a special (session) edition of Capitol Chat.

State Senator Brice Wiggins (R-Pascagoula), Chairman of the Judiciary-A Committee, joins Grant Callen to discuss his journey from prosecutor to legislative leader. Representing Jackson County since 2011, Senator Wiggins shares insights into his proudest legislative achievements, including 2014's House Bill 585 that reshaped Mississippi's criminal justice system, reducing incarceration rates and saving taxpayers millions. They also discussed the Early Learning Collaboratives, the Literacy Based Promotion Act, Medicaid Expansion, income tax elimination, and school choice. Plus, hear his prediction about the upcoming special session. 

In this jam-packed episode, host Grant Callen serves up a buffet of political topics with Russ Latino, Founder & CEO of Magnolia Tribune. From the highs and lows of President Trump's first 100 days—covering tariffs, taxes, and the "Big Beautiful Bill"—to Texas' groundbreaking $1 billion school choice program and Mississippi's historic income tax phase-out, no stone is left unturned. We dive into the state's legislative wins, the wide-open 2027 race for governor, and contemplate the next big reform for Mississippi's future. Tune in for a lively discussion that's as diverse as it is insightful.

Mississippi's economy is on fire! In this episode, host Grant Callen sits down with Bill Cork, Executive Director of the Mississippi Development Authority, to discuss Mississippi's economic surge. With the state ranking No. 2 in the nation for GDP growth in 2024, record-breaking employment numbers, and over $32 billion in new business investments under Governor Tate Reeves' leadership, Mississippi is experiencing unprecedented momentum. Bill shares insights into the strategies behind landing major projects like Amazon Web Services' $10 billion data centers, the role of workforce development, and how Mississippi is overcoming its historical challenges to become a magnet for hyperscale companies. Tune in to hear about the ripple effects of these developments on communities statewide, the impact of policy wins like tax reform, and what's next for Mississippi's economic future. 

This week, host Grant Callen dives into the world of charter schools with DeArchie Scott, Founder of Ambition Prep, Mississippi's top-performing public charter school located in west Jackson. Ambition Prep is a B-rated school (and climbing) and is the most academically successful open-enrollment public elementary school in Jackson. In this episode, we explore the impact of charter schools 12 years after their introduction to Mississippi, debunk common misconceptions, and hear inspiring stories of transformation from the frontlines of education. DeArchie shares his journey, the innovative two-teacher model, and his vision for the future of education in the state. Whether you're a parent, educator, or advocate, this conversation is for you. Tune in!

Sine Die!

The countdown is on! Only 9 days remain in the legislative session. This week, the Governor signed House Bill 1 into law, and this weekend is crunch time on appropriations and revenue bills. All that, and more, on this week's episode of Capitol Chat.

Following in the footsteps of the legendary radio host Paul Gallo, Richard Cross has quickly become a significant player in every public policy debate because he interviews the policymakers. Every morning Richard welcomes heavyweights like the Governor, Lt. Governor, Speaker, U.S. Senators, and lawmakers from across the state, asking insightful questions until he gets to the root of the issue. This week, host Grant Callen sits down with Richard Cross so you can get to know him, his story, how Mississippi has shaped him, and how he thinks about public policy.  Tune in! 

A little luck of the Irish helped push an income tax elimination bill over the finish line this week. We'll dive into House Bill 1 and what it means for you, as well as what's next in the legislative session, on this week's episode of Capitol Chat.

Week 10 was filled with excitement and acronyms! On this week's episode we cover DEI, PBMs, and THC, as well as everything else you need to know from this week at your state Capitol. 

In this episode host Grant Callen sits down with Dallis Ketchum, a real estate broker, co-founder of NeighborHouse, and a dedicated community leader in Jackson. Dallis recounts how entrepreneurship became his defining path, from an unforeseen shift into real estate following his paramedic career to launching a business amid the 2008 housing crisis. Together, they explore the spirit of Mississippi's capital city—its unique strengths, persistent challenges, and untapped potential. Dallis reflects on Jackson's evolution since 2005, the impact of initiatives like the Belhaven Mountain Bike Trails, and what it will take to make the city a thriving hub for families and businesses. Tune in!

Dead or alive? That's the key question this week as another big deadline has come and gone. With yet another key deadline on the horizon, we'll highlight some of the bills that are still moving forward this session – at least for now.

Taxes, taxes, taxes. That and other news from the Capitol this week, including a new entry on "how a bill really becomes law – or doesn't."   Empower Mississippi's Tax Calculator: https://empowerms.org/2025-tax-calculator/