Recorded at the New Mexico State Capitol, this episode of the New Mexico Sun features Marty Saiz discussing the New Mexico Inspiration & Achievement Center—a long-term project designed to inspire students, preserve New Mexico’s legacy of achievement, and drive economic development. Drawing inspiration from institutions like the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame and the National WWII Museum, the proposed center will use interactive exhibits, AI-powered storytelling, and leadership programming to showcase New Mexico legends while supporting education, tourism, and workforce development statewide. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this exclusive interview from the New Mexico SunCast, Senator David Gallegos shares why he's running for lieutenant governor, the urgent need for leadership change, and his top priorities for New Mexico—from fixing tort reform to revitalizing rural healthcare access and defending energy industries. He speaks candidly about legislative challenges, local business success stories, and why public engagement is critical in shaping the state's future. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this in-depth interview, retired engineer Kevin Lorenzen shares a deeply personal and scientifically grounded account of electromagnetic radiation syndrome (EMR/EHS) and its devastating impact on his wife’s health. Drawing on decades of experience in engineering, semiconductor manufacturing, and health systems, Lorenzen explains how everyday technologies—cell phones, Wi-Fi routers, smart meters, electric vehicles, and Bluetooth devices—emit electromagnetic fields (EMFs) that may contribute to neurological symptoms, chronic illness, and cellular damage.The conversation explores why most medical professionals are not trained to recognize EMR symptoms, how regulatory agencies rely on outdated safety standards, and why children may be especially vulnerable to RF and microwave radiation exposure. Lorenzen also outlines practical steps families can take to reduce exposure, from hard-wired internet and disabling wireless devices to rethinking smart infrastructure.This episode challenges conventional assumptions about modern technology, raises urgent public-health questions, and urges viewers to research EMFs for themselves before symptoms become irreversible. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Michael Perry, candidate for New Mexico Land Commissioner, joins the New Mexico Suncast to discuss conservation vs. preservation, wildfire prevention, habitat restoration, oil and gas revenues, renewable energy fairness, and how state trust lands fund public schools. Drawing on decades as a game warden, state land official, and county commissioner, Perry outlines a practical, resource-driven vision for managing New Mexico’s land, water, and energy future. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Casey Parker, founder of the American Rancher Alliance, explains how independent ranchers are challenging Big Meat monopolies, lowering beef prices, restoring transparency, and rebuilding a fair, American-owned supply chain from ranch to grocery store. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this extended New Mexico Suncast interview, Nikkie McCarty, State Director of Concerned Women for America of New Mexico, discusses faith-driven advocacy, women’s sports, parental rights, SNAP dependency, education failures, digital dangers for children, and the future of New Mexico’s families and culture. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

This New Mexico Sun Cast interview highlights how the Rio Grande Food Project—Albuquerque’s largest west-side food pantry—fights hunger through weekly food distribution, a thriving community garden, volunteer programs, and long-term support services. Development Director Kathi Cunningham explains how the organization tackles food insecurity, teaches families to grow their own produce, connects residents with bill assistance, and partners with schools, churches, and local businesses to create lasting food security across the city. A compelling look at community resilience, volunteer impact, and practical ways New Mexicans can support their neighbors in need. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this episode of The New Mexico Sun Cast, citizen advocate Connie Vigil joins host Jim Williams to discuss Albuquerque’s homelessness and mental-health crisis. Drawing on her background in medical research and public policy, Vigil explains how Miami-Dade County’s integrated approach—uniting law enforcement, judges, and healthcare providers—could be replicated in New Mexico. She also details her work behind Senate Bill 1, the state’s new $2 billion trust fund for behavioral-health infrastructure, and why collaboration between universities, courts, and government agencies is key to long-term recovery and public safety. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Albuquerque City Councilor Louie Sanchez joins the New Mexico Sun Cast to discuss his 2025 mayoral campaign. Drawing on his 26 years in law enforcement and experience as a small business owner, Sanchez outlines his plans to tackle rising crime, homelessness, and government inefficiency. He shares his vision for restoring trust in city leadership, rebuilding the police force, improving city services, and strengthening Albuquerque’s economy. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this episode of New Mexico Suncast, Representative Gail Armstrong shares her journey from ranch life to state leadership as New Mexico’s first female Republican House Leader. She discusses the volunteer demands of public service, small-town roots, media misrepresentation of her op-ed, and her priorities for restoring balance in state politics—from healthcare and crime reform to protecting small business and family values. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this episode of The New Mexico Suncast, host Jim Williams sits down with Karina Armijo, Director of the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division, to talk about the state’s breathtaking landscapes, outdoor equity programs, and how outdoor recreation boosts local economies. From fly fishing in Taos to new trail investments and the upcoming Adventure Pitch Fest, Armijo shares her mission to connect every New Mexican to nature—and why slowing down outdoors can transform lives. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this episode of the New Mexico Sun Cast, Carla Sonntag (CEO of the New Mexico Business Coalition and Better Together New Mexico) and Larry Sonntag (former APD officer and chief of staff) share candid insights about crime, policing, and business in Albuquerque. They discuss how rising crime impacts small businesses, why police morale and recruitment are struggling, and what leadership changes are needed as the mayoral election approaches. This conversation highlights both the challenges and the opportunities for building a safer, more prosperous New Mexico. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Former Albuquerque Police Department officers and Chief Mike Geier speak candidly about rising crime, failed leadership, and the politicization of policing in New Mexico. From broken promises on hiring more officers to stories of unethical directives from city leadership, this in-depth discussion highlights how Albuquerque ended up at the top of the nation’s crime lists. The conversation also addresses DOJ oversight, officer morale, juvenile crime, and what real leadership would require to restore public safety. A must-watch for voters, policymakers, and anyone concerned about crime in New Mexico. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this powerful episode of the New Mexico Suncast, Jim Williams sits down with Tracy Rodden, Executive Director of Feed New Mexico Kids, to talk about the harsh reality of childhood hunger across the state. Tracy shares her own story of growing up food insecure, how the organization provides thousands of weekend snack packs to children, and why hunger is tied to bigger issues like education, poverty, and even trafficking.Learn how 90,000 children in New Mexico face food insecurity, what it takes to provide a simple $5 snack pack, and how local communities, churches, and businesses are stepping up to fill the gap. Tracy also explains how volunteers and donors can make a direct impact—whether by adopting a school, packing food, or simply giving up one coffee a week to support a child in need.If you’ve ever wondered how you can make a difference in your own backyard, this conversation will inspire you to take action.🔗 Learn more at feednmkids.org Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this episode of the New Mexico Sun Cast, host Jim Williams interviews Mayling Armijo, candidate for mayor of Albuquerque in the 2025 election. Armijo discusses her background in economic development, her Navy service, and why she left a successful career to enter politics. She outlines her vision for tackling crime, homelessness, and economic stagnation, emphasizing leadership, accountability, and restoring public trust. From her family roots in Albuquerque to her track record of bringing $1.4 billion in private investment to Bernalillo County, Armijo makes her case for a safer, more business-friendly city.Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcastsFollow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenmsuncast/Stay up to Date: https://newmexicosun.com/ Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Former New Mexico State Representative and U.S. diplomat Bob Perls returns to the New Mexico Suncast to talk about building a new political path forward. As chair of the Forward Party of New Mexico, Perls explains how open primaries, ranked-choice voting, and civil discourse can break the toxic two-party gridlock.From his background in politics and diplomacy to his leadership in New Mexico Open Elections, Perls outlines why independents now make up nearly half of American voters and how that shift could reshape democracy in the state. He also shares concrete steps for volunteers, candidates, and everyday citizens to get involved in creating more competitive, accountable elections.If you care about political reform, voter empowerment, or the future of democracy in New Mexico, this conversation is a must-listen. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this episode of the New Mexico Sun Cast, host Jim Williams sits down with Senator Crystal Brantley (District 35) to discuss the heated debate over the Mexican gray wolf reintroduction program. Senator Brantley shares firsthand experiences from life in rural New Mexico, the challenges faced by ranchers and families, and the economic toll of wolf depredations. From emergency declarations in Catron County to calls for federal de-listing, this conversation dives deep into the clash between conservation efforts, public safety, and the livelihoods of rural communities.Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In part three of our series on bringing healthcare workers back to New Mexico, Think New Mexico’s Fred Nathan and Rio Grande Foundation’s Paul Gessing tackle the state’s most urgent challenges. From Medicaid reimbursement reform and medical malpractice caps to joining interstate compacts, education incentives, and tax reform—this discussion lays out real solutions to fix New Mexico’s doctor shortage. Hear why bipartisan support is growing, what policies are on the table, and how citizens can push lawmakers to act. Learn more: Think New Mexico: https://www.thinknewmexico.org/ Rio Grande Foundation: https://riograndefoundation.org/ New Mexico Sun: https://newmexicosun.com/ 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenmsuncast/ Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In part 2 of the Suncast's Code Blue series, Jim Williams once again speaks with Think New Mexico’s Fred Nathan and Rio Grande Foundation’s Paul Gessing about the state’s growing doctor shortage. They tackle the rising cost of medical malpractice insurance, attorney fee reform, gross receipts taxes on medical services, and how these issues are driving providers away. The discussion highlights bipartisan solutions, the role of trial lawyers, and how ordinary New Mexicans can push for meaningful healthcare reform. Learn more: Think New Mexico: https://www.thinknewmexico.org/ Rio Grande Foundation: https://riograndefoundation.org/ New Mexico Sun: https://newmexicosun.com/ 📱 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thenmsuncast/ Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

New Mexico is the only state in the nation to lose doctors since 2019 — and the crisis is deepening. In this in-depth conversation hosted by the New Mexico Sun, Fred Nathan (Think New Mexico) and Paul Gessing (Rio Grande Foundation) break down the root causes of the state’s healthcare worker shortage: high malpractice premiums, low Medicaid reimbursement, and taxes on medical services. Despite their ideological differences, both offer clear, compelling solutions — including the controversial SB 88, which created a Medicaid trust fund. This is the conversation New Mexico needs to hear. Learn more: Think New Mexico: https://www.thinknewmexico.org/ Rio Grande Foundation: https://riograndefoundation.org/ New Mexico Sun: https://newmexicosun.com/ Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Certified Financial Planner Brian Cochran, President & CEO of John Moore Associates, breaks down the One Big Beautiful Bill and what it really means for everyday Americans. From tax breaks on tips and overtime pay to new deductions for seniors, car loan interest, and charitable giving, Cochran explains how this bill impacts working families, retirees, and small businesses. We also cover succession planning, estate transfers, and how biblical financial principles shape John Moore Associates’ approach to wealth stewardship. Whether you’re a retiree looking at Social Security, a family navigating child tax credits, or a small business preparing for succession, this conversation offers clarity on one of the most important pieces of legislation in recent years Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this episode of The New Mexico Suncast, host Jim Williams sits down with Jeff Apodaca and Lawrence Chavez—two outspoken advocates for building New Mexico’s economy from within. They break down why New Mexico is one of the wealthiest states on paper but continues to live like a poor one. From the untapped potential of the State Investment Council’s $63 billion fund to why we keep losing homegrown tech to places like San Diego, this conversation hits hard on infrastructure, venture capital, and the urgent need for bold leadership. If you care about jobs, startups, or keeping our kids from leaving the state, this is the episode to hear. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Welcome to the weekly headline roundup from the New Mexico Suncast. In this July 18 edition, host Jim Williams and correspondent Joaquin Romero break down the biggest stories across the state—from deadly floods in Ruidoso and fire evacuations across Grant and Valencia Counties, to boil water advisories and food assistance challenges. They also dig into corruption allegations in Española and the launch of a new local chapter of the America First Policy Institute. If you want the real pulse of New Mexico—unfiltered and urgent—this is your briefing. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this powerful episode of the New Mexico Suncast, Jim Williams sits down with Juan Garcia, chairman of the Coalition of Conservatives in Action. Broadcasting from Las Cruces, Juan shares why he got involved in politics, his thoughts on civic apathy, and how faith communities can—and should—step into the public square. The conversation touches on border security, crime, economic development, and the controversial removal of prayer at county meetings. Garcia calls for greater engagement from all New Mexicans, regardless of background, in shaping a safer, freer future for the state. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Connie Vigil is a citizen advocate and grassroots lobbyist who helped transform New Mexico's approach to homelessness and mental health. In this powerful interview, she shares her personal journey, explains the bipartisan effort behind Senate Bill 1, and outlines how the Miami-Dade model could reshape treatment—not incarceration—for vulnerable populations across the state. From coffee shop conversations to Capitol Hill, Connie proves that one determined voice can ignite statewide change. If you're interested in real solutions to substance abuse, chronic homelessness, and justice reform—this is the conversation New Mexico needs. 🎓 Learn more about the Miami-Dade Criminal Mental Health Project 📩 Contact Connie: apos1sunshine@yahoo.com 🗳️ Demand your local leaders get educated and act Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Zachary Fort, President of the New Mexico Shooting Sports Association, joins the New Mexico SunCast to discuss the rise of youth shooting sports, challenges in firearm legislation, and the link between criminal justice failures and gun crime. Fort shares his personal journey into advocacy, urges civic engagement, and explains why discipline and safety training—not bans—are the key to a safer state. Whether you're a gun owner or a skeptic, this interview brings clarity to the debate around Second Amendment rights in New Mexico. 📱 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thenmsuncast/ 📰 Check out New Mexico Sun http://newmexicosun.com Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this powerful episode of the New Mexico Sun Cast, host Jim Williams sits down with leaders from the New Mexico Dream Center and Basin Dream Center in Midland, Texas, to expose the hidden crisis of human trafficking across the Southwest. Survivors, outreach workers, and law enforcement allies discuss how vulnerable youth are preyed upon, the urgent need for public awareness, and what communities can do to fight back. From familial trafficking to AI-driven intervention tools, this conversation cuts through the myths and shows how we can all take action. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Four-term Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima joins the New Mexico Sun Cast to share his gubernatorial vision for 2026. With deep roots in the state and a unique multicultural background, Miyagashima discusses everything from geothermal desalination and housing reform to public safety, economic development, and his personal journey from small business owner to city leader. Learn how his experience in both the private and public sectors drives his data-informed, business-savvy approach to government. This is not your average campaign pitch—Miyagashima lays out real plans for water independence, criminal justice reform, and tackling New Mexico’s healthcare crisis. 🔗 Explore more: 📍 KenForNewMexico.com 📍 KenNM.info 📌 Highlights Include: - Plan to use geothermal power for statewide desalination - Prison-to-profession pipeline for affordable housing - Fixing the state’s broken medical malpractice laws - Metro police proposal to combat crime in Albuquerque - Firsthand experience with the U.S.–Mexico border Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

At just 23, Marcus Lujan is already shaping state policy as Field Director for Think New Mexico. In this powerful interview, Lujan walks us through his efforts to recruit real voices for real legislative impact—from expanding Medicaid reimbursements to tackling New Mexico’s healthcare worker shortage. With insight into bridging political divides and a passion rooted in local Catholic education, Marcus shows what it means to lead with both humility and purpose. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Kristina Fisher, Associate Director of Think New Mexico, reflects on 23 years of public policy work in the Land of Enchantment. In this candid conversation, she shares how growing up in New Mexico shaped her mission, why environmental restoration is bipartisan at its core, and how Think New Mexico tackles real-world issues with deep research, grassroots support, and practical solutions. From repealing the food tax to advocating infrastructure reform, Fisher reminds us that common sense still has a place in politics—if we’re willing to engage. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this episode of the New Mexico Suncast, Jim Williams sits down with Susan Martin, the business manager of Think New Mexico, to explore her unexpected path from theater major to nonprofit operations expert. Broadcasting from Santa Fe, they discuss the many hats she wears—from HR to property management—and how her years at the Santa Fe Opera shaped her love for behind-the-scenes work. It’s a candid conversation about dedication, arts, and the quiet engines that keep mission-driven work alive. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

On this episode of the New Mexico Suncast, host Jim Williams interviews Katie Gutierrez, the dynamic tax, budget, and economic reform director at Think New Mexico. From her roots in the East Mountains to shaping state-level policy, Gutierrez shares a forward-thinking vision for economic justice, food security, and how smart public investment can lift entire communities. The conversation tackles healthcare deserts, regressive tax structures, and the need for flexible infrastructure funds. A clear-eyed look at the trade-offs—and hope—within state policy today. 📱 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thenmsuncast/ 📰 Check out New Mexico Sun http://newmexicosun.com Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Former state legislator, U.S. diplomat, and entrepreneur Bob Perls joins the New Mexico Sun Cast to talk about leading the Forward Party in New Mexico. In this powerful conversation, Perls shares why he’s stayed rooted in New Mexico, his long fight for open primaries, and his mission to unite voters across the political spectrum. He discusses the broken duopoly of American politics, the urgent need for electoral reform, and how the Forward Party offers a commonsense, community-driven alternative that refuses to play by partisan rules. With New Mexico’s political future in the balance, Perls lays out the roadmap for meaningful change—and how you can help build it. 📱 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thenmsuncast/ 📰 Check out New Mexico Sun http://newmexicosun.com Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Jim Williams sits down with Mandi Torrez, Education Reform Director at Think New Mexico and 2020 New Mexico Teacher of the Year, to discuss the deep challenges and promising solutions in New Mexico’s public education system. From class size caps to teacher residencies and literacy reform, Torres explains how sustainable, thoughtful change—modeled on real successes in states like Mississippi—could elevate education outcomes for all New Mexicans. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this episode of Suncast, host Jim Williams sits down with businessman and former gubernatorial candidate Jeff Apodaca for a blunt and data-driven conversation on what’s holding New Mexico back—and how to fix it. Apodaca, drawing on both private-sector experience and deep family political roots, lays out a vision for job creation, investment in rural communities, and breaking the cycle of poverty through economic accountability. From underutilized state funds to missed opportunities in tech, healthcare, and cannabis, Apodaca critiques the status quo while offering practical, bipartisan strategies to unleash New Mexico’s full potential. 🔍 Topics discussed: - Mismanagement of state investment funds - Growing jobs through private-public partnerships - New Mexico’s leadership crisis - The cannabis economy and beyond - Lessons from the Apodaca family legacy Whether you're a voter, policymaker, or business leader, this episode is a wake-up call for bold, accountable economic leadership in the Land of Enchantment. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Fred Nathan, founder and executive director of Think New Mexico, joins host Jim Williams to break down the alarming doctor shortage in New Mexico. In this revealing conversation, Nathan outlines the root causes—from soaring medical malpractice premiums to burdensome taxes on healthcare services—and shares bipartisan solutions that nearly passed in the 2025 legislative session. Learn about Think New Mexico’s successful push for a Medicaid trust fund, the impact of punitive damage lawsuits, and how licensing reforms could bring back critical healthcare providers. This is a must-watch for anyone concerned with healthcare access and policy reform in the state. 🔗 Learn more at: https://www.thinknewmexico.org Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this heartwarming episode of the New Mexico Sun podcast, host Jim Williams sits down with Randy Mascorella, Executive Director of Special Olympics New Mexico, to explore her powerful journey of more than 30 years advocating for athletes with intellectual disabilities. Randy shares how her experience as a coach led to a life-changing calling, the importance of sports in building confidence and inclusion, and how Special Olympics transforms lives—not just for athletes, but for families, volunteers, and entire communities. Discover the year-round mission of Special Olympics New Mexico, the incredible courage of its athletes, and how YOU can get involved through coaching, volunteering, or donating. Whether you're a parent, teacher, business leader, or community member, this conversation will inspire you to see the full humanity and potential in every person. 📞 Volunteer or donate: https://sonm.org 📧 Contact: (505) 856-0342 Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this powerful episode of the New Mexico Sun Cast, host Jim Williams sits down with Paul Gessing, President of the Rio Grande Foundation, to unpack the root causes of New Mexico’s most pressing issues—from failing public schools and economic stagnation to outmigration and health care challenges. Gessing, a longtime advocate for free markets and limited government, shares candid insights on the state’s political leadership, missed opportunities in Santa Fe, and practical reforms that could pave the way for a better future. Tune in to hear about the impact of school choice, constitutional liberties, oil revenue mismanagement, and how everyday New Mexicans can get involved to drive change. 🔗 Learn more at RioGrandeFoundation.org and ErrorsOfEnchantment.com Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Join Jim Williams and Carla Sonntag as they sit down with Jean Bernstein, co-founder of Flying Star Cafe, to talk about the incredible journey of building one of Albuquerque’s most beloved local restaurant chains. From her early days as a teacher to managing over 400 employees, Jean shares the inspiration behind Flying Star, the secrets to its iconic menu, and what it takes to run a values-driven business in a challenging economic and political environment. This episode also dives deep into: - The evolution of local neighborhoods and the restaurant industry - The real cost of doing business in New Mexico - The effects of legislation like the Paid Family Leave Act on small businesses - The importance of community, employee care, and creating welcoming spaces Whether you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or local food lover, this episode offers valuable insight into what it takes to thrive in the Land of Enchantment. 🔗 Visit Flying Star Cafe: flyingstarcafe.com 🌐 Learn more about Better Together NM: bettertogethernewmexico.org Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In this episode of New Mexico Suncast, Jim Williams sits down with Don and Damara Andrade—parents, Christian apologists, and creators of A Parent’s Guide to 125+ Explicit Books in Albuquerque Public Schools. Together, they break down their findings on graphic sexual content embedded in K-12 school libraries, the dangers of early exposure, and the growing movement of concerned parents pushing back. This conversation isn’t about banning ideas—it’s about protecting innocence, restoring common sense, and respecting parental rights in a culture where kids are often left defenseless. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, educator, or just someone who cares about kids—you’ll want to hear this. 🌐 Download the free PDF at thehitchapologists.com Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Kyle Hartsock is Commander of Criminal Investigation Division with the Albuquerque Police Department as well as a Law Enforcement Investigation Expert, Policy Writer, and Mobile device forensics location expert. Shell Repp is a part of the New Mexico Human Trafficking Task Force and Executive Director for New Mexico Dream Center whose mission is to provide services to survivors of human trafficking and unhoused youth. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Chris served over 20 years in the United States Air Force as an HH-60G Flight Examiner and Master Instructor HH-60G Flight Engineer. Chris has had a distinguished career in aviation operations as an operator, manager, and USAF Aircraft Mechanic. He has been involved in USAF aviation operations on a global scale since 1994. He is an expert in scheduling, training, operations, management and leadership. Over 2800 flight hours supporting worldwide combat search and rescue, airlift operations and flight training. Chris managed personnel, schedule, training and aviation operations, and equipment of numerous Air Force units. He oversaw the execution and program management of a 7,900hr Flying Hour Program, supporting training requirements for 275 students yearly. Chris has multiple Associates degrees in Instructor of Military Technology, Aviation Maintenance, and Aviation Operations Flight Engineer. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Crystal Brantley [R] is a member of the New Mexico State Senate, representing District 35. She assumed office on January 1, 2021. Crystal Diamond Brantley earned a bachelor's degree from New Mexico State University. Diamond Brantley's career experience includes working as the director of the Sierra Soil & Water Conservation District. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Elaine Cortez [R] is a member of the New Mexico House of Representatives, representing District 62. She assumed office on January 1, 2025. Cortez was born in Roswell, New Mexico. She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of the Southwest in 2006, a graduate degree from Eastern New Mexico University in 2012, and a doctorate from the University of the Southwest. Her career experience includes working as a business owner and professor. She is a member of King's Gate Church. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Patrick Boone IV [R] is a member of the New Mexico State Senate, representing District 27. He assumed office on January 1, 2025. Patrick Boone IV's career experience includes working as a rancher. He has served as a member of First Baptist Church and as a supporter and member of the High Plains Emmaus organization. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Gail Armstrong [R] is a member of the New Mexico House of Representatives, representing District 49. She assumed office in 2017. Armstrong was selected as the House minority leader effective January 21, 2025. Armstrong's professional experience includes owning TLC Plumbing and serving as president of Pro-Fab, Inc. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Jeff Steinborn [D] is a member of the New Mexico State Senate, representing District 36. He assumed office in 2017. Steinborn ran for re-election to the New Mexico State Senate to represent District 36. He won in the general election on November 5, 2024. Steinborn earned his bachelor's degree in government from the University of Texas-Austin in 1995. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

William Sharer [R] is a member of the New Mexico State Senate, representing District 1. He assumed office in 2001. Sharer was recently selected as the Senate minority leader effective January 21, 2025. Sharer earned his A.A. from the New Mexico Military Institute in 1979 and his B.A. from New Mexico State University in 1981. His professional experience includes being the owner of Popcorn Patch from 1992 to 1993, the general manager of a Taco Bell from 1993 to 1995, and as the owner of the Credit Bureau of Farmington. Sharer served in the United States Army from 1982 to 1992. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Fred Nathan, Jr. founded Think New Mexico in 1999 and is its Executive Director. Fred served as Special Counsel to New Mexico Attorney General Tom Udall from 1991-1998. In that capacity, he was the architect of several successful legislative initiatives and was in charge of New Mexico’s lawsuit against the tobacco industry, which resulted in a $1.25 billion settlement for the state. Fred is a former trustee of his alma mater, Williams College. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Carla Sonntag is the President and co-founder of Rebound New Mexico (RNM), a New Mexican community-based charitable organization that works to break the generational chains of poverty in our state. RNM’s training programs target the next generation of leaders by teaching them to think critically while improving their communication and job interview skills. They focus on the youth living in homeless shelters or in economically challenged families. Additionally, Carla is also a full-time volunteer for both organizations, helping New Mexicans improving their daily lives through RNM and passing legislation with NMBC. Website: https://reboundnm.org/ Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

Nathaniel Roybal is a native New Mexican. He grew up in Mora and graduated from Mosquero High School. He also graduated from New Mexico State University, where he studied Animal and Range Sciences. He was an ACES College Ambassador and was the outstanding graduating senior of his class. Dr. Roybal was a part of the first graduating class of the combined MD and PhD at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine in 2007. Dr. Roybal completed the EyeSTAR post-doctoral fellowship and ophthalmology residency at the UCLA Stein Eye Institute. His post-doctoral studies focused on gene and stem cell therapies for age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. During his vitreoretinal fellowship at the University of Iowa, he pioneered the use of proteomics for the diagnosis and personalized treatment of retinal diseases. In 2020, Dr. Roybal founded Retina Consultants of New Mexico to provide New Mexicans access to world-class retina care. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts