In this powerful episode of Policy and Culture, we sit down with Vanessa Baird-Streeter, CEO of the Health & Welfare Council of Long Island, for a candid and inspiring conversation about leadership, legacy, and service.

Vanessa shares her journey from entrepreneur to trusted public servant, reflecting on her time as Deputy County Executive of Suffolk County Government, where she helped shape critical policies impacting families across the region. Now, as CEO of one of Long Island’s most important nonprofit organizations, she leads with heart, vision, and deep community insight.

We discuss the power of local politics, the challenges of navigating government and advocacy spaces, and what it means to show up every day as a mother, wife, woman, and boss. Vanessa opens up about the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur, the importance of being rooted in purpose, and the lessons she’s learned from wearing many hats—and wearing them well.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone balancing leadership and life and committed to making real impact in their community.

Thanks for tuning in to Policy and Culture, where we bridge the gap between policy and culture. We're your hosts, Daniel Lloyd and Andrew Ayodeji.

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. You can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever else you get your podcasts.

For more content and updates, follow us on social media:

• Instagram: @PolicynCulture

Visit our website at www.policynculture.com for articles, videos, and more in-depth analysis on the topics we discuss.

Have a question or topic suggestion? Email us at policynculture@gmail.com

Remember, staying informed is the first step to making a difference. Until next time, this is Policy and Culture, empowering you to understand the world around us.

Episode 14: Building the Future with Matthew Aracich

President – Building and Construction Trades Council of Nassau and Suffolk Counties

In this episode of Policy and Culture, we sit down with Matthew Aracich, a third-generation union member and the dynamic President of the Nassau-Suffolk Building and Construction Trades Council, representing over 65,000 tradesmen and tradeswomen across 37 affiliated unions.

Before leading the NSBCTC, Matt built his career from the ground up — starting as a commercial diver nearly 40 years ago, becoming a heavy equipment operator in the U.S. Navy, and later serving as Business Manager and Financial Secretary of Heat and Frost Insulators Local 12 in NYC, where he oversaw $200 million in benefit funds and led key labor negotiations.

In our conversation, we explore his deep union roots, his powerful journey through the trades, and the evolving role of organized labor in today’s economy. Matt shares insights on workforce development, the future of construction on Long Island, and how unions are adapting to meet the needs of the next generation.

Tune in now to hear how labor leadership and public policy intersect — and why it matters for our communities.

Thanks for tuning into Policy and Culture, where we bridge the gap between power and the people. Hosted by Daniel Lloyd and Andrew Ayodeji.

Follow us:

Instagram: @PolicynCulture

Website: www.policynculture.com Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen.

Thanks for tuning in to Policy and Culture, where we bridge the gap between policy and culture. We're your hosts, Daniel Lloyd and Andrew Ayodeji.

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. You can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever else you get your podcasts.

For more content and updates, follow us on social media:

• Instagram: @PolicynCulture

Visit our website at www.policynculture.com for articles, videos, and more in-depth analysis on the topics we discuss.

Have a question or topic suggestion? Email us at policynculture@gmail.com

Remember, staying informed is the first step to making a difference. Until next time, this is Policy and Culture, empowering you to understand the world around us.

🎙️ Episode 13: Clean Energy for the Culture – Live with 19 Keys & Jim Jones

In this powerful live event edition of @policynculture, we bring you front-row access to an electrifying conversation between visionary thought leader 19 Keys and cultural icon Jim Jones—recorded live at the Clean Energy for the Culture kickoff event at Nassau Coliseum, hosted by Minority Millennials in partnership with Vineyard Offshore.

This episode goes beyond energy policy—it’s about being in harmony with the environment, living a clean and righteous life, and positioning yourself to thrive in the new green economy.

From the spiritual to the strategic, 19 Keys and Jim Jones unpack:

🌱 How clean energy mirrors clean living—internally and externally

⚡ The mindset needed to succeed in a rapidly changing economic landscape

🔁 How to transmute negative energy into purpose and power

💡 Why culture must lead the charge in sustainability and self-determination

This is more than a conversation—it’s a blueprint for personal evolution in an era defined by climate, consciousness, and community.

Thanks for tuning in to Policy and Culture, where we bridge the gap between power and the people. Hosted by Daniel Lloyd and Andrew Ayodeji.

🔊 Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen.

📲 Follow us for more:

Instagram: @PolicynCulture

🌐 Website: www.policynculture.com

📩 Have a question or topic idea? Email us at policynculture@gmail.com

Knowledge is power. Culture is currency. Let’s build.

Thanks for tuning in to Policy and Culture, where we bridge the gap between policy and culture. We're your hosts, Daniel Lloyd and Andrew Ayodeji.

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. You can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever else you get your podcasts.

For more content and updates, follow us on social media:

• Instagram: @PolicynCulture

Visit our website at www.policynculture.com for articles, videos, and more in-depth analysis on the topics we discuss.

Have a question or topic suggestion? Email us at policynculture@gmail.com

Remember, staying informed is the first step to making a difference. Until next time, this is Policy and Culture, empowering you to understand the world around us.

In this episode of @policynculture, we sit down with Chef Kenny Ware, Owner of Backyard BBQ and President of the Black Restaurant Coalition, to talk about his journey from Roosevelt, NY to becoming a top-tier chef and entrepreneur. 🍽️🔥

Kenny dives into the rich history of Roosevelt—home to legends like Dr. J and Chuck D—and shares the ups and downs of managing a restaurant, the skills needed to thrive in the culinary world, and the vibrant culture of Long Island.

This is a must-listen

Thanks for tuning in to Policy and Culture, where we bridge the gap between policy and culture. We're your hosts, Daniel Lloyd and Andrew Ayodeji.

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. You can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever else you get your podcasts.

For more content and updates, follow us on social media:

• Instagram: @PolicynCulture

Visit our website at www.policynculture.com for articles, videos, and more in-depth analysis on the topics we discuss.

Have a question or topic suggestion? Email us at policynculture@gmail.com

Remember, staying informed is the first step to making a difference. Until next time, this is Policy and Culture, empowering you to understand the world around us.

In this episode of @policynculture, we sit down with Ryan Stanton, Executive Director of the Long Island Federation of Labor, to break down what it takes to start a career in union construction and trades. 🏗️

Ryan shares his journey into the labor movement, explains the vital role unions play in strengthening the American middle class, and defines what livable wages really mean. He also lays out the steps for young people—starting as early as 18—to access union opportunities and build a stable, rewarding career.

We also discuss the importance of ensuring all communities have fair and equitable access to the union movement through programs like Opportunities Long Island.

If you’re looking for a career with stability, growth, and real economic power, this episode is for you. Catch it now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube! 🎧📺

#policynculture #RyanStanton #UnionStrong #BuildingTrades #ConstructionCareers #LivableWages #WorkforceDevelopment #OpportunitiesLongIsland #PowerAndCulture #MinorityMillennials

Thanks for tuning in to Policy and Culture, where we bridge the gap between policy and culture. We're your hosts, Daniel Lloyd and Andrew Ayodeji.

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. You can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever else you get your podcasts.

For more content and updates, follow us on social media:

• Instagram: @PolicynCulture

Visit our website at www.policynculture.com for articles, videos, and more in-depth analysis on the topics we discuss.

Have a question or topic suggestion? Email us at policynculture@gmail.com

Remember, staying informed is the first step to making a difference. Until next time, this is Policy and Culture, empowering you to understand the world around us.

🚨 In Episode 10 of @policynculture, we sat down with Dr. Timothy E. Sams, President of SUNY Old Westbury, for a thought-provoking and inspiring conversation you don’t want to miss!

Dr. Sams reflects on his journey from Syracuse, NY, growing up in the 70s, and how the wisdom of his grandparents and teachers shaped his path to leadership. As President of SUNY Old Westbury, he shares the vision and mission of the institution, emphasizing its commitment to empowering students, fostering inclusivity, and driving social change.

We also dive into a fascinating discussion about the impact and unique contributions of Marcus Garvey, the power of Pan-Africanism, and the ongoing challenges of African freedom. 🌍

This is just a glimpse into the full conversation, where we explore history, leadership, and the role of higher education in shaping a better future. Tap the link in bio to watch the full episode now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube! 🎧📺

#policynculture #DrTimothySams #MarcusGarvey #PanAfricanism #SUNYOldWestbury #LeadershipJourney #AfricanFreedom #HigherEducation #PowerAndCulture #MinorityMillennials

Thanks for tuning in to Policy and Culture, where we bridge the gap between policy and culture. We're your hosts, Daniel Lloyd and Andrew Ayodeji.

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. You can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever else you get your podcasts.

For more content and updates, follow us on social media:

• Instagram: @PolicynCulture

Visit our website at www.policynculture.com for articles, videos, and more in-depth analysis on the topics we discuss.

Have a question or topic suggestion? Email us at policynculture@gmail.com

Remember, staying informed is the first step to making a difference. Until next time, this is Policy and Culture, empowering you to understand the world around us.

In this episode of the @policynculture podcast, we sit down with Retha Fernandez, Manager of Workforce Development & Equity, to explore the opportunities and policies shaping clean energy and offshore wind developments across Long Island and New York. 🌊⚡

Retha shares insights into the growing clean energy sector, its impact on workforce development, and the pathways for careers in this rapidly evolving field. We also dive into the current State of Black Long Island, discussing challenges, opportunities, and what it will take to close the gaps. Finally, we touch on the 2024 Presidential Election and what it means for communities across the region.

This conversation is packed with insights on equity, progress, and preparing for the future of energy and leadership. Don’t miss it!

#policynculture #RethaFernandez #CleanEnergyCareers #OffshoreWind #WorkforceDevelopment #StateOfBlackLongIsland #2024PresidentialElection #EquityAndOpportunity #PowerAndCulture

Thanks for tuning in to Policy and Culture, where we bridge the gap between policy and culture. We're your hosts, Daniel Lloyd and Andrew Ayodeji.

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. You can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever else you get your podcasts.

For more content and updates, follow us on social media:

• Instagram: @PolicynCulture

Visit our website at www.policynculture.com for articles, videos, and more in-depth analysis on the topics we discuss.

Have a question or topic suggestion? Email us at policynculture@gmail.com

Remember, staying informed is the first step to making a difference. Until next time, this is Policy and Culture, empowering you to understand the world around us.

In this episode of the @policynculture podcast, we sit down with Dan Bythewood, President and Co-Founder of La Cité Development, to explore his journey as a real estate financier and developer. With a career spanning major projects in New York and internationally, Dan shares his insights into the complex real estate market and the critical role of access to capital for new developers.

We also dive into his impactful work on community redevelopment in Baltimore, the city made famous by “The Wire,” and discuss the challenges and rewards of transforming underserved neighborhoods. From structuring billion-dollar portfolios to fostering co-ownership ventures, Dan’s perspective offers a unique look into the work it takes to drive meaningful urban development.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the real estate industry, community impact, and what it takes to bring large-scale projects to life.

#policynculture #DanBythewood #LaCitéDevelopment #RealEstate #CommunityDevelopment #Baltimore #AccessToCapital #UrbanRenewal #MinorityMillennials #PowerAndCulture

Thanks for tuning in to Policy and Culture, where we bridge the gap between policy and culture. We're your hosts, Daniel Lloyd and Andrew Ayodeji.

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. You can find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever else you get your podcasts.

For more content and updates, follow us on social media:

• Instagram: @PolicynCulture

Visit our website at www.policynculture.com for articles, videos, and more in-depth analysis on the topics we discuss.

Have a question or topic suggestion? Email us at policynculture@gmail.com

Remember, staying informed is the first step to making a difference. Until next time, this is Policy and Culture, empowering you to understand the world around us.