In this powerful episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Ian Roberts, Superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, as he shares his compelling leadership journey and vision for the future of education in Iowa’s largest school district. With responsibility for over 31,000 students and 72 aging school buildings, Dr. Roberts discusses the challenges and opportunities ahead, including a $51 million bond referendum on the horizon. He shares how his leadership team embraces change to create environments where all children can thrive and be "well"—academically, emotionally, and physically—in a rapidly evolving world.
We’re also joined by Frank Kelly, economist and founder of Fulcrum Macro Advisors, who brings a global lens to the conversation. Kelly dives into geopolitical and economic pressures shaping our future, from energy markets to semiconductors, and explores how LGPs (legal government policies) impact health crises like addiction and the fight against global narcotics cartels. With insights on Russia, China, and a shifting Middle East, Kelly links today’s challenges with America’s upcoming 250th birthday in 2026, echoing Marilyn Monroe: "Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together." This is a conversation about readiness—for our schools, economy, and global role in the next American chapter.
Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/olympic-champion-and-global-economist-in-iowa
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