ABQ Connect Episode Archive

Search Episodes

Paul Gessing of the Rio Grande Foundation joins us in studio to discuss the latest from Errors of Enchantment. The Albuquerque Journal recently delivered strong reporting on the Albuquerque Public Schools budget, providing important context on education spending. Among the Rio Grande Foundation’s lasting impacts has been helping reshape how media outlets cover the size and growth of education budgets in New Mexico.

Albuquerque Public Schools adopts massive budget spending $36,859 per-student – Errors of Enchantment

 

Barry Meguiar, founder of Ignite America and president of Meguiar’s Car Wax, is urging Christians nationwide to join the May 17 “Rededicate 250” observance ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. Meguiar says the event is an opportunity for spiritual renewal and encourages believers to share their faith and help spark revival across America.

Ignite America

Lance Dukes from La Luz Christian Academy joins us to discuss the school’s mission, educational programs, and the opportunities available to students. He will share how La Luz Christian Academy combines academic excellence with faith-based learning to help students grow spiritually, academically, and personally while preparing them for future success.

La Luz Christian Academy – Classical Christian School

Timothy S. Goeglein draws on more than three decades of public service and Christian ministry to examine the cultural and moral challenges facing America today. A former Special Assistant to President George W. Bush and current Vice President of Government and External Relations at Focus on the Family, Goeglein explores issues such as the breakdown of marriage and family, the decline of education, and growing attacks on faith. In his book, What Really Matters: Restoring a Legacy of Faith, Freedom, and Family, he argues that many of the nation’s social and political divisions stem from the erosion of the family unit and calls for a renewed commitment to faith, freedom, and family as the foundation for national renewal.

Home – Focus on the Family

What Really Matters: Restoring a Legacy of Faith, Freedom, and Family: Osten, Craig, Goeglein, Timothy S.: 9781956454888: Amazon.com: Books

On this episode of ABQ Connect, host Jim Williams visits with Carla Sonntag, founder and president of the New Mexico Business Coalition, to discuss some of the most pressing economic and workforce challenges facing New Mexico. Carla addresses the alarming report that nearly 32,000 young New Mexicans are currently neither working nor enrolled in school, and explains how that trend impacts businesses, workforce development, education accountability, and the state’s long-term economic future. The conversation also explores legislative accountability, career readiness, election integrity, and the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision regarding voting districts and the Voting Rights Act. Listeners will also learn how organizations like Better Together New Mexico are encouraging civic engagement, informed participation, and policies designed to strengthen New Mexico’s economy and future workforce.

Our Friday Financial Update takes a look at the latest activity in the stock markets through the lens of a Biblical worldview. Joining us is the President of John Moore Associates to provide insight on current market trends, economic developments, and faith-based principles for wise financial stewardship.

Principled Financial Planners | John Moore Associates

Emma Waters with The Heritage Foundation joins us to review the 75th National Day of Prayer celebration in Washington, D.C., as highlighted by The Daily Signal. Emma discusses key moments from the event, the themes of faith and unity shared by speakers, and the significance of the annual observance across the nation.

The Heritage Foundation

Emily Washburn from Focus on the Family joins us to discuss her May 6 article, “Feds Ask Parents: ‘Did You Know Gender Ideology Can Be Promoted in Kids TV Shows?’” Emily shares insights into the growing national conversation surrounding children’s programming, parental awareness, and concerns about gender ideology in media aimed at young audiences.

Home – Daily Citizen

 

May is National Foster Care Month, and Focus on the Family is working to expand support for foster families after helping more than 480,000 foster households in 2025. Joining us is Dr. Sharen Ford to discuss how communities can come alongside foster families through the simple ESE framework: Engagement, Support, and Encouragement. Dr. Ford shares practical ways people can help foster families thrive while providing hope and stability for vulnerable children.

Home – Focus on the Family