ABQ Connect Episode Archive

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Paul Gessing of the Rio Grande Foundation joins us to discuss the upcoming Special Session called by Governor Lujan Grisham. We explore the session’s focus, its potential impact on New Mexico taxpayers, and how it connects to the controversial “Big Beautiful Bill.” Gessing breaks down what it all means for the state’s future.

Elizabeth Montoya is the Founder of a new 501(c)3 charity called Seeds of Tomorrow: Planting Seeds for a Brighter Future, 505-400-0765.  In this episode, she shares how the ministry is encouraging elder caregivers and residents of nursing homes, providing internship opportunities for young people aging out of Foster Care, while affirming the hard work of CYFD Social workers. Seeds of Tomorrow partners like Albuquerque Florist provide beautiful flowers that the ministry uses as part of their outreach to show kindness to people. For more information about how you might help people through Seeds of Tomorrow, call 505-400-0765.

Note: New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families needs Foster parents to help provide children with a stable, loving home. For more information, call the CYFD Peer to Peer Warm line at (855) 466-7100, or visit  https://www.cyfd.nm.gov/.

Genevieve Wood from The Heritage Foundation joins us to discuss a provocative new article centered on Senator Cain’s recent remarks claiming that our rights do not come from our Creator. The statement has sparked controversy, as it directly challenges the foundational principles outlined in the U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. Wood offers insight into the historical and philosophical roots of America’s belief in God-given rights and examines the broader implications of Senator Cain’s comments in today’s political landscape.

Brian Cochran, President of John Moore Associates, returns to ABQ Connect to share insights on the financial review as summer winds down, with a focus on the month of August. Despite ongoing economic concerns, Brian offers a surprisingly optimistic outlook, highlighting key trends and encouraging indicators that point toward financial stability and growth. Tune in to hear why the end of summer might bring more than just heat — it could bring hope for your portfolio.

We’re joined by Zachary Mettler of the Daily Citizen to unpack his recent article on the Trump Administration’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” and its impact on the defunding of Planned Parenthood. In this episode, we explore what the legislation entails, how it aims to redirect federal funds, and what the potential long-term implications are for both reproductive healthcare and taxpayers. Zach offers insight into the political and cultural significance of the bill, and what Americans might expect moving forward.

Chloe Valdez joins us in studio today to invite all the ladies to Sheologie‘s upcoming fall semester, Moral of the Story. Chloe unpacks how each week is filled with deep intention to uncover Jesus’ parables and she also dives in to what crafts you can expect to participate in, Sheologie kids and much more.

Today, we’re joined by Jack Phillips, owner and baker of Masterpiece Cakeshop in Colorado. Jack shares the deeply personal story behind his headline-making decision nearly a decade ago to decline creating a custom cake for a same-sex wedding, citing his Christian faith. He opens up about the convictions that guided him, the legal and emotional battles that followed—including a journey to the U.S. Supreme Court—and how his faith remained a constant source of strength. Jack also discusses the upcoming documentary Truth Rising, premiering September 5th, where he hopes to inspire others with a message of courage, conviction, and God’s unwavering faithfulness.

Jim Daly from Focus on the Family joins us to discuss the highly anticipated Truth Rising documentary, a powerful collaboration between Focus on the Family and the Colson Center. The film offers a sweeping look at the current cultural and moral state of Western civilization—its challenges, its decline, and the deeper truths at stake. In this conversation, Jim addresses concerns that the documentary may seem “alarmist” to some, and shares the vision and urgency that led both organizations to create this timely and thought-provoking project.

Michael Kelshaw, elder and teaching pastor at Trinity at the Marketplace, joins ABQ Connect to share about their church and the upcoming Christianity Explored course starting September 17th. Centered on the book of Mark, the course is designed for everyone—whether you’re a longtime believer or just beginning to explore faith. It’s an open invitation to get to know Jesus and understand His heart in a deeper, more personal way.

Brian Cochran, President of John Moore Associates joins ABQ Connect for a full hour on this week’s Friday Financial Update to tackle the often controversial topic of life insurance. In this insightful episode, Brian breaks down common myths, clarifies who truly needs life insurance, and offers practical guidance on how to wisely incorporate it into a broader financial stewardship plan. Don’t miss this candid and informative conversation that could reshape how you view one of the most misunderstood tools in personal finance.