ABQ Connect Episode Archive

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Paul Gessing joins the studio to discuss a recent Rio Grande Foundation perspective featured on the “Errors of Enchantment” blog, focusing on the article “Southeast NM secession story has legs even if actual secession does not.” The conversation explores why secession talk in southeastern New Mexico is gaining attention, the political and economic frustrations driving it, and why, despite its growing visibility, actual secession remains unlikely.

Home – Rio Grande Foundation
Errors of Enchantment – Why is New Mexico not realizing its potential?

Reaching for Remarkable by Tim Foot is a concise, practical guide for leaders who want strong momentum without burning out their people. Written for church teams, volunteers, nonprofits, and businesses, it shows how remarkable teams are intentionally designed—not accidentally built. Foot’s “Team Traps” framework highlights hidden patterns that stall progress, drain belief, and erode trust, equipping leaders to build healthier, more effective teams that last.

Mike Gomez from U-Turn for Christ joins us in the studio to talk about an exciting upcoming event featuring opportunities to participate, enjoy great food, and enter a raffle. He shares how the community can get involved and what to expect at this engaging gathering.

Enrollment-Men’s and Women’s Program/Drug Rehab Albuquerque New Mexico – U Turn For Christ New Mexico %

Stefan Merkel and Brian Nixon join us in the studio to discuss their project Abstain From Fastening A Brain. Blending experimental, chamber, and traditional Americana influences, the duo crafts genre-defying conceptual music that builds a distinctive and immersive sonic architecture.

White Flower | Abstain From Fastening A Brain

David and Angela Breidenbach join ABQ Connect to share their powerful mission work with Spiritual Orphans Network across Eastern Europe and Africa. From the lingering effects of communism to the realities of war in Ukraine, they offer firsthand insight into the spiritual hunger in these regions—along with inspiring stories of transformed lives. Discover how you can be part of this global mission at https://sonetwork.org/.

Brian Cochran, President of John Moore Associates, addresses investor concerns amid market instability, particularly the question of when to move assets to safer options. He shares key statistics and insights to help simplify decision-making and provide perspective during uncertain economic times.

Principled Financial Planners | John Moore Associates

Emma Waters of the Heritage Foundation summarizes a The Daily Signal article examining federal funding directed to Planned Parenthood. She outlines how taxpayer dollars are allocated and discusses the policy and political debates surrounding that funding.

The Heritage Foundation

Emily Washburn reviews New Mexico’s case against Meta, explaining the ruling and its broader implications for social media regulation. She highlights concerns about online safety and explores what increased scrutiny of tech platforms could mean for families navigating the digital world.

Home – Daily Citizen

Dominique Wingerd from CAPE-NM joins us in studio to talk about an upcoming convention designed for the homeschool community. The event aims to support New Mexico parents by offering resources, training, and practical guidance to strengthen their teaching and help them confidently protect and advocate for their children’s education.

CAPE NM – Christian Association of Parent Educators

Licensed marriage and family therapist Glenn Lutjens, a longtime member of the Focus on the Family team for over 30 years, joins the conversation to address the emotional dynamics of family gatherings—especially during holidays like Easter. Drawing from decades of clinical experience and faith-based counseling, Glenn offers practical wisdom on navigating tension, setting healthy boundaries, communicating ahead of time, and responding graciously to conflict. He also explores how approaching gatherings with intentionality can create more peace—and how these moments can become valuable opportunities for personal growth and self-awareness.

www.focusonthefamily.org