Main Street Matters

In this episode of Main Street Matters, host Elaine Parker sits down with Rich Gandhi, a New Jersey hotel owner and small business advocate, to discuss how the federal government shutdown is devastating small businesses across the state. Gandhi reveals how his hospitality business has suffered a 30% drop in revenue, forcing difficult decisions like layoffs and cost cuts. The conversation explores the real economic toll of the shutdown, the New Jersey governor’s race, and the urgent need for small business reforms—from lowering taxes to tackling frivolous lawsuits and skyrocketing insurance costs. Tune in to hear how entrepreneurs like Rich Gandhi are fighting to keep Main Street businesses alive amid government inaction.

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and Tommy Aiello dive into the biggest economic challenges facing America’s small businesses. They break down how the government shutdown, rising healthcare costs, and new tariffs on medical products are impacting Main Street. The conversation also covers inflation, trade policy, and the Federal Reserve’s decisions—and what they mean for entrepreneurs and job creators. Parker and Aiello discuss solutions to strengthen small business growth, reduce healthcare burdens, and restore transparency in Washington.

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker discusses the implications of the EPA's endangerment finding on greenhouse gases with Diana Furchtgott-Roth. They explore the global net zero movement, the impact of regulatory changes on small businesses and everyday Americans, the challenges posed by electric vehicles, and the reliability of the power grid. The conversation also touches on the reality of climate change and the potential legal challenges that may arise from these regulatory changes.

In this conversation, Elaine Parker and Sam Caucci discuss the innovative workforce training platform 1Huddle and its connection to Sam's new book, Wasted Talent. They explore the challenges of talent development in today's economy, emphasizing the importance of addressing the experience gap versus the skills gap. Sam shares insights on how organizations can better engage their employees, the impact of technology and remote work on skill development, and the need for business leaders to understand their employees' motivations and interests to unlock their full potential.

Purchase Sam's NEW Book 'Wasted Talent' | https://samcaucci.com/wastedtalent/

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker sits down with Julio Gonzalez to discuss how IRS reform could fix a broken system, reduce audit fear, and restore fairness to Main Street. They also explore: The real impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, How Engineered Tax Services supports small business owners, & What bipartisan reforms could rebuild trust in the tax code. 

Text "Why" to 26786 to get a FREE copy of Julio's NEW Book "Why Billionaires Love The Tax Code: Follow the IRS's Lead to Build Wealth"

#IRSReform #SmallBusiness #TaxCode #MainStreetMatters

In this special episode, leading voices—including the SBA Administrator, Kelly Loeffler, Trish Regan, Grover Norquist, and more—discuss the vital role of tax cuts and small businesses in driving U.S. economic growth. They explore how lower taxes, reduced regulation, and clear policies empower entrepreneurs, create jobs, and foster innovation. The panel addresses challenges like tariffs, government spending, and political divides, emphasizing the need for pro-growth reforms. Personal stories from business owners highlight the real-world impact of tax policy, concluding with a call to support policies that sustain small businesses and economic prosperity. 

Panelists: Trish Regan, Grover Norquist, Rep. Beth Van Duyne, Jonathan Williams, Nicole Wolter

In this episode, you'll hear from Senator Joni Ernst & our special panel made up of Karen Harned, Former Labor Secretary Alex Acosta, EJ Antoni, Rep. Mike Collins, and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. 

The panel discussion focuses on the significant impact of federal regulations on small businesses and the economy. It highlights the burden of overregulation, the legislative efforts to reform these regulations, and the importance of deregulation for economic growth.

Learn more at JobCreatorsNetwork.com

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker sits down with Greg Workmon, founder and CEO of LoadUp, the innovative, tech-powered junk removal platform disrupting an outdated industry. Workmon shares how AI, real-time pricing, and data transparency are revolutionizing operations while empowering independent contractors and fueling small business growth across America. From tackling industry inefficiencies to fostering entrepreneurship, this conversation reveals how technology and free-market innovation are driving new opportunities and keeping the American dream alive for Main Street business owners.

Learn more about LoadUp

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and Breitbart’s John Carney break down the ongoing government shutdown and what it means for everyday Americans. They examine how stalled funding affects healthcare subsidies, inflation, and consumer spending—and how voters are judging both parties’ handling of the economy. The conversation also explores the growing link between pop culture and economic messaging, revealing why communication and perception matter as much as policy in today’s political climate. 

Subscribe to Breitbart Business Digest

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and National Taxpayers Union's Brandon Arnold discuss the current government shutdown and the implications of the clean continuing resolution. They delve into the complexities of Obamacare credits, the flaws in the healthcare system, and the need for a consumer-driven approach to healthcare. The conversation also touches on political dynamics surrounding illegal immigrants and healthcare, the state of negotiations in Congress, and the importance of the American Franchise Act for small business owners.

Learn more about Brandon Arnold & the National Taxpayers Union | https://www.ntu.org/

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and the Heritage Foundation's Rachel Greszler discuss the pressing issues surrounding vocational education and the workforce crisis in the U.S. They explore the demographic and fiscal challenges, the importance of apprenticeships, the impact of regulations, and the need for policy changes to attract industry experts into teaching roles. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of vocational training as a viable alternative to traditional four-year degrees, highlighting the skills gap and the role of unions in workforce development.

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker speaks with Michele Steeb, founder of the Free Up Foundation, about the ongoing homeless crisis in America. They discuss the impact of homelessness on communities, the failures of past policies, and the importance of a human-first approach to addressing the issue. Michele shares insights from her experience running a shelter for homeless women and children and emphasizes the need for mental health and addiction treatment as part of a comprehensive solution. The conversation also touches on the economic implications of homelessness and the role of community involvement in creating effective solutions.

Learn more about Michele & Purchase her book HERE | https://www.michelesteeb.com/

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker interviews Tennessee State Representative Jody Barrett, who is running for Congress. They discuss Barrett's journey into politics, the challenges facing small businesses, healthcare solutions, the impact of tax cuts, rural economic challenges, crime in communities, and the importance of education on legislative wins. Barrett emphasizes the need for investment in rural areas and the nonpartisan nature of crime issues, while also addressing the importance of maintaining a Republican majority in Congress.

Learn more about Jody Barrett HERE | https://www.jodybarrettfortennessee.com/

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker speaks with Dr. Chloe Carmichael about the significance of free speech, especially in the context of recent events and workplace dynamics. They discuss the challenges of navigating difficult conversations, the role of employers in managing speech, and the impact of victimhood on workplace culture. Dr. Carmichael emphasizes the importance of open dialogue for mental health and societal progress, offering strategies for fostering a culture of free expression in various settings.

Pre-Order Dr. Chloe's NEW Book | https://www.drchloe.com/freespeech

Learn more about Independent Women | https://www.independentwomen.com/

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker interviews Robert Netzly, founder and CEO of Inspire Impact Group, discussing the principles of Biblically Responsible Investing (BRI). Robert shares his journey from a traditional financial planner to advocating for investments aligned with biblical values. The conversation explores the growing awareness among investors about the moral implications of their investments, the impact of corporate decisions on societal values, and the importance of small businesses in promoting conservative principles. Robert emphasizes the need for transparency in investing and the role of the Inspire Impact Score in guiding investors towards companies that align with their values.

Learn more about Robert HERE | https://www.inspireadvisors.com/author/robert-netzly

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and Daniel Cochrane of the Heritage Foundation discuss the implications of AI on society, focusing on the balance between federal and state regulation, the dangers of AI in mental health and safety, and the potential benefits of AI in healthcare and small businesses. They emphasize the need for thoughtful regulation that aligns AI with the interests of everyday Americans and the importance of human touch in healthcare. The conversation highlights both the challenges and opportunities presented by AI technology.

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and Breitbart's John Carney discuss the recent downward revision of job numbers, the implications of Federal Reserve policies, and the overall state of the economy. They explore the challenges faced by small businesses, the impact of high interest rates, and the growing divide between generations regarding housing affordability. The conversation also touches on the political landscape in New York City and the rising support for socialism among younger voters.

Read John's work and Subscribe to Breitbart Business Digest HERE | https://www.breitbart.com/author/john-carney/

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and Jeremiah Poff of the Washington Examiner discuss the challenges faced by millennials and Gen Z in achieving home ownership and building wealth. They explore the economic shifts from a production-driven economy to a consumption-driven one, the impact of inflation on housing prices, and the role of student debt in economic mobility. The conversation highlights the importance of local economic drivers and corporate responsibility in creating sustainable communities. They also address the need for effective messaging of economic policies to connect with everyday Americans.

Read Jeremiah's work at the Washington Examiner

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker speaks with The Heritage Foundation's Richard Stern about the Federal Reserve's significant influence on the economy, the potential for privatizing the money supply, and the impact of recent legislation on banking. They discuss the rise of FinTech as a solution to gaps left by traditional banks, the importance of transparency in the Fed's decision-making process, and the complexities surrounding inflation and interest rates. The conversation also touches on the role of tariffs in economic negotiations and the challenges faced by small businesses in the current economic climate.

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker speaks with Sandy Moore, CEO of the Pet Advocacy Network, about the significant impact of government regulations on small businesses in the pet industry. They discuss the economic scale of the pet industry, the challenges posed by overreach in regulations, and the implications of legal changes regarding pet ownership. Sandy highlights the importance of consumer protection and the need for a balanced approach to animal welfare, while also addressing the challenges faced by veterinarians and the effects of state laws on pet ownership and sales.