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The wide range of opinions on the right path forward to revitalize American shipbuilding gave us an idea: how about having a couple previous guests with differing opinions on to debate them?

Many thanks to Colin Grabow of the Cato Institute and Lance Lemcool, a career shipbuilding executive, for taking on the challenge!

For background on each, tune in to their previous individual episodes with us:
Lance - https://youtu.be/DGiAzabXwro
Colin - https://youtu.be/hW1Hdlor0II

Lance is cautiously optimistic about President Trump's Maritime Action Plan and the SHIPS Act, emphasizing the need for government subsidies to revitalize the industry. Colin is skeptical, noting the U.S. has averaged 0.15% of global shipbuilding output over the past decade, ranking 19th in 2024. Both agree on the historical ineffectiveness of government policies and the need for a robust commercial shipbuilding industry for national security. They debate whether government subsidies or leveraging allied shipyards is the better approach.

These guys both really know their stuff, and they represented their differing views with great expertise and exemplary respectfulness. It's nice to see that reasoned debate still exists!

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David Rashid, an expert on trade cheating, discussed his experiences and the challenges of combating trade fraud. He detailed how his competitor shifted production from China to Thailand to avoid tariffs, leading to a significant loss of business. Despite efforts, including hiring investigators and engaging the DOJ's Trade Fraud Task Force, the case remained unresolved. David emphasized the complexity and slow progress of trade enforcement, highlighting the need for more resources, transparency, and legislative support. He also mentioned the de minimis exemption, which allowed undervaluation, and the non-resident importer loophole, which hindered enforcement. David advocates for better education and advocacy to address these issues.

Highlights:
00:00 - David's Background
06:32 - Introduction to Trade Cheating
08:15 - David's Experience with Trade Cheating
11:47 - Legal and Enforcement Efforts
15:36 - Challenges in Enforcing Trade Laws
22:27 - Legislative and Educational Efforts
29:23 - Conclusion and Call to Action

This is a critical reality that gets far too little attention.

You can learn more at David's website, and by connecting with him firsthand. Those links are here:

David's website: https://trade-fraud-awarenes-u8dl.bolt.host/
David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-rashid-b4017a/
David's email: drashid71@gmail.com

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For our 200th episode, we have a guy who has one whale of a life story!

Denny LaVé, a US Senate candidate from Idaho, talks about his background in the trades, entrepreneurship, and faith. Denny discusses his company, Precision Precast Erectors, which specializes in precast concrete installations. He shares his journey from an iron worker to business owner, emphasizing the dignity and financial stability of trades jobs. Denny highlights the importance of faith in personal growth and societal well-being, and his campaign's focus on revitalizing American manufacturing and resource extraction. He also addresses the challenges young people face in establishing households and the need for systemic changes in healthcare and tax policies.

Highlights:
00:00 - Introduction
06:09 - The Importance of Skilled Trades and Career Guidance
14:17 - Entrepreneurship and Risk-Taking
18:37 - Faith and Personal Growth
26:04 - Running for Office and Public Policy
32:07 - Challenges Faced by Young People
38:07 - The Role of Public Policy in Supporting Trades and Manufacturing
45:27 - The Importance of Faith in Public Life
48:31 - Denny's Vision for the Future
54:55 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Of all our episodes, this one is the most worthy of diving into the whole episode. What a great bunch of insights and ideas Denny brought us!

Denny's campaign website: https://www.dennyforsenate.com/
Denny's book: https://newlionofidaho.com/