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What happens when a decorated Air Force pilot turns his attention to local democracy? Sean Monterio, chairperson for the Virginia Beach Democratic Party Committee and retired Air Force colonel who flew the fearsome A-10 Warthog "tank killer," brings the same precision and purpose to his fight for fair representation in Virginia Beach.

At the heart of our conversation lies the controversial 10-1 referendum - a seemingly technical issue that fundamentally shapes who has power in Virginia's largest city. Monterio breaks down why having council members who live in your neighborhood matters: "They live in your neighborhoods, they drive through your neighborhoods... and you only have one person now to call to advocate for you." This system ensures all communities - not just the wealthy or well-connected - have a voice in decisions about everything from flooding prevention to school funding.

The contrast with the proposed 7-3-1 system reveals what's truly at stake. When three at-large council members could potentially all live in the same zip code, who really gets represented? As Monterio explains, this creates winners and losers among communities, with resources flowing disproportionately to certain areas while others struggle with crumbling infrastructure.

Beyond voting systems, Monterio offers profound insights on community policing, noting that "when you know somebody by their name, you're less apt to be aggressive towards them" - a principle that applies equally to relationships between citizens and their representatives. His perspective as both a military veteran and community leader illuminates how local governance directly impacts quality of life for every resident.

Ready to understand how local democracy really works? This episode delivers practical wisdom for anyone who cares about their community's future. Subscribe now and join the conversation about fair representation!

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Comedy isn't just about making people laugh – it's about processing life's challenges and speaking truths others can't. That's what local comedian Steve Wills discovered after stepping onto the stage for the first time nearly two years ago.

In this revealing conversation with Al Neely, Steve shares how comedy transformed from a simple bucket list item into a therapeutic outlet that helps him navigate life's complexities. Born in Savannah and raised in Mississippi before settling in Virginia Beach after his Navy service, Steve brings a unique Southern perspective to his performances at venues like Funny Bone, where he's participated in their Clash of the Comics and Roast Battle events.

What sets Steve apart is his unwavering authenticity. Despite working as an insurance broker by day, he doesn't shy away from controversial topics or political commentary in his comedy. "If I lose business because of this, then I'm okay with that," he explains, noting that this honesty actually strengthens his connection with audiences who appreciate his genuine approach. Drawing inspiration from comedians like Dave Chappelle, Anthony Jeselnik, and Shane Gillis, Steve embraces an edgier style that might not always play it safe but remains true to his voice.

Perhaps most fascinating is Steve's personal evolution. Growing up in a conservative Christian household in Mississippi, his worldview expanded dramatically after joining the Navy and encountering diverse perspectives. This journey from sheltered upbringing to open-minded comedian offers powerful insights into how exposure to different people and ideas can transform our understanding of the world.

Whether discussing his comedy career, his family (he's a father of four), or his frustrations with current events like the Epstein case, Steve brings refreshing candor to every topic. Follow him on social media @SteveWillsIsFunny to catch his latest performances and thought-provoking posts.

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What happens when your barber becomes more than someone who cuts your hair? For many young men in College Park, Virginia, the chair at Dreams Barbershop has become a confessional, a counselor's office, and ultimately, a lifeline.

Brothers Derek and Dwayne are transforming their neighborhood through an unexpected hub of mentorship and guidance. Derek, who's been cutting hair at the same location since 2007 and became the owner in 2016, noticed something profound happening in his barber chair. Young men were opening up about challenges he never expected to address as a barber – from online predators targeting them through social media to grief over lost friends and the complexities of navigating a digital world their parents never experienced.

"Kids are dealing with stuff that we didn't have to deal with," Derek explains, describing how today's youth face bullying that follows them home through their phones, exposure to violence, and pressure from social media that previous generations never imagined. Where once confrontations happened face-to-face and stayed contained, now they unfold relentlessly online with potentially thousands of witnesses.

Through their Greater Men Foundation, the brothers have expanded beyond barbershop conversations to organize fishing trips, museum visits, and youth gardens. Their recent expedition took nearly 40 kids out fishing – many experiencing it for the first time. Rather than focusing solely on steering young men away from trouble, they're passionate about exposing them to new possibilities and helping them discover purpose early in life.

The foundation represents something deeper about community responsibility. As Derek plans to open a barber school to teach youth valuable trade skills, he's addressing a gap in American education: "They tell you 'go to college, get good grades, get a good job,' but trades are very important." This philosophy isn't just about cutting hair – it's about empowering young people to build sustainable futures in a capitalist economy that rewards entrepreneurship but rarely teaches the skills needed to succeed within it.

Tune in to hear how two brothers are creating ripples of change through relationships built one haircut at a time, and discover how community businesses can become transformative hubs of support and guidance for our most vulnerable youth.

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Do us a favor and like, comment, share, and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes.

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