Conversations Different with Inez Russell Gomez

The downtown public library building in Santa Fe could undergo renovations in the coming years, helping the space meet the modern-day needs of Santa Feans.    The Pueblo-Spanish style building on Washington Ave., which once housed municipal offices and a fire station, has seen little updating since the library moved into the building in 1986. The city’s Library Division Director Margaret Neill says improvements are long overdue and believes preplanning efforts could get the project moving.  On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez is joined by Neill to talk about the community feedback process the library is conducting for future building improvements and shares what she’s learned from the public so far.   In the episode, Inez and Neill also discuss some of the programs and services the library system has to offer and why taking advantage of them is worthwhile.   If you have suggestions or comments that you want considered for the downtown library project, email them to [email protected] or call 505-955-6786. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The missing, murdered, Indigenous people crisis has long plagued Native American communities throughout the country, especially here in the Southwest. According to the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs, it is estimated that 4,200 reported cases have gone unsolved. The result? It has left many questions unanswered, families with grief and documentarians like Amanda Erickson on a mission to share stories.   Erickson, a longtime true crime tv producer now director, has decided to shine light on this crisis in her new documentary film titled She Cried That Day. The film focuses on the story of an Arikara, Dakota and Diné woman who died from injuries caused by an alleged domestic dispute in Gallup. It follows the backstory of her case and shows the world how difficult it is to get justice in what Erickson calls an emotional and dark movement.    Erickson joins the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” to reflect with host Inez Russell Gomez, the years-long production of the film, how her producing background inspired her to tackle this type of project and what’s next as the film makes its way to festivals and small screenings across the state.   Learn more by visiting shecriedthatday.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did Texas steal El Paso from New Mexico? Depending on who you ask, the answer is likely straightforward. However, for Blake Gumprecht, an Albuquerque-based writer and longtime geographer who once lived and worked in the borderlands, the answer is a matter of delving into historical records to find the facts.   On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez talks with Gumprecht about his efforts to find out if Texas did in fact steal El Paso from New Mexico. The two discuss Gumprecht’s findings on this unusual topic and how he used them to write an article published in the Western Historical Quarterly.   The premise of the article suggests El Paso may not have originally belonged to Texas when it was incorporated into the state because of geographical changes brought by westward expansion. A lack of credible sourcing to corroborate any claims regarding incorporation, especially those of Robert S. Neighbors, is also raised in the article.   Throughout the episode, Inez and Gumprecht also reflect on the political and cultural significances El Paso has had in Texas and how different it would be today had the Sun City been a part of the Land of Enchantment.   Check out more of Gumprecht’s work by visiting his website blakegumprecht.wordpress.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Santa Fe has not been short in holding protests since President Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025. The protests have come alongside national No Kings demonstrations, drawing people of all ages to voice concerns over this administration’s actions on immigration, federal layoffs and heightened foreign policy decisions.   At the end of this month, Santa Feans will return for a third No Kings rally at the Roundhouse that is expected to harp on existing frustrations amid new ones like a war with Iran and transparency over the Epstein files.   On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez is joined by political scholar, professor and activist Heidi Li Feldman, who provides commentary on the upcoming rally and speaks on her expertise in community organizing.  Throughout the episode, Feldman talks about the historical importance of protest and how it has been a way to coalesce communities in times of dissatisfaction and uncertainty. As an expert in politics, Feldman also delves into the implications that more No Kings rallies across the country could have on the balance of power heading into the November midterm elections.   Learn more about Feldman’s work by visiting  heidilifeldman.com  Editor’s note: Heidi Li Feldman participated in this interview in her individual capacity, not in affiliation with anyone responsible for organizing the March 28 No Kings 3 rally in Santa Fe.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former New Mexico poet laureate and author Lauren Camp is getting ready for the release of a new poetry book this spring called Is Is Enough. Published by Texas A&M University Press, the book transmutes the raw emotions from a time in Camp’s life where she was tasked with caring for a parent diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.   The circumstance required her to find balance in a new reality that guaranteed many unknowns. For some, coping with this type of struggle is an unbearable and insurmountable ask. However, for Camp, a poet, processing her feelings meant articulating them on paper and sharing with the world in hopes of finding comfort.   Camp joins the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different” to discuss with host Inez Russell Gomez the creative process behind writing Is Is Enough and explains why it will be a good resource for others experiencing similar grief.   Throughout the episode, Camp also delves into some of her past work as New Mexico’s poet laureate, which involved traveling the state and listening to peoples' hometown stories. She shares what moments stood out to her most and how they became part of a documentary initiative she founded called the New Mexico Epic Poem Project.   For more information about the new book and upcoming tour dates, including a stop at Collected Works in Santa Fe, visit laurencamp.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Mexico’s economic potential has yet to be achieved but is on the cusp of something remarkable. That is the sentiment of Meg Whitman, a former U.S. Ambassador to Kenya, former CEO and president of eBay and Hewlett-Packard, and now a new resident of the state.   Whitman’s thoughts, as outlined in an opinion piece published by the Santa Fe New Mexican, contrast with what many perceive as a place that has historically seen slow and stagnant economic growth. The consequence for a lack of growth? Missed opportunities.   That outcome won’t be the case for long; however, if smart financial investments from the Legislature and the private sector are able to come to fruition, Whitman argues.   On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez speaks with Whitman about what investments she sees as New Mexico’s path to economic prosperity and the impact they could have on its reputation as a leader for future development.   In the episode, Whitman also answers questions about her involvement in politics from her involvement in presidential campaigns, a run for California governor and any future political plans. To end the interview on a high note, Whitman addresses a heated question guaranteed to divide many New Mexicans: red or green? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Attacks on transgender individuals in our country have been rampant in recent years due to change in our political systems and environments. The issue has stemmed from debates over controversial policies related to transgender individuals in classrooms, bathrooms and sports teams. Not everyone sees eye-to-eye on this topic, including Dr. sj Miller, a Santa Fe-based educator, activist and now author.   sj joins the latest episode of “Conversations Different” to discuss with host Inez Russell Gomez the various challenges that educators are facing in navigating anti-transgender laws implemented by various states. sj also discusses what impact new laws are having in schools and on children.  A new book by sj, We Refuse to Disappear: Resistance Amid Anti-Trans Education Policy, examines some those laws and provides a helpful roadmap for conversations around gender identity.   Throughout the episode, Inez and sj delve into the book’s themes and what readers can expect when it launches this year ahead of the midterm elections.   For more information, visit https://sjmiller.info/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez interviews Santa Fe author and historian Garrett Peck about an upcoming book he is getting ready to launch March 10.  The book, titled The Bright Edges of the World: Willa Cather and her Archbishop, chronicles parts of writer Willa Cather’s story, particularly how she gained inspiration from her travels to the Southwest.   According to Peck, his book explores Cather’s articles, interviews, postcards and letters to help capture her thoughts about her trips and how they led her to produce three novels, with some gaining strong popularity. While reading a chapter of Death Comes for the Archbishop, one of those novels, Peck said the vision and name for his book started to take shape.   To close out the episode, Peck shares information about where to find his book and previews local signing events where he will delve into his creative process. Visit garrettpeck.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tired of the dating apps and relationships that lead to nowhere? You’re not alone. A popular social networking group in Santa Fe is ditching the online sphere for an in-person one-of-a-kind experience meant to bring people of all ages together for connection, dates and even friendship.    On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez speaks with Local Singles founder Margaret “Maggie” Lambe about her inspiration for starting the singles group and how it has led to a positive impact on the greater community. The group’s founding has revived a spark in people’s need for socialization outside of their daily lives, Lambe says.   Throughout the episode, Inez and Maggie discuss what it’s like to attend one of the group’s many social events that take place throughout the year and also reflect on the importance of social connection for your health and well-being.   To close out the episode, Lambe shares information about her website, a hub to find out when her social events will be happening as well as a place to find other curated services to help in your love journey. The website is localsingles.me  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vaccination guidance for children at the federal level is changing under new directives from U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and with it comes much confusion about the number of vaccines now being recommended for kids as well as which ones will still be easily accessible.   In New Mexico, the state Department of Health recently made clear that it intends to follow the vaccine schedule provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics despite the new federal recommendations under Kennedy.   On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez speaks with state health department officials Dr. Miranda Durham, chief medical officer, and Andrea Romero, manager of the immunization program, about New Mexico’s decision to maintain a full robust vaccination schedule for children.   Durham and Romero discuss what they want the public to know about access to vaccines in our state, clarify any skepticism that parents may have about effectiveness and talk about available resources to make the right health decisions for your family.   One of the resources Durham and Romero note in this episode is the NMDOH helpline where health professionals are available to answer your medical questions. The number is 1-833-796-8773See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez talks with author, historian and podcaster Dan Flores about the new edition of his New York Times best-selling book Coyote America: A Natural and Supernatural History.   The book, according to its summary, highlights the biological backstory of the coyote and explores how its existence throughout time has been to survive among other animals, cultures and even human efforts to eradicate it. Flores said the rerelease includes more information about coyote migration and how they are rapidly expanding into South America.   Throughout the episode, Inez and Dan also discuss his telling of Western U.S. history on his own podcast called The American West, hosted on the MeatEater Podcast Network. The podcast focuses on wildlife, landscapes and influential historical figures of the West. It’s an overall thought-provoking listening experience worth checking out.   Flores closes off this podcast with a reflection of what brought him to New Mexico as well as what it’s like to write and discuss new works for publication in today’s political climate. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

4Corners K-9 Search and Rescue, based out of the Farmington area, has been around for nearly five years helping New Mexico families in their most desperate times in trying to locate reported missing individuals especially those classified as Missing and Murdered Indigenous People.   The mission of the nonprofit according to its website is to provide relief and compassion during the agonizing trauma of having to locate a missing loved one. The organization has also taken on the task of performing outreach efforts with communities and officials to streamline search processes that could potentially lead to better outcomes in some missing person cases.   On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez talks with 4Corners K-9 Search and Rescue Executive Director Bernadine Beyale about her backstory into starting the nonprofit and what it means to have a useful resource readily available in our state. She also shares some useful search and rescue tips that people might not be aware of when reporting a missing person.   For more information about 4Corners K-9 Search and Rescue visit 4ck9sar.org   Consider supporting their fundraiser on Jan. 24 at 2 p.m. at the Santa Fe Women’s Club. The short film Gomeo Bobelu - Lightning Unveiled produced by Jaima Chevalier will be screened with Beyale discussing her rescue dogs’ work on tribal lands.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a time of political division in our country, one Santa Fe man has made it his mission to bridge the divide through humanitarian work and sharing stories. His firsthand accounts with migrants, residents and federal agents, who all claim allegiance along the U.S.-Mexico borderlands, give a glimpse into the conditions in that region and how politics over policy is impacting everyday lives.   Morgan Smith, a retired lawyer and governmental official, says he's been involved with Mexico since being a college student but has taken that task to heart in recent years with his visual and written reporting. He joins “Conversations Different” host Inez Russell Gomez in the latest podcast episode to share insight into his numerous trips to the border and what they have taught him about people and immigration.   Smith also reflects on the volunteer aspect of his trips which involve him loading up his vehicle with items and donating them to local shelters or individuals in need in the El Paso/Ciudad Juárez area.   Connect with Morgan to hear more of his stories or to donate for his next trip. He can be reached at [email protected]  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the latest episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez welcomes Zia Singers artistic director John Tiranno and singer and composer Susan Anders, on the podcast to preview the group’s upcoming January concert.   The concert is titled “Voices of Life, Voices of Light” and will feature exclusive musical works written by women, a choice Tiranno said was a clever idea of his and a way to honor the talents of The Zia Singers, an all-women based chorus.   Throughout the episode, Tiranno and Anders share what concertgoers can expect from two of the pieces that will be performed: Everyday Wonders: The Girl from Aleppo by Cecilia McDowall and a "A Wave That Rocks Me,” a song composed by Anders.   The concert will be on Jan.10th and 11th at Christ Church in Santa Fe. For more information and to get tickets, visit theziasingers.org.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the latest episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez chats with former TV meteorologist Jay Faught about everyone’s favorite subject — the weather. The two discuss Faught’s transition from camera life into private life and how his never-ending passion for meteorology inspired him to start posting his own weather forecasts online and on social media.   Throughout the episode, Faught talks about the uniqueness of Santa Fe’s topography and how it motivated him to tap into localized weather forecasting that he says will help residents plan their days more efficiently. The local forecasts can also help residents be prepared during times of emergency and changing conditions, he said.   Faught’s forecasts can be found by visiting his website santafewx.com or following his popular Facebook page and group Santa Fe Weather See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Author and storyteller Joe Hayes has been traveling the country for more than 40 years to share the stories of the Southwest. As an established author, he has published over 25 books and was also a resident storyteller at the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian in Santa Fe for 39 years.   In the latest episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez revisits this previously aired interview with Hayes that highlights how he made a career out of being a storyteller, what influences inspired his style of narration and why he feels it’s important to tell stories in both Spanish and English as somebody who was raised in a border town in Arizona.   Hayes closes the episode by telling the story of The Wise Little Burro, a treat for listeners and viewers ahead of Christmas celebrations.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legendary New Mexican sculptor Michael Naranjo is the face of a new documentary that highlights what it means to go through life’s struggles and still come out on top. His story is an inspiration to all because Naranjo, who lost his eyesight in battle during the Vietnam War, has had to adapt while learning his craft. His injuries didn’t stop him from living life and achieving his goals, according to Jenna Naranjo Winters, his daughter and producer of the documentary.   Naranjo Winters joins “Conversations Different” host Inez Russell Gomez in discussing a behind-the-scenes look into producing the film, Dream Touch Believe. She discusses what inspired her to pursue the project and how the film has made an impact across festivals and communities, especially in New Mexico.   Naranjo Winters also reflects on her background, growing up on the Santa Clara Pueblo and working at the Santa Fe New Mexican on her way to becoming a professional TV and film producer in Los Angeles, Calif.   Learn more about the film by visiting its website, dreamtouchbelieve.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Mexico is known for many things, but its public lands are unmatched if you ask some of the avid outdoors enthusiasts of our state and the ordinary people who have lived here for generations. Whether you're hiking the mountaintops of Santa Fe Baldy or basking in the white gypsum dunes at White Sands National Park, there is something special about our landscapes that have garnered deep appreciation on a personal level for people and on a public policy level for officials.   Nuestra Tierra Conservation Project, a nonprofit based in Las Cruces, takes that appreciation to heart as one of its guiding principles.    The nonprofit’s executive director Angel Peña joins the latest episode of “Conversations Different,” to discuss what led to the founding of his organization, the work he and his team are doing to preserve access to New Mexico’s public lands and what he hopes his group will accomplish in the near future as it navigates resource challenges and uncertainty at the federal level.   Peña also reflects on the cultural significance that our lands have on the state’s diverse populations and why securing access for them is just as important.   Visit nuestra-tierra.org to learn more about the organization and how to support its efforts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When looking back at the history of the atomic bomb and its origins in New Mexico, the narrative often centers on American innovation and the United States as the first nation to create such a deadly weapon. There’s another essential perspective — that of the Japanese people. They endured the devastating consequences of the 1945 Hiroshima bombings and its long-lasting impact on the country in the years following.   In the latest episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez speaks with Eria Matsumae, a Hiroshima peace guide whose work is mostly in Hiroshima but is also international. The two discuss Eria’s efforts to inform people about the historical impact of the bombings and how to bring about future societal peace among nations to avoid another catastrophe from taking place.   Eria also shares details about her visit to New Mexico, which was inspired by an encounter abroad with Rotary Santa Fe Centro Passport Club President Claudia Gerst. Eria and Claudia briefly reflect on the encounter that led to their friendship, a New Mexico trip and a one-day peace conference that was held in Santa Fe. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Confidence, discipline and resilience are all essential traits for living a fulfilling life, especially for kids searching for their place in the real world. In Santa Fe, Tony Potter is helping the next generation, and their families, build these qualities through the power of martial arts.  As president of It All Matters Inc., Potter joined “Conversations Different” host Inez Russell Gomez in discussing the nonprofit’s mission to uplift children and create a space for them to strengthen their emotional, cognitive, physical and social skills, while emphasizing the importance of building people up rather than tearing them down.   Potter also briefly shares on the personal journey he took to get to this line of work and how it has shaped his view of life thus far.   The It All Matters Inc. martial arts program has been around for 23 years. Learn more about the program and an upcoming January gala by visiting ItAllMattersInc.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Not every student learns and comprehends the same. It's a shared reality among parents and educators struggling to get a student the instructional support that they need to stay on target with their education. And it’s a belief that Amy Miller, a former teacher, has known too well throughout her years in the classroom.   Miller, a founder and director of the May Center for Learning based in Santa Fe, joins the latest episode of “Conversations Different” to explain how the center is helping kids in grades K-8 navigate their learning challenges, or as the center calls them, “learning differences.” She elaborates on some of the solutions the school provides, like a specialized curriculum, hands-on learning and a low student-to-teacher ratio environment.  Miller also discusses the factors that led to her founding the school in 2011 and how she hopes it will serve as an alternative to traditional schooling practices.   For more information about the May Center for Learning and its offerings, visit maycenter.org See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How to hold to account criminals found to be incompetent in New Mexico is a divisive issue, especially to those who have been a victim of a crime.    The state courts are jumping into that debate and hope to alleviate some of those concerns by implementing a new competency diversion pilot program that has launched in select jurisdictions. One of the program’s goals is to get eligible mentally ill offenders the resources and treatment they need to be able to fit within society instead of being circled through an already stressed legal system.    Justice Briana Zamora of the New Mexico Supreme Court joins the latest episode of “Conversations Different” to discuss the diversion program, what kind of impact she hopes the program will have on our communities and the challenges she’s experienced when dealing with cases involving mentally incompetent individuals.   Justice Zamora also elaborates on the need for agency and legislative collaboration for the diversion program to be effective, saying it will require significant long-term investment to see results.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new digital repository and database dedicated to preserving the history of enslaved Indigenous people across the United States launches this month. Dr. Estevan Rael-Gálvez, a native New Mexican and former state historian, is in charge of the project and says one of the goals is to bridge the past with the present — or to build an “ofrenda.”   Rael-Gálvez joins Conversations Different podcast host Inez Russell Gomez in the latest episode discussing efforts he’s undertaken to uncover the roots and stories of Indigenous slavery especially here in Northern New Mexico. He shares insight into the years-long journey of doing extensive research into genealogical records, public reports and firsthand accounts for the new repository that went live Nov.1.    Rael-Gálvez also discusses his background, growing up on the Northern New Mexico/Southern Colorado border and being told of his ancestral connections that made him question his own relation to Indigeneity. He said family conversations and natural curiosity inspired him to pursue this project.  The project is called Native Bound Unbound and more information can be found by visiting nativeboundunbound.org See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On a visit to J. Robert Oppenheimer’s Los Alamos house earlier this year, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright referred to the development of artificial intelligence as a “second Manhattan Project race” that the U.S. needs to win. With Los Alamos National Laboratory’s supercomputers, scientific workforce and collaborations with companies including OpenAI and NVIDIA, lab officials have said the facility aims to be a leader in the AI arena. In the latest episode of “Conversations Different,” LANL Director Thom Mason speaks with host Inez Russell Gomez about artificial intelligence, describing what it is and why so many people are excited about it. He also discusses how AI is being used at LANL and how it can help increase productivity for lab workers. Mason talks about Venado, the lab’s newest supercomputer, and what it’s used for. Gomez asks him about the lab’s need for more power, and how much of that comes from its AI endeavors. Mason also discusses how AI can be used in education, how it could impact the workforce, the opportunities for AI in New Mexico, and concerns that have arisen about the technology as it becomes more advanced.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Contigo Immigrant Justice, formerly known as the Santa Fe Dreamers Project, is an organization that has long served the community of Santa Fe and New Mexico by providing immigration advocacy and services for undocumented people.   Over the last year, the nonprofit has celebrated numerous milestones from its 10-year anniversary in 2024 to selecting a new executive director. Another huge milestone is a new name with a special meaning behind it — Contigo Immigrant Justice — where “Contigo,” a Spanish word that means together, is meant to reflect a sense of community in the fight for immigrant rights.    Miles Tokunow, executive director, joins the latest episode of “Conversations Different” to discuss the rebrand, his assessment of current immigration challenges facing his organization and the rest of the country, and why getting involved in any capacity is important.   Contigo Immigrant Justice’s work comes during strong political polarization over how to best address fair immigration processes, border security and the future of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.   If you want to learn more or support its efforts, visit contigojustice.org where you can also find information about the upcoming Fight for Immigrant Justice Gala on Nov.13 in Santa Fe.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new documentary featuring the legacy of long-time editorial cartoonist Pat Oliphant showcases the significance of commentary and discourse in our democratic systems and why political art is a medium that should be preserved.   Oliphant’s life story is the focus of the documentary titled A Savage Art: The Life & Cartoons of Pat Oliphant, produced by Santa Fe resident Bill Banowsky. The film explores his personal and professional pathway toward becoming a well-known editorial cartoonist in the United States despite being born in Australia.    Oliphant’s work spanned nearly 50 years covering both U.S. political parties and 10 presidents for newspapers like The Denver Post and The Washington Star. His work was also syndicated around the world until his retirement in 2015.   Banowsky joins the latest episode of “Conversations Different” to discuss what it was like documenting the now 90-year-old Pulitzer Prize winning cartoonist, how he came to know Oliphant and what viewers can expect.    To learn more about the film visit asavageart.com. For tickets and screening dates, visit magpictures.com/asavageart/home.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amid federal funding challenges for tribal colleges and universities, the Institute of American Indian Arts also has had to adapt in recent months to new institutional leadership with the retirement of one president and the ushering in of another.   In the latest episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez talks with Dr. Shelly C. Lowe about her transition into the presidency at IAIA. Lowe was appointed by the IAIA Board of Trustees following the retirement of long-time President Dr. Robert Martin in July. She assumed the role Aug.1.   The two discuss Lowe’s first month learning the ropes, her pathway to higher education which stemmed from being a top student in Arizona, and the hard work that IAIA is doing to educate, showcase and enhance Native history and expression beyond Santa Fe.    Lowe’s achievements include teaching and administrative positions at the University of Arizona, Yale University and Harvard University, with her most recent position being chair of the National Endowment for the Humanities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In New Mexico, we often get a bad rap for being at the bottom of many ranking lists, and education happens to be one of those issues. However, not everyone believes numerical judgements are justified especially New Mexico Lt. Gov. Howie Morales.   In the latest episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez talks with Lt. Gov. Morales about efforts being made to improve education and early childhood development outcomes in our state.   The two discuss what the Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham administration and lawmakers have done under her tenure for education such as establishing the Early Childhood Education and Care Department, bringing free tuition to New Mexico’s public colleges and universities, and free childcare for families coming in November. As a result, Morales said those achievements are proof New Mexico is not behind but rather ahead of the game.     Morales said he’s proud to have worked with the governor to secure those investments and explains how it will set kids and families up for success in the future.   He also briefly talks about what he hopes his lieutenant governor legacy will be as he prepares for his last year in the position. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For desert states like New Mexico, water is a valuable resource that powers our agricultural industry, our acequia culture and our taps in our homes. As a result, deciding how to best allocate this scarce resource is a challenge due to the various stakeholders all vying for its usage.   That’s where the New Mexico Interstate Water Commission, part of the Office of the State Engineer, comes in. This organization has undertaken the task to plan and manage our water sources for the best chances and outcomes of long-term sustainability. Without its work, unfair water usage and depleted sources would be inevitable.   Andrew Erdmann and Sara Fox, both planners with the New Mexico Interstate Water Commission, join “Conversations Different” to discuss the complexities of regional water planning, how enforcement of rules and regions are decided, and an upcoming public hearing focused on the Proposed Rule, a framework that would outline water planning processes across the state.   For more information about the commission and to participate in the upcoming hearing, visit ose.nm.gov or mainstreamnm.org.   The written public comment period for the Proposed Rule is now open and closes Sept. 27. The public hearing meeting will take place Oct.15-17 in Santa Fe at the Willie Ortiz Building on Cerrillos Road. View the public notice for more details.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

During the month of September, suicide prevention and awareness is being highlighted all throughout the country especially here in New Mexico where the numbers show us a bleak picture — suicide cases are on the rise.   In the latest episode of “Conversations Different,” lead Suicide Prevention Coordinator Clarie Miller from the New Mexico Department of Health talks about the implications of new data showing rising deaths in the state and how to provide support to people struggling with their mental health in times of crisis.   Miller discusses the importance of knowing where to find resources, like the Department of Health website, knowing how to use 988, the nation’s suicide prevention lifeline, and simply just knowing the appropriate things to say to someone regardless of the social environment.    If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health and may have suicidal thoughts, visit the New Mexico Department of Health suicide prevention website, the 988 Lifeline website or call 988.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.