States of Innovation

Series produced by After the Fact

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Image by: The Pew Charitable Trusts 

The latest season of Pew’s “After the Fact” podcast looks at the innovative solutions some states are developing to meet long-standing problems. From making small loans more affordable for consumers, to improving community flood preparedness, to designing corridors for wildlife to migrate safely across high-traffic roads—protecting animals and drivers—state leaders are working together to tackle big challenges.

The latest season of Pew’s “After the Fact” podcast looks at the innovative solutions some states are developing to meet long-standing problems. From making small loans more affordable for consumers, to improving community flood preparedness, to designing corridors for wildlife to migrate safely across high-traffic roads—protecting animals and drivers—state leaders are working together to tackle big challenges.

We speak with Sue Urahn, Pew’s new president and CEO, about the role of data in state policymaking and share five of these stories of innovation from around the nation. Join us as we explore how states are finding new ways to solve problems, even during a pandemic, and hear from the leaders and experts who are making a difference.


6 Pieces

Order by: Newest First | Oldest First
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In the first episode of our season “States of Innovation,” Sue Urahn, Pew’s new president and CEO, discusses the role of state governments as “labo...

Bought by RadioStPete Florida


  • Added: Dec 21, 2020
  • Length: 15:22
  • Purchases: 1
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Payday loans can help people facing an unexpected financial crunch—but can also bring unexpected problems. Ohio adopted an innovative new law to pr...

  • Added: Dec 23, 2020
  • Length: 18:29
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Floods are the costliest natural disasters in the United States, but there are ways to prepare for the storms ahead.

  • Added: Jan 08, 2021
  • Length: 17:27
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As the coronavirus pandemic grips the world, the opioid epidemic continues to affect millions of Americans. Several states are developing innovativ...

  • Added: Jan 15, 2021
  • Length: 22:30
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n America’s West, animal herds follow ancient migration routes that are bisected by roads and highways. In this episode, we hear from Matt Skroch, ...

Bought by Wyoming Public Radio


  • Added: Jan 22, 2021
  • Length: 17:27
  • Purchases: 1
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Public employees count on pensions when they retire, but most states haven’t adequately funded their obligations. As of 2018, the funding gap for a...

  • Added: Jan 29, 2021
  • Length: 19:30