In this episode of Regulation Matters: a CLEAR conversation, host Line Dempsey speaks with Jennifer Garrett and Richard Woolf about what happens when regulators step outside traditional channels to better understand how the public perceives professional regulation. Drawing on Jennifer’s direct outreach to civic groups and Rich’s national perception data, the conversation reveals a significant awareness gap. Most individuals have little to no understanding of regulatory boards or their role in public protection. Yet, once informed, public support for regulation is strong. The discussion explores how this disconnect impacts recruitment for board service, highlights the importance of effective onboarding and training for public members, and underscores the need for regulators to communicate more clearly and consistently about their role. From leveraging community networks and social media to empowering current board members as ambassadors, the episode offers practical insights for strengthening public engagement, improving recruitment pipelines, and building more resilient regulatory systems.

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Episode 100 of Regulation Matters: a CLEAR conversation revisits one of the podcast’s most enduring questions: what does it mean to be a good regulator? Bringing together a diverse panel of global regulatory leaders, this milestone episode reflects on how the role has evolved amid rapid technological change, shifting public expectations, and increasing political and social pressures. From the growing need for agility and proactive oversight to the central importance of trust, transparency, and communication, the conversation explores the complex trade-offs regulators must navigate today. Panelists share insights on balancing public protection with broader public interest, embracing collaboration and continuous learning, and maintaining focus on mission in an increasingly noisy and scrutinized environment. The episode ultimately highlights that, while perfection may be unattainable, effective regulation is grounded in integrity, adaptability, and a clear commitment to serving the public.

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In this second installment of our awards series, host Line Dempsey continues highlighting CLEAR’s 2025 award recipients and their impact on public protection. Cindy Reinhardt of the Colorado Division of Professions and Occupations shares how her team’s investigation into the Return to Nature funeral home uncovered egregious misconduct, led to criminal charges and emergency regulatory action, and prompted legislative reforms that strengthened oversight statewide. The episode also features leaders from the Utah Department of Commerce, whose collaborative work to modernize behavioral health licensure and establish a forward-looking framework for AI in mental health expanded access while reinforcing consumer safeguards. Together, these conversations reflect regulatory excellence in action and the power of collaboration to drive meaningful reform.

Transcript: http://clearweb.drivehq.com/podcast_transcripts/CLEAR_podcast_episode99_awards2025-2_031026_transcript.pdf