Our Team
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William Barth, Host
Dr. William K. Barth is a distinguished lawyer and academic with a storied career spanning government service, academia, and public interest advocacy. With a deep commitment to social justice, Dr. Barth brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to The Praxis Report.
Professional Background
Dr. Barth’s career highlights include serving as the Director of Community Planning and Development for Southern California at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development during the Bill Clinton administration. In this capacity, he played a pivotal role in advancing community development initiatives and fostering economic empowerment in underserved areas.
Following his government service, Dr. Barth pursued a doctorate (DPhil) in Politics at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom. His research focused on multiculturalism and minority rights under international law, culminating in his acclaimed book, On Cultural Rights: The Equality of Nations and the Minority Legal Tradition (2007). This seminal work examines minority group case studies, including the legal and social status of European Roma communities.
A graduate of Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, Dr. Barth has also made significant contributions as a public interest lawyer. He has tirelessly advocated for apartment renters, neighborhood homeowners, and industrial employees, ensuring their rights and voices are upheld.
Currently, Dr. Barth heads a private law practice dedicated to securing benefits and medical treatment for undocumented migrant workers injured in industrial accidents. His work underscores his unwavering commitment to oppressed communities and the pursuit of justice.
Personal Life
Dr. Barth is a proud native of Los Angeles, where his love for jazz music enriches his vibrant lifestyle. An avid long-distance runner, he has trained for and participated in several marathons, demonstrating his discipline and dedication both personally and professionally.
Through his multifaceted career and personal pursuits, Dr. William K. Barth embodies the principles of justice, liberation, and democracy — values that resonate deeply with the mission of The Praxis Report.
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Jonathan Brown, Host
Jonathan Brown is a dedicated history teacher, sociologist, writer, and political theorist whose research focuses on political economy and cultural studies from a Marxian perspective. His multifaceted career in public education and political activism brings a distinctive and insightful voice to The Praxis Report.
Professional Background
Mr. Brown earned his undergraduate degree in Sociology from the University of Georgia and a Master’s Degree from California State University, Northridge. During his academic journey, he published original research and participated in numerous sociology conferences, contributing to the broader sociological discourse. He was also deeply involved in political activism, including the anti-war movement during the Iraq War, protests against Israeli occupation, and movements such as Occupy Wall Street.
Currently, Mr. Brown serves as a public school teacher in Athens, Georgia, where he inspires high school students through his engaging social studies classes. His teaching repertoire includes "World History," "Economics," "US History," and "American Government." Beyond the classroom, he encourages students to actively participate in local politics and community organizing, fostering a sense of civic responsibility and social awareness.
In addition to his work in public schools, Mr. Brown is an adjunct professor of Sociology at Athens Technical College. He teaches "Introduction to Sociology," where he cultivates students’ sociological imagination, encouraging them to critically analyze societal structures and inequalities.
Mr. Brown is also an influential figure in the American Communist Party (ACP). As an active leader of the Georgia chapter and a member of the National Board of Education for the ACP, he is instrumental in developing educational curricula aimed at advancing public understanding of Marxist social theory. His vision focuses on creating a uniquely American socialism that addresses the nation’s distinct historical and cultural context.
Personal Life
Born in Texas and raised in Georgia, Mr. Brown’s Southern roots have profoundly shaped his worldview and activism. A passionate lover of rock music, he has been an active participant in the music scene, playing in several bands over the years. This creative outlet complements his intellectual pursuits, showcasing his multifaceted personality.
Through his career and personal endeavors, Jonathan Brown exemplifies the principles of critical inquiry, revolutionary thought, and cultural engagement — values that align with the mission of The Praxis Report.
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Jessica Ivie, editor & producer
Jessica Ivie is an experienced editor and producer whose work focuses on bringing thoughtful analysis and transformative ideas to the forefront of public discourse. Her contributions to The Praxis Report reflect her commitment to exploring critical issues and fostering informed dialogue.
Professional Background
Ms. Ivie has worked across various media platforms, including print, digital, and broadcast, honing her expertise in content creation, editorial direction, and investigative reporting. Additionally, she has a rich background in video production and social media marketing, where she has worked with multiple businesses to enhance their content strategies and expand their audiences. Her creative vision and strategic insights have helped clients amplify their messaging and reach wider communities.
In her role at The Praxis Report, Ms. Ivie manages editorial strategy and oversees the production of both the podcast and digital publication’s in-depth analyses, ensuring that each piece resonates with The Praxis Report’s mission of advancing critical thought and progressive ideas. Her meticulous attention to detail and her passion for storytelling have been pivotal in shaping The Praxis Report’s voice and impact.
Personal Life
Originally from Miami, FL, Ms. Ivie has called Athens, GA home for the past twenty years. Her connection to these two vibrant communities has shaped her perspective, blending the cultural richness of her SoFlo roots with the intillectual and artistic spirit of Athens.
An avid supporter of the arts, she enjoys attending theater performances and attending local shows in the Athens music scene. She is also passionate about exploring new cultures and perspectives through travel, which continues to inform her creative and editorial vision.
Through her work at The Praxis Report and beyond, Jessica Ivie exemplifies a dedication to amplifying transformative ideas and fostering meaning engagement, making her an invaluable contributor.