Join host Michael Shanley on The Aid Market podcast as he sits down with former Senior USAID Official, Chuck Pope.  In this episode, Chuck provides a deep dive into pivotal trends shaping USAID's approach, covering topics such as the emphasis on localization, the innovative New Partnerships Initiative, and the expanding role of Small Business Utilization.  The conversation extends to the intersection of artificial intelligence in aid efforts, offering a glimpse into the transformative potential that technology brings to the forefront. IN THIS EPISODE: [02:00] Chuck describes the catastrophic staffing crisis at the USAID [06:42] What changes does Chuck expect to see in light of the current global context  [11:02] Chuck's helpful 4-part infographics solution:  what's the problem, what's the proposed solution, what's the policy, and what's the precedent [13:05] Chuck discusses the context relating to localization and discusses the New Partnerships Initiative [26:34] Chuck discusses partnering with veteran owned US small businesses [35:32] Chuck summarizes his views on Ukraine and Zelensky’s administration and that the US should defend Ukraine [49:07] Chuck shares what happens if there is a government shutdown on September 30th and how essential and non-essential employees are determined [55:15] How does the 2024 election affect USAID    KEY TAKEAWAYS:  Even with Republican Leadership in 2025, the localization agenda will continue. USAID’s biggest problem is staffing.   RESOURCES: Aid Market Podcast Mike Shanley - LinkedIn Pope International -  Website Chuck Pope - LinkedIn Chuck Pope - Email   BIOGRAPHY:    Pope International | Integrated Development Solutions was founded and is led by Charles S. “Chuck” Pope, a former USAID Foreign Service Contracting Officer and senior leader at the Agency. Chuck started his development career in Russia, becoming a Russian speaker and spending most of his career either in the former Soviet Union or countries with historical ties to Russia. His overseas tours in the Foreign Service were in Russia, Afghanistan, Tanzania and India. As a senior Contracting Officer, Chuck supported previous versions of current initiatives like Localization and Private Sector Engagement and personally signed the New Partnerships Initiative into force. Chuck served on both COVID-19 task forces as an acting Deputy Assistant Administrator and Chief of Operations in the Global Health Bureau. His final senior leadership assignment at the Agency before retirement last year was as Senior Regional Advisor for the Middle East. Chuck’s company embodies his strong belief in seeking, forming, and nurturing partnerships by providing the following high-quality services to its partners: International Aid & Development; Business Development; Acquisition & Assistance Support; Capacity Building, Capture Management; Compliance and risk Management; Program & Project Management; and Course & Curriculum Development. Partner with him today at https://pope.international/