The Powell Perspective™

06/11/2025

Publius

Constitutional Constraints on Presidential Overreach Against States

This article examines how the Constitution’s separation of powers and anti-commandeering doctrine limit federal executive overreach into state governance, highlighting legal arguments to challenge presidential actions that undermine state authority. Full article - https://statecourtreport.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/how-constitution-constrains-presidential-overreach-against-states

Federal Courts and the Containment of Presidential Power Grabs

This piece analyzes the judiciary’s critical role in curbing executive overreach, particularly when Congress fails to act as a check, and explores ongoing legal battles over presidential attempts to expand constitutional authority. Full article - https://www.americanprogress.org/article/the-president-and-constitutional-violations-will-the-federal-courts-contain-the-presidents-power-grabs/

The RE Doctor

This article examines recent regulatory changes impacting affordable housing development, analyzing density controls and their effects on rental prices and home appreciation across metropolitan areas. It highlights policy shifts aimed at increasing workforce housing supply through revised zoning laws and public-private partnerships, with case studies demonstrating successful strategies for balancing urban growth and affordability. Full article - https://www.huduser.gov/portal/periodicals/cityscpe/vol23num1/Cityscape-March-2021.pdf

ADU Integration in Smart Urban Development

This piece explores how accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are being leveraged with proptech solutions to address housing shortages, featuring automated permit approval systems and modular construction techniques. It discusses municipalities' adoption of streamlined ADU regulations while maintaining neighborhood character, alongside financial innovations like ADU-specific REITs attracting institutional investors. Full article - https://www.rentastic.io/blog/real-estate-technology-trends-2025

Skier Tom

12-Week PSIA Level 1 & 2 Certification Course

This article details Snow Trainers’ comprehensive 12-week ski instructor certification program, which prepares candidates for PSIA-RM Level 1 and 2 exams. The course includes on-snow training, video analysis, lift-line priority, accommodation in Frisco, and access to employee cafeterias. It emphasizes developing technical skiing skills and teaching methodologies through structured sessions led by PSIA-RM trainers. Full article - www.snowtrainers.com/product/12-week-level-1-2-certification-course-ski-usa/

PSIA Junior Instructor Program at Maple Ski Ridge

This article highlights a youth-focused initiative for aspiring ski instructors aged 12–14, offering PSIA-AASI-recognized training. Participants complete online modules, on-snow instruction, and shadowing hours while learning leadership, communication, and teaching skills. Graduates gain eligibility for instructor roles at Maple Ski Ridge, fostering community engagement and career pathways in mountain sports. Full article - www.mapleskiridge.com/psia-junior-instructor-ski-program

Founder's Paradox

Founder Worship and Corporate Governance Risks

This article examines the dangers of idolizing startup founders, highlighting how excessive founder control can lead to governance failures and legal vulnerabilities. It advocates for early adoption of ethics codes, robust due diligence by investors, and compliance-focused strategies in high-risk sectors to prevent scenarios like the FTX collapse. Full article - https://clsbluesky.law.columbia.edu/2025/05/20/the-perils-of-founder-worship/

This piece outlines actionable steps to mitigate risks from founder dynamics, emphasizing structured board composition, formal governance practices, and proactive removal of passive directors. It stresses aligning governance with growth stages to maintain agility while ensuring accountability. Full article - https://www.svrlawyers.com/news-highlights-posts/2025/2/6/start-smart-founder-proof-your-startup

Secrets of Capital Raising

This article explores strategic approaches for early-stage startups seeking capital in 2025’s competitive venture environment, emphasizing structured fundraising processes, data room preparedness, and alternative financing options like revenue-based financing. It highlights the importance of metrics-driven storytelling and diversified funding pathways in a transformed VC ecosystem.
Full article - https://www.rightsidecapital.com/blog/navigating-the-2025-fundraising-landscape-strategic-insights-for-early-stage-startups

Private Equity Strategies: From Venture Capital to Growth Equity

This analysis breaks down core private equity strategies, focusing on venture capital’s high-risk/high-reward dynamics and growth equity’s operational scaling playbook. It contrasts investment philosophies, team structures, and industry specialization while examining evolving LP expectations and sector-focused fund trends in 2025.
Full article - https://mergersandinquisitions.com/private-equity-strategies/