This week on the pod, we’re continuing our back-to-school conversation. There’s so much for parents to worry about: school shootings, Covid, book bans, teacher shortages, and more. But before we get to all that, our hosts Amanda Weinstein, Jasmine Clark, and Rachel Vindman talk about Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan.  They discuss how frustrating it is to hear wealthy Republicans complain about $10,000 loan forgiveness when so many of them had PPP loans forgiven… but what’s NOT frustrating is the White House’s response! We’re so glad Biden and his team are fighting back against misinformation.

The hosts are then joined by Pam Crossman, a high school teacher in Ohio. Pam talks about how hard it is to be an educator right now, with her curriculum being questioned by extremists at the same time as they expect her to be the first line of defense against an active shooter. Pam also discusses her husband Jeff, who’s running for Attorney General right now to stand up against corruption and extremism in Ohio.

Amanda then interviews Dr. Katelyn Jetelina, best known online as “Your Local Epidemiologist.” Dr. Katelyn is a science communicator who specializes in gun violence, but became famous for her daily Covid updates. She and Amanda discuss the causes of our gun violence epidemic and some potential solutions - along with Dr. Katelyn’s thoughts about Covid and vaccines as kids go back to school.

Finally, Amanda, Jasmine and Rachel raise a glass to the first week of classes, birthdays, and to everyone out there who keeps fighting against extremism in this episode’s “Toast to Joy.”

On September 1st, Red Wine & Blue will be hosting a virtual Troublemaker Turnout event with Heather Cox Richardson. Come learn, get inspired, and commit to doing the MOST impactful thing you can do in the 2022 election to help protect our rights, freedom, and democracy. You can learn more and sign up here.

For a transcript of this episode, please email [email protected].

For a transcript of this episode, please email [email protected].

You can learn more about us at www.redwine.blue or follow us on social media!

Instagram: @RedWineBlueUSA

Facebook: @RedWineBlueUSA

YouTube: @RedWineBlueUSA