Beyond The Campaign

In this episode of Beyond the Campaign, Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal discusses California legislation aimed at addressing the impact of social media on children and teens, including AB 1709 and AB 2. The conversation explores how addictive social media features can affect young people, the need for greater oversight and accountability from social media platforms, and efforts to create safer online environments for youth. Josh also shares insights into the role of parents, communities, and policymakers in protecting children online and addressing the growing concerns surrounding social media use, youth well-being, and digital safety.

What We're Talking About...

• California legislation AB 1709 and AB 2 addressing social media and youth safety
• Addictive social media features and their impact on children and teens
• Age verification and protections for teen social media accounts
• Social media use and its impact on youth mental health and well-being
• Government oversight and regulation of social media and technology companies
• Corporate accountability and penalties for negligence or harm to young users
• The role of parents, families, and communities in protecting children online
• Tech industry incentives, corporate interests, and Wall Street’s influence on social media platforms

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the episode and Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal

00:52 Overview of California's social media bills AB 1709 and AB 2

03:21 Details of AB 1709 and its focus on age restrictions and oversight

06:39 Penalties for harm and negligence under AB 2

07:46 Challenges of regulating teen accounts and verifying age

10:35 Impact of social media on youth mental health and development

12:32 The importance of ongoing measurement and regulation

15:40 Parental concerns and managing children's social media use

20:42 Tech industry incentives, Wall Street pressure, and ethical considerations

24:32 The role of social media companies as wellness companies

27:30 How parents and communities can get involved

34:26 Final thoughts and call to action for listeners

Links Mentioned

Info on California social media legislation: https://www.socialmediadelay.com

In this episode of Beyond the Campaign, Mitch Jones from Food & Water Watch explores the growing concerns surrounding data centers and the rapid development of artificial intelligence, including the potential risks of superintelligent AI. The conversation examines the environmental impact of data centers, including energy and water consumption, as well as potential public health and political consequences. Mitch also discusses how the expansion of AI infrastructure can affect local communities and why grassroots organizing, community activism, and public opposition are essential for holding corporations and policymakers accountable. Learn how communities can push back against unchecked data center development and advocate for a more sustainable and responsible approach to AI technology.

What We're Talking About...

• The environmental impact of hyperscale data centers and AI infrastructure
• Data center water consumption, energy use, and strain on local resources
• Potential public health risks associated with data center pollution and emissions
• The influence of Big Tech companies and billionaires on AI and data center policy
• Community organizing and grassroots activism against data center expansion
• Legislative efforts, moratoriums, and policies aimed at regulating data centers and AI development
• The potential risks of superintelligent AI and concerns about human extinction
• Bipartisan efforts to address the environmental and societal impacts of data centers and artificial intelligence

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest Mitch Jones

03:12 The alarming news about AI and its risks

04:41 The environmental and health impacts of data centers

08:02 Different types of data centers and their scale

10:08 Electricity and water usage of hyperscale data centers

12:18 Water pollution and chemical use in data centers

13:31 Noise and air pollution from data centers

14:01 Health impacts of smaller data centers

15:10 Disruption of local ecosystems and land use

19:02 What individuals can do to oppose data centers

20:03 Political landscape and bipartisan support for moratoriums

24:00 Legislative actions and bills to regulate AI and data centers

25:31 The global race for AI and robotics in China

27:18 Community organizing and grassroots efforts

28:05 The existential threat of superintelligent AI

30:48 The profit motive behind AI development

32:26 The potential for unity across political divides

33:24 Closing remarks and call to action

Links Mentioned

The Top 10 Reasons Data Centers Must Be Stopped: https://www.foodandwaterwatch.org/2026/03/04/the-top-10-reasons-data-centers-must-be-stopped/

What Do We Lose When Our Leaders Give Handouts to Data Centers: https://www.foodandwaterwatch.org/2026/06/08/data-center-tax-breaks-ohio/

Stop Data Centers Now! Campaign Toolkit: https://www.foodandwaterwatch.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FOR-WEB-Toolkit_-Stop-the-Data-Center-Buildout-2.pdf

In this episode of Beyond the Campaign, Michelle Glogovac sits down with Tiffany Muller of End Citizens United to examine the growing influence of money in American politics and what it means for the future of our democracy.

Tiffany breaks down the impact of dark money in elections, the history and consequences of the Citizens United Supreme Court decision, and how unlimited political spending has transformed campaign finance. She also discusses efforts to increase campaign finance transparency, advance meaningful political finance reform, and reduce the influence of wealthy donors and special interests on elections and public policy.

Most importantly, Tiffany explains what ordinary Americans can do to help restore integrity to the political system—from voter engagement and grassroots activism to holding elected officials accountable.

If you’ve ever wondered how money shapes elections, where dark money comes from, or what citizens can do to create a more transparent and accountable democracy, this episode of Beyond the Campaign is for you.

What We're Talking About...

• The influence of money in American politics and the impact of campaign finance on elections
• The history, origins, and lasting impact of the Citizens United Supreme Court decision
• What dark money is and how it influences political campaigns and elections
• Campaign finance reform, political transparency, and efforts to reduce the influence of money in politics
• The importance of voter engagement, grassroots activism, and citizen participation in strengthening democracy

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest Tiffany Muller

01:27 Who is Tiffany Muller and what is End Citizens United?

02:12 The mission to get money out of politics

03:28 Public opinion on corruption and campaign finance issues

04:40 What is Citizens United and its origins

06:04 How Citizens United changed campaign finance laws

07:44 Where does the money go in politics?

09:12 The role of super PACs and dark money

11:03 The impact of dark money on elections

12:28 The issue of stock trading and insider information in Congress

14:22 Foreign influence and corruption in politics

16:26 Recent Supreme Court rulings and their effects

19:21 How big money influences political campaigns

21:16 Strategies for fighting back against money in politics

24:30 What can ordinary Americans do to create change?

33:38 The power of voter engagement and grassroots activism

35:22 Closing thoughts and call to action

Links Mentioned

End Citizens United: http://www.endcitizensunited.org

In this episode of Beyond the Campaign, Michelle Glogovac interviews Congressman Sam Liccardo about the growing role of local governments and communities in shaping policy and protecting neighborhoods. They discuss efforts to prevent the development of ICE detention facilities, regulate data centers, and address the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI).

Congressman Liccardo shares insights into legal strategies, community activism, and policy proposals designed to give local governments greater power to respond to issues affecting their communities. The conversation explores immigration policy, data center regulation, AI concerns, local government authority, and how residents can engage in efforts to influence policy and protect their neighborhoods.

What We're Talking About...

• How local communities can use zoning laws and local ordinances to prevent ICE detention facilities
• How model ordinances and community toolkits can make local policy advocacy more accessible
• How interconnection permits and infrastructure regulations can impact data center development
• The role of community activism and public opposition in preventing the siting of detention facilities
• How federal legislation can support local governments in regulating data centers and other infrastructure
• Why public participation and community engagement are essential to shaping local government policies
• Strategies for empowering local governments and residents to protect their neighborhoods

Chapters

0:00 — Opening and local context

1:10 — Why the toolkit was created

2:37 — Using local power to create barriers

4:27 — Ordinances as a defense strategy

5:51 — From ICE enforcement to community impact

6:48 — Data centers, grids, and community benefits

12:29 — What people can do to help

Links Mentioned

Rep Liccardo's Toolkit: https://liccardo.house.gov/ice-detention-center-land-use-ordinance-toolkit

Rep Liccardo's website: https://liccardo.house.gov/

In this episode of Beyond the Campaign, Lindsey Patrick Wright shares her inspiring journey from career librarian to Tennessee State Senate candidate. She discusses why public libraries are essential to strong communities, the power of grassroots activism, and her commitment to protecting human rights in a challenging political landscape. The conversation explores civic engagement, public service, and the importance of standing up for equitable policies that strengthen communities across Tennessee and beyond.

What We're Talking About...

• Lindsey Patrick Wright's journey from librarian to Tennessee State Senate candidate
• The vital role of public libraries in strengthening communities and protecting democracy
• The impact of book banning, censorship, and intellectual freedom in schools
• Grassroots campaigning strategies that increase voter engagement and civic participation
• How social media shapes political campaigns, public discourse, and elections
• Why community representation matters in state and local government
• Strategies for flipping political seats and building momentum in Tennessee elections
• How national political issues influence local races and voter priorities

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Lindsey Patrick Wright and her background

02:00 Lindsey's journey from theater to librarianship

03:52 The multifaceted role of public libraries

09:03 Community activism and fighting book bans

12:50 The rise of Moms for Liberty and their impact

16:11 Lindsay's personal story and coming out as LGBTQ+

19:50 Deciding to run for office and the low bar for candidates

26:00 Gerrymandering and the fight to flip Tennessee seats

28:59 Engaging young voters and grassroots efforts

33:01 The role of social media in modern campaigning

36:10 How to support Lindsey's campaign and get involved

Links Mentioned

Lindsey Patrick Wright's campaign website: https://www.lindseyfortn.com

Instagram: @‌lindseypatrickwright

In this episode of Beyond the Campaign, host Michelle sits down with Sarah Jakle, founder and executive director of DemocraShe, a national nonpartisan organization dedicated to developing the next generation of civic leaders. Sarah shares how DemocraShe empowers historically underserved girls through leadership training, civic education, and political engagement opportunities.

Michelle and Sarah explore why increasing women's representation in politics matters, the systemic barriers women continue to face when running for office and serving in leadership roles, and the importance of creating pathways for young women to pursue careers in public service. They also discuss practical ways communities, educators, and mentors can support girls with political ambitions and help build a more inclusive and representative democracy.

This conversation offers valuable insights into women's leadership, civic engagement, political representation, youth empowerment, and the future of women in public office.

What We're Talking About...

• DemocraShe's mission to empower the next generation of women leaders
• Why women's representation in politics matters en face when running for political office
• How to support young women with political ambitions
• The importance of mentorship for young women leaders
• Strategies for increasing civic engagement among girls and young women
• Creating a more inclusive political landscape
• Building leadership skills early

Chapters

00:00-00:30 Introduction to Democracy and Civic Engagement

00:31-02:11 The Importance of Civic Education for Young Girls

02:12-0:3:32 Sarah Jakle's Journey and Motivation

03:33-07:51 Understanding the Brain's Role in Civic Participation

07:52-10:56 Teaching Skills for Overcoming Self-Doubt

10:57-14:26 Success Stories and Impact of the Program

14:27-32:32 Mentorship and Future Goals

Links Mentioned

DemocraShe's website: https://www.democrashe.org

Congressman Ro Khanna joins Michelle Glogovac on Beyond the Campaign to sound the alarm on Section 224 of the National Defense Authorization Act — a provision buried in the must-pass defense bill that would permanently merge U.S. and Israeli military infrastructure, weapons development, and defense technology, shielding it from future congressional oversight. What does that mean for American sovereignty? For human rights accountability? And who actually wrote this provision?

Khanna also weighs in on the Epstein files and the rare bipartisan push to force transparency on what our government has been hiding.

This is the conversation Washington doesn't want you having. Listen, share, and make some noise.

What We're Talking About...

• Section 224 of the NDAA and its implications
• US-Israel military partnership and sovereignty
• The Epstein files and political transparency

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of Section 224

07:13 The Disconnect Between Congress and the American People

Links

Ro Khanna's Official Website - https://khanna.house.gov/

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Section 224 - https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/4350/text

In this episode of Beyond the Campaign, Mississippi District Attorney Scott Colom shares his remarkable journey from his childhood in Mississippi to launching his campaign for the U.S. Senate. Scott discusses his experiences in public service, his approach to criminal justice reform, and the values that have shaped his leadership style. He also offers insight into the challenges of running for office, the importance of community engagement, and why authentic, people-centered leadership matters in today's political landscape. This conversation provides a compelling look at Mississippi politics, public service, and the future of leadership in America.

What We're Talking About...

• Scott Colom's personal background, leadership journey, and motivation for running for U.S. Senate
• The economic impact of tariffs on Mississippi businesses, workers, and local communities
• Insights from Scott Colom's experience in the judicial system and his approach to criminal justice reform
• Why community engagement and grassroots organizing are essential to effective political leadership
• The influence of family, personal values, and public service on Scott Colom's campaign
• Challenges facing Mississippi voters and opportunities for economic growth and development
• Building trust, accountability, and authentic leadership in modern politics
• The intersection of public service, policy, and community advocacy
• Key issues shaping Mississippi's political landscape and future elections
• Lessons on leadership, civic engagement, and serving diverse communities through public office

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Mississippi's Rich Culture

04:02 Scott Colom's Political Journey and Senate Run

06:58 The Impact of Tariffs on Mississippi's Economy

12:59 Personal Background and Family Influence

19:05 The Role of a District Attorney and Criminal Justice Reform

25:00 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

Links Mentioned

Scott Colom's campaign website: https://scottcolom.com

In this bonus episode of Beyond The Campaign, Rusty Hicks, chair of the California Democratic Party, discusses the current political landscape in California as election day unfolds. He emphasizes the importance of voter engagement and the strategies the party is employing to ensure a Democratic candidate advances in the gubernatorial race. The conversation also touches on the challenges ahead for the Democratic Party as they prepare for the midterms, highlighting the need for continued effort and focus on key issues.

What We're Talking About...

• Rusty Hicks is the chair of the California Democratic Party.
• Election day is crucial for voter engagement.
• The California Democratic Party aims to send a strong Democrat to the general election.
• Concerns about low early ballot counts exist, but primary voters will make their voices heard.
• The party is focused on winning additional congressional seats in the midterms.
• Proposition 50 provides an opportunity to gain more seats, but action is needed to secure them.
• The work of political engagement is ongoing and requires lifelong commitment.
• Voter turnout models differ between primaries and general elections.
• The next election cycle begins immediately after the previous one ends.
• Good trouble is necessary for progress in politics.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Election Day Overview

03:12 California Democratic Party's Strategy and Voter Engagement

05:55 Looking Ahead: Midterms and Future Challenges

Links

California Democratic Party

In this episode of Beyond the Campaign, host Michelle Glogovac sits down with political content creator and small business owner Sara Wiles to discuss activism, political engagement, and the realities of speaking out in today’s political climate. Sara shares her journey into political advocacy, the risks and challenges of using social media for activism, and how community support fuels meaningful change.

Michelle and Sara dive into important conversations about democracy, political burnout, grassroots organizing, the influence of money in politics, and the future of civic engagement. This thought-provoking episode explores the intersection of entrepreneurship, advocacy, and digital activism while highlighting the importance of staying informed, involved, and hopeful during uncertain times.

What We're Talking About...

• Sara Wiles’s journey from small business owner to political activist and content creator
• The risks and rewards of speaking out about politics on social media
• How activism, advocacy, and civic engagement impact modern democracy
• Strategies for avoiding burnout and maintaining hope in political movements
• The influence of money in politics, campaign funding, and Citizens United
• The role of community support in grassroots organizing and resistance movements
• Navigating political conversations as an entrepreneur and public voice
• The future of democracy and the importance of everyday activism
• Building online communities focused on political education and change
• Staying motivated during challenging political and social climates

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sara Wiles

00:53 Sara Wiles’s Background and Motivation

01:59 Balancing Business and Political Activism

04:53 The Importance of Using Your Voice

08:16 Managing Personal Well-Being and Burnout

18:50 Why We Are the Right People for Change

33:35 Changing Perspectives on Money and Politics

37:13 Handling Criticism and Online Negativity

38:30 The Power of Kindness and Community Support

40:52 Where to Find and Support Sara Wiles

Links Mentioned

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sara_wiles/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sararebeccawiles

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sara_wiles

Substack: https://substack.com/@sarawiles