Civic Media Spotlight

Civic Media Spotlight

By Civic MediaNewsNews Commentary
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Civic Media Spotlight episodes

  • Corruption, Candidates, and Capital: Cutting Through the Chaos

    Maggie begins this hour by navigating the turbulent world of political corruption and the influence of wealth in Wisconsin politics. Spotlighting Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez’s courageous stand against baseless xenophobic attacks and unpacking the questionable loyalties of Congressman Derek Van Orden, the conversation digs deep into the state’s political climate. Joining Maggie is Morris Pearl, former BlackRock executive, who breaks down how the tax code favors the ultra-rich and why fair taxation is critical for economic justice (https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/07/25/trump-tax-law-rich-liberals/). Meanwhile, Lisa White, a passionate newcomer running for the 17th Senate District, shares her grassroots strategy to unite communities despite early party endorsements.

    The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show!

    Guests: Dr. Kristin Lyerly, Morris Pearl, Lisa White
    42 min
  • Unveiling the Epstein Files: The Unending Scandal

    Maggie confronts the enduring scandal of Jeffrey Epstein, exposing the systemic failures that allow sexual violence to persist and the political hypocrisy surrounding the case. Joined by Professor Mariel Barnes, the conversation explores the deep-rooted culture of misogyny, economic vulnerability of victims, and chronic underfunding of law enforcement and support systems. Barnes provides insight into how power and privilege shield perpetrators while silencing survivors. Maggie also scrutinizes Donald Trump’s shifting narratives and his resistance to releasing the Epstein files, underscoring growing public frustration.

    The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show!

    Guest: Mariel Barnes
    43 min
  • Unmasking Power: From Courts to Campaigns

    Maggie unpacks the legal and political chaos of the Trump administration, spotlighting its environmental rollbacks and a high-profile clash with Judge Boasberg. Former U.S. Attorney Jim Santelle contextualizes the ethics complaint filed against Boasberg as a direct assault on judicial independence. Later, Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez joins the show to officially announce her 2026 gubernatorial run. Drawing on her healthcare background and bipartisan credentials, Rodriguez outlines a platform focused on expanding healthcare access, addressing housing shortages, and supporting small businesses.

    The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show!

    Guests: Jim Santelle, Sara Rodriguez
    42 min
  • Glass Ceilings and C-Suites: Breaking Through the Barriers

    This hour, Maggie explores the persistent gender gap in leadership across politics and the corporate world. Joined by Lori Richards, CEO of Mueller Communications, the conversation unpacks the systemic hurdles women continue to face—from entrenched old boys’ networks to the lasting effects of the COVID-era “she-cession.” They challenge the slow pace of progress, examining how women’s appearances, perceptions of risk, and the myth of meritocracy still influence who rises to the top. Together, they call for intentional change: equitable hiring practices, genuine work-life support, and stronger male allyship. Maggie and Lori make a compelling case for why diverse, inclusive leadership isn’t just right—it’s smart business and better governance.

    The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show!

    Guest: Lori Richards
    42 min
  • Debunking Lies and Spotlighting Leadership

    In a fiery first hour, host Maggie Daun tackles political misinformation while unpacking the evolving landscape of Wisconsin’s gubernatorial race. With former Governor Scott Walker officially out, new contenders like Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley and Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez are stepping into the spotlight. Maggie sharply critiques GOP candidate Tom Tiffany’s misleading claims about Wisconsin’s standing, countering his rhetoric with hard facts and data. The discussion also dives into the Republican Party’s ongoing challenges with supporting female candidates and the broader need for inclusive, representative leadership. Special guests Matt Rothschild and Dan Schafer bring sharp analysis and insight into what the political future might hold for the state—and the nation.

    Fact Checking Tom Tiffany's Wisconsin Claims:

    https://opportunityindex.org/

    https://www.paidnice.com/states-economy-rankings-dashboard
    https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/quality-of-life-by-state
    The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show!

    Guests: Dan Shafer, Matt Rothschild
    43 min
  • Reviving Local News: From News Deserts to Storm Chasing

    Maggie tackles the crisis of news deserts, spotlighting the decline of local journalism and its dire effects on communities—lower wages, corruption, and misinformation. Chatting with Kory Hartman, VP at Civic Media, they explore the media’s mission to revive local news, combating consolidation and deserts with grassroots radio. Kory also shares his storm-chasing adventures, emphasizing weather’s role in local reporting. This Friday closes with a nod to Wisconsin's recycling pioneer, Millie Zantow, and a push for sustainable practices. It's about empowering communities through informed citizenship and the vital return of local journalism.

    The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show!

    Guest: Kory Hartman
    41 min
  • Kayfabe Politics and the Supreme Court’s Power Play

    In this Friday episode, Maggie is joined by former U.S. Attorney Jim Santelle to explore the concept of kayfabe in American politics—drawing striking parallels between Donald Trump's persona and the theatrics of professional wrestling. Together, they scrutinize recent Supreme Court decisions, calling out the Court’s unchecked power and deepening ideological tilt. Santelle highlights a controversial ruling allowing Trump to dismiss members of the Consumer Product Safety Commission who oppose unsafe imports, warning that it prioritizes corporate interests over public safety. Maggie and Jim call for smarter—not fewer—regulations and denounces the Supreme Court’s growing lack of ethics and transparency. A compelling critique of performative politics and the shifting balance of power in American governance.

    The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show!

    Guest: Jim Santelle
    41 min
  • Democracy’s Dilemma: Fixing the System from the Ground Up

    In this critical hour, Maggie is joined by Professor Michael Wagner and activist Christy McGillivray to confront the deep-rooted challenges threatening American democracy. From gerrymandering and dark money to expanding news deserts, the conversation exposes how structural imbalances and disinformation erode public trust and representation. The guests spotlight efforts like the National Popular Vote Compact, campaign finance transparency, and independent redistricting as essential reforms. With a strong focus on grassroots action and civic education, the episode is both a warning and a roadmap—underscoring that meaningful change starts with informed, engaged communities.

    The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show!

    Guests: Michael Wagner, Nick Ramos, Christy McGillivray
    42 min
  • Democracy on the Brink: Gerrymandering, Dark Money, and Crypto Corruption

    With Governor Evers officially announcing he won’t seek reelection, a political power vacuum emerges in Wisconsin. Maggie unpacks the high-stakes moment with expert guests, zeroing in on the urgent need for democracy reform. The conversation explores how partisan gerrymandering continues to distort fair representation, and why independent redistricting is essential. Attention then turns to the corrosive impact of dark money since Citizens United, with state-level solutions—like Arizona’s transparency laws—offering hope. But there’s a new threat on the horizon: cryptocurrency’s role in evading campaign finance laws. This hour wraps with a powerful call to ban congressional stock trading and root out systemic corruption at every level of government.

    The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show!

    Guests: Nick Ramos, TR Edwards, Elizabeth Shimek, Kedric Payne
    42 min
  • Political Rants and Legal Insights

    From political power plays to legal intricacies, this episode delves into the democratic underpinnings of elected seats, Medicare cuts, and the political theatrics of Ronald Reagan. Jim Santelle, former U.S. Attorney, dissects the firing of a U.S. Attorney and the blurred lines between politics and justice under Trump’s administration. The hosts tackle immigration policy, the U.S. Attorney’s Office chaos, and gerrymandering threats. Amid legal jargon, the conversation shifts to entertainment with Pete Schwaba discussing his show, Wisconsin's film industry, and personal anecdotes from the Chicago comedy scene.

    The Maggie Daun Show is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Monday through Friday from 2-4 pm across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the show on Facebook, X and Instagram to keep up with Maggie and the show!

    Guests: Jim Santelle, Pete Schwaba
    42 min

About Civic Media Spotlight

From the publisher's feed

Civic Media is a pro-democracy radio network serving local communities in Wisconsin. Hear a sample of our best programming from the past week from across our statewide network. Listen Live: 4:00 pm…