Civic Media Spotlight

Civic Media Spotlight

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Civic Media Spotlight episodes

  • Shadow Docket Showdown: Immigration Chaos and Trump’s Judicial Moves

    Maggie and Jim Santelle delve into the turbulent state of U.S. politics during a particularly chaotic week under the Trump administration. They examine the Supreme Court’s use of the shadow docket to permit Trump’s revocation of immigration parole for nearly a million people — a move that raises serious concerns about due process and judicial transparency. The conversation also explores the growing concentration of executive power, including Trump’s ability to fire officials from supposedly independent federal boards and his use of controversial pardons that sidestep traditional review processes. Maggie and Jim unpack the broader implications of these developments for democracy, institutional integrity, and government accountability.

    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
    43 min
  • Rojo’s Rants and Trump’s Ukraine Conundrum

    In this hour, Maggie takes aim at Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson’s dangerous disinformation—from his anti-vaccine rhetoric to his open contempt for peer-reviewed science. While Johnson spins conspiracy theories and stumbles on basic economic and public health facts, University of Wisconsin-Madison political science professor Dr. Yoshiko Herrera brings some foreign policy clarity. She breaks down the geopolitics of the Russia-Ukraine war, Trump’s incoherent stance, and the real-world stakes of continued U.S. support. This hour has it all--political recklessness wrapped in global consequence.
    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: Prof. Yoshiko Herrera
    42 min
  • Tips, Tricks, and the Big Beautiful Bill

    Maggie and Chef Gregory Leon, Owner of Amilinda, start today's show with takedown of Trump’s “No Tax on Tips” proposal cuts through the spin to expose what’s really at stake. Policy expert Lily Roberts from Center For American Progress, also unpacks how the plan dangles a temporary, tiny break for tipped workers—while keeping payroll taxes intact and ignoring the majority of low-wage earners. Behind the flashy promise lies a harsh reality: permanent cuts to SNAP, Medicaid, and other vital safety nets. Maggie digs deep into the broken, exploitative tipping system and demands a shift toward real economic justice—starting with a livable wage and honest policy that serves workers, not headlines.

    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: Chef Gregory Leon, Lily Roberts
    42 min
  • Trump’s Tariff Terror and the Small Business Squeeze

    Maggie unpacks the chaos unleashed by "Trump’s Tariff Terror.” She’s joined by Michael Negron, former special assistant to President Biden, to explore how this economic whiplash is paralyzing small businesses—making it nearly impossible for them to plan, invest, or survive. With 68 million Americans employed by small businesses, the stakes are high. Maggie and Michael connect the dots between economic instability, rising consumer prices, and a worsening squeeze on entrepreneurs. They also take aim at the “big brutal bill” for failing to extend ACA tax credits, leaving small business owners and their employees even more vulnerable.

    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: Michael Negron
    43 min
  • The Big Brutal Bill Breakdown

    Maggie exposes the stark consequences of a controversial House bill proposing deep cuts to SNAP benefits—cuts that could strip school lunches from over 18 million children and worsen hunger nationwide. Joined by Bobby Kogan of the Center for American Progress, they unpack how this legislation offloads costs onto states like Wisconsin, burdens taxpayers, and disguises harm under the banner of "fraud prevention." Plus, Dr. Kristin Lyerly and Laura Benjamin (3rd Congressional District candidate) urge a call to action—urging all of us to fight back against policies that favor the wealthy at the expense of working families.

    Get more on Laura's campaign here: https://www.laurabenjaminforcongress.com/

    " rel="noopener noreferrer">https://bsky.app/profile/laura.direct
    Let your representatives know how you feel about cuts in the "Big Brutal Bill":

    Sen. Ron Johnson

    Washington DC: (202) 224-5323
    Milwaukee: (414) 276-7282
    Madison: (608) 240-9629
    Oshkosh: (920) 230-7250
    Rep. Bryan Steil
    Washington DC: (202) 225-3031
    Milwaukee County: (414) 285-2120
    Bristol District Office: (262) 654-1901
    Janesville District Office: (608) 752-4050
    Racine District Office: (262) 637-0510

    Rep. Derrick Van Orden

    Washington DC: (202) 225-5506
    LaCrosse District Office: (608) 782-2558
    Eau Claire District Office: (715) 831-9214
    Rep. Scott Fitzgerald
    Washington DC: (202) 225-5101
    Oconomowoc District Office: (262) 784-1111
    Rep. Glenn Grothman
    Washington DC:  (202) 225-2476
    Fond Du Lac Office: (920) 907-0624

    Rep. Tom Tiffany

    Washington DC: (202) 225-3365
    Wausau District Office:  (715) 298-9344

    Rep. Tony Wied

    Washington DC: (202) 225-5665
    DePere District Office: (920) 301-4500

    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, Bobby Kogan, Laura Benjamin
    42 min
  • Childcare Crisis and Economic Realities: Wisconsin’s Budget Battle

    In this hour, Maggie explores Wisconsin's escalating childcare crisis, where monthly costs can soar past $3,000. Joined by early education expert Daithi Wolfe from Kids Forward, the discussion sheds light on the devastating impact of proposed Republican budget cuts that threaten vital childcare subsidies. Wolfe emphasizes the economic ripple effect—particularly on working mothers—and the urgent need for sustained investment in early education. The conversation doesn’t shy away from criticizing GOP economic policies, branding them a “reverse Robin Hood” scheme that benefits the wealthy at the expense of working families. Stay tuned for upcoming events and expert insights that will keep this critical issue front and center.

    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: Daithi Wolfe
    43 min
  • Fusion Voting & the Fight for Political Choice

    In a compelling discussion on Wisconsin’s political future, Maggie and guest host Angela Lang, along with Jeff Mandell and John Franke, explore the transformative potential of fusion voting. This system allows multiple political parties to endorse the same candidate, offering voters more nuanced choices and potentially aligning elected officials more closely with the full spectrum of voter values. Jeff and John argue that fusion voting could disrupt the entrenched two-party system, invigorate democracy, and increase voter turnout. They also discuss the historical precedent for fusion voting in Wisconsin, the legal and constitutional basis for their lawsuit advocating its return, and the broader need for political reform amid increasing polarization. Fusion voting could be promising step toward a more representative and innovative political system.

    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: Jeff Mandell, Angela Lang, John Franke
    42 min
  • Memorial Day Rememberence

    In this hour, Maggie welcomes Commander Greg Palo and Al Labelle from Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Wisconsin to discuss their mission of supporting disabled veterans. They explore the often-complicated process of securing veterans’ benefits and how DAV helps bridge the gap through essential services and dedicated advocacy. Plus, Thomas Parr, Membership Director at the Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce, joins the conversation to highlight the importance of veteran-owned businesses—and how we can better support veterans in our 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: Al Labelle, Greg Palo, Thomas Parr
    45 min
  • Memorial Day Tributes

    We hope you're enjoying a relaxing Memorial Day weekend. Today, we honor those who have served our nation. Maggie begins today’s show by spotlighting the transformative work of Patriot K9s of Wisconsin, with Executive Director Lani Rethaber. This remarkable organization pairs service dogs with veterans facing PTSD and other mental health challenges. Later in the show, Allison McManus, Managing Director for National Security and International Policy at the Center for American Progress, joins Maggie to discuss how looming budget cuts could severely impact veterans and their access to essential services.

    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: Lani Rethaber, Allison McManus
    45 min
  • Constitutional Clashes and Memorial Day Musings

    Maggie tackles pressing constitutional concerns—from the Trump administration’s controversial use of the Alien Enemies Act to discussions around the potential suspension of habeas corpus. She also unpacks the legal challenges facing Newark Mayor Raz Baraka and Congresswoman LaMonica McIver, who is facing charges after protesting outside an ICE facility. Maggie also raises alarms about the politicization of national intelligence, calling out Tulsi Gabbard’s leadership as troubling. Plus, we balance out the heavy politics with 'Ask Maggie,' where Maggie shares her favorite dog-friendly activities and current book picks. If you have a pressing question for Maggie, email [email protected]. It all wraps up with a look at some of the Memorial Day events across Wisconsin, reinforcing the importance of remembering and honoring those who’ve served.

    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!

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About Civic Media Spotlight

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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…