The Vital Role of Dental Health: A Conversation with Dr. Wenzel Carter

Halloween may be spooky, but retired dentist Dr. Wenzell Carter says the real scare is what happens if healthcare cuts move forward.

In this episode of Democracy Does the Civic Power Playbook, host Robin Hamilton discusses the critical importance of dental health with  Dr. Carter. They explore Dr. Carter's career journey, the challenges faced by lower-income populations in accessing dental care, and the dire consequences of recent legislative cuts to Medicaid and Medicare. Dr. Carter also provides practical tips for maintaining dental health and emphasizes the need for accurate information in public health policies.

In this episode, Robin Hamilton interviews Glen, Lynne, and Joe White to discuss the impact of recent Medicaid cuts on individuals reliant on public benefits. Glen, a retired RN, shares the difficulties faced by his fiancé, Lynne, who suffers from epilepsy and relies heavily on Medicaid for her expensive treatment. Joe White, an organizer for Affordable Virginia, highlights the broader implications of these policies on military families and working families, and emphasizes the importance of community involvement and empowerment through storytelling.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. David Schein—bestselling author, professor, and political management expert—as we dive into the challenges facing American democracy today. Dr. Schein discusses the impact of term limits, the disconnect between politicians and the public, the influence of lobbyists, and the importance of civic engagement. We also explore the role of education, the need for government accountability, and practical steps for citizens to stay empowered and involved.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Rochelle Kishcart, a former Navy member turned federal worker, as she shares her journey and the vital role of empathic listening in community activism. Rochelle explains how her experiences in the military and public service shaped her understanding of empathy, and why truly listening to others is essential for anyone seeking to make a positive impact

In this episode of Democracy Does: The Civic Power Playbook, host Robin Hamilton interviews Jeff Rasley, a lawyer, author, and philanthropist. They discuss the importance of being environmentally responsible, politically active, and how to make an impact on community development.

In this powerful conversation, Angel Pye, a union leader for caregivers, shares her first-hand experience of the sacrifices required to care for her son on limited Medicaid benefits.

This week on Democracy Does, I sat down with Amanda Pittman, Communications Director for Affordable Virginia, to talk about why staying informed on federal policy is critical—and how decisions made in Washington, D.C. are already being felt in Virginia communities.

In this conversation,  Amanda reminds us, “Feeding kids and caring for seniors shouldn’t be political. These are values we all share.”

In this edition of 'Democracy Does the Civic Power Playbook,' host Robin Hamilton travels to Virginia Beach to explore how federal policies impact local communities. Featuring an in-depth discussion with former Maryland Governor and ex-Social Security Commissioner Martin O'Malley, this episode focuses on the alarming state of the Social Security Administration.

In this powerful episode of Democracy Does: The Civic Power Playbook, we sit down with Frederic Riccardi, President of the Medicare Rights Center, to break down how recent changes in federal legislation could affect millions of older adults and people with disabilities — and what you can do to protect yourself or someone you love.

Chasity Wells Armstrong, a former mayor turned coach, shares her journey from social work to city hall, and how serving her hometown of Kankakee, Illinois, shaped her understanding of power, politics, and purpose. She reminds us that systems, while imperfect, matter — and that they’re only as strong as the people who show up to shape them.