In this episode of Beyond Resistance, we sit down with Lisa McIntyre, candidate for Michigan State House (District 22), therapist, school board leader, mom of three, and all-around proof that local politics is where the real action happens. If you’re into progressive political podcasts, grassroots organizing, or conversations about how to actually win elections in swingy districts, this one’s for you.

Lisa shares how her background in mental health, public education, and crisis management shaped her leadership during the chaos of COVID and why those skills matter more than ever in state-level politics. We talk about building transformational (not transactional) relationships with voters, using data and empathy to make decisions, and why showing up—again and again—is the secret sauce of effective campaigning.

You’ll also hear what voters in Western Wayne County are really worried about right now (spoiler: affordability, schools, healthcare, and the future), how Democrats can grow a blue wave without alienating their neighbors, and why some political fights shouldn’t be partisan at all (clean water, special education, and basic human dignity, anyone?).

It’s smart, practical, occasionally funny, and rooted in the belief that democracy works best when normal people step up and lead. If you’re searching for podcasts that yap about Democratic politics and honest conversations about building power in red and purple communities, press play.

Bonus: tennis aspirations, swimming confessions, and proof that even political candidates hate the cold.

To learn more about Beyond Resistance and our Blueprint for Building Blue Power: beyondresistancepod.com

To check out Lisa's campaign (donate & volunteer please!): mcintyreformichigan.com

Subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform and donate to our mission of building blue power in red communities through Venmo (@beyondresistanceppod) and GoFundMe: gofundme.com/f/help-us-share-the-blueprint-for-blue-power