In this week's episode, host Ryan Coonerty speaks with Michigan State Senator Sarah Anthony. They talk about her achievements and her many ''firsts' in politics - including her path to becoming the first African American woman elected to the Michigan Senate and the first to Chair the Senate Appropriations Committee -- and the obstacles she has overcome along the way. Anthony explains how she is trying to improve equity and opportunity for all Michiganders and the challenges of leading the effort to shape what she calls the "people's budget." In addition, she offers insights into how the Trump Administration's efforts are impacting Michigan, especially in regards to tariffs, and talks about what her prior work as a County Commissioner taught her. Tune in to learn about her guiding principles and what gives her hope.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [01:04] Introducing today's guest, Senator Sarah Anthony.

• [02:23] Her journey into public office and what it's like to be 'the first' in so many areas.

• [04:52] The internal struggles she's faced in her position and how she overcomes them.

• [06:52] How Anthony has tried to make systems work for people better than they do.

• [08:51] Managing chairing appropriations and making the budget a 'people's budget'.

• [14:47] Anthony shares what things are like in Michigan politically at the moment.

• [18:06] How the tariffs are playing out in Michigan and how they're affecting people.

• [21:09] What motivated Sarah to run for the County Commission, and what it taught her.

• [24:42] Why she hasn't struggled to maintain her guiding principles during her time in office.

• [26:26] Prioritizing outcomes over going viral and what gives her hope for the future.