In Cobb We Trust

In this episode, Heather Tolley-Bauer joins us for a detailed breakdown of the events surrounding John Christadora — the lawsuit, the allegations, the pattern of misconduct, and why this case matters for local government and public trust.

This episode digs into the questions voters are asking about accountability, ethics, financial oversight, and who should be trusted with county funds.

If you’ve been looking for clear, factual context about this controversy and what it reveals about leadership and transparency in our county, this conversation is essential.

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Strickland, a doctor of social work, for a deep dive into what socialism actually looks like in the U.S. today, far beyond the stereotypes and political buzzwords.Together, we unpack Democratic Socialists of America (DSA): what the organization stands for, who it’s built to support, and why it matters in a moment defined by inequality. We talk about bootstraps culture, how it shapes our expectations of one another, and the real-world examples of socialism we interact with every day without even naming them.Chris also breaks down the often-overlooked intersection of race, class, and power within the socialist movement itself, and how oppression can show up even in spaces meant to challenge the status quo. In that context, we talk about the role of AfroSoc, DSA’s caucus for Black, Indigenous, and other people of color, which works to build a truly multiracial working-class base and elevate non-white leadership and community voices within the movement. We explore the differences between capitalism and socialism, unpack the “us vs. them” narratives that keep people divided, and discuss what all of this means for our role as organizers, neighbors, and activists working toward a more just future.If you’ve ever wondered what socialism in America truly looks like and what it means for our political future, this conversation is for you.

Interviewing Heather Tolley-Bauer

In this episode, Heather Tolley-Bauer of Watching the Funds Cobb helps us decode the district budget, explore how funds are allocated, and discuss why taxpayers should care. (In Cobb, 62% of property taxes go directly to the school district)

In this episode, we talk with Royce Mann, candidate for the Atlanta Board of Education, about the role education plays in building stronger, more equitable communities. He reflects on what led him to run and how he hopes to support students, teachers, and families across the city. Together, we talk about opportunity, access, and what it takes to create a school system where every student can thrive, from improving transparency and communication to making sure every classroom has the resources it needs to succeed. It’s a reminder that the challenges we face in our schools are deeply personal, and that empathy and action must go hand in hand.

In this episode, we sit down with Anthony McCalla, candidate for Marietta City Council Ward 1, to talk about what it means to serve a growing and diverse community. Anthony shares what inspired him to run and how he hopes to tackle challenges like housing affordability, public safety, and the rising cost of city services. Together, we explore what leadership looks like at the local level — and how real progress begins by listening to, and responding to, the people most affected.

In this episode, we sit down with Nora Gaudet, a candidate for Marietta City Council Ward 3, to talk about what it means to build community and lead with empathy. From her experiences in education and public service to her hopes for the city’s future, Nora shares how small, consistent efforts can create lasting change.

In this episode, we sit down with Akbar Ali, a candidate running to represent his community and reimagine what leadership can look like in Georgia. From his roots in public service to his drive to make government work for everyday people, Akbar shares the experiences and values that shape his vision for a more equitable and inclusive state.

We talk about what inspired him to run, the lessons learned along the way, and why listening to the people most affected by policy is the first step toward real change.

Tune in for a conversation about community, compassion, and the power of everyday people to build a better future together.

In this episode, we sit down with Christina Rogers, candidate for Marietta School Board, Ward 6, to talk about what true care and representation look like in our schools.

Christina shares her vision for a district that truly reflects its students — where representation matters, book bans have no place, and every child feels seen, heard, and safe.

Drawing from her years of experience serving others as an ICU nurse, she believes education should nurture curiosity, confidence, and the freedom to experience life to the fullest.

Tune in to hear how Christina is working to ensure every student in Marietta can thrive in and beyond the classroom.

Dr. Parin Chheda and the ICWT team welcome Peter Hubbard, candidate for Georgia’s Public Service Commission.

In this episode, Dr. Chheda and Hubbard dive into what the PSC actually does, why it matters for families and businesses across the state, and how decisions on energy, utilities, and infrastructure shape daily life in Cobb County and beyond. Hubbard shares his vision, priorities, and what sets him apart in this critical race.
If you care about fair energy rates, a reliable power grid, and the future of Georgia’s utilities, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

We are so excited and honored to interview Governor of GA candidate Ruwa Romman!

From her first job at the Center for Civil and Human Rights to more than ten years of organizing, she’s seen how change is built piece by piece. We talk about lessons learned in office, the importance of representing all constituents, and what it really takes to keep moving public opinion.

She reflects on the realities of pushing for change in the face of resistance, why persistence matters, and the everyday power of calling your state representative. Nothing is inevitable. Progress is possible if we keep at it.