In this episode of Politics is Personal, Leslie Herod and Cole Wist unpack the latest national political headlines and Colorado state news before hosting a detailed conversation with Denver District Attorney John Walsh.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Congressional Conduct & Accountability: Discussing recent allegations involving U.S. Representative Max Miller, how political parties handle candidate misconduct, and the standard expected of public leaders.
• Statewide Campaign Dynamics: Addressing recent campaign material targeting Phil Weiser and examining the impact of anti-Semitic tropes in political messaging.
• Voter Shifts & Democratic Primaries: Analyzing the factors influencing Black and working-class voters following recent primary results.
• Interview with Denver DA John Walsh:
  • The intersection of mental health, substance use, and criminal justice.
  • The operational impact of digital evidence and body-worn cameras on prosecution.
  • Approaches to tackling youth violence and community prevention programs.
• What’s Bugging Us: Guest contributor Max Haynes weighs in on why voter education and civic participation matter now more than ever.
• Civic Engagement & Personal Reflections: A discussion on youth involvement in politics, term limits, and a personal tribute to the late Monsignor Ken Leone.

Episode Links & Resources:

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• Leave a review and share your thoughts in the comment section!

In this Episode of Politics is Personal, Leslie and Cole talk all things IMAX 70mm unhoused camps under 1-25. They talk with Senator Jeff Bridges about the Treasurer race and if Victor Marx's Govener race was funded without any secrets. Tune in Sunday August 2 To find out more!

In this Episode of Politics is Personal, Leslie and Cole talk all things IMAX 70mm unhoused camps under 1-25. They talk with Senator Jeff Bridges about the Treasurer race and if Victor Marx's Govener race was funded without any secrets. Tune in Sunday August 2 To find out more!

Is the political summer heat getting to be a bit much? Hosts Leslie Herod and Cole Wist break down the wildest national headlines, local controversies, and critical issues shaping our world this week.

First, Leslie and Cole dissect Donald Trump’s late-night address, its claims of election interference, and the ongoing fallout over former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters. Then, they pivot to a stomach-churning food safety scandal: a massive multi-state parasite outbreak impacting our produce, and question how federal regulatory failures and corporate donor ties might be leaving consumers in the dark.

Finally, we’re joined by James Eklund, leading water rights attorney (Taft Law Firm) and former Director of the Colorado Water Conservation Board. James breaks down the high-stakes drama surrounding the Colorado River Compact. From the Continental Divide to Taiwan Semiconductor's massive water demands in Phoenix, James explains why Western water law impacts everyone, and why the clock is ticking on federal intervention.

Plus, stick around for our "What's Bugging Us" segment featuring Soul Food Scholar Adrian Miller dropping hot takes on barbecue sauce!

Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE!

"Politics is Personal, so keep talking!"

In this episode of Politics is Personal with Leslie & Cole, we talk about the Democratic Socialists of America, if they have a figure head of the party, and how voters are turning to Mamdani like Politicians. Graham Platner and all things Maine, and the Passing of Lindsey Graham.

In this episode of Politics is Personal with Leslie & Cole, we talk about the Democratic Socialists of America, if they have a figure head of the party, and how voters are turning to Mamdani like Politicians. Graham Platner and all things Maine, and the Passing of Lindsey Graham.

Is the current two-party system actually serving the American people? In this episode of Politics is Personal, Leslie  and Cole experiment with a new format: a "pitch" segment where they challenge each other with bold political ideas.

Cole kicks off the discussion by addressing the rising number of unaffiliated voters across Colorado and the nation. He pitches a significant overhaul to our election process: moving away from partisan primaries toward a more open, non-partisan ballot system. 

Leslie provides a thoughtful counter-perspective, debating the necessity of parties for accountability, the risks of "jungle primaries," and whether term limits might be a more effective path to fixing the disconnect between politicians and their constituents.

What do you think?

Is the party system working, or is it time for a change? We want to hear your take! Join the conversation on Instagram and let us know what issues you want us to tackle next. https://www.instagram.com/politicsispersonal/

Production Credits:
Hosts: Leslie Herod and Cole Wist
Directed & Edited by: Julie Jackson
Videographer: Hallie West
Produced by: Leslie Herod, Cole West, Ian Silveri, and Julie Jackson
Music by: JKK
Recorded at: Colorado Symphony Studio with Truce Media Collective 

To watch a video of this episode please visit https://youtu.be/W-5NInEduvs

In this episode of Politics is Personal with Leslie and Cole, special guest Marshal Zelinger talks about his experience in primary elections, whether Cole's predictions were correct, and if Colorado has a new face for the democratic primary. Then Leslie questions the safety of Denver's new Veo bikes, and 4th of July Firework Festivities.

This week on Politics is Personal, Leslie Herod and Cole Wist make their final predictions around the Colorado primaries, including what they think is going to happen with Diana DeGette and CD1. They commiserate the Bow Mar community where gates may be going on public streets, and welcome Yessica Holguin, the Executive Director of the Center for Community Wealth. Yessica, Leslie and Cole discuss socialism and capitalism, with Yessica pointing out that corporate socialism is a thing! Learn about community wealth and Yessica's stint in the Peace Corps in Nicaragua. 

The show wraps up with an insider "what's bugging me" section, with both hosts lamenting the craziness of the Reflecting Pool in D.C.

As always, Politics is Personal isn't about winning arguments. It's about having the conversations many people are having around their own dinner tables—with curiosity, respect, and a willingness to listen. 

This week on Politics is Personal, Leslie Herod and Cole Wist cover the Colorado primaries and speculate on the winners. They discuss Diana DeGette and whether she'll be able to hold on, as well as legislation around social media and minors.

To celebrate Father's Day, we'll hear from Leslie's Dad and Cole's Daughter, who share what's bugging them.

This episode's featured guest is Jason Crow, a veteran who represents Colorado's 6th Congressional District and has some friendly beef with Leslie (something about a desk among other things). Congressman Crow shares what's on his heart: everything from Afghanistan, Iran, China and Russia, to Anti Corruption and the pulse of the American people.

As always, Politics is Personal isn't about winning arguments. It's about having the conversations many people are having around their own dinner tables—with curiosity, respect, and a willingness to listen.