Mark Becker and Vice President at the Niskanen Center, Geoff Kabaservice, dive into the tumultuous global arena, spotlighting Iran's geopolitical tensions and the U.S.'s waning influence. They dissect Trump's incendiary rhetoric and its potential to ignite regional conflicts, while highlighting China's strategic rise as a global power.

The episode critiques America's fracturing alliances, with China seizing the opportunity to position itself as a stabilizing force. Domestically, the focus shifts to Wisconsin's political landscape, heralding Chris Taylor's victory over extremism. However, Mark warns of complacency, emphasizing the need for unity and vigilance against partisan polarization to reclaim America's global stature.

Mark Becker and Green Bay Rep. Amaad Rivera-Wagner to give a recap of the 2026 legislative session...yes, it's already over.

Wagner recounts personal threats faced from election conspiracy theorists and advocates for a Supreme Court protective of constitutional rights. Despite legislative challenges, he celebrates two bipartisan bills: one inspired by Habitat for Humanity to make homeownership accessible and another removing barriers for DACA recipients seeking professional licenses.

Mark and Amaad also discuss the No Kings protest, and how to turn it into action. They discuss coming together for the good of the people over political expediency. Don't miss this one!

Returning favorite Carlton Huffman joins the show to talk about the Iran War, Kristi Noem firing, and how the Republican Party of Wisconsin went from National juggernaut to it's current weakened state.

Mark then shares a deeply personal story of how abuse can impact lives and how important it is to know your rights.

State Senator Kelda Roys joins the show to talk about her campaign for Governor. She talks about the responsibilities of the job, why experience matters, and how she will improve the lives of Wisconsinites if she's elected.

They also get into a spirited discussion about the recent ICE activity and how it is unlawful, as well as how Wisconsin's backwards laws regarding women's health need to change. 

National news contributor Madeline Summerville from Maddie's Hot Take joins the show for a wide ranging discussion on the issues of the day.

Being a jury consultant, Maddie breaks down the psychology behind the messaging used by President Trump and Republicans. They talk about why it's so important to not be divided and how we can hold truth center in our political decisions. 

Don't miss this episode!!

State Senator Kristin Dassler-Alfheim joins the show this week to talk about silly season, the need to work together, and why it's important the Democrats not behave like the Republicans have since 2011 if they gain power.

Mark then shares the story of how he met Kristin, and how even a small nugget of kindness can stay with someone for years to come.

This week Mark sits down with the founder of the award winning Recombobulation Area, and Civic Media's own Dan Shafer! Mark and Dan cover everything from the Buck's star staying in Milwaukee to tony Evers' final state of the state address. They also talk in depth and try to answer the question "Is Wisconsin truly a purple state?" Dan also talks about the candidate forum he hosted with the top seven democratic candidates for Governor.

Mark then gives his thoughts about the Bad Bunny Super Bowl halftime performance, and how it was more patriotic than TPUSA's "All-American Halftime Show."

Nick Truog, Chairman of the Wisconsin Democratic Party's Black Caucus joins the show to talk about the important topic of OUTREACH!

Nick answers the questions of why it was reported that young Black voters voted for Trump, what can be done to reach out to voters of color, and he talks about how Black issues are American issues.

Mark then talks about how conservative talk radio gives the permission structure for people to hold positions that hurt others. 

Former Lieutenant Governor and current candidate for the Wisconsin governor race, Mandela Barnes, stops by for a hard-hitting conversation about what’s unfolding in Minnesota, while Mark lays out what he believes really matters in the next Governor of Wisconsin.

Mark also speaks candidly about the killing of Alex Pretti and reflects on how profoundly the world feels changed since last week’s show. Urgent, emotional, and impossible to ignore. This is a can't miss!

In an emotional episode you won't want to miss, former journalist Pauleen Le talks about living in Minneapolis during ICE raids, and the heart ache she went through making the decision to carry her passport, despite being a US citizen.

Pauleen talks about her work at Project for Pride in Living in Minneapolis, and how the community she serves is impacted by the uncertainty of the constant ICE presence. 

Part of our conversation touched on something personal I recently shared on Facebook: that I’ve started carrying my passport with me. It’s a feeling many in communities across the Twin Cities and beyond understand far too well, and it’s one of the reasons these conversations matter.

Mark then talks about the argument that Donald Trump was not to blame for January 6th because the Capitol Police was "not prepared." Don't miss this one!