Rational Revolution

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!

Welcome to the second hour of the Civic Media Spotlight! John & Gordy talks with Steve from Minneapolis, a lifelong resident offering a firsthand perspective on what it’s like to live amid ongoing ICE raids. He shares what he’s seeing in his community and how these actions are affecting everyday life.

The conversation with Steve from Minneapolis continues as he goes deeper into the emotional and social impact of the raids. JAG gives him space to expand on what this moment feels like for neighbors, families, and the city as a whole.

On Nite Lite, Pete Schwaba sits down with comedians Rob Brackenridge and Mike Merryfield to talk shop about their careers in comedy. They discuss Rob’s “Open Bar” special, Mike’s experience opening for Rob Schneider, and how the comedy scene has evolved over the years.

The laughs and insights keep coming as Schwaba continues his conversation with Rob Brackenridge and Mike Merryfield. The trio reflects on past gigs, current challenges in the comedy industry, and what keeps them going in a constantly changing entertainment landscape.

To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!

Welcome to the Civic Media Spotlight! We kick off with the Matenaer on Air show with Greg Bach. Kyle Clower, executive director of Serve Wisconsin, joins the conversation to break down the impact of AmeriCorps across the state. He talks about how these programs work, why service matters, and the many volunteer opportunities available for Wisconsinites looking to get involved.

Milwaukee-based singer-songwriter Trapper Schoepp sits down with Teri Barr for Max Ink Radio to talk about turning real-life stories into songs. The conversation weaves through surprising connections between Wisconsin, Elvis, and Bob Dylan, and dives into how Trapper crafted these unique, story-driven tracks.

Lucas Molloy, one of the organizers behind the Wisconsin Beer and Cheese Fest, stops by to preview the event on Civic Media Mornings. He shares what attendees can expect from the brewers and cheesemakers, some impressive cheese-related stats, and even schools Jamie on the fine art of pretzel necklaces.

Chad Holmes talks with Mandela Barnes, one of the Democratic candidates for governor. The discussion covers Barnes’ background, priorities, and his vision for Wisconsin as the race continues to take shape.

To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!

Former Republican Congressman and national pundit Joe Walsh stops by and talks about the current state of the country.

Joe shares his thoughts on why he believes the Trump administration is going to suspend the midterm elections, and talks about how it’s not as far-fetched as people may believe. 

Mark then talks about why Democrats need to be more organized and on-message as we approach the November elections.

We move on to the second hour of the Civic Media Spotlight! First up is Afternoons with John & Gordy! Jim Santelle joins John and Gordy to discuss the concept of so-called federal immunity for ICE agents. Santelle provides legal context and explains how immunity claims are evaluated. The conversation centers on accountability and the limits of federal protection.

John and Gordy continue their in-depth interview with Amicus host Jim Santelle. The discussion focuses on the recent ICE shootings in Minneapolis and their legal ramifications. Santelle breaks down what the public should understand about the investigation and legal process.

After that, Pete from Nite Lite interviews Doctors in Recital about their upcoming charity event showcasing a wide range of musical talent. The group shares how music and medicine intersect through their mission-driven performances. The segment concludes with a soulful rendition of Feels Like Home by Kim Shefchik and Paul Peot.

Pete continues his conversation with Doctors in Recital, diving deeper into their charity events and community impact. The group discusses how their performances support meaningful causes and bring people together. This segment expands on their mission and future plans.

To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!

Hello and welcome to the Civic Media Spotlight! To kick us off, we have Civic Media Mornings with Jamie Martinson and Brian Noonan! Minneapolis radio host, John Parker from AM950 KTNF joins the show to report on and analyze the recent ICE shooting. He provides local insight into the incident and its broader implications for the community. The discussion focuses on accountability, public response, and the role of federal agencies.

Up next, the WXCO Morning Report with Chad Holmes speaks with Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. Crowley discusses current county issues and ongoing initiatives impacting Milwaukee residents. The conversation highlights leadership priorities and local governance challenges.

We move onto BustED Pencils where John Lupinacci, Tim Slekar, and Producer Jakob break down what emergency teaching licenses are and when they are meant to be used. They explain why these licenses were created and the circumstances where they may or may not be appropriate. The segment examines the growing reliance on emergency licenses and the problems caused by their overuse.

To end the first hour of the Civic Media Spotlight, Greg Bach and Calvin preview the Matenaer on Air show. They introduce a long-running and fan-favorite segment titled This Shouldn’t Be A Thing. The discussion sets the tone for the humor and commentary that defines the segment!

To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!

Welcome to the second hour of the Civic Media! Pat Krietlow talkss with Congressman Mark Pocan doesn’t hold back as he discusses Republicans voting on legislation they appeared not to understand. He also shares what he saw during a recent visit to an ICE detention center in Dodge County, raising alarms about detainees being held without transparency or due process.

Greg Bach and Calvin take on the New Year itself, questioning why certain traditions exist and whether they deserve to continue. Their conversation highlights the strange things society accepts simply because “that’s how it’s always been.”

Pete Schwaba and Todd Michaels wrap things up with an easygoing, nostalgic chat on Nite Lite. They swap stories about Oshkosh eateries and teenage memories, mixing food, laughter, and a prom-night calzone into a classic late-night radio moment.

To learn more about these shows and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, BlueSky, YouTube, X, and Instagram to keep up with Civic Media!