Rise & Resist

In this episode, we converse with Zane Gustafson, author of Polemic for Democracy, a book that explores much needed reform of the United States Constitution.

Zane shares insights on rethinking the constitution and the need for a multi-party system. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the writing process of his book, messages to different groups in America, reforms for the executive and judicial branches, outside influences on his analysis, and the potential impact of constitutional reforms.

Zane also discusses the challenges of cynicism, the need for systemic change, and the power of the people in addressing issues like climate change and healthcare. We end with a discussion on collaboration and Zane's upcoming projects.

Takeaways

• Protests are growing, Trump's briefings are concerning, media ecosystem is deteriorating, and constitutional reform is needed.
• The need for a multi-party system and the impact of gerrymandering on competitive voting. Constitutional reforms can address systemic issues and empower the people to bring about change.
• Cynicism can be a barrier to change, but action and collaboration are essential for progress.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Zane Gustafson and Constitutional Reform
• 28:52 Writing and Wrapping Up the Book
• 39:15 Outside Influences and International Examples
• 46:27 Empowering the People and Addressing Key Issues

In this episode, we converse with Robin McGehee of Together Across America (https://www.togetheracrossamerica.org/), a campaign that aims to bring Americans together across the nation.

We begin with a discussion on the state of democracy and the concerns about the current political climate. We then transition to a debate about the SAVE Act, followed by a discussion on the war in Iran.

We then transition to introducing Together Across America and its mission. Our conversation covers the journey of mobilizing a movement, branding and engaging the community, building and expanding the movement, an intersectional approach, the role of action as an antidote to despair, and we conclude with calls to action and a message of hope.

Takeaways

• State of democracy and concerns about the political climate
• Debate on the SAVE Act and its implications
• Mobilizing a movement through cultural shifts and civic engagement
• Action is the antidote to despair

Chapters

• 00:00 The State of Democracy
• 07:32 The War in Iran
• 21:08 Mobilizing a Movement
• 27:41 Activism Journey and Growth
• 33:00 Intersectional Approach

In this episode, we converse with Dana and Libby of Visibility Brigade (https://www.visibilitybrigade.com/), a campaign that supports hundreds of grassroots activist groups engaging in overpass bannering around the country.

We begin our discussion touching on the Texas primaries, James Talarico's victory, and the impact of grassroots funding and democratic interaction.

We then transition to speaking with Dana and Libby about the formation of the Visibility Brigade, the practice of overpass bantering, and the joy and therapy found in activism.

We also explore the impact of community in activism, highlighting the importance of connected and calm activists, the power of personal and communal engagement, and the history of bridge activism.

Finally, we delve into the crafting of impactful messages, the organic growth of ideas and messages, the spread of messages organically, the use of materials and innovation in activism, safety and liability in activism, and the process of starting a Visibility Brigade chapter.

Takeaways

• Community-driven activism
• Impact of grassroots movements Community-driven activism
• Creative expression in civil resistance

Chapters

• 00:00 The Power of Grassroots Activism
• 06:14 Overpass Bantering and Community Building
• 18:41 Building Bridges and Creating Community
• 25:04 The Continuity of Activism
• 38:49 Building Community through Activism

Visibility Brigade: https://www.visibilitybrigade.com
ResistTrump Campaign: https://www.resisttrump.us

In this episode, our co-hosts Nevin and Francesca converse with Stacie Freasier, Director of Development with Pace e Bene Nonviolence Service (https://paceebene.org/).

The conversation covers a range of topics including the Epstein files, Trump's approval rating, ICE activities, and nonviolent resistance. Stacie shares her insights on nonviolence, empathy, and the role of emotions in activism.

Takeaways

• Nonviolent resistance is a strategic and effective approach to social change.
• Empathy and self-compassion are essential components of nonviolent activism.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Resist Trump Campaign
• 06:00 Introduction to Stacie Freasier and Nonviolent Resistance
• 23:07 The Value of Emotions and Relationships in Activism
• 36:38 Practicing Nonviolence and Self-Compassion

Pace e Bene Nonviolence Service: https://paceebene.org/paceebene

Selma Center for Nonviolence, Truth, and Reconciliation: https://www.selmacenterfornonviolence.org/

ResistTrump Campaign: https://www.resisttrump.us/

In this episode, the Rise and Resist Podcast sits with Jimmy Flannigan, Former Austin City Council Member (https://www.jimmyflannigan.com/).

We begin with a news rundown and introduction, followed by a discussion on the power of local government, engaging with local officials, and the influence of local leaders in shaping public narrative.

We then shift to the shifting dynamics of resistance and drawing hope for the future.

Takeaways

• Local Politics and Resistance
• Shifting Dynamics of Resistance
• Hope for the Future

Chapters

• 00:00 News Rundown
• 08:49 Local Politics and Resistance
• 14:22 Engaging with Local Officials to Resist ICE
• 19:25 Influence of Local Leaders in Shaping Public Narrative
• 24:34 Shifting Dynamics of Resistance
• 30:20 Hope for the Future

The conversation begins with an introduction to Kevin Bell and the Free Information Group, followed by a discussion on the latest news in America, focusing on the impact of Trump's regulatory rollback on climate and a conversation about Epstein and ICE kidnapping. The discussion then transitions to an in-depth understanding of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), highlighting its universal applicability and bipartisan support. The conversation delves into the use of FOIA as a tool for uncovering government actions and promoting accountability and transparency. It explores the impact of FOIA on uncovering decision-making processes and government activities.

Takeaways

• FOIA is a cornerstone of small d democratic government
• FOIA has universal applicability and bipartisan support FOIA is a powerful tool for accountability and transparency
• FOIA can be used to uncover government actions and decision-making processes

Chapters

• 00:00 Understanding the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
• 23:11 Government Actions and Accountability

The podcast begins with an introduction to the Resist Trump Campaign and its mission to coach activists in nonviolent civil resistance. The conversation then shifts to the grassroots resistance efforts of Minnesota 5051 and the impact of resistance on daily life, highlighting the palpable atmosphere and community support. The episode concludes with calls to action and a special thanks to the guest.

Takeaways

• Nonviolent resistance
• Community support

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Mission
• 14:07 Impact of Resistance on Daily Life
• 22:07 Calls to Action and Conclusion

In this episode, the Rise and Resist Podcast sits with Mike Ignatowski, Organizer with ResistAustin (www.resistaustin.us).

During the episode, we examine the impact of the murder of Alex Pretti in Minnesota and its significance for the resistance movement.

The conversation delves into the importance of midterm elections, the firing of Greg Bovino, and the international response to ICE agents at the Winter Olympics.

Personal reflections on family history and the fight against authoritarianism are also highlighted.

Takeaways

• Impact of Minnesota events on the resistance movement
• Importance of midterm elections and political impact

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Rise and Resist Podcast
• 05:55 Minnesota Events and Their Impact on the Resistance Movement
• 11:45 Importance of Midterm Elections and Political Impact
• 20:05 ICE Agents at the Winter Olympics and International Response
• 25:38 Personal Reflections and Family History
• 31:18 Framing the National Debate and the Fight Against Authoritarianism

The podcast features Nevin Kamath and Matt Koesters discussing the Resist Trump Campaign and its efforts to promote nonviolent civil resistance. They explore the challenges to democracy, introduce guest Vanessa K from the #FoxTakedown activist campaign, discuss the impact of activism, and share insights on social media and community building. The conversation highlights the importance of hope and unity in the fight against authoritarianism.

Takeaways

• Nonviolent civil resistance
• Community building

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Resist Trump Campaign
• 06:01 Challenges to Democracy
• 19:35 Social Media and Content Creation
• 27:33 Reflection and Community Impact

ResistTrump Campaign Director Nevin Kamath and Fortify Democracy Founder and ResistTrump Pro-Bono Advisor Matt Koesters speak with Scott Peoples, the Executive Director of Veterans for Responsible Leadership.

Veterans for Responsible Leadership: https://www.vfrl.org/

Fortify Democracy: https://www.fortifydemocracy.com/
ResistTrump Campaign: https://www.resisttrump.us/