In this episode of The Georgia Politics Podcast, host Craig Kidd is joined by political insiders Jason Shepherd and Eamon Keegan to break down two major announcements shaking up Georgia's 2026 Senate landscape.

Governor Brian Kemp and U.S. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene have both confirmed they will not be running for U.S. Senate—what does that mean for the GOP field? We explore the motivations behind their decisions, the political calculations at play, and the likely contenders who may now step into the spotlight.

Will a new face emerge, or is a familiar name preparing to make a move? Tune in for sharp analysis, behind-the-scenes insights, and a look at how this could reshape Georgia's political future.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

Happy VE Day! In this thought-provoking episode of The Georgia Politics Podcast, we discuss why D-Day commands national remembrance, while VE Day—the end of the war in Europe—often passes with little fanfare.

We explore the cultural, political, and media factors that have shaped America's collective memory of World War II. Tune in for a wide-ranging discussion that blends history, civic identity, and the politics of remembrance.

Miss our episode about D-Day? You can listen to it on Spotify here, Apple here, or the Web here.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

In this episode, we delve into one of the most secretive and fascinating traditions in the world: the selection of a new pope.

Following the death of Pope Francis, the eyes of the world once again turn to the Vatican as the Catholic Church prepares to choose its next spiritual leader.

We explore the centuries-old rituals of the papal conclave, the critical role of the College of Cardinals, and the delicate balance of politics, theology, and global influence that shapes the election of the next Bishop of Rome. 

Whether you're a devout Catholic or simply intrigued by the inner workings of global religious leadership, this episode offers a rare inside look at a process that has shaped history for over two millennia.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

Welcome to The Georgia Politics Podcast! On today’s episode we are joined by Director George Hirthler to discuss his new documentary on the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta.

The Games in Black and White is a documentary that tells the untold story of the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, focusing on the powerful and enduring friendship between Ambassador Andrew Young and Olympic CEO Billy Payne.

Described as one of the most successful Black-White partnerships in the American South during the civil rights era, their collaboration helped secure and shape the Centennial Olympic Games. Through interviews and archival footage, the documentary explores how the duo used the Games not only to transform Atlanta but also to promote social justice and global humanitarian efforts, making it much more than a sporting event.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

Welcome to The Georgia Politics Podcast! In Part 5 of our 1975 retrospective series, we turn our focus to the Fall of Saigon—a pivotal moment in world history.

The Fall of Saigon was a pivotal moment that brought the Vietnam War to a dramatic close and forever changed the course of history. Our guest, Colonel Albion Bergstrom (U.S. Army, Retired), brings a deeply personal and professional perspective to that chaotic spring of 1975. A veteran of the Vietnam War, Colonel Bergstrom shares his insights into the final days of the American presence in Saigon, the frantic evacuation, and the long shadows that moment cast on U.S. foreign policy, military strategy, and the lives of thousands of Vietnamese allies left behind.

Colonel Bergstrom walks us through the atmosphere of the U.S. embassy, the sounds of the last helicopters lifting off, and the emotions felt by soldiers and civilians alike. Whether you're a student of history or someone seeking to understand how past conflicts continue to shape the present, this episode offers a compelling, human look at one of the most significant chapters in American military history.

Listen in as we remember, reflect, and reckon with the legacy of the Fall of Saigon — fifty years later.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

In this special episode, The Georgia Politics Podcast welcomes Chris Escobar, Executive Director of the Atlanta Film Society, and Jon Kieran, Programming Director of the Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF), to discuss the upcoming 49th annual Atlanta Film Festival, running from April 24 to May 4, 2025.

With over 6,000 submissions narrowed down to 132 official selections, including 24 world premieres, this year's festival promises a diverse lineup of films. Escobar and Kieran delve into the selection process, the significance of showcasing local talent—with more than 30 films from Georgia-based creators—and the festival's role in shaping the future of storytelling.

Listeners will also gain insights into the Creative Conference, ATLFF's educational extension, offering 46 unique events aimed at filmmakers, performers, and film enthusiasts. The discussion highlights how the festival not only celebrates cinematic art but also contributes to Georgia's cultural and economic landscape.​

Tune in to discover how the Atlanta Film Festival continues to be a cornerstone of Georgia's vibrant film industry.​

Learn more about the Atlanta Film Festival

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

In the latest episode of The Georgia Politics Podcast, Rep. Scott Hilton (R–Peachtree Corners) joins the show to break down the whirlwind final day of the 2025 Georgia legislative session.

We delve into the key bills that made it to Governor Kemp’s desk. Rep. Hilton offers insights into the legislative strategies and political dynamics that shaped these outcomes. We also discuss the dramatic walkout by Democratic legislators in protest of certain bills and the implications for future sessions.

Tune in for an in-depth analysis of Georgia's legislative process and the key issues that will impact the state's future.

Connect with Rep. Scott Hilton on Twitter @ScottHiltonGA

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

Welcome to The Georgia Politics Podcast and Part 4 of our series on the 50th anniversary of 1975. On today’s episode we are headed to New Mexico where two young programmers announce their upstart new company – Microsoft.

When Bill Gates and Paul Allen launched a small software company in Albuquerque, they had no idea they were igniting a revolution that would reshape not just technology—but economics, education, and even politics.

We unpack how the founding of Microsoft reflected a broader shift in American innovation and ambition during the mid-70s. How did a startup on the edge of the desert signal a shift in power—from Washington and Wall Street to Silicon Valley and the world of code?

Join us as we connect the dots in a story of software, vision, and seismic change.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

Welcome to The Georgia Politics Podcast! In this episode representatives from Henry, Fulton, Cobb, and Gwinnett counties join the show to explore whether local party structures still hold influence in shaping elections, mobilizing voters, and driving policy.

Are county parties a relic of the past, or do they remain a crucial force in grassroots politics? How do they navigate challenges like shifting demographics, political polarization, and the rise of digital campaigning? Our guests offer their perspectives on the future of county GOP organizations in Georgia and beyond.

Tune in for a lively and insightful conversation about the state of local political engagement and what it means for our political futures.

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol

Welcome to The Georgia Politics Podcast! In this special Women’s History Month edition, our all-women panel takes the mic to celebrate the trailblazing women who have shaped politics—both in Georgia and beyond.

Each panelist shares the stories of the women who inspire them, from historical icons to contemporary leaders, and discusses their lasting impact on policy, representation, and the future of politics. Tune in for a lively and insightful conversation honoring the women who’ve paved the way and those who continue to break barriers today.

Listen to The State of Feminism, Part 1

Listen to The State of Feminism, Part 2

Connect with The Georgia Politics Podcast on Twitter @gapoliticspod

Hans Appen on Twitter @hansappen

Craig Kidd on Twitter @CraigKidd1

Proud member of the Appen Podcast Network.

#gapol