Host ⁠Reed Galen⁠⁠ is joined by Alexander Theodoridis, Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Co-Director of the UMass Poll, for an honest look at why trust in American politics and institutions is at an all-time low. They talk about what’s really driving voter dissatisfaction, the roots of polarization, and why approval ratings and party loyalty don’t mean what they used to.

Alex shares insights from his research on public opinion, hyper-polarization, and how Americans are reacting to an era of constant political gridlock. They break down the frustrations of voters who feel like neither party is offering real solutions, the rise of populism, and what happens when people feel the system just isn’t working for them. Plus, how material concerns shape political choices, why it’s so hard to break out of our bubbles, and whether either party can earn back the public’s trust.

For more from Alexander Theodoridis, keep an eye out for the latest UMass Polls and follow his research on public opinion, democracy, and polarization.

For more from Reed Galen subscribe to⁠⁠ The Home Front⁠⁠, check out⁠⁠ Sez Us⁠⁠ for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit⁠⁠ JoinTheUnion.us⁠⁠ and sign up today.

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Host ⁠Reed Galen⁠⁠ is joined by Sarah Stein Lubrano - writer, researcher, and author of Don’t Talk About Politics: How to Change 21st Century Minds for the second half of their conversation about why building real community is so challenging in the modern world. They discuss the rise of loneliness, the difference between weak ties and true friendships, and how social media has changed the way we connect and organize.

They also explore what “social atrophy” means for Americans’ personal lives and politics, why genuine in-person relationships matter more than ever, dig into the science behind deep canvassing, and the hard truth that strong communities require consistent effort. Plus, what the loss of social infrastructure means for democracy and why anyone can play a part in rebuilding it.

For more from Sarah Stein Lubrano, check out Don’t Talk About Politics: How to Change 21st Century Minds wherever books are sold, subscribe to My Subschtick, and follow her work with the Sense and Solidarity Initiative, The Future Narratives Lab, and the AHEAD app.

For more from Reed Galen subscribe to⁠⁠ The Home Front⁠⁠, check out⁠⁠ Sez Us⁠⁠ for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit⁠⁠ JoinTheUnion.us⁠⁠ and sign up today.

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Host ⁠Reed Galen⁠⁠ is joined by Sarah Stein Lubrano - writer, researcher, and author of Don’t Talk About Politics: How to Change 21st Century Minds - for a candid conversation about what really changes minds in today’s divided world. They dig into why traditional debates and protests rarely move the needle, the real reasons people hold onto their beliefs, and how genuine relationships and action can be what makes a difference.

Sarah shares insights from her research on political behavior and cognitive dissonance, explains why changing minds is often a slow, social process, and talks about how activists can build movements that actually last. Plus, the limits of “debate culture,” what both left and right get wrong about persuasion, and why purpose-driven community is more powerful than traditionally expected.

For more from Sarah Stein Lubrano, check out Don’t Talk About Politics: How to Change 21st Century Minds wherever books are sold, subscribe to My Subschtick, and follow her work with the Sense and Solidarity Initiative, The Future Narratives Lab, and the AHEAD app.

For more from Reed Galen subscribe to⁠⁠ The Home Front⁠⁠, check out⁠⁠ Sez Us⁠⁠ for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit⁠⁠ JoinTheUnion.us⁠⁠ and sign up today.

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Originally recorded on Substack Live. Join host Reed Galen and Florida-based Democratic strategist Steve Schale as they go through new polling data from 21 swing counties across the country.

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Join us on this episode of the Home Front as host Reed Galen sits down with Dan Osborn, a former union leader and independent candidate for the U.S. Senate in Nebraska.

Dan shares his journey from the Kellogg plant picket lines to the political arena, highlighting the fight for fair wages and benefits amidst corporate greed. Discover how labor rights and union leadership play a crucial role in shaping a more equitable future for all workers.

Tune in to hear Dan's insights on bridging political divides and advocating for everyday Americans.

Get more information about Dan's campaign at Osborn for Senate.

Subscribe to Reed on Substack.

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In this episode, host Reed Galen is joined by Jennifer Adams, a Florida native and small business owner, to discuss the significant barriers faced by non-wealthy candidates in the political arena.

Jennifer shares her personal journey of overcoming adversity and thriving despite the odds, highlighting the systemic challenges that deter working parents and community-rooted individuals from running for office.

Together, they explore the need for better representation, the impact of financial constraints on candidacy, and the importance of grassroots support in reshaping democracy. Tune in to hear inspiring stories and insights on how we can all contribute to a more inclusive political landscape.

Find Jennifer's campaign website here.

Florida Community Conversation Recap

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In this episode, host Reed Galen is joined by Katherine Stewart, an expert on the rise of anti-democratic movements. Together, they delve into the pervasive role of misinformation and propaganda in shaping political landscapes.

From the manipulation of truth by powerful figures to the impact of disinformation on public discourse, this conversation uncovers how these tactics are used to consolidate power and influence voters. They explore the intricate web of lies and the urgent need for accountability in democratic governance.

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Find Katherine's books here.

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In this bonus episode of The Home Front, host Reed Galen is joined by Task Force Butler founder Kris Goldmsith. They discuss how far-right groups like the Patriot Front are using anger, resentment, and social media to convince young American men to join their ranks.

Find Kris on Substack.

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Host Reed Galen⁠ is joined by journalist and political reporter Abby Tracy⁠ to explore why young women are moving left while young men are trending right. They talk about how changes in education, work, media, and culture are driving this divide. Abby shares stories from her own life and reporting, reflecting on the double standards, challenges, and expectations that young people are facing today. Plus, the importance of education, opportunity, and community, and why investing in the next generation matters now more than ever. For more from Abby Tracy be sure to follow her on⁠ Twitter⁠ and⁠ Instagram⁠. For more from Reed Galen subscribe to⁠ The Home Front⁠, check out⁠ Sez Us⁠ for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit⁠ JoinTheUnion.us⁠ and sign up today.

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Recorded on Substack Live. Host Reed Galen is joined by podcaster, write, and MSNBC contributor Charlie Sykes to discuss what comes after Donald Trump in the GOP. They also discuss the continuing need for decency online, and why the Democratic Party must learn to walk and chew gum.

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