We’ve been counting down the weeks until the November election - we’re at three now, if you’re counting with us. And with everything happening in the world right now, it can be hard to feel motivated about an election. But local wins and little victories are the best antidote to the sadness and helplessness we might feel when we’re scrolling through our news feed.

So this week we are so excited to talk to Jocelyn Benson, Michigan’s Secretary of State and all-around amazing woman. She’s a voting rights expert and has expanded access to voting across her state, overseeing the most secure and highest-turnout election in Michigan’s history. Jocelyn also shares what she learned in her earlier work researching white supremacist organizations and chats about what a political race and a marathon have in common. It was a pleasure and an honor to have Secretary Benson on the pod.

Finally, Amanda, Rachel and Jasmine raise a glass to parents, a great community weekend, and Polish democracy in this episode’s “Toast to Joy.”

Speaking of Michigan, next week we’ll be joined by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer to learn how we as voters can win back our rights. And it’s not too late to RSVP for our October 19th evening with best-selling author Angie Thomas where you can learn about defeating book bans at the ballot box. To learn more about these events or our many other events, both virtual and local, check out our Events Page.

For a transcript of this episode, please email [email protected].

You can learn more about us at www.redwine.blue or follow us on social media!

Twitter: @TheSWPpod and @RedWineBlueUSA

Instagram: @RedWineBlueUSA

Facebook: @RedWineBlueUSA

YouTube: @RedWineBlueUSA