It’s been a heavy start to the year.

Between the destabilization of Venezuela and the murder of Renee Nicole Goode in Minneapolis, the cruelty and chaos of this moment feels sharper, more frightening, and more relentless than many of us expected. In this week’s episode, we talk honestly about that weight—about the despair, anger, and helplessness that can creep in when it feels like we’re watching harm unfold in real time.

We also talk about something just as important: where power actually lives right now, and what that means for how we respond.

While the presidency and the Supreme Court feel largely locked in, Congress remains a critical and underused lever. Laws can be written. Oversight can happen. Accountability is still possible. And yet, too often, it feels like members of Congress are frozen by fear, political calculation, or sheer unwillingness to challenge this administration. That frustration is real.

At the same time, we reflect on signs that we are not alone—and that resistance is not just theoretical. From the rapid, nationwide turnout for ICE Out for Good protests to court rulings that have slowed or blocked some of the administration’s cruelest actions, there are cracks in the façade. People are paying attention. Infrastructure exists. Momentum is building rather than fading.

We also talk about the long view: the 11 months between now and the midterms. How do we push back now while also preparing for November? How do we sustain ourselves emotionally and politically when the pace of harm feels faster than the pace of accountability?

As always, we share concrete actions you can take, like calling your representatives, using tools like Five Calls, staying connected to protest and postcard efforts, and inviting others into the work by making your own actions visible. And, because survival matters too, we close with joyful moments that reminded us why staying human, curious, and connected is part of resistance.

This is not an easy episode, but we needed to talk through the downs and the ups. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or unsure how to keep going without burning out, we hope this conversation helps you feel a little less alone.

🎧 Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcastsAnd if you have thoughts, ideas, or questions, reach us at [email protected] or fill out our ongoing survey at survey.acouplethinks.com.

We’re in this together—and we’re not done yet.

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