Ep. 60: Karen McDonald Gets Real About Courage, Community & the Chaos of Modern Politics

In this fiery and fun episode of Beyond Resistance, Sarah and Jennifer come in hot, kicking things off with what might be the most passionate political rant you’ll hear all week (Jim Clyburn, we’re looking at you). From aging incumbents to billionaire adjacent self funders, this one dives deep into the realities of modern campaigns, grassroots organizing, and why everyday people deserve leaders who actually get what everyday life feels like. Then they sit down with Karen McDonald, Oakland County Prosecutor and Democratic candidate for Michigan Attorney General—and honestly? She delivers. Big time. Karen opens up about growing up working class, raising five kids, surviving the Trump era, and becoming nationally known for holding the Oxford school shooter’s parents accountable. She also gets wonderfully candid about burnout, sewing as self care, and what it’s like running for office while refusing to compromise your core values. Expect sharp insights, relatable laughs, and real talk about courage, community, and the stakes of 2026. If you care about political organizing, grassroots power, Michigan politics, elections, or how local leaders can fight national extremism, this episode is your jam. Plus, you’ll learn which items hold sentimental value for our hosts and guest (spoiler: Christmas ornaments and a grandpa’s diploma make the cut). 🎧 Listen now and get inspired to build blue power in red communities—because resistance was just the beginning. @karenmcdonaldformi