Episode 25 | Free Game: The Campaign Economics Guide

In episode 25, Rich and Kevin take listeners behind the curtain of what it really takes to win a political campaign—before the race even begins. Whether you're a first-time candidate or just curious about how the political machine works, this is a masterclass in early campaign strategy. From team structure and fundraising to political infrastructure and soft launches, the Maroon Bison boys break it all down. Oh—and there’s plenty of HBCU pride, jokes, and a little smoke for overpriced bookstore merch too.📍 00:30 - HBCU Pride and the $250 Shirt Problem Rich and Kevin reminisce about campus life, HBCU merch, and why Jordan Brand should sponsor every Black college. They also reflect on rising enrollment and the political climate that drives students back to Black institutions.📍 13:24 - Early Campaign Moves for 2026  With the 2026 midterms around the corner, the duo lays out the political calendar and stresses that if you're just getting started now, you're already behind. Campaigns are won long before Election Day.📍 19:53 - Building Your Campaign Team Like a Startup From campaign managers to finance directors, they map out the essential hires and liken campaigns to scrappy startups with high burn rates and tight timelines. It’s not about your cousin—it’s about professionals who know the game.📍 33:50 -  Fundraising, Burn Rate & Donor Geography They dive deep into donor strategy—why in-state support matters, how to manage optics around out-of-state funding, and why Twitter doesn’t translate to real votes. Spoiler: you can’t out-message a broke campaign.📍 40:06 - Political Infrastructure and Soft Launch Tactics Endorsements, party politics, grassroots groundwork—this is the inside game most folks overlook. Kevin and Rich explain why soft-launching your campaign at local events and radio shows can make all the difference by Election Day.🏆 Mamba Mentality Award No Mamba Award this episode. As Kevin mentioned, not every day is a championship day—even Kobe had rebuilding seasons. But the foundation is being laid, and part two of this campaign deep dive is on the way.