Want to Know How to Help Minneapolis? On the Ground with Civil Defense Attorney, Cari Brunkow

**Note: Before you listen**This episode contains discussions of disturbing events that have taken place in Minnesota. Please take care while listening.“Shouldn't we as a society really be taking a step back and dissecting this hate, and realize that it is shameful and embarrassing?...Right now, you guys might be interviewing me about what's happening in Minneapolis. I hope nobody is ever interviewing you about what is happening in your neighborhoods.” - Cari BrunkowWhat happens when the national headlines are in your neighborhood?In this powerful and deeply human conversation, Megan Senese and Jennifer Ramsey sit down with Cari Brunkow, founder and counsel of Lotus Legal, a Minneapolis-based criminal defense and civil rights attorney who is living, and lawyering, in the middle of escalating ICE activity and community unrest.Cari shares what it feels like to launch a human-centered law practice, and watch violence unfold in her own city just days later. She speaks candidly about fear, grief, anger, and hope, and about what it means to show up as a lawyer, a mother, and a community member when the fight feels personal.This is not a neat conversation. There are no easy answers. But there is honesty, proximity, and a reminder that we are not alone and we can all do something.You’ll hear about:Why Cari named her firm Lotus Legal, and what the lotus symbolizes in criminal defense and civil rights workWhat she’s seeing firsthand in Minneapolis, and how it differs from national narrativesThe emotional toll of witnessing violence in your own communityWhat it means to “get proximate” even if you don’t live in MinnesotaPractical ways to support affected communitiesWhy speaking up makes all of us saferAbout Cari Brunkow:Cari Brunkow is the founder and counsel of Lotus Legal, a Minneapolis-based criminal defense and civil rights firm. With more than a decade of experience representing individuals in law enforcement brutality cases and protecting constitutional rights, Cari launched her solo practice in 2025 to align her legal work fully with her values. She is a mother, a community advocate, and a fierce believer in proximity, truth, and collective courage.Ways You Can Get Involved:Support local journalism (e.g., Minnesota Public Radio)Buy gift cards or directly support small businesses in affected communities - Learn more about Mercado CentralCall your congressional representatives regarding ICE and DHS fundingCheck out the National Lawyers GuildCheck out the National Immigration Law CenterStay Connected:Love So Much To Say? Let us know! Drop a review, give us 5 stars in your favorite podcast app, and tell us what made you laugh, think, or just go “yep, that’s me.” Every review helps us reach more awesome humans who want to make legal…well, human. Want to go deeper? Curious about 1:1 coaching with Megan or Jen? Or want the inside scoop on stage? Hit us up below, we’d love to chat!Learn more about stageConnect with Megan Senese Connect with Jennifer RamseyEmail stage at [email protected]