Where Are the Adults? Alabama’s Answer Is Running for Office

In this episode of It Takes a Village, we sit down with Alabama State Senate candidate Mandie Ledkins for a conversation that goes far beyond campaign talking points.This isn’t about polished slogans.This is about the moment Mandie looked around a press conference and thought, “Where are the adults?” — and realized she might have to step up and become one.From growing up without a washer and dryer to raising four kids, leading in corporate spaces, and building a people-powered campaign with $46 average donations, Mandie brings working-class truth and unapologetic empathy into a political moment that feels anything but compassionate.We talk about:* What finally pushed her to run for office* Why children are the most overlooked voices in politics* The shrinking middle class in Alabama — and across the country* Veterans’ benefits and broken promises* Immigration, community fear, and moral courage* What it means to stay grounded when money and power try to buy your silence* Whether this system can be repaired — or needs to be rebuiltWe also ask the questions that don’t make it into most interviews:Is human compassion political?How angry are you — really?What does accountability look like when it’s uncomfortable?Mandie speaks openly about faith, ethics, empathy, and why being “transparent” means integrity when no one is watching — not just good optics.And in true Village fashion, we dig into the power beyond the candidate. This is a people-led campaign. No corporate money. Real neighbors. Real stakes. Real community action.If you’ve ever felt the pull to do more but didn’t know where you fit… this episode is for you.If you’re a parent wondering what kind of world we’re handing to our kids… this episode is for you.If you’re tired of waiting for someone else to fix it… this episode is for you.Village, this is what it sounds like when everyday people decide they’re done playing small.Press play. Tap in. Build power. Get full access to It Takes a Village Politics at ittakesavillagepolitics.substack.com/subscribe