Speak Up! Virginia

This week, catch another interview from the Social Conservative Convention. Candi and Victoria sit down with Dr. Brad Wilcox, a professor at UVA to discuss the continued value of marriage and family in restoring our culture.To learn more, visit: https://ifstudies.org/Follow Dr. Wilcox on X @BradWilcoxIFS

In this exclusive episode of Speak Up Virginia, former U.S. Senator Rick Santorum shares the deeply personal experiences that shaped his unwavering commitment to defending life. From heartbreaking loss to enduring faith, Santorum reflects on how Christ gave him the courage to stand firm in the public square.Join us for a powerful conversation about faith, family, perseverance, and why the fight for life is ultimately rooted in hope—not politics.📚 Visit familyfoundation.org to explore resources, stay informed, and learn how you can make a difference across Virginia: https://www.familyfoundation.org/🎧 Subscribe for new Speak Up Virginia episodes every Wednesday!#SpeakUpVirginia #RickSantorum #ProLife #FaithAndFreedom #ChristianPodcast #FamilyFoundation

This week, catch the part 2 of our podcast tackling the common myths you'll hear on this year's constitutional amendment. Candi and Jonathan are back to speak truth and equip you with what you need to talk to your neighbors about the constitutional battle to defend life!

This week, Candi sits down with the newest member of our team, Jonathan Bowell, a church planting pastor who's helping us mobilize grassroots teams across Virginia. Together, they tackle the lies of the other side, providing truth and encouragement to help you speak for life this year!For more information, visit: https://www.familyfoundation.org/stopunlimitedabortion

Reality is making a comeback.In this episode of Speak Up! Virginia, Candi Cushman and Victoria Cobb unpack a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision affirming that states can protect girls' and women's sports based on biological sex. What does this ruling mean for Virginia schools, parents, and student athletes? Could it reshape ongoing legal battles over locker rooms, Title IX, and girls' sports across the Commonwealth?The conversation also covers:The Supreme Court's ruling on girls' sports and biological realityWhat the decision means for Virginia and the Loudoun County locker room caseThe legal confusion surrounding Virginia's rushed marijuana commercialization lawWhy governing through the state budget created unexpected consequencesReflections on America's 250th anniversary and the values that have made our nation uniqueThe Family Foundation and the Founding Freedoms Law Center are working every day to defend faith, family, freedom, and constitutional rights in Virginia.Learn more and get involved:🌐 https://familyfoundation.org⚖️ https://foundingfreedomslaw.orgIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share to help more Virginians stay informed on the issues shaping our Commonwealth.#SpeakUpVirginia #GirlsSports #TitleIX #Virginia #SupremeCourt #FamilyFoundation #FaithFamilyFreedom

Victoria is back! This week, join Candi and Victoria to descuss the potential concerning national trend with DSA candidates sweeping Democrat primaries. Plus, learn more on the budget breakdown and what's coming to your neighborhoods thanks to the radical liberals in Richmond.We’ll be taking a short break next week to celebrate the 4th of July with friends and family. 🇺🇸But don’t worry — we’ll be back the following week with a brand-new episode. Thanks for watching and supporting Speak Up! Virginia!For more information, visit: FamilyFoundation.org.

Catch the second half of Leslie Blackwell's incredible story of redemption and healing this week on Speak Up! Virginia. Leslie and Candi confront the lies told to women and share resources for truth and healing.For information and to find support, please visit: https://supportafterabortion.com/For more information on healing post-abortion, please visit: https://www.rachelsvineyard.org/To read more post-abortion testimonials, please visit: https://abortiontestimonials.com/To help push back on the lies in our culture and defend life, visit: https://www.familyfoundation.org/life

This week, Candi is joined by Leslie Blackwell, a former Pro-Choice activist turned March for Life speaker and warrior for Life, helping women heal from their abortions. Hear the first part of this compelling interview where Leslie shares her extrordinary testimony.For more information on Leslie's work, visit: https://www.facebook.com/SilentnomoreRVA/

This week, Candi sits down with Noah Coffin, the couragous leader of a Turning Point USA Club America chapter at Albemarle High School about the issues facing Gen-Z. You wont want to miss this exclusive interview.

Tune in to our exclusive interview with Tim Goeglein from Focus on the Family. Tim shares his perspective on the moral crisis facing America and what faithful Christians can do to be a light for truth in chaotic times.To hear more from Tim, you can read his column at https://dailycitizen.focusonthefamily.com/Or purchase his new book, What Really Matters: Restoring a Legacy of Faith, Freedom, and Familyhttps://www.amazon.com/What-Really-Matters-Restoring-Freedom/dp/1956454888

This week, Candi and Victoria bring you the latest on the showdown between Senator Louise Lucas and Governor Spanberger. Recent Governor's vetos meams things are heating up! Plus, one podcast host's family reveals the truth behind what women really want.Contact Governor Spanberger's office about upcoming legislation: https://tinyurl.com/mryb56ty

Riley Gaines joins Speak Up Virginia for a powerful conversation on protecting women’s sports, defending life, and standing for truth in today’s culture. Hear her full speech from our Northern Virginia Benefit Dinner and why these battles matter for the future of Virginia and beyond.Learn more at https://www.familyfoundation.org

It's been a BIG week for Virginia. Catch up on all the details from the SCOVA's move to overturn the Redistricting Referrendum to Sen. Lucas' FBI raid and new evidence on the shady dealings of the SPLC. Candi and Victoria break down the latest updates.

This week, Candi and Victoria bring you the highlights from our Northern Virginia dinner with Riley Gaines. Plus, learn more about a Supreme Court win and what the Founding Freedoms Law center is doing to combat deceptive ballot language for Virginia's Abortion amendment.To learn more about the case and support the work of FFLC, check out: https://www.foundingfreedomslaw.org/For resources on how you can help fight the amendment, visit: https://www.familyfoundation.org/stopunlimitedabortion

This week, hear the incredible story of Mayra Rodriguez, a former Planned Parenthood Employee of the year who was fired for blowing the whistle. Now she's on a mission to unmask the desceptive lies of the abortion industry.Learn more about how you can get involved at: https://www.familyfoundation.org/stopunlimitedabortion

This week, Victoria Cobb and Dr. Todd Gathje bring you updates on Gov. Spanberger's actions: what she signed, what got vetoed, and the odd press statement she released on the rest. Tune in for the full update.Catch Victoria and Todd as they participate in America Reads the Bible this Saturday! https://www.americareadsthebible.com/

Join us for a special treat this week, as we give you an exclusive look at Victoria's recent speech. Plus, learn more about a recent Supreme Court decision and what the implications could be for Virginians.To join us at the March for Life on April 22nd, visit: FamilyFoundation.org/mfl26

This week, Candi and Victoria bring you the latest update on a court case that could guarentee Virginia's homeschool students the ability to compete in high school sports. Plus, Governor Abigail Spanberger weighs in on the Gerrymandering fight. Learn more about how you can get engaged to combat the left wing power grabs and help defend life in Virginia this year.For more information, visit: https://www.familyfoundation.org/

🔥 Is Planned Parenthood pivoting to Botox?! | VA Politics, Backlash & Big Wins ExplainedWhat’s going on in Virginia right now might surprise you…In this episode of the Speak Up Virginia Podcast, host Candi Cushman sits down with Todd Gathje (VP of Government Relations at The Family Foundation) to break down a wild legislative session—plus some unexpected twists involving Planned Parenthood.👉 From Botox injections to failed backroom deals, to major policy battles, we cover the biggest stories shaping Virginia right now.🎯 In This Episode:💉 Planned Parenthood’s new direction?Reports of clinics offering Botox as funding declinesWhat this says about the future of the abortion industry🏢 Richmond Deal COLLAPSESPlanned Parenthood backs out of controversial $10 property dealWhat caused the sudden reversal?🗳️ Is a political backlash building in Virginia?Special election results raising eyebrowsWhat it could mean for upcoming votes⚠️ Gerrymandering Amendment UpdateGrowing opposition and what voters need to knowWhy April 21st matters✅ Major Wins This SessionDefeat of a bill targeting school choice & private educationEuthanasia legislation stopped in committee❌ Key Concerns Moving ForwardParental rights and contraception billsMarijuana commercialization coming to VirginiaGambling expansion & budget battles📖 Read More from Todd:👉https://www.familyfoundation.org/blog/xl24dfom3ri4cshb17jqi2qft81mvp📢 Take Action:🗳️ Vote on the gerrymandering amendment by April 21🌐 Get resources & stay informed: https://www.familyfoundation.org🚍 Join the Virginia March for Life🎙️ Speak Up Virginia Podcast — where faith, policy, and culture intersect.👍 Like, Comment, and Subscribe for more breakdowns on what’s happening in Virginia and beyond.

This week, Candi is joined by Dr. Todd Gathje, Vice-President of Government Relations a the Family Foundation. Learn more about important legislation heading to Gov. Spanberger's desk. Plus, a major update on a crack down from the Albemarle School Board on a local Turning Point USA chapter--who's trying to silence free speech?Form more information on our Pastor Packets or to register for the March for Life on April 22nd, please visit: https://www.familyfoundation.org/

This week, Candi and Victoria bring you developments around a Turning Point USA club at Albemarle High School making national news. Plus, learn more about a ground breaking Supreme Court win for parental rights. For more information, visit: https://www.familyfoundation.org/

This week, Candi and Victoria bring you behind the scenes details on how big money interests are pushing gambling on Virginians behind closed doors. Plus, learn more about how you can join us at this year's Virginia March for Life.For more infomation, visit https://www.familyfoundation.org/

This week, Candi and Victoria bring you critical updates from Richmond, including the deceptive language that will appear on our ballots in April and November. Plus, learn more about a HUGE win for life in Lynchburg!For more information, visit familyfoundation.org.

This week, Candi and Victoria bring you critical updates in the latest on the plot for partisan gerrymandering in Virginia. Plus, learn more about some surprising wins at the General Assembly.

On this week's episode, Victoria and Candi bring you more shocking updates from the Virginia General Assembly. Learn why pictures standing with VMI are spreading all over social media, plus, hear from our team about an unexpected victory in Richmond!Visit FamilyFoundation.org to sign up for alerts!

A judge says “stop,” but Virginia lawmakers keep moving forward. What’s really happening at the State Capitol, and why are these decisions impacting elections, children, and families?In this episode of Speak Up Virginia, host Candi Cushman sits down with Victoria Cobb, president of The Family Foundation, to break down the latest developments:Gerrymandering amendment: What the court halted, why lawmakers are rushing it forward, and how it could affect the 2026 midterms.Abortion amendment: How vague language in the ballot question could put minors and medical accountability at risk, and what voters need to know.Gender transition procedures for minors: The shocking role of the Teachers Union, the first major settlement for detransitioners, and bills currently under debate.Other legislative updates: Marijuana commercialization, “Don’t Tread on Parents’ Day,” and critical local opt-out efforts.Positive trends: Young people increasingly identifying as pro-life and ways you can make a difference in your community.🎙️ This episode covers both the urgent challenges and the ways we can proactively stand for families, children, and communities in Virginia.Resources & Links Mentioned in the Episode:The Family Foundation: https://www.familyfoundation.orgGerrymandering amendment info & timeline: Available at Family Foundation websiteNo Guardrails Abortion Amendment redliner: https://www.familyfoundation.org (bottom of page, click the banner)Virginia March for Life: https://marchforlife.org/virginia – April 22, 2026Virginia Professional Educators Association: https://virginiaeducators.orgDon’t Tread on Parents’ Day – February 10, 2026: Info at Family Foundation website📌 Stay informed. Get involved. Stand up for children, families, and faith in Virginia.

Candi and Victoria bring you important updates about the list of radical bills currently making their way through our General Assembly. Spanberger's administration has already proven she's a far cry from her moderate marketing campaign.Visit familyfoundation.org to sign up for our Don't Tread on Parents Day and make your voice heard in Richmond!

This week, Candi and Victoria cover what you can expect from Virginia's new radical progressives in government, an update on the constitutional amendment process, and most insane bills in the General Assembly.Plus, hear more about a recent Supreme Court case and Victoria's testimony on the harm caused by the abortion industry.You can hear Victoria's full speech here: https://youtu.be/hitpHns7Lz8

This week, Candi and Victoria cover Mamdani's swearing in and how some are trying to bring "The warmth of collectivism" to our own backyard in Virginia. Hear more on what you can expect from Spanberger's cabinet picks and radical leftists in the VA General Assembly.

Before we dive into a packed season of legislative battles, we’re turning to something foundational: God’s Word.Bunni Pounds from Christians Engaged joins us in this special episode to share the vision behind America Reads the Bible—a nationwide Scripture initiative launching this spring that Christians across the country can participate in. She also highlights the impactful grassroots work of Christians Engaged through its Pray–Vote–Engage movement, equipping believers to live out their faith in the public square.Plus, we offer a preview of upcoming Richmond Capitol Action Days focused on life, parental rights, religious liberty, and education—important dates to mark on your calendar.From The Family Foundation. Links America Reads the Bible- https://www.americareadsthebible.com/Christians Engaged- https://christiansengaged.org/Links to Action daysVA Pro-life Day- https://vaprolifeday.org/Parental Rights Day- https://www.familyfoundation.org/donttreadonparentsVA March For Life- https://marchforlife.org/virginiaIf this episode encouraged you, leave a review and tell us what stood out to you.📲 Share this episode with a friend, church group, or family member who cares about faith, freedom, and the future of our nation.👍 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you don’t miss future episodes.📌 Programming Note:This will be our final episode of the year. We’ll be taking a short break and will return with a brand-new episode on January 14th.Thanks for watching and standing with us.

This week, Candi and Victoria bring you updates on the Loudoun Three case. Plus, learn more about the cabinet appointments Gov-Elect Abigail Spanberger has announced, including some familiar names.

Pot shops on every corner? The Virginia legislature is gearing up for legislative session in January. Liberal legislators have made it clear that they'll be pushing for legalization, seeing DEI and dollar sign potential. Victoria and Candi break down what this will mean for our communities. Plus, coverage of Hanover County's newest celebrity: a raccoon who broke into a local ABC store.

This week, Victoria and Candi bring critical updates on the upcoming battle to defend marriage. Plus, content that could get you cancelled from Mr. Rogers. To learn more about the upcoming constitutional amendment battles, visit: FamilyFoundation.org

There’s easy no way around it—last week’s election results were a solid punch to the gut for those of us who care about life, family and freedom. We’re still processing the fact that a majority of Virginians have no qualms voting for candidates who celebrate unlimited abortion and even fantasize about political murder. It’s heartbreaking… it raises serious questions. What do the numbers tell us about how we got here? And where did things go wrong? And most importantly—as Christians how do we rise to this moment with courage and biblical clarity? We’re going to break that all down today.EDIT: The Pro-life advocacy day is on January 15th, NOT January 16th as state in the episode.

The nation is watching as Virginia Democrats push their redistricting power grab in an effort to cement one-party control in the state for years to come. And court challenges are already lining up. We’ll break down the latest developments and highlight how Virginians like you showed up strong at We the People Day, standing for truth and constitutional integrity — even when their voices—and their flags-- were shut down.Plus, stay tuned for an exclusive message from Officer Tatum — a former police officer, nationally known Christian conservative voice and turning pt contributor who has a powerful word of faith and courage.#OfficerBrandonTatum #VaLeg #policy #nokings

A big bombshell exploded in Virginia politics over the last few days. At the time we recorded this, Democrats were trying to rush through an effort to change the constitution on redistricting through a special session—right in the middle of election season. If they pull it off, it could lead to a left-leaning super-majority and fast-track major changes on abortion and transgender policy. We’ll unpack the full scope of this dramatic power grab—and what it means for the Commonwealth. Plus, we  cover how the transgender issues and scandals surrounding Jay Jones are shaking up this election in unexpected ways. These aren’t just headlines—they’re the battles shaping Virginia’s future.

Today we’re going to talk about a huge shift in our youth culture: new data showing the number of students identifying as trans has plummeted. What’s behind this reversal? Plus—we have a special treat—we unleash Delegate Nick Freitas’s gala speech—a gutsy warrior call to stand firm in the ideological war we all face, rooted in faith and grounded in spiritual victory.Stay tuned—this will challenge you at a gut level.

This week, hear Victoria Cobb's President's address from our recent gala in Richmond. Plus, Candi and Victoria bring you unbelievable updates on the Jay Jones text message scandal and how we're responding to leftwing lunacy.

This week, Candi and Victoria bring you updates on the story of Victoria being cancelled along with a planned TPUSA event. Plus, learn more about Gov. Youngkin's updated action to protect girls sports. All this and the second portion of Andrew Walker's message on building Biblical culture.If you’d like to dig deeper, check out these books from Andrew T. Walker: God & the Transgender Debate: https://www.amazon.com/God-Transgender-Debate-Andrew-Walker/dp/1784981788What Do I Say When . . . ?: A Parent's Guide to Navigating Cultural Chaos for Children and Teens:https://www.amazon.com/dp/1433592746/?bestFormat=true&k=what%20do%20i%20say%20when%20andrew%20walker&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_k0_1_18_de

This week, Candi & Victoria bring you a shocking update from a Virginia TPUSA chapter's scheduled event. Plus, hear an exclusive talk by Andrew Walker of Bully Pulpit.If you’d like to deeper, check out these books from Andrew T. Walker: God & the Transgender Debate: https://www.amazon.com/God-Transgender-Debate-Andrew-Walker/dp/1784981788What Do I Say When . . . ?: A Parent's Guide to Navigating Cultural Chaos for Children and Teens:https://www.amazon.com/dp/1433592746/?bestFormat=true&k=what%20do%20i%20say%20when%20andrew%20walker&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_k0_1_18_de

John Stonestreet, president of the Colson Center, shares the heart behind his powerful new film "Truth Rising" and why its message matters today more than ever. 🎬✨ Don’t miss this inspiring conversation and discover how you can help spread the word!📺 Watch More: Explore the full Speak Up Virginia playlist on YouTube.🎧 Please leave a review to help others find us!💡 Remember: We are stronger when we speak together.#SpeakUpVirginia #FaithFamilyFreedom #Truthrising #ChristianPodcast #NewFilm #FaithInAction #Inspiration #Community #StrongerTogether #YouTubePodcast #PodcastInterview #Johnstonestreet

Out of heartbreak comes bold courage. 💪✨In this powerful episode of Speak Up! Virginia, host Candi Cushman sits down with Victoria Cobb, President of The Family Foundation, to unpack two breaking stories:⚡ Remembering Charlie Kirk’s Impact – Honoring the life and legacy of a fearless voice for faith, family, and freedom.⚖️ Loudoun Boys’ Appeal Denied – What this decision means for parental rights and the fight for justice in Virginia.Join us as we explore how tragedy can spark courage and why now is the time to stand strong for truth.👉 Watch, share, and speak up with us!🔔 Subscribe to stay updated on the latest news defending faith, family, and freedom: 📢 Follow The Family Foundation:Instagram: @familyfoundationactionFacebook: facebook.com/tffvaX/Twitter: @tffva#CharlieKirk #Loudoun #Virginia #FaithFamilyFreedom #SpeakUpVirginia #Kirk #Charlie #memorial

On this week's episode, Candi & Victoria cover hot topics including Sen. Kaine's recent controversy. Plus, hear the latest on how radical leftist policies in Northern Virginia are making an impact in this year's race for governor.Coverage on the tragic Minnesota school shooting: 00:51 Tim Kaine Comments: 15:38 Governor race ad wars: 25:16Inconceivable- redacted leftist words: 36:38

On this week's episode, Candi and Victoria bring you important updates on religious liberty. Plus, check out our exclusive interview with Ambassador Sam Brownback. For more information on defending religious liberty in Virginia visit FoundingFreedomsLaw.org. To learn more about Ambassador Brownback's work visit: ncrf.us or irfsummit.org.

This week, join us for an EXCLUSIVE interview. Candi sits down the Seth, the father of one of the boys in the Loudoun 3 Case. Plus, hear from Josh Hetzler, an attorney with The Founding Freedom's Law Center, who represents the Loudoun boys and their families.Learn more about the case at FoundingFreedomsLaw.org

This week, Candi and Victoria bring you news of a BIG win to protect girls' sports! Plus, don't miss the drop-in update on the latest outrageous news from Loudoun County.

This week, Candi and Victoria bring you an exclusive interview with FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson to discuss the recent hearing held by the FTC on so-called "gender affirming care." Plus, Candi and Todd talk about what this means for Virginia.To watch the full hearing, visit: https://www.regulations.gov/docket/FTC-2025-0264For more information on action you can take in Virginia, visit: familyfoundation.org/protectourgirls

This week, Candi and Victoria bring you a special episode. They sat down with American Principles Project President, Terry Schilling, at SoCon 2025 to talk about what's hot in politics, culture, and the fight to defend our families.

This week, Candi is joined by Family Foundation Action's Bruce Schlesman to cover Virginia updates. Plus, hear from CNN's black sheep, Scott Jennings, the lone conservative voice on a liberal network.To support our ongoing work, visit: FamilyFoundation.org

This week, Josh Hetzler of the Founding Freedoms Law Center joins Candi to review big wins from SCOTUS. Learn what these recent court victories mean for Virginia's families.Find more information at FoundingFreedomsLaw.org