The Candidate with Dave Kerpen

Dave gets real about the nasty, dishonest political mailers being sent out against him—and how he’s choosing to fight back not with more lies or mudslinging, but with truth, transparency, and creativity (wait ‘til you hear what he did with DeceitfulDave.com 👀).We talk about how low the discourse has gotten, how broken the system feels—and why Dave believes local government doesn’t have to be partisan. He’s not just talking about problems—he’s building a movement. One that’s focused on saving taxpayer dollars, restoring trust, and serving people over party.You’ll hear stories that’ll make you shake your head—and moments that’ll leave you inspired by what real leadership looks like in 2025.What We Talk About in This Episode:The real impact of smear campaigns—and how Dave’s flipping the narrative$2M of taxpayer money spent on political attacks (yep, really)The deeper cost of normalizing political lies“Save with Dave”—what it means, and why it’s catching fireHow to lead with values, even when the attacks get personalConnect with Dave Kerpen:www.votedavekerpen.comDumpsterFireDesena.com

This week was supposed to be one of the proudest, most emotional moments of my life—dropping my daughter off at college and setting up her dorm room. But in the middle of all that, my phone lit up with texts. Friends, neighbors, supporters—everyone sending me photos of a giant, deceitful, and frankly outrageous political mailer with my face plastered next to radioactive symbols and police tape.At first, I laughed. It was so absurd it looked like a bad comic book. But then it hit me—tens of thousands of people across North Hempstead, including my 10-year-old’s friends’ families, were going to see those lies. And that’s not funny. That’s wrong.I didn’t sign up to roll over. I signed up to lead. If my opponents go low, I’m going to fight back—with truth, with facts, and with a vision for a better North Hempstead.Because at the end of the day: radioactive Hulk imagery? That’s fiction. My commitment to this town? That’s real life.Paid for by the Friends of Dave Kerpen

Running for office is the hardest thing I’ve ever done — harder than starting my first company, harder than fundraising for my first startup, and yes… even harder than writing my first book. In this season finale of The Candidate, I share an unfiltered look at my first few months as a first-time candidate in North Hempstead, New York.From hitting my first filing deadline and raising $160,000… to being called out on the dance floor by an Elvis impersonator… to discovering just how much national politics can impact a local race — this journey has been eye-opening, humbling, and at times, completely surreal.I talk about the real #1 factor in winning local elections (hint: it’s not what I thought when I started), how I’m balancing an all-consuming campaign with showing up for my family, and the lessons I wish I’d known from day one.Most importantly, I end this season with a call to action: support the local candidates in your community. Even $10 can make a difference in getting great people — not career politicians — into office.This one’s personal, candid, and a reminder that no matter how tough the fight, you can’t stop me from being me.Topics We Cover in This Episode:Hitting my first campaign filing deadline and raising $160KWhy fundraising matters more than anything else in local politicsThe Elvis “Fun Day Monday” incident and what it taught me about competitionHow national politics can ripple into local races — for better or worseBalancing community events with my commitment to familyWhy small donations have a big impact on democracySupport the Campaign:Want to help me keep going? Contribute here: Let’s Go Dave

Running for office can be a lonely, uphill journey  but it doesn’t have to be. In this very special episode of The Candidate, I sit down with Joe Scianablo, a fellow Democrat running for Town Supervisor — not in my town of North Hempstead, but right next door in Hempstead, New York — the largest township in the entire country.Joe’s story is incredible. He’s a Marine combat veteran, a former NYPD officer, a prosecutor, and most importantly — a dad. He’s running not because he wants power, but because he and his wife were tired of watching the news and feeling helpless. So they stood up. They got involved. And now, Joe is fighting to bring integrity and accountability back to local government.We even swap stories about our first intimidating meetings with party leaders, and Joe shares some leadership wisdom straight from his time serving in Iraq.This one’s honest, heartfelt, and full of the kind of civic optimism we all need right now.Topics We Cover in This Episode:Breaking down the Town Supervisor role (finally!)Why Joe got off the sidelines and into the raceCorruption, appointments, and the cost of doing nothingRunning as a Democrat in a red-leaning town — and building bridges anywayWhat military service taught Joe about leadership and collaborationConnect with Joe Scianablo:Website: https://www.joeforhempsteadsupervisor.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joefortownofhempstead/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-scianablo-009b58127/

In this episode, Dave sits down with Jon Kaiman: five-term former Town Supervisor, Deputy County Executive, statewide recovery leader after Superstorm Sandy, and current President of New York’s Tax Appeals Tribunal. But for Dave, he’s something more personal—a mentor, a friend, and the first person he called before deciding to run.Jon doesn’t hold back. He shares the emotional and strategic realities of running for office—the vulnerability, the message, the money—and why it’s one of the hardest (and most meaningful) things a person can do. They dig into what Jon learned from losing his last race, how timing and national politics shaped the outcome, and what he’d tell every candidate stepping into the arena for the first time.Plus: how he built one of the first suburban 3‑1‑1 systems in the country, launched Project Independence for seniors, and found ways to save taxpayer money while making local government actually work for people.This one’s for anyone who’s ever wondered what really goes into a campaign—and what happens on the other side of it.Topics Discussed in the Episode:Why vulnerability is the price of admission in politicsHow to run your campaign like a startup—with timing, strategy, and storyThe inside story of 3‑1‑1 and why it changed how local government operatesProject Independence and what it taught him about listening to seniorsWhat Jon would do differently—and what every candidate should knowWant to support Dave’s run for Town Supervisor?Every contribution—big or small—helps power this people-first campaign. Chip in here to fuel the movement: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/dave-kerpen-1

What happens when a lifelong educator, advocate, and proud Williston Park resident gets tired of the division—and decides to do something about it?In this episode, Dave sits down with Lisa McArdle, candidate for North Hempstead Town Council in District 3. Lisa’s not your typical politician. A registered Republican running on the Democratic line, she’s challenging the idea that party labels should define how we serve our neighbors.Lisa opens up about what it’s really like to run for office for the first time, how her family roots, her father’s mental health struggles, and her years in the classroom shaped her views on leadership. She shares why transparency in local government matters more than ever—and what needs to change so young people can afford to come home again.This episode is a heartfelt, hopeful look at what public service can be when it starts with people—not politics.Topics Discussed in the Episode:The decision to run—and what it's really been likeWhy party affiliation shouldn’t stop us from working togetherHow teaching helped her understand the power of the “why”The mental health crisis most towns aren’t ready forA five-year vision for a thriving, unified North HempsteadConnect with Lisa McArdle: https://www.friendsoflisamcardle.com/

What happens when someone with zero political ambition gets asked to run—and actually says yes?In this episode, Dave sits down with Mariann Dalimonte, North Hempstead councilwoman and fourth-generation Port Washington resident, for a conversation that’s equal parts heart, hustle, and hard truth about local leadership.They get into everything: what really drove her to run, how she became the rare leader loved across party lines, and why her inbox is both her superpower and her biggest battle. You’ll hear stories about door-knocking that turned into lifelong friendships, a now-legendary newsletter, and the kind of public service that doesn’t make headlines—but absolutely makes a difference.If you’ve ever wondered what actually goes on behind the scenes in local politics—or what it takes to be a truly likable leader—this one’s for you.Topics Discussed in the Episode:The surprising moment that pushed Mariann into public serviceHow she built trust in a deeply divided political climateThe invisible workload no one sees (and no one thanks you for)Why listening beats party loyalty—every timeWhat to know before you decide to run

In this episode, Dave sits down with Tom Garry—election law expert, longtime strategist, and First Vice Chair of the Nassau County Democratic Committee—for a fast-paced, deeply insightful look at what really goes on behind the scenes of a campaign.The conversation starts with a personal twist: Dave’s name on the ballot wasn’t legally his name. Enter Tom, the calm-in-a-crisis counsel who assured him everything would be okay—and then stuck around to share decades of political wisdom.Together, they explore Tom’s path from Bay Ridge to the heart of New York politics, the impact of national discourse on local races, and the one thing every smart candidate must get right (spoiler: it’s credibility, not charisma). Tom also shares what separates great public servants from political opportunists—and how to earn trust that actually lasts.The episode wraps with practical advice for anyone thinking about stepping into public life and a candid conversation about the state of our political discourse.Topics Discussed in the Episode:The legal ballot-name drama that almost derailed Dave’s campaignTom Garry’s early political roots (and a chance meeting with Michael Dukakis)Why local elections feel more national than everHow to build credibility that opens doors and wins respectThe most common—and costly—mistake first-time candidates makeConnect with Tom Garry and the NY Democratic Committee:Nassau County Democratic CommitteeNY State Democratic Committee

In this episode, Dave sits down with Jay Jacobs, the Chairman of the New York State Democratic Committee—someone who once intimidated Dave in a room full of presidential portraits, and now joins him for a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation about politics, power, and public service.Together, they explore how Jay got started in politics, the parallels between entrepreneurship and campaigning, and what it really takes to win a race (hint: it’s not charm—it’s strategy and relentless fundraising). Jay also shares his no-BS take on how candidates waste time, why authenticity matters, and the key mistakes hopeful politicians make when they jump into the arena.The episode closes with hard-won advice for aspiring candidates and a surprising safari story involving a former U.S. president.Topics Discussed in the Episode:Jay Jacobs’ unlikely entry into politics and his Forrest Gump momentsThe brutal realities of political fundraisingBalancing progressive ideals with electabilityCommon mistakes new candidates make

In this episode, hosts Dave Kerpen and Jess Milanes sit down with returning guest Jason Lew—friend, entrepreneur, and candidate for Town Clerk of North Hempstead. But this time, it’s not just a catch-up. It’s a milestone. If elected, Jason would become the first-ever Asian American to hold a town-wide office in one of the largest towns in America.From identity and representation to cultural hesitancy and humility, Dave and Jason dive into what it really means to put yourself on the ballot—and in the spotlight. They explore the quiet pressure many Asian American families feel to stay behind the scenes, and how stepping into leadership can break generational cycles.This episode isn’t just about politics—it’s about purpose, identity, and the quiet courage it takes to lead with both.With humor, heart, and the occasional awkward “are you related?” moment (spoiler: Christine and Jason are not cousins), this conversation is a powerful look at what it means to represent—and why it’s not the only reason to run.Topics Discussed in the Episode:Why Jason Lew is running for Town Clerk—and how it could make local historyThe cultural nuance of humility and how it clashes with campaigningWhat representation means in a town where 30% of residents are Asian AmericanIdentity politics vs. qualifications—and how Jason balances bothThe power of showing up—and how leadership can ripple across communitiesConnect with Dave Kerpen: www.davekerpen.comConnect with Jess + Smart Podcast Solutions: www.smartpodcastsolutions.com

In this episode, host Dave Kerpen introduces his first guest—and it’s a special one. Jason Lew isn’t just a fellow candidate for North Hempstead office—he’s a friend, a small business owner, and a political newcomer who’s stepping into the race for Town Clerk with a fresh perspective and a no-nonsense approach to public service.From late-night bourbon chats to campaign Zoom side-eyes, Dave and Jason open up about what it really feels like to run for office when you’re not part of the political machine. They talk about why systems matter, what the Town Clerk actually does, and how two entrepreneurs are navigating a world built for insiders.With honesty, humor, and a whole lot of grit, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who’s ever wondered what it takes to bring business brains into local government—and why it’s time for a new kind of leadership in North Hempstead.Topics Discussed in the Episode:Why Jason Lou decided to run for Town Clerk—and what the job really involvesThe unexpected friendship that started over drinks and campaign dreamsWhat it’s like to navigate politics as an outsider (and the learning curves that come with it)How project management and entrepreneurship shape their vision for public serviceThe behind-the-scenes chaos, comedy, and connection of a local raceConnect with Dave Kerpen: www.davekerpen.comConnect with Jess + Smart Podcast Solutions: www.smartpodcastsolutions.com

In this episode, host Dave Kerpen pulls back the curtain on one of the toughest parts of running for office: fundraising. Whether you’re raising $10,000 or $1 million, asking for money is hard—but there’s a strategy to doing it right. Dave shares how he’s raising a million dollars for his campaign for North Hempstead Town Supervisor and breaks down the mindset, the methods, and the muscle it takes to succeed.From creating compelling events to scaling small-dollar donations, Dave outlines his full fundraising formula. He also shares why conviction matters more than anything—and how to build belief in yourself when the stakes are high.Topics Discussed in the Episode:Why fundraising is hard—and how to get past the fear of askingSetting the right fundraising goal based on your race and resourcesEvent-based fundraising vs. online small-dollar strategiesThe psychology of donors (and what they really buy into)Building a team and attracting consultants before you have fundsConnect with Dave Kerpen: www.davekerpen.comConnect with Jess + Smart Podcast Solutions: www.smartpodcastsolutions.com

In this episode, Jess and Dave dig into the tension between personal authenticity and political polish. For years, Dave preached the importance of having one identity online—but now that he's campaigning, he's being pushed to split his digital presence.Dave gets candid about the emotional push-pull of maintaining authenticity while entering a world that thrives on control and caution. He also reflects on how his decades in social media strategy inform his unique approach to campaigning—and why he refuses to “sanitize” himself for politics.This is a refreshingly raw look at what it really takes to show up fully human in a world that prefers its candidates curated.Topics Discussed in the Episode:Why Dave refuses to separate personal and campaign social mediaThe emotional weight of staying authentic in a polished worldLessons from building one of the first social media agenciesWhy “perfect” doesn’t connect—and “messy” might just win votesThe cost (and power) of sharing political views in businessConnect with Dave Kerpen: www.davekerpen.comConnect with Jess + Smart Podcast Solutions: www.smartpodcastsolutions.com

In this episode, Dave opens up about the toughest week of his campaign so far—and what it taught him about courage, criticism, and staying grounded when the spotlight turns harsh.From getting publicly called out at a Democratic Club meeting to fielding attacks from both the far left and supporters of Israel, Dave shares what it’s really like to lead as a moderate in a polarized world. He also talks about the backlash he received for choosing family over photo ops—and why he’s unapologetic about showing up as a whole human, not just a candidate.This one’s about leadership with backbone, building trust through transparency, and holding your values—even when it hurts.Topics Discussed in the Episode:The emotional impact of public criticism on candidatesWhy being a moderate can feel isolating in polarized politicsThe role of family and personal boundaries in a campaignNavigating identity and values in the face of ideological attacksWhat authenticity in leadership really looks likeConnect with Dave Kerpen: www.davekerpen.comConnect with Jess + Smart Podcast Solutions: www.smartpodcastsolutions.com

In this episode, Dave shares how one boring software demo sparked a wild fundraising idea—reviving singing voicemails from his sales days at Radio Disney.Dave opens up about what it really takes to stand out in politics today—and why playing it safe is a losing strategy. From creative fundraising (like a 1,000-person Mets game night) to “likable leadership” webinars and smile-powered disruption, this episode is a masterclass in bold, human-centered campaigning.Topics Discussed in the Episode:Why innovation is missing in local politicsThe origin story of Dave’s famous singing voicemailsTurning boring tech features into bold fundraising momentsStanding out with joy (and a polo shirt) in a suit-and-tie worldFundraising ideas beyond traditional events: webinars, baseball, and beyondThe power of smiling through adversity—and ignoring the hatersConnect with Dave Kerpen: www.davekerpen.comConnect with Jess + Smart Podcast Solutions: www.smartpodcastsolutions.com

We’re back for Season 2 of The Candidate, and truthfully… it feels both exciting and overwhelming. A lot has happened since we last recorded. The Mets are playing again. Our petition signatures are in. And I’m officially on the ballot.But the big question I’ve been wrestling with — the one that’s kept me up at night — is: what do we call this third party?In this episode, I talk with Jess Milanes (my producer, friend, and all-around powerhouse) about what it really takes to carve out a political identity in today’s climate. And more importantly, what it means to run as a moderate when most people are tired of the extremes.We also get real. Jess shares how podcasting became a lifeline during her battle with infertility — and how that personal journey turned into a thriving business. I open up about the awkward, beautiful, occasionally bizarre world of door-to-door campaigning (including singing to a Ring doorbell — yes, really).This season, we’re not just pulling back the curtain on politics. We’re pulling it back on the human side of what it takes to lead.Topics We Get Into:Why we landed on “The Moderate Party” — and what it really signalsThe hard, hopeful reality of gathering signaturesWhat voters actually know (and don’t) when they hit the ballot boxVulnerability, imposter syndrome, and building community through storytellingAnd yes… singing voicemail messages on campaign trailsWhy this episode matters: Because running for office — especially without a big machine behind you — is messy. It’s hard. And it’s deeply personal. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to create change in your own backyard, this is your backstage pass.Connect with Dave Kerpen: DaveKerpen.comConnect with Jess Milanes + Smart Podcast Solutions: SmartPodcastSolutions.comIf you’re new here — welcome. If you’ve been following since Season 1 — thank you. We’re just getting started.Paid for by the Friends of Dave Kerpen

What happens when a candidate goes beyond traditional party lines? In this episode, Dave reveals his surprising decision to create his own third party while still running as a Democrat for town supervisor.Why take this unusual step? Dave doesn't hold back: "The Democratic brand is pretty darn broken right now." But launching a new party isn't easy - it requires special paperwork, signatures, and careful strategic planning.Dave plays his cards close to his chest, refusing to reveal his new party's name or focus even to podcast listeners! He does share one rule: not every Democratic candidate will automatically qualify for his new party line. "It would cheapen it," he explains. "It would make it a stunt. And it's not a stunt."Though most third-party efforts fail, Dave remains optimistic: "Sometimes you need one card in the river to hit your set and win the hand."What will this mystery party be called? What values will it represent? Tune in to season two to find out what Dave and his political consultants have up their sleeves!

Can you be yourself and be electable? Dave Kerpen's pajama-clad coffee run sparks a surprising debate about authenticity in politics.In this episode, Dave Kerpen faces "Pajama Gate" - when Democratic Party leaders freaked out after spotting him wearing pajamas on his daily morning coffee run to Dunkin' Donuts!Dave shares his struggle between being authentic and following political advice, including whether to hide parts of his Jewish identity from campaign materials. "I only want to pursue this new career if I can be true to who I am," Dave explains, even when party leaders warn him about turning off voters.From choosing his son's basketball game over a political meeting to refusing to apologize for his morning coffee routine, Dave reveals the surprising pressure candidates face when they step into the political spotlight. Plus, hear why Dave believes taking risks - even ones that might upset some voters - is essential to meaningful leadership.Join us for a refreshing look at one candidate's fight to keep it real in a world where even your morning coffee routine can become political!

What if the party line was in your living room - and lifelong Republicans were supporting a Democrat? In this episode, Dave takes you inside his first political fundraiser, where anxiety meets opportunity and transparency clashes with political strategy.Dave shares the stunning rare early campaign pledge from a key supporter - something his political consultant later warned him not to talk about publicly. Oops, too late for that!From lifelong Republican friends crossing party lines to the reality of needing thousands of petition signatures just to appear on the ballot, Dave pulls back the curtain on local politics. Plus, he shares a fascinating idea that could completely change how we vote!Tune in as Dave explains a unique running position, and discover why in local politics, the traditional party lines might not make as much sense as you think. Listen to find out!

What would you do if experts told you to spend 90% of your time asking for money? In this eye-opening episode, Dave Kerpen faces the startling reality of political fundraising as he launches his campaign for town supervisor.Is it really possible to raise a million dollars in just eight months? Dave shares his struggle with this daunting task and the awkward reality of asking friends for donations — including what happens when you see someone at the grocery store right after they've turned you down!Why are some lifelong Republicans making their first-ever political donations to Dave, a Democrat? And how does Dave plan to avoid the trap that snares so many politicians, where big donors expect special treatment in return?Tune in for a candid peek behind the curtain of local politics, where Dave aims to be "not famous, but known" as he navigates the uncomfortable but necessary world of campaign fundraising. You'll never look at political candidates the same way again!

What happens when fate puts you on an airplane next to a U.S. Senator? In this episode, Dave reveals how a single airplane conversation planted the seeds for his political journey 14 years before he ever announced his candidacy.From unexpected mentorship to tear-jerking messages that arrived just as his campaign launched, Dave pulls back the curtain on the personal moments that transformed him from entrepreneur to "The Candidate." Plus, discover the blunt five-word advice that shapes how Dave approaches politics differently from most.Tune in for this candid look back at not just how Dave decided to run for town supervisor, but why—and get his straight-shooting advice for anyone considering their own leap into the wild world of local politics!

What happens when a naturally positive person faces pressure to run a negative political campaign? In this revealing episode, Dave shares his struggle with a campaign consultant who insisted he "has no chance of winning" unless he attacks his opponent. Dave opens up about his surprising past as a reality TV contestant, and how that experience mirrors today's political landscape where candidates often become larger-than-life characters rather than real people.From antisemitic attack ads that actually worked, to the challenge of staying true to yourself while trying to win, Dave takes us behind the scenes of local politics where things aren't always as clean as they seem. Plus, find out why his experience as a marketing expert and author on likability is being put to the ultimate test in his run for town supervisor.Will Dave choose to "go high" even if it means risking the election? Tune in for an honest look at one candidate's struggle to balance winning with staying true to his values!

What makes someone trade business success for the hot seat of local politics?Dave Kerpen reveals his fears as he prepares for his political debut in North Hempstead. Though he's spoken to crowds of 17,000 before, he admits he's "terrified" about launching his campaign.Behind the scenes, Dave shares how he's crafting his first political speech with three key promises: boosting small businesses, creating transparent government, and cutting taxes while keeping services strong. His consultants even advised him to include "at least one Republican talking point"!As Dave weighs whether to address recent controversial events in his launch speech, he offers rare insight into the balancing act of staying true to his "centrist" values while trying to unite a divided community.Tune in for an honest look at a local dad, author, and business leader's jump into politics - and his plan to bring the principles from his Likeable books and companies  to town government!

Ever wonder what happens before someone announces they're running for office? In this episode, Dave Kerpen pulls back the curtain on the wild world of political consultants - including one who wanted to charge him $60,000 just to make sure he makes his fundraising phone calls (yes, really!). From consultants who strictly work with only one political party to the art of vetting campaign partners, Dave shares the surprising and sometimes absurd realities of building a local political campaign. Plus, find out why the best pitch he received actually came from someone with a string of losses, and how a Congresswoman ended up calling him with a recommendation. Tune in for an entertaining peek into what it really takes to launch a campaign for town supervisor - including Dave's mission to raise a million dollars in just eight months!

Ever wonder what it's really like to run for office? Meet Dave Kerpen, a successful entrepreneur, New York Times Best-selling author, who's stepping into politics for the first time. In this episode, he opens up about the fears, challenges, and surprises of running for local office. From feeling like an outsider in rooms full of politicians to learning that direct mail still beats social media, Dave shares the raw truth about jumping into public service. He's not just running a campaign - he's pulling back the curtain to show others how it's done. Whether you're curious about local politics or dream of making a difference in your own community, this inside look at a political newcomer's journey will change how you think about running for office.Receive an exclusive offer for The Candidate's audience by visiting Accudata Screening's website:https://accudataholdings.com/DAVEKERPEN/