Civic Cipher

Congressional candidate Elizabeth Lee is a nationally recognized nurse, board-certified patient advocate, and reproductive healthcare policy expert with over a decade of experience advancing access to care. She built a career helping thousands of patients navigate complex medical, financial, and ethical barriers—while also advising lawmakers on federal IVF and reproductive health protections. @NurseLee4AZ Today’s conversation covers Right to Dissent regulations that prevent the boycotting of the Israeli government, the ever-looming threat of Turning Point USA-backed candidates outspending Democrats in local and national elections, and where Democrats are failing to meet the calls of their constituents.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Congressional candidate Elizabeth Lee is a nationally recognized nurse, board-certified patient advocate, and reproductive healthcare policy expert with over a decade of experience advancing access to care. She built a career helping thousands of patients navigate complex medical, financial, and ethical barriers—while also advising lawmakers on federal IVF and reproductive health protections. @NurseLee4AZ Today’s conversation covers Right to Dissent regulations that prevent the boycotting of the Israeli government, the ever-looming threat of Turning Point USA-backed candidates outspending Democrats in local and national elections, and where Democrats are failing to meet the calls of their constituents.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today’s guest is Kim Hunt—better known on social media as @SlaytheGOP. She is a political science major who has studied journalism and amassed a social media following of over 650,000 active supporters. Her experience in the foster care system has given her a unique perspective of various societal pitfalls and how to best remedy them. We discuss her many issues with GOP governance, her issues with Democrats, how content creators fall short with their attempts at journalism and lists her best practices that she observes when recording.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today’s guest is Kim Hunt—better known on social media as @SlaytheGOP. She is a political science major who has studied journalism and amassed a social media following of over 650,000 active supporters. Her experience in the foster care system has given her a unique perspective of various societal pitfalls and how to best remedy them. We discuss her many issues with GOP governance, her issues with Democrats, how content creators fall short with their attempts at journalism and lists her best practices that she observes when recording.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the first half of the show, we share the latest coming from the White House beginning with the Doordash Grandma that grabbed headlines earlier this week. We then discuss Fox News’ obsession with running stories on trans people. We finish the first half by sharing the Trump administration’s thoughts on the President in their own words.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the second half of the show, we discuss Pew Research data showing an increase in unfavorable views of Israel and Netanyahu among younger voters in particular. We also discuss Kamala Harris teasing another White House run.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne Yatim is a human rights major former Miss Arab USA, actress, filmmaker, author, and activist. As an activist and Palestinian American, she spent time in Palestine working with a peace keeping team and has a deep and personal understanding of the occupation. She can be found online @theactorvist. Suzanne discusses the passing of Israeli legislation that exclusively subjects Palestinians to the death penalty. Later she discusses the religious basis (or lack thereof) for much of the fighting in Palestine and Iran. She also discusses politicians distancing themselves from AIPAC.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne Yatim is a human rights major former Miss Arab USA, actress, filmmaker, author, and activist. As an activist and Palestinian American, she spent time in Palestine working with a peace keeping team and has a deep and personal understanding of the occupation. She can be found online @theactorvist. Suzanne discusses the passing of Israeli legislation that exclusively subjects Palestinians to the death penalty. Later she discusses the religious basis (or lack thereof) for much of the fighting in Palestine and Iran. She also discusses politicians distancing themselves from AIPAC.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First Half: Congressional candidate Elizabeth Lee is a nationally recognized nurse, board-certified patient advocate, and reproductive healthcare policy expert with over a decade of experience advancing access to care. She built a career helping thousands of patients navigate complex medical, financial, and ethical barriers—while also advising lawmakers on federal IVF and reproductive health protections. Running for SRP Board President: Commissioner Sandra Kennedy began her public service career when she was elected to the Arizona House of Representatives in November 1986, where she served for six years. In 1992, Sandra successfully ran for a seat in the Arizona State Senate, serving three terms. Sha has sponsored legislation that was signed into law concerning Domestic Violence Shelters, Foster Care Placement, the Prenatal Care Education Fund, and City Powers related to Fair Housing. Sandra was also elected to the Arizona Corporation Commission in 2008 on a platform of promoting solar energy and serving as a strong consumer advocate. She was re-elected to the Arizona Corporation Commission in 2018 with a focus on restoring integrity and transparency, reducing unjustified utility rate hikes, and increasing solar and renewable energy in Arizona, especially rooftop solar. Running for SRP Board Vice President: SPR Board At-Large Member Casey Clowes currently serves on the Salt River Project District Board in At-Large seat 11 and is running to support healthy, sustainable communities across the Valley. As VP, she will advocate for a fair transition to a renewable energy economy and ensure AI data centers pay their fair share. She is a graduate of ASU, where she earned a BS in Public Service and Public Policy and a JD from Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law. While working at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Casey represented the public interest by ensuring reliable, safe, secure, and cost-effective energy for consumers.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Second Half Congressional candidate Elizabeth Lee is a nationally recognized nurse, board-certified patient advocate, and reproductive healthcare policy expert with over a decade of experience advancing access to care. She built a career helping thousands of patients navigate complex medical, financial, and ethical barriers—while also advising lawmakers on federal IVF and reproductive health protections. Running for SRP Board President: Commissioner Sandra Kennedy began her public service career when she was elected to the Arizona House of Representatives in November 1986, where she served for six years. In 1992, Sandra successfully ran for a seat in the Arizona State Senate, serving three terms. Sha has sponsored legislation that was signed into law concerning Domestic Violence Shelters, Foster Care Placement, the Prenatal Care Education Fund, and City Powers related to Fair Housing. Sandra was also elected to the Arizona Corporation Commission in 2008 on a platform of promoting solar energy and serving as a strong consumer advocate. She was re-elected to the Arizona Corporation Commission in 2018 with a focus on restoring integrity and transparency, reducing unjustified utility rate hikes, and increasing solar and renewable energy in Arizona, especially rooftop solar. Running for SRP Board Vice President: SPR Board At-Large Member Casey Clowes currently serves on the Salt River Project District Board in At-Large seat 11 and is running to support healthy, sustainable communities across the Valley. As VP, she will advocate for a fair transition to a renewable energy economy and ensure AI data centers pay their fair share. She is a graduate of ASU, where she earned a BS in Public Service and Public Policy and a JD from Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law. While working at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Casey represented the public interest by ensuring reliable, safe, secure, and cost-effective energy for consumers.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(First Half) Raven Schwam-Curtis is a Black and Jewish content creator, advocate, and speaker. An academic turned content creator, Raven is an alumna of Cornell University and Northwestern University, and her work uniquely blends personal storytelling with social justice advocacy. She elevates important conversations around intersectionality, political activism, and systemic change. Her contributions have been featured in major outlets like Glamour Magazine, The Washington Post, USA Today, POLITICO, and Buzzfeed. And She is our guest today!Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(Second Half) Raven Schwam-Curtis is a Black and Jewish content creator, advocate, and speaker. An academic turned content creator, Raven is an alumna of Cornell University and Northwestern University, and her work uniquely blends personal storytelling with social justice advocacy. She elevates important conversations around intersectionality, political activism, and systemic change. Her contributions have been featured in major outlets like Glamour Magazine, The Washington Post, USA Today, POLITICO, and Buzzfeed. And She is our guest today!Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(First Half) Russell "Jolly" Ellis, known as Jolly Good Ginger, is a North Carolina-born social media activist and former contestant on *Survive the Raft*. With millions of followers across social media, he focuses on deconstructing his upbringing in a racist, white supremacist household to educate others, advocating for racial justice and accountability across American systems. He’s not a standard political creator. He’s a loud, profane, unapologetic, anti-racist white Southern man who uses humor, anger, and authenticity to call out white supremacy and MAGA extremism from inside the culture that created it. He’s rare. He’s needed…and He is our guest todaySupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(Second Half) Russell "Jolly" Ellis, known as Jolly Good Ginger, is a North Carolina-born social media activist and former contestant on *Survive the Raft*. With millions of followers across social media, he focuses on deconstructing his upbringing in a racist, white supremacist household to educate others, advocating for racial justice and accountability across American systems. He’s not a standard political creator. He’s a loud, profane, unapologetic, anti-racist white Southern man who uses humor, anger, and authenticity to call out white supremacy and MAGA extremism from inside the culture that created it. He’s rare. He’s needed…and He is our guest todaySupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First Half: In the first half of the episode, we discuss the purported justification for sweeping changes to U.S. elections using data from right-wing think-tanks. We also discuss a viral video of a Black woman being profiled by police as a crack dealer when she was handing a cup of coffee to her child.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Second Half: In the second half of the show, we discuss how religion has begun to infiltrate the command structure of our military and the implications thereof. Finally, we discuss how the NFL is a socialist enterprise.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First Half: In the first half of the episode, we discuss the impact of the Raegan administration on Black Americans and explain the harms that are still being felt today.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Second Half: In the second half of the show we explain how DEI positively and disproportionately impacted White women relative to other groups.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First Half: In the first half of the episode, we discuss the implications for the MAGA voter base of Trump’s immigration policy and its effect on the job market. We also discuss how Trump and other conservatives hide racism behind their proximity to Black conservatives and how this phenomenon is mutually beneficial to them.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Second Half: The second half of the show sees us discussing a new trend of MAGA Christians referring to empathy as ‘sinful’ and ‘toxic’ as a way to provide cover for their extreme beliefs. We also discuss the shifting trends in Pew Research data of Black Americans over the last quarter-century and discuss the implications.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First Half: In the first half of the episode, we comb through several statements typically made by folks who intend to distance themselves from racists but they end up sounding racist themselves. We examine the intention typically found behind these statements, but also how they can be perceived as problematic.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Second Half: The second half of the show is dedicated to The 8 White Identities by Barnor Hesse—a supposition by the professor that segments different White identities based on their level of racist/anti-racist behavior. We give our thoughts on this insightful chart and share examples of how we see these behaviors played out in real life.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In This Episode Congressional candidate Elizabeth Lee is a nationally recognized nurse, board-certified patient advocate, and reproductive healthcare policy expert with over a decade of experience advancing access to care. She built a career helping thousands of patients navigate complex medical, financial, and ethical barriers—while also advising lawmakers on federal IVF and reproductive health protections. First Half: We begin this segment by discussing Elizabeth Lee’s background as a national figure and advocate for IVF treatment for individuals struggling with conception. She makes her case as a congressional candidate and discusses what she plans to bring to Washington D.C. if elected. Second Half: The second half of the show is dedicated to uncovering some of the shortcomings of the current administration and discussions of how Elizabeth Lee plans to interject common sense, diversity of thought, and a scientific/fact-based approach to problem-solving if elected.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First Half: We begin this segment by discussing the importance of Black women and the fact that they continually work to heal this country and save America from itself. We also discuss a new study that reveals the lifelong effects of enduring racism and how it leads to early deaths in the Black population.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Second Half: Today’s Guest is the author of the book “Navigating School Board Politics” and an associate professor at Arizona State University. Dr. Carrie Sampson joins us again to discuss National School Choice Week here in the U.S. and what it means for communities across the country.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First Half: ICE Spending and Using Influencers to Recruit New Agents Uvalde Officer Found Not Guilty in School Shooting Trial Ted Cruz leaves Texas Ahead of Inclement Weather AgainSupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Second Half: Football Player Fined for Wearing “Stop the Genocide” across his face The Black Panther Party Challenges ICE in PhiladelphiaSupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First Half: Trump Says Civil Rights Left White People ‘Very Badly Treated’ White Cop Shoots Black Cop 10 Times Mistaking Him for Suspect Trump is Changing Midterm Election RulesSupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Second Half: Jesse Lee Peterson Says Former NFL Star Speaks Like a White Man A Few Statements from MLK that Can't Be WhitewashedSupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the first half of the show, we discuss how an ICE agent shot and killed a woman in MinneapolisSupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the second half of the show, we discuss how January 6th is being whitewashed by the United States Government and how the US abducted the president of Venezuela.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In This Episode: Civic Cipher On the Ground in 2025 Guests of 2025 Shameful Moments of 2025Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In This Episode: Assata Shakur 1947-2025 Stories we Covered in 2025 Entertainment News ReflectionsSupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marc H. Morial is President and CEO of the National Urban League, the nation's largest historic civil rights and urban advocacy organization. Our conversation with Marc Morial begins with some of the biggest political lessons we have learned in 2025 and what we can look forward to in 2026. We also discuss the rise of Democratic Socialism and the impact of Mamdani’s campaign in NYC.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marc H. Morial is President and CEO of the National Urban League, the nation's largest historic civil rights and urban advocacy organization. In the second half of the show, we discuss a variety of things ranging from the impact of tariffs on Black Americans to the future of DEI. Marc also leaves us with some solid advice to fortify us in the new year.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the first half of the show, we are discussing Trump refusing to rule out summary executions, how the FBI infiltrated BLM protests to undermine the movement.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the second half of the program, we discuss how Phoenix adopted an idea from the Defund the Police movement and how when Trump weighs in on national tragedies, he often ends up making things worse.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the second half of the program, we examine several of the problems that have arisen (or otherwise been exacerbated) within the carceral system under the current administration.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today’s guest, Gigi Assi is the Founder and CEO of Prodigy Pathways, a national nonprofit focused on expanding access to elite sports development and mentorship for underserved youth.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the second half of the program, we discuss the consequences of unchecked power and anonymity given to ICE agents and how they have deployed their terror campaign in North Carolina.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today’s guest, Ami Horowitz is an American conservative documentary filmmaker and activist. He is the writer, producer, and director of Ami on the Loose, a satirical short film series. He is also the host of the recent documentary The Art of War—a look into the practices of the IDF We dive deep into the merits and drawbacks of the cash bail system by examining racial biases, data, and conversations from actual people captured in Ami's film.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the first half of the show, we discuss the newly elected female Democratic leadership, several reasons people dislike Trump, and how the president has been flip-flopping with his position on whether or not to allow SNAP benefit payoutsSupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the second half of the show, we discuss a DL Hughley interview with TMZ and ask ‘Do ex-MAGA deserve forgiveness? We also discuss a forthcoming nationwide economic boycott blackout scheduled to start Nov. 25th. We give the reasons behind the move, the potential impact, and how to be most effective with boycotting in general.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today’s Guest is the author of the book “Navigating School Board Politics” and an associate professor at Arizona State University. Dr. Carrie Sampson’s research focuses on K-12 educational leadership, policymaking and equity, with particular emphasis on school boards, districts, and community advocacy. She serves as a fellow for the National Education Policy Center and the Black Education Research Center.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne Yatim joins us to discuss the updates coming from Gaza and to give her insights on how the 2024 presidential election has shaped the war, how the ceasefire is playing out, and her thoughts on the protests that have drawn attention to the conflict.   In the first half of the show, we discuss the political developments over the last year that have led to the outcomes we continued to see in Gaza. We discuss the strategies deployed by voters to compel the government to take the war in Gaza seriously, and reflect on things that worked and things that didn’t.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne Yatim joins us to discuss the updates coming from Gaza and to give her insights on how the 2024 presidential election has shaped the war, how the ceasefire is playing out, and her thoughts on the protests that have drawn attention to the conflict.   In the second half of the show, we discuss the ceasefire in place in Gaza and the subsequent violations, the protests that took place over the past two years, and shared some optimism about the future of Gaza and the West Bank.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our guest this week is Knowa De Baraso… one of the youngest faces of the Democratic Party, one of the sharpest minds covering politics, and one of the rising stars in the podcasting space In the second half of the show, we have a conversation with Knowa De Baraso about the future of liberal politics and the places that young people occupy in the political equation.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our guest this week is Knowa De Baraso… one of the youngest faces of the Democratic Party, one of the sharpest minds covering politics, and one of the rising stars in the podcasting space In the first half of the show, we discuss the leaked chat messages from young Republican leadership across the country and make connections to historical leaks that have also given insight in to the racist, toxic culture that is often very pronounced in this country’s political right.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our guests this week come from Fanbase.com! Isaac Hayes III – Entrepreneur, music producer, and son of soul legend Isaac Hayes. He has raised over $22M through equity crowdfunding, making Fanbase one of the largest Black-founded crowdfunding campaigns in history. Tamisha Harris – Veteran TV news producer with an insider view of how stories are shaped and suppressed. She brings a powerful call to action for Black media to protect their narratives and audiences. We discuss the role that social media plays in the division of this country…how content creators have key positions in shaping public opinion, and how Black-owned media ensures that Black perspectives are properly platformed.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stacey Abrams joins us this week to discuss strategies for reclaiming political representation, diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and our first amendment protections. Find more at BINNews.com!Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/civiccipher?utm_source=searchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.