A Couple Thinks Podcast

Aaron was out of town for most of the past week so we didn’t record a new episode. So, this is a reprise our most downloaded episode; it is from June 2025 called “Be A Helper; Find the Good”. We hope you enjoy it. We will have a new episode in your feed next week so you can hear about Aaron’s travels, amongst other things!In this episode of A Couple Thinks, we’re doing two things: breaking down how to take meaningful local action, even if politics feels like too much, and finding the good news that helps balance out the doom-scroll.Aaron kicks things off with a challenge: If you’re someone with the privilege and comfort to be politically visible, get out there. Join a protest. Write to your representatives. But if politics feels too risky or heavy right now … there are still so many ways to “do something.”We talk about volunteering at food banks, helping out at local events, supporting small businesses, and even joining community organizations like Rotary or your local Chamber of Commerce. These non-political acts of service build community resilience and personal connection.Lisa shares a few ways to dig deeper into community support systems, from Mutual Aid networks to city-led volunteer opportunities.In the second half of the episode, we talk about finding balance. Lisa shares some of her favorite places for positive news—from “Under the Desk News” to the Good News Network—and her commitment to a media diet that includes plenty to celebrate, not just outrage.In our Joyful Moments segment, we celebrate last June’s small wins—from window screen repairs to backyard s’mores. We both rhapsodize about the power of the s’more to bring joy (even the extra-gooey, messy kind). Aaron shares the power of crossword puzzles and finding satisfaction in something as tactile as a sharp pencil and a clever clue.Links mentioned in this episode:* Under the Desk News on Instagram Under the Desk News (on Substack)* Good News Network* Heather Cox Richardson Letters from an American (on Substack)* Joyce Vance Civil Discourse (on Substack)* Preet Bharara: Stay Tuned Podcast and Stay Tuned with Preet (on Substack)* Tim Miller: The Bulwark Podcast and Tim Miller (on Substack)* Democracy Docket Democracy Docket (on Substack)* Mobilize for No Kings Day - June 14* Postcards to Voters* Five Calls App Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This week’s episode is a quick one. We touch on two things that are very much on our minds right now: the recent California gubernatorial debate and the upcoming May Day actions.On the debate front, our big takeaway is… cautiously reassuring. If any of the Democratic candidates on that stage becomes governor, we’ll be okay. There wasn’t a single breakout moment that reshaped the race, but there also weren’t any major missteps. That said, the structure of California’s open primary system still leaves us a little uneasy. With multiple strong candidates, there’s always the risk of splitting the vote in a way that complicates the outcome. So while we’d love to simply vote our hearts, we will keep an eye on the polling as we approach late May and need to make our decision.From there, we shift to May Day—a day that’s observed in nearly all countries as International Workers’ Day, but notably not in the United States. We dig a bit into the history of how that happened (hint: it involves labor uprisings and some intentional distancing), and talk about why this year feels especially significant.The call to action around May Day is simple, but not necessarily easy:no work, no school, no spending.For many people, participating fully in that may not be realistic—and that’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s participation. Whether that means attending a local event, skipping non-essential spending, or just being more intentional about supporting small, local businesses, there are ways to show up that fit your life.We also share a few practical reminders:* Check your voter registration and know your primary date* Look into local events (Mobilize.us or a quick Google search can help)* Keep making those small, consistent actions that add up over timeAnd of course, we wrap with our joyful moments, because even in the middle of all this, we’re still finding ways to move our bodies, enjoy community events, and (in Lisa’s case) look forward to some very specific foods while Aaron is out of town.It’s a mix of civic reality and everyday life, per usual.🎧 Give it a listen and let us know what you think:And as always, you can reach us at [email protected] or take our listener survey at survey.acouplethinks.com. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

It’s been one of those weeks where the headlines feel less like isolated incidents and more like a pattern you can’t ignore. In this episode, we sit with that discomfort—talking through the latest examples of powerful men facing consequences (finally), and the deeper systems that allowed their behavior to persist in the first place.We get into the frustration of “open secrets,” the power dynamics that keep people silent, and the cultural reflex to protect men’s reputations over women’s experiences. Aaron brings in a perspective on what responsibility looks like among men themselves, not just privately disagreeing with bad behavior, but actively calling it out. Because if the culture is going to shift, men need to step up and take action.And because we’re us, we don’t stay in the heaviness the whole time. We also share a genuinely joyful counterpoint: a moment of lightness and humanity from two men, Barack Obama and Zohran Mamdani, that reminded us that masculinity can be playful, present, and deeply human.We wrap, as always, with a few ways to take action this week (especially for Californians following the gubernatorial race), and our “joyful moments” segment—because even in weeks like this, there are still small, meaningful bright spots.If you’re feeling frustrated, angry, or just trying to make sense of it all, this one’s for you.👉 Give it a listen, and let us know what resonated: [email protected]👉 And if you haven’t yet, we’d love your thoughts here: survey.acouplethinks.com Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This week, we’re circling back to something we talked about in early March: the California governor’s race — and specifically, the very unique (and slightly chaotic) jungle primary system we use here.A lot has changed since our last conversation. And with ballots hitting mailboxes in early May, the timeline is getting tight. So what’s different now?When we last talked, the field was wide open. No clear frontrunner. Lots of possibilities.Now?There’s been a major shake-up — including serious allegations against Eric Swalwell that have effectively taken him out of serious consideration.Which brings us right back to the core concern we raised before:👉 If Democratic voters don’t coalesce, we could end up with two Republicans in the general election.And in a state like California, that’s… ridiculous? appalling? scary?The reality of the jungle primaryIn a traditional primary, you can vote your heart.In this system?You have to vote strategically.Because it’s not about picking your favorite candidate in a vacuum — it’s about making sure the right candidates even make it to November.So we walk through a simple, practical rubric:* Who meets this moment?* Who has real governing experience?* Who understands California?* And yes — who can actually win?It’s not always a comfortable way to think about voting.But that is our current reality.Where we landedAfter looking at the field we landed on one candidate who checks the most boxes right now and seems to be picking up momentum (polling will tell for sure):This candidate brings decades of experience at both the state and federal level, has already taken on a Trump administration as California’s Attorney General and if you don’t know already, we reveal their name in the episode, eventually.Could this shift as polling evolves? Possibly.And we talk about that too.What you can doIf you’re in California:* Do your own research* Keep an eye on polling as ballots arrive* Make a deliberate, informed choiceIf you’re not:* Pay attention to your own local races* Stay engaged where you are* And remember — systems matter, not just candidatesAnd yes… we end with joyBecause even in the middle of all this:* Neighborhood connections are growing* Home projects are moving forward* Science is still doing incredible thingsAnd sometimes, that’s enough to keep you going.🎧 Listen to the full episode for the full breakdown (and a few classic Aaron jokes along the way).And as always:* Email us: [email protected]* Take the survey: survey.acouplethinks.comWe’d love to hear what you’re thinking. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This week’s episode is a bit of a mixed bag. It’s been a few weeks since we last recorded, and a lot has happened—some frustrating, some deeply concerning, and some… actually encouraging.And honestly? That mix feels like the moment we’re in.We start with a conversation about what Aaron calls “selfish voters.” The idea that many people only engage politically when something affects them directly—gas prices, economic shifts, or immediate personal impact.On one hand, that’s frustrating.On the other hand… it may also be how change starts.And right now, we’re seeing signs of that shift.🚶‍♀️ More People Showing UpOne of the most encouraging signals: turnout.Recent protests—including No Kings Day—drew millions of people nationwide, many of them first-time participants.That matters.Not just because of the protest itself, but because it suggests something deeper:* People are paying attention* People are getting involved* And importantly—people are likely to voteIt’s not just noise. It’s activation.🗳️ Early Political SignalsWe’re also seeing movement in elections—especially at the local and state level:* Seats flipping* New candidates stepping in* Incumbents choosing not to runNone of this guarantees anything for November. But it does suggest momentum is building in ways that aren’t always visible in national headlines.⚖️ The Courts (Still) MatterThere’s also been a string of court rulings pushing back in meaningful ways—on issues ranging from free speech to executive overreach.The process is slow. Sometimes painfully slow.But it’s also one of the few places where the system is still functioning as intended.🌍 The Hard StuffWe also talk about the ongoing war involving Iran—something that feels both urgent and, at the same time, frustratingly out of our control.It’s heavy. It’s complicated. And like many of you, we’re grappling with what it means to stay informed without feeling completely powerless.🧭 What You Can DoEven in a moment like this, there are still tangible ways to stay engaged:* Double-check your voter registration* Make calls through tools like 5calls.org* Support local businesses* Get involved in small but meaningful waysBecause while we can’t control everything, we’re not powerless either.✨ And Yes—Joyful MomentsWe close, as always, with our joyful moments:* A family bar mitzvah in LA* Hosting loved ones* Huge local turnout for No Kings Day* And even trying out a new Tai Chi class here in BerkeleyBecause even in complicated times, joy isn’t frivolous—it’s necessary.If this resonates, we’d love for you to listen to the full episode.And as always, you can reach us at [email protected] or share your thoughts at survey.acouplethinks.com.Thanks for being here with us. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

Happy week after No Kings Day #3!Travel, family visits, protests, and holiday prep held our focus this week- plus Lisa is fighting a rough cold. So, we’re bringing back a previous episode in which we discuss framing and frameworks through which folks see the world and how that impacts our decision-making. Do you lean towards the hierarchical or solidarity model? Or the Strict Father vs. Nurturing Parent model? Listen in (again, or for the first time) for more details about these framework ideas and the impact of these points of view on our values and decision-making. We wish you a happy & meaningful holiday season as well!Resources/Links:Instagram post by Elad NehoraiThe Frameworks Institute (IG @frameworksinstitute)The King, the Mice and the Cheese, I couldn’t find it on Bookshop.org so this is an Amazon Affiliate link.Original October 28th Episode Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

We recorded this as a kind of pep talk for this coming Saturday’s No Kings Day (on March 28). It’s your reminder that showing up always matters.Momentum is building. Not just from one event to the next, but from everything happening around us. The courts, the protests, the pushback—it all adds up. And while it can feel exhausting (because it is), it can also be energizing to stand shoulder to shoulder with others who care.There are so many ways in:* Big marches and smaller gatherings* Standing protests or moving ones* Local events across neighborhoods and citiesYou don’t have to do it one specific way. You just have to do what you can.And if showing up physically isn’t possible right now, there are still other ways that count too:* Support No Kings partner organizations* Help others prepare and make signs* Spread the wordWhat matters is participation.We talk about the research about resistance to authoritarian regimes often: when enough people engage—around 3.5% of the population—real change becomes possible. In a country as spread out as ours, that doesn’t happen in one place. It happens everywhere, all at once.That’s the moment we’re building toward.So consider this your invitation. Or your nudge. Or your rallying cry.Bring your friends.Bring your voice.Bring a little joy with you, too.And if you need ideas for signs, chants, or just a reminder of why this matters—we’ve got you.👉 Listen to the full episode here and get ready for March 28:We’ll be back next week to share how it all unfolded.Until then—see you out there.photo credit: Santiago Mejia, San Francisco Chronicle. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

In this week’s episode of A Couple Thinks, we talk about something that’s been surprisingly energizing for us lately: hyperlocal organizing.Not giant movements.Not national organizations.Just neighbors — getting together.Recently, Lisa helped organize the first meeting of a new local “pod” here in Berkeley. The idea is simple: gather people who live near each other so they can share information, support one another, and take action together when it matters.About twenty people showed up for the first meeting at our local library branch. We had a great mix of ages and backgrounds. Some came looking for community and connection, others wanted protest buddies, and some were simply curious about what kinds of local actions they could plug into.What struck us most was how powerful geography can be as an organizing principle.Most activist groups form around interests. But when you organize by neighborhood, something different happens. You build relationships with people you might actually see at the grocery store, walking the dog, or around the block.And that creates a community rooted in trust and proximity.We also talked about how these pods can:* Help people attend protests or events together* Provide support and debriefing after intense actions* Share opportunities like petition drives or volunteer work* Strengthen neighborhood relationships that are useful during any kind of emergencyIn other words, it’s not just about politics. It’s also about knowing your neighbors and building real-world connections in a time when so much of life happens online.The takeaway from this episode is simple:If you want to build resilience and community, start small.Start with your block.Start with your zip code.Pods may be small, but they can be surprisingly empowering.We also share our usual list of things you can do this week to stay engaged — including checking your voter registration, preparing for the upcoming No Kings Day on March 28th, and supporting local businesses.* Find your local No Kings Day events here (including “Know Your Rights” and other prep topics* 5Calls.org * Postcards to VotersAnd of course, we close with our Joyful Moments, including a fantastic Jonah Kagen concert and a little overnight getaway in San Francisco.🎧 Listen to the full episode Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

The escalation of the U.S.–Israel war against Iran has made for a heavy and chaotic news cycle. Between breaking updates, speculation, and viral social media posts, it can be hard to know what’s real—and even harder to keep your sanity while trying to stay informed.In this week’s episode of A Couple Thinks, we talk about how to protect your peace without checking out completely.Aaron opens with a Vivian Green quote that captures the challenge of this moment:“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning how to dance in the rain.”We can’t pause our lives until things calm down. But we also don’t have to let the nonstop stream of information overwhelm us.We talk about practical ways we’re managing the news cycle right now, including:* Pausing before reacting to sensational social media posts* Relying on reputable news sources instead of viral clips* Turning off constant news notifications* Limiting how often we check the newsWe also discuss the balance between staying informed and taking action, including contacting elected officials, participating in protests, and preparing for upcoming elections.Resources for taking action:* 5calls.org (scripts for calling your electeds)* Postcards to Voters (addresses and scripts for sending postcards)* Indivisible (protests and local actions)* Vote411.org (voting resources)* League of Women Voters (find your local chapter to help register voters)And as always, we end the episode with our Joyful Moments—this week featuring homemade hamantaschen for Purim, spring flowers blooming around Berkeley, and the welcome return of longer evening walks.Because even in difficult times, finding moments of joy is part of how we keep going.🎧 Listen to the full episode wherever you find your podcasts (or here on Substack!) Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

Before we dove into California politics this week, we acknowledged something much bigger: the beginning of the U.S.–Israel war against the Iranian regime.It’s possible to hold more than one truth at the same time. You can oppose war and still be glad that the Iranian people are one tyrant further away from authoritarian rule. The world is complicated right now. And speaking of complicated…This week’s episode focuses on the California governor’s race — and specifically, the unintended consequences of our state’s Top Two Open Primary system.Back in 2011, California adopted a system where all candidates appear on the same primary ballot (for many, but not all elected positions), and the top two vote-getters advance to the general election, regardless of party. At the time, most people assumed we might occasionally see two Democrats advance in our heavily blue state.What we didn’t anticipate? A scenario where nine Democrats split the vote while two Republicans consolidate theirs — making it possible that two Republicans could end up on the November ballot.That possibility isn’t just theoretical. It’s being modeled at roughly a 10–15% likelihood right now.And that’s where things get concerning.Because this isn’t only about who becomes governor. It’s about turnout. If Democratic voters feel shut out of the top race in November, some may stay home. Meanwhile, energized Republican voters could turn out in higher numbers. That shift could ripple down-ballot and affect competitive congressional races — with national consequences.So what do we do with that information?In this episode, we talk through:* The crowded Democratic field.* The role of name recognition versus executive experience.* The strengths and weaknesses of candidates like Katie Porter and Eric Swalwell.* The quieter resumes of candidates like Betty Yee, Xavier Becerra, and former mayors.* The influence of money and media visibility.* And the tension between idealism and pragmatism.Should lower-polling candidates step aside to consolidate support?Should voters rally early around a viable front-runner?Or should we ignore polling and back the person we believe would govern best?There are no easy answers.What we do know is this: we have time before the June primary. And we, as voters, aren’t powerless. We can research. We can discuss. We can think strategically.And in the meantime, there are concrete actions we can take:* Double-check your voter registration.* Visit 5calls.org to make targeted calls.* Mark March 28th on your calendar for the next No Kings Day protest.* Send postcards in key judicial races.* Shop small and local when you can.Democracy isn’t just about election day. It’s about showing up consistently.We close, as always, with joyful moments — including beautiful February weather, upcoming visits to New York, and of course… Tucci the cat, who continues to be the most reliable source of delight in our household.If you care about California’s future — and how state-level politics shapes national outcomes — this is an episode you won’t want to miss.🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.📩 Email us at [email protected]📝 Take our listener survey at survey.acouplethinks.comTucci is taking this Governor’s race very seriously… Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

Some weeks feel like one big headline.This one felt like ten.In this episode of A Couple Thinks, we unpack a week that revealed multiple fissures inside the MAGA coalition.The Supreme Court delivered a 6–3 ruling limiting Trump’s use of emergency powers for tariffs—an unusually clear moment of institutional guardrails holding. Trump quickly pivoted, adjusting percentages and leaning on temporary authority, leaving economic uncertainty in his wake.Meanwhile:* New information but still few consequences around the Epstein files continues to frustrate factions that expected sweeping accountability.* “Make America Healthy Again” voters are upset over executive action tied to Roundup production.* America First isolationists are uneasy about possible military escalation with Iran.* Attempts to suppress media moments—like Stephen Colbert’s interview controversy—only amplified attention online.We also talk about the partial shutdown, Mitch McConnell’s maneuvering on the SAVE Act, and whether Democrats will hold firm on issues like masked ICE enforcement.And because we don’t only live in politics, we end with joy: walking to the Cal Women’s Basketball game in Berkeley, soaking up the energy, and celebrating Bay Area skater Alysa Liu (who now has free ice cream for life at Fenton’s—well deserved).If you’re feeling the fault lines shifting, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts.📬 Email us at [email protected]📝 Take our survey at survey.acouplethinks.com Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This week we’re talking about elections and voting rights because a lot is swirling right now.We focused mainly on the proposed SAVE Act (Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act), which would require proof of citizenship at registration and when voting, including for mail-in ballots. It would also take effect immediately.That “immediately” part matters.States would need to create systems to process documentation, verify identity, and protect sensitive information — all while running elections. Election workers could even face personal liability if procedures aren’t followed exactly right. That’s not a small administrative tweak. That’s a major overhaul midstream.And here’s the bigger question: what problem are we solving?Actual voter fraud is extraordinarily rare. Decades of data show minuscule numbers of fraudulent votes, nowhere near enough to alter outcomes. So when new requirements make voting more expensive, more complicated, or more time-consuming, the burden falls hardest on people without easy access to documents, time off work, or extra funds.Security matters. Access matters too.If your vote truly didn’t matter, there wouldn’t be so much effort spent trying to limit it.So what can you do?✔️ Check your voter registration.✔️ Look at FiveCalls.org for current issues to weigh in on.✔️ Pay attention to town halls while members of Congress are home.✔️ Stay informed — calmly and factually.And yes, we also shared some joy this week: a birthday dinner with carrot cake and a small, hilarious live theater performance with Rotary friends. Community and civic engagement aren’t opposites. They fuel each other.🎧 If you’d like the full conversation, including our breakdown of Real ID, proof of citizenship, and what the Constitution says about poll taxes, listen to this week’s episode.Thanks for thinking with us.p.s. here’s the pic of Tucci participating in our podcast recording session: Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This week on A Couple Thinks, we found ourselves talking about something that feels both personal and civic: the unraveling of one of America’s most important newspapers.Lisa was in her last two years of high school in the DC suburbs in the late ’70s, when the Washington Post was the local paper and a powerhouse investigative paper. It covered local school boards and sports scores alongside national politics, and it still carried the gravitas of its Watergate reporting. The Post showed what was possible when local knowledge, national power, and serious investigative journalism lived under the same roof.Fast forward to the present, and that legacy feels painfully fragile.In this episode, we talk through why the Post’s recent layoffs, leadership failures, and editorial decisions feel like more than just internal drama. When subscriptions were canceled after the paper pulled its presidential endorsement and declined to run Ann Telnaes’ cartoon, it wasn’t about partisan loyalty, it was about trust. And last week when the paper began shedding reporters, editors, and entire sections, the cost wasn’t just financial. It was civic.Aaron reflects on reporting that only fairly recently set the standard with innovative timelines, visual explainers, and deeply sourced investigations like the January 6th reconstruction. We also discuss why losing international reporters weakens local and national coverage alike, and why stories like Watergate—originally a local break-in—might never surface without strong metro reporting.We compare the Post’s decline to institutions like the New York Times, and to magazines like The Atlantic. And yes, we wrestle with the uncomfortable reality of billionaire ownership, including Jeff Bezos’s role and the unanswered questions about power, pressure, and responsibility.Still, this episode isn’t just a post-mortem. It’s a reminder.A free press isn’t a luxury. It’s infrastructure.Our founders understood that. The First Amendment exists for a reason. And in a moment when newspapers are folding, local reporting is vanishing, and public trust is being actively undermined, supporting serious journalism may be one of the most meaningful acts available to us.We also share concrete actions you can take this week, from calling your representatives using Five Calls, to supporting pro-democracy efforts, to voting with your wallet by subscribing to outlets doing the hard, unglamorous work of truth-finding. And, as always, we close with joyful moments—because connection, beauty, and community are part of resistance too.🎧 Listen to the full episode of A Couple Thinks wherever you get your podcasts.If this conversation resonates, share it, rate the show, or send us a note at [email protected]. You can also help shape future episodes by filling out our listener survey at survey.acouplethinks.com.Reliable journalism doesn’t survive on vibes alone. It survives because people decide it matters.And we think it still does.p.s. Here are some of the articles and “love letters” to the Washington Post that we used as source materials:The Murder of the Washington Post by Ashley ParkerAn Elegy for My Washington Post by Carlos Lozada‘Washington Post’ CEO departs after going AWOL during massive job cuts by David Folkenflik Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This week on A Couple Thinks, we did something both sobering and clarifying: we went through our Constitution’s amendments.And then we asked a simple but unsettling question: Which of these constitutional protections are being violated right now?As it turns out… more than you might want to sit with all at once.In this episode, we walk through several amendments, including the First, Second, Fourth, Fifth, Tenth, and Fourteenth, and talk plainly about how they’re being ignored, twisted, or outright trampled by the current federal government, particularly through the actions of ICE, the Department of Justice, and Homeland Security. (Shout out to this article from the Constitutional Accountability Center for laying it all out so clearly.)We talk about:* The erosion of free speech, free press, and peaceful assembly* Unreasonable searches and seizures, including armed home invasions without warrants* The gutting of due process* Federal overreach into state sovereignty* And the parallels between today’s actions and the original intent of the Fourteenth Amendment, which was designed to protect people from state-sanctioned violence and racial terrorOne of the most striking things about this conversation was seeing all of these violations lined up together. We often hear about attacks on a right — the First Amendment here, the Fourth Amendment there — but stepping back and viewing the pattern makes it much harder to dismiss what’s happening as isolated incidents or bureaucratic mistakes.This is not about policy disagreements.This is about whether constitutional rights still mean what they say.We also talk about what to do with this information. Because as bleak as this moment can feel, it is not hopeless and it is not over.In the latter part of the episode, we share concrete actions:* Calls you can make right now using the Five Calls app* Upcoming protests, including the next No Kings Day on March 28th* Ways to support local and state-level efforts that are still making real progress, including Postcards to Voters* and more!As always, we end with Joyful Moments, because resistance without repair isn’t sustainable, and joy itself is part of how we keep going. Here’s the link to Aaron’s Radio Show if you want to listen to the new 80s episodes on Tuesdays at noon pacific time!🎧 Listen to the full episode If this conversation resonates with you — or unsettles you — we hope you’ll listen, share it, and talk about it with the people in your life.You can also reach us anytime at [email protected], and our listener survey is open at survey.acouplethinks.com.We’re glad you’re here. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This week’s episode is different.Usually, we come to the microphone with an outline and some scripting to help us make sense of the moment we’re living in. But on Saturday, January 24th, that didn’t feel possible or honest.We were still processing the news out of Minneapolis: another protester killed by ICE agents. As the day went on, more videos surfaced. More angles. More details. And instead of clarity, what emerged was something far more disturbing: a widening gap between what federal officials were saying and what we could see with our own eyes.In this episode, we talk through that shock in real time.We talk about the speed at which official narratives are now deployed, often before facts are verified, and these days even in direct contradiction to video evidence. We talk about how corrosive that is, not just to public trust, but to the idea that government actors should be accountable to the truth at all. We also name the feeling many of us are sitting with: not just anger or grief, but overwhelm. We wrestle with something we’ve returned to again and again on this podcast: how to stay informed without completely losing your peace.Lisa shares the tension between relying on responsible journalism, where verification takes time, and the emotional pull of social media, where information (and misinformation) moves instantly. Aaron reflects on the deeper, meta-level damage caused when federal officials appear to lie without consequence, and what that does to any remaining faith in institutions. And yet, as heavy as this episode is, we look for the light.As always, we talk about action—practical ways to stay engaged without burning out. We talk about calling representatives, using tools like Five Calls, supporting campaigns with postcards to voters, and preparing for the protests and primaries ahead with organizations like Indivisible (https://indivisible.org/)Finally, we make room for joy. Not as denial. Not as distraction. But as something essential. A haircut. A basketball game. A cat who insists on being adored. Small, human moments that remind us why staying connected, to each other and to this work, still matters.This is a raw episode. A seat-of-the-pants conversation. No outline. No easy answers. Just two people trying to process a moment that feels both unbearable and unavoidable.🎧 Listen to this week’s episode of A Couple Thinks wherever you get your podcasts.If this conversation resonates, consider sharing it with someone who’s also trying to make sense of this moment—and finding their way from anger to action, one step at a time. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This week on A Couple Thinks, we spent some time sitting with a question that’s been hovering in the background for a while now: what is going to happen between now and the post-Trump era?Our conversation was sparked by a New York Times opinion piece by conservative column by Ross Douthat titled “Trump’s Second Term Has Ended the Conservative Era.” This particular piece caught our attention because Lisa finished the entire piece, which rarely happens with this particular writer.Douthat uses a real-estate metaphor to frame Trump as a developer who didn’t renovate conservatism so much as demolish it—tearing down long-standing pillars like limited government, Reagan-era foreign policy, religious moralism, and institutional trust. What’s being erected in its place, he argues, is unfinished, unstable, and deeply idiosyncratic to Trump himself: loud, gaudy, and built on weak foundations.What made the piece especially striking wasn’t just the criticism of Trump, it was also the acknowledgment, from a conservative writer, that there may not be a coherent “after” yet. The factions circling Trumpism don’t share the same goals, policies, or even worldview. Trump himself embodies contradiction: isolationist rhetoric paired with aggressive foreign action; economic nationalism mixed with chaos; cultural grievance without a governing philosophy.In our conversation, we zoomed out from the essay itself to talk about what this moment feels like to live through. That sense that we’re still in the “worse before it gets better” phase. That unsettling realization that decline doesn’t always arrive as a single event—it can look like a long stretch of not-good things, punctuated by flare-ups of cruelty, vindictiveness, and institutional stress.We also talked about something that feels newly important: even conservative voices are starting to speak more plainly about Trump’s legacy. Less hedging. Less “I don’t like him, but…” More acknowledgment that real damage has been done to norms, to institutions, and to the country’s credibility at home and abroad.From there, the conversation widened again. When Trump is eventually gone, what happens to the people, systems, and incentives that enabled him? What does accountability look like? What does repair look like—both institutionally and socially? How do communities coexist after years of open bigotry, public flags, hats, and declarations that can’t simply be tucked away again?We didn’t pretend to have answers. But we did talk about what now looks like: resistance, protest, disruption, participation in primaries, pressure on elected officials, and refusing to disengage just because the process feels long and exhausting.As always, we closed with actions you can take this week—and with our joyful moments, because holding onto joy is not frivolous. It’s part of staying human while we push back.🎧 Listen to the full episode to hear the entire conversation👉 Listen wherever you get your podcasts, or head to acouplethinks.com to stream the episode.And as always, you can reach us at [email protected] with questions, ideas, or future episode suggestions—and our survey is open at survey.acouplethinks.com.We’re still in the middle of it. But we’re not just watching. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

It’s been a heavy start to the year.Between the destabilization of Venezuela and the murder of Renee Nicole Goode in Minneapolis, the cruelty and chaos of this moment feels sharper, more frightening, and more relentless than many of us expected. In this week’s episode, we talk honestly about that weight—about the despair, anger, and helplessness that can creep in when it feels like we’re watching harm unfold in real time.We also talk about something just as important: where power actually lives right now, and what that means for how we respond.While the presidency and the Supreme Court feel largely locked in, Congress remains a critical and underused lever. Laws can be written. Oversight can happen. Accountability is still possible. And yet, too often, it feels like members of Congress are frozen by fear, political calculation, or sheer unwillingness to challenge this administration. That frustration is real.At the same time, we reflect on signs that we are not alone—and that resistance is not just theoretical. From the rapid, nationwide turnout for ICE Out for Good protests to court rulings that have slowed or blocked some of the administration’s cruelest actions, there are cracks in the façade. People are paying attention. Infrastructure exists. Momentum is building rather than fading.We also talk about the long view: the 11 months between now and the midterms. How do we push back now while also preparing for November? How do we sustain ourselves emotionally and politically when the pace of harm feels faster than the pace of accountability?As always, we share concrete actions you can take, like calling your representatives, using tools like Five Calls, staying connected to protest and postcard efforts, and inviting others into the work by making your own actions visible. And, because survival matters too, we close with joyful moments that reminded us why staying human, curious, and connected is part of resistance.This is not an easy episode, but we needed to talk through the downs and the ups. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or unsure how to keep going without burning out, we hope this conversation helps you feel a little less alone.🎧 Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcastsAnd if you have thoughts, ideas, or questions, reach us at [email protected] or fill out our ongoing survey at survey.acouplethinks.com.We’re in this together—and we’re not done yet. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

Happy New Year.In our first episode of the year, we decided to do something a little different: we zoomed out and asked the question, “What’s our political action plan for the whole year?”Because let’s be honest: this moment isn’t about one phone call, one protest, or one election. It’s about endurance. It’s about showing up consistently, in ways that are sustainable, meaningful, and aligned with our values.We begin the episode by acknowledging the deeply troubling and illegal actions taken by the Trump administration in Venezuela. Whatever one thinks of Nicolás Maduro as a leader, unilateral military action without congressional approval sets a dangerous precedent—one that undermines international law, weakens democratic norms, and erodes any moral authority the U.S. claims on the world stage. We reference Heather Cox Richardson and her recent video that highlights these concerns. That reality is sobering, and it makes the need for civic engagement feel even more urgent.From there, we walk through how we’re thinking about political action quarter by quarter:* January–March: calling members of Congress, demanding accountability, reinforcing our identity as voters, and responding quickly to unfolding events* April–June: protest season, voter registration, canvassing, and finding ways to get involved that stretch us just enough* July–September: shifting into pre-election mode, supporting turnout efforts, and helping where the margins are tight* October–December: election protection, ballot curing, and—hopefully—celebration and repair after months of sustained effortA big theme of A Couple Thinks has been and continues to be: doing something is better than doing nothing. Not everyone needs to do the same thing. Some people will make phone calls. Others will canvas. Some will travel. Some will help behind the scenes. The point isn’t perfection, it’s participation and progress.Here are some of the resources to use to help you participate:* 5Calls.org for scripts and phone numbers to call your electeds. * Postcards to Voters for content and addresses to mail to voters around the countryWe also talk about how to frame these conversations with elected officials in a way that transcends party labels. This isn’t about Democrat versus Republican. It’s about the Constitution, the rule of law, and the basic guardrails of democracy.And because this is A Couple Thinks, we close, as always, with joyful moments—including our anniversary getaway to Santa Cruz, a reminder that rest, connection, and beauty aren’t distractions from the work. They’re what make the long haul possible.🎧 Listen to the full episode for a practical, honest, and hopeful conversation about how to plan your political action for the year ahead—and how to stay engaged without burning out.If you want to share how you’re planning to show up this year, or if you’re looking for ideas that fit your comfort level and capacity, we’d love to hear from you. You can email us at [email protected] or take our listener survey at survey.acouplethinks.com.We’re in this together. Let’s plan accordingly. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This episode is not safe for work—or for young ears—because sometimes polite language just doesn’t cut it.In this week’s episode of A Couple Thinks, we unpack an essay, posted in August, by John Pavlovitz, that caught our attention: the idea of a F*ck It List! It’s a rethinking of the classic bucket list for a moment when waiting for things to “settle down” no longer makes sense.The core idea is simple but unsettling: pretending that normal is just around the corner is keeping many of us quiet, cautious, and stuck. Instead of waiting to speak up, live fully, or pursue what brings us joy, Pavlovitz argues it may be time to stop sacrificing our integrity, voice, and energy to preserve systems and relationships that are actively harming people.In the episode, we explore three big areas where “f*ck it” might apply:* Relationships – What do we do with people in our lives who repeatedly supported Trump and the ensuing harm caused by him? Is disengaging a moral failure—or an act of self-preservation?* Voice & authenticity – How much have we edited ourselves to avoid conflict, and what has that silence actually cost us?* Joy & deferred dreams – Trips not taken, projects postponed, passions shelved “until things get better”—what if that time never comes?We wrestle honestly with the tension between compassion and boundaries, strategic patience and moral clarity, and the reality that our time and energy are finite. As always, we also share concrete actions you can take right now—and end with our joyful moments, because joy itself is a form of resistance.🎧 Listen to the full episode to hear the full conversation, our disagreements, our laughter, and where we ultimately land. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

We’ve been producing this podcast for a year now, and we wanted to take a moment to reflect back on our first episode that we recorded on Sunday, December 8, 2024. It was released on January 7 of this year, 2025.The episode was titled “Keeping Your Peace”, and we were reminding listeners – and each other – how important it was to not let the news overwhelm us, and that a calm and organized mind is so much more powerful than a frightened and paralyzed one.Before we reprise that episode, we give a quick update of the recommendations that we gave for keeping your peace and how we have fared with them. Spoiler (it’s been mostly successful!)Take a listen! Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

Woo woo! 🎉 This week marks Episode 50 of A Couple Thinks—50 straight Tuesdays in your ears. For our “golden episode,” we wanted to share 50 good things from 2025… and while we didn’t quite get to 50, we do have a clear reminder that momentum is real, people are showing up, and good news exists—even when the headlines try to convince you otherwise.We decided to group our bright spots into a few themes:1) Resistance and protest that keeps buildingOne of the most heartening things this year has been watching protest movements stack—each action building on the last.We also highlight something that matters a lot right now: state-level pushback—coalitions and policies that preserve public health and protect communities even when federal leadership is doing the opposite.And one of the standout moments: Indiana’s Republican State Senate voting “no” on gerrymandering—despite pressure from Trump-world. When we see principled resistance (even from people we often disagree with), it reminds us what a functioning democracy could look like.2) Election wins (and signs of a shifting Democratic future)We’re not pretending elections solve everything. But this year gave us a lot of reasons to stay engaged.\Democrats flipped a meaningful share of GOP-held state legislative seats—and several high-profile races suggest voters want something different.We also talk about Zohran Mamdani’s win in NYC and what it might signal—not just as a personality or a single city result, but as a kind of “template” for a newer coalition and a clearer break from politics-as-usual.3) GOP weirdness (and why we’re cautiously enjoying it)Is it complicated to feel a little joy when chaos is hurting real people? Yes. We talk about that tension.But we also name what we’re seeing: dysfunction and infighting can be a sign that the grip is slipping.We get into the details of why Trump’s power is looking weaker earlier than many expected4) A few “good news” reminders you might’ve missedWe share a quick “good science / good world” punch list—because a lot of progress doesn’t make the front page.We talk about encouraging trends like:* The ozone layer healing faster than expected* Extreme poverty declining dramatically over the past few decades* Big leaps in gene therapy* Renewables getting cheaper and expanding—even in red states* Child mortality falling since 1990None of this erases what’s hard. But it does matter. It’s evidence that collective action, policy, science, and persistence can move the needle.5) What we’re doing this week (and how you can join us)If you’ve been asking yourself, “Okay, but what do I do with all this?” — we’ve got you.This week’s actions:* Postcards to voters: There’s an Iowa State Legislature special election on December 30, and Lisa’s writing postcards to help protect a key seat.* Shop small & local when you can (especially during the holidays)* Call your senators: Indivisible is encouraging calls pushing for new Senate leadership (re: Schumer)* And: tell us what’s on your mind—email us at [email protected] or take the listener survey at survey.acouplethinks.comJoyful Moments: birthdays, Hanukkah, and crunchy latkesWe close with joy (as always).This week’s highlights:* Celebrating Aaron’s mom’s 88th birthday with a family dinner* Hanukkah begins—latkes are happening (crispy ones… not the soft pancake kind)* And Aaron’s ongoing project: decluttering the office/studio to make space for more creative work (and yes, it sends a lot of junk downstairs in the process)Because as we head toward the solstice—the season of bringing light into darkness—we’re trying to do that in small ways that actually count.🎧 Listen to Episode 50If you need a little hope-with-receipts (plus a woo woo, plus a latke description), go listen to the full episode now—and then hit reply and tell us: what’s one “good thing” you’re holding onto from this [email protected] you next Tuesday for episode 51. ❤️ Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

Last week brought one of those quietly important election nights that doesn’t change who controls Congress, but does change how we read the map.In this week’s episode of A Couple Thinks, we dig into the Tennessee Congressional District 7 special election and why we’re calling it “when a loss is a win.”👉 Listen to this week’s episode!When a 21-point loss becomes a 9-point “win”In the 2024 election, the Republican in Tennessee’s 7th District won by 21 points.This time? The Republican still won, but the margin was cut to just 9 points.On paper, it’s still a loss. But in a heavily gerrymandered district where Nashville voters have been sliced and diced to dilute their power, narrowing the gap that much is a big deal.That 12-point swing translates into:* National attention and new money flowing into these types of races* Volunteers sharpening their “postcard muscles” and canvassing chops* Republicans getting just nervous enough to alter their behavior—both on the campaign trail and hopefully, even in how they govern as Trump’s power declines.As budget deadlines loom, health insurance costs spike, and primaries creep closer, even “safe” Republicans may start behaving a little differently if they feel the ground shifting under their feet.Special elections as smoke signalsWe also take a look back at 2017, the year after Trump’s first election to see if there are patterns from that round. There were six House special elections that year. Every one of them was held by the party that already had the seat, but the margins tightened in ways that foreshadowed the 2018 blue wave, when Democrats gained 40 seats and ended up with a 235–199 majority.The pattern feels familiar:* Weird off-year specials* “Safe” seats that suddenly don’t look quite as safe* Margins shrinking in ways that don’t make headlines but absolutely shape strategyGerrymanders, independents, and the post-Trump eraWe also talk about how gerrymandering can backfire.Every time a map is redrawn to cram more voters of one party into a “super safe” district, it necessarily weakens another district somewhere else. There’s some evidence that in places like Texas, Republicans may have overreached—moving voters around in ways that actually create new pickup opportunities, especially as some Latino and independent voters drift away from Trump.At the same time:* More Americans now identify as independents than as Democrats or Republicans.* Trump’s second term has turned dissatisfaction into something closer to a revolt for many voters—over his policies, his cabinet choices, and his disregard for the Constitution.* Candidates in both parties now have more space to say what they’re for, not just whether they’re “for” or “against” Trump.We talk about Zohran Mamdani’s win in New York City as a good example of a candidate running clearly for a set of policies: affordability, free buses, and more, while acknowledging that what plays in Queens won’t necessarily work in rural Tennessee. But the template of “I am for…” is portable.Primaries and staying in our laneWe also spend time on primaries and strategy. Short version of my advice:* In closed or semi-closed primaries, let the local electorate choose the candidate who fits their district. They know their own political terrain and what can actually win there.Meanwhile, here in California, our gubernatorial race is already crowded—multiple Democrats with statewide or congressional experience, plus Republicans looking to take advantage of a split field. We don’t have a clear “anointed one,” and there’s some nervousness about votes fracturing. But I’m cautiously optimistic there will be some pragmatic coalescing before we hit the top-two cutoff.So… what can we do this week?We always try to bring it back to concrete actions. For this week, we suggest:* Check out Swing Left’s new Ground Truth initiative.They’re launching a program on Tuesday, December 9th(!) focused on early, deep canvassing—knocking on doors, talking to voters now, and feeding that intel back to candidates after the primaries so they’re not flying blind.* Shop small and local during the holidays.Every dollar you spend at a local business strengthens the community ecosystem we’ll rely on in the years ahead.* Call your senators.If you share our frustration with Chuck Schumer’s leadership as Senate minority leader, you can let your senators know it’s time for a change.And as always, we’d love to hear from you:📧 [email protected]📝 Survey: survey.acouplethinks.comJoyful moments: Napa, Rotary, and “the podcast people”We close the episode, as we always do, with our joyful moments—because staying in the fight means making space for joy.This week’s joys included:* A low-key Thanksgiving weekend trip to Napa with our now-adult kids—Boone Fly Café, wandering downtown, and remembering that being together is its own kind of abundance.* Aaron’s Rotary Club holiday party, where someone introduced us as “the podcast people” (we’ll take it!) and where Aaron brought the house down singing Blue Christmas.* The slightly surreal feeling of approaching Episode 50—a mix of pride, gratitude, and “oh wow, now we have to do something special, don’t we?”If you need a little political context, a little strategy, and a little joy, this one’s for you.👉 Hit play on “When a Loss Is a Win” wherever you listen to podcasts!And if it resonates, forward this post to a friend who’s trying to stay engaged and sane in Trump Two. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

As we approach the one-year mark of A Couple Thinks, this week’s episode is a reflective one. We recorded our very first conversation on December 8th last year, before we even knew exactly what this project would become, and now here we are, 48 episodes later, talking more honestly (and more calmly!) about Trump’s second administration than either of us ever managed to do during the first.In this episode, we look back at what it’s meant to create a space where we can process the chaos without letting it take over our lives. Lisa talks about how the podcast has become a “container” that keeps her from getting as ragey or stressed each night, and how grounding it feels to approach Trump Two differently than Trump One. We also reflect on the surprisingly creative, joyful, and strategic resistance we’ve seen this year—from frog-costumed protest dancers in Portland, to Home Depot “buy-and-return” ice scraper actions, to Disney boycotts, to the dedicated voters who are showing up to make a difference.We also dig into the political shifts happening inside Congress and among GOP voters. We talk about reporting on Republican house members considering early resignations, the eye-popping number of House members who aren’t running for re-election next year, and the massive swings we saw in November—some over 15 or 20 points in districts Trump previously won. And we unpack the messy, faction-vs-faction GOP infighting that has opened the door to things like bipartisan discharge petitions—something so rare that Speaker Johnson has already seen more of them than the previous 30 years combined.We even get into the more subtle things: the anecdotal stories from Thanksgiving gatherings where once-staunch MAGA relatives quietly admitted they’re done. The slow but steady erosion of Trump’s credibility as everything he promised—cheaper food, housing, healthcare—has gotten more expensive. And the difference between flashy, overnight victories and the long, cumulative “wave” created by lawsuits, protests, marches, postcards, and turnout.As usual, we shift into action mode: current postcard campaigns, the Tennessee special election, the push from Indivisible to call senators about leadership changes, and a reminder to support small and local businesses during the holidays. And of course, we close with our joyful moments—from a big, warm Thanksgiving filled with family, singing, and leftovers, to painting the home office and clearing surfaces before Tucci the cat claims them for herself.If you’ve been feeling the exhaustion, the slow burn of anxiety, or the impatience for things to turn faster—this episode offers a breath, a reset, and a reminder that change often builds quietly… until it doesn’t.👉 Listen to the full episode and join us as we look back on a wild year, celebrate the progress, and think ahead to what the next twelve months might bring. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

It’s Thanksgiving week, so we decided to dedicate this episode of A Couple Thinks to gratitude, the kind you hold onto while we’re living through Trump’s second term.We organized our gratitude into four buckets: politics, family, lifestyle, and community. (Yes, we categorized our gratitude. No surprise to those who know us!)Here are the highlights — and you can hear the full conversation in this episode!Political gratitude (surprisingly, yes)A few things we’re genuinely thankful for:* More sunlight on Trump’s Epstein ties and on the victims, which is pushing some of his supporters away from him.* People resisting ICE and showing up in their communities to protect neighbors.* Independents and Latino voters peeling off from Trump as affordability, ICE, and healthcare failures come into focus.* Judges holding the line despite threats.* Protests and voter turnout — from No Kings Days to November elections with big democratic wins.It’s not “everything’s fine”; it’s “thank god for the people fighting to keep things from getting worse.”Family & healthWe’re grateful for:* A healthy family (never taken for granted).* Time with our adult daughters when everyone’s home.* Tucci, our new cat, who has taken over the house and our hearts.* And 30 years of marriage on the 30th! A golden-ish anniversary.Everyday joysWe talked about:* Loving our work and the clients we get to help.* Living in walkable, beautiful Berkeley.* Lisa’s bullet journal reminded her of the fun we had at several local street festivals, short getaways, and our longer fall road trip.Community, online and offAaron shared how meaningful his internet radio community is, especially after this year’s gathering in Denver. Lisa talked about her July ’97 moms group — 29 years of connection across platforms, life stages, and states.The internet isn’t always kind, but when it works, it works.The podcast & a few random gratitudesWe’re thankful for this podcast and for all of you who listen and send feedback. It helps us process this political moment without drowning in it.And yes, we’re grateful for:* Vaccines (political or not, they matter).* Trader Joe’s holiday items, which spark disproportionate joy.This week’s actions* Write postcards for ongoing special elections in Florida and Georgia.* Shop small and local as holiday season ramps up.* Carry Know Your Rights cards and share them with neighbors.* Call your reps about the issues weighing on you most.Joyful momentsWe closed the episode, as always, with what brought us joy this week:* Celebrating Aaron’s and Jolie’s birthdays.* Jolie’s upcoming visit home.* Aaron’s safe (and relatively drama-free) trip to Denver.* A spontaneous Friday night IKEA run that turned into an oddly delightful date night.* Aaron’s new audio gear that lets him punch buttons and up his late-night radio show hosting game.* Progress on turning his office into a proper studio (with those IKEA run purchases).None of this cancels out the fear, anger, or grief so many of us feel. But noticing these moments helps keep us from becoming too stuck.Want the full conversation?This was one of our most wide-ranging episodes of the year.🎧 Listen to the full Thanksgiving episode!And if you’re willing, reply with one thing you’re grateful for — political, personal, or just wonderfully trivial.We’re grateful for you being here. Happy Thanksgiving. 🧡 Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

We recorded this episode on Wednesday, November 12th, just before the big tranche of Epstein documents were released. Our focus was on the end of the shutdown and the way that happened even if this week that seems long, long ago. We don’t usually do episodes that sit close to the political news cycle, but last week’s frustration with Chuck Schumer and Democratic leadership felt too big to ignore.After months of being told Democrats had one piece of leverage — the shutdown — the moment they used it, leadership shifted to “Well, actually, we never had leverage.” The whiplash is real, especially when real people’s health care hangs in the balance.“I don’t want a gentleman. I want a fighter.”A Politico piece quoting Senator Dick Durbin kicked off our conversation. Durbin praised Schumer for being a “gentleman” when told in advance that Durbin would vote for the deal. That’s… not what this era calls for.The deeper question:Are Democratic leaders still trying to navigate Trump + Project 2025 with pre-Trump instincts?Durbin even said in January that resisting Project 2025 was “brand new” and they needed time to figure it out — despite over a year of warning signs. It raises the concern that the old guard doesn’t grasp how much the rules have changed.Where optimism shows up: the grassrootsWe do have some optimistic thoughts after our grousing session!Groups like Indivisible and 50/51 aren’t shrugging. They’re angry — and they’re gearing up to primary Democratic incumbents who are out of step with the moment. We’ve worked with Indivisible since 2016, and seeing them embrace a Tea Party–style strategy from the left feels like a meaningful shift.More than 7 million people turned out for No Kings Day. That’s the raw material of political change. Replacing Schumer or other leaders isn’t “divisive” — it’s healthy democracy. It signals that voters want brawlers, strategists, and people who understand that this is not a normal political cycle.A quick note on formatWe recorded this episode on November 12th, and by the time you read this, Schumer’s situation may have already changed. Usually we avoid super-timely episodes for this reason, they can expire fast. This Week’s Actions* Write postcards for December special elections.One is in Tennessee for a House seat — another chance to add a Democrat to Congress. * Shop small and local as you prep for the holidays.Live your values with your dollars.* Carry “know your rights” cards to share with those who may need them.* Call your senators and representatives (the 5 Calls app makes it easy).You can even tell your senator it’s time for new leadership if that’s where you are.* Stay connected:Email [email protected] survey: survey.acouplethinks.comJoyful MomentsLisa’s joy this week is mostly relief: Aaron’s travel and Jolie’s Thanksgiving plans now look unlikely to be disrupted by the shutdown. And of course, Tucci the rapidly growing kitten continues to be a little chaos machine of joy and distraction.Aaron’s joy: heading to Denver to see friends, and the reassuring Southwest email confirming his flight is unaffected. Also: deciding just how many masks to pack.We’ll be back in your feed next Tuesday, right on schedule. Thanks for listening, caring, and staying engaged even in the messy weeks. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

Last week’s off-year elections were fast, loud, and clear. Races were called early because the margins were that big. Democrats swept 13 of 13 statewide contests on the ballot, including Mikie Sherrill in New Jersey and Abigail Spanberger in Virginia, with double-digit wins in most of those races- thanks Taniel and Bolts for posting all the good info on Bluesky.If you’ve felt pummeled since 2024, this was a night where many of us finally exhaled.Two big numbers worth sitting with:* New Jersey: Nearly 3.6 million people voted—higher turnout than any non-presidential race in the state this century. * Virginia: More than 3.3 million Virginians cast ballots—the highest non-presidential turnout in the Commonwealth’s history. This wasn’t a sleepy off-year bump. This was voters—across factions—showing up (data geeks can check out the CNN Exit Polls for all the details)So…was this a “Blue Wave”?Short answer: yes, but let’s be precise about what kind of wave.What we saw:* Voters choosing competent, grounded candidates who talked about:* Affordability* Cost of living* Social safety nets* Protecting basic rights* Less oxygen for performative culture-war nonsense.* Local electorates picking the right fit for their communities:* A democratic socialist in New York City.* Center-left governors in Virginia and New Jersey.That mix matters. It’s a reminder that there is no one “correct” flavor of candidate—as long as they’re serious about making life more livable for real people.What this doesn’t mean (sorry, pundits)We’re all tempted to fling arrows from “Off-Year 2025” straight into “Midterms 2026” and call it data.Careful.Off-year electorates tend to be:* More engaged* More attentive* Less easily manipulated by vibes and headlinesThat said, the size of these margins and the turnout levels suggest something real:People are paying attention. People are tired of chaos. People are not buying what Trumpism is selling when Trump isn’t literally on their ballot—and his “I wasn’t on it, that’s why we lost” spin is…not reassuring for Republicans who’d like to govern. If GOP candidates can’t rely on Trump as turnout jet fuel and his endorsements keep underperforming, they either:* Double down on the cult.* Or start re-orienting around actually serving their constituents.We’re rooting—not for one-party rule—but for two functional parties again. Opposition is healthy. Nihilism is not.The template that’s emergingAcross races, one throughline stood out:* Talk about cost of living like it’s real (because it is).* Protect social safety nets without shaming people who need help.* Refuse to let every conversation be hijacked by culture-war bait.* Center human dignity—including trans people, immigrants, Jews, Muslims, families on SNAP—without letting bad-faith actors dictate the script.Candidates who did this well won big in very different places. That’s not magic; that’s messaging plus values plus organizing.Okay, so what do we do with this energy?Victories are not a permission slip to coast. They’re proof that work works.This week’s actions:* Feed people.The shutdown is over (though it wasn’t when we recorded this episode). Nevertheless, SNAP benefits and shutdown fallout may still be a factor in too many households. If you can, donate to:* Your local food bank or pantry* Mutual aid groups in your area* Stand between vulnerable neighbors and harm.If it resonates and is safe for you:* Connect with local groups doing accompaniment or patrols where day laborers and immigrants gather.* Learn how they vet volunteers and keep everyone safe.* Write where it counts.* Postcards to Voters and similar groups already have live campaigns for upcoming specials (including congressional). Jump in for a handful of cards!* Stay in your reps’ inboxes.* Call or email your senators and House member and tell them:* You noticed.* You expect them to protect democracy, voting rights, and safety nets.* Email us at [email protected] or complete our survey at survey.acouplethinks.comJoyful Moments (because we refuse to live in despair)We close the episode, as always, with joy on purpose:* That election night rush when the calls came in early.* Connecting with folks through a book club or through activism! * Anticipation of gathering with online friends in real life, even with storm clouds and airport chaos in the mix.This is the balance we’re trying to model: eyes open, shoulders squared, hearts soft. Wins don’t erase the work ahead, but they absolutely count as fuel.If you haven’t listened yet, this Substack goes with this week’s episode of A Couple Thinks—our post-election debrief (in briefs?). Pop in your earbuds, then tell us what you’re seeing where you live and how you’re choosing to stay engaged without burning out. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

On Tuesday night, we slipped into San Francisco for a quintessential “grown-up” date: dinner and a talk at the Commonwealth Club with former U.S. Attorney Joyce Vance, who’s on tour for her new book, Giving Up Is Unforgivable. We’ve followed Joyce since her collaborations with Preet Bharara, and her Substack, Civil Discourse. Hearing her in person, what landed most was her steady insistence that democracy is still ours, if we keep showing up.What stuck with us* Democracy needs citizens. Vance reminded us that “hopelessness is where autocrats try to push you.” If we disengage, they win by default.* Institutions vs. people. She argues our core institutions are sound; the threat is people willing to undermine them. Lisa’s take: if the house is strong but built to 1775 codes, it still needs an earthquake retrofit for 2025. Guardrails shouldn’t depend on gentlemen’s agreements.* Norms aren’t laws. The last decade taught us how quickly norms can be bulldozed. If it matters, codify it. If a norm has been demolished, stop pretending it protects us.* We are the cavalry. Government “of, by, and for” only works when we act like owners, not spectators.“What we choose to emphasize in this complex history will determine our lives. If we see only the worst, it destroys our capacity to do something.” —Howard ZinnThat Zinn line helped us. Yes, things are rough. Emphasize only the worst and you freeze. Notice the worst and act, and the story changes.Retrofit the RepublicWe both buy the separation-of-powers blueprint. But blueprints aren’t enough; maintenance matters. Think pragmatic upgrades:* Clarify what must be law, not culture.* Modernize the machinery (elections, ethics, transparency) for the world we actually live in.None of this happens if we cede the field. Small acts compound. That’s the whole premise of this project: Do something, then another thing.Doable actions this weekPick one and go do it! (We’d love to hear how it went too!)* Feed the gap. With SNAP funding in flux and delays hitting real families, donate to your local food bank or mutual-aid pantry. They know how to stretch a dollar more effectively, so money is the best bet for them.* Write five postcards. Postcards to Voters has two December special elections on deck. Request addresses, hand-write five by next week’s show!* Adopt the identity: say out loud (and in your bio): “I am a voter.” Identities drive behavior; you’ll be more likely to vote in every election, big and small.* Leave one voicemail for Congress. Ask your House member to get back to work on governance basics (funding, ethics, safeguarding elections). Polite, firm, 30 seconds.* Protect your neighbors. If your community organizes legal-observer or “know your rights” patrols, connect and learn how to plug in safely and constructively.* Recruit one friend. Share this post with a buddy and invite them to do one action with you. Accountability = follow-through.Got a better action? Hit reply or email [email protected]. You can also drop ideas in our short listener survey: survey.acouplethinks.com.Joyful moments (because batteries need recharging)Lisa: Holiday hosting season is my joy generator—menus, lists, and the built-in deadline to finish our home office reset. Also: dressing up for a city evening and hearing Joyce Vance live. Aaron: Turning my office from a boxes-and-cables cave into a simple video studio, and finally parting with old hard drives and mystery cords. And our night in the City.We’ll keep taking action and making joy as both are necessary and both are contagious. If you went to a book talk, made calls, wrote postcards, or just fed yourself well enough to keep going—tell us. We are, in Joyce’s words, part of the cavalry.Take a Listen to this week’s episode!P.S. If Joyce Vance comes through your town, go. And if you’ve read the book, what resonated (or didn’t)? Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

We’ve been thinking a lot about mindsets — the frameworks that shape how we interpret the world, often without realizing it.Aaron started us off by talking about the “bootstrap” stories we grew up with — those tidy promises that hard work automatically leads to success. It’s an appealing mindset, but one that skips over systemic realities like generational wealth, redlining, and unequal access to opportunity. When our worldview is built on incomplete stories, it’s harder to understand why others see things differently.This week, Lisa came across an Instagram post by Elad Nehorai that inspired our tackling of models and frameworks for today’s episode. He described two models of safety: the hierarchical model — where power is finite and one group’s safety comes at another’s expense — and the solidarity model, where safety and power expand when shared.That post became a bit of an aha moment for me. Not only because the framework made sense, but because it revealed how both “sides” of a conflict can contain people with either mindset. It’s not strictly left vs. right, it’s about how people see the nature of power and safety itself.Aaron drew parallels to scarcity vs. abundance thinking and that old pie metaphor we love. In the scarcity mindset, there’s only so much pie to go around; if you get a bigger slice, mine must shrink. In the abundance mindset, we just bake a bigger pie. It’s a simple shift, but it changes everything about how we see possibility, progress, and even peace.We also revisited George Lakoff’s classic frames: the Strict Father model (authoritarian, rule-based) and the Nurturant Parent model (empathetic, growth-oriented). These lenses shape not only our politics but how we relate to each other. Understanding them doesn’t mean agreeing with them, but it helps us grasp what motivates others so we can find better language for the conversation.The Frameworks Institute (IG @frameworksinstitute) takes this even further, exploring how deeply these mental models influence our society and how shifting the frame is key to lasting social change. It’s worth a visit if you’re curious about how language shapes thinking.In a week when local activism met national headlines, with thousands of Bay Area residents mobilizing to defend immigrant rights, it was heartening to see solidarity in action. Safety, shared. Power, expanded.We can all use a reminder that the stories we tell ourselves shape what we think is possible — and what we believe is worth fighting for. Sometimes the most radical act is simply to turn the cube and see the whole picture.As always, we like to bring the big ideas down to the level of what we can do — because understanding frameworks is only useful if it leads to better choices and more connection.This week’s clearest action: vote. If you’re in California, Proposition 50 is on your ballot — a redistricting measure that could influence fair representation for years to come. Ballots are already out, and turnout is strong, but every vote adds momentum. If you’re not yet registered, you can still register and vote in person through Election Day.For those who want to stay active beyond the ballot box, Postcards to Voters has four campaigns underway, from Georgia to Virginia. Small actions like these build the infrastructure of empathy and representation we’ve been talking about, one handwritten card, one conversation, one mindset shift at a time. And if you want to plug in more directly, Mobilize.us lists dozens of local opportunities every week.Meanwhile, this week brought a striking local example of solidarity in action: when Trump announced plans to send federal agents, likely ICE, into the Bay Area, thousands of people immediately signed up for resistance training. The sheer speed and scale of that response reminded us that people power is alive and ready. Whether or not that specific action was rolled back because of public outcry or political calculation, it was heartening to see so many neighbors move instantly from fear to courage.😊 Joyful MomentsWe always like to end with joy, because without it, action burns out.For Lisa, joy this week came from a simple evening in Sausalito, walking by the water with family, breathing in the salt air, and remembering that proximity, whether to people or the ocean, can be healing.For Aaron, joy continues to arrive in the form of our new kitten, or maybe in the way she’s forced us to clear off our surfaces. It turns out that cats can be tiny, fuzzy Marie Kondos, nudging us toward a tidier home and a fresh perspective. He also reminisced about a favorite childhood book: The King, the Mice and the Cheese, linked as promised, though I couldn’t find it on Bookshop.org so this is an Amazon Affiliate link. And maybe that’s the metaphor for this week’s conversation: sometimes a small disruption, like a kitten, a community response, a new way of seeing, can shift the whole framework. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

We showed up. So did a whole lot of other people.Oakland’s No Kings Day ( Indivisible ) felt bigger than June: packed BART cars (yes, we were sardined, and yes, it was the good kind), sun-splashed streets, inflatable costumes everywhere, and that brassy mini-marching band that turned walking into dancing. Joyful and nonviolent. Loud and peaceful. (Here’s the link to watch the video highlighting lots of locations around the country! NoKings.org)On our way to the staging area, an older Black gentleman turned to us and said he’d been protesting since the ’60s—back when people threw bottles. He came alone. No sign, no shirt, just presence. We were humbled. We talked about how far backward our country has slid—and how we refuse to be still about it.From Oakland to small towns across the country, clips rolled in all day. Estimates will keep shifting, but the point is clear: many millions showed up. And for some, it was their first time. That matters. Movements grow when new people have good first experiences and come back with friends.A quick word on “parade vs protest.” We’ve heard the critique. Our take: there isn’t one right way. Saturday events are accessible. Well-organized, family-friendly actions build numbers, skills, and confidence. And nonviolent action is not “weak”—it’s effective. Music helps. Chants help. Radical joy helps. So do safety teams in bright vests, and routes that keep people protected.We saw neighbors, clients, and folks we haven’t bumped into for years. The work continues between big events. If you were there—thank you. If you weren’t—there are a dozen ways to plug in this week:Do This Next* Californians: Vote YES on Prop 50 (redistricting). Fill out your ballot and turn it in early.* Donate or volunteer: ActBlue for Prop 50; phone banks and canvassing are happening now.* Write voters: Postcards to Voters has active campaigns (GA PSC, PA judicial retention, NJ governor).* Call Congress: Tell your reps what matters to you—brief and consistent beats perfect.* Spread the word: Share why you showed up (or why you support) and invite one friend to the next action.We’ll keep collecting your topic ideas—drop them at survey.acouplethinks.com or email [email protected] MomentsWe just wrapped an 11-day road trip: family and friends in LA and San Diego, a spontaneous three-hour deep dive on the USS Midway, La Jolla’s art & wine fest, and the sweet relief of coming home. (Bonus drama: a late-night tornado warning in Pismo Beach. Everyone OK. Adrenaline: also OK.)Momentum feels like this. See you at the next one.Listen in to the podcast on Substack or Apple/Spotify podcasts for the whole story! Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

We recorded this pep talk on September 30—right before our road trip—so if the news has swerved since then, consider that even more reason to show up this Saturday, October 18, for the second No Kings Day. June’s turnout was huge and electric; it reminded us that we’re part of something bigger, locally and nationally. Let’s build on that energy.Why we’re going back outThe chaos and cruelty haven’t slowed. Courts and Congress matter, but again and again we’re reminded: it’s up to us. Research shows that when about 3.5% of a nation engages in sustained, visible resistance, authoritarian projects usually can’t hold. June’s estimates ranged from 5–12 million. Let’s meet—and beat—that higher number.What to do this week (just one thing)Go to your local No Kings Day on Saturday, Oct 18.Find and register for a NO KINGS DAY event on Mobilize.usProtest 101 (and 102—no exam, just the practicum)* Bring friends. Joy is a force multiplier. Make it lunch + rally or rally + lake walk.* Make/bring a sign. Snarky or serious both work. A few faves:* “No Faux King Way”* “It’s giving small dick-tator energy.”* “Defend the Constitution.” (Perfect if you want strong + civil.)Here’s some sign inspiration!* Safety common sense. Stay aware of surroundings. If it doesn’t feel right, shift your spot or sit one out and support from the edges (materials, rides, comms).* Phone tip. Consider turning off Face ID/face recognition during the event; turn it back on later.* Dad-mode basics. Hydrate, hat, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, comfy shoes. Pocket Constitution optional but on brand.Chant cheat-sheet (keep it short, punchy, and fun)* “Hey hey, ho ho, Donald Trump has got to go.”* “When I say ‘We want,’ you say ‘Justice!’—We want / Justice!”* Swap in what fits: democracy, healthcare, “No Kings,” etc.Here’s the chant + song link.Spirit Week energyIf you’re organizing with friends, pick a color or theme. Silly hats totally count. The point is to be seen, heard, and counted—and to make participation welcoming for first-timers. Many people told us June was their first protest ever. Expect more first-timers this weekend—say hi.Big fish, bigger schoolThere’s that image of a big fish bearing down on tiny fish—until the small ones move together and form a bigger fish. That’s the assignment. We still have assembly and speech protections—use them so we don’t lose them.Joyful Moments (because we need those, too)We’re projecting forward that our road trip left us smiling—and equally happy to be home. Travel is great; coming home to a place you love is its own kind of fuel. Fingers crossed we’re still married after all those miles (for the sake of the podcast, obviously 😉).See you in the streets and town centers on October 18. Let’s save our democracy together. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

It’s just 11 days until the next No Kings Day protests. We want to remind folks of how joyful these events can be as we revisit the episode we posted immediately after the June 2025 No Kings Day event. The events were joyful and safe, and we look forward to similar events on October 18th!Take a listen and don’t forget to register for your local No Kings Day event on Mobilize.USp.s. Did I jinx us regarding earthquakes when I mentioned not having had an earthquake over 4.3 back in June? The temblor we had a few weeks ago was initially reported as a 4.6, but then downgraded to 4.3. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This week we are talking about boycotts—when they work, when they don’t, and why the recent Disney boycott was so effective.We wanted to start with a moment of celebration: Jimmy Kimmel is back on ABC, and Sinclair and Nexstar have resumed airing his show. For once, a boycott delivered fast, visible results. We think that’s worth a little dance, a little cheer, and a reminder that wins—especially these days—are worth savoring.So why did this boycott succeed when others fizzle? We see three main reasons:* Disney’s reach is massive. Parks, cruises, streaming services, movies, merchandise, ESPN—consumers had countless ways to apply pressure. Revenue dropped immediately and market value followed.* The outrage was bipartisan. It wasn’t just liberals pushing back on the attack on free speech; conservatives joined in. That gave Disney cover to reverse course.* Disney didn’t need anything from the administration. Unlike Nexstar and Sinclair, which rely on government approvals for mergers, Disney wasn’t vulnerable to short-term federal leverage. That gave them more freedom to prioritize their customers over political pressure.The immediacy of consumer action also mattered. People canceled or paused Hulu and Disney+, cut trips to the parks, and shared screenshots of their cancellations online. The speed and visibility amplified the impact.And here’s an important lesson: once Disney reinstated Kimmel, many of us restarted our subscriptions. Rewarding companies when they do the right thing is as powerful as punishing them when they don’t. It keeps the leverage alive.Boycotts aren’t always quick fixes. Target and Starbucks, for example, continue to feel the drag of ongoing consumer pushback but haven’t shifted course. Sometimes it takes months or years. But this Disney case reminds us that collective, coordinated action can work—and can work fast.As always, we close with a few actions for this week:* Keep talking about Proposition 50 (redistricting) in California, and if you can, donate or sign up for canvassing and phone calling.* Join a No Kings Day event near you on October 18.* Write postcards to voters in Pennsylvania, where judicial elections are critical for protecting voting rights.And on a personal note, we shared some joyful moments too: celebrating Rosh Hashanah with family, reconnecting with neighbors at our block party, and looking forward to our upcoming road trip to Southern California.Thanks for reading, and thanks for being part of a community that reminds us we do have power when we act together. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This week we’re talking about something that sits above our usual political lanes: free speech. We’ve seen this past week that many across the political spectrum do agree that the First Amendment is a guardrail we can’t afford to lose.The spark was the sudden suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! after pressure campaigns, regulatory saber-rattling, and stations dropping the show. Disturbing, yes—and also clarifying. What gave us hope was the swift pushback from across the spectrum: not just Democrats and left-leaning folks, but big conservative voices too.We heard some commentary about ‘cancel culture’ that resonated: when the “left cancels,” it’s usually market action (wallets and feet—boycotts and turning away). When the “right cancels,” it can look like the state wielding government power. Those are not the same thing. The First Amendment protects us from the government—full stop. That difference matters.Historian Heather Cox Richardson captured the moment well: the divide isn’t simply left vs. right; it’s “we the people” vs. creeping authoritarianism. That framing helped us name what felt off. It also helped us see why so many “quiet middle” folks woke up quickly to defend a basic guardrail. (Here’s her Substack post that Aaron mentioned).We also wrestled with the usefulness of left/right labels. They can describe ideas, but they can also reduce people into caricatures. Most of us share a core set of values—safety, fairness, dignity, the freedom to speak. Labels make it too easy to project the worst onto “the other side” and miss where we actually agree.Do crises catalyze shared values? Often, yes. Towns rally after fires and floods. Maybe this free-speech moment is a civic version of that—one that reminds us we’re neighbors first, partisans second.What we’re doing (and what you can do)* Prop 50 (CA redistricting): donate, phonebank, canvass, or simply talk it up with friends. We’re sharing posts as we see good ones and joining Swing Left phone banks.* Oct 18: No Kings Day protests: showing up matters—especially a few weeks before the election.* Postcards to Voters: there are at least three active campaigns—grab a stack and write a few.* Budget & health subsidies: keep calling your reps; steady pressure still counts.* Share your ideas: email us at [email protected] and take our quick listener survey at survey.acouplethinks.com.Joyful (and grateful) momentsLisa: Flu + COVID shots this week (and got Mom in for her flu shot). Grateful for smooth coverage and long lines of people protecting each other. Also: kitten Tucci Aaron: Concurs with kitten Tucci though notes that she’s 50% purr, 50% tiny tiger. He also met up in person with friends made through radio—proof that community can start online and blossom IRL.If free speech brought you here, welcome. If you’re a longtime listener, thank you for staying in the conversation. We’ll keep centering shared values—and pairing reflection with action. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This week was a heavy one. The murder of Charlie Kirk shook us, not because we shared his politics—we didn’t—but because we both believe that violence is never the answer. Taking a life is always wrong, and violence only breeds more violence.Lisa found herself struck by how quickly misinformation, disinformation, and conspiracy theories spread. Even reputable outlets and political figures got key details wrong, and social media was filled with wild theories. As she scrolled, she was reminded of how easily our human brains lean into confirmation bias, seeking out information that matches what we already believe and ignoring the rest. Aaron pointed out how doomscrolling feeds that same cycle, keeping us locked in the swirl of uncertainty and fear.We spent time talking about how to push back on those tendencies: * Separate news from opinion. Old-school papers used to fence them off. Your feed mashes them together. Notice whether you’re reading verified reporting or commentary reacting to it. (Local outlets near the event can be especially useful for early factual updates.) * Vet the byline and the source. Is it the real outlet or a look-alike page/account? * Expect corrections. Early details are often wrong; responsible outlets correct as facts firm up. Build that into your mindset so updates feel like progress, not betrayal.* Timebox your exposure. Especially at night. Close the apps; don’t go to bed with your brain spinning.* Name the feeling; pick the action. If you’re anxious or angry, decide what constructive thing you’ll do next (walk, text a friend, donate, volunteer, or learn). We also reflected on how (and when) to engage on social media. Aaron suggested starting with respect and common ground if you do respond, while Lisa added that sometimes the purpose isn’t just about convincing the original poster—it’s about giving others in the conversation a chance to see a different perspective. But honestly, a lot of the time, the wiser choice is simply to move on.As always, we closed with some action steps. Lisa shared ways to support California’s Prop 50, opportunities to canvass and phone bank, Signs of Solidarity events, the upcoming No Kings Day on October 18th, postcard writing, and calling elected officials. These are the kinds of tangible, constructive things that help us channel energy away from the noise and toward something positive.And, of course, we ended with our joyful moments. Our daughter Jolie came home—really to meet our new kitten Tucci—and we spent a wonderful day together at the de Young Museum and a long lunch out. In the midst of such a dark week, that time together was exactly the light we needed. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

We’ll be in your ears with a fresh episode next week, but for this week, we're sharing an episode we recorded back in March. Wow, March seems so so long ago!The episode was originally titled “From Bystander to Upstander,” and we’ve added a short intro tying in some recent events. Here’s the link to the original accompanying Substack post. The original episode was also before we added the Joyful Moments segment so here’s another pic of Tucci the kitten to keep you going until next week! Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This week, we circled back to a question that’s been woven through our show since the beginning: where should we spend our energy—activating people who agree with us but haven’t taken action yet, or engaging people on the “other side”?Lisa leans toward inviting the not-yet-active folks onto the boats in our River of Justice metaphor. Aaron, on the other hand, feels drawn to talking with people who see the world differently, sometimes very differently, because even small shifts matter.We don’t totally agree here, and that’s part of the point.Why “why” doesn’t workOne thing we do agree on: facts and finger-wagging don’t change minds. Lisa shared a framework she picked up from Dan Harris interview with Alison Wood Brooks, PhD who uses TALK:* Topics* Ask questions* Levity* KindnessThe ask questions part really resonated. In particular, avoiding “why” questions that sound accusatory and instead using “what” questions that invite nuance. Asking “what were the pros and cons you considered?” leaves space for doubt and reflection in a way “why did you vote for him?” never will.Fear vs. empowermentAaron framed it this way: there are two powerful motivators. Fear can push people to act quickly, but usually only to protect themselves. Empowerment invites people to act in line with their values, which tends to stick. It’s a reminder that persuasion isn’t just about arguments, it’s about what kind of action lasts beyond the moment.Telling your own storyOur daughter Emma added another angle at the dinner table: just calmly share your own beliefs and the journey that led you there. No debate, no demand for the other person to defend themselves. It’s vulnerable, authentic, and sometimes the most disarming approach.Making it irresistibleWe also celebrated a joyful example of irresistible civic engagement: Zohran Mamdani’s New York City scavenger hunt. Over 4,000 people turned out, learned some history, and had fun together. It was politics—but joyful, magnetic politics. Watch it here!That’s the kind of energy we want more of: not just resisting, but building boats people can’t wait to climb into.This week’s actions* California Prop 50 (redistricting): donate if you can; tell three friends; hop on a phone bank with groups organizing now.* Five Calls: pick an issue and make two calls—scripts lower the barrier.* hello@acouplethinkscom* SurveyJoyful moments* Lisa: scrolling through “when it happens” playlists on Bluesky and Threads…and of course, Tucci the kitten with her laser pointer.* Aaron: watching Tucci’s personality emerge (while resisting the urge to turn her into a tiny wrestler). Bonus joy: she sleeps through the night!Tucci’s InstagramIf you try the TALK framework (or host something irresistibly joyful), tell us how it goes: [email protected]. And if you want the weekly action links, subscribe and share! Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

In our latest episode of A Couple Thinks, we revisit some of the themes we’ve explored before—resistance, action, and joy—but frame them through new inspiration. Lisa came across a TikTok from Elizabeth H, which opened with an introduction to a video of activist and author Glennon Doyle. Doyle starts with a parable:An anti-war activist stood outside the White House with a candle, night after night. A reporter asked, “Do you really think you’ll change this country by standing here alone?” The activist replied, “Oh, I don’t do this to change the country. I do this so the country won’t change me.”The reminder that our actions not only aim to create change, but also keep us aligned with our own values, set the tone for our conversation.We also explored Doyle’s metaphor of the river of justice, which draws on Michelle Alexander’s insight that progress itself is the river, and those who try to stop it are the true “resistors.” The river keeps moving, but it needs boats—boats filled with people who care about reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ equality, the environment, racial justice, democracy, and more.Our job, as Doyle frames it, is to:* Find the boat that matters most to us.* Support the leaders who are already steering.* Welcome new people aboard with encouragement, not criticism.* Resist the urge to tear down other boats rowing toward the same horizon.* And perhaps most importantly, dance, sing, and find joy on the boat, making it irresistible for others to join.This vision deeply resonates with us. It’s about resisting despair as much as resisting injustice. It’s about channeling skills, passions, and creativity into action—and remembering that joy is not frivolous but essential fuel for progress.We close the episode, as always, with our “Joyful Moments.” This week’s was extra special: we welcomed a new kitten, Tucci, into our family. Listen in to get the scoop on how we picked her and gave her her name!Here are some of the resources we mentioned for taking action:Mobilize.us for September 1st actionsCalifornia Redistricting Donation5calls.orgPostcards to Voters 👉 Tune in to hear the full conversation and join us as we light candles, climb into boats, and keep the river of justice moving. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This week we’re circling back to the topic of non-cooperation, which we have also called resistance or disruption. We recently finished watching all three training sessions provided by One Million Rising, an Indivisible project, and we’ve been hashing out the ideas and examples they offered. The good news? You can watch them too or listen to our podcast for the highlights! They’re available for free, along with support materials, at nokings.org/rise.The trainings lay out three levels of non-cooperation:* Individual and small group actions* Collective actions at the community level* Mass actions like general strikesIt’s a framework that shows how even small steps, like changing your shopping habits or hosting a neighborhood gathering, can ripple outward into something much bigger.One theme that stood out for us was the focus on gatherings. The trainings encourage people to bring others together, talk about the threats of authoritarianism, and commit to taking nonviolent action. Think of it as building “sleeper cells” of democracy—neighbors and friends practicing small-scale cooperation so we’re ready for larger collective action when the moment comes.We also found it helpful to hear examples of how the “pillars” of society: business, labor, faith groups, media, education, and others—can be persuaded to resist authoritarian pressure. From Harvard alumni pushing their university to stand firm, to consumers boycotting companies like Target or Tesla, to California standing up against federal overreach, these are the levers of power that matter.One of the sharpest examples came from the fight over Avelo Airlines, which profited from deportation contracts. If deportation flights become a successful business model, other airlines may follow. The call to action is clear: make Avelo a cautionary tale, not a trend.And then there’s redistricting. As Democratic Texas legislator Gene Wu reminded participants, the erosion of democracy is happening slowly, piece by piece, and gerrymandering is one of the sharpest tools authoritarian-leaning leaders have. Here in California, Governor Newsom has put forward a measure to counteract Texas’s moves. From our perspective, the message is simple: we need massive turnout to show authoritarians we’re paying attention.Finally, as always, the trainings encourage us to anchor our work in respect and empathy, even when we disagree politically. Resistance isn’t about uniformity—it’s about standing together in defense of democracy.We’d love to hear what you think: have you tried watching the trainings? Do you see ways to bring your neighbors or friends into this work? Drop us a note and let us know.And of course, stick around to the end of the episode for our Joyful Moments—because joy, like resistance, spreads when we share it.Here are the Resource links we mentioned:One Million Rising Landing pageTraining VideosSmall Business Sign CampaignState-by-state details about RedistrictingGround Avelo Airlines Campaign5 calls (for calling your congresspeople)Postcards to VotersA Couple Thinks Survey Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

First, a quick reminder that if you haven’t yet taken our survey- you still can! Here’s the link.Next up, we’ve been away for several days and decided to reprise an earlier episode for your listening pleasure. Take a listen to Echo Chambers and Empathy, for the first time or the second! You can also check our back catalog for any others that you missed. We weren’t yet doing Joyful Moments in this episode, but we’ll be bringing you two weeks worth of those next week! Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

We all do it—stick with something longer than we should simply because we've already poured time, money, or emotional energy into it. Whether it's a broken appliance, a job that drains us, or an ideology that no longer serves us, we’re wired to avoid the discomfort of "wasting" our past investment. This mental trap is known as the sunk cost fallacy, and in this episode, we take a closer look at how it shows up in politics, identity, and everyday decision-making.Aaron kicks things off by reflecting on the MAGA movement and how sunk costs may be keeping many supporters from reconsidering their choices, even in the face of contradictory evidence. From emotional investment to fear of regret and social pressure, we unpack the psychological weights that keep people from changing direction.Lisa adds insight from behavioral economics and consumer psychology, drawing on her past experience teaching business students how to make smarter, future-focused decisions. Together, we explore how ideas like loyalty and consistency—often seen as virtues—can sometimes trap us in harmful cycles. We also discuss why identity, language, and social media algorithms can make change even harder, and what kinds of messaging and messengers might help people shift perspective.If you've ever struggled to let go of something because of how much you’ve already given to it, you're not alone. We hope this conversation helps frame those choices with more compassion and clarity—and reminds you that changing your mind isn’t weakness. It’s wisdom.Plus, we share a joyful celebration from Lisa’s birthday, highlight some actions you can take this week (including handwritten postcards and upcoming trainings), and leave you with hope for the future.👉 Take our listener survey👉 Watch the One Million Rising training: Session One and Session Two👉 Voter Research from Sister DistrictP.S. Next week we’ll be replaying our episode Echo Chambers and Empathy—a timely listen for anyone wrestling with communication across divides. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

Thirty weeks (give or take) of conversations, editing, topic wrangling, and joyfully debating what’s going on in the world, and in our heads.In this week’s episode, we take a breath and reflect:* What has surprised us about this podcasting adventure?* What’s been harder (or easier) than expected?* What keeps us going?* What have we learned about ourselves, about each other, and about podcasting itself?We talk about some favorite episodes (including geeky democracy math and upstander moments), share behind-the-scenes tidbits (yes, we record in separate rooms because of our “animal magnetism”), and celebrate the real MVPs: you, our listeners.Your feedback, comments, downloads, and shares, has kept our little engine running. And now we’re asking for more.👉 Take our (very short, anonymous) listener survey:survey.acouplethinks.comHelp us shape the next 30 episodes by telling us what you want more (or less) of.And as always, we end the show with our joyful moments—this week, it’s all about summer fruit, DIY compote, and the delight of birthday anticipation.Here are the links for taking action as well:One Million Rising Training from IndivisiblePostcards to Voters5 Calls Thank you for being part of this journey. We’re so grateful. Here’s to the next chapter. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This week’s episode of A Couple Thinks dives into the land of hot takes—those quick, confident opinions that dominate the news cycle and social media, often delivered with more certainty than the facts warrant.From speculative health diagnoses about Donald Trump’s swollen legs to breathless predictions about NPR’s demise, we’re surrounded by voices who seem to know what's going to happen next. But as we explore in this episode, those predictions can lead us on a roller coaster of emotion and distraction.We talk about how it feels when an argument from a podcast makes plenty of sense, only to find reality veer in a completely different direction. We question what happens when we invest in imagined outcomes and then get thrown by what actually unfolds.And then we ask: what can we do with our attention, our time, and our energy?Enter the concept of non-cooperation—a term we’re beginning to embrace over “resistance” or “disruption.” Inspired by the One Million Rising training (you can watch it here and sign up for upcoming sessions here), we discuss how ordinary people can make an extraordinary impact by opting out of authoritarian systems, connecting with others, and building the kind of coalitions that create real change.We also reflect on the networks we already have: our neighbors, our Rotary club, our Indivisible group, and how those could become the foundation for deeper conversations and action. Maybe your action is a postcard-writing group. Maybe it’s a block party. Maybe it's just showing up and saying, “Hey, I’ve got your back.”And yes, we still find joy from watching Bob Dylan biopics and cat videos that reset our algorithms and our moods.So here’s the invitation:* Take in the news, but don’t get swallowed by it.* Find one thing this week you can do—whether that’s calling your rep, watching a training, or talking to a neighbor.* And let joy have a seat next to your activism. You’ll need both.As always, thank you for thinking and acting with us.With hope and hot takes (but not too hot)! Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

When Protest Isn’t EnoughThis week on A Couple Thinks, we’re revisiting a topic from one of our earliest episodes: the relationship between protest, resistance, and disruption—and how that dynamic is shifting in this very urgent moment.It started with a conversation between us about whether calling our elected officials is still effective. The recent passage of the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” (or, as we’ve taken to calling it, the large lousy legislation) raised doubts. Many of us called, emailed, protested, pleaded—and still watched it get signed into law.So what now?We reflect on how, in moments like this, protest often morphs into resistance. Inspired by a video from historian Tad Stoermer and a recent Indivisible email calling for “1 Million Rising,” we dig into what it means to stand in the way, not just ask for change.We talk about historical examples—from Thoreau to Mario Savio—and modern ones, like blocking ICE vehicles. We also share our own anxieties and hopes as we sign up for resistance training, explore local opportunities for solidarity, and remind ourselves that even small acts—like calling a rep, sending a postcard, or showing up for a neighbor—can matter.As always, we round things out with our joyful moments. This time: a trip to the Temescal Street Fair and a deep appreciation for community creativity (and a hot tub soak).Links we mentioned:* Tad Stormer video on protest vs. resistance* Indivisible's 1 Million Rising training from Indivisible Project * Five Calls app* Postcards to VotersHere’s the promised picture of Aaron and the Box of Unknown Power Cords! at the East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse.Call to Action:Join a protest on Good Trouble Day, July 17. And if you can’t be in the streets, consider resistance in other forms: taking a training, making a call, offering support to immigrant families in your community. Let’s each do something. And together, that can become everything. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

What if the problem with American democracy isn't just polarization, corruption, or disinformation—but sheer size?In this week’s episode of A Couple Thinks, we take on a provocative hypothesis: Democracy might not work at the scale of 340 million people spread across a huge country.Lisa walks us through her research into the world’s top-performing democracies, and what they all seem to have in common—smaller populations, higher trust in institutions, and often, more geographic proximity. Think Scandinavia, not superpowers.{resource: The Economist Democracy Index}We unpack why scale might matter more than we realize when it comes to empathy, trust, and functional governance. If most people are willing to help someone in their own community but disengage from the struggles of strangers thousands of miles away, what does that mean for national unity?Aaron expands the conversation by exploring how state identities, geographic hazards, and shared experiences (or lack thereof) can shape our sense of connection—or distance—from one another.Along the way, we ask:* What makes a democracy successful—and can it scale?* Are we living in the United States or just a collection of semi-connected regions?* Could a looser federation—like a European Union of American countries—work better?It’s a big conversation about big things: size, empathy, identity, and the real limits of governance.Plus, in our joyful moments segment, we share road trip dreams and the simple joy of laughter at home.👉 Listen in and let us know: Is democracy just too big to work at this scale? Would you join the hypothetical “Union of American Countries”? And what would you name your region?And here are a regular action item recommendations:Good Trouble Live On events, July 17th. Find info at mobilize.us. Sponsors include: the Transformative Justice Coalition, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, Indivisible. The 50501 Movement, and more!Postcards to Voters5calls📬 Write us at [email protected]—we really do want to know. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

As fireworks light up the sky and grills get fired up this week, we’re taking a moment to ask: what does patriotism mean in 2025?In this episode of A Couple Thinks, we reflect on our childhood memories of the 4th of July—bicycle parades, sticky nights, firework shows, and explore how those feelings of civic pride have evolved as we’ve learned more about America’s history and reckoned with its present.We talk about:* Growing up near America’s founding landmarks (Aaron in Philly, Lisa in DC)* Why our kids don’t feel as connected to July 4th traditions* The co-opting of patriotic symbols and language by the political right* The tension between rugged individualism and community care* Why we still believe in showing up, for our country, and for one anotherWe also share some of our favorite quotes from Mark Twain, Teddy Roosevelt, and James Baldwin that help us define a kind of patriotism that is grounded in love and accountability.In the end, we agree: loving your country doesn't mean denying its flaws. It means rolling up your sleeves, building community, and insisting on something better, for all of us.💥 Plus, we share our joyful moments from the week, including a surprise appearance by Joan Baez and a delightful Rotary Club tradition.👉 Actions This Week:* Mark your calendar for Good Trouble Day – July 17th: A national protest day in honor of John Lewis. Sponsors include Indivisible, The 50501 Movement and more* Write postcards to voters and call your senators, especially about that “big, beautiful bill” (or as Aaron calls it, large, lousy legislation). * And if you're curious about community and service, reach out to learn more about Rotary!* Jess Craven’s NOTES tab has up to the minute actions you can take. If you’re reading this before the large, lousy legislation vote, please check on her suggested actions!As always, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a note at [email protected] with thoughts, questions, or your own July 4th reflections. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

In this week’s episode of A Couple Thinks, we dove into a topic that caught both of us off guard in the best way: what if Trump voters can be kind, but only inside a narrow circle?The episode was sparked by a TikTok from Sara J. McCord (and her business substack Sara McCord) who broke down why some MAGA supporters feel confused when they're treated with suspicion by people outside their political camp. Her framing helped us see how differently people can understand compassion—some zoom in to their familiar circles, others zoom out to humanity at large. That led us into a broader conversation about tribalism, how our brains evolved to protect our group, and what it takes to shift perspectives without immediately shutting people down. We also discuss psychologist Sam Darling’s instagram reel, who offers her take on how easy it is to be included in MAGA-world, along with a bit of hope on how to build an off-ramp for people leaving toxic communities, without judgment, but with accountability.And yes, we touch on our own personal growth too: from learning about white privilege, to resisting the urge to clap back online, to raising kids who think globally. Spoiler: travel, Jewish history, and a great Mark Twain quote all make an appearance.We’re not pretending to have it all figured out. But we do believe in making space for conversation, for growth, and shared humanity.🎧 [Listen to the episode]📌 Watch the TikTok and Instagram we referenced (linked below and in the post)📝 Drop a comment: What helped you zoom out?TIKTOK BY SARA J MCCORD re: MAGA voters kindness individually but not globally. INSTAGRAM REEL BY DARLING.SAM.DARLING re: humans hardwired for groups/tribes etc. Take Action: 5 Calls (for scripts to call your electeds) Postcards to Voters Mobilize.us (look for upcoming actions near you) Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

We’re still buzzing.No Kings Day was everything we hoped for, and so much more. In over 2,000 locations across the U.S., people showed up with energy, with purpose, and with love for democracy. We were part of the massive Oakland march and rally, and we’re not exaggerating when we say it was one of the most moving civic moments of our lives.From the speakers (Barbara Lee! Latifah Simon! Buffy Wicks!) to the vibe (joyful, peaceful, purposeful), to the sheer number of people filling the streets, it was a vivid contrast to the posturing coming out of D.C. that same day and the authoritarian actions of ICE, the National Guard and Marine deployment and the treatment of Senator Padilla.While Trump was busy trying to orchestrate a clumsy military parade, Americans were out in force, demanding dignity, freedom, and accountability. We even saw folks at the march who had never protested before. If you're one of them: thank you. You're our kind of patriot.In this episode, we reflect on:* What it was like to be in Oakland on No Kings Day* How the day contrasted with the authoritarian theatrics in Washington* Why marches matter — especially now* What comes next (hint: keep building the muscle)* And our usual joyful moments, including some gorgeous weatherWhether you were out marching or cheering from home, we hope this conversation keeps your energy high. As we say in the episode, this is a long game. But we’ve got momentum now, and we intend to use it.🎧 Listen in, and let us know in the comments — did you attend a No Kings Day event? What stood out to you? What do you want to see next?Resources:Mobilize.usPostcards to VotersArticle about Virginia elections (gift) Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

This is a slightly unusual mashup episode.Part of this one was recorded way back on January 1st, when we were riding a wave of hope (and maybe a little mischief) after noticing some early cracks in the Trump–Musk alliance. We were trying to get a few episodes under our belt before we launched so kept it slightly generic but we never found a good moment to release it and in fact, thought it might stay shelved forever. But then, last week’s very public Trump–Musk breakup changed everything.So we’re back with that shelved conversation, wrapped in fresh commentary and context.In this episode, we ask: Is it okay to take glee in MAGA’s dysfunction? Can we savor those moments when the authoritarian juggernaut lurches and sputters, without losing focus or inadvertently hardening the opposition? And more importantly: how do we decide when to share the schadenfreude and when to keep it in the group chat?We also touch on:* The disturbing response to LA's peaceful anti-ICE protests* Trump’s attempted use of the National Guard in defiance of Governor Newsom* The upcoming No Kings Day protests on June 14th — and why we’ll be in Oakland with signs in hand* How to be strategic with your social media shares* A helpful frame: “talk to think” vs. “think to talk” and why it matters in political discourse and relationships🎧 Whether you’re a cautious optimist, a gleeful resistor, or just someone trying to process all the chaos, we think you’ll find something valuable in this one.👉 Listen now! We’ll also be sharing a mini-post with sign ideas for No Kings Day — feel free to borrow or remix.See you in the streets (or the comments).Visit Mobilize.us to find the No Kings Day events near you. Sponsors include: Indivisible, The 50501 Movement, and many more.Here’s a link to our Posters/Signs Substack post.You can find training events for No Kings Day on the No Kings Day website Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of A Couple Thinks, we’re doing two things: breaking down how to take meaningful local action, even if politics feels like too much, and finding the good news that helps balance out the doom-scroll.Aaron kicks things off with a challenge: If you’re someone with the privilege and comfort to be politically visible, get out there. Join a protest. Write to your representatives. But if politics feels too risky or heavy right now … there are still so many ways to “do something.”We talk about volunteering at food banks, helping out at local events, supporting small businesses, and even joining community organizations like Rotary or your local Chamber of Commerce. These non-political acts of service build community resilience and personal connection.Lisa shares a few ways to dig deeper into community support systems, from Mutual Aid networks to city-led volunteer opportunities. In the second half of the episode, we talk about finding balance. Lisa shares some of her favorite places for positive news—from “Under the Desk News” to the Good News Network—and her commitment to a media diet that includes plenty to celebrate, not just outrage. In our Joyful Moments segment, we celebrate the small wins—from window screen repairs to backyard s’mores. We both rhapsodize about the power of the s’more to bring joy (even the extra-gooey, messy kind). Aaron shares the power of crossword puzzles and finding satisfaction in something as tactile as a sharp pencil and a clever clue. Links mentioned in this episode:* Under the Desk News on Instagram Under the Desk News (on Substack)* Good News Network* Heather Cox Richardson Letters from an American (on Substack)* Joyce Vance Civil Discourse (on Substack)* Preet Bharara: Stay Tuned Podcast and Stay Tuned with Preet (on Substack)* Tim Miller: The Bulwark Podcast and Tim Miller (on Substack)* Democracy Docket Democracy Docket (on Substack)* Mobilize for No Kings Day - June 14 * Postcards to Voters* Five Calls App🎧 Listen now—and let us know what you're doing in your own community. Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe

Have you ever stopped to think about what sparked your political awareness? In this episode of A Couple Thinks, we (Aaron and Lisa) take a step back from the chaos of current events and trace our personal paths through politics and activism, from childhood memories to adulthood engagement.Lisa remembers canvassing with her aunt and being involved in student government. Aaron recounts tagging along with his mom, a judge of elections, to the firehouse polling place in Pennsylvania—learning early on that democracy is both serious and communal (and occasionally involves fire trucks). From student council campaigns to family commitments, our early experiences planted the seeds for a lifetime of engagement.We also explore how our political lives intersected as young adults—volunteering, organizing, and even lobbying Congress together through Jewish leadership programs. Over time, our activism evolved: from the hopeful energy of Obama’s 2008 campaign to the gut-punch of 2016 and the organizing energy that followed. We also talk about what we’ve learned from our (now adult) kids, how activism looks different in different life stages, and why we’re still writing postcards and showing up when it matters.If you’re feeling burnt out, nostalgic, or just curious about what shaped us into the people behind the podcast, this episode offers a reflective, and hopefully fun, look at the personal side of civic action. Plus, stay tuned at the end for our joyful moments, which this time involve one long-neglected hot tub.Resources: Find your local No Kings Day, June 14th, event at: Mobilize.usEmail us at: [email protected] Get full access to A Couple Thinks at acouplethinks.substack.com/subscribe