Boiling Point Cincinnati

PODCAST · news

Boiling Point Cincinnati

A labor-friendly radio show & podcast hosted by Mark Niehaus, Michelle Dunn and Clayton Adams. The trio look into political events and labor union topics happening in the past, present and future. The podcast is based out of Cincinnati, Ohio and originally airs on WAIF 88.3 FM. Music removed from podcast episodes.

  1. 94

    Episode 93: Building Power on the Job and at the Ballot Box

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Bryan Georgilis, Jayme Scott, and Connor Malloy of IBEW Local 212 for a conversation about life in the labor movement and the value of union membership. The group discusses the role the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers plays in supporting tradespeople, while Bryan also shares why he’s running to become president of Local 212 and the vision he has for the union’s future.In hour two, Clayton talks with Jack Cunningham, lead organizer for the Cincy Precinct Project, about the group’s organizing efforts and how its endorsed candidates performed in Tuesday’s primary election. The conversation expands into a broader breakdown of several key local races, election results, and what they could mean moving forward politically in Hamilton County.Send us Fan Mail

  2. 93

    Episode 92: Cincinnati Interfaith Workers’ Center + The Childcare Crisis

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Brennan, Tim, and Patience from the Cincinnati Interfaith Workers' Center to discuss how the organization supports working-class people across the region. They highlight the resources and advocacy they provide, while also previewing their upcoming May Day celebration on May 1st and what it represents for workers locally and beyond.In hour two, Mark takes a closer look at the growing childcare crisis facing working-class families. He breaks down the rising cost of care, the strain it places on households, and how access to affordable childcare is directly tied to people’s ability to work, earn a living, and stay afloat in today’s economy.Send us Fan Mail

  3. 92

    Episode 91: From Sewer Systems to the County Commission

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Alison Kromer and Andrea Baker from Communities United for Action (CUFA) to discuss the organization’s role in the Greater Cincinnati community. They break down how CUFA is advocating for residents and influencing policy decisions around sewer and stormwater infrastructure—issues that directly impact neighborhoods across the region.In hour two, Mark and Clayton react to the recent Hamilton County Commission Democratic primary debate. They share their takeaways from incumbent Stephanie Summerow Dumas and challengers Meeka Owens and Herman Najoli, highlighting key moments, policy differences, and what the race could mean for the future of the county.Send us Fan Mail

  4. 91

    Episode 90: Community Voices and the Cost of War

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Sue Bilz, a retired Cincinnati Public Schools math teacher and board member of the West Price Hill Community Council. Sue reflects on her career in education and discusses how she’s stayed actively engaged in her community after retirement, continuing to advocate for students and neighborhoods alike.In hour two, Clayton and Mark examine how the war in Iran is hitting working people here at home. They break down the ripple effects on gas prices, groceries, and everyday costs. The pair also takes a hard look at who actually benefits from war, and why it’s rarely working-class families.Send us Fan Mail

  5. 90

    Episode 89: Green Living and Culture Wars in the Classroom

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Chuck Lohre of the Greater Cincinnati Earth Coalition for a thoughtful conversation on sustainability in today’s world. They explore green energy, sustainable construction and architecture, and the importance of LEED certification—while also discussing what individuals and communities can do to reduce their ecological footprint.In hour two, Mark and Clayton dive into two increasingly contentious issues in Ohio classrooms: book bans and declining student vaccination rates. They examine how these debates are playing out in schools, what’s driving them, and the real impact on students, educators, and public education as a whole.Send us Fan Mail

  6. 89

    Episode 88: Top-Down Reform vs. Bottom-Up Organizing

    In hour one, Michelle takes a closer look at the billionaire influence shaping education reform across the country. She unpacks who is funding these initiatives, how their policies are making their way into public schools, and what the real impact is on students, educators, and local communities.In hour two, Clayton and Mark are joined by Christy Pember of Coffee. Compassion. Action. to discuss grassroots political organizing and leadership development. Christy shares how everyday people can get involved, build collective power, and take on leadership roles in their communities.Send us Fan Mail

  7. 88

    Episode 87: Dave Baker on Union Power + Karen Brownlee on Ohio’s Future

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Dave Baker, Business Manager for Ironworkers Local 44, to reflect on his journey in the labor movement and the real value of union membership. From wages to benefits, job security to training opportunities, Baker explains why being in a union offers far more than just a paycheck.In hour two, Clayton and Mark are joined by State Representative Karen Brownlee of Ohio’s 28th House District. Brownlee shares what her first term in the legislature has been like, the challenges she’s navigating at the Statehouse, and the key priorities she’s working to advance for her constituents.Send us Fan Mail

  8. 87

    Episode 86: Bryan Hambley Talks Voting Access and CPS Confronts Financial Reality

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Bryan Hambley, Democratic candidate for Ohio Secretary of State, for a wide-ranging conversation on the power and responsibility of the office. They break down what the Secretary of State actually does and how Hambley would expand access to the ballot box and strengthen election integrity for voters of all political backgrounds.In hour two, Mark and Clayton turn their attention to the growing financial challenges facing Cincinnati Public Schools. They unpack what a “new money” levy really means, why it’s becoming increasingly necessary, and what’s at stake for students, educators, and the broader community if action isn’t taken.Send us Fan Mail

  9. 86

    Episode 85: Dismantling Diplomacy & Debating the SAVE Act

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Alex Gainer, a former U.S. diplomat and employee of United States Agency for International Development. The two walk through the timeline surrounding the dismantling of the agency and examine why the loss of USAID significantly weakens American diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and global development efforts.In hour two, Clayton and Mark take a critical look at the controversial SAVE Act currently moving through Congress. They break down the competing arguments surrounding the bill, discuss how it could affect voting access, and explore the broader political motivations behind one of the most debated election proposals in recent years.Send us Fan Mail

  10. 85

    Episode 84: Investigating School Board Partners + Jonathan Bradner for State House

    In hour one, Michelle takes a closer look at a growing local effort to reshape Cincinnati Public Schools through the group School Board Partners. She examines the group’s goals and political strategy, and discusses why many educators and community members believe their push toward privatization could have serious consequences for CPS students, teachers, and public education in Cincinnati.In hour two, Clayton and Mark sit down with Jonathan Bradner, candidate for Ohio’s 29th State House District. Jonathan shares his background, his priorities for working families, and how he believes he can bring meaningful change to the Ohio Statehouse if elected.Send us Fan Mail

  11. 84

    Episode 83 - Ballots and Brotherhood: Labor’s Political Moment

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Jim Cole, Political Director for the Northern Kentucky AFL-CIO, for a candid conversation about how politics and government decisions shape the labor movement—for better and for worse. They discuss legislation, elections, and the real-world impact public policy has on union strength, worker protections, and organizing efforts across the country.In hour two, Mark breaks down the key issues and candidates appearing on voters’ upcoming primary ballots. He reflects on which candidates align with the interests of working families and which may pose challenges for the labor movement, offering a clear-eyed look at what’s at stake this election cycle.Send us Fan Mail

  12. 83

    Episode 82: The Fight for Mail and the Fight for Votes

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Don Hoffragge, President of APWU Local 164, as well as Marquita "Ms. Nickie" Wilson, APWU Local 164's legislative representative. The trio discuss the challenges currently facing the United States Postal Service. They explore workforce pressures, policy threats, and why the future of the postal system remains deeply connected to public service, labor protections, and reliable mail delivery for communities nationwide.In hour two, Clayton and Mark investigate reports of the federal government pressuring states to hand over voter roll data and proposals to centralize election systems. They break down what’s being proposed, what legal and constitutional questions are being raised, and what it could mean for voter privacy, state authority, and election security.Send us Fan Mail

  13. 82

    Episode 81: Organizing Voters, Testing Students

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Cyan Perez, volunteer with the Working Families Party, for a conversation about the organization’s history, mission, and political strategy. They explore how the party operates, what it hopes to accomplish, and how grassroots organizers can influence elections and public policy from the ground up.In hour two, Mark speaks with Julie Sellers, President of the Cincinnati Federation of Teachers, about Cincinnati Public Schools’ decision to include iReady test scores on student report cards. Julie explains why many educators are concerned about the growing reliance on standardized testing and how it can impact teaching, learning, and student well-being.Send us Fan Mail

  14. 81

    Episode 80: Economic Democracy Meets the Ballot Box

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Ellen Vera, co-director of Co-op Cincy, a nonprofit that supports a growing network of worker-owned cooperatives across Greater Cincinnati. They break down how co-ops actually function, why democratic ownership matters, and how worker-led businesses can build wealth locally instead of shipping profits out of the community.In hour two, Clayton and Mark welcome Caleb Price, candidate for Ohio’s 30th State House District. They discuss Caleb’s campaign priorities and what he hopes to accomplish if elected. Later, the conversation turns to some troubling developments in Ohio’s charter school landscape, unpacking accountability concerns and what they mean for public education.Send us Fan Mail

  15. 80

    Episode 79: The Great Society Then and Now + Seth Walsh for Treasurer

    In hour one, Michelle takes a deep dive into President Lyndon B. Johnson’s “Great Society” agenda—examining the origins of landmark programs like Medicare, Medicaid, federal education funding, and anti-poverty initiatives. She explores how those policies reshaped the country and makes the case for why many of those social safety net programs remain essential for supporting everyday Americans today.In hour two, Clayton and Mark sit down with Ohio Treasurer candidate Seth Walsh. The trio discuss Seth’s time serving on Cincinnati City Council, his approach to fiscal responsibility, and why he believes the Treasurer’s office can play a more active role in strengthening Ohio’s economic future.Send us Fan Mail

  16. 79

    Episode 78: Nonviolence in Action & Trump's Greenland Obsession

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Samantha Searls, Program Director at Ignite Peace, to explore the organization’s history and mission. They discuss the long tradition of nonviolent action in the face of injustice and why disciplined, community-based resistance remains one of the most powerful tools for social change.In hour two, Mark and Clayton turn to international politics and economic fallout, examining Donald Trump’s renewed push regarding Greenland and his threats to impose tariffs on NATO allies. The conversation breaks down what tariffs actually do, how they ripple through supply chains, and why working-class families often feel the impact first.Send us Fan Mail

  17. 78

    Episode 77 - At a Crossroads: Democrats, Grassroots Power, and Ohio 2026

    In hour one, Michelle takes a hard look at the current struggles facing the Democratic Party and the choices it must make as the midterms approach. She discusses the direction the party needs to move to reconnect with voters and highlights the Cincy Precinct Project, encouraging everyday people to get involved in local politics by stepping up as Precinct Executives and building power from the ground up.In hour two, Mark and Clayton provide updates on Vivek Ramaswamy’s faltering gubernatorial campaign, unpacking what’s going wrong and why it matters. They also walk through the growing field of candidates running for Ohio’s statewide offices on the 2026 ballot, offering a clear-eyed overview of the political landscape heading into a pivotal election cycle.Send us Fan Mail

  18. 77

    Episode 76: Labor Legends & New Battles - Jimmy Hayden, Starbucks and Amazon

    In hour one, Mark sits down with Jimmy Hayden, former Executive Secretary of the Greater Cincinnati Building Trades. Jimmy reflects on a lifetime in the labor movement as a union ironworker, sharing stories from the job site and lessons from decades of organizing. The conversation also takes a critical look at Cincinnati’s continued lack of project labor agreements and what that means for workers, wages, and local accountability.In hour two, Clayton digs into two major national labor fights. First, he breaks down the growing Starbucks Red Cup Rebellion and what it reveals about worker organizing in the service sector. Then, he examines the ongoing legal battle between Amazon and the NLRB, unpacking what’s at stake for federal labor protections and the future of union enforcement.Send us Fan Mail

  19. 76

    Episode 75: The Work of Resistance and the Harm of Somali Day Care Conspiracies

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Christy Pember, a founding member of the Indivisible group Coffee, Compassion, Action. The two discuss what it means to organize as part of the political resistance during the Trump administration’s second term—covering grassroots mobilization, sustaining momentum, and the emotional toll and urgency of this political moment.In hour two, Clayton investigates viral claims of “Somali day care fraud” emerging from the right-wing media ecosystem. He breaks down what is actually known, separates fact from fiction, and examines how conspiracy theories and misinformation are weaponized to target immigrant communities and fuel fear.Send us Fan Mail

  20. 75

    Episode 74: The Worst Grinches of the Year & Evan Nolan on Housing and Labor

    In hour one, Michelle unveils the annual Worst Grinches of the Year list—calling out the politicians, power players, and institutions across our city, state, and nation who have been especially harmful to working-class people and labor unions over the past year.In hour two, Clayton sits down with Cincinnati City Councilmember Evan Nolan for a wide-ranging conversation on development, the housing affordability crisis, project labor agreements, and the role local government can play in building a more equitable city for workers and families.Send us Fan Mail

  21. 74

    Episode 73: Building Ohio & Watching Ohio - Ironworkers, HB 56, and Police Surveillance

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Dave Baker, Business Manager for Ironworkers Local 44. Dave shares stories from his years in the labor movement, offering an inside look at the skilled, demanding, and often dangerous work ironworkers perform to keep our cities standing. Together, they explore the culture of the trade, the challenges facing the industry, and why strong unions remain essential for protecting workers.In hour two, Clayton takes a deep dive into Ohio House Bill 56, a sweeping proposal that would impose heavy regulations on legal marijuana while rolling back key civil liberties for Ohioans. He breaks down what the bill would actually do, who it would impact, and why it’s raising serious concerns among advocates. Later, Clayton examines the Cincinnati Police Department’s new drone program, weighing the potential benefits against the privacy, civil rights, and accountability questions the technology brings.Send us Fan Mail

  22. 73

    Episode 72: Weingarten’s Warnings & Ramaswamy’s Proposal

    In hour one, Michelle reflects on key insights from AFT President Randi Weingarten’s new book, Why Fascists Fear Teachers: Public Education & the Future of Democracy. She unpacks Weingarten’s arguments about the central role educators play in defending democracy, the rising threats facing public schools, and why the fight for a fully funded, inclusive, and equitable public education system has never been more urgent.In hour two, Mark and Clayton break down Vivek Ramaswamy’s proposal to extend the school day and shift to a year-round school calendar. They examine the pros, the cons, the real-world costs, and the political motivations behind the idea—offering a grounded, labor-informed perspective on what such a policy would mean for students, families, and educators.Send us Fan Mail

  23. 72

    Episode 71: Thankful for Progress & Organizing in Appalachian Ohio

    In hour one, Michelle highlights the progressive victories she’s thankful for in an increasingly chaotic political climate. She spotlights recent wins for working-class people happening in states across the country—proof that meaningful progress is still being made, even in tough times.In hour two, Clayton sits down with Collin Docterman, chair of the Scioto County Democratic Party and candidate for Ohio’s 90th State House District. They discuss what it means to organize in Appalachian Ohio, the challenges and opportunities facing Democrats in the region, and Collin’s vision for representing one of the state’s most unique and overlooked districts.Send us Fan Mail

  24. 71

    Episode 70: Union Battles in NKY & School Board Leadership in Finneytown

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Tim Donoghue, president of the Northern Kentucky Labor Council. Tim reflects on his decades of organizing, his path into labor leadership, and the evolving challenges facing unions across Kentucky. Together, they unpack the fights ahead for working families and what it takes to build durable worker power in a politically difficult climate.In hour two, Mark speaks with Jamie Rea, longtime political organizer and current Finneytown Local School District board member. Jamie shares stories from a life of civic engagement and offers insight into the key initiatives he’s championed on the school board—from strengthening local schools to navigating the pressures facing public education today.Send us Fan Mail

  25. 70

    Episode 69: Labor Power & Dr. Amy Acton’s Vision

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Will Minehart, Southwest Representative for the Ohio AFL-CIO, for a deep dive into life inside the labor movement. They discuss how unions shape economic stability, protect workers’ rights, and continue to serve as one of the most powerful tools for improving the lives of everyday Ohioans.In hour two, Mark and Clayton interview Dr. Amy Acton, candidate for Ohio Governor. Together, they explore Dr. Acton’s political vision, her approach to leadership, and how her platform aims to uplift working-class families across the state.Send us Fan Mail

  26. 69

    Episode 68: Mamdani’s Win and Hamilton County’s Blue Wave

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Olivia Merrill, secretary of the Democratic Socialists of America–Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky chapter. They break down Zohran Mamdani’s historic victory, exploring why this race mattered nationally and locally. Together, they listen to key moments from Mamdani’s electrifying victory speech and offer analysis on the themes, strategy, and movement energy behind his campaign.In hour two, Clayton and Mark are joined by Isaac Goff-Mitchell of RGM Strategies, who brings fresh insight from the campaign trail after working with multiple Democratic candidates who notched major wins across Hamilton County. The trio walk through the big takeaways from Election Night, unpacking the decisive races in Cincinnati, the surrounding suburbs, and across the county—and what these results mean for the region’s political future.Send us Fan Mail

  27. 68

    Episode 67: Labor Nightmares, Election Dreams

    In hour one, Michelle shines a spooky spotlight on the “ghouls and monsters” haunting today’s labor movement—from corporate greed to political attacks on workers’ rights. She explores the biggest threats unions and working people are up against right now.In hour two, Clayton and Mark shift gears to Cincinnati’s upcoming elections, previewing key races, offering predictions, and sharing their forecasts for how the results could shape the city’s future.Send us Fan Mail

  28. 67

    Episode 66: Women Lead, Teachers Speak

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Tamaya Dennard, Programs and Partnerships Manager at Represent Women. They reflect on Tamaya’s tenure at Cincinnati City Hall and her new role empowering more women to run for office and lead in political life.In hour two, Clayton and Mark provide the latest update on Ohio House Bill 186, examining how the proposal could reshape funding for school districts across the state. Later, Clayton talks with Bethany Cole, a Cincinnati Federation of Teachers member and CPS teacher, about the realities of teaching in a low-income urban public school and the challenges educators face daily.Send us Fan Mail

  29. 66

    Episode 65: Disability Rights and Immigration Wrongs

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Sara Bitter, board member for Sycamore Community Schools, to discuss her work at the Children’s Law Center and her role as a tireless advocate for children with disabilities. She shares how legal advocacy and public service can create meaningful change for students and families alike.In hour two, Mark and Clayton investigate ICE and its pattern of unlawful and problematic behaviors. They explore the controversial tactics used by the agency and highlight how cities like Portland and Chicago are standing up to resist federal overreach.Send us Fan Mail

  30. 65

    Episode 64: Faith in Action and Funding Under Fire

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Pastor Lesley Jones, faith organizer for the AMOS Project, to explore what justice work looks like through the lens of community faith. Pastor Lesley shares how she mobilizes congregations to confront inequities and build power for social change.In hour two, Clayton and Mark turn their focus to state and local education issues. They break down Ohio House Bill 186, a so-called property tax relief bill that could devastate school district funding across the state. Later, they provide an update on Dohn Community School, following the Cincinnati Enquirer’s reporting on the school’s troubling financial misdeeds.Send us Fan Mail

  31. 64

    Episode 63: Citizen Power and the Fight for CPS

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Angela Heinz, founder of Lattes and Liberty, to explore what political engagement can look like for everyday citizens—whether or not they have a history of activism. They discuss why it’s vital for people to get involved and how small steps can build collective power.In hour two, Clayton and Mark are joined by Cincinnati Public Schools Superintendent Shauna Murphy. They talk about how the school year is progressing, the strain of ongoing budget cuts, and why renewing Issue 28, the CPS levy, is paramount for the district’s future.Send us Fan Mail

  32. 63

    Episode 62: Evolving or Eroding? The State of Free Speech in America

    In this rare solo episode, Clayton investigates the pressing question: is free speech evolving or eroding in Trump’s America? He unpacks the state of public discourse in a polarized country, looking at the tension between protecting expression and curbing harmful rhetoric.Clayton also explores the digital battlefield—examining how the loosening of social media content moderation has accelerated the spread of misinformation and propaganda online. From political narratives to culture wars, this episode takes a hard look at what free speech means in the 21st century and whether democracy can withstand the challenges of an unchecked online ecosystem.Send us Fan Mail

  33. 62

    Episode 61: Tariffs and Tension - What Trade Wars Mean for Midwest Workers

    Clayton takes a close look at Trump’s trade war and how tariffs are rippling through the economy. He zeroes in on the rising costs of groceries and automobiles, showing how working-class families are bearing the brunt of policies pitched as tough on foreign competitors but costly at home.Send us Fan Mail

  34. 61

    Episode 60: Human Services at Risk, City Council in Play

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Mike Moroski, Executive Director of the Human Services Chamber of Hamilton County. They talk about the current state of human services, the challenges facing providers, and Mike’s perspective from his time on the Cincinnati Public Schools Board of Education.In hour two, Mark and Clayton dive into the Cincinnati city council race, examining the competing slates of candidates. They break down endorsements from the Hamilton County GOP, the Hamilton County Democratic Party, and the Charter Committee, analyzing what each slate means for the future of city politics.Send us Fan Mail

  35. 60

    Episode 59: Organizing Amazon, Understanding Appeals

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Brandon Hill, an organizer with the Amazon Labor Union (ALU) at KCVG. Brandon shares what it’s like to build a new chapter of the ALU from the ground up, and reflects on his experiences with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) as part of a broader push for worker power.In hour two, Mark and Clayton talk with Judge Ginger Bock from the First District Court of Appeals. Judge Bock breaks down the appellate court process, offering listeners a clear explanation of how appeals shape the legal system and what it truly means to serve as a judge.Send us Fan Mail

  36. 59

    Episode 58: UAW on the Line, CPS on the Ballot

    In hour one, Michelle brings listeners the latest on the UAW strike unfolding at General Electric in the Cincinnati area. She also shares highlights from AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler’s 2025 Labor Day speech, offering national context to the ongoing fight for workers’ rights.In hour two, Mark takes a closer look at the Cincinnati Public Schools Board of Education race. He breaks down the candidates, their platforms, and the viability of their campaigns—offering listeners a clear view of what’s at stake for students, families, and the future of CPS.Send us Fan Mail

  37. 58

    Episode 57: Organizing Change, Defending Education against PragerU

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Celeste Treece, founder of Commen Strategies, to talk about her journey in community organizing. Celeste shares how she’s been able to energize everyday people, build grassroots power, and challenge entrenched systems.In hour two, Clayton and Mark turn their attention to PragerU, a conservative media company pushing to enter public school classrooms across the country. They weigh the potential impacts on teachers, students and curriculum integrity, asking what happens when ideology collides with education?Send us Fan Mail

  38. 57

    Episode 56 - NIOSH Under Fire, Democracy on the Brink

    In hour one, Michelle speaks with Micah Niemeier-Walsh, Vice President of AFGE Local 3840, about the Trump administration’s assault on NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) and what it means for worker safety across the country. They discuss the critical role NIOSH plays in protecting workers and the risks of undermining it.In hour two, Mark and Clayton turn their attention to the judicial branch—examining how its independence is being eroded and how America’s democratic institutions are sliding toward authoritarianism. They unpack recent developments and explore what’s at stake for the rule of law.Send us Fan Mail

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    Episode 55: Inside the Urban Deer Debate and the Bengals’ Big Deal

    In hour one, Michelle talks with Milli Schafer from the Cincinnati Urban Deer Advocates about the growing debate over urban deer hunting in city parks. They explore both the environmental and ethical considerations surrounding population control in urban green spaces.In hour two, Mark and Clayton dig into the newly signed lease agreement between the Cincinnati Bengals and Hamilton County. They examine whether this is a fair deal for taxpayers and unpack the broader issue of public subsidies for billionaire-owned sports franchises.Send us Fan Mail

  40. 55

    Episode 54 - Hard Times: Immigration, Taxes, and Tumult in Cincinnati

    In hour one, Michelle speaks with Nancy Sullivan from Transformations CDC about the impact of Trump-era policies on working-class immigrants in Cincinnati. They explore how national politics are creating local hardships—and what can be done to support vulnerable communities.In hour two, Mark and Clayton break down the week’s biggest news stories from Cincinnati and across Ohio. Topics include rising property taxes, updates on federal education funding, and their candid take on the recent downtown brawl that’s sparked conversations across the city.Send us Fan Mail

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    Episode 53 - Marking Milestones: Disability Justice & One Year of Boiling Point

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Neil Kelly, Deer Park city councilman and passionate disability rights advocate. They talk about Neil’s journey in public service, his work to make communities more accessible, and how local leadership can drive real inclusion.In hour two, Mark and Clayton celebrate one year of Boiling Point! They take listeners behind the scenes of producing a labor-focused podcast, reflect on the past year’s biggest moments, and interview each other to share more about their lives, motivations, and what fuels their fight for working-class issues.Send us Fan Mail

  42. 53

    Episode 52: School Budgets, Political Slates, and the Dark Side of MAGA

    In hour one, Mark delivers a local news roundup featuring key updates from Cincinnati Public Schools as they face federal funding cuts, the unveiling of a new Charter Committee slate, and an unexpected leadership lesson for corporate executives inspired by the Bengals' offseason moves.In hour two, Mark takes a deep dive into the QAnon movement—tracing its origins, its merger with the MAGA base, and the growing belief that the Jeffrey Epstein scandal may shape how history remembers a potential second Trump term.Send us Fan Mail

  43. 52

    Episode 51: Solving Homelessness and Shaking Up Politics

    In hour one, Michelle speaks with Josh Spring, Executive Director of the Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition, about the realities facing Cincinnati’s unhoused population. They discuss the root causes of homelessness and what community members—and local government—can do to create lasting solutions.In hour two, Mark and Clayton turn their attention to Elon Musk’s proposed 'America Party.' They examine Musk’s possible motivations, the challenges of launching a third political party, and what such a platform could mean for American democracy.Send us Fan Mail

  44. 51

    Episode 50 - Recovery and Reality: Drug Courts and the Ohio Budget

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with Judge Nicole Sanders and Keshia Jones from the Hamilton County Drug Court to explore how the court system can play a role in recovery rather than punishment. They break down how drug courts work and how they’re helping Hamilton County residents overcome addiction and rebuild their lives.In hour two, Mark and Clayton dig into the good, the bad, and the ugly of the newly passed Ohio state budget, breaking down what it means for working-class Ohioans across education, healthcare and economic policy.Send us Fan Mail

  45. 50

    Episode 49 - Pedals and Politics: Biking Cincinnati, Waging War

    In hour one, Michelle talks with Judi LoPresti, owner of SPUN Bicycles in Northside, about biking culture in Cincinnati. They discuss grassroots advocacy, the city’s bike infrastructure, and what it will take to make streets safer and more accessible for cyclists.In hour two, Mark and Clayton weigh the potential consequences of U.S. involvement in another Middle East conflict. They dig into how war impacts the working class—on the battlefield, at home, and in the economy.Send us Fan Mail

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    Episode 48 - Organize, Resist, Survive: Civic Power in a Polarized America

    In hour one, Michelle welcomes Melissa English, Deputy Director of Ohio Citizen Action, for a conversation about grassroots organizing and how everyday people can drive real societal change. From environmental justice to civic engagement, Melissa shares insights from decades in the movement.In hour two, Mark and Clayton explore the tension between resistance and retreat in the age of Donald Trump. They examine how some institutions are actively pushing back against authoritarianism, while others opt for self-preservation—raising questions about what it means to fight or survive in today’s political climate.Send us Fan Mail

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    Episode 47 - What’s at Stake: Classrooms, Culture and a MAGA Governorship

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with author and professor Sarah Stitzlein to explore the importance of standing up for public education in today’s political climate. They also dive into Sarah’s new book, Teaching Honesty in a Populist Era, and what it means for educators, parents, and democracy.In hour two, Mark and Clayton take a hard look at the political ambitions of Vivek Ramaswamy, imagining what Ohio might look like under his leadership as a MAGA-aligned governor.Send us Fan Mail

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    Episode 46 - Holding the Line: TSA, Tax Levies, and Teacher Unions

    In the first hour, Clayton and Mark break down three major stories making headlines: a federal judge orders the federal government to reinstate the TSA collective bargaining agreement, a new Ohio proposal that could make it harder to pass local property tax levies, and the heated debate over the future of Hyde Park Square.In the second hour, they’re joined by Scott LeCates, a teacher union organizer with the Jefferson County Teachers Association. Scott shares insights on labor organizing in education, current challenges facing teachers, and what’s at stake for public schools.Send us Fan Mail

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    Episode 45: Labor's Biggest Adversaries & Katie Hofmann Interview

    Hour One: Michelle dives into a hard-hitting investigation of the forces working against the labor movement. From the Heritage Foundation and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to Koch Industries and ALEC, she unpacks how these powerful players shape policies that weaken worker protections.Hour Two: Mark and Clayton are joined by Katie Hofmann, a member of the Ohio State Board of Education. Together, they explore the latest developments within the board and take a critical look at how Ohio’s legislature is threatening the future of public education.Send us Fan Mail

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    Episode 44: Climate Change is Class Warfare

    In hour one, Michelle sits down with climate activist, Chris Heckman, to discuss the Cincinnati Chapter of Citizens' Climate Lobby. In hour two, Mark and Clayton look into how climate change negatively impacts working-class Americans.Send us Fan Mail

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

A labor-friendly radio show & podcast hosted by Mark Niehaus, Michelle Dunn and Clayton Adams. The trio look into political events and labor union topics happening in the past, present and future. The podcast is based out of Cincinnati, Ohio and originally airs on WAIF 88.3 FM. Music removed from podcast episodes.

HOSTED BY

Clayton Adams, Michelle Dunn & Mark Niehaus

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