Politics Not Included

In this episode, Kansas Senator and Gubernatorial candidate Ethan Corson shares some of the pivotal experiences in his life that shaped the person he is today. From growing up playing baseball to being a college athlete, earning a law degree, working in Washington D.C., and then making the move back to Kansas. He discusses why he took the leap into public service and what drives him to continue this work running for Governor.    We discuss: His background and early life in Kansas The impact of baseball had on his leadership style Balancing family life with a political career His approach to relationship-building in the legislature The potential for fresh perspectives in governance   Chapters 00:00 Introduction  01:30 Ethan Corson's Journey to Politics 04:35 The Challenges of Running During a Pandemic 07:30 Impact of Team Sports on Personal Development 13:12 Family Life and Balancing Politics 17:25 The Value of Younger Representatives in Office 19:42 Ethan Corson's Leadership Style 24:21 Engaging with the Community through Town Halls 26:25 Building Relationships in Governance 30:12 The Importance of a Supportive Team 34:17 What it’s Like Being a Politician 36:30 The Personal Side of Public Service 39:29 The Importance of Voting 41:49 Engaging Younger Voters   Donate to the Transparent Campaign Initiative: https://donorbox.org/transparent-campaign-initiative-donation   Follow the Transparent Campaign Initiative:  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562761207682 TCI Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/transparentcampaigns/ Politics Not Included Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/politicsnotincluded/ Website - https://transparentcampaigns.org   Follow Ethan Corson: Website- https://ethanforkansas.com Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/ethanforkansas/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ethanforkansas/

In this episode, Kansas Democratic Gubernatorial candidate Marty Tuley shares his journey from rural Kansas to running for governor, emphasizing the importance of grassroots campaigning, leadership, and the power of persistence. Discover how his outsider perspective and commitment to the middle ground aim to reshape Kansas politics.   We discuss: His rural Kansas roots and decision to run for Governor Challenges of running as the “third-wheel” candidate His leadership style and vision for Kansas Family support and balancing personal life with campaign   Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:01 Meet Marty Tuley 06:16 The Right Time for Change in Kansas 09:44 Balancing Business and Politics 12:18 Challenging Political Norms 15:11 The Third Wheel: Overcoming Skepticism 19:20 Approach to Bridge Divides in the Legislature 25:15 Leadership Style and Vision for Kansas 27:23 Balancing Family and Political Ambitions 29:15 Passion Projects and Political Commitment 30:26 Mental Resilience in Politics 32:12 Persistence in the Face of Challenges 33:17 Navigating Public Recognitions 34:50 The Role of Social Media in Campaigning 38:06 Engaging the Average Voter 39:30 Finding the Right Lieutenant Governor 42:43 Public Perception of Politicians 51:23 The Importance of Voting and Civic Engagement   Donate to the Transparent Campaign Initiative: https://donorbox.org/transparent-campaign-initiative-donation   Follow the Transparent Campaign Initiative:  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562761207682 TCI Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/transparentcampaigns/ Politics Not Included Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/politicsnotincluded/ Website - https://transparentcampaigns.org   Follow Marty Tuley: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/martytuley Website - https://www.tuley4gov2026.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tuley_for_gov

In this episode, Kansas State Senator Cindy Holscher and Democratic Gubernatorial Candidate shares her journey from her early career to running a campaign for Governor. She discusses her legislative experiences, motivations for running, and her vision for Kansas, emphasizing community engagement, public education, and the importance of voting. She discusses her motivations, approach to campaigning, and the role of family support in her political career.   We discuss: Her early career and legislative experience Motivations for running for Governor and navigating the Kansas Legislature The importance of community and voter engagement Family support and balancing personal life with political ambitions   Chapters 00:00 Introduction  01:19 Journey into Politics 03:27 Legislative Experience and Motivation to Run 05:05 Campaigning: Challenges and Growth 10:22 Mental Resilience in Politics 12:55 The Importance of Legislative Experience 15:20 Community Engagement and Substitute Teaching 18:00 Balancing Campaigning and Legislative Duties 19:10 Leadership Style and Governance Vision 21:10 Family Support of Political Ambitions 25:04 Balancing Commitments and Responsibilities 26:30 Understanding Legislative Sessions 29:07 Committee Assignments and Bill Processes 31:03 How to Engage with Legislators 32:05 Navigating Social Media as an Elected Official 35:28 Choosing a Lieutenant Governor 36:44 Misconceptions About Running for Office 41:17 Empowering Voter Engagement 43:27 The Importance of Voting in Primaries   Donate to the Transparent Campaign Initiative: https://donorbox.org/transparent-campaign-initiative-donation   Follow the Transparent Campaign Initiative - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562761207682 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/transparentcampaigns/ Website - https://transparentcampaigns.org   Follow Cindy Holscher – Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cindyforkansas Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cindyforkansas/ Website - https://cindyforkansas.com

Kansas Republican Gubernatorial candidate Charlotte O'Hara shares her previous political experience and vision for a transparent, accountable leadership rooted in conservative principles. She discusses her personal journey, how her personal experiences shaped her political viewpoints, and the importance of integrity in politics. We also discuss her reputation for speaking directly about her political beliefs and how that honesty has helped her Gubernatorial campaign.    We discussed: Her personal journey from farm life to politics Campaign principles and political integrity Her personal experience with tax incentives in Kansas Why she chose to homeschool her children How she stays true to her core beliefs despite outside pressures   Chapters 00:00 Introduction  02:16 Charlotte's Political Background and Rural Roots 04:05 Personal Experiences with Property Taxes and Business 08:20 Why Run for Governor: Addressing Statewide Issues 09:45 Family Business in Manufacturing 11:35 Impact of Property Taxes on Small Businesses 13:02 Motivation and Career Shift to Run for Office 14:21 Federalization of Education and Local Control 15:49 Family Life and Personal Values 18:42 Standing by Core Principles 20:33 Legislative Experience and Policy Stances 22:40 Transparency, Accountability, and Political Integrity 25:44 Campaign Strategy: Clear Values and Direct Communication 28:50 Vision for Leadership and Community Engagement 32:25 Supporting the Party Platform or You’re Personal Stances 35:23 Closing Remarks and Why it’s Important to Vote   Follow Charlotte O’Hara: Website: https://oharaforkansas.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oharaforjoco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oharaforkansas/   Donate to the Transparent Campaign Initiative: https://donorbox.org/transparent-campaign-initiative-donation   Follow the Transparent Campaign Initiative - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562761207682 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/transparentcampaigns/ Website - https://transparentcampaigns.org

In this episode, Dr. Sharilyn Ray shares how her experiences with abuse, homelessness, and foster care shaped her career in social work and her passion for helping others. She discusses her inspiring journey from overcoming personal adversity to running as an independent candidate for Governor of Kansas. She discusses her platform focused on community and transparency, emphasizing the importance of bringing diverse voices to the table to solve problems. Balancing family life, running a nonprofit, and a statewide campaign, Dr. Ray emphasizes resilience, faith, and the importance of civic engagement.    Key Topics Dr. Sharilyn Ray's personal journey and background in social work Her platform focused on community, transparency, and solutions The challenges and opportunities of running as an independent candidate Fostering and family life balancing with political ambitions   Chapters 00:00 Introduction  02:45 Dr. Ray's Journey: From Personal Struggles to Advocacy 10:59 Family Life and Fostering 19:10 Motivations and Challenges of Running for Governor 22:16 The Independent Path: Building a Platform from Scratch 27:42 Overcoming Misconceptions of an Independent Candidate 33:30 Personal Growth and Community Engagement 39:23 Logistics of Running for Governor 43:35 The Importance of Voting and Representation   Follow Dr. Sharilyn Ray: Website - http://www.rayforkansas.com/ TikTok - @rayforkansas Instagram - @rayforkansas Email - [email protected] Facebook - Dr. Sharilyn Ray for Kansas   Donate to the Transparent Campaign Initiative: https://donorbox.org/transparent-campaign-initiative-donation   Follow the Transparent Campaign Initiative - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562761207682 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/transparentcampaigns/ Website - https://transparentcampaigns.org

Kansas gubernatorial candidate Stacey Rogers shares her journey from entrepreneur to political candidate, discussing her campaign strategies, views on political experience, social media engagement, and the importance of grassroots support. Discover how her unique perspective is reshaping political campaigns and inspiring change in Kansas.   We discuss: Grassroots campaigning and community engagement The role of social media in political campaigns The importance of authentic leadership over legislative experience   00:00 Meet Stacey Rogers: Kansas Republican Gubernatorial Candidate 02:05 Traveling Kansas: Building a Campaign One Town at a Time 03:51 From City Council to Gubernatorial Race 04:20 Why Stacey Decided to Run for Governor 06:39 Balancing Business and Politics 10:34 Personal Life and Sacrifices in Campaigning 14:28 Myths About Political Experience 16:24 Campaign Finance and Grassroots Support 21:04 Deciding Not to Participate in the GOP Debate 28:51 Social Media as a Campaign Tool 33:06 Engaging with Supporters and Critics 38:40 What Should the Public Know About Campaigning 43:31 The Humanity of Candidates and Voters 48:30 Handling Uncertainty and Enjoying the Journey  51:50 Choosing a Lieutenant Governor 55:42 Legacy and Future Impact 56:13 The Importance of Voting 57:15 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks   Follow Stacy: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/StacyRogersforKansas Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stacyforkansasgovernor?igsh=aWxqdjQ0NmVtOXRu Website - https://stacyrogersforks.com   Donate: https://donorbox.org/transparent-campaign-initiative-donation   Follow the Transparent Campaign Initiative - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562761207682 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/transparentcampaigns/ Website - https://transparentcampaigns.org

Margaret Shabazz, Wichita City Council District 6 candidate discusses her career path, the importance of community advocacy, and the influence of her family legacy on her commitment to social change. Margaret emphasizes the significance of voting and community engagement, reflecting on her personal experiences that shaped her leadership style and her decision to run for office.Sign up for our newsletter: transparentcampaigns.kit.com/newsletterFollow us on social media:Instagram @transparentcampaigns or @politicsnotincludedFacebook: Transparent Campaign Initiative 

LaWanda DeShazer, candidate for the Wichita City Council District 1, shares her background from her extensive community involvement to some ins and outs of her current campaign. LaWanda discusses her educational background, her passion for helping others, and her experience as a first time candidate. She emphasizes the importance of community engagement and voter trust in local government. Sign up for our newsletter: transparentcampaigns.kit.com/newsletterFollow us on social media:Instagram @transparentcampaigns or @politicsnotincludedFacebook: Transparent Campaign Initiative 

Abena Taylor shares her journey from Jamaica to the United States, educational background, and career path leading to her candidacy for the Manhattan City Commission. The conversation explores her passions for pottery and dance, her supportive family life, and the challenges of running a campaign. Abena emphasizes the importance of community engagement, informed voting, and the need for a supportive environment for all residents.Sign up for our newsletter: transparentcampaigns.kit.com/newsletterFollow us on social media:Instagram @transparentcampaigns or @politicsnotincludedFacebook: Transparent Campaign Initiative 

Amber Starling, Manhattan City Commission candidate, shares her backstory including how she was raised and what led her to start Good Witch Cleaning Services. She also talks about starting the Free Store to provide free clothes to community members in need.Sign up for our newsletter: transparentcampaigns.kit.com/newsletterFollow us on social media:Instagram @transparentcampaigns or @politicsnotincludedFacebook: Transparent Campaign Initiative 

Jayme Minton, Manhattan City Commissioner, discusses some of her experience being appointed to the Commission, what it's like to get a campaign going, and tells us a little bit about her beer collab with Manhattan Brewing Company. Sign up for our newsletter: transparentcampaigns.kit.com/newsletterFollow us on social media:Instagram @transparentcampaigns or @politicsnotincludedFacebook: Transparent Campaign InitiativeWebsite: transparentcampaigns.org

Martha Sweeney shares her background moving from California to England to Belgium to settle down in Manhattan, Kansas. We also discuss her experience as a rower and what led her to run for commission.Sign up for our newsletter for updates and announcements: transparentcampaigns.kit.com/newsletterFollow us on social media:Instagram @politicsnotincludedFacebook: Transparent Campaign InitiativeVisit our website for more information on the Manhattan City Commission election: transparentcampaigns.org

Scott Seel, Manhattan City Commission Candidate and Realtor, shares the path and experiences that shaped his career. We also dive into some of the realities of running a campaign.  Sign up for our newsletter: https://transparentcampaigns.kit.com/newsletterFollow us on social media:@PoliticsNotIncluded@TransparentCampaignsFacebook: Transparent Campaign InitiativeWebsite: TransparentCampaigns.org

Manhattan City Commissioner, Peter Oppelt, discusses his career path from the Army to an economist and data analyst. He is seeking re-election in November and shares the experience of what led him to run in the first place.Sign up for our newsletter or follow us on social media for new episode announcements.Newsletter: transparentcampaigns.kit.com/newsletterInstagram @transparentcampaignsFacebook: Transparent Campaign InitiativeWebsite: transparentcampaigns.org

In this episode, we get to know Jayme Morris-Hardeman. She is a current USD 383 School Board member seeking re-election in November. She is also the Executive Director of Thrive! Join us as we discuss her career path from biochemist to Executive Director of several non-profits. We also dive into her previous experience as a Manhattan City Commissioner and a real example of why every vote matters. Follow us on social media for new episode announcementsInstagram @transparentcampaignsFacebook: The Transparent Campaign InitativeWebsite: TransparentCampaigns.org

Meet Courtney Hochman, mom of three currently finishing a PhD in Student Affairs in Higher Eduction. She is also a candidate for the USD 383 School Board. On this episode she shares her journey in education as a student, experience in higher education, and why she is running for the school board. Follow us for new episode announcementsInstagram @transparentcampaignsFacebook: Transparent Campaign Initiative 

Meet Lew Faust, retired Director of Business Services for USD 383. He is also a candidate for the USD 383 School Board election in November. On this episode he shares insights from a 43-year career education, his experience with the USD 383 district, and some of the things he's navigated in his first run for an elected position. Follow us for new episode announcements:Instagram @transparentcampaignsFacebook: Transparent Campaign Initiative

Meet Kristin Brighton, Co-Owner and Principle of New Boston Media Group. She is also the current USD 383 School Board President. On this episode she shares her favorite parts of owning a media company, insights from 6 years of serving on the school board, and how local leadership shapes the place we call home.Follow us for new episode announcements:Instagram @TransparentCampaignsFacebook: Transparent Campaign Initiative