Rise & Resist

In this episode, we converse with Zane Gustafson, author of Polemic for Democracy, a book that explores much needed reform of the United States Constitution.Zane shares insights on rethinking the constitution and the need for a multi-party system. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the writing process of his book, messages to different groups in America, reforms for the executive and judicial branches, outside influences on his analysis, and the potential impact of constitutional reforms. Zane also discusses the challenges of cynicism, the need for systemic change, and the power of the people in addressing issues like climate change and healthcare. We end with a discussion on collaboration and Zane's upcoming projects.TakeawaysProtests are growing, Trump's briefings are concerning, media ecosystem is deteriorating, and constitutional reform is needed.The need for a multi-party system and the impact of gerrymandering on competitive voting. Constitutional reforms can address systemic issues and empower the people to bring about change.Cynicism can be a barrier to change, but action and collaboration are essential for progress.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Zane Gustafson and Constitutional Reform28:52 Writing and Wrapping Up the Book39:15 Outside Influences and International Examples46:27 Empowering the People and Addressing Key Issues

In this episode, we converse with Robin McGehee of Together Across America (https://www.togetheracrossamerica.org/), a campaign that aims to bring Americans together across the nation.We begin with a discussion on the state of democracy and the concerns about the current political climate. We then transition to a debate about the SAVE Act, followed by a discussion on the war in Iran. We then transition to introducing Together Across America and its mission. Our conversation covers the journey of mobilizing a movement, branding and engaging the community, building and expanding the movement, an intersectional approach, the role of action as an antidote to despair, and we conclude with calls to action and a message of hope.TakeawaysState of democracy and concerns about the political climateDebate on the SAVE Act and its implications Mobilizing a movement through cultural shifts and civic engagementAction is the antidote to despairChapters00:00 The State of Democracy07:32 The War in Iran21:08 Mobilizing a Movement27:41 Activism Journey and Growth33:00 Intersectional Approach

In this episode, we converse with Dana and Libby of Visibility Brigade (https://www.visibilitybrigade.com/), a campaign that supports hundreds of grassroots activist groups engaging in overpass bannering around the country.We begin our discussion touching on the Texas primaries, James Talarico's victory, and the impact of grassroots funding and democratic interaction.We then transition to speaking with Dana and Libby about the formation of the Visibility Brigade, the practice of overpass bantering, and the joy and therapy found in activism.We also explore the impact of community in activism, highlighting the importance of connected and calm activists, the power of personal and communal engagement, and the history of bridge activism.Finally, we delve into the crafting of impactful messages, the organic growth of ideas and messages, the spread of messages organically, the use of materials and innovation in activism, safety and liability in activism, and the process of starting a Visibility Brigade chapter.TakeawaysCommunity-driven activismImpact of grassroots movements Community-driven activismCreative expression in civil resistanceChapters00:00 The Power of Grassroots Activism06:14 Overpass Bantering and Community Building18:41 Building Bridges and Creating Community25:04 The Continuity of Activism38:49 Building Community through ActivismVisibility Brigade: https://www.visibilitybrigade.comResistTrump Campaign: https://www.resisttrump.us

In this episode, our co-hosts Nevin and Francesca converse with Stacie Freasier, Director of Development with Pace e Bene Nonviolence Service (https://paceebene.org/).The conversation covers a range of topics including the Epstein files, Trump's approval rating, ICE activities, and nonviolent resistance. Stacie shares her insights on nonviolence, empathy, and the role of emotions in activism.TakeawaysNonviolent resistance is a strategic and effective approach to social change.Empathy and self-compassion are essential components of nonviolent activism.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Resist Trump Campaign06:00 Introduction to Stacie Freasier and Nonviolent Resistance23:07 The Value of Emotions and Relationships in Activism36:38 Practicing Nonviolence and Self-CompassionPace e Bene Nonviolence Service: https://paceebene.org/paceebeneSelma Center for Nonviolence, Truth, and Reconciliation: https://www.selmacenterfornonviolence.org/ResistTrump Campaign: https://www.resisttrump.us/

In this episode, the Rise and Resist Podcast sits with Jimmy Flannigan, Former Austin City Council Member (https://www.jimmyflannigan.com/).We begin with a news rundown and introduction, followed by a discussion on the power of local government, engaging with local officials, and the influence of local leaders in shaping public narrative. We then shift to the shifting dynamics of resistance and drawing hope for the future.TakeawaysLocal Politics and ResistanceShifting Dynamics of ResistanceHope for the FutureChapters00:00 News Rundown08:49 Local Politics and Resistance14:22 Engaging with Local Officials to Resist ICE19:25 Influence of Local Leaders in Shaping Public Narrative24:34 Shifting Dynamics of Resistance30:20 Hope for the Future

The conversation begins with an introduction to Kevin Bell and the Free Information Group, followed by a discussion on the latest news in America, focusing on the impact of Trump's regulatory rollback on climate and a conversation about Epstein and ICE kidnapping. The discussion then transitions to an in-depth understanding of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), highlighting its universal applicability and bipartisan support. The conversation delves into the use of FOIA as a tool for uncovering government actions and promoting accountability and transparency. It explores the impact of FOIA on uncovering decision-making processes and government activities.TakeawaysFOIA is a cornerstone of small d democratic governmentFOIA has universal applicability and bipartisan support FOIA is a powerful tool for accountability and transparencyFOIA can be used to uncover government actions and decision-making processesChapters00:00 Understanding the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)23:11 Government Actions and Accountability

The podcast begins with an introduction to the Resist Trump Campaign and its mission to coach activists in nonviolent civil resistance. The conversation then shifts to the grassroots resistance efforts of Minnesota 5051 and the impact of resistance on daily life, highlighting the palpable atmosphere and community support. The episode concludes with calls to action and a special thanks to the guest.TakeawaysNonviolent resistanceCommunity supportChapters00:00 Introduction and Mission14:07 Impact of Resistance on Daily Life22:07 Calls to Action and Conclusion

In this episode, the Rise and Resist Podcast sits with Mike Ignatowski, Organizer with ResistAustin (www.resistaustin.us). During the episode, we examine the impact of the murder of Alex Pretti in Minnesota and its significance for the resistance movement. The conversation delves into the importance of midterm elections, the firing of Greg Bovino, and the international response to ICE agents at the Winter Olympics. Personal reflections on family history and the fight against authoritarianism are also highlighted.TakeawaysImpact of Minnesota events on the resistance movementImportance of midterm elections and political impactChapters00:00 Introduction to the Rise and Resist Podcast05:55 Minnesota Events and Their Impact on the Resistance Movement11:45 Importance of Midterm Elections and Political Impact20:05 ICE Agents at the Winter Olympics and International Response25:38 Personal Reflections and Family History31:18 Framing the National Debate and the Fight Against Authoritarianism

The podcast features Nevin Kamath and Matt Koesters discussing the Resist Trump Campaign and its efforts to promote nonviolent civil resistance. They explore the challenges to democracy, introduce guest Vanessa K from the #FoxTakedown activist campaign, discuss the impact of activism, and share insights on social media and community building. The conversation highlights the importance of hope and unity in the fight against authoritarianism.TakeawaysNonviolent civil resistanceCommunity buildingChapters00:00 Introduction to the Resist Trump Campaign06:01 Challenges to Democracy19:35 Social Media and Content Creation27:33 Reflection and Community Impact

ResistTrump Campaign Director Nevin Kamath and Fortify Democracy Founder and ResistTrump Pro-Bono Advisor Matt Koesters speak with Scott Peoples, the Executive Director of Veterans for Responsible Leadership.Veterans for Responsible Leadership: https://www.vfrl.org/Fortify Democracy: https://www.fortifydemocracy.com/ResistTrump Campaign: https://www.resisttrump.us/

#ResistTrump Campaign Director Nevin Kamath and Fortify Democracy Founder and #ResistTrump Pro-Bono Advisor Matt Koesters talk about recent actions by the Trump regime and the lawful, nonviolent civil resistance movement opposing it.