Elected Officials Of America: Underdog Stories podcast

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

Player FM - Internet Radio Done Right

Lagt til eight år siden

Innhold levert av James Spadola. Alt podcastinnhold, inkludert episoder, grafikk og podcastbeskrivelser, lastes opp og leveres direkte av James Spadola eller deres podcastplattformpartner. Hvis du tror at noen bruker det opphavsrettsbeskyttede verket ditt uten din tillatelse, kan du følge prosessen skissert her https://no.player.fm/legal.

Insights Unlocked

1
How Anthropologie gets omnichannel right (and what to learn) 27:29

for 4 dager siden27:29

Spill senere

Lister

Lik

Likt

27:29

Episode web page: https://tinyurl.com/2b3dz2z8 ----------------------- Rate Insights Unlocked and write a review If you appreciate Insights Unlocked , please give it a rating and a review. Visit Apple Podcasts, pull up the Insights Unlocked show page and scroll to the bottom of the screen. Below the trailers, you'll find Ratings and Reviews. Click on a star rating. Scroll down past the highlighted review and click on "Write a Review." You'll make my day. ----------------------- In this episode of Insights Unlocked , we explore the evolving landscape of omnichannel strategies with Kate MacCabe, founder of Flywheel Strategy. With nearly two decades of experience in digital strategy and product management, Kate shares her insights on bridging internal silos, leveraging customer insights, and designing omnichannel experiences that truly resonate. From the early days of DTC growth to today’s complex, multi-touchpoint customer journeys, Kate explains why omnichannel is no longer optional—it’s essential. She highlights a standout example from Anthropologie, demonstrating how brands can create a unified customer experience across digital and physical spaces. Whether you’re a marketing leader, UX strategist, or product manager, this episode is packed with actionable advice on aligning teams, integrating user feedback, and building a future-proof omnichannel strategy. Key Takeaways: ✅ Omnichannel vs. Multichannel: Many brands think they’re omnichannel, but they’re really just multichannel. Kate breaks down the difference and how to shift toward true integration. ✅ Anthropologie’s Success Story: Learn how this brand seamlessly blended physical and digital experiences to create a memorable, data-driven customer journey. ✅ User Feedback is the Secret Weapon: Discover how continuous user testing—before, during, and after a launch—helps brands fine-tune their strategies and avoid costly mistakes. ✅ Aligning Teams for Success: Cross-functional collaboration is critical. Kate shares tips on breaking down silos between marketing, product, and development teams. ✅ Emerging Tech & Omnichannel: Instead of chasing the latest tech trends, Kate advises businesses to define their strategic goals first—then leverage AI, AR, and other innovations to enhance the customer experience. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "Omnichannel isn’t just about being everywhere; it’s about creating seamless bridges between every touchpoint a customer interacts with." – Kate MacCabe 💬 "Companies that truly listen to their users—through qualitative and quantitative insights—are the ones that thrive in today’s competitive landscape." – Kate MacCabe Resources & Links: 🔗 Learn more about Flywheel Strategy 🔗 Connect with Kate MacCabe on LinkedIn 🔗 Explore UserTesting for customer insights for marketers…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

Del

Serier hjem•Feed

Join us on our journey to interview an elected official in each of the 50 states. With a focus on profiling underdogs who beat the odds, find out what motivated our officials to run, the adversities they overcame, and what we need to do to work together again. Do you think politics is only for a select and chosen few? Think again.

41 episoder

#Government #James Spadola #News

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

updated for 6 år siden

Del

Serier hjem•Feed

41 episoder

#Government #James Spadola #News

Semua episode

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Amy Sinclair - Iowa's Senate Majority Whip 32:19

for 6 years siden32:19

32:19

R-Amy Sinclair, Majority Whip for the Iowa Senate, knows hardship, struggle, and tragedy. She grew up in an apolitical family in rural Iowa without telephone service. She had a baby when she was 19 years old. During her first race in her late 20s against a popular three-term incumbent, she was told by her own Party chair, “You’re going to lose.” Her brother tragically passed away during that campaign. Yet she overcame those odds and tragedy to become the youngest serving County Supervisor in Iowa, and is currently the Majority Whip in the Iowa Senate caucus. 1:40 - Was politics in your blood? 4:10 - How was your first race? 5:20 - What was the darkest time of the campaign? 6:40 - How did you get over learning curve of figuring out what to do? 7:10 - How were you treated as the young female who shouldn’t have won? 11:00 - How did you win the primary so handily? 13:10 - Did the other candidates work as hard as you? 14:25 - Would you have had the confidence to say you were the “best candidate” if not on Board of County Supervisors? 14:50 - What would you say to candidates that don’t have the confidence you did? 16:45 - What was the learning curve in the senate like for you? 18:00 - Any personal habits to help you with stress? 19:00 - What does it say about the GOP that only 2/29th of the Iowa Senate are women? 20:10 - How can we have a conversation and remain friends when discussing sticky issues? 22:10 - “My job goes beyond working on a single issue.” 24:10 - “The level of incivility we have reached - I don’t understand it.” 26:10 - What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned? 29:10 - What is the biggest personal challenge you’ve overcome? 30:40 - Best advice you’ve received?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Saira Blair - West Virginia's Youngest Delegate 25:37

for 7 years siden25:37

25:37

At the age of 17 in 2014, Saira Blair ran for a West Virginia delegate seat and beat an incumbent Republican in a primary to eventually become the youngest legislator in the USA. Hear how she managed her overwhelming fear of public speaking, how she dealt with death threats she received over legislation, and how to handle embarrassing social media situations. 1:30 - Why aren’t you running for re-election? 2:50 - What was the reaction from your family when you told them you were going to run against an incumbent Republican? 4:30 - Was there any point on the campaign trail you almost gave in to the people who told you were crazy? 5:10 - What was the worst public speaking experience you had? 6:00 - How did you keep yourself going when you wanted to quit? 7:36 - How did the local party perceive you when you challenged an incumbent Republican? 10:15 - What would you say to a young person who doesn’t have a strong mentor? 12:15 - Did you face any sexism on the campaign trail or in the legislature? 15:15 - How do you handle the emotions of the negativity? 15:40 - What is some of the best advice you’ve received? 17:00 - What would you say to a young person concerned about something negative about them popping up on social media? 17:45 - What do you think the biggest personal challenge you’ve overcome is? 22:15 - What can we do to come together as a country again?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Josh Zakim - Boston City Councilor 13:38

for 7 years siden13:38

13:38

Josh Zakim was elected to Boston City Council in 2013 when he was 29 years old. He is currently running for Secretary of State in Massachusetts against long-time incumbent William Galvin in the Democratic Primary. Will Zakim be the first Boston City Councilor to win a statewide office in Massachusetts since 1958? 1:40 - What is the day in the life of a Boston City Councilor? 2:40 - What prompted you to put your name on the ballot as opposed to a behind the scenes role like your father? 3:22 - Was there ever a time you thought you might not be successful? 4:10 - Is a progressive wave sweeping Boston? 5:20 - Why did your opponent insult all of Boston City Council? 6:30 - Does it concern that a Boston City Councilor has not won a statewide seat since 1958? 7:20 - What would you say to someone who is thinking about running for office but doesn’t come from a political family? 8:25 - Is there a divide between Boston and the rest of Massachusetts? 9:20 - What is your biggest accomplishment as a Boston City Council? 10:40 - What is something you would do over with your time on City Council? 10:20 - What is the best advice you’ve been given? 12:40 - What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve overcome in your life?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Senator Ikley-Freeman - From Homeless to Oklahoma's Youngest Legislator 41:39

for 7 years siden41:39

41:39

Senator Alison Ikley-Freeman is Oklahoma’s youngest state senator. She won a special election in 2018 as a Democrat in a conservative district that President Trump won by 40 points in 2016, and was represented by a Republican for over 20 years. NBC chose this headline when Senator Alison Ikley-Freeman won: “Lesbian Democrat pulls off election victory in conservative Oklahoma”. While perhaps going for some shock value, the headline represents just how much of an underdog Senator Ikley-Freeman was in a red district. From experiencing homelessness with a daughter before entering politics, to only putting her name on the ballot as a placeholder, listen to Senator Ikley-Freeman’s episode for an inspiring story about overcoming great odds. 2:10 - How has the mood been since the Oklahoma’s teacher’s strike ended? 3:20 - What’s the been the most personal story that has hit you the most? 5:10 - Can you talk about being homeless? 7:15 - What was your initial interest in politics? 8:40 - Were there no precinct chairs because the Republican Party has more power? 9:10 - How did the special election pop up? 14:50 - What is the salary of a state senator in Oklahoma? 20:10 - Where was the Blue Wave money during your election? 20:40 - What was the darkest time of the campaign for you? 23:10 - Did having an alternative lifestyle in a conservative district come up at all? 24:05 - What was the biggest lesson you learned? 25:00 - Talk to me about election night. 28:00 - Is there a spirit of bipartisanship in Oklahoma? 29:40 - Is there a lesson for the country in how Oklahoma does politics? 30:40 - What has been the biggest surprise for you since you’ve been in office? 31:50 - Has Oklahoma made any progress in dealing with the opioid epidemic? 33:05 - What steps would you take to deal with the opioid epidemic? 34:40 - We discuss ramifications of saying “I don’t know” to a question. 36:00 - What would you say to someone about why someone with an unconventional background should run for office? 37:10 - What do you think we can do as a country to unify again? 40:00 - Am I hearing you say focus on local issues as opposed to national issues?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Julie Emerson - Louisiana’s Youngest Legislator 41:18

for 7 years siden41:18

41:18

At the age of 26, R-Julie Emerson beat a Democratic incumbent in 2015 to become the youngest legislator in Louisiana. The star of a viral video , she believes that millennials should gravitate towards the GOP and move away from progressive politics. As a legislator, Julie is dedicated to fighting off bad legislation and repealing some nonsensical laws still on the books in Louisiana, such as a mandatory 72-hour waiting period for a marriage license. Take a listen and see if the next wave of GOP legislators has any hope in winning over new generations.…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Philadelphia Legend - Ed Rendell 32:46

for 7 years siden32:46

32:46

Ed Rendell is a Philadelphia legend. Ed began his career as an elected official when his campaigning in bars and subways paid off, and he was elected as the youngest District Attorney in Philadelphia history at the age of 32 in 1976. He served as the Mayor of Philadelphia from 1991-2000 and Governor of Pennsylvania from 2003-2011. It wasn’t exactly an easy road. Ed lost back to back elections in 1986 and 1987 and was thought to be finished politically. Take a listen to hear how he got his start, and how he battled back after losing two elections. :05 - What is a day in the life of Ed Rendell now? 2:30 - Do you miss holding elected office? 12:10 - Can you talk about prosecuting Mumia Abu-Jamal? 16:40 - What kind of resistance did you get for the second Mayoral run? 17:40 - What can we do to ease racial tensions today? 20:44 - You never had a Democratic legislature. How did you work with the Republicans? 23:00 - Do you think there’s a fear to compromise by the purists? 25:50 - Are we one-step closer to getting rid of the electoral college? 27:30 - What’s the biggest lesson you’d want to impart on people?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Paulette Jordan - The First Native-American Governor? 29:54

for 7 years siden29:54

29:54

Paulette Jordan recently resigned from being the only Native American legislator in Idaho to focus on her run for Governor. If elected, she would be the first Governor elected as a Democrat in Idaho since 1990, the first female Governor in Idaho ever, and the first Native American Governor ever in the USA. Will the Blue Wave propel her over all those odds? 2:40 - Did you face any discrimination as an indigenous female growing up? 4:40 - Can you talk about your first campaign and what motivated you to run? 9:55 - Did you come a lot closer than you expected? 10:10 - What was the biggest lesson learned from 2012? 10:00 - Did you anticipate running again after 2012? 11:55 - Did you do anything differently in 2014? 12:40 - What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned representing your people? 14:00 - How do you get things done when you’re in the minority party? 16:00 - Do you think you have a reasonable shot at winning the Governor’s race? 18:10 - What would you say to someone who is concerned about running for office but doesn’t fit the conventional profile? 20:10 - How has the opioid epidemic affected Idaho? 23:00 - What is the best advice you’ve been given? 24:40 - What would you do as Governor to unify us as country? 27:00 - Has anyone tried to talk you out of running for Governor?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Melanie Stambaugh - Washington's Youngest Legislator 38:11

for 7 years siden38:11

38:11

Melanie Stambaugh beat a 5-term incumbent at the age of 23 to become Washington’s youngest legislator, and is the youngest female elected to the Washington state legislature since 1934. If beating a 5-term incumbent wasn’t tough enough, she is now battling 44 ethics violations and facing thousands of dollars in fines and legal fees, simply due to sharing public Facebook and YouTube videos. Melanie is also a musician, self-taught graphic designer, and a small-business owner who is not seeking re-election to focus on her confidence coaching business, You Impression . 2:37 - Melanie talks about her time playing the marimba. 3:30 - What was your first thought about running for office? 5:30 - Who was the first person you told you were running for office? 6:30 - Can you go into the background of your business? 7:30 - Did you have any nagging in your head that was telling you not to run? 8:20 - How was the experience of the campaign? 9:10 - What was the most negative aspect of your campaign? 11:40 - Do you think the negative mailers hurt her in the end? 12:05 - Any other resistance about running for office? 13:35 - What were the emotions the night you run? 14:10 - Melanie talks about allocating $2 million towards a school. 12:20 - What would you say to another young female who doesn’t have the confidence to run? 14:20 - Did your team ever help you when you felt down? 16:08 - What lessons do you have to getting along with people who don’t like you? 16:50 - Can you talk about the Ethics Committee convening? 18:10 - Were you the first legislator to share the Facebook videos? 20:30 - What is the composition of the Ethics committee 20:52 - Do you think you’re being targeted because you’re a young, Millenial female? 21:30 - Will this Ethics committee help you at the end of the day? 23:50 - How have the marimba concerts to pay the legal bills been going? 25:00 - Are the concerts themselves a potential ethical concern? 26:00 - Can you talk about the heroin epidemic? 27:50 - What can we do as a country to come together again? 29:45 - What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome in your life? 31:00 - What is the best advice someone has given you? 31:45 - What can the country learn from Washington politics? 33:00 - How will President Trump affect the Republican Party? 35:40 - Do you face pressure from the Party being so bipartisan? 37:20 - What would your message to America be?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Chloe Eudaly - From Bookstore Owner to Portland, OR City Council 40:17

for 7 years siden40:17

40:17

Chloe Eudaly didn’t finish high school, but she still managed to beat a Harvard Law School graduate to become one of 8 woman ever elected to Portland City Council in 2016. A local book-store owner for decades, she was out-raised nearly 5 to 1 and yet still became the first candidate to beat an incumbent since 1992. Hear our conversation about she pulled off such an upset, how being a single-mom impacted her campaign, her thoughts on how legalizing marijuana has affected Oregon, and more. 3:00 - Chloe talks about having to close her bookstore. 3:45 - How do you go from running a bookstore to running for office and beating an incumbent for the first time since 1992? 8:20 - What was the reaction from close friends about you running for office? 8:45 - How much did you raise? 10:00 - Did you think you had a chance after getting 28% of the vote in the run-off? 11:10 - What was the reaction from the Democratic Party when you announced? 12:30 - Did anybody talk to you about dropping out? 13:30 - How has your son having cerebral palsy affected your political view points? 15:10 - What was the darkest time of the campaign? 16:30 - What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned since being in office? 20:20 - When did Oregon legalize marijuana and what has the experience been? 23:20 - What lessons learned would you pass on to other legislators about legalizing marijuana? 26:30 - How has the heroin epidemic affected Portland? Any progress with policy? And has legalizing marijuana affected the situation? 31:30 - What would you say to someone who is considering running for office? 35:30 - What can we do as a country to come together again?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Paul Bailey - State Senator for Tennessee 29:45

for 7 years siden29:45

29:45

Senator Paul Bailey represents an area of rural Tennessee where Donald Trump received a whopping 75% of the vote. In this episode, we talk about the real estate boom going on in Nashville, how the state legislature has supported tourism in Tennessee, the reasons behind Senator Bob Corker not running for re-election, the heroin epidemic, and more. 2:00 - Is CB Trucking a family business? 2:30 - How much overlap is there between your industry and legislation? 3:00 - What was your first interest in politics? 4:15 - How did the party politics play into you being appointed? 6:30 - What resistance did you get from the party? 7:15 - Can you talk about how your wife came to accept you running for office? 9:05 - Can you take me to the darkest time of your primary campaign? 11:45 - What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned as an elected official? 13:30 - Can you talk about the heroin epidemic in Tennessee and any progress made? 15:15 - Has the state done anything to help Broadway Street to be what it is today? 16:45 - Has local control helped Broadway Street? 17:52 - What is the best advice someone has given you in your life? 19:15 - What is the biggest personal challenge you’ve overcome? 21:00 - What can we do as a country to unify again? 22:00 - Do you think it’s important for young people to get involved, and how can they? 23:20 - What other advice would you give to a young person seeking to run for office? 27:00 - How is Senator Corker not running for reelection affecting Tennesseans?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Candidate Series - Jordan Hines - Delaware State Senate 26:56

for 7 years siden26:56

26:56

Jordan Hines is the youngest candidate for state senate in Delaware for the 2018 election cycle. He is in the midst of a 3-way primary for the District 3 seat currently held by Robert Marshall, who was first elected 12 years before Jordan was born. In this episode, Jordan and I delve into his childhood in the foster care system, how the arts impacted him, what kind of resistance he has gotten from people about running, City Council’s discretionary fund, and more. 2:20 - How has the race been going for you so far? 2:38 - What are the constituents telling you? 3:15 - Do you feel intimidated by the enormity of what you are taking on? 3:55 - Have you had any conversations with Robert Marshall or Tizzy Lockman? 4:20 - Can you speak more about growing up in the foster care system? 6:00 - Have you had any contact with your birth parents? 7:00 - How did the arts impact you? 9:20 - What did you do at the Register of Wills office and City Council? 11:00 - What is your take on the City Council’s discretionary fund? 11:40 - What would you do to prevent spending excesses? 13:50 - What is your burning issue? 16:50 - Has the party tried to talk you out of running? 19:10 - Have any public officials been behind you 100%? 20:00 - Why do you think it is important for young people to get involved? 21:40 - What policy proposals do you have in regards to the heroin epidemic? 22:40 - What would you do to help unify the country? 25:30 - What would your message to be the country?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Interview with Tom Byrne, Delaware Public Media 12:28

for 7 years siden12:28

12:28

On January 31, 2018, I sat down with Tom Byrne of Delaware Public Media . Tom was kind enough to let me rebroadcast this as an EOA episode. Tom's write-up about it can be viewed here and says: "In a political climate that has become increasingly fractured and divisive, politicians at times seem more like partisan caricatures rather public servants.But a former State Senate candidate here in the First State is trying to get beyond the rhetoric to learn more about people holding political office around the country, telling their stories rather than delving into their positions on policy. Last fall, James Spadola, an Iraq War vet and former Newark policeman, launched Elected Officials of America with the goal of interviewing lawmakers, largely unheralded ones, in all 50 states about why they pursued politics and the adversity many overcame to reach office. In this week’s Enlighten Me, we sat down with Spadola to chat about his podcast." Time stamps of questions: 0:47 - What was the inspiration for starting this podcast? 2:20 - Does the country need a more grassroots approach to politics? 3:40 - Why have you focused on more local level politicians? 4:40 - How come you focus on the person’s story and not policy? 6:40 - What are some of the consistent themes you’ve heard? 8:50 - How far along are you in the process? 9:60 - What is the reaction you get when reaching out to officials who don’t you? 11:20 - How has this podcast influenced you about running for office again?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Eddie Melton - Indiana's Youngest State Senator 39:52

for 7 years siden39:52

39:52

Eddie Melton won a 4-way Democratic primary in 2016 to join a lonely group of legislators: only 9 out of 50 state senators in Indiana are Democrats. He got his start in politics with an appointment to the state Board of Education by then Governor Pence in 2015. An outsider to Democratic politics, he didn’t participate in party politics prior to his election and is now the Deputy Chair of the state party. Hear us chat about the war on drugs, how he gets anything done as a Democrat in a Republican-controlled legislature (supermajorities in both houses), and more. 2:50 - Is Gary, Indiana an economically depressed area? 4:20 - Can you talk about being appointed to the State Board of Education? 6:20 - What was your background leading up to your appointment to the State Board of Education? 8:00 - Were you going to run even if your predecessor didn’t retire? 9:45 - Can you talk about your 4-way primary? 11:20 - What was the darkest time of your campaign? 13:10 - Can you go more in-depth about the resistance you faced? 15:00 - What is your approach as Deputy Chair? 16:45 - What do you say who isn’t embraced by the Party? 18:25 - How does a Democrat so drastically outnumbered get anything done in Indiana? 21:45 - Can you talk about your experiences with the politics of the who, as opposed to the what? 24:45 - What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned? 25:30 - Can you talk about the heroin epidemic in Indiana? 29:00 - What’s the biggest personal challenge you’ve overcome? 30:30 - What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? 34:00 - What can we do as a country to unify again? 38:00 - What can the country learn from Indiana?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Chicken Soup for the Candidate's Soul 24:44

for 7 years siden24:44

24:44

Does the campaign trail have you down and out? Tired of being told to drop out of the race, that you can't win, all the while missing every fundraising target you set? Have no worries - you're not alone and you're not the first. Countless underdogs before you have overcome considerable odds while faced with the same hurdles and difficulties that you're going through right now. In this recap episode, we hear from legislators from Alaska to Delaware who beat the odds: 2:00 - D-Matt Meyer beat a three-term incumbent to become County Executive of New Castle County, DE. He speaks about the troubles he had getting support from public officials, fundraising difficulties, and he shares a story from former Virgina Congressman Tom Perriello. Full episode here . 5:00 - I-Alex Torpey was elected Mayor of South Orange, NJ when he was 23 years old. He talks about people laughing at him when he knocked on doors, and he shares his thoughts on where the bar is set for people thinking about jumping into the ring. Full episode here . 7:20 - D-Rysheema Dixon survived a crowded field and was elected to an open at-large City Council seat in Wilmington, DE in 2016 when she was 29. She speaks about how she had to filter outside noise and chatter and listen to her gut about being ready to run, not other people. Full episode here . 8:25 - In what was the biggest political upset in Delaware in 2016, R-Anthony Delcollo beat a 26 year incumbent, who was also President Pro Tempore of the state senate. He pulled off that victory despite being out-registered 2 to 1. He reminds us where all modern-day entrenched incumbents started off, what people said to him about his race, and the importance of having a great team behind you. Full episode here . 10:45 - R-Colin Bonini was elected in 1994 when he was 29. He talks about the total lack of support he had from the Republican party, his thoughts on if and when people should run for office, and the lack of an age limit in politics. Full episode here . 13:15 - Maine's youngest state senator and US Senate candidate, R-Eric Brakey, beat a long-time Democratic incumbent in 2014 at the age of 26. He reflects on his own Party leadership finding primary opponents to run against him. Full episode here . 14:30 - R-Mike Ramone lost 4 races before winning a Delaware State House seat on his 5th attempt. He reflects on lessons from losing, how grueling the process was, and the importance of trust. Full episode here . 15:50 - D-Bill Ferguson was 27 years old when he beat a long time incumbent in a Democratic primary to become the youngest state senator ever in Maryland's history. He talks about how people thought he was crazy, how tough it was raising money, and why he would encourage young people to run for office. Full episode here . 20:40 - D-Marcia Ranglin-Vassell was born in Jamaica as one of 9 kids. She didn’t have running water growing up and worked as a housekeeper after coming to the states. She became a teacher and then, out of nowhere, she ran against the House Majority Leader in Rhode Island in 2016 and beat him in the Democratic primary. She talks about how you can’t be afraid to run. Full episode here . 22:00 R-David Wilson is Alaska's youngest state senator. He talks about a colleague who tried to talk him out of running for the seat he now holds, the lack of need for money in a local race, and the accessibility of politics to everyone. Full episode here .…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Congressman Tom MacArthur - Chair of Heroin Task Force 30:17

for 7 years siden30:17

30:17

Congressman R-Tom MacArthur (NJ) was elected to an open seat in the 3rd Congressional District in 2014, after fending off his Democratic challenger in a battleground district that President Obama won in 2012. Since in office, he has authored the MacArthur Amendment of the American Health Care Act, successfully fought for a $10,000 property tax deduction in the recent tax bill , and chairs the Bipartisan Task Force to Combat the Heroin Epidemic. He entered politics after a successful business career, and was the Mayor of Randolph, NJ before running for Congress. In this episode, we talk about the 2017 NJ election results and what they portend for the country, the contentious town hall debate that received nationwide press coverage, Roy Moore, the heroin epidemic, and more. 2:30 - Can you talk about your background in business and how it parlayed into going into politics? 4:15 - When did you get the political bug? 5:00 - What resistance did you get from the Party? 6:20 - Any dark times in any of those campaigns? 8:20 - TownHall discussion: “I think that was the most difficult moment I had.” 11:00 - Can you tell me more about the MacArthur amendment? 12:30 - What was the biggest lesson of navigating such muddy waters? 13:30 - How can we fix the discord in the country? 17:09 - How do you see Roy Moore’s potential election affecting the Republican Party? 20:00 - What’s the story on the ground about the 2017 election results in New Jersey? 21:00 - What’s the best advice someone has given you? 26:30 - Can you speak about the heroin epidemic?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Jewell Jones - Michigan's Youngest Legislator 31:16

for 7 years siden31:16

31:16

Jewell Jones was first elected to Inkster City Council at the age of 20, and became the youngest representative in Michigan history at the age of 21. He has met Mark Zuckerberg , is an auxiliary police officer, and is currently finishing up his senior year at the University of Michigan-Dearborn as an ROTC cadet. Take a listen as we discuss the past and future of Detroit, how Jewell wants us to stop understanding and start “over-standing” each other, and more. Instagram: @jewelljonesmi Facebook: Jewell Jones for State Representative 2:20 - What happened to Detroit, and are we coming back? 4:15 - Is Detroit on the upswing? 5:50 - Can you talk about your upbringing and how it positioned you to be successful? 7:15 - Did you get any resistance from the Party? 8:35 - Can you talk about how you made the leap from City Council to State Representative? 10:00 - Can you talk about how you were selected? 12:50 - Can you talk about being an auxiliary police officer and how it shows you both sides? 14:45 - What would you do to fix police-community relations? 16:00 - How was meeting Mark Zuckerberg? 17:30 - What would you say to someone worried about their social media past biting them? 19:30 - Take me to a time when you thought you might not win the campaign, and did you face any discrimination? 21:05 - What’s the biggest personal challenge you’ve overcome? 22:00 - What’s the best advice you’ve been given? 22:50 - What steps have Michigan taken to help with the heroin epidemic? 26:00 - How can politicians unify the country? 27:00 - What motivates you? 29:50 - What would your message to the country be?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Candidate Series: Elizabeth Lockman - Delaware State Senate District 3 32:41

for 7 years siden32:41

32:41

“Life is about how you respond to challenges.” - Elizabeth Lockman Delaware State Senate District 3 has a primary on its hands: long-time incumbent D-Robert Marshall is being challenged by Jordan Hines and Elizabeth Lockman . In this interview, Elizabeth Lockman reflects on how the beginning of her campaign has gone so far, some of the challenges she has overcome in her life, and what it is like being an unconventional political candidate. :40 - Can you talk about some of the emotions involved in campaigning? 4:40 - What has been the scariest part of your 6 week campaign? 7:20 - What kind of resistance have you faced from the Party? 9:45 - How would your teachers in middle and high school describe you? 12:20 - What’s the biggest challenge that you’ve overcome? 18:20 - Have we made any progress with education? 25:30 - What is the best advice someone has given you? 27:20 - What would you say to someone fighting the same fears you faced? 30:15 - What’s the best way for people to follow along?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Bryan Townsend - From Political Novice to Overthrowing Senate Leader 44:30

for 7 years siden44:30

44:30

State Senator D-Bryan Townsend was a political newcomer when he pulled off a gigantic upset in 2012 and beat Senate President Pro Tem Tony Deluca in a Democratic primary. Hear about some of the resistance he faced running against such a political heavyweight, how his political views were shaped by his father as a Newark police officer and his mom a teacher, and his thoughts on his 2016 Congressional run which had him finishing in second place. To view the show notes, head on over to www.electedofficialsofamerica.com/episode22 . 1:50 - How did your blue collar roots mold you? 2:40 - Any dissonance between you being the son of a police officer and progressive? 5:40 - What was your professional life before your election? 8:04 - Any political inspirations when you were younger? 10:45 - How was it received when you announced you were running against DeLuca? 13:15 - Take me to the harshest, specific reaction you got from the Party. 15:00 - Did you think you were going to win? 18:10 - Darkest time of your campaign? 19:30 - What do you think about Delaware legislators also having a government job? 23:15 - Did you get some support from behind the scenes players? 24:15 - What would your message be to young people who might not withstand pressure from Party people? 26:30 - What can we do to reduce the bitterness in the country? 29:30 - What can you say about your Congressional run? 32:30 - What big lesson did you learn from that race? 34:30 - What legislation dealing with the heroin epidemic has been successful? 37:30 - What’s been your biggest lesson and biggest surprise so far? 40:00 - What’s the best advice someone has given you? 41:05 - What book had the biggest impact on you? 42:15 - What would your message be to the USA?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Victor Pichardo - Bronx Politics: A Contact Sport? 39:41

for 7 years siden39:41

39:41

Victor Pichardo was first elected in a special election in 2013 to the New York General Assembly to represent the Bronx. Bronx politics is a unique animal: Victor’s predecessor, Nelson Castro, had to resign due to to a bribery scandal, and Victor’s opponent, Hector Ramirez, in 2014 was arrested for voter fraud (and still lost!). Hear how Pichardo’s interest in politics got sparked by Senator Schumer’s concern for his family after the tragic murder of Victor’s cousin, some insight into Senator Schumer as a person and not a politician, and how Victor survived a 6-way primary in 2013 and has won 2 elections since, even with a cheating opponent. 2:15 - Is politics a contact sport in the Bronx? 3:10 - What is your background? 8:15 - How is Senator Schumer as a person? 10:15 - What’s a good story about him? 13:05 - Take me to your six-way primary. 17:55 - What was the darkest time of your campaign? 21:45 - What did you learn from all the drama? 25:20 - What is the average age of the NY General Assembly? 26:40 - What would you say to a young person thinking about getting involved in politics? 30:10 - What else can we do as a country to unify and heal? 33:00 - What is the best advice someone has given you? 35:00 - What book would you assign students? 37:00 - What would your message be to the country?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Mike Purzycki - From NFL Player to Wilmington, DE Mayor 46:27

for 7 years siden46:27

46:27

Mike Purzycki survived a crowded Democratic primary and ousted the incumbent in September 2016. Hear his thoughts on Wilmington 11 months after his inauguration, a personal story about Wellington Mara, what he would do to help education in Delaware, and more. 2:00 - Can you talk about your upbringing in Newark, NJ? 6:30 - Mike reflects on his time with the NY Giants. 9:30 - What was your NFL salary? 10:30 - What prompted your first foray into politics? 12:00 - What made you think about running for Mayor? 15:00 - What kind of resistance did you get about running for Mayor? 16:15 - Why did people think you had no chance? 18:30 - What was the darkest time of the campaign? 19:50 - Can you talk about Eugene working in the cabinet? 21:00 - How has it been going as Mayor for 11 months? 23:30 - Can you talk about walking on the racial sensitivity tight-rope? 28:50 - Do you think the problems of Wilmington are too big for any one Mayor to fix? 33:00 - How would you fix Delaware’s educational system? 35:30 - How can we get City Council to function again? 38:30 - What has been hard to get done? 41:50 - What can we do as a country to come together again? 44:30 - What is the best advice you’ve ever received?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Aundre Bumgardner - Victorious at 20 Years Old 54:12

for 7 years siden54:12

54:12

While most kids at the age of 20 are partying it up in college or working, Aundre Bumgardner was campaigning to win elected office and become the youngest legislator in Connecticut history, which he did in 2014 at the expense of a long-time incumbent. He even won as a Republican in a very Democratic district. While Aundre lost his reelection bid in 2016, he is not done yet. If you want to have hope for America’s youth and future, listen in. 2:40 - Can you speak about your brother who is on the spectrum, and how it shaped you? 5:40 - Is it true you had Abe Lincoln on your birthday cake when you were 6? 6:35 - Aundre talks about his young interest in politics and his mentors. 8:05 - What was your first thought about running for office? 10:20 - What did people tell you when you told people you were running at 19? 14:20 - How was election night? 18:40 - What discrimination did you face as a person of color? 23:40 - What was your biggest lesson as an elected official? 29:20 - Any lesson learned from the losing in 2016? 31:40 - What would you say to a young person interested in running for office? 34:50 - How will your life not be the same? 37:40 - What have you been doing since? 43:40 - How can we come together as a country? 46:00 - Can you touch on how the heroin epidemic has affected CT?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Ben McAdams - The Golden Boy of Utah Democrats 35:55

for 7 years siden35:55

35:55

In 2012, Ben McAdams came back from a 20 point deficit in the polls to become Mayor of Salt Lake County in Utah. In August 2017, he disguised himself as a homeless person for two nights to get a better understanding of the issues facing the homeless population. In addition to those two rarities, he’s a Democrat in heavy Red Utah - a state that Mitt Romney won with 72% of the vote in 2012. He recently announced he is running for Congress against incumbent R-Mia Love, a race to watch in 2018. Hear Ben’s story, and see why if any Democrat has a chance in Utah, it’s Ben. 2:40 - Ben talks about his first thought about running for office. 4:10 - Ben talks about his first state senate race. 8:00 - Ben talks about first Mayoral race. 9:45 - How did you make up a 20 point deficit in the polls to win? 11:20 - Are you the golden boy of the Utah Democrats? 11:45 - How do you gel being a Democrat and a practicing Mormon? 13:30 - Can you speak about the “Don’t give to panhandlers” initiative? 16:00 - How did your family react to you going undercover as a homeless person? 20:00 - Ben goes in-depth about his experience as a homeless person. 21:45 - Can you discuss the scariest part of that experience? 23:10 - Can you touch on any lessons learned from the recent viral incident of the cop arresting the nurse in Salt Lake City, Utah? 25:00 - How is your week-long Congressional race going? 26:20 - What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from being an elected official? 27:40 - What can we do as a country to come together again? 29:00 - What would you say to a young person thinking about getting involved? 31:00 - What’s the biggest personal challenge you’ve overcome in your life? 32:50 - What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given in your life? 34:10 - What would your message be to the United States if you were at a podium?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Brian Pettyjohn - Victory in 37 Days 37:38

for 7 years siden37:38

37:38

Georgetown, DE native Brian Pettyjohn was elected to the Delaware State Senate on November 6, 2012. 38 days prior, he wasn’t even a candidate yet. After rumors of sex crimes surrounded the Republican candidate and likely winner Eric Bodenweiser, Brian began a campaign to win over not only the voters but also to even get his name on the ballot. Hear how he did both. 5:20 - Pettyjohn talks about his first race for Georgetown Town Council. 6:30 - Brian talks about why he decided to re-enter politics. 12:40 - Brian talks about his dealing with the Sussex County Democrats during the court ordeal getting him on the ballot. 14:40 - What was the most discouraging moment of any campaign of yours? 15:40 - Why would Eric Bodenweiser primary an incumbent with those charges looming? 16:30 - Did you consider listening to the criticism from the Republican leaders? 18:30 - What’s the biggest lesson lesson you’ve learned? 19:50 - Can you tell me about election night when you learned you won? 23:10 - What’s the best advice you ever received? 24:30 - What’s the biggest mistake you’ve made as a public official? 25:00 - What book had the biggest impact on you? 27:00 - What would you say to someone who might have been dissuaded from running for office? 28:10 - What’s the biggest personal challenge you’ve overcome? 29:20 - Can you reflect on your recent public relations incident? 35:00 - What can we do as a country to come together?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Rob Jones - A True American Hero 36:22

for 7 years siden36:22

36:22

File this one under “Future Elected Officials of America.” In 2010, Rob Jones volunteered with his Marine Corps unit to go to Afghanistan. While searching for Improvised Explosive Devices, Rob was struck by one, causing both of his legs to be amputated just above the knee. Rather than sit around and sulk, Rob is pushing forward in life while raising funds and awareness for veterans’ causes. On Veterans Day 2017, he completed a full month of marathons: 31 marathons in 31 days. I had the privilege of chatting with Rob the day before he completed his month of marathons. Take a listen, and please don’t be shy about donating to his worthy cause at Rob Jones Journey . 2:50 - Can you talk about enlisting in the Marines? 3:45 - Do you come from a military family? 3:55 - You grew up on a farm in Virginia? 4:45 - Did growing up on a farm push you towards joining the Marines? 5:45 - Why the Marine Corps branch specifically? 7:15 - You volunteered to go to Iraq in 2008? 8:00 - Can you talk about what you were doing in Afghanistan? 10:05 - How many missions did you complete? 10:45 - Can you take me to that day? 13:15 - What’s your first memory after it happened? 14:15 - What were the Marines around you doing? 15:20 - What do you remember about coming to in Landstuhl? 16:15 - What thoughts are going through your head in Maryland? 16:55 - What do you remember hearing about your prognosis? 18:15 - Can you talk about your mood and your morale after? 18:45 - Was it ever in doubt that you would walk again? 21:15 - Can you take me to the darkest time of your recovery? 22:15 - Do you remember the first conversation with your mother? 22:45 - Can you talk about your other fundraising activities? 23:30 - How much did you raise with the bike ride? 24:30 - How did the idea of the month of marathons come about? 26:00 - What is your fundraising goal with this? 26:20 - What are your thoughts on the state of veterans today? 28:05 - Did a doctor sign off on this for you? 29:15 - What was the lowest point of your marathons? 30:15 - Can you talk about how your sense of humor has helped you? 31:15 - Would you go back and not enlist? 33:30 - What would you say to the person who planted the IED? 33:45 - What’s your gameplan after completing the mission? 34:15 - What’s the best way for someone to follow along your journey?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Marcia Ranglin-Vassell - From Housekeeper to Deposing the House Majority Leader 37:05

for 7 years siden37:05

37:05

From housekeeper to overthrowing the House Majority Leader, Rep. Ranglin-Vassall was born and raised in Jamaica without running water. Her father didn’t read or write. Motivated by homicides in Rhode Island, she entered the political scene out of nowhere in 2016 and beat long-time incumbent John DeSimone in a campaign that lasted only 3.5 months. 2:00 - Can you talk about your upbringing in Jamaica and when you came to the states? 3:30 - Can you tell me about your first interest in politics? 6:30 - Rep. Ranglin-Vassall talks about what motivated her to run for office. 9:45 - Can you talk about the obstacles the Democratic Party put in your way? 16:00 - Did anyone from the establishment support you? 18:15 - Take me to the darkest time of your campaign. 18:45 - Can you share any stories about the establishment thinking you didn’t have any chance, and how no one thought you were a threat? 20:30 - Did you expect the teacher’s union to endorse you? 22:40 - How is your relationship with your teacher’s union now? 24:05 - Can you talk about any additional hurdles you faced as a women and a women of color in the legislature? 26:15 - Any lessons from being in the legislature? 27:50 - What would you say to a women of color interested in running? 29:00 - How is the heroin epidemic in Rhode Island? 30:00 - What’s the best advice someone has given to you? 31:00 - What can the country learn from the way RI does politics, or Jamaica? 32:15 - What’s the biggest personal challenge you’ve overcome?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Ken Simpler - Delaware State Treasurer 49:31

for 7 years siden49:31

49:31

In 2014, Delaware State Treasurer Ken Simpler overcame nearly a 2 to 1 registration disadvantage and became the first non-incumbent Republican to win a statewide office in Delaware since 1994. Hear about how Ken pulled off the victory, what a day in the life of state treasurer is, and how Ken turned the darkest moment of the campaign into a bright spot. 2:00 - Who is Ken Simpler? 3:40 - What is the day in the life of a state treasurer? 6:50 - Can you discuss your budget smoothing proposal? 8:30 - How did you enter the race in 2014? 11:30 - Did you get resistance from the Party, other than your primary opponent? 18:10 - What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from being in office so far? 21:00 - Have you seen an increase in partisanship? 23:45 - How can we heal the partisanship and divide in the country? 27:00 - What would you say to a young person thinking about getting involved? 31:00 - Can you take me to the darkest time of your campaign? 37:00 - What’s the biggest personal challenge you’ve overcome? 42:00 - Do you have a personal habit that helped you through a hard time? 43:40 - What book would you assign to a graduating high school or college class?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
David Wilson - Alaska's Youngest State Senator 39:27

for 7 years siden39:27

39:27

Senator David Wilson is Alaska’s youngest state senator, and only their second African-American state senator. In this episode, David talks about Sarah Palin’s effect on Alaskan politics, the heroin epidemic in Alaska, and the challenges he has faced as an elected official in The Last Frontier. 2:10 - Can you talk about Sarah Palin’s influence on Alaskan politics? 7:00 - David talks about his first race. 15:50 - Is it youth that is important to politics, or people that aren’t currently involved in politics getting involved more important? 17:30 - How do we get more young people involved in politics? 21:10 - Did you face any discrimination on the campaign trail? 23:40 - How can we overcome the disunity in the country? 26:10 - Wilson explains the Alaskan political structure right now. 28:10 - Wilson talks about the heroin epidemic in Alaska. 29:10 - Has Alaska made any progress with policy in tackling the heroin epidemic? 31:10 - What can the main land learn from how Alaska does politics? 33:40 - What’s a personal habit that helps you? 36:55 - How do you handle bad public relations incidents?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Chris Pearson - Bernie Sanders Former Staffer 46:54

for 7 years siden46:54

46:54

Chris Pearson, state senator for Vermont, describes working for Bernie Sanders in the late 90s, how Bernie Sanders raised over $30,000 for him in one day, and speaks about his time in office as part of the Progressive Party, a viable third-party in Vermont politics. 2:30 - Chris describes working on Bernie Sanders Congressional campaign in the late 90s. 3:40 - What’s something about Bernie that you know that most people would be surprised to know? 5:00 - Did working on Bernie’s campaign inspire you to get into politics? 5:55 - "We should reject the leaders we’re not satisfied with and use the tools of democracy to unseat them." 7:30 - How popular is Bernie in Vermont? 10:15 - Take me to your first race, and talk about the viable 3rd Party in Vermont politics. 12:30 - How did you deal with your first loss? 24:55 - Chris details when Bernie sent out an email raising money for him. 28:30 - What would you say to a young person intimidating by having to raise money? 32:00 - What’s the biggest personal challenge you’ve overcome? 34:00 - What can the country learn from the Burlington school strike? 41:45 - What book had the biggest impact on you?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Bill Ferguson - Maryland's Youngest State Senator - Episode 11 35:00

for 7 years siden35:00

35:00

Bill Ferguson was 27 years old when he beat an incumbent of 27 years (irony) in 2010. From not being able to make payroll for his campaign stuff to winning, hear how his political innocence led him to beat a Baltimore political dynasty. 2:30 - What is a day in the life of a Maryland state senator? 6:30 - “I didn’t know it was inappropriate to run against a long-time incumbent.” 15:30 - Is it healthy to not have any opposition from the other side? 16:50 - We are way too polarized, and way too dismissive of other viewpoints because they don’t fit within our paradigm. 18:10 - What is the biggest mistake you’ve made? 20:00 - In politics, relationships matter so, so much. 20:45 - What has Baltimore learned since the riots in 2015? 23:00 - What’s something you want to do better? 27:15 - What keeps you up at night? 28:10 - How would you fix economic inequality with a magic wand? 29:20 - What book had the most profound impact on you? 30:30 - How important is it to expose yourself to ideas you disagree with? 31:45 - “I left college with a sort of philosophy on the world, that, when I came to teach in Baltimore City was totally shattered.” 2:30 - What is a day in the life of a Maryland state senator? 6:30 - “I didn’t know it was inappropriate to run against a long-time incumbent.” 15:30 - Is it healthy to not have any opposition from the other side? 16:50 - We are way too polarized, and way too dismissive of other viewpoints because they don’t fit within our paradigm. 18:10 - What is the biggest mistake you’ve made? 20:00 - In politics, relationships matter so, so much. 20:45 - What has Baltimore learned since the riots in 2015? 23:00 - What’s something you want to do better? 27:15 - What keeps you up at night? 28:10 - How would you fix economic inequality with a magic wand? 29:20 - What book had the most profound impact on you? 30:30 - How important is it to expose yourself to ideas you disagree with? 31:45 - “I left college with a sort of philosophy on the world, that, when I came to teach in Baltimore City was totally shattered.”…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Highlights from Episodes 6-10: Anthony Delcollo, Colin Bonini, Eric Brakey, Dan Feltes, Mike Ramone 23:27

for 7 years siden23:27

23:27

Listen to the best quotes and insights from Episodes 6-10. This includes Anthony Delcollo (Delaware’s youngest state senator), Colin Bonini (elected to the Delaware State Senate at age of 29 in 1994), Eric Brakey (Maine’s youngest state senator and current U.S. Senate candidate), Dan Feltes (New Hampshire’s youngest state senator), and Mike Ramone (lost 4 times before winning on the 5th attempt).…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Mike Ramone - The Man Who Wouldn't Give Up - Episode 10 43:49

for 8 years siden43:49

43:49

Mike Ramone lost 4 times, yet found the fortitude to run a 5th time when he won. A remarkable story about never giving up, my favorite part is at 30:10, when he discusses his victorious election night in 2008. 2:00 - Mike Ramone discusses his first race. 3:50 - Ramone discusses the second race. 7:15 - “To me, being successful in politics is about building relationships.” 7:25 - Ramone discusses his 3rd race. 13:13 - How could a young person expect to fundraise? 15:20 - Ramone discusses his 4th race. 18:50 - Ramone speaks about the negativity going into his 4th race. 21:50 - Mike speaks about being finished with politics after the 4th race. 30:10 - Mike discusses winning on election night. 30:50 - What’s your biggest lesson as an elected official? 36:10 - What can an outsider do to bring us together as a country? 40:20 - What’s a morning routine that helps you?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Highlights from Episodes 1-5: Michael Castle, Matt Meyer, Alex Torpey, Rysheema Dixon and David Oh 21:32

for 8 years siden21:32

21:32

This episode is a recap featuring some of the best quotes, insights and lessons from the first 5 episodes which includes Michael Castle, Matt Meyer, Alex Torpey, Rysheema Dixon and David Oh.

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Dan Feltes - New Hampshire's Youngest State Senator 42:40

for 8 years siden42:40

42:40

Dan Feltes is the youngest New Hampshire State Senator since the 80s. Hear about Dan’s journey, and some choice quotes from Robert Kennedy, Joe Biden and Barack Obama that have inspired him. 2:00 - Dan discusses the hefty legislative salary he receives. 6:30 - Dan discusses his first race in 2014, where his predecessor didn’t support him. 9:10 - What other hurdles did your first campaign face? 13:40 - Can you take me to the darkest time of the campaign? 17:50 - What is the biggest life lesson you’ve learned? 21:20 - Why should young people get involved in politics? 24:50 - Is having an advanced degree a prerequisite for running for office? 27:20 - What is the biggest challenge you’ve overcome? 31:10 - What book would you assign to a graduating class? 33:00 - What’s a personal habit of yours? 35:00 - What would your message to the country be?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Eric Brakey - Maine's Youngest State Senator - Episode 8 41:48

for 8 years siden41:48

41:48

Eric Brakey is Maine’s youngest State Senator - elected at age 26 in 2014. Motivated by Ron Paul’s Presidential campaign, Eric embraces a libertarian mindset and is currently running for US Senate. Hear more from Eric, and about his unique background as an actor. 1:40 - What got you interested in politics? 12:35 - What kind of resistance did you get from the Party? 20:55 - What about young people concerned about people using their past against them? 23:25 - What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? 25:15 - What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome? 33:25 - How we can unify the country? 35:55 - What does it say about the state of politics when the name of a bill will get it to pass because legislators are scared to vote against it?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Colin Bonini - From "The Longest Shot" to Senator - Episode 7 38:31

for 8 years siden38:31

38:31

Declared "The Longest Shot" to win by the Newsjournal, Colin Bonini defied Party leaders who told him not to run in 1994. He was elected at the age of 29. Hear his thoughts on the trouble he had gaining support initially, coping with losing a statewide race 51% to 49% in 2010, and how the government crushing his car shaped his political views. 2:38 - What was your first interest in politics? 5:08 - Who told you not to run? Everybody. 9:40 - Colin discusses his 2010 State Treasurer Race where he lost 49-51 11:26 - What would you do over about 2010? 12:10 - How did you manage the emotions after the numbers came in for 2010? 15:40 What would you say to a young person interested in politics, thinking about running? 19:00 What’s a big life lesson you’ve learned from politics that anyone could relate to? 20:36 - What’s your personal habit for success? 21:50 - Prior to being married, did being single help or hinder you politically? 22:40 - “The great thing about politics is there’s no age limit: young or old.” 24:40 What can we do as a country to work together again? 27:45 - Colin tells the story of his car getting literally crushed by authorities. 33:30 - Colin reflects on his 2016 gubernatorial run. 34:00 Would Colin run statewide again? 35:00 How would Delaware look today if Colin had won as Governor? Hint: still in special session. 36:30 Would marijuana be legal?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Anthony Delcollo - Delaware's Youngest State Senator - Episode 6 49:31

for 8 years siden49:31

49:31

In 2016, Anthony Delcollo overcame a gigantic registration disadvantage and won against a 26-year incumbent. In this episode, Anthony discusses the tragedy that marked the beginning of his campaign, how being adopted has shaped him as a person, and some personal challenges he has overcome. 1:30 - You pulled off a major upset, how did you win? 3:00 - Did you win, or did your opponent lose? 5:00 - What was your first interest in politics? 7:20 - Did you face any resistance from people you cared about or people that are influential in the community advising you not to run? 11:00 - How did you handle the emotions of the untimely passing of your mother right before your campaign launch? 14:50 - Talk to me about the darkest time in the campaign, when you didn’t think you would win. 17:20 - How was election night? 22:30 - What’s been your biggest lesson so far as an elected official? 26:20 - Can you reflect on being adopted and how it has shaped you as a person? 32:30 - What’s the biggest challenge you’ve dealt with? 35:30 - What’s a personal habit of yours that helps you? 38:00 - What would you say to other young people thinking about going into politics? 44:30 - What book had the most profound impact on your life?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
David Oh - First Asian-American City Councilman for Philadelphia - Episode 5 41:18

for 8 years siden41:18

41:18

David Oh was the first Asian-American ever elected to Philadelphia City Council. Recently stabbed in front of his home by a random assailant, hear David’s thoughts on rehabilitation, how Perry Mason influenced him, and what the country can learn from Philly politics. 4:40 - What were your first thoughts about running for office? 8:10 - Who told you not to run initially? 12:00 - Who told you not to run in 2011 after losing twice? 15:20 - What motivated you internally to run again? 22:00 - What would you say to a young person thinking about getting involved in politics? 26:15 - What can we do about rehabilitating offenders? What about your assailant specifically? 29:20 - What’s a personal habit you attribute to your success? 33:00 - What can we do as a country to work together again? 38:00 - What can the country learn from Philly politics?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Rysheema Dixon - Wilmington, DE City Council - Episode 4 37:46

for 8 years siden37:46

37:46

Rysheema Dixon was elected to Wilmington, DE City Council in 2016 at the age of 29. Hear about how a near-death experience impacted her life, and the hurdles she had to overcome as a woman of color entering politics. 2:00 - What was your first thought about running for office? 3:10 - How did you go about coalescing your plan to run? 5:15 - Who told you not to run? 6:20 - “I had to tell myself I’m ready no matter who tells me I”m not.” 6:40 - Did the people tell you that you weren’t ready have their own self-interest at play? 7:20 - Take me to the time you didn’t think you were going to win. 9:00 - What did you tell yourself to keep going? 10:00 - Rysheema speaks about her background. 14:25 - What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome? 15:36 - Rysheema discusses how a roof literally collapsing over her impacted her. 18:15 - What would you say to a young person thinking about getting involved in politics? 20:35 - How would you tailor your insight or advice specifically for a woman interested in politics, and what hurdles did you face that a guy would not? 22:20 - What’s a personal habit you attribute to your success? 23:20 - What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned since being in office? 26:10 - If you had a magic wand, what would you do to heal America? 20:30 - What do you say to a member of your Party that questions why you want to reach across the aisle? 31:50 - Do you think an added benefit to young people getting engaged is working across Party lines? 34:25 - What book had the biggest impact on you? 35:15 - What is a message you would like to get across to your constituents or your Country?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Alex Torpey - The 23-Year-Old Mayor - Episode 3 48:33

for 8 years siden48:33

48:33

Alex Torpey was elected Mayor of South Orange, NJ in 2011 at the age of 23, winning by a 13-vote margin. From literally getting laughed at by residents when knocking on doors, to dealing with a bonafide troll, hear his story about the challenges he overcame to become the youngest Mayor in the history of South Orange, NJ, and his advice for young people considering politics today. “What do I have to lose? So I run in an election and I lose, my ego might take a bit of a hit, but like so what? It will be a great experience. And the upside being I might get the chance to make a difference in my community and learn a lot about how to make things work better and somehow that’s the one that ended up happening.” 4:15 - What was South Orange thinking, electing a 23 year old? 5:45 - “Some people laughed at me going door to door.” 6:00 - Alex goes into rebuttals to people thinking he was too young. 7:00 - How many people told you you were crazy to do this? 8:00 - “Am I qualified to do this?” 9:36 - What do you say to a younger person today who is thinking about running for office? 12:20 - “The American politician who doesn't want to run for reelection is a very powerful person.” 12:38 - Why didn’t you run for re-election? 15:30 - Why run as an independent? 17:20 - How did you deal with your bonafide troll? 24:10 - What’s the biggest lesson you learned? 25:40 - Biggest regret? 27:20 - What keeps you up at night? 30:00 - What can we do to reduce the bitterness in politics? 33:40 What doors have opened up for you since being Mayor? 43:50 - What’s next for Alex Torpey?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Matt Meyer - From Teacher to County Executive - Episode 2 40:21

for 8 years siden40:21

40:21

Matt Meyer did what isn’t done in incumbent-friendly Delaware - he beat a three-term incumbent to become County Executive of New Castle County. Hear about the headwinds his campaign faced: from fundraising difficulties to reticent support from political insiders, and how he overcame them. 3:20 - What kind of resistance did you get from the Party, or from people who told you not to run? 4:50 - “[A friend] said he could almost guarantee me that almost nobody would support me and that I shouldn’t ask permission to run.” 5:15 - “I couldn’t get really any of the inside politicos to support me.” 5:35 - How do we change people being afraid to support people going against incumbents? 7:30 - How did being in Iraq as a diplomat influence you? 12:40- Take me to the darkest time of your campaign, when you thought you couldn’t win. 14:10 - “In local politics, it’s less about policy than it is about relationships.” 15:50 - “We hit a point several months into the campaign where my fundraising numbers were nowhere near what they needed to be when you’re running against an incumbent.” 17:58 - “When the polls closed...I was sad, I really felt like I had lost.” 20:15 - How did you handle the negativity of your race? 23:55 - What would you say to a young person thinking about going into politics? 26:10 - What do you think we can do to come together? 29:20 - What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned since you’ve been in office? 31:10 - What’s a personal habit of yours that’s contributed to your success? 33:10 - What keeps you up at night? 34:10 - What would you be doing if you lost? 35:40 - What’s on your bucketlist? 36:40 - What’s next for you? 37:40 - If there’s one message you could push out to everybody, what would it be?…

Elected Officials of America: Underdog Stories

1
Mike Castle: From Underdog to Governor and Congressman - Episode 1 46:31

for 8 years siden46:31

46:31

A statesman for the ages, Mike Castle is a legend in Delaware politics. From underdog to Governor, hear about how a chance encounter with an acquaintance got him started in politics, how he won as a Republican in a blue state, and his thoughts on the bitterness of politics today. 1:40 - What got you started in politics? 14:40 - Congressman Castle discusses if he misses politics. 15:50 - Are politics more divisive today? 19:55 - What would you say to a young person thinking about running for office? 23:40 - What were some hardships experienced during your first campaign? 29:40 - What is your biggest life lesson from your time in elected office? 30:45 - Congressman Castle shares his biggest achievements. 35:15 - Congressman Castle shares his thoughts on welfare reform. 37:30 - Who do you hold in the highest regard? 39:25 - Congressmen Castle discusses who sacrificed the most for the country. 41:50 - What is your biggest regret?…

Velkommen til Player FM!

Player FM scanner netter for høykvalitets podcaster som du kan nyte nå. Det er den beste podcastappen og fungerer på Android, iPhone og internett. Registrer deg for å synkronisere abonnement på flere enheter.