The Recovered Republican Podcast

Democracy, But Make It Work with David Ziemba

Recorded 4/25/2026. In this episode of The Recovered Republican, Brianna sits down with David J. Ziemba — an organizer, legal expert, and longtime force within the Indiana Democratic Party. Together, they dig into Ziemba’s background and the wide‑ranging experience that’s made him a go‑to multitool for campaigns, candidates, and community coalitions across the state. The conversation breaks down the wins and losses from Indiana’s 2026 legislative session, highlighting what moved, what stalled, and what those outcomes mean for Hoosiers. Ziemba also walks through key legal and political cases to watch in the months ahead, along with the important dates that every engaged voter should have on their radar. It’s a grounded, insightful look at how democracy actually works in Indiana — and what it takes to keep pushing it forward. This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to The Recovered Republican at therecoveredrepublican.substack.com/subscribe [https://therecoveredrepublican.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Jordan J Herrera - MO 4th District

In this episode of The Recovered Republican, Brianna sits down with Jordan J. Herrera, a Democrat running for Congress in Missouri’s 4th Congressional District. MO‑04 is a district shaped by rural communities, military families, agricultural labor, and years of political neglect — and Jordan is stepping forward with a message centered on service, accountability, and actually showing up for the people who live there. This conversation digs into: * why Jordan decided to run, * what he’s hearing from voters across the district, * how national narratives overlook communities like MO‑04, * and what it takes to build a campaign in a place pundits love to write off. If you’re tired of the idea that some districts “don’t matter” or that democracy is only worth fighting for in easy races, this episode is for you. Jordan brings a grounded, real‑world perspective shaped by lived experience — not culture‑war theatrics — and his story resonates far beyond Missouri. To support the show and get bonus content, behind‑the‑scenes updates, and early episode drops, you can subscribe on Substack. Get full access to The Recovered Republican at therecoveredrepublican.substack.com/subscribe [https://therecoveredrepublican.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

A Conversation with Gabrianna Gratzol

In this episode of The Recovered Republican, Brianna sits down with Gabrianna Gratzol, a Democrat running for Indiana Senate District 11. Together, they dig into the issues Hoosiers are talking about every day — and the ones they should be. From school vouchers and data centers to taxes, infrastructure, accountability, and government spending, this conversation breaks down how policy decisions shape real lives across Indiana. Gabrianna shares her perspective as a candidate and community advocate, offering insight into what’s at stake and why these topics matter for families, workers, and neighborhoods across the state. If you’re looking for a grounded, accessible conversation about the future of Indiana, this episode delivers. Get full access to The Recovered Republican at therecoveredrepublican.substack.com/subscribe [https://therecoveredrepublican.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Nick Marshall - Defying the Odds

In this episode, Brianna sits down with Nick Marshall, a Democrat running for Indiana Senate District 45, whose life story is as powerful as his policy vision. Growing up in the foster care system, Nick learned early what instability feels like—and what it means to fight for a future no one hands to you. His journey from surviving childhood adversity to stepping up as a candidate is a testament to grit, hope, and the belief that Hoosiers deserve better. Together, we dig into the issues that shape daily life across Indiana: * Affordability and why so many families feel like they’re falling behind * Healthcare access, especially for rural and working‑class communities * Childcare, and the impossible math parents are forced to do * Economic stability, and what it takes to build a state where people can thrive * Lived experience, and how Nick’s background fuels his commitment to public service Nick brings honesty, heart, and a grounded understanding of what everyday Hoosiers are facing. If you care about leaders who know struggle firsthand—and who are ready to fight for real change—this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. Get full access to The Recovered Republican at therecoveredrepublican.substack.com/subscribe [https://therecoveredrepublican.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Devon Wellington: Candidate for IN House District 29

Meet Devon Wellington, a democrat running in Indiana’s House district 29: Noblesville and some of Fishers. Hear from Devon about healthcare, the energy crisis, housing crisis, and more. Get full access to The Recovered Republican at therecoveredrepublican.substack.com/subscribe [https://therecoveredrepublican.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]