Rise & Resist

Episode 11 - Zane Gustafson, Author of Polemic for Democracy

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. Takeaways * Protests 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. Chapters * 00:00 Introduction to Zane Gustafson and Constitutional Reform * 28:52 Writing and Wrapping Up the Book * 39:15 Outside Influences and International Examples * 46:27 Empowering the People and Addressing Key Issues

Episode 10 - Robin McGehee, Co-Founder of Together Across America

In this episode, we converse with Robin McGehee of Together Across America (https://www.togetheracrossamerica.org/ [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. Takeaways * State of democracy and concerns about the political climate * Debate on the SAVE Act and its implications * Mobilizing a movement through cultural shifts and civic engagement * Action is the antidote to despair Chapters * 00:00 The State of Democracy * 07:32 The War in Iran * 21:08 Mobilizing a Movement * 27:41 Activism Journey and Growth * 33:00 Intersectional Approach

Episode 9 - Dana and Libby, Representatives of Visibility Brigade

In this episode, we converse with Dana and Libby of Visibility Brigade (https://www.visibilitybrigade.com/ [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. Takeaways * Community-driven activism * Impact of grassroots movements Community-driven activism * Creative expression in civil resistance Chapters * 00:00 The Power of Grassroots Activism * 06:14 Overpass Bantering and Community Building * 18:41 Building Bridges and Creating Community * 25:04 The Continuity of Activism * 38:49 Building Community through Activism Visibility Brigade: https://www.visibilitybrigade.com [https://www.visibilitybrigade.com/] ResistTrump Campaign: https://www.resisttrump.us [https://www.resisttrump.us/]

Episode 8 - Stacie Freasier, Director of Development with Pace e Bene Nonviolence Service

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/ [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. Takeaways * Nonviolent resistance is a strategic and effective approach to social change. * Empathy and self-compassion are essential components of nonviolent activism. Chapters * 00:00 Introduction to the Resist Trump Campaign * 06:00 Introduction to Stacie Freasier and Nonviolent Resistance * 23:07 The Value of Emotions and Relationships in Activism * 36:38 Practicing Nonviolence and Self-Compassion Pace e Bene Nonviolence Service: https://paceebene.org/paceebene [https://paceebene.org/paceebene] Selma Center for Nonviolence, Truth, and Reconciliation: https://www.selmacenterfornonviolence.org/ [https://www.selmacenterfornonviolence.org/] ResistTrump Campaign: https://www.resisttrump.us/ [https://www.resisttrump.us/]

Episode 7 - Jimmy Flannigan, Former Austin City Council Member

In this episode, the Rise and Resist Podcast sits with Jimmy Flannigan, Former Austin City Council Member (https://www.jimmyflannigan.com/ [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. Takeaways * Local Politics and Resistance * Shifting Dynamics of Resistance * Hope for the Future Chapters * 00:00 News Rundown * 08:49 Local Politics and Resistance * 14:22 Engaging with Local Officials to Resist ICE * 19:25 Influence of Local Leaders in Shaping Public Narrative * 24:34 Shifting Dynamics of Resistance * 30:20 Hope for the Future