Democracy is hanging by a thread, but our work as citizens is about being resilient and persistent so that together, we can build the future we want to see. That’s why every week we bring you The Practivist Pod — the practice of activism made practical.If you’re looking for ways to get engaged, or just looking for ways to stay sane… we want to help you navigate what comes next. Hosted by former candidate for CA Assembly and Executive Director of Blue Wave California, Steve Pierson, and grassroots organizer and Executive Director of Field Team 6, Jason Berlin. Each week on The Practivist Pod, we’ll share important conversations with changemakers, give you practical ways to make an impact, have some fun, and inspire hope.This is more than a podcast — it&#39;s a place for our community to grow our practice of advocacy for justice, equity, and progress. Action is the best antidote for anxiety, and joy is a revolutionary act, so subscribe to The Practivist Pod today.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/10/14/22/b8cc8fed-8b27-432c-9674-92359101fcc1_practivist_93.mp3

We’ve got 19 days before the midterms! Trump is doing everything that he can to distract from his unprecedented corruption and historic low approval, while Republican candidates are doing everything they can to distance themselves from Trump’s stink. We break down which of the October distractions you should be paying attention to, and give you your weekly action items to make sure that we make this election too big to rig!<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="https://www.nokings.org/" rel="nofollow">No Kings Vote Early</a> *This Saturday<a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">National Impact Fund</a><a href="http://mobilize.us/" rel="nofollow">Mobilize.us</a> <a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Nothing to See Here…

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/10/7/23/487f9ab2-81e0-43a0-ba4e-a54cc78481cc_practivist_92_jiggy_and_kate.mp3

What does actually influence our decisions? And most importantly right now, how can we effectively communicate around the midterm election to make sure we win? To answer these questions we are thrilled to welcome two foremost experts in this field. They have joined forces to launch a communications project called, “Feelings Over Facts: Embracing an emotions-first narrative strategy” in collaboration with Innovating for the Public Good.Dr. Jiggy Geronimo is a former neuroscientist turned social justice advocate and is the Founder and Principal of JG Insights. Kate Catherall is the founder and CEO of Slow Clap, a consultancy that partners with campaigns and nonprofits to develop public engagement strategy, craft narratives, and build movements.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="http://feelingsoverfacts.org/" rel="nofollow">feelingsoverfacts.org</a>﻿<a href="http://innovatingforpublicgood/" rel="nofollow">Innovatingforpublicgood</a>Check your voter registration: <a href="https://substack.com/redirect/42e5cfc8-5c1d-4f64-bf2f-fd88e005c20b?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">vote.org</a>Vote early!: <a href="https://substack.com/redirect/486885c0-e68e-4961-af82-19c38296fe94?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">No Kings</a> and<a href="https://substack.com/redirect/03f8def0-fadf-4b6a-9386-3b258d5ad5f3?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow"> Vote Early Day</a>Take an <a href="https://substack.com/redirect/dfbc486b-de2e-4357-ae73-91128922a2df?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">election holiday</a> and:Sign up to be a poll worker: <a href="https://substack.com/redirect/4efdd3b9-e5a0-4a6e-a816-fa8eb5800f19?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">Power the polls</a>Sign up to be a poll watcher: <a href="https://substack.com/redirect/255e1ef1-570a-40d4-9fc9-e869d7b538da?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">Election Protection Poll watcher</a>Sign up to give rides to the polls: <a href="https://substack.com/redirect/de8bf615-1a83-4a0a-90c2-78af90aa9ed3?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">Ride2Vote</a>Sign up for a dance party at the polls: <a href="https://substack.com/redirect/39a44f3f-747e-4872-8120-75226dfb5e20?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">Party at the Polls</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Feelings Over Facts with Dr. Jiggy Geronimo and Kate Catherall

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/10/5/22/9cda4223-1c53-4f04-84b4-6b65e5a6fff8_practivist_91_tim_fulerton.mp3

It’s no secret that we are passionate about alternative media and the dire need for Democrats to invest in and support creators who are seeking to disrupt the stranglehold that the right has in this space. We are woefully underinvested and it shows. Of the top 400 political podcasts, 300 of them are right wing. We are also way behind in supporting cultural influencers who share our values and can be a counterweight to the dangerous and destructive MAGA voices that send people down wormholes filled with conspiracies, misogyny, and hate.The answer to this is pretty simple. Support independent journalism that is dedicated to reporting the truth without corporate intervention, invest in more progressive voices to feed the algorithm an alternative to the hateful and divisive content on the right, and give all these creators and influencers the tools and support to help their content breakthrough and get more attention.This week Steve speaks with someone who is seeking to do all of that and more. Tim Fullerton started what is likely the first non-profit social media account ever (a MySpace account for Oxfam America in 2005), ran part of the email team on Obama’s first presidential campaign, built one of the most popular digital programs in the United States Government, worked digital campaigns at Everytown for Gun Safety, was the Chief Digital Officer for the State of New York, and Vice President of Content at WeWork. Now Tim is a co-founder of Find Out Media and the co-host of the Find Out Podcast.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://wearefindout.com/" rel="nofollow">wearefindout.com</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Finding Out with Tim Fullerton

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/30/20/71ea82ac-5037-43fd-987e-09f136845d3c_practivist_90.mp3

Today we are one month away from the midterms and Republicans are flailing through the final stretch. Jack Smith testified in the Senate, and reminded us all of Trump&#39;s crimes, and the newly launched government chatbot is reminding us all of Trump’s lies. And Americans don’t need reminding, but in a refreshing twist, Trump himself said out loud that he was a shitty president!<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="http://mobilize.us/" rel="nofollow">mobilize.us</a> Donate: <a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Flailing and Failing Republicans

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/28/18/10684f22-8f85-4604-8824-046f4cd2d7fe_practivist_89_connor_leahy.mp3

We’ve all been watching the rapid development of AI and while it is now ever present in our lives, we’ve been worried about job losses, deep fakes and disinformation, intellectual property breaches, its effect on the creative community and so on. But in recent weeks, there have been even more existential concerns about the rapid development of AI that has led all of the AI CEO’s to call for International regulation and slowdown of development. So today we are going to dive deeper into what is really happening with an expert who has been sounding the alarm for years.Connor Lay-He is the US Executive Director of ControlAI and a leading voice on AI. He was the founder of EleutherAI, a community that built the first open-source Large Language Models, and the AI safety startup Conjecture. He currently also runs the humanist volunteer group,<a href="https://www.torchbearer.community/" rel="nofollow"> </a><a href="https://www.torchbearer.community/" rel="nofollow">Torchbearer Community</a>. He is an expert on risks from advanced AI who has appeared on Fox News, CNN, and BBC and his commentary has been featured in The Washington Post, Financial Times, TIME, Axios, and more.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://controlai.org/" rel="nofollow">controlai.org</a><a href="https://www.torchbearer.community/" rel="nofollow">Torchbearer Community</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Safeguarding AI with Connor Leahy

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/24/0/e509d2f8-a602-4cfe-950b-2c0ceede77e8_practivist_88.mp3

With 40 days until the midterms there is so much to talk about. A bombshell Susan Collins corruption scandal, another unhinged ICE shooting in Texas, Trump’s ever sinking approval ratings, and his authoritarian press pool purge. But there is a lot of hope and a lot of work for us to do to make sure we build an undeniable midterm rout! We will tell you how you can help make it so!<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="http://nokings.org/" rel="nofollow">Nokings.org</a> Donate <a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave</a> Volunteer: <a href="http://mobilize.us/" rel="nofollow">Mobilize.us</a> <a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

All Gas, No Brakes!

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/22/2/5dad20f7-78d2-439c-9912-a94dbea1df18_practivist_87_emma_brown.mp3

We are so grateful for all of the leaders in the gun violence prevention space that keep moving us forward and making progress and we are honored to be joined by one of those leaders today. After a distinguished and prolific career working on Democratic campaigns and organizing, Emma Brown became the executive director of GIFFORDS in January 2024. She oversees the organization’s work to save lives from gun violence through shifting culture, changing policies, and challenging injustice.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://giffords.org/" rel="nofollow">giffords.org</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Ending Gun Violence with Emma Brown

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/16/23/3d7ad9bb-55ec-403a-80ef-13134b2520fa_practivist_86.mp3

Today we have 47 days until the midterm elections that will truly decide the fate of our American democratic experience. Democrats have the wind at our back and the Trump regime is as popular as a sewer rat. But to overcome the Republican’s desperate efforts to stay in power we will need every bit of effort we can muster to build an undeniable victory. We will tell you how we can make it too big to rig! <a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">MSW Blue Wave Victory Fund</a><a href="http://indivisible.org/" rel="nofollow">Indivisible.org</a> <a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Too Big To Rig!

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/14/22/4d609c96-7525-474d-94ed-42e35c0df7f0_practivist_85_leah_greenberg.mp3

From the beginning of his presidency in 2016 there have been very few people who have been as effective in organizing people power to stand up to the Trump regime than today’s guest. Once again, to meet this moment, Indivisible is taking the lead in organizing the largest nationwide voter protection campaign in our history.Leah Greenberg is the co-founder and co-Executive Director of Indivisible. She has been featured as one of TIME 100’s Most Influential People, included on GQ’s 50 Most Powerful People in Trump’s Washington, and ranked #2 on the Politico 50 list of top thinkers, doers and visionaries transforming American politics. She is here to talk about how you can join this historic fight and make sure that all of our votes are counted this November.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://indivisible.org/" rel="nofollow">indivisible.org</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

No Kings: Vote Early! with Leah Greenberg

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/2/18/bb71f4d8-cd69-496b-a681-1df344057b75_practivist_84.mp3

We are 61 days away from the most important election of our lives and while we have the momentum, the Trump regime and his enablers in the postal service are doing everything they can to disenfranchise our vote. Today we are going to talk about how we fight back and make sure we win with an indisputable blowout.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">Blue Wave MSW Impact Fund</a><a href="https://indivisible.org/campaigns/our-vote/" rel="nofollow">Indivisible Hands Off our Vote</a><a href="https://www.fieldteam6.org/" rel="nofollow">Fieldteam6.org</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Aloha Midterm

Aloha Midterms

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/19/20/e5590af1-654f-4e4b-baf0-e6dfe84a26e1_practivist_83.mp3

Today Trump’s grift keeps getting exposed, he keeps losing in court and his popularity continues to fall to historic lows. And on the 106th anniversary of the 19th amendment being ratified, we talk about how we can continue to protect our vote and build the Blue Wave we need in November.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="https://indivisible.org/campaigns/our-vote/" rel="nofollow">indivisible.org</a><a href="http://mobilize.us/" rel="nofollow">Mobilize.us</a> <a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Hands Off Our Vote

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/13/2/0f130d02-92e9-49ce-b528-cb2c4b2e0708_practivist_82.mp3

Today while Trump is hiding in a catering van, we talk about the lives he continues to put at risk both here and abroad. But the midterms are coming and despite his best efforts to disenfranchise voters, we talk about how you can help us make it the undeniable blowout win we need in November!<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a>Take Action!: <a href="http://mobilize.us/" rel="nofollow">Mobilize.us</a> <a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Building the Blowout

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/5/21/cff94513-eafb-4e72-8749-019b36d4f6b1_practivist_81.mp3

Today we’ve got a huge progressive victory in Michigan in a very close senate race with results that will send pundits punditing all over the Democratic party. So we will try not to do that but also… we are going to talk about it all… Also, with just less than 90 days to go, Trump’s approval rating hits another historic low as he craps his pants right into the midterms.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="http://mobilize.us/" rel="nofollow">Mobilize.us</a> <a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Practivist Progressive Progress

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/30/20/1a698164-268b-48c0-a236-6108c2805fdb_practivist_80_budnick.mp3

We are a deeply divided country that is increasingly isolated from each other. One of the most effective ways that we can break through our bubbles is through the arts. My guest today is a successful producer who is supporting storytellers and productions that break through and build awareness and empathy.Scott Budnick is CEO of the Film and TV company 1Community, co-founder and CEO of digital media startup Project Andron and founder of the criminal justice organization, The Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC). Before launching 1Community, Scott produced major studio comedies including Old School, Due Date, Project X, War Dogs, and The Hangover trilogy.He is also active in public policy, most recently working directly with Governor Gavin Newsom and the CA legislature to double the California Film and TV tax credit.  For his work with youth in the criminal justice system, Governor Jerry Brown named Scott California Volunteer of the Year in 2012. He was appointed by the California legislature to The Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC) and serves as a board member for President Barack Obama&#39;s My Brother&#39;s Keeper Alliance.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://antirecidivism.org/" rel="nofollow">antirecidivism.org</a><a href="https://1community.com/" rel="nofollow">1community.com</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Getting Proximate with Scott Budnick

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/29/21/968fdc8c-7cee-4b72-9b24-b575a296d1bc_practivist_79.mp3

Today as we inch ever closer to the midterms, our field is becoming clearer as primaries enter the final stretch around the country. We have the wind at our backs but are being met with Trump’s massive voter disenfranchisement campaign, so we can’t get comfy for a second. We talk about that, some drama within the DNC, how you can help us win the House AND the Senate, and also… where’s Mitch??? <a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a>DONATE:<a href="http://bluewavenation.org/" rel="nofollow">BlueWaveNation.org</a><a href="http://fieldteamsix.org/" rel="nofollow">FieldTeam6.org</a>Tell the Senate: Block Blanche [<a href="https://substack.com/redirect/9d296c2a-0013-4fb8-ac29-5a0b6171784f?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">Toolkit</a>] [<a href="https://substack.com/redirect/31dec8e8-3067-483c-b349-f820a53dc4f7?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">Call Tool</a>]<a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Primary Reasons for Hope

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/27/19/0b2d0e77-d60b-4ada-8fcd-1970be084af7_practivist_79_rebekka.mp3

With less than 100 days until the midterms, the Trump regime is ramping up their attack on voting rights with continued false claims of fraud, unconstitutional executive orders, and threats to send law enforcement to polling places. So we are glad to be having this important and timely conversation about how we can fight back against these suppression tactics and make sure that all Americans have access to their ballot.Rebekah Caruthers is President &amp; CEO at Fair Elections Center, a national voting rights organization that’s work is centered around making sure that elections are fair, registration is accessible and all Americans can cast their vote.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://fairelectionscenter.org/" rel="nofollow">fairelectionscenter.org</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Fair Elections with Rebekah Caruthers

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/22/23/8cfd0ee3-3f45-46c1-9075-7db131f47c60_practivist77.mp3

Today we are almost 100 days out from the midterms so we will talk about where we stand in the fight to win back Congress and how we can all help including in Maine where we have a great new Senate candidate! Also… Trump is a big fat embarrassing loser and everyone knows it. (Especially Spain’s soccer team.)<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/Justice4LorenzoandJohan?utm_medium=email&utm_source=substack" rel="nofollow">National Day of Action - Justice for Lorenzo and Johan - Saturday July 25th</a>Block Blanche - <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-uUGMbu-eB0CAaarTTiSSpJecCTXZJeTIl_b_AAKxtw/edit?tab=t.0" rel="nofollow">Toolkit</a> <a href="https://www.mobilize.us/commoncause/event/758610/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=substack" rel="nofollow">Phone Bank</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a> Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

100 Days to Win!

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/21/22/223076ad-e563-4d67-97ca-b13c14ac60d5_practivist_76_rashad_robinson.mp3

We are really excited for you all to hear this great conversation about how we can all build power and yes, win these existential fights. For more than two decades, Rashad Robinson’s strategic campaigns, media expertise and movement leadership have played a critical role in winning real change for real people.Rashad led Color Of Change for nearly fourteen years, transforming it from a start-up into a national force for racial justice and Black political power. Prior to that, he led programs and advocacy at GLAAD during a period of major cultural and political progress for LGBT people. His work and insights are regularly featured across broadcast, print and social media and he has a new book out called: “From Presence to Power - How to Take On the Fights That Matter and WIN.”<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://www.rashadrobinson.com/" rel="nofollow">www.rashadrobinson.com</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Presence to Power with Rashad Robinson

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/16/0/bb83f133-22fc-4402-80a3-ea291dd64dcd_practivist_75.mp3

Today we talk about the new wave of ICE atrocities on our streets, the “falling down the stairs” approach to foreign policy that has led us back into war with Iran, and Todd Blanche. We also discuss the fate of Lindsey Graham, Mitch McConnell, and what it all means to the Senate map, and of course, explosive diarrhea. <a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="http://www.goodtroubleliveson.org/" rel="nofollow">www.goodtroubleliveson.org</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

ICE, Iran and Explosive Diarrhea

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/9/3/da871082-32f1-4a22-9daa-8a078a24f433_practivisti74.mp3

Today we are back after a tenuous 250th birthday celebration that served as a perfect yet depressing metaphor for the Trump regime’s disastrous policies, at the center of which is and always has been the biggest grift in American history. And now things are only getting worse as the war with Iran has resumed, prices continue to rise while Americans get sicker, and ICE raids ramp up.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="http://indivisible.org/" rel="nofollow">Indivisible.org</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

The Big Grift

The Practice of Activism Made Practical

Democracy is hanging by a thread, but our work as citizens is about being resilient and persistent so that together, we can build the future we want to see. That’s why every week we bring you The Practivist Pod — the practice of activism made practical.

If you’re looking for ways to get engaged, or just looking for ways to stay sane… we want to help you navigate what comes next. Hosted by former candidate for CA Assembly and Executive Director of Blue Wave California, Steve Pierson, and grassroots organizer and Executive Director of Field Team 6, Jason Berlin. Each week on The Practivist Pod, we’ll share important conversations with changemakers, give you practical ways to make an impact, have some fun, and inspire hope.

This is more than a podcast — it's a place for our community to grow our practice of advocacy for justice, equity, and progress. Action is the best antidote for anxiety, and joy is a revolutionary act, so subscribe to The Practivist Pod today.