The Foolish Optimist with Amy McDonald

The Foolish Optimist: Hallie Shoffner running for US Senate in Arkansas

Reviving the American Dream: A Conversation with Senate Candidate Hallie Shoffner
 
Follow along with Hallie's campaign at her website or on her socials:
 
https://www.hallieshoffner.com/
HallieShoffner across socials
 
Host Amy McDonald welcomes Hallie Shoffner, a sixth-generation Arkansan farmer running for the US Senate in Arkansas, to the Foolish Optimist podcast. Hallie Shoffner discusses her background, from growing up on her family's farm to pursuing higher education and eventually returning home to manage the farm. She shares her frustrations with the current political and economic systems that led her to run for office. Hallie Shoffner and Amy McDonald discuss a variety of issues including the farm crisis, healthcare, social services, the importance of unions, and the impact of corporate policies on everyday Americans. Hallie Shoffner emphasizes the need for systemic change and the potential for Arkansas to lead in food security and economic reform. 
 
00:21 Welcome to the Foolish Optimist Podcast
00:39 Introducing Hallie Shoffner: A Sixth Generation Arkansan Farmer
02:57 Hallie's Journey: From Farm to Senate Run
05:28 The Harsh Realities of Farming in Arkansas
07:47 The Economic Crisis and Its Impact on Arkansan Families
12:09 The Need for Policy Change and Investment in Food Security
15:16 The Disconnect Between Politicians and Real People
28:49 The Disconnect in Congress
29:33 Need for New Legislation
31:50 Independent Voters in Arkansas
33:17 Strategies to Increase Voter Turnout
35:49 Challenges Faced by Gen Z
37:35 The Impact of Social Media and Misinformation
38:49 Digital Bill of Rights
40:03 Union Support and Workers' Rights
46:19 Issues with Voucher Programs
48:16 Support for First Responders and Teachers
50:30 Rapid Fire Questions
 

The Foolish Optimist: Robert Hunter Running in Alabama State HD 28

The Foolish Optimist Podcast: Transforming Alabama's 28th District with Robert Hunter
 
Follow Robert's Campaign at Vote4RobertHunter.com 
 
Download the Civic App in the Google Play Store or Apple Store to have your representatives information in the palm of your hand.
 
Host Amy McDonald introduces Robert Louis Hunter, a community organizer running for the Alabama State House District 28. Hunter discusses his vision for addressing economic and social issues in his community, emphasizing the need for better representation and policies that support working-class individuals. He highlights his community involvement, including his role in running the Gadsden free store and organizing Gadsden Pride events. Hunter outlines specific legislative goals such as rent stabilization, Medicaid expansion, and improving environmental protections. He also shares his plans for engaging with potential constituents through door-knocking and community events. Hunter expresses his commitment to fostering a long-term economic development plan for his district and ensuring that all community members, including those marginalized, have access to necessary resources. The conversation also touches on the challenges within the Alabama Democratic Party and Hunter's aspirations for building a more inclusive and functional party structure.
 
00:00 Introduction and Economic Outlook
00:28 Welcome to the Foolish Optimist Podcast
00:47 Meet Robert Louis Hunter
01:43 Why Robert is Running for Office
03:54 Community Organizing and Local Impact
07:08 Gadsden Free Store and Pride Events
11:31 Challenges and Future Plans
14:51 Economic Development and Infrastructure
23:56 Campaign Strategy and Community Engagement
31:16 Organizing Precinct Captains and House Parties
32:16 Challenges Facing Alabama Democrats
33:24 Internal Issues within the State Party
34:42 Generational Change and Leadership
35:23 Infighting and State Party Dynamics
37:10 National Party Intervention
38:55 Financial and Organizational Challenges
39:52 Campaign Strategy and Community Engagement
52:00 Rapid Fire Questions and Campaign Information
57:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 

The Foolish Optimist: Leila for Iowa

The Voice of Youth: Leila Staton on Running for Office in Iowa
 
Follow along with Leila's campaign at LeilaForIowa on all socials. And download the Civic Politics in the Apple Store or Google Play Store to have your representatives in your hand.
In this episode of the Foolish Optimist Podcast, the host welcomes Leila Staton, a 22-year-old progressive Democrat running for Iowa House District 54. Leila discusses her motivations for running, driven by anger at the current political system and the unmet needs in her community. She highlights key issues such as women's health, child safety, and the lack of challenge to long-standing Republican incumbents. Leila emphasizes the need for policies that truly reflect the concerns and future of young people. The conversation also covers the decline in public school quality, the detrimental effects of private school voucher programs, challenges in the healthcare system, and the importance of local food programs. The episode ends on a note of optimism and the importance of giving young candidates a platform to enact change.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome
00:41 Meet Leila Staton: Young Progressive Candidate
01:31 Leila's Motivation and Political Landscape
05:58 Challenges in Women's Health in Iowa
11:04 Addressing Child Safety and School Issues
11:58 Gun Control and Political Accountability
24:38 The Male Loneliness Epidemic and Policy Failures
26:53 Mental Health and Gun Control
28:31 Police Brutality and Overfunding
31:43 Legalizing Marijuana and Economic Benefits
33:49 Education and Healthcare Challenges
34:54 Affordable Housing Initiatives
39:07 Farming and Environmental Impact
48:37 Taxing the Wealthy and Economic Solutions
50:27 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks

The Foolish Optimist: Kyah Creekmore for NC’s 5th Congressional District

The Foolish Optimist Podcast: Kyah Creekmore on Universal Healthcare and Policy Reform
 
Follow Kyah's Campaign at KyahCreekmore.com 
 
In this episode of The Foolish Optimist Podcast, hosted by Amy McDonald, guest Kyah Creekmore discusses his campaign for North Carolina's 5th Congressional District in the 2026 election. At just 24 years old, Kyah is a Generation Z organizer and policy advocate. He shares his personal story of growing up in a challenging environment and his vision for a future that includes universal healthcare, fully funded schools with six-figure teacher salaries, and the elimination of corruption in Washington, D.C. Amy and Kyah delve into key societal issues like healthcare access, economic inequality, and the importance of inclusive policies. Tune in for a deep dive into the challenges and aspirations of America's younger generation of leaders.
 
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome
00:33 Meet Kyah Creekmore: Gen Z Candidate
01:34 Kyah's Personal Story and Motivation
01:52 Challenges of Growing Up in Poverty
02:59 Systemic Issues and Policy Failures
04:19 The Struggles of Modern Workers
12:36 District 5: North Carolina's Political Landscape
16:18 Kyah's Vision for America
18:46 Healthcare Reform and Economic Justice
22:34 Historical Context and Social Justice
30:41 Economic Impact of Health Crises
31:58 Critique of Obama's Policies
35:51 North Carolina's Fifth District Issues
37:30 Public Transit and Infrastructure Challenges
38:44 Healthcare and Food Deserts
41:30 Legal Representation and Tenant Rights
46:45 The Power of Words and Democracy
50:53 Rapid Fire Questions
58:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 

The Foolish Optimist: Alex Hawkins running in Michigan’s 55th State House District

Taking Back Power: Meet Alex Hawkins, Candidate for Michigan House District 55
Follow along with Alex's Campaign at AlexHawkins.org or on socials AlexHawkinsMI
 
In this episode of the Foolish Optimist Podcast, host Amy McDonald talks to Alex Hawkins, a candidate running for state representative in Michigan's House District 55. Alex shares his inspiring journey from a challenging upbringing to a life dedicated to service as a US Army veteran, bomb tech, reserve sheriff's deputy, and EOD officer in the Michigan National Guard. The discussion dives into his reasons for running, focusing on affordability issues, healthcare, public education, veterans' support, and the significance of local unions. Tune in to hear Alex’s plans for bringing power back to regular working people and how he aims to create positive change in his community.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Opening
00:32 Meet Alex Hawkins: A Life of Service
02:17 Why Alex is Running for State Representative
03:21 Discussing Michigan's Issues and Alex's Campaign Goals
04:11 A Closer Look at Rochester and Rochester Hills
06:05 Challenges in Michigan's State House
11:46 The Importance of Public Education
15:54 Building Coalitions and Bipartisanship
21:13 Gun Ownership and Legislation
28:03 Supporting Veterans at the State Level
30:05 Service Members' Benefits and TRICARE
31:07 Michigan's New Fighter Jets and Job Creation
31:30 Veterans' Benefits and Retention in Michigan
34:04 The Importance of Unions and Workers' Rights
40:29 Challenges of Affordability in Michigan
44:10 Campaigning and Political Strategy
54:39 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks

The Foolish Optimist: Valentina Mendoza for NJ 7th Congressional District

Valentina Mendoza: Breaking Barriers in New Jersey's 7th Congressional District
 
Follow along with her campaign at VoteVale.com or VoteVale on socials.
 
Join Amy McDonald on The Foolish Optimist Podcast as she engages in a deep and impactful conversation with Valentina Mendoza, a trans Chicana neurodivergent attorney running for Congress in New Jersey's 7th District. Valentina opens up about her life story, the struggles she has faced, and her vision for transformative, progressive leadership. The discussion covers diverse topics including the importance of lived experience in politics, economic justice, healthcare reform, and the pressing need for fearless, genuine representation. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in authentic, empathetic, and forward-thinking political change.
 
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome
00:30 Meet Valentina Mendoza: A Trailblazing Candidate
01:44 Valentina's Motivation and Vision for Change
03:37 Challenges and Representation in Politics
09:12 Diversity and Electability in District Seven
22:10 Healthcare Struggles and Systemic Barriers
35:45 Economic Justice and Community Empowerment
37:38 Electric Bills and Data Centers
38:02 Reparations and Local Economies
38:58 Addressing Historical Injustices
40:50 The Importance of Discomfort in Advocacy
41:40 Challenges of Being a Transgender Woman
49:11 Grassroots Campaigning and Political Integrity
50:35 The Need for Radical Change in Politics
01:02:15 The Role of Government and Public Services
01:07:08 Final Thoughts and Campaign Information
 

The Foolish Optimist: Esther Kim Varet, running in CA 40th Congressional District

The Foolish Optimist Podcast: Esther Kim Varet on Running for Congress in California's 40th District
 
Follow along at EstherKimVaret.com 
 
In this episode of The Foolish Optimist Podcast, host Amy interviews Esther Kim Varet, a congressional candidate running in California's 40th district. Esther shares her journey from Googling how to run for Congress to raising significant campaign funds and challenging the status quo. They discuss the importance of practical experience, bipartisan efforts, and the necessity for visionary leaders in today's political landscape. Esther also speaks on her personal motivations, balancing family life, and her unique perspective on why Congress needs more people with diverse backgrounds. Amy and Esther emphasize the need for normalcy in politics and the power of empathetic conversations to bridge divides.
 
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:50 Guest Introduction: Esther Kim Varet
01:36 The Challenges of Running for Congress
03:32 Facing Skepticism and Overcoming Doubts
08:26 Fundraising and Campaign Strategy
12:02 The Need for Visionaries in Congress
18:40 Personal Background and Beliefs
23:51 The Importance of Empathy in Politics
27:50 Teaching Hate: A Personal Anecdote
28:23 Empathy Gap and Political Influence on Kids
29:17 Moral High Ground and Binary Thinking
30:39 Resistance and Unity
32:09 Team Normal: A New Movement
32:56 Libertarians and Taxes
33:44 Public Education and Common Sense
35:51 Congressional Inaction and Frustration
40:59 Running for Congress: A Personal Journey
42:35 Campaign Strategy and Redistricting
49:05 Getting to Know Esther Kim Varet
54:09 Conclusion and Call to Action

The Foolish Optimist: Lexy Doherty for GA’s 10th Congressional District

Finding Common Ground: Lexy Doherty's Congressional Campaign
 
Follow along at https://www.lexydoherty.com/. 
 
Host Amy McDonald talks with Lexy Doherty, a geologist, educator, and public servant running for Congress in Georgia's 10th district. They discuss the importance of people organizing for better conditions, the significance of unions and raising the minimum wage, and the challenges facing today's political landscape. Doherty shares her passion for addressing affordability issues, the cost of living, and advocating for rural communities often neglected by the political establishment. The conversation also touches on her campaign strategies, the power of grassroots mobilization, and the need for effective communication with diverse voter bases.
 
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:45 Meet Lexy Doherty: Geologist and Congressional Candidate
01:14 Why Run for Congress in 2026?
02:11 Challenges and Commitments in Political Campaigns
02:53 Generational Divide and Political Resistance
04:26 The Importance of Voting and Civic Engagement
07:17 Science, COVID-19, and Public Perception
12:23 Economic Geology and Career Path
13:43 Living and Working in Georgia
17:01 District 10 Issues and Policy Solutions
18:30 Unions, Minimum Wage, and Workers' Rights
22:57 The Heritage Foundation's Influence
23:16 Union Revolution and Youth Involvement
24:58 Housing and Urban Development
27:08 Campaign Lessons and Strategies
31:14 Connecting with Rural Voters
40:00 Building Coalitions and Community Trust
43:52 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks
 

The Foolish Optimist: Dana Owens President of the Jackson County Dems

Revitalizing Rural Democracy: An Inside Look with Dana Owens
Host Amy McDonald welcomes Dana Owens, President of the Jackson County Democratic Club in Alabama, to the Foolish Optimist Podcast. Owens goes in-depth about his unexpected rise in local politics, the revitalization of the democratic club in his county, and the importance of local and state elections in driving national change. They discuss the challenges of mobilizing voters in a historically red state, the impact of federal policies on local communities, and the importance of electing progressive candidates. The conversation also touches on the broader issues of corruption in politics, the economical struggles of rural areas, and the need for new leadership to address systemic issues from the ground up.
00:00 Introduction to the Foolish Optimist Podcast
00:32 Meet Jimmy Dana Owens
01:20 Dana's Political Journey
02:29 Reviving the Jackson County Democratic Club
03:39 Challenges and Opportunities in Alabama Politics
05:56 The Importance of Local Political Involvement
11:44 The Struggles of Rural America
17:44 Impact of National Policies on Local Communities
21:40 The Need for New Leadership
24:26 The Role of Farmers in the Political Landscape
27:26 Frustrations with Current Political Leadership
32:45 The Need for Younger Legislators
35:20 The Importance of Midterm and Local Elections
38:11 Alabama's Unique Political Landscape
39:34 The Impact of Private Prisons in Alabama
41:11 Challenges and Opportunities for Democrats in Alabama
44:13 The Influence of Trump and Republican Strategies
52:37 The Role of Voter Turnout and Engagement
57:58 Hope for a Blue Wave and Future Leadership
01:01:49 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

The Foolish Optimist: Matt Menter for Maryland Delegate

Exploring Grassroots Leadership with Baltimore Delegate Candidate Matthew Menter | Foolish Optimist Podcast
 
Follow along with Matt's campaign at MattForMaryland.com
 
Welcome back to the Foolish Optimist Podcast, hosted by Amy McDonald, where we search for the next generation of leaders. In this episode, Amy interviews Matthew Menter, a candidate running for delegate of District 41 in Baltimore for the 2026 election. Matthew discusses his motivations for running, his love for Baltimore, and the various challenges facing the city, including disinvestment, racism, and economic disparities. He sheds light on his unique outsider perspective, focusing on his community engagement efforts and commitment to listening to the needs of the local residents. From touching on the city's rich culture to addressing policy failures and the importance of holistic solutions, this episode offers an in-depth look at Matthew's vision and the potential for transformative leadership in Baltimore.
 
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:40 Meet the Guest: Matthew Menter
01:09 Why Matthew is Running for Delegate
01:55 Challenges and Perceptions of Baltimore
04:20 Political Leadership and Policies
11:56 Understanding the Role of State Delegates
15:34 Matthew's Approach to Community Engagement
19:34 Connecting with Diverse Communities
24:45 Constituents' Concerns and Community Issues
26:19 Economic Disparities and Local Economy
29:16 Generational Differences and Economic Challenges
37:37 Running for Office and Community Engagement
43:09 Random Questions and Personal Preferences
49:17 Conclusion and Contact Information