The Foolish Optimist with Amy McDonald

The Foolish Optimist: Itay Balely from the LGBTQ Victory Insitute

Empowering the Next Generation: Insights from Itay Balely on Political Candidates and Training
Get involved at https://victoryinstitute.org/.
Host Amy McDonald welcomes Itay Balely, Director of Training at the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute, to The Foolish Optimist Podcast. They discuss the importance of political training programs that equip LGBTQ+ candidates with the skills and knowledge necessary for running for public office. Balely shares his experience working with the Human Rights Campaign and his current role at the Victory Institute, where he focuses on candidate training and motivation. The conversation explores the unique challenges LGBTQ+ candidates face, the significance of local elections, and practical advice for prospective candidates. Balely emphasizes the holistic approach to candidate training, the importance of community engagement, and the impact of instilling hope and optimism in political campaigns.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:54 Meet Itay Balely: Director of Training at LGBTQ+ Victory Institute05:29 Challenges and Advice for LGBTQ+ Candidates08:56 The Importance of Representation and Community Engagement14:34 Preparing for a Political Run: Personal, Financial, and Political Assessments20:10 The Reality of Campaigning: Mental and Physical Demands23:59 Strategies for Running Against Incumbents28:38 Combating Hatred and Building Community Connections34:08 Holistic Approach to Advocacy34:58 Economic Insecurity and Systemic Exclusion36:26 Human Brain and Resistance to Change38:26 Grassroots Campaigning and Fundraising41:58 The Importance of Local Elections46:29 Challenges and Advice for Aspiring Candidates57:14 Victory Institute's Mission and Programs01:02:06 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

The Foolish Optimist: Emily Morgul for Texas

 
The Rise of Progressive Voices: A Conversation with Emily Morgul
 
Amy McDonald, host of The Foolish Optimist Podcast, interviews Emily Morgul, a second-generation Turkish American running for the U.S. Senate from Texas. In the discussion, Emily explains how Roe v. Wade's overturn spurred her decision to run for office, highlighting her aim to represent marginalized communities. The conversation touches upon challenges related to healthcare, cost of living, and political corruption in Texas. Emily shares insights on the necessity of involving younger generations in politics and supporting skilled trades as viable career paths. The podcast concludes with light-hearted, random questions and details on how to follow and support Emily's campaign.
 
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome
00:46 Introducing Emily Morgul: Senate Candidate
01:52 Emily's Journey and Motivation
03:17 Challenges and Strategies in Texas Politics
17:35 Healthcare and Insurance Issues in Texas
22:18 Government Corruption and Ethical Concerns
27:05 PornHub and Identity Verification
28:02 Government and Internet Savviness
29:01 Emerging Technology and AI Concerns
31:24 AI's Impact on Jobs and Society
32:59 Trade Schools and Skilled Labor
38:36 Cost of Living and Property Taxes in Texas
42:04 Healthcare and Obesity Issues in Texas
45:18 Emily Morguls's Campaign and Contact Information
48:04 Random Questions and Closing Remarks
 

The Foolish Optimist: Fight Against Fascism Organization

The Role of Community in Supporting Veterans: A Conversation with FAFO Leaders
 
Get involved with FAFO at the https://www.fightagainstfascism.org/
 
This episode of The Foolish Optimist Podcast features an engaging conversation with Jasmine Johnson and Amanda Reed from the Fight Against Fascism organization (FAFO). Host Amy discusses the importance of civic engagement, community involvement, and the unique roles individuals can play to support veterans and uphold social justice. Jasmine and Amanda share the origins and growth of FAFO, detailing how they connect with and support various communities, particularly focusing on veteran-led initiatives. They also discuss the complexities of activism, the significance of genuine allyship, and the urgent need for political accountability. The episode highlights the ways in which individuals can make a difference at local and state levels, emphasizing the collective strength required to combat oppression and drive meaningful change.
 
00:00 Introduction and Call to Action
00:28 Welcome to the Foolish Optimist Podcast
00:48 Introducing Our Guests: Jasmine Johnson and Amanda Reed
02:19 The Origin of FAFO
04:04 First Event and Key Supporters
06:02 Amanda Reed's Role and Online Activism
10:45 Challenges and Realities of Activism
18:08 The Importance of Accountability
29:22 FAFO's Unique Approach to Activism
32:11 Introduction to the Controversial Blonde
32:26 Excitement for a Progressive Candidate
33:40 Diverse Progressive Candidates
34:44 New Jersey Elections Overview
35:41 Republican Candidate Critique
37:17 Veterans' Issues in New Jersey
40:29 Media and Political Influence
53:50 Veterans' Support and Community Involvement
58:50 Conclusion and Call to Action
 

The Foolish Optimist: Joey Marschall, Wisconsin's 6th Congressional District

Joey Marshall's 2026 Congressional Run: Community, Healthcare, and Rural Revitalization
You can donate to Joey Marschall - https://secure.actblue.com/donate/joey-marschall-1
or follow his campaign on Facebook.
Host Amy McDonald of The Foolish Optimist Podcast interviews Joey Marshall, a Democratic candidate running for the sixth Congressional District in Wisconsin in 2026. Marshall discusses his motivations for running, highlighting the lack of Democratic candidates in past elections and his commitment to stepping up to make a change. He shares insights about his district, which is predominantly rural with significant farming and manufacturing industries. Key issues discussed include rural revitalization, healthcare, immigration, and the impact of recent policies on farmers. Marshall also addresses the challenges of running a campaign while working two jobs and emphasizes the importance of community and mutual support in his district.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:30 Meet Joey Marshall: Congressional Candidate01:17 Joey's Background and District03:55 Challenges Facing Farmers06:11 Immigration and Human Rights Issues08:09 Healthcare and Government Policies13:59 Town Halls and Local Concerns33:32 The Importance of Learning from History34:35 Political Landscape and Leadership35:31 Advice for the Younger Generation37:46 Respect and Character in Politics43:25 Challenges and Realities of Campaigning47:32 Community Support and Personal Stories55:05 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights01:04:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 

The Foolish Optimist: Dee Elder

The People Behind the Candidates: A Conversation with Dee Elder
 
Host Amy McDonald engages in an insightful discussion with Dee Elder, a former candidate and current political consultant at New Way Forward Strategies. They delve into Dee's personal journey in politics, starting as a transgender woman in South Carolina, and her eventual candidacy against a state senator. The conversation also covers the challenges of campaigning, the importance of a volunteer coordinator, and the evolving media landscape. Additionally, they touch on broader topics such as anti-trans legislation, the impact of propaganda, and the necessity of hope in today's political climate.
 
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:27 Meet Dee Elder: A Journey into Politics
01:46 Challenges and Struggles in South Carolina
04:10 Running for Office: The Decision and Campaign
13:00 Current Work and Future Plans
22:50 Balancing Life and Politics
31:45 The Ripple Effects of Losing Medicaid
32:19 Young Political Hopefuls and Their Impact
32:49 Discussing Dr. Annie Andrews' Candidacy
33:34 Election Integrity and Lindsey Graham's Vulnerability
34:46 The Problem with Gerrymandering
38:21 The Difference Between Democrats and Republicans
43:55 The Role of Empathy in Politics
44:47 Raising the Next Generation of Leaders
46:19 Nancy Mace and Nepotism at The Citadel
49:09 Political Opportunism and Campaign Strategies
52:27 Fundraising and Campaign Management
58:17 The Gaza Conflict and Political Hypocrisy
01:00:21 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans
 

The Foolish Optimist: Hunter Miranda for California’s 47th Congressional District

Hunter Garcia Miranda: Grassroots Change and Policy Priorities
 
Follow his campaign at HunterMiranda2026.com
 
Host Amy McDonald engages in a conversation with California attorney Hunter Garcia Miranda on 'The Foolish Optimist Podcast.' Miranda discusses his background in law and politics, focusing on his shift towards challenging the Democratic Party establishment.
 
He emphasizes the need for bold policy changes, particularly in immigration and reducing corporate influence in politics. The conversation covers voter misinformation, the economic burden on middle and lower-class Americans, and a detailed look at local and international issues, such as the situation in Gaza. Miranda also outlines plans to mobilize voters in his district, emphasizing grassroots support and tangible policy proposals.
 
00:00 Welcome to The Foolish Optimist Podcast
00:32 Introducing Hunter Garcia Miranda
00:42 Hunter's Legal and Political Journey
01:16 Grassroots Politics and Challenges
01:33 Addressing Misconceptions in Politics
03:12 Hunter's Motivation for Running
06:00 The Influence of Big Money in Politics
09:15 The Role of Policy in Campaigns
13:39 The Israel-Palestine Conflict
20:51 Local Issues and National Spending
30:18 Economic Inequality and Corporate Profiteering
31:22 Monopolies and Market Control
33:12 Political Inaction and the Need for Change
39:29 Healthcare System Failures
46:13 Campaign Strategies and Grassroots Movements
51:09 Get to Know Hunter Miranda
 

The Foolish Optimist: Ishpal Sidhu aka What the Ish

Conversations on Comedy, Law, and Modern Political Realities
 
In this episode of The Foolish Optimist Podcast, Amy sits down with Ish, a former lawyer turned comedian and TikTok creator known for her series 'Revenge Ideas from a Lawyer That Won't Get You Arrested'.
 
They dive into Ish's unorthodox career journey, mental health struggles during law school, and transition into stand-up comedy. They discuss the absurdities of legal work, the impact of economic and social issues on everyday lives, and the critical need for systemic change. The conversation wraps up with reflections on societal values, the potential for a feminist-led revolution, and a hopeful outlook on future progress.
 
 
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:52 Starting a Podcast and Commitment
01:35 Transition from Law to Comedy
02:12 Law School and Mental Health Struggles
04:27 Practicing Law and Burnout
08:59 Personal Struggles and Moving Home
09:59 TikTok Series and Quitting Law
10:55 Sobriety and New Beginnings
12:13 Politics, Comedy, and Social Commentary
13:06 Nail Talk and Personal Preferences
31:44 Reflecting on Body Image and Bullying
32:50 The Consequences of Free Speech
33:36 Comedy and Controversial Topics
34:32 Navigating Online Hate and Comments
36:31 Calling Out White Women
37:28 The Handmaid's Tale and White Women's Concerns
41:21 White Women's Advocacy and Survival Mechanisms
55:48 The Role of Women in Resistance
56:57 The Impact of Media Blackouts
01:02:04 The Supreme Court and Authoritarianism
01:07:04 Cultural Shifts and Racial Demographics
01:07:31 Conservative Values and Gun Control
01:08:59 Child Marriage and Legal Loopholes
01:10:50 Historical Parallels and Labor Issues
01:11:50 White Supremacy and Capitalism
01:12:20 Leftist Ideals and Social Justice
01:26:26 Billionaires and Economic Disparities
01:29:34 The Myth of the American Dream
01:32:21 Education and Hard Work
01:41:40 Podcast Conclusion and Call to Action
 

The Foolish Optimist: Daniel Byron running in PA’s 9th Congressional District

The Power of Grassroots: Daniel Byron's Campaign for Pennsylvania's Ninth District
 
Follow Daniel Byron and his campaign at ByronForCongress.com
 
Host Amy McDonald of The Foolish Optimist Podcast converses with Daniel Byron, a single father, full-time student, and retail manager running for Pennsylvania's Ninth District US Congress seat in 2026. Byron, disillusioned by the Democratic Party's lack of strong candidates and inspired to take action following Trump's second-term win, aspires to represent ordinary people. He highlights his efforts to connect with voters on key issues like affordability, healthcare, and digital reform. Byron shares his views on impactful grassroots campaigning, the importance of engaging working-class voters, and promoting transparency and equity in both healthcare and digital privacy policies.
 
00:00 Welcome to the Foolish Optimist Podcast
00:29 Meet Daniel Byron: A Candidate's Journey
01:44 Challenges in the Ninth District
03:00 The Importance of Local Elections
05:10 The Role of the Democratic National Party
06:29 Affordability and the Middle Class
13:04 Engaging with Republican Voters
19:46 Digital Reform: A New Frontier
33:57 Consumer Protections and Inflation
35:25 The Role of Regulations and Tech Giants
36:39 Rural District Dynamics
38:20 Voter Suppression Concerns
40:21 Supreme Court and Political Strategies
41:51 Economic Inequality and Political Manipulation
47:17 Campaign Finance and Term Limits
52:03 Healthcare Affordability and Reforms
54:22 Student Debt Crisis Solutions
59:32 Final Thoughts and Personal Insights
 

The Foolish Optimist, Anthony DeRibas running in Florida’s 16th District

Anthony DeRibas: Advocating for Real Change in Florida's 16th District
 
Follow along with the campaign at DeRibasForCongress.org or AnthonyDeRibasforFL16 on socials
 
Host Amy McDonald of The Foolish Optimist podcast engages with Anthony DeRibas, an independent candidate running for Florida's 16th Congressional District. DeRibas shares his journey from his first political run in 1998 to his current campaign, emphasizing the need for debt reform, civil liberties, and true working-class representation in Congress. He discusses the barriers faced by independent candidates, such as closed primaries and steep ballot fees, and outlines his platform focusing on housing, healthcare, and immigration. DeRibas also critiques the entrenched two-party system and highlights the importance of collaboration for meaningful change in American politics.
 
00:00 Introduction to the Foolish Optimist Podcast
00:13 Meet Anthony DeRibas: A Working-Class Candidate
00:50 Anthony's Political Journey: From 1998 to Now
02:34 Challenges of Running as an Independent
06:17 Campaign Finance and Ballot Access
15:54 Housing, Healthcare, and Immigration: Key Issues
21:11 Rental Fees and Corporate Abuses
21:43 Income Qualification Reform
21:54 Libertarian Views and Generational Challenges
23:33 Government Intervention and Corporate Accountability
24:10 Credit Score Protections and Application Fee Regulations
24:46 Local Oversight and Tenant Associations
25:42 Immigration Policies and Family Separation
27:35 Florida's Immigration Issues and Homelessness
29:08 Economic Arguments and Policy Choices
30:50 Complexity of Government and Long-Term Solutions
33:54 Military Spending and Domestic Needs
37:58 Campaign Information and Social Media
38:58 Get to Know the Candidate: Fun Questions
45:04 Closing Remarks and Podcast Information

The Foolish Optimist: Andres Castro for Georgia

Building People-Powered Leadership: A Conversation with Andres Castro
 
You can follow his campaign at CastroForGeorgia.com 
Host Amy McDonald engages in a discussion with Andres Castro, a software engineer and working-class advocate running for Georgia's fifth congressional district. Castro, who is committed to universal healthcare, strong labor protections, and affordable housing, shares his vision for a fairer economy and society. He discusses his initial motivation to enter politics following a personal crisis, his strategy for his campaign likened to a tech startup, and the importance of workers' rights and fair wages. The conversation touches on the role of AI in society, the need for modern infrastructure, and Castro's personal journey into software engineering. The episode highlights Castro's ideas for creating a more equitable future and his approach to addressing the key issues faced by his constituents.
00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement00:59 Why Andres Castro is Running for Congress01:36 Challenges and Realizations in the Political Landscape04:11 The Role of AI in Society and Government10:20 Andres Castro's Background and Journey13:08 Living in Georgia and Community Insights15:49 Key Issues in Georgia's Fifth District17:57 The Importance of Fair Wages and Worker Protections25:28 Building a Better Society Through Community and Support27:35 Economic Inequality and Government Loopholes28:56 New York City's Mini Revolution29:32 The Importance of Free Public Transportation30:54 Challenges Facing Progressive Politics32:43 Healthcare System Failures and Personal Stories37:12 Running for Office and New Visions for the Future41:04 Community Involvement and Local Organizations44:07 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights50:53 Campaign Information and Closing Remarks