The Foolish Optimist with Amy McDonald

The Foolish Optimist: Steve Schwab, candidate for Texas State House 44

In this episode of the Foolish Optimist Podcast, host Amy McDonald interviews Steve Schwab, who is running for the Texas House of Representatives in District 44. Follow his journey on socials or at his website at SchwabforTexas.com
 
Schwab shares his fascinating life story from growing up in Boston, dealing with family challenges, serving in the Army, to his transition into academia. He discusses his motivation for running for office, focusing on removing MAGA Republicans and the importance of winning local elections to impact national outcomes. Schwab emphasizes on working with people across political divides, the importance of rural voices, and how better representation can improve the quality of life for Texans. The episode delves into Texas's unique legislative structure and Schwab’s strategies for combating the influence of big money in politics. He also reflects on the recent floods in the area and the resilience of the Texas community.
 
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Setup
00:22 Guest Introduction: Steve Schwab
00:39 Steve's Early Life and Family Struggles
02:16 College and Military Service
04:12 Deployment Experiences and Leadership
07:24 Transition to Academia and Research
14:49 Political Awakening and Decision to Run
29:34 Political Manipulation and Media Influence
33:14 Texas State House: Structure and Sessions
36:12 Challenges of Part-Time Legislature
40:48 Campaign Strategies and Rural Outreach
43:01 Flooding Issues and Community Impact
49:18 Final Thoughts and Candidate's Vision
 

The Foolish Optimist: Behind the candidates with Joyce Takako

In this episode of the Foolish Optimist podcast, Amy McDonald engages in a deep conversation with Joyce Takako, a TikTok influencer known for organizing lists of Democratic candidates. You can follow her work @joycetakakoedgington 
They discuss Joyce's journey from LGBTQ activism to political involvement, the importance of healthcare reform, and the urgent need for better veteran care. Joyce, a cancer survivor and single mom, shares her current focus on supporting progressive candidates and empowering voters through social media. The episode highlights the significance of community activism, the impact of grassroots efforts, and the necessity of electing empathetic and progressive leaders.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Kickoff00:30 Guest Introduction: Joyce Takako00:52 Joyce's Political Journey01:52 The Impact of the AIDS Crisis02:58 Joyce's Current Life and TikTok Activism03:39 Compiling Candidate Lists06:41 Challenges Facing Veterans10:50 Healthcare and Universal Coverage13:54 Motherhood and Birthing Experiences18:48 Summer Plans and Personal Background24:16 Upcoming Elections and Progressive Candidates30:09 Challenges for Working-Class Candidates31:03 Democratic Party Unity and Leadership31:37 Frustrations with Current Political Climate32:59 Admiration for Progressive Candidates34:57 The Role of PAC Money in Campaigns38:20 Highlighting Veteran Candidates42:55 Empathy and Representation in Politics47:24 Encouraging Political Engagement54:26 The Importance of Government Support56:33 Conclusion: Supporting Democratic Candidates

The Foolish Optimist: Elijah King

Follow Elijah on TikTok at ElijahKingNC, Insta at ElijahKingforDurham, or on his website https://www.elijahkingfordurham.com/
 
In this episode of 'The Foolish Optimist,' host Amy McDonald interviews Elijah King, candidate for Durham City Council Ward One in the 2025 election. A lifelong Durham resident and community organizer, King discusses his motivations for running, including addressing the needs of diverse communities such as Black and brown residents, workers, and small business owners. He highlights key issues like transportation, small business support, and youth opportunities. King shares his personal stories of overcoming challenges and emphasizes his grassroots approach to campaigning. The discussion also covers innovative campaign strategies, such as virtual rallies, and King's efforts to build a coalition that truly represents all of Durham’s residents.
 
 
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:39 Elijah King's Motivation for Running
02:21 Key Issues Facing Durham
05:30 Small Businesses and Community Building
07:38 Campaign Strategies and Community Engagement
12:55 Elijah King's Background and Achievements
18:04 Challenges and Hypocrisy in Politics
23:28 Embracing Authenticity: Tattoos and Realness
23:50 Recruitment Challenges and Overcoming Public Speaking Fears
24:12 Passion for Trains and Vinyl Records
26:42 Scooter Adventures and Community Visibility
27:41 Durham's Political Landscape and Coalition Building
30:33 Addressing Inequality and Building Opportunities
32:15 Bull City Futures Fund and Community Engagement
37:18 Rapid Fire Questions with Elijah King
 

The Foolish Optimist: Dani Sterbinsky

In this episode of 'The Foolish Optimist,' host Amy McDonald interviews Dani Sterbinsky, a Navy veteran and HR professional running for the US House of Representatives seat in Arizona's Ninth District. Dani discusses her background, motivation for running, and the key issues facing her district, including education funding and economic inequality. She emphasizes the importance of grassroots campaigning and building community networks to reach voters. The conversation delves into her personal experiences, her stance on various policies, and the challenges of modern political campaigning.
 
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:58 Dani's Background and Motivation
02:14 Life in the Navy
05:02 Post-Navy Career and Social Work
06:34 Challenges in Social Work
10:10 Parenting and Campaigning
11:35 Arizona's Ninth District Issues
12:38 Education and Economic Concerns
23:49 Campaign Strategy and Voter Engagement
28:02 Challenges of Voting Accessibility
29:29 Campaign Information and Signature Collection
31:38 Fundraising and Campaign Finance
35:27 Randomized Personal Questions
40:53 Favorite Politicians and Political Memories
47:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Foolish Optimist: Marla Bautista, Communications

Navigating the Path of Political Communications with Marla Bautista |
 
The Foolish Optimist In this episode of The Foolish Optimist, host Amy McDonald sits down with Marla Bautista, author, TEDx speaker, and CEO of the Bautista Project, Inc., a nonprofit organization assisting the homeless in Tampa, Florida. Marla, who has a master's degree in communications from Syracuse University, shares her experiences as a communications manager for political campaigns. They discuss the critical role of support teams in elections, the misconceptions about politicians, the importance of local elections, and the impact of politics on daily life. They also delve into Marla's journey into politics, the influence of social media and AI in campaigns, the role of money in politics, and the challenges of running as a new candidate. Join the conversation and gain insights into the intricate world of political communications and community advocacy.
00:00 Introduction to the Special Series
00:19 Meet Marla Bautista: Author and Advocate
00:54 The Role of Communications in Politics
02:00 Campaign Success Stories
02:33 The Importance of Local Elections
02:40 Marla's Journey into Politics
03:21 The Impact of Politics on Daily Life
04:12 Addressing Homelessness and Community Advocacy
07:20 The Reality of a Police State
10:34 Security Theater and Public Perception
19:52 The Influence of Money in Politics
27:48 The Role of AI and Technology in Modern Campaigns
33:31 Grassroots Campaigning and Community Engagement
40:11 Advice for Aspiring Politicians
41:57 Championing Narratives in Politics
42:46 The Shiny Star: Deja Fox's Campaign
44:24 Appealing to Older Voters
48:50 The Power of Media in Politics
52:54 Adapting to New Political Realities
01:05:06 Building a Solid Campaign Team
01:15:09 The Future of Politics and Technology

The Foolish Optimist: Brian Del Vecchio

Brian Del Vecchio is running for office in Arizona's first congressional district.  An attorney, a judge, and a father he's running because we need to address the affordability crisis and make sure future generations of Americans are taken care of with universal healthcare and free lunch for children.  You can follow his campaign, donate, or volunteer at del4az.com.
 
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:13 Brian Delvecchio's Motivation to Run
04:13 Challenges in Modern Politics
10:08 Historical Context and Media Influence
31:45 Economic Concerns in Arizona's First District
38:34 Healthcare Costs and Scams
38:56 The Broken Healthcare System
39:56 Medicare for All: A Solution
40:31 Economic Impact of Healthcare
40:41 Employment and Healthcare Ties
41:25 Universal Healthcare Benefits
41:34 Steps Towards Universal Healthcare
42:58 The Role of Congress in Healthcare Reform
43:19 The Power of Choice and Will
47:01 The Need for Empathy in Policy
47:52 Feeding Children: A Moral Imperative
52:21 Political Strategy and Campaigns
01:04:48 Diversity in Scottsdale
01:07:32 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
 

The Foolish Optimist: Alexandria Braswell

Alex Braswell is the first nominee for the Democratic party in Alabama's 11th District in over 15 years, and she is the first woman Democratic nominee in history. An interpreter by trade, she's running in a special election for Alabama's state house. You can follow her campaign at https://braswellfor11.com/

The Foolish Optimist: Jump Shepherd

Interview with Jump Shepherd: A Run for the US Senate
 
In this episode of 'The Foolish Optimist,' host Amy McDonald interviews Jump Shepherd, a candidate for the US Senate in Illinois. Jump, a scientist and construction worker, discusses his motivations for running for office in 2026, emphasizing the urgency of addressing environmental issues, economic instability, and middle-class struggles.
 
He outlines his campaign platform, which includes a focus on affordable housing, fair wages, and environmental policy. Jump also delves into his plans to challenge political incumbents, reform the tax system, and support union strength. The interview concludes with a lighthearted rapid-fire round and highlights ways for supporters to get involved in his campaign.
 
 

The Foolish Optimist: Kelly Brown

Kelly Brown is running for Wisconsin's 6th District, encompassing Sheboygan, Fon du Lac. You can follow them on Instagram at FriendsofKellyBrown and on TikTok at KellyforWI.06

The Foolish Optimist: Mike Swanson

Mike Swanson is running for US Senate in Texas! He understands what working class folks are going through, and is ready to fight for them in Washington DC! You can donate to his campaign at MikeSwanson.Org.