The Foolish Optimist with Amy McDonald

The Foolish Optimist: Jordan Wood, Candidate for US Senate in Maine

Follow Jordan's campaign at electjordan.com 
In this episode of the Foolish Optimist Podcast, host Amy McDonald interviews Jordan Wood, a US Senate candidate from Maine. Jordan discusses his background in combating corruption through his work with Democracy First and End Citizens United. He outlines his 2026 campaign priorities, focusing on fighting political corruption, democracy reform, and addressing key affordability issues such as healthcare, housing, and childcare. Jordan shares his experiences living in Maine and Washington, DC, his stance on bipartisan cooperation, and the impact of big money in politics. He emphasizes the importance of rebuilding trust with voters through transparency and engagement, including his commitment to holding regular town halls. The episode concludes with Jordan's reflections on personal motivations, his family life with his husband and daughter, and his deep connection to the community in Maine.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:26 Meet Jordan Wood: A Senate Candidate from Maine01:32 Jordan's Motivation for Running03:28 Tackling Political Corruption and Money in Politics05:37 Personal Stories and Campaign Finance Reform16:55 The Role of a Senator and Serving Constituents32:48 The Power of Failure and Resilience33:03 Campaign Strategies and Trust Building33:56 Political System and Reality TV Analogy34:39 Town Halls and Voter Engagement35:41 Affordability Crisis and Childcare36:15 High Voter Turnout in Maine38:52 Community Organizing and Political Mobilization40:26 Demographic Shifts and Economic Impact47:59 Healthcare and Economic Decisions49:00 Campaign Goals and Future Vision53:00 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights58:50 Conclusion and Podcast Information
 

The Foolish Optimist: Josh Taveras, candidate in New York State’s 2nd Congressional District

You can follow Josh's campaign at JoshTaveras.com
 
Empowering Change with Josh Taveras
 
In this episode of the Foolish Optimist Podcast, Amy McDonald interviews Josh Taveras, a candidate for the US House of Representatives from New York's Second Congressional District. Josh, a proud gay Dominican American and first-generation college graduate, discusses his motivation to run for office and his commitment to implementing bold, people-first policies. They delve into Josh's background in community organizing, his focus on issues such as housing affordability, public transportation, and LGBTQ+ rights, and his grassroots campaign efforts. Josh also shares his personal experiences and how they drive his passion for creating positive change in his community.
 
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:48 Josh Taveras' Background and Motivation
01:40 Community Involvement and Impact
03:11 District Demographics and Challenges
05:01 Voter Engagement and Political Landscape
07:51 Housing Affordability Issues
10:35 Transportation and Accessibility
12:08 LGBTQ+ Rights and Challenges
14:57 Education and Disinformation
19:23 Campaign Strategy and Grassroots Efforts
24:46 ICE Activity and Immigration Issues
29:26 Website Information and Smart Domain Choices
29:55 Favorite Thing About the District: The Food
30:28 Taveras Taste: Promoting Local Food Businesses
32:15 Advice for Young People Entering Politics
34:26 The Attention Economy and Taking Breaks
36:58 Rapid Fire Questions: Getting to Know Josh
46:31 Personal Struggles and Motivation for Running
48:57 Conclusion and Where to Follow Josh
50:49 Podcast Wrap-Up and Thank You

The Foolish Optimist: Kyle I PhD

Deep Dive: The Importance of Down Ballot Races with Kyle PhD (follow him on TikTok and Bluesky at KyleIPHD)
In this special episode of The Foolish Optimist, host Amy McDonald interviews Kyle PhD, a neuroscientist who turned to TikTok during the 2024 election cycle. They discuss Kyle's journey from earning his PhD in neuroscience to becoming a viral voice on TikTok, highlighting down ballot races across the U.S. They explore the significance of local elections, the impact of grassroots activism, and the importance of addressing propaganda in today's political landscape. Tune in to hear about Kyle's inspiring journey, the role of hope in activism, and their shared commitment to effecting change in American politics.
00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement00:22 Meet Kyle PhD: From Neuroscience to TikTok Activism01:45 Understanding Down Ballot Races03:49 The Importance of Local Elections04:19 Kyle's Political Journey and Viral Moments06:35 The Power of Hope and Political Engagement14:55 Challenges and Opportunities in Upcoming Elections17:01 Combating Propaganda and Disinformation30:11 The Republican Platform and Purity Politics30:37 Challenges in Democratic Campaigns31:10 Hope and Action in Alabama32:41 The Big Tent of the Left33:09 Personal Political Identity35:54 Supreme Court and Judicial Concerns46:32 The Importance of Empathy and Community50:30 Dungeons & Dragons and Building Community57:38 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

The Foolish Optimist: N'Kiyla 'Jasmine' Thomas Candidate for US Senate from Oklahoma

Follow Jasmine's Campaign for US Senate out of Oklahoma at NkiylaforOK on all socials
Campaigning for Change: N'Kiyla Jasmine Thomas on Equity, Representation, and Tribal Sovereignty
In this episode of The Foolish Optimist podcast, host Amy McDonald interviews N'Kiyla Jasmine Thomas, a senatorial candidate for Oklahoma. Jasmine shares her background as a proud nurse, military spouse, and Chickasaw woman, and discusses her historic run for the U.S. Senate. She emphasizes the importance of fighting for working families, equitable healthcare, and real support for military and special needs families. Jasmine also speaks about her unique perspective as a multiracial woman and addresses key issues in Oklahoma, such as education, housing, and the challenges faced by small businesses. The conversation highlights her commitment to representing and serving all Oklahomans while driving meaningful change.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest00:15 Jasmine Thomas: Background and Motivation02:49 Challenges and Experiences in Healthcare05:01 Tribal Sovereignty and Cultural Preservation14:49 Housing and Education Issues in Oklahoma22:46 Accountability in Government and Personal Growth31:00 Consequences of Industry Misconduct31:14 Sharing Personal Work Experiences31:55 The Value of Diverse Professional Backgrounds32:47 Challenges Faced by Small Business Owners36:59 Healthcare and Medicaid Issues41:46 Voter Turnout and Political Engagement48:07 Campaign Strategies and Community Involvement51:53 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks
 

The Foolish Optimist: Loren Colin, candidate for California's 34th Congressional District

Follow Loren's campaign at LorenColinForCongress.com.
 
On this episode of The Foolish Optimist Podcast, host Amy McDonald welcomes Loren Colin, an independent candidate running for the US House District 34 in California. Colin, a Southern California native with a background in marketing and technology, discusses his journey, motivations for running, and his vision for progressive policies to break the current two-party system. The conversation covers a range of topics, including healthcare, housing, homelessness, economic disparity, and the importance of empathy and anti-racism. Tune in to hear Collin's thoughts on the need for governmental change and how his unique perspective aims to address the needs of one of the most diverse districts in the country.
 
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:57 Loren's Political Journey and Independent Run
01:55 Defining Independence and Political Ideologies
04:50 Government's Role and Economic Policies
15:38 District Overview and Local Issues
20:41 Housing Crisis and Solutions
32:27 Campaign Strategy and Vision
33:25 Comparing Healthcare Systems: US vs. Germany and Japan
34:11 Taxation and Public Services: A Closer Look
34:55 Racism and Historical Context
36:28 The Benefits of Anti-Racism
37:09 Political Shifts and Self-Interest
39:20 The Role of Fear and Anger in Politics
39:55 The Common Enemy: Oligarchs and Billionaires
55:54 The Independent Movement and Political Change
57:33 Rapid Fire Questions with Loren Collin
01:02:13 Conclusion and Call to Action
 

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