Let Them Eat Toast

In this conversation, Chad McKenna discusses his candidacy for Congress in Minnesota's 8th district, sharing his extensive background in the labor movement and his commitment to representing the values of Northern Minnesota. He expresses disappointment with current Congressman Pete Stauber's actions, particularly regarding infrastructure and healthcare. McKenna advocates for student loan forgiveness and emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing in his campaign. He aims to connect with rural voters and address unique challenges faced by the district, including healthcare access and Medicaid concerns. Throughout the discussion, he highlights the need for transparency in government and a focus on community engagement.

In this engaging conversation, comedian Cliff Cash shares his journey from various careers to becoming a stand-up comic and activist. He discusses the importance of persistence in activism, his political involvement, and the need for strong leadership in the current political climate. Cliff dives deep into his research on Donald Trump's connections, the impact of Trump's actions, and the struggles of the Democratic Party in messaging. He advocates for evolving protest strategies, a multi-part plan for activism, and the amplification of veteran voices. The conversation also touches on media accountability and the role of humor in politics. In this conversation, the speakers delve into various themes surrounding politics, wealth, cultural appropriation, and regional identity. They critique the behavior of billionaires in politics, discuss the absurdities of cultural appropriation, and reflect on their own Southern identities and family dynamics.

In this engaging conversation, Miranda Kazos (@myrandapolisci) shares her unique journey from being a Republican political operative to embracing progressive values. She discusses her early political involvement, the behind-the-scenes dynamics of Republican campaigns, and the often staged nature of political events. Miranda highlights the financial mismanagement within Republican campaigns and the inappropriate behavior she encountered in political spaces. She also delves into the manipulation of women voters and the strategic legislative tactics employed by the right, emphasizing the importance of understanding these dynamics for effective political engagement. 

This week Off_Jawaggon & Taylor bring on comedian Peter Angelo, and he shares his journey from being a blue-collar worker to a successful comedian as well as navigating his identity as a gay man in a traditionally masculine environment. He discusses the cultural perceptions of Connecticut, the intersection of metal music and comedy, and the funny side of coming out to co-workers. Peter emphasizes the importance of authenticity in comedy and reflects on the dynamics of political views within the LGBTQ community. 

In this engaging conversation, Jessica Craven shares her journey into activism and content creation, emphasizing the importance of taking action in the face of political challenges. She discusses her newsletter, 'Chop Wood, Carry Water,' which encourages daily engagement in democracy. The conversation explores the philosophy behind her activism, the role of charisma in politics, and the challenges faced by the DNC in selecting effective leaders. Jessica's insights highlight the need for practical action and the complexities of political engagement in today's society.

Off_JaWaggon and Taylor bring on an interesting guest this week who believes in the impact of the Independent voter. We generally don't consider independents to be a massive force for change but Lura makes the case. In this conversation, Laura Forcum discusses the role of independent voters in the political landscape, emphasizing the importance of engaging those who feel politically homeless. She shares insights from her research on political values, the impact of social media on polarization, and the emotional dynamics of outrage. The discussion also touches on the need for belonging in political ideologies and the future of independent voters in shaping democracy.

Off_JaWaggon and Taylor bring on a former Republican congressional candidate and creator of the OppScore. In this engaging conversation, John Paul Moran discusses his background as a Republican and his experiences running for Congress in Massachusetts. He emphasizes the need for common sense in politics, the corruption he perceives in the political system, and introduces his concept of the Opportunity Score, a metric designed to measure politicians' alignment with the will of the people.

Off_JaWaggon and Taylor bring on a former Republican congressional candidate and creator of the OppScore. In this engaging conversation, John Paul Moran discusses his background as a Republican and his experiences running for Congress in Massachusetts. He emphasizes the need for common sense in politics, the corruption he perceives in the political system, and introduces his concept of the Opportunity Score, a metric designed to measure politicians' alignment with the will of the people. 

In this conversation, Off JaWaggon and Austin Archer discuss the intersection of comedy and sociopolitical commentary, exploring the challenges of engaging audiences on social media platforms like TikTok. They delve into the misconceptions surrounding arguments in political discourse, the overwhelming nature of current events, and the expectations placed on content creators. The discussion highlights the importance of specialization in activism and the need for creators to set boundaries with their audiences. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of political ideologies, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by the left in maintaining unity and effectiveness in a two-party system. They discuss the ideological diversity within the left compared to the homogeneity of the right, the critical consumption of media, and the self-policing tendencies that can hinder progress. 

Off_JaWaggon and Taylor have Ken Casey, lead singer of the Dropkick Murphys on the podcast, and he shares the band's journey from its humble beginnings to becoming a prominent name in Celtic punk music. He discusses the band's origins, musical influences, and the importance of maintaining energy and passion over three decades in the music industry. The conversation highlights the blend of Irish music and punk rock, the band's work ethic, and the evolving nature of their fanbase. Ken talks about the band's long-standing engagement with political themes in their music, emphasizing their commitment to representing the working class and the underdog. He reflects on the challenges of navigating political discourse with fans, particularly those who identify with MAGA, and the complexities of confronting extremism in society. Ken also addresses the relationship between law enforcement and the community, highlighting the need for accountability and the courage required to speak out against systemic issues. In this conversation, Ken Casey of Dropkick Murphys discusses the intersection of class struggle and political issues, emphasizing the importance of solidarity among the working class and the role of punk music in advocating for social justice. He critiques the divisive tactics used by the wealthy to distract the public from significant issues, such as immigration and economic inequality. 

In this engaging conversation, Off_Jawaggon and Taylor have on Chris Kluwe, former punter for the Minnesota Vikings, as he shares his journey from the NFL to becoming a prominent activist for LGBTQ rights and social justice. He discusses his experiences in the league, his passion for music, and the importance of standing up against injustice. The conversation also delves into the political landscape, exploring the responsibilities of individuals in the face of societal issues and the need for collective action against oppression. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of American politics, discussing the consequences of gerrymandering, the historical context of political parties, and the impact of inequality and racism on society. They reflect on the legacy of past leaders, particularly Reagan, and the current state of activism and civil disobedience. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the alarming rise of authoritarianism and extremism in contemporary politics, emphasizing the importance of recognizing warning signs from those who have experienced fascist regimes. They explore the complexities of political discourse, the challenges of meeting bullies where they are, and the implications of white privilege in activism. The conversation also touches on the existential threat of climate change and the responsibility of white voters in addressing systemic issues. Ultimately, the speakers call for a collective effort to create a better future through informed activism and engagement.

The conversation continues with Andrew Mercado, as we explore the implications of open border trade policies, the manipulation of the US economy by billionaires, and the ongoing war in Ukraine. It discusses the changing perceptions of the United States in Ukraine, the importance of soft power, and the broader geopolitical consequences of supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression. In this conversation, Taylor discusses the complex historical and contemporary issues surrounding World War II, NATO's role, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He emphasizes the complicity of various nations in the events leading up to World War II, the potential for a new global conflict if Russia's aggression is not checked, and the importance of supporting Ukraine and its leadership under Zelensky.

Off_Jawaggon and Taylor chat with Andrew Mercado, who shares his experiences and insights on the ongoing war in Ukraine, discussing the resilience of the Ukrainian people, the role of international support, and the political implications of the conflict. The discussion also touches on the misinformation surrounding the war, the challenges faced by the Democratic Party, and the economic impacts of the conflict. Mercado emphasizes the importance of accurate information and the need for a strong response from the West to support Ukraine.  

Off_JaWaggon and Taylor bring on Zee Runs Campaigns to discuss the challenges faced by the Democratic Party, particularly in relation to populism, the 2016 election, and the need for a stronger political infrastructure. We emphasize the importance of engaging with rural America, the failures of past campaigns, and the necessity for young activists to take charge. The conversation highlights the disconnect between the party's strategies and the needs of the electorate, advocating for a more aggressive and grassroots approach to politics. You know we have to discuss the shortcomings of the Democratic Party's strategies, particularly its defensive posture against Republican policies.   Zee Cohen-Sanchez discusses the strategies and goals of the National Ground Game, emphasizing the need for grassroots organizing, community engagement, and building a progressive infrastructure to influence elections. The dialogue explores the importance of mobilizing support, understanding voter behavior, and fostering empathy in political discussions, particularly with those who may not align with progressive values. 

In this conversation, Vic shares his unexpected journey into political activism through social media, driven by a desire to oppose authoritarianism and support progressive candidates. He discusses his military background, the challenges of shifting from a conservative to a progressive stance, and the importance of grassroots efforts in political campaigns. The conversation also touches on the role of the judicial branch in curbing executive overreach, the influence of foreign powers in American politics, and the need for unity among diverse political groups to combat rising authoritarianism. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the challenges faced by the Democratic Party in effectively communicating their policies and appealing to rural voters. They highlight the need for a stronger presence in media to counteract right-wing narratives and the importance of grassroots activism in local politics. The launch of the 'Find Out Podcast' is introduced as a new initiative aimed at reaching a broader audience and engaging more people in political discourse. The speakers emphasize the significance of civic engagement and the responsibility of individuals to participate in their local communities to effect change.

OffJawaggon and Taylor bring on Pissed Off Bartender again to discuss the current political landscape, expressing disillusionment with both major parties. They critique the ineffectiveness of Democratic leadership and the strategies employed by Republicans, particularly in relation to school vouchers and federal aid. The discussion also touches on the identity of state governance and the need for accountability and empathy in politics, especially among those who have previously supported harmful policies. The importance of empathy and advocacy in society, discussing the challenges faced by marginalized voices and the responsibility of those who can speak out.

Off_Jawaggon and Taylor have Will Westmoreland on the podcast! Tune in for a really great discussion on farming subsidies, welfare and how progressive policies change the lives around us more than people expect.

Off_JaWaggon and Taylor talk with TrevorBWG and Grid Squares about all things deep state and our potential constitutional crisis. Trump is bound to step over the line and if the court can no longer stop him, it will be up to regular people to say no to Facism.

Off_Jawaggon and Taylor hang out with Chris @FlyFastPlanes! We also get in on some Reagan bashing and his response, or lack thereof to the AIDs crisis. Lastly, tune into the ending for our longing for Elon Musk to face off against Mark Zuckerberg in the cage.

Off_Jawaggon and Taylor are back again this week along with not 1, but 2 MN State Representatives!! Please listen in on this historic Let Them Eat Toast episode and learn how we can fight against some of the really terrible things the next couple years will bring. Additionally we are hearing about the "coup" in the MN House by Republican reps 1st hand.

OffJawaggon and Taylor talk to Leah Midgarden, who works with the DFL, and soon to work for the DNC! Learn about Labor Unions, and more..

Offjawaggon & Taylor bring on PissedOffBartender and chat about, you might have guessed it, politics! Please listen in to episode 2 of 2 and really savor the angst towards the status of our country.

Offjawaggon & Taylor bring on PissedOffBartender and chat about, you might have guessed it, politics! Please listen in to episode 1 of 2 and enjoy the longer episodes. 

OffJawaggon and Taylor interview @EmilywBaden and she spills all the tea on the Alito Jan. 6 Flag, how much of a Karen Marth Alito was. We also begrudginly discuss the Supreme C()#ts of the United States of America and why they are out of control.   Join us for Season 3 and Episode 69..... oh yeah.

Off_Jawaggon and Taylor chat with Jon at CounterPointPolitics and The Left Wing podcast, and the news needs to calm down, it's Christmas... Tune in and hear about a future of the Democratic party that has some balls, and has some more seats in congress and the White House.

OffJawaggon & Taylor bring on Dr. Bronte to the podcast to talk everything healthcare including abortion and UHC... both UHCs. We hope you enjoy this conversation with a healthcare professional, and can learn more about the issues our country will potentially face under a Trump/Republican lead government.

OffJawaggon and Taylor bring on Brett/Author for the podcast and talk all things military, and being gay. Tune in and hear some great stories, a little talk about socioeconomics as usual, and so much more...

Offjawaggon and Taylor interview Ken Webber and Gabby with Branding Democrats! We have been talking about Democratic messaging for a while now, so it was a really great time to talk with an expert on the subject. Tune in and learn about some branding.

Offjawaggon, Taylor & Andra bring on Elizabeth Jarosz to chat on the election, Donald Trump on the Apprentice and more! We dive deep into the reasons why voters seemed to be turned off by the Harris campaign.

Offjawaggon and Taylor talk with Andra (Ihopeyoufindyourdad) again and discuss the overall failing of Democratic messaging, and focus in on the recent election campain in particular.

Jordan and Taylor have Tennessee Brando on the show, and we discuss all things election and Democratic Party strategy (or lack thereof).

Jordan and Taylor breakdown the election results. A lot of us are asking how did this happen? What is going to happen next? How do we stop this from happening again. Tune in over the next few weeks as we work through it all.

Jordan and Taylor wrap up our conversation with Justin/MERJ, and continue with Elevated Access. Learn about the amazing volunteer effort of Elevated Access, and the unfortunate circumstances that have necessitated its existence.   Women's lives are in danger, and are on the line this election. Don't vote for the man who facilitated abortion being "sent back to the states", because that's what "everyone wanted".

Getting Men involved in women's business of getting men out of women's business. Jordan and Taylor have Justin from Men for Equity and Reproductive Justice or MERJ, and Mike from elevated access on the podcast. Hear about this Mens organization doing what is right for Women, and Women's rights, because Women's rights are Human Rights!

Jordan and Taylor have Mr. JonesX on the podcast, and get deep into a lot of the pressing political questions of our time and the upcoming election.   Vote!!

Jordan and Taylor finally discuss the hot potato political topic of abortion rights, and how it simply doesn't make one iota of sense to criminalize it whatsoever. We also realize as 2 white males we do not have a particularly unique perspective, but its an incredibly important topic that has wide reaching affects. Men should speak up and demand reproductive rights as much as women are.

Jordan and Taylor interview ClueMan! Tune in and hear some unique perspectives on politics, and a 1st hand experience on the Iran-Contra debacle and engagements with the Sandinistas.

Jordan and Taylor have a fun conversation with Andra (@hopeyoufindyourdad) and discus affordability with housing. Listen in as we fumble our way through a recent policy proposal, and talking about some of our favorite TV Shows.   PS Join us tonight for the VP Debate!

Jordan and Taylor discuss all things presidential debate and go over some new news. 

Jordan and Taylor breakdown the recent Russia you know meddling in the democracy of America... Learn too much about how Russia has attempted to disrupt our elections and sow discord in societies all across the world.

Jordan and Taylor examine the recent policy positions and "flip flops" of the new Harris/Walz Campaign. We ask how long "Brat Summer" is, because it seems like the honeymoon is over and the Democratic party was just cosplaying to maintain a progressive coalition. For anyone out there who interprets our criticisms as an argument for Trump... well we have not given up that this new administration can still fight for the people, and not party mega donors. Harris can be swayed by public sentiment, or lack thereof, and Walz is still the progressive we championed in Minnesota. We will see tonight at the debate if a course correction can be made.   Also this is our 52nd episode! We thank all of our supporters on Patreon and YouTube, as well as all of the listeners across the world. We hope to continue to make another 52!

Jordan and Taylor talk about the Harris-Walz ticket and how we need to hold their feet to the fire to actually get anything done when in power. We fully admit that "voting blue, no matter who" is a cringy, dumb thing to advocate for. We want to push progressive policies, like Walz has and keep Trump out of office. The best way to do that is vote blue down ballot. Its not perfect, but its the hand we are being dealt in this moment.

Jordan and Taylor talk about everything Walz, and the hope he gives us in the Democratic party. We are giving them some kudos where they have earned them, in hopes they keep it up! Listen in as we debunk all the right wing spin machine has to throw at us.

Jordan and Taylor discuss the openly contested seats that are more likely to switch parties than remain where they are. Mostly this is sub-optimal news, but we do find a silver lining or two to keep just enough hope up to allow us to continue. We hope you also share our faint optimism leading into November, and remember to push for Ranked Choice Voting wherever possible!

Jordan & Taylor get the privilege of interviewing Andrew Mercado who just returned from the frontlines of Ukraine, on a trip donating supplies to the soldiers. Get an inside look at the state of the Ukraine Russia conflict, and hear the story of Andrew's eventful career!

Jordan & Taylor discuss Kamala becoming the presumptive Presidential Nominee. Learn a little more about Kamala, and the new presidential race situation.

Jordan and Taylor continue to discuss political rhetoric surrounding the Trump assassination attempt and the RNC quick turnaround from "Unity" to divisiveness within days. We also take a seat and discuss JD Vance (but not a couch seat).

Jordan and Taylor talk about the assassination attempt, general political violence in our history and more! PS. We never advocate for violence at any point, and will continue to hold that stance. No one should feel compelled to commit violent acts especially in the United States, however we have acknowledged in the past the historical groups have had cause to start revolutions, and rebel against a government.

Jordan and Taylor get a chance to chat with another fall hopeful candidate Reed Olson. He has some really extensive experience with local government, and we got to hear about the struggle of small towns and how the people in small towns can also be dealing with the same issues big cities are. If you like the episode and his message certainly feel free to support his campaign, especially if you live in MN!

Jordan and Taylor discuss the disaster that is called a debate and review recent Supremely Stupid Court rulings. Join us in our disbelief in how we got to where we are today.

Jordan and Taylor talk to another fall hopeful candidate Eric Olson. He has some unique thoughts and ideas on local government, and we really enjoyed the conversation. If you like the episode and his message certainly feel free to support his campaign.