Midwest Misfits

Hey Misfits, Thanks for joining us for this weeks bonus episode as Colleen and I chat about the election and what has transpired since. Also, we want to thank you for sticking with us this past year and wanted to let you know that we are going to take a break until after the holidays. Have a very Happy Thanksgiving and we hope to see you in 2023. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits, Today we are chatting with Mom, entrepreneur and Nebraska State Senator Megan Hunt. We were lucky to briefly catch her during her busy re-election campaign for Nebraska Legislature District 8. We are now under a week until the midterms so make sure and drop off your ballots or set your reminders for next Tuesday, November 8th and get out there and vote! Thanks for listening to this episode of Midwest misfits. Make sure and subscribe to our show so you don't miss a thing. You can also find us on social media @Mistfitpod. For more on Senator Hunt check her out and follow her on social media at: Twitter: @NebraskaMegan Facebook: @MeganHuntNE IG: @NebraskaMegan --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

We are back with the 2nd half of Colleen's discussion with Dr. Erin Feichtinger, Policy Director of the Women's Fund. If you missed the first episode you can check it out here: https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/aRHHyOTUrub For more on Dr. Feichtinger and to learn where you an get in touch, check out here bio here: https://www.omahawomensfund.org/staff/erin-feichtinger/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Today we have a special guest, State Senator Tony Vargas who is currently running for the House of Representatives. Senator Vargas began his career as a public-school teacher and member of the Omaha Public School Board. He then went on to the Nebraska Senate is hoping to win your vote for Congress. Thank you for listening to this episode of Midwest Misfits. For more about Senator Vargas's campaign, visit https://www.vargasfornebraska.com/. There are only a couple weeks until the mid-terms so mark your calendars and get out to vote on November 8th! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Dr. Erin Feichtinger Represents District 2 on the Metropolitan Community College Board of Governors.She joined the Women's Fund as Policy Director in May 2022. She brings her extensive experience working on policy to increase housing security, food security and economic security at both the local and state level. Dr. Feichtinger has worked on several successful policy initiatives including Omaha's Rental Registration and Proactive Inspection Ordinance as well as legislation increasing tenant protections and access to justice, increasing access to SNAP and affordable childcare. Her most recent efforts to secure federal funding for rental assistance and legal representation for tenants in eviction court has resulted in increased housing stability for all Nebraskans. Dr. Feichtinger has a degree in special education and a Ph.D. in history from Loyola University Chicago. She loves reading, research, music, learning the drums and spending time watching her daughter interact with the world. https://www.todaysomahawoman.com/news/erin-feichtinger/ “While Erin Feichtinger, Ph.D., is not a journalist, she “plays one on Twitter”—thanks to her undying passion for housing justice. Her tweet threads detailing Douglas County Eviction Court give a bird's eye view into the housing crisis, and she is often asked if she is a reporter. She works with case managers and attorneys and partners with organizations like Metro Area Continuum of Care for the Homeless (MACCH) and Legal Aid of Nebraska to problem-solve and streamline the process so people can apply for rental assistance. “I genuinely believe that most of my job is trying to make their lives easier, from writing policies to showing up to the Legislature and going to City Council meetings.” Feichtinger says during 2020, she spent a lot of time with elected officials, securing rental, food and utility assistance funds from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. “I couldn't be prouder to work every day with the absolute heroes who took on our neighbor's collective pain and panic and helped them navigate through it all.” She has championed human rights from the start. In high school, she was a counselor at Camp Munroe, a recreational therapy program from UNMC's Munroe-Meyer Institute for kids and adults with physical and/or mental disabilities. “Camp Munroe changed my life and probably set me on this path. I find that I always want to know why things are the way they are, and working with people with disabilities made me see the bigger systems at work that can often make life difficult for people,” she says.” https://www.civicnebraska.org/20220531-sda-erin-feichtinger/ Each year, Civic Nebraska's Strengthening Democracy Awards recognize Nebraskans whose work embodies the spirit of a modern, robust democracy. Civic Nebraska honors Erin Feichtinger of Omaha with the 2022 Civic Catalyst Award for relentlessly fighting for housing justice in Nebraska. Erin leads calls to action, helps Nebraskans tackle the state's housing affordability issues, and has been a force in the lobby at the statehouse on behalf of emergency rental assistance for the state's residents. In the most recent session of the Nebraska Legislature, Erin was instrumental in organizing, educating, and activating hundreds of Nebraskans to fight for aid, as well as other matters of fundamental housing fairness at the state and local levels. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits, This week we are chatting with Senator Carol Blood and catching up on her campaign and what the state of Nebraska is talking about. For more on Senator Blood and how you can help her campaign, visit Elect Carol Blood. To check out our past interview with Senator Blood, click here: Senator Carol Blood for Governor --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Today on Midwest Misfits we are talking with Scout Richters with the ACLU of NE For over 50 years, the ACLU of Nebraska has worked in courts, legislatures, and communities to protect the constitutional and individual rights of all people. With a nationwide network of offices and millions of members and supporters, the ACLU takes up the toughest civil liberties fights. Also joining the conversation is Andi Curry Grubb State Executive Director - of Planned Parenthood North Central States Advocates of Nebraska Planned Parenthood Advocates of Nebraska (PPAN) is an independent nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that works to educate and empower the electorate regarding issues of sexual and reproductive health and related rights of Nebraskans. Finally, it always helps to know how your senator voted last time. So we wanted to quickly let NE listeners know how their senators voted on a total trigger ban last session. OPPOSED EXTREME TOTAL BAN: Blood, Bostar, J. Cavanaugh, M. Cavanaugh, Day, DeBoer, M. Hansen, Hunt, McCollister, McKinney, Morfeld, Pansing Brooks, Vargas, Walz, Wishart PLEASE SEND THEM A THANK YOU NOTE! SUPPORTED EXTREME TOTAL BAN: Aguilar, Albrecht, Arch, Bostelman, Brandt, Brewer, Briese, Clements, Dorn, Erdman, Flood, Friesen, Geist, Gragert, Halloran, B. Hansen, Hilgers, Hilkemann, Hughes, Jacobson, Kolterman, Lindstrom, Linehan, Lowe, McDonnell, Moser, Murman, Sanders, Slama, Stinner, Williams (Gov. Ricketts has since appointed Sen. Dover to replace Sen. Flood, serving out a term that ends January 2025.) >>>> EXCUSED NOT VOTING: Lathrop, Pahls, Wayne (Gov. Ricketts has since appointed Sen. Kauthto replace the late Sen. Pahls until the November midterm elections.) --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Colleen and Leah here, ramping up some content to get you fired up for the 2024 mid-term elections. Today we have a bonus episode filled with a discussion about the overturning of Roe v wade, the recent raid at Mar-a-Lago and other hot topics. But stay tuned and subscribe as we have a great chat with Andi Curry Grubb, executive director of Planned Parenthood Advocates of Nebraska and Scout Richters, Senior Legal & Policy Counsel, ACLU of Nebraska. We also have a conversation with Nebraska Democrat for Governor, Senator Carol Blood. I promise you won't want to miss so stick around. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Today we are talking about what is on all of our minds. The fate of abortion in the United States. Thanks for listening! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits, Today we have a lovely chat with Kara Teri, candidate for Elkhorn School Board. Kara is an Elkhorn High alumn she is a human resource professional with more than 15 years of experience and a Master's Degree in Strategic Management of HR. we are talking about her platform, her goals and breaking down the long list of candidates. Thanks for listening! Thanks for listening today and remember to fill out those ballots and get them sent in asap. The deadline is May 10th. Follow us on social at @misfitpod and please, if you are enjoying the show and want to support us, leave us a review or donate at MidwestMisfits.com Kara Teri on Facebook Vote Kara For Elkhorn --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Today we are back with Coaching with Candi. The beautiful, magical Candi Jones digging into Survivor's Rising: Demanding change and accountability of the systems and individuals perpetuating the unequal power that results insubordination, exploitation, oppression, and abuse. It is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and we are digging into sexual assault, domestic abuse, and of course there is a Content Warning for anyone that needs to protect their peace and trauma. Coaching with Candi 'Where Healing Happens' Candi Jones is an experienced Transformation coach and a speaker that heals and you just might be in your shedding season. You are Bent, but NEVER Broken. This is your SEASON to be: Emotionally Healthy Professionally Thriving Authentically Living Whatever is important to you, is important to me. Together we will develop the habits and skills to effectively deal with the challenges and emotional moments you will encounter in life and in business. The Truth is Right Beneath the Surface In addition to 1-on-1 consultations and group sessions, I regularly host workshops and seminars for businesses that want to understand the value in developing their best talent and meeting them where they are. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

It's Midwest Misfits back from Spring Break hiatus. This is what happens when you move a lot and have 4 kids all in different schools and different schedules. Today. Today is going to be a powerful episode with our dear friend and returning guest Candi Jones. Let me give you a little refresher on Candi. Candi was a recent recipient of the Greater Omaha Chamber Young Professionals 2020 Change Maker award. She is a vice president of HR and DEI, while also being a powerhouse life and career coach. My sincere hope is you can feel and sense the alchemy and power through Candi's energy, voice, and storytelling. My life shifted by this conversation you are about to listen to. I hope yours does as well. We start this episode with a little banter on HR, the education system, and making space for everyone. But then we get into the meat which is Candi's work on the Board of Survivors Rising. Candi was embarking on a personal journey of reflection, beginning to open up about the sexual trauma and rape she experienced at age 12 to heal herself and found power in helping others in their journey. Being trauma-informed is a buzzword, but we are going to unpack what that means and what that looks like in the real world. Why don't people see the human trafficking going on in their own homes and communities. We spent several hours talking and have gotten it down to 2 impact episodes. One today and the second part next week. Please listen, learn something, and for damn sure call Candi for your own healing and life, career coaching. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Meet Dave Pantos As an attorney who has worked tirelessly for a fair and equitable justice system, I have a passion for service and good government. I have had the honor to serve the Omaha community in many ways over the last two decades. Now, I want to build on the progress that so many others have made in this city and county and bring meaningful change to our system. This mission has been at the core of my career as an attorney, nonprofit leader, and advocate for people who haven't gotten a fair shake. And it is why I am running for County Attorney in Douglas County. As almost everyone would agree, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” But Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous words resonate so loudly today because we still have so much work to do. As County Attorney, I will draw on the wide range of experiences that I have in both judicial and administrative courtrooms. For example, as a Legal Aid attorney, I secured key victories on behalf of people with disabilities in federal court. I later served as Executive Director of the Legal Aid program in Nebraska, and I currently teach law and policy at the University of Nebraska at Omaha to the next generation of environmental science professionals. I am in court downtown every week representing tenants facing homelessness in eviction court. Every case I can get dismissed is a victory for a family that won't end up on the streets. During my tenure as Legal Aid's Executive Director, I helped to initiate the statewide health law project, the Access to Justice Centers in Omaha and Lincoln, and, in partnership with other local organizations, the Nebraska Immigration Legal Assistance Hotline. My nonprofit service also included a term as Executive Director of Autism Action Partnership. Under my leadership, we debuted the Partnership for Autism Career Employment. As a nonprofit leader, I was Board Chairperson of both the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands and the Domestic Violence Council. Recently, I served a term as one of the two District 3 Board Members on the Metropolitan Community College Board of Governors. Currently, I serve on the Board of Omaha Permaculture and the Nebraska Lawyers Trust Account Foundation and also serve on the Event Committee of Kids Can Community Center. Of course, family is the center of my life in Omaha. I am married to the incredible Jill Pantos, who has served our country through her work in the Navy--including several years overseas--and is now a nurse at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Omaha. My twin sons Miles and Lyndon are first-year students at Millard North High School. We have a blended family which also includes my step-daughter Rowan and step-son Cooper. As County Attorney, I will focus on crime reduction strategies through three principles: justice, fairness, and transparency. It's time for criminal justice reform in Nebraska, and it's an outside, independent voice who can make that happen. Please vote Pantos for County Attorney in 2022! Justice for James Scurlock. https://saytheirnamesmemorials.com/james-scurlock --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek is a mother, small-business owner, and volunteer running as an Independent for Nebraska Legislature for District 4 in west Omaha. She has a business background in human resources, recruiting and sales, and currently works from home alongside her husband. Cindy is a strong supporter of public schools, and their children attend Millard Public Schools. President of Rank the Vote Nebraska, Cindy is a voting rights and civic responsibility advocate. Cindy is a co-founder of the Nebraska Legislative Study Group, on the Nonpartisan Nebraska Advisory Board, and volunteers with several community, neighborhood, and political organizations. As a longtime Independent, my platform focuses on serving all of my neighbors.. .people and policies vs. parties and politics! Growing Small Businesses Our Schools Our Property Taxes Clean Air, Clean Water, Clean Energy Learn more about Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek at her website Cindy Maxwell-Ostdiek www.CindyForNebraska.com --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Midwest Misfits Podcast welcomes Nebraska Senator Carol Blood to the show. We learned so much from her and hope you will too. Carol Blood has been a tireless advocate for her constituents, particularly her district of Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue, NE. Take a peek at her legislation and you will quickly realize she gets pragmatic, common sense legislation passed that literally helps the every day person in her district. Electing Carol Blood to the Nebraska Governorship would make her the first Democratic female Governor for Nebraska and only the 2nd female in its entire history of 40 Governors thus far who have otherwise been all white males, which is not representative of our state's demographics in any way. Sexism is at play and we all need to work as hard as Carol to get her elected. She is up against multi-millionaire Trump allies. Millionaires are profoundly out of touch with the struggles the average person experiences in their daily lives. Have a listen. Spread the word. Donate. Volunteer. Let's get Carol Blood elected to Governor of Nebraska! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits, Today we have an interview with Lisa Schoenberger candidate for Millard School Board. She believes, as we do, that education is the most important investment we make as a community. We talk with Lisa about her platform and vision for Millard Public Schools. Thanks for listening to this episode! For more information about Lisa Schoenberger, visit LisaForMillard.com and learn how you can help her campaign and support her vision. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

We take a quick moment to address the controversial comments recently made on The View by Whoopi Goldberg. Did she deserve suspension? Stay tuned for our next episode coming out on Tuesday, February 8th on the Misfit Pod feed featuring Lisa Schoenberger candidate for Millard School Board. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hi Misfits. We are back! This is the official launch of Midwest Misfits season 2. We are gearing up for the midterms as well as the Omaha City elections coming up fast, in May. We have some great interviews already on the books so make sure and subscribe and follow us so you don't miss a thing. Thank you for your patience as we recharged and reorganized. We have some great things planned, so stay tuned. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey pod friends! We are dropping in on the feed to let you know we are still here, just on a little break. Take a listen to Colleen's first-hand experience of navigating family health issues during this pandemic. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

This week we are catching up with some HOT topics. First of all, what are conservatorships and why Brittany's is sooo bad. A little about Gabby Petito and other stories we just can't stop reading about. Follow us: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

This week we are chatting about the everchanging news and the hellscape that has become our society. Afghanistan, Ivermectin, Covid...school board meetings. You know, the usual! Join us won't you? Follow The Misfits: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits, welcome back to our show. Today we are talking with a regular contributor Shawntal Mallory and a new Friend Yvonnda Summers. This episode was inspired by a MotherJones.com article titled Do We Need to Abolish Child Protective Services and who better to comment than a guardian ad litem and public defender. Shawntal Mallory is an executive at a local non-profit organization that serves youth and young adults and their families. She is an adjunct professor at Creighton Law School and an attorney with 15 years of experience in Juvenile Court. Shawntal has represented thousands of children and families in abuse/ neglect, delinquency, divorce, custody, and adoption matters. Shawntal also works in diversity, equity and inclusion spaces and is an avid community volunteer and Board member. Her most rewarding title is "Mom" to her two sons. Yvonnda Summers is an Omaha native of Nebraska. She has been an attorney for 7 years and has been doing criminal defense for 6 years as a Public Defender. She chose to stay close to home and attend Creighton University. During her time there, she joined the historically Black sorority of Delta Sigma Theta Inc., became the President of the African-American Student Association (CUASA). She continued to Creighton School of Law where she won top awards in Juvenile Offender Law, traveled nationally with the Mock Trial Team, represented her class as the commencement speaker for graduation and was awarded for her outstanding service to the community. As she grew into a young attorney, she became even more impassioned to serve the indigent community and to better the criminal justice system as a whole. She moved to Virginia where she became a Public Defender in the city of Portsmouth. There, she was entrusted with high-profile cases after only 2 years of practice. Yvonnda was integral in establishing the Mental Health Court and served the juveniles of the city when the Commonwealth was seeking to enhance punishment to adult terms. Always wanting to serve her hometown, she moved back to Omaha where she joined the Public Defender's Office. She continues to use her skills from her life experiences to serve the low-income, under-represented juveniles, parents in cases of custodial removal and adult felony cases. Every day she is an activist in the courtroom arguing for fair treatment, upholding the Constitution and giving a voice to those who need to be heard in the criminal justice process. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Welcome back to Midwest Misfits. Today Colleen is having a conversation with Shee Covarrubias a local advocate for public school education. Shee is a mother of two in the Papillion- LaVista School District who has been busy online and around town educating the public on the pushback on what we are sure everyone has heard of as the dog whistle: CRT or Critical Race Theory. You will hear Shee educate us that we need to be calling it Anti-Racist Teaching along with seeing it for what it is. Over 21 states have been debating and tackling this issue. On this episode, we are going to break down what this ban would mean for all children. Local politics is where we can all have a huge impact by simply showing up. Show up to write your representatives. Show up to run for office. Show up to support others who are speaking up. Show up to speak up yourself. One person can't do it all. We need MORE people to show up in support of anti-racist teaching. We begin the discussion with the Health Standards. We had our first dive into Nebraska Health Standards with The Women's Fund leadership and since then there has been another draft. This NEW draft removes ALL language on gender identity, inclusive teaching and understanding. Ignorance and silence will perpetuate harm to come to these already marginalized communities. It is a natural progression into the wider issue of anti-racism education. Thanks for joining. We appreciate you. Links: NOISE Omaha did an excellent article on Critical Race Theory: https://www.noiseomaha.com/news-now/2021/6/20/why-nearly-100-people-gathered-to-talk-about-critical-race-theory-in-omaha The Teachers Union Calls the Ban for CRT Censorship.... Which it is: https://omaha.com/news/local/education/nebraska-teachers-union-defends-critical-race-theory-accuses-critics-of-censorship/article_05301c1a-ea44-11eb-8a1b-cf1567b633ab.html --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits, We are back!! We hope summer is treating you well. Listen to the first half of this fun chat and then head over to Patreon.com/MidwestMisfits to hear the second half. We promise it will be worth it. Thank you so much for your support! Follow the Misfits: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Today we are talking with Maggie Wood Executive Director and Cammy Watkins, Deputy Director of Inclusive Communities. Inclusive Communities is a non-profit organization providing education and advocacy related to the topics of diversity and inclusion through Human Relations. By partnering with schools and local businesses they work to confront prejudice, bigotry, and discrimination with a mission to society that is strengthened by diversity, inclusion, respect, and justice for all people. Thanks for listening to this episode of Midwest Misfits. We really hope you are enjoying your summer and having a lovely time with friends and family I think it is safe to say we all need it. Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes and don't forget to check out our exclusive content on Patreon. Thanks and we will see you next time. Inclusive Communities Website --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Today on Midwest Misfits we are talking with Morgann Freeman. Not the actor, but the badass midwestern activist. When Morgann Freeman announced her candidacy at 28 years old, she was one of the youngest candidates and the first Black woman candidate for Congress in the state's 153-year history. And the first openly queer candidate to run for any federal office in Nebraska's history. She is an entrepreneur who has done inclusive communications consulting, a community organizer who is passionate about connecting impacted people to the platforms and movements that make sure their voice is heard. We agree with Morgann that we need more activists and teachers and bartenders and mechanics in office. We need everyday people to guide legislation. The time is now. Morgan is working to build a movement, collective, and collaborative to build a deep, diverse bench that's savvy, revolutionary and empowered to get progressive of candidates in office. Polling of the general public, we are actually pretty progressive in thought. You would never know based on the rhetoric and conservative media that manipulate the news. From doxxed and targeted local young activist to running for Congress to campaign manager for Jasmine Harris for mayor to now creating Campaign Lab which will be changing the landscape for people to run for office with paid fellowships and campaign toolkits for intersectionally marginalized candidates to run and win. Get inspired and join the movement today on Midwest Misfits. Let's get to the show. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Today we are discussing what has, unfortunately, become controversial over the new health standards that have been put forth by the Nebraska department of education. The controversial parts mainly surrounding gender identity and sexuality. Ferial Pearson is joining me as my co-host today with Christon and Lisa Shultz from Women's Fund of Omaha. Ferial was the GAS leader which is the gay-straight alliance that supports LGBTQIA students and their heterosexual allies within the schools they attend. Truth is the kindest thing we can give folks. Kids are dying. Kids are taking their own lives or are subject to violence when we do not educate everyone on the harms caused by withholding information, education, and acceptance. We want what is best for our kids in our communities to thrive. Adults are barriers. Adults are bringing their own misinformation and ignorance to fight against these conversations because adults are uncomfortable. Our young people deserve honesty, truth, and information to lead their best lives. Silence, secrecy, and fear allow violence and abuse to flourish. Research-based education empowers young people. When we know better, we can do better. We ask that each of you share this with one person. There are powers that are trying to shut down this conversation and are opposing these health standards, so our best action is to spread the evidence. Empower others to understand the issue and speak up for it in their own lives in their own way. Influence and educate the people around you to combat the misinformation spreading. Dr. Ferial Pearson Women's Fund of Omaha Lisa Shulze- EDUCATION AND TRAINING MANAGER Christon MagTaggart- FREEDOM FROM VIOLENCE PROJECT DIRECTOR Women's Fund NDE landing page (sign the petition, write your board member, learn more!): https://www.omahawomensfund.org/nde-health-standards/ Access Granted: Recommendation reading list: https://getaccessgranted.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Access-Granted-Recommended-Reading-List.pdf Door Openers vs. Door Closers: https://getaccessgranted.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Door-Openers-vs-Door-Closers.pdf Insta: @access.granted (best way for young people to reach us) Women's Fund Freedom from Violence:https://www.omahawomensfund.org/our-work/ending-violence/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Today we are talking to a passionate Omaha Educator Brooke Studt and discussing her approach to education and how she goes above and beyond for her students. As you know, here on the pod we are big supporters of our public schools and find a lot of value in talking with our educators who do so much for Omaha kids. Today Brooke is sharing her approach to teaching, why she doesn't give homework and how she gives her students all the personal attention they deserve at school. Happy Summer everyone! Visit us on Patreon! Follow us on Social: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

WHAT: The Nebraska Poor People's Campaign holds news conference(s) at the offices of Representative Don Bacon and Representative Adrian Smith to demand that they embrace the Third Reconstruction resolution to end poverty and low wages in this country. Emerging from the pain and organizing power of the 140 million people living in poverty or with low wages in this nation, the congressional resolution for a Third Reconstruction reflects an omnibus vision for a fundamental restructuring of society that lifts from the bottom. The nonpartisan resolution is a response to years of movement building to create the collective resolve necessary to implement real and transformational legislative action. WHO: The Rev. Victoria Parker-Mothershed, Nebraska Poor People's Campaign coordinating committee Theomusicologist, and impacted testifier speaking about the injustice of our medical system. Angela Montalvo, Nebraska Poor People's Campaign coordinating committee tri-chair and impacted testifier speaking about military injustice. The Rev. Lisa Hadler, Nebraska Poor People's Campaign coordinating committee tri-chair offering prayer. More directly impacted people sharing their stories. WHEN: June 7, 2021, 11 a.m. CT/10 a.m. MT, and 2 p.m. CT/1 p.m. MT for the national online program WHERE: Office of Don Bacon, 13906 Gold Circle, Suite 101, Omaha. Office of Adrian Smith, 1811 West Second Street, Suite 275, Grand Island Additional speakers online at www.facebook.com/NebraskaPPC. National program online at www.3rdReconstruction.org at 2 p.m. CT/1 p.m. MT. WHY: Drawing on the transformational history of the First Reconstruction following the Civil War and the Second Reconstruction of the civil rights struggles of the 20th century, the Third Reconstruction is a revival of our constitutional commitment to establish justice, provide for the general welfare, end decades of austerity, and recognize that policies that center the 140 million are also good economic policies that can heal and transform the nation. This resolution recognizes that in order to build a true Third Reconstruction we must simultaneously deal with the interlocking injustices of systemic racism, poverty, ecological devastation and the denial of health care, militarism and the distorted moral narrative of religious nationalism that blames the poor instead of the systems that cause poverty. We are building to June 21, when we will hold a National Poor People's and Low-Wage Workers Assembly, which will be held online and at a socially distanced rally in Raleigh. The Poor People's Campaign then launches a one-year campaign toward a Moral March on Washington and Poor People's & Low-Wage Workers Assembly on June 18, 2022, in Washington, D.C. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Today we have another round table discussion with Shawntal Mallory, Candi Jones and Jay Warren-Teamer. You might remember these lovely ladies from a few months back when we discussed ways to improve relations between black and white women. If you missed that episode you will find a link here. Shawntal, Candi and Jay are back to discuss Imposter Syndrome and Intersectional Micro-Aggressions experienced by Black women. First a little business…we want to give a shout out and huge thank you to one of our VIP Patrons Brandi Crockett. Brandi, we really appreciate all your support, thank you for being a patron. If you would like to learn more about becoming a patron, visit our website, Midwestmisfits.com or find us on Patreon. Now on to the show. Thanks for listening to this episode of Midwest misfits. Reminder to check out our past episode on improving relationships between black and white women featuring Shawntal, Candi and jay. You will find us on Patreon at Midwest Misfits and on social at Misfitpod. Thanks and we will see you next week. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Today we are having a captivating conversation with Dr. Ferial Pearson. Born in Nairobi, Kenya, Dr. Pearson identifies as a queer, Muslim, Indian-African immigrant woman, first-generation college graduate, educator, community activist, speaker, writer, and creator of the internationally-recognized Secret Kindness Agents Project. Pearson earned a BA in Language Arts Teaching from Gustavus Adolphus College in 2001, an MS in Urban Instruction from UNO in 2009, and an Ed.D from UNO in 2017. You might recognize her from her famous TikTok videos from her quarantine bread making OR her UNO Tedx talk OR her global Secret Kindness Agents Project. Dr. Ferial Pearson is quite simply a badass. She has had to endure threats, hate speech, entire school districts throwing her under the bus when she had been hired by the districts to speak on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Privilege. https://queeromahaarchives.omeka.net/items/show/3283 https://ferialp.medium.com/deceit-wrapped-in-kindness-3498de1dec55 http://tedxomaha.com/ferial-pearson/ https://www.amazon.com/Ferial-Pearson/e/B00QDRZZMM%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share https://www.3newsnow.com/news/local-news/muslim-professor-felt-her-life-was-in-danger-after-visiting-school-in-the-sand-hills https://seeingrednebraska.com/published/transcript-of-ferial-pearsons-talk-on-power-and-identity-to-platteview-senior-high-school/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Happy election day to all our Omaha listeners. Today colleen and I have a hot topic episode for you.. it's a little Qanon, UAP meets School Choice, worker shortage, and vaccine skeptics…we are chatting about it all. A friendly reminder to check us out on Patreon for bonus content. There is one episode up there now and another dropping today. Visit Patreon.com/midwestmisfits or you will find links in the show notes. Follow us: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits, Today we are talking with Sarah Johnson. Sarah is an independent running for Omaha City Council for District 1. She is an advocate for mobility equity and co-hosts a podcast called Car Free Midwest. She loves Omaha and has been working to it make a better more equitable place for everyone. We encourage you to visit sj4oma.com. Also, Colleen and I have put out our first Patreon Post, so if you want to hear us dish in a bonus episode, visit our Patreon page. Last announcement. There has been a change to the May 1st Red For Ed Nebraska march to Lincoln. Please visit their Facebook page for all the details regarding their upcoming event. Reminder, Omaha’s general election is May 11th. Follow the Misfits: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits we have some big announcements before we start our pod today. One. Colleen and Laura Fisher started a group called Red for Ed Nebraska which you can find on Facebook & join if this an issue you care about.... To draw attention to the anti-public school movement Colleen & Laura are gathering people to do a Mayday March from Omaha to a Lincoln on Mayday May 1, 2021... They need people to join the walk or cheer along in support at the beginning, end, or in between. You can find the Mayday March on Facebook- they created a page for you to find details. Click here to Check out the Misfits on Patreon ‘Trumpiest Trumpster of the bunch’: GOP gets a gut check Blue Hill becomes second Nebraska town to outlaw abortion Follow the Misfits: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Sonita Buddhi is changing the childcare game with a BIG idea! A non-profit child care center with a sliding scale so that when a person makes enough money to not need government subsidy they don't immediately jump to the full price negating any improvement in income and sending them right back to having no extra money. How can anyone get ahead with that model??? Along with tiered cost structures, a food pantry, quarterly family meals, classes for education and self-improvement, child care scholarships will eventually be available for single parents, and then she and Beaufield Berry Fisher run a Food Insecurity page connecting those who can give with those who need. Even if they can collect $10 they pool the money to serve who they can. It's a loving beautiful harmony of the community taking place. It also breaks down the barrier that middle-income families making $40k-50k/ yr are often those who are experiencing food insecurity. Food Insecurity Connection: https://www.facebook.com/groups/497249491675731 Brighten Our Futures: https://www.brightenourfutures.com/ NOISE Article with Susie Buffett: https://www.noiseomaha.com/profiles/2020/12/11/susie-buffett-addresses-the-role-her-sherwood-foundation-and-rh-land-management-play-in-north-omaha-property-acquisitions Other Countries Child Care/ Family Leave Status: https://www.cnn.com/2018/04/25/health/child-care-parenting-explainer-intl https://www.elle.com/culture/career-politics/a27496656/3-women-on-what-its-actually-like-to-have-universal-childcare/ https://www.moms.com/us-daycare-costs-compared-other-countries/ https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/04/these-countries-have-the-most-expensive-childcare/ https://www.unicef.org/press-releases/sweden-norway-iceland-and-estonia-rank-highest-family-friendly-policies-oecd-and-eu https://hechingerreport.org/how-7-countries-are-supporting-child-care-and-families-during-the-pandemic/ Follow the Misfits: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Colleen and Leah hop on for a quick chat about some current events. It's been a while since we have freestyled and a lot has happened in the past couple of months. Colleen opens up about what has been happening inside her bubble and shares the difficult journey she and her family have been navigating this past year. Oh and we also rip on Matt Gaetz because, well, he deserves it. Join us, won't you? Follow Us: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Back at it with part two of our conversation on the FIVE giant factors in everyone's health and welfare (Social Determinants) chat. Amanda discusses the marriage equality heart to heart she had with one of her dear friends, which is literally why we do this podcast. Hopefully, if you don't have someone in your life who will give you these first-hand perspectives, we bring them to your ears. We talk about living with disability, reaching marginalized communities, and the paradox of philanthropy. Philanthropy that is religious-based is shunning to entire communities. Those who shun LGBTQIA+ are missing out on brilliant minds and opportunities because no one is going to apply for jobs where they are openly and actively discriminated against unless they are desperate. Environmental racism is rampant in Omaha particularly in the realm of lead poisoning that continues to plague our neighborhoods and a disproportionate amount of marginalized folks. Here are links to articles on lead pollution and environmental racism: https://northomahahistory.com/2016/04/18/a-history-of-lead-poisoning-in-north-omaha/ https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/27-children/lead/131-your-guide-to-the-omaha-lead-superfund-site https://www.ketv.com/article/lead-plant-poisoned-omahas-soil-epa-concerned-cleanup-efforts-will-hold/29779146 Omaha is Super Charitable BUT It Comes with Purse Strings Attached to People and What THEY Want: https://www.omahachamber.org/wedontcoast/we-live/philanthropic/ https://omahafoundation.org/news/omaha-donors-among-most-generous-in-the-nation/ Philadelphia's Lead and Water Problems: https://www.phillymag.com/citified/2016/02/21/philadelphia-lead-poisoning/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Midwest Misfit Listeners! Today Naomi Hattaway who is currently running for Omaha City Council is Co- Hosting with Colleen! Naomi is an all around awesome human and today we are talking with two other special people: Amanda and Kiley Petersmith. Amanda is a seasoned Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at Boystown Pediatrics and Kiley is a nurse currently working on her doctorate and is the Director of Community Engagement at Methodist College, currently leading the way to get invisible homeless populations vaccinated against Covid. She also leads the mobile lead screening and diabetic clinic that serves marginalized communities. Today we are talking about Social Determinants of Health which is an obnoxious name that nobody readily understands its meaning. It is looking at the societal environments and communities that determine the health, wellness, risk of disease and injury based on the environments humans are exposed to and are not based on individual determinants like genetics and behavior of a person. It is looking at the environment at which one works, lives, and plays in and how that factors into the health of people within those environments. Where one is born, raised, works, lives, and plays exposes them to toxins like lead or unsanitary and unsafe conditions outside of themselves. The cost of ignoring these crucial factors is both fiscally enormous and morally corrupt. We need the general public and legislators to understand all the ways in which we can improve the health and well being of our individuals, communities, and society. You can read about Kiley's awesome work vaccinating marginalized communities here: https://www.wowt.com/2021/02/24/methodist-oha-dchd-team-up-to-vaccinate-invisible-populations/ You can support and learn more about Naomi Hattaway here: https://www.naomiforcitycouncil.com/ https://twitter.com/NaomiHattaway?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor https://www.linkedin.com/in/naomihattaway Learn about Amanda Petersmith here: https://www.boystownpediatrics.org/physicians/amanda-petersmith https://www.happylittletreephotography.com/petersmithfamily --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Today we bring you another episode of the Good Life if you can keep it with hosts Erica Schauer and Wes Dodge. In this episode, Wes and Erica have a conversation with Nathan Leach regarding Non-partisan Nebraska, an organization that attempts to take the party toxicity out of the state legislature. Nathan Erica and Wes also discuss the general dysfunction of the legislature and how we can attempt to change it. You can find Nonpartisan Nebraska at https://www.facebook.com/NonPartisanNebraska/ This is the last episode you will hear on the Misfits feed so we really encourage you to subscribe to The Good Life, If You Can Keep It on Apple, Spotify and wherever you like to listen. Check out our show notes for links. Subscribe to The Good Life: Apple | Spotify | Google | Breaker | Pocket Casts | Radio Public | Anchor --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits! Today we are talking with Sylvia Stone. Sylvia is a 24-year-old car lover, videographer, and breast cancer survivor. When she is not trying to change the world teaching one self-exam at a time, you can find her snuggling her cats, Pickle and Pumpkin, or playing animal crossing with her husband. Today she is telling us all about her cancer journey and if it is one thing she has learned it is that no one is too young for breast cancer. She is working toward changing the world through genetic screenings and monthly self-exams. Here is Sylvia’s story. Thanks for listening to this episode of Midwest misfits. For more on some of the organizations mentioned today check out these links below: For The Breast of Us Livestrong.org American Cancer Society Follow the Misfits: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits, Today we are talking with Graham Christensen founder and president of GC Resolve, a communication and consulting company designed to increase education and mobilization of the general public in order to build regenerative and resilient communities. Currently, GC Resolve is raising awareness about Nebraska’s rising water quality issues, and educating and advocating for a change in the food production system to “regenerative” farming and ranching principles. Along with these efforts, Graham is also a Co-founder of RegeNErate Nebraska a network of farmers and ranchers, tribes, urban farmers, supporting businesses, organizations, food consumers, and communities who are committed to a shift away from extractive industrial food production in favor of an ethical and regenerative food system. Whether you live in the city or the country, we are all impacted by current and past agricultural practices and with climate change at the forefront of many of our minds, RegeNErate is working hard to promote and educate people on sustainable farming practices. Check out RegeNErate Nebraska at regeneratenebraska.com and follow them on social media @regenerate_nebraska and on Facebook at RegeNErateNebraska OPPD Solar Project Sign up for the Midwest Misfit Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/gXFo1b Follow the Misfits: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits! Today we are talking to two amazing and activated women. Denise Blaya Powell and Leanne Prewitt are the co-founders of Women Who Run Nebraska. If You don’t already know, Women Who Run is a state membership Political Action Committee (PAC) that supports and promotes progressive women running for office in Nebraska. They are the only PAC in the Midwest with this mission. It should be mentioned that they didn’t start out as a PAC and that wasn’t really in their plan, but as their efforts to get more women in office grew they realized that it was inevitable. Women Who Run NE Follow Women Who Run on social: Facebook | Instagram Follow the Misfits: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

"The Good Life... If You Can Keep It" Series: Interview with Hillari Lombard. This is Episode 2 with Wes Dodge & Erica Shauer having a conversation with Hillari Lombard who started a moderate party podcast from her Sacramento, CA home. The trio dive into pro-democracy movements like Ranked Choice Voting (RCV), gerrymandering, and how to make our political system less polarizing because most people fall in the middle, so politics and our representatives should look like us! Hillari saw a need to fill a space talking from the middle because she found herself getting pulled into the polarization because the most vocal and loud are the fringe sides of politics. Where is the person just standing up for the middle people? Might it be that it doesn't get clicks OR sell as a story? Well maybe we shouldn't be legislating for the good of others for clickbait and headlines? Most of us are far more moderate and alike than different. We have all fallen for the propaganda in some form. Those topics and more on this weeks episode. You won't want to miss Wes & Erica's 'Petals & Pricks'. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits, this is our book club episode and so we are bringing you the audio version of our recent digital event featuring Omaha native, Lacey Lamar. Lacey is the co-author of the book “You’ll Never Believe What Happened to Lacey”. Her book written alongside her sister Amber Ruffin catalogs the many disturbing and ridiculously heinous racists experiences that Lacey has endured while growing up in OMAHA. So if you haven’t picked up the book already, we suggest you do and listen through this episode moderated and hosted by Beaufield Berry Fisher of Culture Werks Media and True Blue Progressive Women in Omaha and Portia Burch also of True Blue Omaha…and also a special thank you to Lacey Lamar for kindly giving us her time on a precious Saturday evening. Buy on Amazon: You'll Never Believe What Happened to Lacey Follow Us: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits, We are back with part two of our chat with Nebraska State Senator Brett Lindstrom. Today we are diving right in with a discussion on Abortion Rights and Healthcare. Thanks for listening. Once again…thanks for hanging out with us today! We really hope you enjoyed this episode of Midwest Misfits. Visit VoteLindstrom.com for more information about Senator Lindstrom and to connect with him via email or social media. You can connect with us anytime by visiting MidwestMisfits.com or following us on social @MisfitPod. Thanks and we will see you next week. Follow Us: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Today we have a conversation with State Senator Brett Lindstrom who represents Omaha’s 18th District. Full disclosure Colleen has known Brett since High School and I have known him since college. We were glad he was willing to step into the wolf's den and chat with us on some issues. It is always good to see where the opposition is. We should also note that Brett is currently considering a run for Nebraska Governor in 2022. Throughout this episode, you will hear Colleen interject some thoughts that in hindsight we wish we would have mentioned, but failed to at the moment. Also, we had some audio issues so please forgive us for the low volume. Ok now on to the episode. Thanks for checking out this episode. Stay tuned for part 2 coming out on Friday. In that episode we talk about Abortion and healthcare…you won’t want to miss it. For more on Brett, you can check out his website at VoteLindstrom.com. Follow Us: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

An ALL womens city council. That is the DREAM! If that makes you uncomfortable, maybe check that because we have had a bajillion and one all men councils since the beginning of time SO yes, let's make this historic. Let's be able to have comparison and study the difference we would experience with an all female city council. District 5 Kate Gotsdiner would be a fresh, but wildly experienced and knowledgeable addition. She brings years of legislative experience and working within the systems. She is a self identified Policy Nerd. She loves to dive into budgets and the nitty gritty of legislation and policy. She is also studying it for her Graduate Studies. Check out all the female candidates on Women Who Run! https://www.womenwhorunne.org/candidates https://kategotsdinerforomaha.com/ Here is the information on Kate's current seat occupant who has been enmeshed in controversy: https://www.3newsnow.com/news/local-news/council-member-elect-colleen-brennan-says-her-writing-is-intended-to-start-a-conversation Lucia Pedroza Estrada: https://www.civicnebraska.org/build-up-omaha-award-spotlightlucia-pedroza/ Ja Keen Fox: https://www.culxr.house/organize -- Jerk Move Mayor Mean Jean: https://www.ketv.com/article/stothert-asks-for-activist-to-resign-from-lgbtq-advisory-board-after-comments-about-officers-killed/33340108 --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Welcome to the show! Today’s guest is Dawuane Lamont Hayes, founder of NOISE which stands for North Omaha Information Support Everyone. Noise is a community-led news organization developed to address the information gap within North Omaha. As a multimedia platform, NOISE prioritizes web and social media while supporting coverage with radio, print, SMS alerts, and events to make news more accessible. Not Only is Dawaune the founder and president of NOISE, but he is also a Mayoral Candidate for the City of Omaha who is looking to bring transparency and creativity to the office. Here is our chat with Dawuane. Thanks for listening to this episode of Midwest Misfits. Make sure and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. We have a lot of really good stuff in the hopper. Also, sign up for our Free live event featuring Lacey Lamar…if you haven’t picked up the book there is still time to get your read on and join us on February 27thfor our live ZOOM. Registration link is available on our website, MidwestMisfits.com or check out our show notes. If you are enjoying our podcast and want to show your support you can leave us a 5-star review or donate via our website. Follow us: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits, Today we have another special treat for you. We are going to share the first episode of another Nebraska podcast called “The Good Life, If You Can Keep it” a podcast created by Erica Schauer of Lincoln, NE and Wes Dodge of Omaha. They plan to discuss different democracy reform measures, interview guests from across the political spectrum and try to educate their listeners about civic engagement. This first episode is about Ranked Choice Voting and Senator McCollisters bill currently in the legislature. Now for The Good Life, If You Can keep it. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits, today we have a special treat. A discussion with Beaufield Berry-Fisher and Katherine MacHolmes on their new podcast called Say Her Name. This podcast’s aim is to break down some of the vilest and controversial state-sanctioned killings of Black women in recent history. Each episode will take us behind the scenes of each murder, discuss the case, the players, social blowback, final outcomes and what you can do next. The episodes are also paired with a second show where host, Beaufield Berry, sits down with a Black woman working in liberation today in a segment called Say HER name, too. So now, a discussion with Beau Field Berry Fisher and Katherin MacHolmes, stay tuned for an excerpt from their new podcast, available NOW on Apple iTunes, Spotify, Google and wherever you like to listen. Listen now on Anchor Follow @CultureWerks_Media on Instagram and get to know the show's creators. Register for our LIVE event featuring Lacey Lamar here. Follow the Misfits: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support

Hey Misfits, welcome to the show. In today’s episode, we are talking with Shelley the creator of the amazing TikTok account TheDeathscorts. What is a Deathscort you might ask? Well, they are a group of women who volunteer their time to walk or escort other women from their car to the entrance of their care clinic. These women are visiting the clinic in need of an abortion and as you can imagine there are all kinds of people trying to stop them. It's not a long walk from the car to the door, but TheDeathscorts are there to make sure the women are comforted and safely escorted to the clinic to receive the healthcare they need. Shelley is the captain of the escort group who volunteers at CARE Reproductive Health in Bellevue Nebraska and this is her story. Don't forget to register for our LIVE BookClub event featuring Lacey Lamar. Register here! Follow Us: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/midwest-misfits/support