Politics is often seen as a game for old, rich White men, and in a lot of ways, it is. BUT, if you really knew how deeply entrenched the political game is to your everyday life, and had a better understanding of what organizers do every single day to make your life better, maybe you’d invest a little more time? Politics As Usual is a podcast brought to you by Relentless Love, and every episode, we tell real stories from real organizers involved in real politics – whether at the local, state or national level. From the Democratic Party’s intentional sidelining of qualified Black political operatives, to understanding how to combat the overabundance of White men in political punditry, we dive deep into the everyday life of organizers – you know, the folks truly on the front lines of democracy.
Before the world went completely to hell, the all-world Carys Behnke sat down with us to discuss her organizing journey, her experience working political campaigns, what it means to be aligned with nature, and much more! So many people played a monumental role in the outcome of this election. Carys is one of them. Thank her.
There are lots of wonderful things you can say about Oliver Sandreuter. He's an educator, world traveler, and amazing organizer, and the vast depth of knowledge he has comes from a host of life experiences. Oliver sat down with us to talk about his political organizing in Georgia, his travels both domestic and abroad, and what's next on his organizing journey. Show Links and References Oliver's new book is available for purchase hereDemocrats loss the South because of support for Civil Rights, but not as late as you think That said, ‘64 was the last straw for most segregationists, and they found a champion 16 years later in Ronnie ReaganOliver makes a tremendous case for a gap year, but if you don't believe him, find more evidence here, here and here
A fearless activist, organizer and marketing guru, Cat Allen is no stranger to doing the grunt part of movement work. She joins us this week to talk about her love of Memphis, educating men on how to show up for women, and offer keen analysis and action items on moving the progressive agenda forward in the Deep South.Show ReferencesIda B. Wells Heroic Fight Against Lynching in MemphisThe People's Grocery Lynching in MemphisMemphis Sanitation Workers StrikeWhy Dr. King went to Memphis, and why nothing much has changedThe Lorraine Motel and Martin Luther King, Jr.Tennessee looks to effectively ban abortion
Movement work isn't cyclical. It never ends. And few people embody the confidence, expertise and perseverance needed to truly change communities more than Shelley Jackson, an organizer, artist, activist and dancer from Phoenix. She joins us to talk about the ills of electoral politics, the importance of creative expression in public education, and offers life advice to Black girls and women everywhere.