Joining Stacey Abrams is Tik Root, a Senior Staff Writer at Grist and expert on climate change policy. They discuss the dangers posed by Trump’s potential second term, including threats to the Inflation Reduction Act and environmental regulations. Tik emphasizes the important role of citizens in monitoring local environmental safety. They also highlight how to engage in climate activism and take individual actions to combat the fossil fuel agenda, offering a roadmap for community involvement in these critical issues.

Joy Buolamwini, an AI researcher and artist known for her impactful work on algorithmic bias and founder of the Algorithmic Justice League, joins the conversation. They dive deep into the dangers of bias in artificial intelligence, especially in facial recognition technologies. Joy highlights the need for equitable data to combat existing inequalities and discusses actionable steps individuals can take to engage with AI responsibly. They also explore global regulatory approaches and the crucial balance between innovation and privacy.

Stacey speaks to Dr. Céline Gounder, an infectious disease specialist, epidemiologist and editor at large for public health at KFF Health News, about the threats to public health with the incoming Trump Administration. They talk through Trump’s appointees for the nation’s top health and science agencies like RFK Jr., how to bring scientific thinking back to policy making, and how to differentiate between public health and individual healthcare. Then Stacey explains how to make change by “power-mapping” an issue, finding out who is responsible for the problem, who has jurisdiction over it, and who is already thinking and talking about solutions.For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.We want to hear your questions. Send us an email at assemblyrequired@crooked.com or leave us a voicemail at 213-293-9509. You and your question might be featured on the show.Learn & Do More: Check out KFF Health News to get health news and read about health policy research, and sign up for their newsletters at KFF.Org/EmailBegin Power Mapping and researching the issue you care about most. Who is already thinking about this? Who is responsible for addressing it in your state or local government? Let’s get to work!

Stacey welcomes Kate Nazemi, a dynamic parent and co-founder of Advocates for Inclusive Education, and Jon Valant, a K-12 education policy expert from the Brookings Institution. They dive into the risks posed by Project 2025 on public education, discussing potential changes to student rights and funding. The conversation highlights the importance of local engagement, from school board meetings to grassroots activism, as a means to protect education in light of political shifts. Listeners are encouraged to take action and stay informed.

In this engaging discussion, Rachel Sweet, a seasoned campaign manager for Missourians for Constitutional Freedom, shares her expertise in advocating for ballot initiatives, particularly for abortion rights in Missouri. She highlights how grassroots efforts can empower voters in challenging political environments. Topics include building coalitions, effective messaging, and the importance of compassion in activism. Sweet emphasizes that even in conservative states, ballot initiatives can drive significant change and protect civil rights.

In this engaging discussion, renowned chef and activist Tom Colicchio tackles the alarming food insecurity crisis in the U.S. He shares innovative solutions for addressing food deserts and improving school nutrition policies. Colicchio also reflects on his advocacy journey, emphasizing the need for systemic change and bipartisan support in food legislation. Listeners will gain insight into the cultural significance of food and the importance of community involvement in combating hunger, all while navigating the complexities of public health under shifting political tides.

Stacey speaks with historian Heather Cox Richardson to see what history can teach us about moving forward after Trump’s reelection. They discuss strategies for countering disinformation, how Democratic leaders are preparing to use states’ rights to their advantage to challenge Trump’s federal overreach, and how the era following William McKinley’s presidency can be a guide for progressives. Then, Stacey answers questions from the audience on how to get involved in politics, and how to respond to community in this post-election environment. For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.We want to hear your questions. Send us an email at assemblyrequired@crooked.com or leave us a voicemail at 213-293-9509. You and your question might be featured on the show.Learn & Do More: Read Heather Cox Richardson’s nightly newsletter, “Letters from an American”, or her book, “Democracy Awakening: Notes on the State of America”.Build community and find ways to help locally at Unitedway.org

In this engaging discussion, Rhiannon Giddens, a Grammy and Pulitzer-winning musician, explores the powerful bond between music and social change. She tackles the industry's tendency to categorize genres, revealing the rich, multicultural history of the banjo. Giddens highlights the role of music as both a tool for protest and a means of storytelling. She reflects on personal experiences within the industry, and emphasizes the importance of women of color in influencing cultural narratives. Get ready to be inspired by the transformative power of art!

Stacey talks with meteorologist and veteran hurricane expert, John Morales, who describes how growing up in Puerto Rico led him to his career and how important it is to talk about extreme weather effects. He explains the science of why storms are getting stronger, heatwaves are getting hotter, and droughts are becoming more frequent. Plus they discuss how your vote can help push policy makers to mitigate climate change and the most impactful actions we need to take to help our communities. For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.We want to hear your questions. Send us an email at assemblyrequired@crooked.com or leave us a voicemail at 213-293-9509. You and your question might be featured on the show.Learn & Do More: Visit the Center for Climate and Energy SolutionsParticipate in the support group Extreme Weather SurvivorsLocate your mutual aid organization at Mutual Aid HubBe vigilant about disinformation and listen to our episode “Deepfakes, Lies, and How to Fight Disinformation”

Giving birth in the United States can be dangerous – but it doesn’t have to be. Stacey talks to Representative Jennifer McClellan of Virginia about the disparities in maternal health outcomes in the U.S. and policies to expand access to reproductive healthcare and affordable childcare. Then, Stacey welcomes ProPublica reporter Kavitha Surana to discuss her story on the deadly impact new state abortion bans are already having on pregnant people – and the importance of sharing these stories. We want to hear your questions. Send us an email at assemblyrequired@crooked.com or leave us a voicemail at 213-293-9509. You and your question might be featured on the show.For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.Learn More: Abortion Bans Have Delayed Emergency Medical Care. In Georgia, Experts Say This Mother’s Death Was Preventable (ProPublica)The19thNews.OrgThe Only Doctor (PBS)Black Maternal Health CaucusThe Momnibus