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Our America with Julián Castro

Our America with Julián Castro

66 episodes — Page 1 of 2

Our America Mixtape: A Special Treat from Hark

With Season 2 coming to an end, Julián recalls some of his favorite Our America moments in this special episode put together by a new podcast app called Hark Audio. Julián will walk you through some of his favorite moments from conversations with top thinkers in politics and media, including MSNBC host Mehdi Hasan, Texas gubernatorial candidate Beto O’Rourke, and famed newsman Dan Rather. If you haven’t yet binge listened to every episode of Our America, here’s a little invitation of some great places to start. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jun 1, 202237 min

Remembering Uvalde & Hoping for Change

Julián addresses the devastating news out of Uvalde, Texas, where a young man on Tuesday gunned down at least 19 elementary school students and two adults. He and Sawyer then talk about this week’s state primaries, the latest on Title 42, and President Biden’s most-recent approval numbers ahead of the midterms. They’re later joined by Director Gustavo Velasquez of the California Department of Housing and Community Development to talk about the innovative ways in which his agency is tackling the state’s housing crisis. Follow Mr. Velasquez’s work at the California Department of Housing and Community Development online at @California_HCD. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. This episode of ‘Our America’ is brought to you by the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, which is dedicated to building a more inclusive, just, and healthy future for everyone. The series is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 25, 20221h 5m

The Swift Evolution of Home Ownership

Julián and Sawyer chat with Ruby Bolaria Shifrin, the head of the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative’s housing affordability project, about the realities of modern-day home ownership and the lessons learned from the pandemic. Later they’re joined by Laurie Goodman of the Urban Institute to look into some of the statistics guiding housing experts. Follow Laurie’s work at the Urban Institute online at @urbaninstitute or @MortgageLaurie. Ruby of @ChanZuckerberg can be found at @Ruby_Bee. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. This episode of ‘Our America’ is brought to you by the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, which is dedicated to building a more inclusive, just, and healthy future for everyone. The series is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 18, 202245 min

Shifting Political Power Through Organizing

Julián and Sawyer ask Marguerite Casey Foundation President Dr. Carmen Rojas about her thoughts on how the leaked Supreme Court decision seemingly invalidating abortion rights will impact the state of organizing in the months to come. They also welcome MCF Freedom Scholar Dr. Alisa Bierria of UCLA’s Gender Studies Program to talk about the potential for mass criminalization following the end of Roe. Follow Dr. Rojas online at @crojasphd and the Marguerite Casey Foundation at @caseygrants. Find out more about Dr. Alisa’s work here. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 11, 202246 min

The End of Roe (with Lauren Rankin)

Julián and Sawyer break down the devastating news out of DC in which a leaked draft opinion shows the Supreme Court’s decision to officially overturn abortion rights nationwide. They welcome reproductive rights activist and author Lauren Rankin to talk about the prospective end of Roe v. Wade and how it may set the scene for both a national abortion ban and other protection removals. Follow Lauren online at @laurenarankin. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 4, 202239 min

Championing Democracy from the Hood to the Holler (with Charles Booker)

Julián and guest co-host Maya Rupert speculate on Twitter’s future now that Elon Musk has officially bought the social media giant. They also dive into Trump’s new legal troubles and President Biden’s commitment to financially assist Ukraine in its ongoing fight against Russia. The two then welcome US senatorial candidate Charles Booker of Kentucky to talk about his exciting campaign and his newly-released memoir: From the Hood to the Holler. Follow Charles online at @Booker4KY and Maya at @MayaRupert. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 27, 202251 min

Can Biden Rebound?

Julián and Sawyer talk about the shocking, but unsurprising, news of the nearly dozen mass shootings that took place nationwide over the weekend and how it's an indication of continued inaction by our leaders on proper gun reform. They also unpack new polling numbers showing that only a third of respondents approve of President Biden’s performance. The two then tackle news of Elon Musk’s proposed acquisition of Twitter and the possible demise of InfoWars. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 20, 202243 min

Suiting Up to Protect LGBTQ Rights (with Charlotte Clymer)

Julián and Sawyer talk about a shocking abortion case in Texas that plays into the GOP’s overall goal of ending reproductive rights in America. The two also discuss the empowering news of Amazon employees unionizing for the first time ever and the reverberations that’s caused for workers nationwide. Later they welcome trans activist and speaker Charlotte Clymer to talk about the onslaught of anti-LGBTQ legislation following the passage of Florida’s ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bil. Follow Charlotte online at @cmclymer. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 13, 202247 min

What’s Merrick Garland Waiting For? (with Elie Mystal)

Julián and Sawyer discuss the Biden administration’s long-awaited removal of Trump’s Title 42 policy that paralyzed the asylum-seeking process at the height of COVID. They then unpack the latest from the Jan. 6th House committee’s investigation into Trump’s alleged involvement in the Capitol insurrection. Later the two welcome MSNBC contributor and The Nation’s justice correspondent Elie Mystal to talk about his new book and to offer his thoughts on Attorney General Merrick Garland’s performance. Follow Elie online at @ElieNYC. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 6, 202250 min

Everything is Chaos from Will Smith to SCOTUS (with Mark Joseph Stern)

Sawyer and guest co-host Maya Rupert unpack the shocking Oscars moment that saw Best Actor winner Will Smith physically assault comedian Chris Rock over an insensitive joke. They then focus on the GOP’s treatment of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson at her Supreme Court nomination hearing as well as the deafening calls for Justice Clarence Thomas’s resignation over his wife’s alleged role on Jan. 6th. Slate senior writer and courts expert Mark Joseph Stern joins to provide additional thoughts on the SCOTUS madness. Follow Mark online at @mjs_DC. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 30, 202253 min

Ketanji Brown Jackson Makes History

Julián and Sawyer compare the first days of Ketanji Brown Jackson’s historic Supreme Court nomination hearing to those of Trump’s candidates, including Brett Kavanaugh. They then talk about the latest out of Ukraine amidst the ongoing Russian assault. Later they welcome Marguerite Casey Foundation CEO Dr. Carmen Rojas to talk about voting rights, police reform, and the power of Women’s History Month. Follow Dr. Rojas online at @crojasphd and the Marguerite Casey Foundation at @caseygrants. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 23, 202249 min

Midterm Messaging (with Jason Kander)

Julián and Sawyer talk about the GOP’s misleading rhetoric regarding Russian sanctions and their effects on American gas prices, while also examining the Democratic Party’s messaging choices ahead of the 2022 midterms. They then welcome Majority 54 podcaster Jason Kander to chat about his advocacy work, especially when it comes to bipartisanship in a post-Trump society. Follow Jason online at @JasonKander. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 16, 202252 min

Ukraine Fights Back (with Michael McFaul)

Julián and Sawyer condemn the anti-LGBTQ policies constructed by right-wing conservatives in both Texas and Florida, including the so-called ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill. They also welcome Michael McFaul, Stanford University professor and former US ambassador to Russia, to get an unvarnished take on the “young war” waging in Ukraine and to learn how its courageous residents are faring amidst the chaos. Follow Prof. McFaul online at @McFaul. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 9, 202249 min

SOTU & TX Election Results (with Rep. Joaquin Castro)

Julián and Sawyer welcome US Rep. Joaquin Castro to talk about President Biden’s State of the Union address, the results of the Texas primary elections, and Gov. Greg Abbott’s assault on transgender children and their families. They also comment on Biden’s historic nomination of federal judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the US Supreme Court and the uphill battle she may face on Capitol Hill. Follow Congressman Castro online at @JoaquinCastroTX. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 3, 202242 min

Russia’s War Games

Julián and Sawyer give an update on the Russian conflict against Ukraine while also tackling domestic issues like President Biden’s most-recent polling numbers and the state of the Democratic Party, especially before next week’s Texas primaries. They also chat with housing advocate and All Home founder Tomiquia Moss about her organization’s fight to curb California’s homelessness problem. Follow Tomiquia’s organization online at @allhomeca and at allhomeca.org. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. This episode of ‘Our America’ is brought to you by the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, which is dedicated to building a more inclusive, just, and healthy future for everyone. The series is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 23, 202253 min

Putin on the Blitz? (with Nayyera Haq)

Julián and Sawyer chat about mask mandate removals in cities and states nationwide, the Canadian trucker protest energizing North American right-wingers, and Texas early voting amidst new election restrictions. They also welcome Black News Channel host and former Obama State Department advisor Nayyera Haq to address the growing tension between Russia and Ukraine that’s worrying international diplomats. Follow Nayyera online at @nayyeroar. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 16, 202255 min

A Real, Legitimate Political Discourse (with Jessica Cisneros)

Julián and Sawyer deride Republicans for trying to label the Capitol insurrection as “legitimate political discourse.” They also talk about the aftermath of yet another young Black American’s death at the hands of Minneapolis police. Later the two chat with Texas congressional candidate Jessica Cisneros about her much-discussed primary race against moderate Democrat Henry Cuellar. Follow Jessica and her campaign online at JCisnerosTX and jessicacisnerosforcongress.com Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 9, 202253 min

Not Going Quietly (with Ady Barkan)

Julián and Sawyer marvel at Trump’s public admission of trying to use Mike Pence to help overturn the 2020 election results and comment extensively on President Biden’s quest to place a Black female judge on the US Supreme Court. They also sit down with healthcare advocate and ALS patient Ady Barkan to talk about the nation’s troubled healthcare system and his new documentary ‘Not Going Quietly.’ Follow Ady online at @AdyBarkan. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 2, 202251 min

Trump’s Legal Woes & America’s Childcare Crisis (with Gloria Riviera)

Julián and Sawyer dig deep into Trump’s troubles, ranging from the January 6th Committee’s latest findings and New York State’s continued investigation into his seemingly shady business practices. The two also welcome ‘No One is Coming to Save Us’ host Gloria Riviera to talk about the difficulties of childcare during the recent omicron surge. Follow Gloria online at @griviera. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 26, 202251 min

Who Will Primary Voting Rights Holdout Sinema? (with Mehdi Hasan)

Julián and Sawyer theorize about Sen. Kyrsten Sinema’s political future following her latest efforts to sideswipe President Biden’s overall agenda, including historic voting rights legislation. They also welcome MSNBC and Peacock host Mehdi Hasan to break down Biden’s first full year in office and the media’s responsibility ahead of the midterms. Follow Mehdi online at @mehdirhasan. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 19, 202254 min

Biden Drops the F-Bomb: Filibuster (with Beto O’Rourke)

Julián and Sawyer talk about President Biden’s decidedly pointed responses to the Capitol riots anniversary, filibuster reform and voting rights. They also deride Sen. Ted Cruz for apologizing to FOX News host Tucker Carlson after he initially condemned the insurrection. The two then chat with friend Beto O’Rourke about his Texas gubernatorial bid and his continued outreach to rural communities as he seeks to oust incumbent Greg Abbott from office. Follow Beto online at @BetoORourke. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 12, 202252 min

The Capitol Coup, One Year Later

Julián and Sawyer start the new year off by revisiting some of the headlines you may have missed during the holidays, including Sen. Joe Manchin seemingly derailing President Biden’s Build Back Better agenda. They also commemorate the one year anniversary of the January 6th Capitol Riots and discuss its overall impact on our democracy. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 5, 202251 min

Revisiting: Journalists Need To Do Their Damn Jobs (with Dan Rather)

Storied news anchor and journalist Dan Rather has reported on some of the world’s most important events – from Georgia’s church pews at the height of the civil rights movement, to deadly student protests in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, to the collapse of the Twin Towers on 9/11. Dan’s been at the epicenter of American media since the ‘60s, and now, he’s found himself a dedicated following on social media as well. He joined us earlier this year to talk free speech, disinformation, and what a 70-year career in journalism has taught him. Resources from the episode: Check out Dan’s media production company, News & Guts Scroll through years of Dan anchoring the news courtesy of UT Austin’s Briscoe Center Read Dan’s newest book, What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism, and its graphic novel equivalent Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 29, 202137 min

Revisiting: Why I'm F*cking Mad (with Jonathan Van Ness)

E

With the launch of the hit Netflix show, “Queer Eye,” Jonathan Van Ness became a personal grooming guru for unkempt Americans across the country. But JVN has engaged audiences in so much more than better hygiene practices – a year after the show launched, JVN wrote a memoir that helped to demystify living with HIV and what “undetectable equals untransmittable” (or U=U) actually means. JVN joined us earlier this year to talk about living with HIV, overcoming addiction, and the steps that he hopes the Biden/Harris administration will take to overcome the stigma that he and so many other folks, particularly LGBTQ-identifying, face after coming out as HIV-positive. Tune in, henny. Resources from the episode: Tune into JVN’s podcast, Getting Curious Read JVN’s memoir, “Over The Top” Search for your local Planned Parenthood Locate additional HIV testing by zip code Find a PrEP provider by zip code Read up on U=U Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 22, 202132 min

Insurrection, Impeachment and Other Wild 2021 Moments (with Maya Rupert)

Julián and Sawyer welcome their former presidential campaign colleague Maya Rupert to unpack some of the year’s most memorable news stories, from some of the most inspirational (involving women of color at the top of their field) to a few of the wackiest (did JFK Jr. really come back?). Even Q-Anon conspiracy theories can’t keep the team from reflecting on an impactful 2021. Follow Maya online at @MayaRupert. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 15, 202153 min

The Death of Roe and the Rise of Omicron (with Lauren Rankin & Andy Slavitt)

Julián and Sawyer welcome writer and abortion rights activist Lauren Rankin to make sense of the Supreme Court’s latest efforts to potentially invalidate Roe v. Wade. They also chat with ‘In the Bubble’ host Andy Slavitt about the emergence of the omicron COVID variant and his work with the Biden administration earlier this year to help combat the virus. Follow Andy online at @ASlavitt and Lauren at @laurenarankin. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 8, 202151 min

‘Tis the Season for Making Legislative Moves (with Sen. Elizabeth Warren)

Julián and Sawyer are back from the holidays and back to the DC chatter with special guest Sen. Elizabeth Warren, who explicitly outlines the work Congress still has to do before year’s end. Speaking of Congress, Julián and Sawyer criticize Republicans for their continued ambivalence toward racism and bigotry against their own colleagues while simultaneously casting more doubt on the new omicron COVID variant. Follow Sen. Warren online at @ewarren. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 1, 202153 min

Revisiting: A Seat at the Table for Native and Indigenous People

After a year and a half of disproportionately high rates of COVID-19, the major losses within Native and Indigenous communities have underlined just how deep-seated historical discrimination still is – evident in an overwhelming lack of access to water, electricity, and health care services on reservations. In this Season 1 episode, Julián is joined by Áshįįhí Clan member President Jonathan Nez of the Navajo Nation and climate activist and journalist Julian Brave NoiseCat of the Canim Lake Band Tsq'escen to talk about reopening Navajo land this past spring, the Biden/Harris American Rescue Plan’s investment in tribal lands, and what Secretary Deb Haaland’s historic confirmation to the Department of the Interior means for the health and environmental justice of Native and Indigenous communities. Resources from the episode: Follow Julian Brave NoiseCat’s journalism The Indigenous Green New Deal, by the NDN Collective Navajo Nation Department of Health COVID data and resources Mapping Indigenous lands, by Native Land Digital The Navajo Water Project Color of Coronavirus project, by APM Research Lab An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States, by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 24, 202141 min

The Bells & Dog Whistles of GOP Messaging (with Anat Shenker-Osorio)

Julián and Sawyer talk about Julián’s decision to sit out the Texas gubernatorial race, which just welcomed former Congressman Beto O’Rourke this week. They also chat with ‘Words to Win By’ podcast host Anat Shenker-Osorio about her ‘Race-Class Narrative Project’ and the need for Democrats to hone their political messaging against Republican dog-whistling. Follow Anat online at @anatosaurus. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 17, 202153 min

Election Wake-Up Call: Time To Get Sh*t Done (with Rep. Joaquin Castro)

Julián and Sawyer walk through the disappointing Election Night results likely worrying the (slim) Democratic majority and offer answers as to what could’ve happened. They also welcome Julián’s twin brother, US Rep. Joaquin Castro, who provides an inside look as to how Congress was finally able to pass President Biden’s massive infrastructure deal late last week. Follow Congressman Castro online at @JoaquinCastroTX. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 10, 202150 min

Why is Joe Manchin Calling the Shots? (with Dr. Carmen Rojas)

Julián and Sawyer talk about President Biden’s newly-amended framework for his Build Back Better Plan and how voters may react to certain legislative omissions like paid family leave and tuition-free community college. They also welcome Marguerite Casey Foundation CEO Dr. Carmen Rojas to unpack how the bill’s passage will impact the work of non-profit organizations. Follow Carmen online at @crojasphd. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 3, 202148 min

Defending Voting, Protecting Democracy (with Marc Elias)

Julián and Sawyer talk about the ever-evolving nature of President Biden’s two-tiered infrastructure package ahead of a purported final vote and the hotly-contested gubernatorial race down in Virginia set for next week. They also welcome renowned election law attorney Marc Elias to break down gerrymandering efforts in Texas and the continued fight to pass the Freedom to Vote Act. Follow Marc online at @marceelias. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oct 27, 202154 min

Trump’s Immigration Policies in Biden’s White House (with Hamed Aleaziz)

Julián and Sawyer unpack the importance of the Jan. 6 select committee investigating the Capitol insurrection (which Trump is now suing) and analyze new poll numbers that may be enlightening for some Democrats ahead of the midterm elections. They also welcome BuzzFeed News immigration reporter Hamed Aleaziz to break down the current administration’s decision to maintain two widely-criticized Trump-era policies. Follow Hamed online at @Haleaziz. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Feel free to leave us a voicemail at 833-453-6662. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oct 20, 202152 min

The Fight to Build Back Better (with Rep. Ayanna Pressley)

US Rep. Ayanna Pressley joins Secretary Julián Castro and new co-host Sawyer Hackett for our season two premiere to talk about President Biden’s Build Back Better agenda and the power of progressives on the Hill. Julián and Sawyer also discuss the latest judicial back and forth on Texas’s restrictive anti-abortion measure and a new study analyzing voter outreach in the Sun Belt states. And Julián thanks...Elon Musk? Follow Congresswoman Pressley online at @AyannaPressley. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. ‘Our America’ is presented in part by the Marguerite Casey Foundation. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oct 13, 202158 min

Introducing: Our America with Julián Castro - Season 2

trailer

Voting. Abortion. Immigration. Poverty. Federal courts. This season, Julián Castro goes off script with Sawyer Hackett and insiders on the front lines of the biggest political issues influencing Our America. From Lemonada Media. Premieres October 13th. Find Julián online at @JulianCastro and Sawyer at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oct 6, 20211 min

WTF is Happening in TX? (with Cecile Richards)

Just days after the state implemented a draconian anti-abortion measure that effectively invalidates Roe v. Wade, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed voter suppression legislation into law this week. With COVID numbers also spiking there, Julián and his longtime staffer Sawyer Hackett hop on the mic for a special episode to dissect the latest (and not greatest) in Texas politics and welcome reproductive rights activist and fellow Texan, Cecile Richards, to better understand SB8. If you’d like to support efforts to combat SB8 in Texas, visit the following resources: The National Network of Abortion Funds ActBlue Charities Planned Parenthood Find Cecile on Twitter and Instagram at @CecileRichards. Keep up with Julián on Twitter at @JulianCastro and Instagram at @JulianCastroTX. Sawyer can be found on Twitter and Instagram at @SawyerHackett. And stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sep 9, 202158 min

S1 Ep 27Safety Doesn’t Mean More Guns (with John Legend)

Season Finale! We’re ending on a high note with Grammy-award winning musician and social justice advocate, John Legend, who joins us to talk about using his platform to fight for racial equity, and his personal connection to reforming the criminal justice system and upholding the voting rights of formerly incarcerated folks. Keep up with Julián on twitter @JulianCastro and Instagram @JulianCastroTX. Resources from the episode: Learn more about changing the conversation on incarceration through the FreeAmerica initiative. Check out the FreeAmerica + New Profit partnership, Unlocked Futures, that funds social entrepreneurs with a connection to the criminal justice system. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows. To follow along with a transcript and/or take notes for friends and family, go to https://www.lemonadamedia.com/show/our-america shortly after the air date. Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 8, 202130 min

S1 Ep 26The Filibuster’s Racist Roots (with Adam Jentleson)

When you hear the word ‘filibuster,’ you might think of an idealistic Jimmy Stewart delivering an impassioned speech against corruption on the Senate floor in Frank Capra’s Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. But the reality of the filibuster of today – and how we got here – is anything but justice-seeking. Senate insider and author Adam Jentleson walks us through the filibuster’s racist history, its impact on if and how legislation gets passed, and what’s at stake if it isn’t eliminated or reformed, at the very least. Keep up with Julián on twitter @JulianCastro and Instagram @JulianCastroTX. Resources from the episode: Adam Jentleson’s Kill Switch: The Rise of the Modern Senate and the Crippling of American Democracy Learn more about the filibuster through Adam’s appearances on Fresh Air, The Ezra Klein Show, and KALW’s Your Call Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows. To follow along with a transcript and/or take notes for friends and family, go to https://www.lemonadamedia.com/show/our-america shortly after the air date. Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 1, 202144 min

S1 Ep 25A Seat At The Table For Native And Indigenous People

After a year of disproportionately high rates of COVID-19, the major losses within Native and Inidigenous communities have underlined just how deep-seated historical discrimination still is – evident in an overwhelming lack of access to water, electricity, and health care services on reservations. We’re joined by Áshįįhí Clan member President Jonathan Nez of the Navajo Nation and climate activist and journalist Julian Brave NoiseCat of the Canim Lake Band Tsq'escen to talk about reopening Navajo land, the Biden/Harris American Rescue Plan’s investment in tribal lands, and what Secretary Deb Haaland’s historic confirmation to the Department of the Interior means for the health and environmental justice of Native and Indigenous communities. Keep up with Julián on twitter @JulianCastro and Instagram @JulianCastroTX. Resources from the episode: Follow Julian Brave NoiseCat’s journalism The Indigenous Green New Deal, by the NDN Collective Navajo Nation Department of Health COVID data and resources Mapping Indigenous lands, by Native Land Digital The Navajo Water Project Color of Coronavirus project, by APM Research Lab An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States, by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows. To follow along with a transcript and/or take notes for friends and family, go to https://www.lemonadamedia.com/show/our-america shortly after the air date. Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 25, 202140 min

S1 Ep 24A Reckoning in Texas

In February, Texas faced the startling reality of a changing climate with single-digit temperatures that led to widespread power outages, flooded homes and lives lost. But why was Texas hit with one of the worst blackouts in our country’s history? And why was its energy grid unprepared to handle it? This week, senior energy analyst Julie McNamara of the Union of Concerned Scientists helps us answer these questions, and Lori Landry, a longtime friend of Sec. Castro, shares her family’s experience of having to evacuate their impacted North Texas home. Keep up with Julián on twitter @JulianCastro and Instagram @JulianCastroTX. Resources from the episode: Julie on The Takeaway - The American Power System Is Unprepared For Climate Change 6 things to know about supply, demand, and our electricity future - The Union of Concerned Scientists Read Julie's latest blog post on what happened in Texas here Tracking the Texas power outages with PowerOutage.US Power outage terms explained - KUT Mutual aid for people affected by the outages - Vox How to prepare for power outages - CDC Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows. To follow along with a transcript and/or take notes for friends and family, go to https://www.lemonadamedia.com/show/our-america shortly after the air date. Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 18, 202140 min

S1 Ep 23Who Responds to a Mental Health Crisis? (with Rep Leslie Herod)

Colorado State Representative Leslie Herod saw a gap in mental health services in Denver and decided to do something about it. With the help of a van, a mental health professional, and an EMT, the Support Team Assistance Response (STAR) program was born – and six months in, it has proved effective at fielding mental health calls received by the Denver Police Department. Rep. Herod joins us to talk about STAR’s success, her personal stake in it, and other state-level measures being taken to modernize the current system of policing. Keep up with Julián on twitter @JulianCastro and Instagram @JulianCastroTX. Resources from the episode: Caring for Denver, the foundation helping to fund STAR STAR 6-month evaluation Servicios de la Raza, community services for Denverites SB 217 explained, courtesy of Colorado Public Radio Eugene, Oregon’s CAHOOTS, the program that started it all If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 anytime, or chat with them online. The Crisis Text Line also provides support over text at 741741. For people who identify as LGBTQ, the Trevor Project's Lifeline can be reached at 1-866-488-7386. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows. To follow along with a transcript and/or take notes for friends and family, go to https://www.lemonadamedia.com/show/our-america shortly after the air date. Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 11, 202141 min

S1 Ep 22Curbing Anti-Asian and Pacific Islander Hate (with Cynthia Choi)

Since the start of the COVID-19 lockdown in the US, over 3,000 attacks on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) have been reported – with many targeting the Bay Area’s elderly population. Misinformation, fear, and politicians’ racist rhetoric tied to COVID’s origins in China have only fueled the sometimes fatal violence against AAPI communities across the country. Cynthia Choi of Stop AAPI Hate and Chinese For Affirmative Action joins us to talk about scapegoating, the data collected on these verbal and physical attacks, and the pressing need for community-led, intersectional public safety initiatives. Keep up with Julián on twitter @JulianCastro and Instagram @JulianCastroTX. Resources from the episode: Keep up with Chinese For Affirmative Action and Stop AAPI Hate action items and data collection. Report an incident to Stop AAPI Hate. February press release on hate crimes against AAPI elderly. August report on AAPI attacks nationwide. AAPI hate crime resources courtesy of National Asian Pacific American Bar Association. Volunteer with the Oakland Chinatown Coalition to assist elderly community members with daily activities. Request a chaperone or volunteer to chaperone with Compassion In Oakland. Support the GoFundMe to cover funeral costs for 84-year-old Vicha Ratanapakdee who died in late January after a brutal beating. Contribute to the Asian Pacific Fund’s Solidarity Fund to address anti-Asian sentiment in the Bay Area. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows. To follow along with a transcript and/or take notes for friends and family, go to https://www.lemonadamedia.com/show/our-america shortly after the air date. Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 4, 202136 min

S1 Ep 21Moms Demand Action

After the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012, many Americans felt a call to action to reform our country’s gun laws. One of these people was Shannon Watts, a mother of five who started a Facebook group that turned into Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America. Two years later, a mom in Texas joined her local chapter of Moms Demand Action after losing her 20-year-old son to gun violence. Calandrian Simpson-Kemp and Shannon Watts join us to speak about turning grief into action and passing common-sense gun legislation in a country that has a gun homicide rate that’s 25x higher than any other high-income country. Keep up with Julián on twitter @JulianCastro and Instagram @JulianCastroTX. Resources from the episode: Follow Moms Demand Action and Shannon Watts on Twitter Get involved in your local Moms Demand Action chapter Resources and research on laws mentioned in this episode: Stand your ground laws Extreme risk, or “red flag,” laws The boyfriend loophole Violence Against Women Act George Floyd Justice and Policing Act Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows. To follow along with a transcript and/or take notes for friends and family, go to https://www.lemonadamedia.com/show/our-america shortly after the air date. Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 25, 202142 min

S1 Ep 20Unions Are Vehicles of Justice (with Mary Kay Henry)

For over 40 years, Mary Kay Henry has fought for the rights of workers with the Service Employees International Union, or SEIU. With the rise of COVID-19 and an increased reliance on essential workers, these rights have too often been disregarded, leaving many without adequate personal protective equipment or access to fair wages and benefits. This week, Mary Kay joins us to talk about unions as a vehicle of justice for a racially diverse workforce that’s representative of our country. Keep up with Julián on twitter @JulianCastro and Instagram @JulianCastroTX. Resources from the episode: SEIU resolution in support of Black Lives Matter National Employment Law Project on raising the minimum wage to $15 NPR on Biden’s COVID-19 relief plan and his Build Back Better economic plan Mobile Workers Alliance Gig Workers Rising Rideshare Drivers United Listen to our episode on immigrant workers benefits, The Luxury of Paid Sick Leave, here Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows. To follow along with a transcript and/or take notes for friends and family, go to https://www.lemonadamedia.com/show/our-america shortly after the air date. Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 18, 202137 min

S1 Ep 19Families Ripped Apart

Los Angeles County is home to the largest foster care system in the country, and it’s run in partnership with the police and local Sheriff’s department. So what happens when a system that’s meant to protect our children intersects with law enforcement and ends up criminalizing them instead? How do we get to the root of the system’s domino effect in Black, Brown and Indigenous communities? This week, we’re joined by two women, La Mikia Castillo and Yahniie Bridges, who share their personal experience with the foster care system and how ending police partnerships can help to reimagine child safety. Keep up with Julián on twitter @JulianCastro and Instagram @JulianCastroTX. Resources from the episode: Read up on the BLMLA #ReimagineChildSafety campaign petition here Follow BLMLA on Twitter Missed our first episode on foster care and transition-age youth? Listen to it here Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows. To follow along with a transcript and/or take notes for friends and family, go to https://www.lemonadamedia.com/show/our-america shortly after the air date. Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 11, 202138 min

S1 Ep 18Journalists Need To Do Their Damn Jobs (with Dan Rather)

Storied news anchor and journalist Dan Rather has reported on some of the world’s most important events – from Georgia’s church pews at the height of the civil rights movement, to deadly student protests in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, to the collapse of the Twin Towers on 9/11. Dan’s been at the epicenter of American media since the ‘60s, and now, at age 89, he’s found himself a dedicated following on social media as well. He joins us to talk free speech, disinformation, and what a 70-year career in journalism has taught him. Keep up with Julián on twitter @JulianCastro and Instagram @JulianCastroTX. Resources from the episode: Check out Dan’s media production company, News & Guts Scroll through years of Dan anchoring the news courtesy of UT Austin’s Briscoe Center Read Dan’s newest book, What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism, and its graphic novel equivalent Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows. To follow along with a transcript and/or take notes for friends and family, go to https://www.lemonadamedia.com/show/our-america shortly after the air date. Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 4, 202137 min

S1 Ep 17Making Mental Health Accessible (with Dan Harris)

Dan Harris knows all about how to cope with everyday stressors and anxiety. In 2004, he was filling in for a news anchor on Good Morning America when he experienced a panic attack on air. He joins us this week to talk about how his televised panic attack led him to embrace meditation, and how this mental health routine developed into the Ten Percent Happier books and podcast. With a year like 2020 behind us, we could all use some tips on how to take a breath and practice mindfulness! Keep up with Julián on twitter @JulianCastro and Instagram @JulianCastroTX. Resources from the episode: Check out the books Dan has written about his journey Tune into his podcast, Ten Percent Happier Read up on meditation research from Harvard’s Lazar Lab and UCLA’s Mindful Awareness Research Center Additional meditation resources: Headspace Calm Mindful Insight Timer Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows. To follow along with a transcript and/or take notes for friends and family, go to https://www.lemonadamedia.com/show/our-america shortly after the air date. Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 28, 202140 min

S1 Ep 16Why I'm F*cking Mad (with Jonathan Van Ness)

With the launch of the hit Netflix show, “Queer Eye,” Jonathan Van Ness became a personal grooming guru for unkempt Americans across the country. But JVN has engaged audiences in so much more than better hygiene practices – a year after the show launched, JVN wrote a memoir that helped to demystify living with HIV and what “undetectable equals untransmittable” (or U=U) actually means. JVN joins us this week to talk about living with HIV, overcoming addiction, and the steps that he hopes the Biden/Harris administration will take to overcome the stigma that he and so many other folks, particularly LGBTQ-identifying, face after coming out as HIV-positive. Tune in, henny. Keep up with Julián on twitter @JulianCastro and Instagram @JulianCastroTX. Resources from the episode: Tune into JVN’s podcast, Getting Curious Read JVN’s memoir, “Over The Top” Search for your local Planned Parenthood Locate additional HIV testing by zip code Find a PrEP provider by zip code Read up on U=U Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows. To follow along with a transcript and/or take notes for friends and family, go to https://www.lemonadamedia.com/show/our-america shortly after the air date. Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 21, 202132 min

S1 Ep 15A Beacon of Hope (with Ayanna Pressley and London Breed)

Although 2020 is behind us, the new year is already off to an unsettling start. On January 6, chaos erupted as a violent mob of Trump loyalists stormed our nation’s Capitol, leaving five people dead. One of this week’s guests, Massachusetts representative Ayanna Pressley, was at the Capitol that day. Fearing for her safety, she reached for the panic button installed in her congressional office only to find it had been torn out. The buttons were installed as a security measure in 2019 after members of the “Squad,” a progressive group of House Democrats, endured racist attacks from President Trump. With the inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris less than a week away, Rep. Pressley and Mayor London Breed of San Francisco join us to talk about the long process of healing and reconstruction necessary for our country. The two influential leaders discuss how to reimagine our criminal legal system and housing affordability, and the importance of building a representative, inclusive economy after a year of reckoning with racial injustice. Follow Mayor Breed and Rep. Pressley on twitter. Keep up with Julián on twitter @JulianCastro and Instagram @JulianCastroTX. Click this link for a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this show and all Lemonada shows. To follow along with a transcript and/or take notes for friends and family, go to https://www.lemonadamedia.com/show/our-america shortly after the air date. Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 14, 202148 min

S1 Ep 14How We Reach the Working Class (with Bernie Sanders)

From his humble beginnings as Mayor of Burlington, Vermont to his seat in the Senate, Demoractic Socialist Bernie Sanders has consistently backed the working class, universal health care and taxing the wealthiest Americans. The Vermont Senator joins us this week to talk about the future of Trumpism, priorities for the new administration, and what this upcoming shift in power could mean for transformative, inclusive change. Our team is taking a break for the next few weeks, but not to worry – we’ll have new episodes ready for you come January. In the meantime, stay safe and happy holidays! Keep up with Julián on twitter @JulianCastro and Instagram @JulianCastroTX. Resources from this episode: Follow Sen. Sanders’ updates on Twitter. Learn more about your local Democratic Socialists chapter here. Support the show by checking out our sponsors You can digitally purchase life insurance from Haven Life Insurance Agency at havenlife.com/ouramerica. Haven Term is a Term Life Insurance Policy (ICC17DTC) issued by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), Springfield, MA 01111 and offered exclusively through Haven Life Insurance Agency, LLC. Policy and rider form numbers and features may vary by state and not be available in all states. Our Agency license number in California is 0K71922 and in Arkansas, 100139527. The Marguerite Casey Foundation, creating greater freedom for changemakers to create a truly representative economy. Learn more at caseygrants.org, and connect with the Foundation on Twitter and Facebook. To follow along with a transcript and/or take notes for friends and family, go to https://www.lemonadamedia.com/show/our-america shortly after the air date. Stay up to date with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @LemonadaMedia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 17, 202038 min