The Home Front

Today, Reed Galen and David Troy discuss the current state of democracy in America and globally, emphasizing the need for a broader definition of democracy beyond just elections. They explore the challenges posed by capitalism, the importance of regulatory guardrails, and the impact of monopolies and network effects in the tech industry. The discussion also highlights the cultural differences in regulatory approaches between the U.S. and Europe, and the necessity for imaginative leadership to navigate the future of American democracy and the Constitution. Find Dave at America 2.0. Follow Reed on Substack. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Summary Today, host Reed Galen speaks with misinformation expert Nina Jankowicz about the current political landscape in the U.S., focusing on the rise of managed autocracy, the role of controlled opposition, and the challenges facing democracy. They explore the impact of online harassment, particularly on women, and draw parallels with global autocracies. Nina emphasizes the importance of active information consumption and finding joy amidst the chaos of the political climate. Follow Nina: https://bsky.app/profile/ninajankowicz.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninajankowicz/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wiczipedia https://www.threads.com/@wiczipedia https://wiczipedia.substack.com/ https://americansunlight.substack.com/ https://www.instagram.com/wiczipedia/ Follow Reed on Substack: https://reedgalen.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, host Reed Galen speaks with Clara Mattei, a professor of economics at the University of Tulsa and President of The Forum for Real Economic Emancipation, about her work on economic emancipation and the historical context of capitalism and fascism. They discuss the unique economic landscape of Tulsa, the interconnection between economic and political emancipation, and the need for a new understanding of economic models that empower rather than disempower individuals. Clara emphasizes the importance of community building and solidarity in addressing economic issues and imagines a future where people can reclaim their humanity through collective action. Learn more about FREE Follow Reed Online Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Summary Today, Reed and Grace Blakely discuss the current state of the U.S. economy, highlighting the unsustainable concentration of wealth and consumer spending among the top income earners. They explore the implications of the AI bubble, the stagnation of wages despite rising productivity, and the role of the dollar in global economics. The discussion also touches on the impact of technology on employment, the government's response to crises, and the importance of grassroots organizing and political movements in driving change. Follow Reed: https://reedgalen.substack.com/ Follow Grace: https://substack.com/@graceblakeleyhttps://substack.com/@graceblakeley Originally recorded on Substack Live. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Reed and Katie Phang discuss various political themes, including the grotesque nature of recent memorials, the case of Tom Homan and the implications of Project 2025. They explore the hesitations of the Biden administration's Justice Department, the apathy surrounding democracy, and the need for determination in the face of despair. The discussion also touches on shifts in political sentiment and strategies for engaging voters in upcoming elections, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and grassroots efforts. Subscribe to Reed on Substack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Reed and Denver Riggleman discuss the current political landscape in America, focusing on the influence of the Trump administration, media manipulation, and the rise of authoritarianism. They explore how money plays a crucial role in politics, the impact of disinformation, and the challenges of navigating political apathy. The discussion also touches on the consequences of political violence and the future of American democracy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, I take a few minutes to pay tribute to Robert Redford, explain why Congress hasn't passed an on-time budget in 30 years why incompetence is key to surviving inside Trumplandia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Reed Galen and activist Corbin Trent as they discuss why the current political system is broken, why too much money chases too few results, and why the political parties and players we have now aren't going to lead us out of the darkness. Recorded previously on Substack Live! Subscribe to my substack HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, host Reed Galen and Presidential Historian Alexis Coe delve into the unsettling rise of political violence in America, tracing its roots from historical events to contemporary incidents. They explore the societal factors contributing to this trend, including the isolation of young men and the role of media figures like Charlie Kirk. Through a historical lens, they discuss the implications of political violence, drawing parallels from the American Revolution to modern-day challenges. Join the conversation as they examine the complexities of civic engagement and the urgent need for community action in the face of growing polarization. #PoliticalViolence #CivicEngagement #HistoricalContext Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Reed Galen reflects on the recent surge of political violence in America, particularly in light of the tragic shooting of Charlie Kirk. He discusses the implications of such violence on society, especially concerning the safety of children and the normalization of political assassinations. Galen emphasizes the need for grace, patience, and resilience in facing these challenges, urging listeners to look towards the future with hope and determination. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Reed Galen is joined by ⁠David Jolly⁠ (Former Republican Congressman and 2026 Democratic Candidate for Governor of Florida) for a conversation about his political evolution and what it means for the future of the Sunshine State. They discuss Jolly’s journey from Republican to Independent to Democrat, why he believes Florida is at an inflection point, and how affordability, insurance, education, and corruption are shaping the lives of everyday Floridians. Jolly also shares his vision for building a winning coalition, what it will take for Democrats to compete in a state long dominated by the GOP, and why leadership must be about values, not ideology. Plus, the dangers of political apathy, Ron DeSantis’ myth of the “Free State of Florida,” and why he believes this election cycle could change the state’s direction for good. For more from David Jolly, visit ⁠DavidJolly.com⁠ and follow his campaign on social media, @DavidJollyFL. For more from Reed Galen subscribe to⁠⁠ The Home Front⁠⁠, check out⁠⁠ Sez Us⁠⁠ for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit ⁠⁠JoinTheUnion.us⁠⁠ and sign up today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Enjoy this bonus episode of The Home Front featuring Katie Phang. Originally recorded on Substack Live. Follow Katie on Substack! Follow Reed on Substack! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Reed Galen is joined by Gary Gerstle, renowned historian, author, and Paul Mellon Professor of American History Emeritus at the University of Cambridge, for the second half of their conversation to explore the deeper cultural, psychological, and institutional forces shaping America’s political transformation. They discuss why both the right and left seem increasingly disillusioned with democracy, how China’s model of state capitalism is influencing leaders across the spectrum, and why exhaustion (not outrage) may be the biggest threat to democratic life. From the normalization of authoritarian tactics to the eerie quiet of a sidelined U.S. Senate, Gerstle offers a historian’s long view on what happens when civic imagination disappears. For more from Gary Gerstle, pick up “The Rise and Fall of the Neoliberal Order: America and the World in the Free Market Era” wherever fine books are sold. For more from Reed Galen subscribe to⁠⁠ The Home Front⁠⁠, check out⁠⁠ Sez Us⁠⁠ for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit ⁠⁠JoinTheUnion.us⁠⁠ and sign up today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Reed Galen is joined by Gary Gerstle, renowned historian, author, and Paul Mellon Professor of American History Emeritus at the University of Cambridge, for a sweeping conversation about the past, present, and future of American politics. They explore how the old political orders…from FDR’s New Deal to Reagan’s neoliberal revolution…shaped the last century, and whether Donald Trump is on the verge of establishing a new political order of his own. Gerstle traces the intellectual roots of Trumpism, including figures like Pat Buchanan and Viktor Orbán, and explains how the theory of the “unitary executive” is reshaping America’s institutions. Plus, the Democratic Party’s response (or lack thereof), and what it would take to rebuild confidence in democracy for the next generation. For more from Gary Gerstle, pick up “The Rise and Fall of the Neoliberal Order: America and the World in the Free Market Era” wherever fine books are sold. For more from Reed Galen subscribe to⁠⁠ The Home Front⁠⁠, check out⁠⁠ Sez Us⁠⁠ for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit ⁠⁠JoinTheUnion.us⁠⁠ and sign up today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, host Reed Galen and former tech-executive Mike Brock discusses the concept of revanchism in liberalism, emphasizing the need to reclaim lost values in the face of rising neo-fascism. He reflects on historical lessons, the importance of understanding power dynamics, and the challenges posed by the attention economy. The discussion highlights the necessity for personal integrity, community engagement, and a positive vision for the future of the Democratic Party, urging a shift away from fear-based politics towards a more inclusive and proactive approach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recorded from Substack Live. I'm joined by News Not Noise founder Jessica Yellin as I turn the tables and ask her questions about the issues of the day. We talk troops in Washington, Hollywood's silence, and how the redistricting wars play out. Find out more about News Not Noise. Subscribe to me on Substack! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host ⁠Reed Galen⁠⁠ is joined by Tom Nichols (Author and Staff Writer at The Atlantic) for a conversation about what happens to expertise in an age of misinformation, mistrust, and political division. They discuss how experts lost credibility, why institutions failed to defend truth, and what it means when knowledge no longer commands respect in public life. Plus, the cost of treating opinions as equal to evidence and what the next generation of leaders and citizens can do to rebuild trust and defend fact-based decision making in a time of deep cynicism. For more from Tom Nichols, read his work at The Atlantic, follow him on Twitter and Bluesky, and check out his books like “The Death of Expertise” and “Our Own Worst Enemy” wherever fine books are sold. For more from Reed Galen subscribe to⁠⁠ The Home Front⁠⁠, check out⁠⁠ Sez Us⁠⁠ for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit ⁠⁠JoinTheUnion.us⁠⁠ and sign up today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recorded on Substack Live. Reed Galen and former national security official Miles Taylor discuss Donald Trump's deployment of federal troops on the streets of Washington, DC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, host Reed Galen and Axios Finance Reporter Madison Mills discuss the current state of financial news, inflation, and the impact of tariffs on consumers. They explore the role of the bond market in maintaining economic stability and the implications of a K-shaped recovery on different socioeconomic groups. Madison shares her approach to making financial news accessible to younger generations through social media and audience engagement, highlighting the importance of understanding market dynamics and consumer behavior. Read more of Madison's work here. Subscribe to Reed's Substack here. Get involved in the work of building the America of tomorrow, TODAY! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, host Reed Galen and Tina Nguyen of The Verge discuss the evolution of the MAGA movement, its intersection with technology, and the role of crypto in politics. They explore the changing dynamics between big tech and the Republican party, the implications of populism, and the future of the MAGA movement in a post-Trump world. Tina also introduces her new newsletter, 'Regulator,' which focuses on the clash between big tech and government. Further Reading: Tina's Newsletter, Regulator Reed's Substack, The Home Front SUBSCRIBE TO BOTH! Quick Takeaways: MAGA's roots extend back before Trump's presidency. The right has effectively used technology to gain political power. Republicans learn from their past mistakes and adapt. Big Tech's relationship with MAGA has shifted significantly. Populism often appeals to the masses by addressing their grievances. Trump's disregard for traditional political norms has reshaped the GOP. The future of MAGA may depend on its ability to find a successor. The political landscape is increasingly influenced by wealthy tech figures. Tina's newsletter 'Regulator' highlights the tension between tech and government. The Democrats have underestimated the rise of the right in tech. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, host Reed Galen and Utah-based political reporter Bryan Schott delve into the intricacies of Utah politics, focusing on the control of information within the legislature, the influence of developers, and the implications of recent scandals involving key political figures like Stuart Adams. They discuss the challenges faced by journalists in accessing information, the impact of gerrymandering, and the struggle for citizen initiatives against legislative overreach. The conversation highlights the tension between the political class and the citizenry, revealing a landscape where power dynamics significantly affect governance and representation. Subscribe to Bryan's work here. Reed's Substack. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recorded on Substack live, host Reed Galen is joined by write Evelyn Quartz. They discuss the current gerrymandering fight and whether or not it's really about 'democracy.' They also discuss economic populism, Democrats needing to answer hard questions, and how the Millenial generation is being left behind. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this bonus episode, host Reed Galen interviews Mondale Robinson, mayor of Enfield, North Carolina, and founder of the Black Male Voter Project. They discuss why political parties only target 'high propensity' voters, what the people need to do to make their voices heard, and why the elites are often happy to ignore the wishes of those they claim to represent. Recorded from Substack Live. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host ⁠Reed Galen⁠⁠ is joined by Alexander Theodoridis, Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Co-Director of the UMass Poll, for an honest look at why trust in American politics and institutions is at an all-time low. They talk about what’s really driving voter dissatisfaction, the roots of polarization, and why approval ratings and party loyalty don’t mean what they used to. Alex shares insights from his research on public opinion, hyper-polarization, and how Americans are reacting to an era of constant political gridlock. They break down the frustrations of voters who feel like neither party is offering real solutions, the rise of populism, and what happens when people feel the system just isn’t working for them. Plus, how material concerns shape political choices, why it’s so hard to break out of our bubbles, and whether either party can earn back the public’s trust. For more from Alexander Theodoridis, keep an eye out for the latest UMass Polls and follow his research on public opinion, democracy, and polarization. For more from Reed Galen subscribe to⁠⁠ The Home Front⁠⁠, check out⁠⁠ Sez Us⁠⁠ for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit⁠⁠ JoinTheUnion.us⁠⁠ and sign up today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host ⁠Reed Galen⁠⁠ is joined by Sarah Stein Lubrano - writer, researcher, and author of Don’t Talk About Politics: How to Change 21st Century Minds for the second half of their conversation about why building real community is so challenging in the modern world. They discuss the rise of loneliness, the difference between weak ties and true friendships, and how social media has changed the way we connect and organize. They also explore what “social atrophy” means for Americans’ personal lives and politics, why genuine in-person relationships matter more than ever, dig into the science behind deep canvassing, and the hard truth that strong communities require consistent effort. Plus, what the loss of social infrastructure means for democracy and why anyone can play a part in rebuilding it. For more from Sarah Stein Lubrano, check out Don’t Talk About Politics: How to Change 21st Century Minds wherever books are sold, subscribe to My Subschtick, and follow her work with the Sense and Solidarity Initiative, The Future Narratives Lab, and the AHEAD app. For more from Reed Galen subscribe to⁠⁠ The Home Front⁠⁠, check out⁠⁠ Sez Us⁠⁠ for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit⁠⁠ JoinTheUnion.us⁠⁠ and sign up today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host ⁠Reed Galen⁠⁠ is joined by Sarah Stein Lubrano - writer, researcher, and author of Don’t Talk About Politics: How to Change 21st Century Minds - for a candid conversation about what really changes minds in today’s divided world. They dig into why traditional debates and protests rarely move the needle, the real reasons people hold onto their beliefs, and how genuine relationships and action can be what makes a difference. Sarah shares insights from her research on political behavior and cognitive dissonance, explains why changing minds is often a slow, social process, and talks about how activists can build movements that actually last. Plus, the limits of “debate culture,” what both left and right get wrong about persuasion, and why purpose-driven community is more powerful than traditionally expected. For more from Sarah Stein Lubrano, check out Don’t Talk About Politics: How to Change 21st Century Minds wherever books are sold, subscribe to My Subschtick, and follow her work with the Sense and Solidarity Initiative, The Future Narratives Lab, and the AHEAD app. For more from Reed Galen subscribe to⁠⁠ The Home Front⁠⁠, check out⁠⁠ Sez Us⁠⁠ for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit⁠⁠ JoinTheUnion.us⁠⁠ and sign up today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Originally recorded on Substack Live. Join host Reed Galen and Florida-based Democratic strategist Steve Schale as they go through new polling data from 21 swing counties across the country. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us on this episode of the Home Front as host Reed Galen sits down with Dan Osborn, a former union leader and independent candidate for the U.S. Senate in Nebraska. Dan shares his journey from the Kellogg plant picket lines to the political arena, highlighting the fight for fair wages and benefits amidst corporate greed. Discover how labor rights and union leadership play a crucial role in shaping a more equitable future for all workers. Tune in to hear Dan's insights on bridging political divides and advocating for everyday Americans. Get more information about Dan's campaign at Osborn for Senate. Subscribe to Reed on Substack. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, host Reed Galen is joined by Jennifer Adams, a Florida native and small business owner, to discuss the significant barriers faced by non-wealthy candidates in the political arena. Jennifer shares her personal journey of overcoming adversity and thriving despite the odds, highlighting the systemic challenges that deter working parents and community-rooted individuals from running for office. Together, they explore the need for better representation, the impact of financial constraints on candidacy, and the importance of grassroots support in reshaping democracy. Tune in to hear inspiring stories and insights on how we can all contribute to a more inclusive political landscape. Find Jennifer's campaign website here. Florida Community Conversation Recap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, host Reed Galen is joined by Katherine Stewart, an expert on the rise of anti-democratic movements. Together, they delve into the pervasive role of misinformation and propaganda in shaping political landscapes. From the manipulation of truth by powerful figures to the impact of disinformation on public discourse, this conversation uncovers how these tactics are used to consolidate power and influence voters. They explore the intricate web of lies and the urgent need for accountability in democratic governance. Subscribe to Reed on Subtack. Find Katherine's books here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this bonus episode of The Home Front, host Reed Galen is joined by Task Force Butler founder Kris Goldmsith. They discuss how far-right groups like the Patriot Front are using anger, resentment, and social media to convince young American men to join their ranks. Find Kris on Substack. Subscribe to Reed on Substack. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Reed Galen⁠ is joined by journalist and political reporter Abby Tracy⁠ to explore why young women are moving left while young men are trending right. They talk about how changes in education, work, media, and culture are driving this divide. Abby shares stories from her own life and reporting, reflecting on the double standards, challenges, and expectations that young people are facing today. Plus, the importance of education, opportunity, and community, and why investing in the next generation matters now more than ever. For more from Abby Tracy be sure to follow her on⁠ Twitter⁠ and⁠ Instagram⁠. For more from Reed Galen subscribe to⁠ The Home Front⁠, check out⁠ Sez Us⁠ for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit⁠ JoinTheUnion.us⁠ and sign up today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recorded on Substack Live. Host Reed Galen is joined by podcaster, write, and MSNBC contributor Charlie Sykes to discuss what comes after Donald Trump in the GOP. They also discuss the continuing need for decency online, and why the Democratic Party must learn to walk and chew gum. Subscribe to Reed's Substack. Subscribe to Charlie's Substack. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Reed Galen is joined by Grace Blakeley (author and staff writer at Tribune Magazine) and Evelyn Quartz (writer and communications expert), for a wide-ranging conversation about how political and economic elites have shaped a system that works for them, and leaves everyone else behind. They unpack how power protects itself, why traditional institutions have lost public trust, and what it would mean to build a future that’s actually democratic and accountable. Plus, the limits of centrist narratives, how media and messaging uphold the status quo, and why a better path forward requires confronting the hard truths we’re often encouraged to ignore. For more from Grace Blakeley, read her latest book, Vulture Capitalism: Corporate Crimes, Backdoor Bailouts, and the Death of Freedom (don’t miss my interview with Grace about Vulture Capitalism) subscribe to her Substack newsletter, and keep up with her writings at Tribune Magazine. For more from Evelyn Quartz, subscribe to her Substack Newsletter, where she writes about the failure of elite politics and the search for something more honest. For more from Reed Galen subscribe to The Home Front, check out Sez Us for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit JoinTheUnion.us and sign up today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Enjoy this bonus episode of the Home Front featuring attorney and former MSNBC host Katie Phang as she and Reed discuss the BBB and Aligator Alcatraz. Recorded on Substack Live! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, host Reed Galen is joined by Kat Abugazaleh, as she discusses her journey from journalism to running for Congress in Illinois' 9th District. She emphasizes the importance of grassroots movements, community engagement, and authenticity in politics. The discussion touches on voter apathy, the challenges of running a campaign without corporate money, and the need for diverse representation in Congress. Kat advocates for mutual aid and direct support for constituents, highlighting the impact of economic policies on voter sentiment and the necessity of addressing the concerns of young voters. Find Kat's campaign at KatforIllinois.com Subscribe to Reed's Substack JoinTheUnion.us and help build the America of tomorrow. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, host Reed Galen shares his experiences and reflections from his travels in Virginia, discussing the political landscape, personal nostalgia, the importance of education, campaign dynamics, and the implications of the Trump administration. He emphasizes the need for a new vision in American politics and the importance of engaging with communities to foster change. Read his Field Report here. Go to JoinTheUnion.us to get involved today. Find Reed on Linktree. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just kidding. The only thing breaking is my brain and my allergies are killing me. Today, host Reed Galen discusses the current state of news consumption, the complexities of global issues, and the importance of community engagement. He critiques the superficial nature of social media news and emphasizes the need for deeper understanding of global events, particularly regarding military actions and political discourse. Galen encourages listeners to focus on personal responsibility and community involvement rather than getting lost in the noise of sensationalized news. Follow Reed on Substack Join the Union Today and Get Involved! Union Events in VA this week! 6/23 Montpelier 6/24 Suffolk (I'll be there!) 6/25 Blacksburg (I'll be there, too!) 6/27-6/29 Network NOVA Conference Tysons Corner (There, too!!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Reed Galen is joined by Ron Insana, longtime financial journalist and senior analyst at CNBC, for a wide-ranging conversation about how America’s selective memory is putting its future at risk….leaving it vulnerable to instability, misinformation, and growing authoritarian threats. Plus, why today’s political and financial landscape feels more fragile than many realize, how right-wing media has reshaped public memory, what lessons from the 1970s we’re ignoring, and why expertise is under attack when it’s needed most. For more from Ron Insana be sure to check out his work with CNBC. For more from Reed Galen subscribe to The Home Front, check out Sez Us for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit JoinTheUnion.us and sign up today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Host Reed Galen and Jeff Sharlet discuss the current state of American politics a decade into the Trump-a-scene era. They explore the consolidation of Trumpism, the challenges of political engagement, and the importance of community building in the face of rising political violence and disillusionment. The discussion emphasizes the need for local action and resilience in democracy, contrasting the right's effective community organizing with the left's struggles to mobilize and engage. To get involved, go to JoinTheUnion.us to attend a local community meet up. Read Jeff's book, A Slow Civil War Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, host Reed Galen and Tara Palmeri discuss the political landscape surrounding Donald Trump and Joe Biden, reflecting on Trump's legacy, the challenges of Biden's presidency, and the implications of impeachment. They explore the dynamics within the Democratic Party, the role of media in shaping public perception, and the need for a clear political strategy moving forward. The discussion emphasizes the importance of addressing what the Democratic Party stands for and how they can effectively engage with voters. Subscribe to Reed on Substack. Subscribe to Tara on Substack. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Host Reed Galen comes to you solo and reflects on personal loss and the broader implications of violence in society. He discusses the recent tragic shooting in Minnesota, the impact of such events on families, particularly children, and the dangers of allowing hate to dictate our responses. Galen emphasizes the importance of community engagement and individual actions in fostering a supportive environment, urging listeners to focus on kindness and civil participation as a means to heal and rebuild. Subscribe to Reed's Substack Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Host Reed Galen as Joe Walsh discusses his transition from the Tea Party to the Democratic Party, emphasizing the need for a big tent to unite various factions within the party. He reflects on his political evolution, the importance of authenticity, and the necessity for Democrats to engage with the American public. Walsh calls for a renewed focus on fighting for democracy and winning elections, urging Democrats to embrace diverse voices and perspectives to create a more inclusive political landscape. Chapters 00:00 From Tea Party to Democratic Party 08:09 The Big Tent: Expanding the Democratic Party 17:20 Authenticity and Fighting for Change 23:35 Engaging with the American People 29:30 A Call to Action for Democrats Find Reed on Substack Find Joe on Substack JoinTheUnion today! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Reed Galen is joined by Miles Taylor, national security expert, New York Times best-selling author, and former Chief of Staff at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. They discuss what it’s like when the President of the United States decides you’re the enemy. Taylor shares his personal experience standing up to Donald Trump’s chaos and revenge politics, and how that decision changed his life forever. They talk about the real stakes of telling the truth in Washington, the threats and intimidation that come from the top, and why resistance is both necessary and deeply costly. Plus, the difference between unconstitutional and anti-constitutional and how our nation must respond to this moment’s dangerous tipping point. For more from Miles Taylor, read his books A Warning and Blowback wherever books are sold, subscribe to Treason (his Substack newsletter), and join the fight to end presidential revenge by visiting endpresidentialrevenge.org. For more from Reed Galen, subscribe to The Home Front, check out Sez Us for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit JoinTheUnion.us and sign up today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging conversation, host Reed Galen historian Alexis Coe discusses her upcoming book on young John F. Kennedy and reflects on her recent experience testifying before Congress about JFK's assassination. The discussion delves into the historical context of JFK's legacy, the obsession with his assassination, and the dysfunction within Congress. Coe emphasizes the importance of civic responsibility and the challenges both political parties face in addressing the needs of the American people. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the current political landscape, discussing the need for change in the resistance movement, the historical context of political change, and the importance of empathy in politics. They explore the evolution of voting rights, the crisis of leadership, and the role of Congress in governance. The discussion also touches on the legitimacy of government, the impact of presidential pardons, and the disconnect between different American experiences. Reed and Alexis emphasize the need for civic engagement and the importance of storytelling in politics, while critiquing the performative nature of modern political discourse. Subscribe to Alexis' Substack Buy Alexis' terrific biography of George Washington! Subscribe to The Home Front We need YOUR help to build the America of tomorrow! JoinTheUnion.us today and get involved! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, host Reed Galen discusses the current state of political discourse in the Trump era, focusing on the challenges faced by the Democratic Party in messaging and voter engagement. He critiques the reliance on data-driven strategies and emphasizes the need for authentic connections with voters. Galen warns that the Democratic Party's reluctance to engage in political combat could lead to dire consequences for liberalism in America. Read more on Substack Go to JoinTheUnion.us and find a home for the politically homeless. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Reed Galen is joined by Dr. Francis Fukuyama, renowned political scientist and the Olivier Nomellini Senior Fellow at Stanford University's Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, for a deep dive into why liberal democracies are losing the confidence of their citizens. They discuss the core idea behind Fukuyama’s latest work: that democracy must deliver…not just in ideals, but in outcomes. From crumbling infrastructure to ineffective institutions, they explore how decades of government dysfunction have created space for authoritarian populism and what it will take to rebuild public trust. Plus, a path forward for a revitalized liberalism rooted in competence, not just values. For more from Dr. Francis Fukuyama, read his latest essay in the Journal of Democracy “Delivering for Democracy: Why Results Matter”, subscribe to his “Frankly Fukuyama” newsletter, and follow his “Frankly Fukuyama” YouTube Channel, and pick up his books including “Liberalism and Its Discontents” wherever fine books are found. For more from Reed Galen, subscribe to The Home Front, check out Sez Us for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit JoinTheUnion.us and sign up today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, host Reed Galen speaks with Lauren Windsor about her investigative work, particularly focusing on Ed Martin and his connections to January 6th defendants. They discuss the broader network of right-wing organizations, the funding sources that support these movements, and the challenges faced by progressive media. The conversation also touches on the current political climate, the implications of Ed Martin's new role in the DOJ, and the need for a progressive vision for government reform. Finally, they compare the Occupy movement to the Tea Party, exploring the differences in funding and organizational support. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, host Reed Galen is joined by Mike Smith, a veteran Navy F-18 pilot and host of Hard Points on the Valor Media Network. They discuss the meaning behind Memorial Day, how hard it is to lose friends, what it's like to operate on an aircraft carrier and more. Learn more about the Valor Media Network. Learn more about Mike's company, Acylmate. Follow Reed on Substack. JoinTheUnion.us - Help us build the army of democracy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

​​Host Reed Galen is joined by U.S. Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06), who brings a candid and urgent message: the Democratic Party is losing legitimacy with voters…and it’s time to own up, change course, and lead. They discuss the GOP’s economic deception, why playing it safe won’t beat Trump, how Democrats can reconnect with everyday Americans by embracing tough conversations, not avoiding them. Plus, the role of government when it comes to AI. For more from Rep. Seth Moulton, be sure to follow him on social media and visit his office’s website. For more from Reed Galen, subscribe to The Home Front, check out Sez Us for a new social media platform for sane people, and if you want to personally join the fight to save our nation’s democracy, visit JoinTheUnion.us and sign up today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices