Democracy Does: The Civic Power Playbook

Thank you for listening to season one of Democracy Does: The Civic Power Playbook. This season focused on how policy decisions affect everyday life, featuring voices of single parents, veterans, advocates, and experts who shared real stories and practical insights beyond political theater. As we take a brief hiatus before season two, this episode reflects on why staying informed matters—and how de...

In this episode of Democracy Does the Civic Power Playbook, host Robin Hamilton sits down with Jeff Koziatek, keynote speaker, leadership consultant, and author of 'Blueprint for Value.' Jeff explains how understanding your intrinsic worth can help you connect more genuinely with people, even those with differing viewpoints. He shares his personal journey of shifting from a performance-driven life...

Join us for Part 2 of Democracy Does' community conversation in Charleston, South Carolina, titled 'We the People: A Conversation That Moves Us Forward.' In this episode, host Robin Hamilton leads a discussion with local leaders and activists about the importance of grassroots initiatives, civic engagement, and fostering positive discourse in the community. Highlights include a recap of a recent s...

In this episode, Robin Hamilton takes the show on the road to Charleston, South Carolina.  She sits down with inspiring local leaders, including Jimmy Bailey of YEScarolina, Audrey KS Lane of the E3 Foundation, and Mackie Krawcheck Moore of Silence Is Not An Option (SINO), and delves into the impact of grassroots activism and civic engagement on local and national levels. Key topics include the im...

In this episode, we sit down with Allison Shapira, CEO of Global Public Speaking, who talks about the importance of choosing words wisely - and listening. Check it out and perhaps learn some tips and tricks when it comes talking to someone with whom you think you can't connect. True connection, she says, comes from authenticity and emotion.   

This week on Democracy Does: The Civic Power Playbook, I had the honor of speaking with Retired Sergeant Douglas Brinker, whose decades of service in both the Navy and Army National Guard took him across the world—from Beirut to Operation Iraqi Freedom. His story is not only one of sacrifice, but of resilience.

In this bonus episode of 'Democracy Does: The Civic Power Playbook,' host Robin Hamilton welcomes Anthony Wright, Executive Director of Families USA, to discuss the urgent issue of expiring healthcare tax credits. Wright explains how the expiration of these credits will lead to skyrocketing healthcare premiums for over 22 million Americans, with some facing increases by hundreds or even thousands...

In this episode of Democracy, Does the Civic Power Playbook, the host welcomes retired US Navy Commander Bobby Jones. The discussion centers on his distinguished military career, his inspiration to serve, and the leadership qualities fostered at the Naval Academy. Commander Jones shares insights on the challenges faced by veterans, the founding and importance of Veterans for Responsible Leadership...

In this episode of Democracy Does the Civic Power Playbook, host Robin Hamilton is joined by financial advisor and expert Thomas Sowanick. Thomas provides a comprehensive breakdown of what tariffs are, how they impact the U.S. economy, and what that means for the average consumer. 

The Vital Role of Dental Health: A Conversation with Dr. Wenzel Carter Halloween may be spooky, but retired dentist Dr. Wenzell Carter says the real scare is what happens if healthcare cuts move forward. In this episode of Democracy Does the Civic Power Playbook, host Robin Hamilton discusses the critical importance of dental health with  Dr. Carter. They explore Dr. Carter's career journey, the c...

In this episode, Robin Hamilton interviews Glen, Lynne, and Joe White to discuss the impact of recent Medicaid cuts on individuals reliant on public benefits. Glen, a retired RN, shares the difficulties faced by his fiancé, Lynne, who suffers from epilepsy and relies heavily on Medicaid for her expensive treatment. Joe White, an organizer for Affordable Virginia, highlights the broader implication...

Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. David Schein—bestselling author, professor, and political management expert—as we dive into the challenges facing American democracy today. Dr. Schein discusses the impact of term limits, the disconnect between politicians and the public, the influence of lobbyists, and the importance of civic engagement. We also explore the role of education, the ne...

Join us for an insightful conversation with Rochelle Kishcart, a former Navy member turned federal worker, as she shares her journey and the vital role of empathic listening in community activism. Rochelle explains how her experiences in the military and public service shaped her understanding of empathy, and why truly listening to others is essential for anyone seeking to make a positive impact

In this episode of Democracy Does: The Civic Power Playbook, host Robin Hamilton interviews Jeff Rasley, a lawyer, author, and philanthropist. They discuss the importance of being environmentally responsible, politically active, and how to make an impact on community development.

In this powerful conversation, Angel Pye, a union leader for caregivers, shares her first-hand experience of the sacrifices required to care for her son on limited Medicaid benefits.

This week on Democracy Does, I sat down with Amanda Pittman, Communications Director for Affordable Virginia, to talk about why staying informed on federal policy is critical—and how decisions made in Washington, D.C. are already being felt in Virginia communities. In this conversation,  Amanda reminds us, “Feeding kids and caring for seniors shouldn’t be political. These are values we all share.”

In this edition of 'Democracy Does the Civic Power Playbook,' host Robin Hamilton travels to Virginia Beach to explore how federal policies impact local communities. Featuring an in-depth discussion with former Maryland Governor and ex-Social Security Commissioner Martin O'Malley, this episode focuses on the alarming state of the Social Security Administration.

In this powerful episode of Democracy Does: The Civic Power Playbook, we sit down with Frederic Riccardi, President of the Medicare Rights Center, to break down how recent changes in federal legislation could affect millions of older adults and people with disabilities — and what you can do to protect yourself or someone you love.

Chasity Wells Armstrong, a former mayor turned coach, shares her journey from social work to city hall, and how serving her hometown of Kankakee, Illinois, shaped her understanding of power, politics, and purpose. She reminds us that systems, while imperfect, matter — and that they’re only as strong as the people who show up to shape them.

This podcast cuts through the noise of politics to explain the policies that matter most, with experts who know how the system really works. But we don't stop at analysis—every episode empowers you with concrete actions you can take, from top experts who know their stuff.