Powers at Play

In this episode of Powers at Play, host Mandie Rae Kijinski sits down with former Biden-Harris presidential appointee Juven Jacob to explore how smart policy and bold advocacy can bridge America's widening economic gaps. From Houston to Washington:  Juven traces his path to the White House and explains how lived experience shapes his fight for affordable housing and economic mobility. Taxation...

In this conversation, Dr. Gilly Kahn discusses her journey as a psychologist and author focusing on ADHD, particularly in women and girls. She highlights the unique challenges faced by women with ADHD, including emotional dysregulation and the impact of societal biases in research and diagnosis. The discussion delves into the neurological aspects of ADHD, the differences in brain functionality bet...

This week’s Powers at Play episode is raw, real, and life-saving. Amanda, known as @OrangeAFMama, walks us through the heartbreak of losing her daughter Juniper at 38 weeks, and what she’s learned about how the medical system fails pregnant people in ways that are as preventable as they are devastating. We talk about measuring placentas, tracking fetal movement, and how cultural pressure to be “lo...

This episode of  Powers at Play  is one I’ve been counting down for , and trust me, it delivers. I’m joined by the ever-radiant, wildly brilliant, and truth-seeking  Mercedes Chandler , better known online as  @CampCallOut  across all social platforms. Her story is jaw-dropping, deeply personal, and absolutely essential listening. Mercedes opens up about her upbringing in a hyper-conservative, rel...

In this powerful episode of Powers at Play , Mandie sits down with the incredibly talented Todd Zack Jr. , an R&B artist whose music is deeply shaped by his personal journey. Todd shares what it was like growing up with his father incarcerated, how that experience shaped his worldview, and how he channels those emotions into his art—turning pain, resilience, and reflection into something trans...

Mandie K is joined by Dr. Megan Prior, a pediatrician and dedicated mother, to tackle the pressing childcare crisis affecting families across the United States. Drawing on Dr. Prior's medical expertise and personal experiences, the conversation explores the challenges faced by working parents, the long-term impact of childcare inequities on child development, and actionable solutions to create a m...

In this episode, Mandie K is joined by Jim McIntyre, Regional Communications Director, and Christy Peters, Regional Manager, of the American Red Cross of Northern Ohio. Together, they delve into the incredible mission of the Red Cross—preventing and alleviating human suffering through disaster response, blood donation, and community initiatives. The discussion uncovers the far-reaching impact of t...

Mandie, with no personal experience with firearms, sits down with Ian Oskins, a military veteran and Army Ranger, for an open and honest conversation about what needs to change. The conversation highlights the need for progress and open dialogue to address the root causes of gun violence, including the importance of addressing mental health, and improving gun safety. The speakers discuss their ide...

In this Powers at Play episode, Mandie Kijinski interviews Joe Postwaite, BID Young Professional Volunteer, and Katie Eichenauer, Executive Director of Believe in Dreams, a Northeast Ohio nonprofit that empowers youth who have faced poverty and non-medical hardship or trauma. Through customized dream packages, they provide access to opportunity, connection to community and hope for the future. Joe...

Anthony "Goodie" Heygood and Mandie Kijinski recently sat down to discuss a wide range of political and social issues, despite their differing political views. Their conversation exemplified how two people from opposite sides of the political spectrum can discuss complex topics openly, respectfully, and with a focus on finding common ground. They started by underscoring the importance of relying o...

In this episode, Mandie K interviews Gloria Blevins, the Executive Director of the Black Child Development Institute of Ohio (BCDI/BCI).  They discuss the organization's mission to advocate for Black and Brown children, the systemic challenges these communities face, and the importance of education and awareness in addressing these issues.  Gloria shares insights on the political landscape affecti...

Drawing on his personal experience growing up in Lima, Ohio, home to a large oil refinery, and his extensive professional career in Washington, D.C., where he worked on national energy policy in Congress, Joe shares insights into the environmental, health, and economic impacts of fossil fuel reliance. Mandie and Joe explore the urgent need to transition to clean energy to secure long-term economic...

In this conversation, Nell Goza shares her journey from growing up in a conservative, religious household to finding her own voice and beliefs. Nell opens up about her fears as a young child of expressing views that went against the status quo of her family and upbringing and the deep pulls she felt to change her beliefs to protect children and women's rights, and their future. She reflects on...

As the Powers at Play podcast continues to grow, we're excited to offer ways for listeners to support the initiatives we discuss. Your support will focus on two critical areas: Support for Bipartisan Nonprofits: Our top priority is raising donations for bipartisan nonprofits featured on Powers at Play or participating as our nonprofit of the month. Your contributions help sustain organizations...

In this conversation, Mandie K interviews Brittany Oldfield, a survivor of human trafficking.  Despite facing immense trauma and adversity, Brittany's resilience and determination to protect others shine through. She highlights the importance of understanding the complexities of the conditioning, coercion, manipulation and force used by human traffickers.  She highlights the misconceptions and...

In this conversation, Mandie and Natalie discuss their different perspectives on abortion and reproductive rights. Natalie holds a pro-life stance based on her Christian worldview, scientific evidence, and personal experience growing up in a large family. Mandie, on the other hand, believes in a woman's right to choose based on her interpretation of the Constitution, freedom of religion, and t...

In this conversation, Mandie K (Liberal) interviews Marshall Ariza (Conservative), a retired consultant with a background in economics and finance. They discuss the influence of elites and the necessity for transparency in media organizations, delving into topics of faith, the importance of questioning authority, and the value of diverse perspectives. The speakers share their personal experiences...

Tom H., a conservative, and Mandie K. a liberal discuss the importance of civic engagement and finding common ground. Tom shares his background as a chemist and IT project manager, as well as his involvement in education and activism. They discuss the need for transparency in tax money and the importance of making choices in government priorities. They also touch on the role of the Constitution, t...

The conversation between Mandie K and Dr. Sheri Minor explores the controversy and division surrounding vaccines, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The speakers discuss their personal struggles and dilemmas regarding vaccine decisions for themselves and their children. They delve into the ethical theories of consequentialism and non-consequentialism, highlighting the tension be...

Mandie Kijinski and Ted Wetzel sit down to discuss their shared desire to restore unity in America. Ted Wetzel, the founder of " Dinner and a Fight , " has created a process that merges dinner with dialogue to tackle divisive topics. The aim is to engage in civilized, yet passionate discussions without being offensive. This event is held at various locations across the United States and...

In this conversation, Amanda Weekley and Mandie K discuss their personal experiences with abuse and the impact it had on their lives. They talk about the importance of open conversations about relationships, sex, and consent, and how the lack of these conversations affected them as young adults. They also discuss coping mechanisms and the need for control that can arise from abusive relationships....

Dr. Tye Martin, a voice of equality for people with disabilities, shares his journey with muscular dystrophy (MD) and the importance of inclusivity in healthcare and policymaking. He emphasizes the need for personalized care and support for individuals with MD, as well as the role of technology in early diagnosis and reproductive rights. The conversation also touches on the funding and accessibili...

In this conversation, Mandie K speaks with her friend Chris Ross about systemic racism, economic disparities, and navigating conversations with children about these topics. They discuss the impact of systemic racism on black children and the importance of black fathers taking responsibility for their families. They also explore the challenges faced by immigrants and the need for grace and understa...

Fiona shares her experience of starting a family as a LGBTQIA+ couple through assisted reproductive technology. She discusses the process of finding a fertility bank that works with LGBTQIA+ individuals and choosing an anonymous sperm donor. Fiona also talks about the challenges and decisions involved in embryo adoption and finding the right family to adopt their remaining embryos. She emphasizes...

In the welcoming embrace of her new podcast/videocast, Mandie Kijinski invites listeners and viewers on a compelling journey of human experiences. At the heart of Mandie's vision is a community where every voice finds a place, every story is valued, and every perspective is given the chance to shine. With infectious enthusiasm, she introduces a series that promises to bridge divides through em...