Defense of Democracy Podcast

In this episode, Karen talks with Erin, an advocate for the trans and queer community. They discuss the challenges faced by trans and queer youth, the targeting of marginalized communities, and the importance of local engagement in fighting discriminatory laws.  Erin shares stories of hope and resilience, highlighting the progress made by trans individuals and the power of community support.  They...

In this episode Karen sits down with Tiffany Fee, founder of the Rutherford County Library Alliance. They discuss the attacks on public libraries and the cancellation of Pride events in Rutherford County, Tennessee.  Tiffany highlights the challenges faced by the school district, including overcrowding and the need for diversity and inclusivity in curriculum and clubs. She emphasizes the importanc...

In this episode, Karen sits down with Sean and discusses his involvement in defending Oklahoma's education system. Sean highlights the challenges faced by the state's schools and the impact of defunding.  Sean shares his concerns about Ryan Walters, the Secretary of Education, and his controversial actions. He emphasizes the importance of organizing and taking action to protect education...

In this episode, Karen sits down with Andy and June to talk about their involvement with the Satanic Temple and their efforts to combat religious extremism in public schools. They discuss the non-theistic beliefs of the Satanic Temple and clarify that they do not worship Satan. They also highlight the challenges posed by the Good News Club, a Christian evangelical organization, and the importance...

In this episode, Karen sits down to talk with Lacey. She shares her experience of racial discrimination and harassment in her children's school in Castle Rock, Colorado.  The incident began when her daughter was called a racial slur in the school gymnasium, leading Lacey to question the school's response and the lack of clear definitions and punishments for hate crimes. Another incident...

In this episode Karen sits down with Sheri to discuss her advocacy work and the struggles faced by marginalized communities in Texas.  She highlights the teachings of the Jewish faith that support inclusivity and acceptance. Sheri draws parallels between the current state of affairs and the Holocaust, emphasizing the dangers of discrimination and scapegoating.  The conversation also delves into th...

In this episode, Karen talks with Michael, a former teacher in Florida. He discusses the challenges and restrictions faced by educators in the state's education system.  He highlights the laws that have constrained teachers' ability to teach and the restrictions on books and interactions with transgender students.  Michael shares his personal experience of having his classroom library bo...

In this episode, Karen talks with Lance Preston, the founder of Rainbow Youth Project, discusses the increase in crisis calls from LGBTQ youth and the overwhelming impact of anti-LGBTQ legislation and adult bullying. He shares the collaboration between Rainbow Youth Project and Defense of Democracy and emphasizes the importance of advocacy and collaboration in supporting LGBTQ youth. Lance also hi...

In this episode, Karen talks with Dante, the co-chair of the Defense of Democracy DEI committee.  Dante shares his background and passion for making a difference in his community. He discusses his experience working in policy and the importance of empowering voices.  Dante and Karen also talk about the recruitment process for the committee and the need for a future-focused and driven community.  T...

In this conversation, Karen sits down again with Liz, the founder of Stop Moms for Liberty (MfL). They discuss the recent controversies surrounding MfL.  Liz highlights MfL's connection to a registered sex offender and their lack of accountability. Liz also reveals the financials of the group, with their latest income being $2 million. She emphasizes the declining influence of MfL and their n...

In this episode Karen sits down with Texas Trey. Trey shares his journey from being a lifelong Republican to creating content that challenges conservative ideologies. He discusses his changing views on the Second Amendment and the need for responsible gun ownership.  Trey also highlights the influence of money in politics and the tactics used by far-right groups to create chaos and maintain contro...

In this episode Karen sits down to talk with Amanda, a teacher, librarian, and grassroots organizer, shares her journey of fighting against censorship in libraries. She discusses the targeted harassment she has faced and the legal actions she has taken.  Amanda also talks about forming the Livingston Parish Library Alliance and her upcoming book. She emphasizes the importance of using privilege fo...

In this episode Karen talks with Rochelle and Katie. They  discuss their experiences with Pride Troop, a Girl Scout troop that welcomes everyone in the LGBTQ+ community.  They talk about the challenges they faced during the pandemic and the importance of preserving Girl Scouting.  The Pride Troop has received support from the community and has participated in pride parades and events. They also di...

In this episode Karen sits down with Brooke, who recounts her journey leaving the Mormon religion and moving from Utah to New York. Brooke shares the challenges of leaving her tight-knit community and the impact it had on her family relationships. She discusses the difficulties of adapting to New York and facing bigotry in her conservative area. Despite the initial struggles, Brooke delves into he...

In this episode Karen and Rob explore the shift in religious values in America and the desperation of religious conservatives to impose their views. It discusses the decline of religious belief in the country and the search for meaning and purpose in a secular society. The hypocrisy of religious conservatives is highlighted through the scandal involving Bridget and Christian Ziegler. The conversat...

In this episode, Karen talks with Rob, an expert on fascist groups and Christian nationalism. They discuss the Seven Mountains Mandate, a movement that aims to have evangelical Christians control seven spheres of societal influence. They also explore the impact of Christian nationalism on public education and the need for unity and collaboration in defending democracy. The conversation highlights...

In this episode, Karen discusses with Nichole the recent school shooting in Las Vegas and the frequency of such incidents in the United States. Nichole shares her personal experiences with school shootings and the trauma they cause. Nicole emphasizes the need for responsible gun laws and criticizes the involvement of alt-right groups in shaping education policy. She calls for a national week of mo...

In this episode Karen sits down and talks with Amy, a Defense of Democracy volunteer, discussing her journey from being a volunteer to her current leadership role. Amy's passion for defending democracy, rooted in her experiences with the Beto O'Rourke campaign and concerns about the Texas GOP's impact on public education, drove her to join the cause.  She highlights the challenges i...

In this captivating episode Karen sits down with  Julie, a key figure in Gender Equality New York, a nonprofit advocating for transgender, gender non-binary, and intersex individuals in New York State. Karen discusses the Defense of Democracy's origins, its advocacy work, and challenges faced by the transgender community, particularly the lack of civil rights protections until recent years. J...

In this episode Karen talks with Rob Tracinski. Their conversation delves into the shifting landscape of American conservatism, where Rob reflects on the fracturing of the Republican Party during the Trump era. He discusses the transformation of many conservatives, likening it to a shift akin to "the invasion of the body snatchers," where individuals began echoing views they would have v...

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, Karen sits down with Erica from Oklahoma, a passionate advocate and founder of the Oklahoma chapter. Erica discusses her involvement, motivated by the politicization of public education and the growing influence of groups like Moms for Liberty in her community. They delve into Oklahoma's education system, highlighting issues of underfunding...

In this episode Karen sits down to talk with Liz with over 30 years of experience in studying education policies. She shares insights into the privatization efforts led by figures like Betsy DeVos, particularly in Michigan.  They dive into the background and motivations behind the Moms for Liberty movement and its impact on the public school system.  Liz highlights the connection between Moms for...

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy Karen sits down and talks with Paige, a senior student majoring in communications.  Paige discusses the varying experiences of censorship, oppression, and civil rights issues in schools based on regional differences. Specifically, the discussion revolves around the challenges of discussing gender expression and LGBTQ+ issues in educational settings.  The...

**Trigger Warning** This episode contains content that may be triggering* In this episode Karen talks with Nicole, an LGBTQIA+ advocate, librarian, and Defense of Democracy volunteer, focusing on her work advocating for marginalized communities and defending the right to inclusive literature in schools. Nicole highlights her background, experience as an elementary school librarian in Las Vegas, an...

**Listener Discretion Advised - This episode contains Adult Content* In this episode Karen interviews Tamie Wilson , a congressional candidate from Ohio, who is challenging Jim Jordan. Tamie shares her background as an entrepreneur, a single mom, and the granddaughter of a World War II veteran. She discusses her motivation for running for Congress, emphasizing her passion for helping people and he...