The Zekely Podcast

Summary In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, host Zeke engages with guests Annette Deigh, Rob Gurtcheff, and Gina Arlen from Defense of Democracy, an organization dedicated to protecting public education in Pennsylvania. The conversation explores their motivations for advocacy, the goals of their organization, and the challenges posed by groups like Moms for Liberty. They discuss the importance...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, host Zeke interviews Judge Michael Wojcik, a Pennsylvania native and Commonwealth Court judge running (standing) for retention. They discuss the intricacies of Pennsylvania's judicial system, the importance of judicial independence, and the impact of political influences on judicial decisions. Judge Wojcik shares his passion for election law, signific...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, host Zeke interviews Jenn Brothers, a Democratic candidate for Congress in Pennsylvania's 9th district. They discuss Jenn's motivations for running, the critical issues facing her community, including access to clean water and food insecurity, and her commitment to LGBTQ+ rights. The conversation also touches on the importance of supporting small busi...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, host Zeke engages with Luke Mandel, a Gen Z political activist, discussing the unique perspectives and challenges faced by the younger generation in today's political landscape. They explore Luke's journey into politics, the reshaping of the Democratic Party by Gen Z, the importance of education, and the need for local engagement in elections. The con...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely podcast, host Zeke interviews Noah Marlier, the Prothonotary of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. They discuss the role of the Prothonotary, Marlier's journey from Assistant District Attorney to his current position, and the various services his office provides to the community. Marlier emphasizes the importance of meeting people where they are, advocating for...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely podcast, host Zeke interviews Judge Stella Tsai, a candidate for the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania. They discuss her personal background, family influences, and the importance of representation in the judiciary. Judge Tsai shares her experiences as a judge, her judicial philosophy, and the impact of her community involvement. The conversation also include...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, host Zeke speaks with Lindsey Scott, a veteran and chair of the Crawford County Democratic Committee. They discuss Lindsey's journey into politics, her advocacy for veterans and rural communities, and the importance of civic engagement. Lindsey shares her experiences in the military, the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, and her commi...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely podcast, host Zeke interviews Dana Edwards, a candidate for mayor of Narberth, Pennsylvania. They discuss Dana's background in technology, his motivations for running for office, and his vision for improving the community. Dana emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and local elections, sharing his plans to address community concerns such as traffic, de...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, host Zeke interviews Lauren Hughes, a lawyer and councilwoman running for the Court of Common Pleas in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. They discuss her journey into law, the importance of civic engagement, and the role of judges in the community. Lauren shares her experiences as a public defender, her current role as a senior solicitor, and her views...

Summary In this episode of The Zekely Podcast, host Zeke interviews Pennsylvania State Representative Michael Schlossberg, who discusses his journey in politics, the role of a House Majority Whip, and his legislative priorities. Schlossberg emphasizes the importance of local government, community engagement, and addressing misinformation. He shares personal insights about balancing family life wit...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, host Zeke interviews Erica Deuso, a scientist, businesswoman, and civic leader running for mayor of Downingtown, Pennsylvania. Erica shares her motivations for running, her experiences living abroad, and her vision for the community, focusing on safety, sustainability, and strong traditions. The conversation highlights the importance of representation...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, Zeke interviews Mark Pinsley, the controller of Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. They discuss Mark's journey into politics, his responsibilities as a controller, and his investigations into systemic issues, including a significant case of medical child abuse. Mark shares personal stories about his family and his commitment to fighting for healthcare refor...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, host Zeke Tayler interviews Gabriella Coleman, a lawyer and candidate for Magisterial District Judge in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. They discuss Gabriella's legal background, her campaign strategies, and the importance of community engagement. Gabriella shares her experiences working with victims of sexual assault and emphasizes the need for trauma-inf...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, Zeke interviews Jane Cramer, a mental health deputy administrator and social justice advocate from Bucks County, Pennsylvania. They discuss the rise of conservative influence in local education, the importance of community activism, and the power of humor in advocacy. Jane shares her experiences in flipping the school board and offers advice for those...

Summary In this episode of The Zekely Podcast, host Zeke engages with Senator Vincent Hughes, a long-serving member of the Pennsylvania State Senate. They discuss a range of topics including the importance of relationships, the challenges of modern politics, mental health advocacy, and legislative efforts in education and healthcare. Senator Hughes shares insights from his extensive experience in...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely podcast, host Zeke engages with four candidates running for the Lower Merion School Board. The conversation explores their motivations for running, the challenges they face, and their visions for the future of education in their community. The candidates share personal stories, discuss the importance of civic engagement, and highlight the need for responsible...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely podcast, host Zeke interviews Judge Brandon Neuman, who is running for the Pennsylvania Superior Court. They discuss Judge Neuman's background, his experience as a trial judge, and the importance of judicial races. Judge Neuman shares insights into the role of judges in society, the significance of integrity in the judiciary, and his personal life, including h...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, host Zeke interviews Senator Amanda Cappelletti, who made history as the first Pennsylvania State Senator to give birth while in office. They discuss her journey in politics, the importance of public speaking, and the various legislative committees she has been a part of. The conversation also touches on her personal experiences, including her childho...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely podcast, host Zeke interviews Arvind Venkat, a Democratic state representative from Pennsylvania. They discuss Venkat's journey into politics, his commitment to healthcare as a right, and the importance of representation for diverse communities. Venkat shares insights on balancing his dual career as a physician and legislator, highlights local businesses, and...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely podcast, host Zeke interviews Rebecca Starr, a lawyer and community advocate running for mayor of Narberth, Pennsylvania. They discuss her motivations for running, her vision for the community, and the responsibilities of a mayor. Rebecca shares her thoughts on community engagement, the importance of local businesses, and her commitment to inclusivity and publ...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, host Zeke interviews Dan Goughnour, a detective and school board member running for a State House seat in Pennsylvania. They discuss Dan's motivations for running, his experiences as a parent, his coaching philosophy, and the importance of community engagement. The conversation also touches on the role of Unions, the challenges of law enforcement, and...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, host Zeke interviews Jannie Lau, a retired lawyer and current school board member in Radnor Township. They discuss Jannie's experiences meeting tennis star Rafael Nadal, her motivations for running for school board, and the importance of civic duty. The conversation also touches on family activities, barriers women face in leadership roles, and the si...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, host Zeke interviews Mayor James Malone, who is running as the Democratic candidate for the Open State Senate seat in SD36, Pennsylvania. They discuss Malone's journey into politics, personal challenges he has faced, his political values, and his stance on key issues such as reproductive health care. Malone shares his goals for the State Senate, the i...

Summary In this episode of the Zekely podcast, host Zeke speaks with Monet Reilly, a union representative and Democratic candidate for Delaware County Council. They discuss Monet's motivations for entering politics, her vision for the county, the importance of representation in education, and the pressing issues facing the community, including housing and mental health. The conversation also touch...

Summary In this episode of The Zekely Podcast, host Zeke interviews Dr. Max Cooper, an assistant professor in Emergency Medicine and a candidate for DELCO County Council. They discuss Dr. Cooper's experiences in the medical field, humorous stories from his residency, and the importance of mental health for healthcare professionals. Dr. Cooper shares his motivations for running for local office, em...