SpinSisters

Mary and Tara talk about the dynamics of the upcoming Minnesota elections, focusing on local issues such as fraud in government, housing, and healthcare. The hosts also discuss the impact of national trends on local races, the significance of women in leadership roles, and the strategies employed by candidates as they approach the election. The conversation delves into the competitive landscape of...

The conversation with George Conway covers his introduction to John Kaul, his decision to run for Congress, and his experience with the Trump administration. It also delves into his reasons for opposing the administration and his insights into the functioning of the Justice Department. The conversation also includes the impact of the Trump administration on the Justice Department, defiance of fede...

The conversation with John Kaul, former lobbyist, covers the upcoming exhibition 'Defenders of Democracy' and features discussions on the panelists, the purpose of the exhibition, and the current political climate. It delves into the backgrounds and actions of notable figures such as Ty Cobb, Bill Kristol, Liz Oyer, George Conway, Marie Yovanovich, Aquilino Gonell, Miles Taylor and Michael Luttig....

The conversation examines Minnesota’s escalating fraud controversy and questions whether claims of a widespread “fraud epidemic” are supported by evidence. Drawing on Dane Smith’s experience as a journalist and public-policy analyst, the discussion critically evaluates the widely cited $9 billion fraud estimate and places Minnesota’s record in context with fraud cases in other states. The episode...

Mary and Tara speak with Stacey Young of Justice Connection and Professor of Law, Jessica West about issues of surveillance and constitutional law, highlighting the challenges in regulating federal agencies and the historical context of surveillance in the US. They discuss the actions of the Trump DOJ on Minnesotans during Operation Metro Surge in surveilling Minnesotans just exercise their free s...

Mary and Tara talk to the hosts of the hit political podcast Grounded with former US Senator Jon Tester and journalist Maritsa Georgiou. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including politics, local and national issues, the impact of money in politics, and the need for bipartisan cooperation. The influence of Citizens United on politics and the challenges of addressing climate change a...

The conversation delves into the Minnesota primary politics, record turnout, surprising election results, and the impact of primary turnout. It also explores the challenges and strategies for candidates, analyzes the Republican candidate, discusses the pro-choice Republican candidate, and examines the GOP gubernatorial race. The conversation covers the Minnesota gubernatorial race, the role of lie...

The conversation covers the primary and general elections, including the dynamics of the primary races, the impact of wildfires on the economy, the possibility of a special session, and the competitive US Senate race. It also delves into the challenges and strategies of the candidates, as well as the issues and concerns of voters in different regions of Minnesota. The conversation covers a range o...

The conversation begins with an introduction and background information about the guest, MN Secretary of State Steve Simon. It then delves into the reasons behind Minnesota's high voter turnout, the state's election laws, pro-voter culture, and media coverage of elections. The discussion also covers election administration, recounts, and voter eligibility, including the vouching process. The conve...

The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including Kevin Goodno's political journey, the evolution of the Republican Party, the impact of social media on politics, and the challenges of bipartisan cooperation. It also delves into the dynamics of welfare reform, Medicaid, and long-term care, as well as the influence of third-party candidates in politics. The conversation covers a range of to...

The conversation begins with an introduction of Brian Boyle and to American Promise and its mission to address money in politics. It then delves into the origins of money in politics, the impact of campaign finance reform, the role of the courts, the effort to pass a constitutional amendment, state resolutions, the Montana Plan, and a legal perspective on Citizens United. The conversation continue...

Mary and Tara talk to former White House and renowned attorney, Ty Cobb, about recent Supreme Court decisions, including birthright citizenship and temporary protected status. It also explores the impact of Citizens United on campaign finance and the constitutional interpretation of these issues. The conversation covers topics related to Trump's influence on the Republican party, the impact of Tru...

The conversation explores America's 250th birthday, the impact of President Trump, growing political distrust, populism, primary elections, party platforms, government performance, morality, and deep political distrust. It also explores historical context and lessons from history and digs into our political future and also checks and balances, trust in local government, political sorting and decis...

The conversation delves into the impact of Medicaid fraud in Minnesota, the context and backstory of the issue, political retribution and legal challenges, the disruption and turmoil in disability services, provider experiences with revalidation, collaboration and communication challenges, the federal administration and compliance, fraud investigations and prosecutions, and the lack of understandi...

Mary and Tara talk about the tragic event of June 14, 2025 after finding out about the assassination House Democrat leader, Melissa Hortman and the impact it has had on the state and in political circles. It also highlights the leadership, ambition, and journey of Melissa Hortman, as well as the involvement of Shannon Watson from Majority in the Middle and Lori Higgins of the North Metro Chamber o...

Mary and Tara talk with State Sen. Nick Frentz and former Representative Pat Garofalo about paid family medical leave, exploring various perspectives, political positions, and the impact on education, workforce shortages, immigration, and the labor force. The discussion also highlights the challenges and implications of the program, offering insights into the broader societal and economic landscap...

Mary and Tara talk about Bryan Clapper's viral video success, real estate marketing, and the impact on business growth. It also explores the diversity and depth of housing, strategies for first-time buyers, public policy and housing, and the influence of renovation on policy. The discussion highlights the need for a bipartisan approach to housing policy and the impact of state and federal regulati...

Mary and Tara talk with former State Senator and current lobbyist, Jeff Haden, and former Governor Tim Pawlenty Press Secretary and current PR Pro, Brian McClung about the accomplishments and controversies of the 2026 legislative session, including the impact of the bonding bill and license tab fees, the gun violence prevention efforts, and the challenges in the healthcare system. It also explores...

Mary and Tara talk with former Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner, Jan Malcolm, and HCMC Physician, Tyler Winkelman about the challenges and importance of funding HCMC, highlighting the need for creative solutions and collaborative partnerships to address the crisis. It also emphasizes the significance of HCMC to Minnesota's healthcare landscape and the urgency of finding sustainable fund...

The conversation delves into the bipartisan support for psilocybin legislation and the journey to its current status. It explores the role of research and education, personal experiences, the intersection of traditional and alternative medicine, regulation and licensing, as well as the challenges and process of psilocybin therapy. The conversation covers the topics of psychedelic medicine and heal...

The conversation centers on the evolution of media and politics, the impact of social media on news consumption, and the need for regulation of social media platforms. It explores the changing dynamics of media coverage, the influence of social media on news dissemination, and the challenges of regulating social media to ensure responsible and accurate information sharing. The conversation delves...

The conversation explores the world of Medtech entrepreneurship, exploring the journey of a successful entrepreneur in the industry. It also highlights the impact of the Angel Investor Tax Credit and the challenges of international clinical trials and regulatory processes. Additionally, it discusses the influence of athletics on entrepreneurship and the experiences of a young woman in the Medtech...

The conversation digs into the world of foraging, mushroom hunting, and the creation of a task force to address related issues. It explores bipartisan support, collaboration with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and the legislative coverage of edible plants. The discussion also highlights the task force recommendations, buy-in, and the legislative impact, along with the learning experien...

The conversation covers a range of topics, including his Minneapolis experience during Operation Metro Surge, Minnesota's civic activism, emulating Minnesota's civic engagement, ICE and immigration policies, the national spread of civic sentiment, resistance to mass deportation, the impact of immigration actions, bipartisan interest in immigration impact, political polarization in Minnesota, upcom...

Ty Cobb, a veteran Washington attorney and former White House counsel, shares insights on his experiences and observations related to the Mueller investigation, the state of Minnesota, and the current political climate. He discusses the challenges faced by the U.S. Attorney's Office, the role of the White House counsel, and the impact of political dynamics on the justice system. The conversation d...