Beyond Words

Epizode

• 
  Red & Blue: A GOP View 02.09.2026 37min

  In this conversation, Michael interviews Erin Perrine, a Republican strategist, about her career in politics and the upcoming election. They discuss working on the Hill versus working on campaigns, the strengths and weaknesses of Kamala and Trump, the quick shift in the presidential race from Joe Biden to Kamala Harris, and the challenges of messaging on abortion and immigration. They also touch on the importance of emotions in politics, the likability factor for Kamala Harris, and the upcomi...
• 
  Crisis Point: Anthony Coley on defending Democracy 02.09.2026 26min

  In this conversation, Michael interviews Anthony Coley, a former DOJ and Treasury official, about the current political landscape and the importance of voting. They discuss Kamala Harris's rise in popularity, the strength of the Democratic bench, the threat of a second Trump term, and the need for Democrats to engage with the Republican media ecosystem. They also touch on the role of the DOJ and the importance of preserving voting rights. Overall, the conversation highlights the significance ...
• 
  Michigan Matters 02.09.2026 30min

  Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow discusses the political landscape in Michigan and the impact of the Biden-Harris campaign. She highlights the importance of Michigan in national politics and the fear of losing the state to Republicans. McMorrow also talks about the excitement and hope surrounding the Biden-Harris campaign and the need for a functional two-party system. She emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing and down-ballot races. McMorrow discusses the significance of r...
• 
  Red Echo, Blue Roar: Navigating the 2026 Election 02.09.2026 28min

  In this conversation, Michael interviews Kaivan Shroff, a Democratic political consultant, political commentator and attorney about the 2024 election and the stakes for Democrats. They discuss the dangers of a Trump presidency, the people he surrounds himself with, the meanness of the Republican party, the messaging challenges for Democrats, the role of the media, the influence of money in politics, and the need for Democrats to be more assertive and proactive. They also touch on the challeng...
• 
  Pride in Power: LPAC’s Political Impact 02.09.2026 51min

  Janelle Perez, the executive director of LPAC, discusses the work of LPAC in supporting and electing LGBTQ women and non-binary folks. She shares her personal experience running for office in Florida and the attacks she faced from the Republican party. The conversation also touches on the Republican party's attack on the LGBTQ community, the Don't Say Gay Bill, and the fear-mongering tactics used by Republicans. The discussion expands to the challenges faced by Democrats in Florida, the need ...
• 
  How Young Voters Can Shape the Future and End Trumpism 02.09.2026 46min

  *This episode was recorded prior to the Biden announcement on Sunday. Michael talks with the Head of Next Gen, Christina Tzintzun Ramirez. Next Gen empowers young voters to engage in political process and ensure government responsiveness to the biggest and most diverse generation in American History. The conversation covers a range of topics related to this election, the Biden administration, young voters, and the role of organizers in engaging the electorate. It delves into the challenges an...
• 
  Kurt Bardella, Former Republican now Democratic Strategist says be Loud vs. Trump 02.09.2026 45min

  In this conversation, Kurt Bardella, a democratic strategist and former Republican, talks about his journey into politics, working on Capitol Hill, and his time as press secretary for Congressman Darrell Issa. Bardella is the Creator & Publisher of the Morning Hangover and a contributor to News Nation, LA Times and other media. Bardella is also a country music enthusiast and shares stories from the Academy of Country Music Awards and his love for artists like Chris Stapleton. Michael and ...
• 
  Roy Wood Jr. talks Comedy, Politics, Media & the Future of this Country 02.09.2026 45min

  ROY WOOD JR. is a comedian, an Emmy-nominated documentary producer, a correspondent on Comedy Central’s Emmy-nominated The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, and host of Comedy Central’s award-winning podcast, The Daily Show: Beyond the Scenes. Spring of 2023, Wood guest hosted The Daily Show and headlined the White House Correspondents' Dinner. Support the show
• 
  Debate Performance Anxiety & Keeping the Faith with Michael Starr Hopkins 02.09.2026 34min

  The Presidential Debate is the talk of the moment. Michael is joined by Ally Sammarco, a democratic strategist and ex-Republican, sr. digital editor for LA Magazine and Host of @Americas_Show among other things. Their conversation revolves around the aftermath of the presidential debate and the future of the Democratic Party. They discuss Biden's performance, the need for a conversation about his ability to serve another term, and the challenges Democrats face in winning over voters. They als...
• 
  Antjuan Seawright says the black community and everyone (even Cardi B.) needs to vote. 31.08.2026 44min

  In our era of endless mass shootings, Vanderbilt professor Jonathan Metzl examines America’s deadly obsession with firearms through the lens of a shocking 2018 Waffle House shooting. He delves into the psyche of white male shooters, arguing the carnage stems not from mental illness but toxic racism mixed with gun worship permeating society. As the deaths mount with no policy response, Metzl warns that America approaches an abyss where gunfire replaces democratic principles. He says protests a...
• 
  This election may be Life or Death for Black Americans with Cheyanne Daniels 31.08.2026 1h 1min

  In this conversation, Michael and Cheyanne Daniels, the race and Politics reporter for The Hill and host of The Switch Up podcast, discuss the challenges of covering politics, the importance of black leaders, and the messaging strategies of Democrats. They touch on the media's treatment of black leaders and the need for more authentic and relatable messaging to connect with black voters. She also says this is a crucial election and Black voters need to vote for Democracy. In this conversation...
• 
  Sean Spicer talks Trump, Election, & Media with Michael Starr Hopkins 31.08.2026 1h 2min

  Former Trump press secretary, Sean Spicer, discusses his experience in politics and the changes he has observed in the Republican Party. He reflects on the Trump administration and the impact of Trump's presidency on the political landscape. The conversation also touches on the 2020 election and the events of January 6th. Spicer shares his perspective on Trump's leadership style and his thoughts on Trump's potential candidacy in 2024. The conversation between Sean Spicer and Michael covers a ...
• 
  The Power of the States: Heather Williams of the DLCC 31.08.2026 32min

  Heather Williams, President of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC), discusses the importance of state legislatures in shaping policy and protecting rights. She highlights the role of state legislators in addressing issues such as abortion legislation, gun control, and voting rights. Williams emphasizes the need for Democrats to engage with voters in all communities, including those that may not traditionally support the party. She also emphasizes the importance of staying inv...
• 
  Armed and Unstable : Inside America’s mass shooting crisis (Jonathan Metzl) 31.08.2026 27min

  In our era of endless mass shootings, Vanderbilt professor Jonathan Metzl examines America’s deadly obsession with firearms through the lens of a shocking 2018 Waffle House shooting. He delves into the psyche of white male shooters, arguing the carnage stems not from mental illness but toxic racism mixed with gun worship permeating society. As the deaths mount with no policy response, Metzl warns that America approaches an abyss where gunfire replaces democratic principles. He says protests a...
• 
  Pathways to Progress: Cristina Tzintzún Ramirez - President of NextGen America 31.08.2026 49min

  In this episode, Cristina Tzintzún Ramirez, the President of NextGen America, discusses the political power of young people and the importance of engaging voters of color. She emphasizes the need for the Democratic Party to invest in communities of color and tailor their messages to the diverse subsets within these communities. Ramirez also addresses the complexities of immigration and the misconceptions surrounding Dreamers. She criticizes Governor Greg Abbott for using immigration as a poli...
• 
  Elie Mystal: From SNL to the Supreme Court – A Journey Through Justice 31.08.2026 1h 1min

  In this episode, Michael Starr Hopkins interviews Elie Mystal, the justice correspondent and host of the legal podcast, Contempt of the Court. They discuss various topics related to the courts and the political landscape. Elie shares his experience of being on SNL and then dives into the issue of judicial appointments. He highlights the failure of Democrats to keep up with Trump's pace in appointing judges and the impact it has on the rights and freedoms of Americans. Elie also discusses the ...
• 
  Shaping the Sunshine State: Nikki Fried on Florida's Political Landscape and Future 31.08.2026 31min

  In this episode, Michael Starr Hopkins interviews Nikki Fried, the Florida Democratic Party Chair and former Florida Agriculture Secretary. They discuss Fried's transition from private citizen to public figure, her experience working with Governor Ron DeSantis, and the challenges faced by Florida Democrats. Fried also shares her advocacy for the Groveland Four and her stance on issues like marijuana legalization and gun ownership. She emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing and uni...
• 
  BREAKING NEWS!!!! Desantis Drops Out: Marc Caputo of The Messenger 31.08.2026 26min

  In this episode, Michael Starr Hopkins interviews Mark Caputo, a national political reporter, about Ron DeSantis' exit from the 2026 Republican primary campaign. They discuss the reasons for DeSantis' campaign failure, including his awkwardness and treatment of people. They also explore DeSantis' current position as governor and his potential future as a lame duck governor. The conversation touches on the lessons learned from losing a presidential race and the vulnerabilities of Joe Biden in ...
• 
  Democratic Crossroads: The Unpredictable Journey of Today's Political Landscape (Jim Kessler of Third Way) 31.08.2026 48min

  Dive into a riveting episode where Michael Starr Hopkins and Jim Kessler take you on a journey through the heart of modern American politics. This episode, titled "Democratic Crossroads: The Unpredictable Journey of Today's Political Landscape," is a rollercoaster ride of insights, analyses, and bold predictions. Listen as they unravel the complex tapestries of Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema's political careers, showcasing how these two figures mirror the seismic shifts within the Democratic ...
• 
  Unmasking No Labels with Philip Shulman 31.08.2026 34min

  Philip Schulman from American Bridge 21st Century joins the host, Michael Star-Hopkins, to discuss No Labels and its transformation over the years. They delve into the origins of No Labels and its initial goal of uniting Republicans and Democrats. However, they highlight how No Labels has shifted its agenda and become a grifting Republican operation. The conversation explores No Labels' funders, financial practices, and connections to shady figures. They also discuss the potential impact of N...