Democracy is hanging by a thread, but our work as citizens is about being resilient and persistent so that together, we can build the future we want to see. That’s why every week we bring you The Practivist Pod — the practice of activism made practical.If you’re looking for ways to get engaged, or just looking for ways to stay sane… we want to help you navigate what comes next. Hosted by former candidate for CA Assembly and Executive Director of Blue Wave California, Steve Pierson, and grassroots organizer and Executive Director of Field Team 6, Jason Berlin. Each week on The Practivist Pod, we’ll share important conversations with changemakers, give you practical ways to make an impact, have some fun, and inspire hope.This is more than a podcast — it&#39;s a place for our community to grow our practice of advocacy for justice, equity, and progress. Action is the best antidote for anxiety, and joy is a revolutionary act, so subscribe to The Practivist Pod today.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/10/27/3/6c717177-5290-44a6-9fe5-fd091d0dabcb_practivist_mendoza.mp3

There are only 4 days left before the midterms! To get you motivated and inspired to get out there and knock on doors this weekend, we are dropping our last interview from our Blue Wave Nation Live! event last Friday, and it’s a great one! In case you missed it, the event featured MSW media’s own Allison Gill, XM Radio’s own, John Fugelsang and Sexy Liberal Network’s own Stephanie Miller, interviews with 4 of our dynamic Congressional candidates, Senator Alex Padilla, and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi.Of course there is still time to chip in to our Blue Wave Nation Impact Fund and help these candidates over GOTV weekend at: BlueWaveNation.org!Today you will literally get your marching orders from a former Marine drill instructor who is going to bring strong leadership to Arizona’s 6th Congressional district. When we think of how we want Democrats to be fighters, look no further than this single mom fighting to flip this must win seat, Joanna Mendoza.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a><a href="http://bluewavenation.org/" rel="nofollow">Blue Wave Nation</a><a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">MSW - Blue Wave Nation Impact Fund</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Marching Orders with Joanna Mendoza

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/10/28/19/cfb50069-3a0d-4d2d-83f4-f6c312959dfc_practivist_99_marni_von_wilpert.mp3

Fascists are losing around the world, Trump and MAGA are desperately trying and failing to mess with our elections, and we are heading into GOTV weekend. It’s our last chance to reach out to everyone we can and make sure they vote! And today we will hear another interview from our Blue Wave Nation Live! Event last Friday, this time from the San Diego City Councilmember who is going to flip CA48, Marni Von Wilpert!<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a><a href="http://mobilize.us/" rel="nofollow">Mobilize.us</a> <a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">MSW - Blue Wave Nation Impact Fund</a><a href="http://fieldteamsix.org/" rel="nofollow">FieldTeamSix.org</a> <a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Flipping the House with Marni Von Wilpert

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The countdown continues with just 6 days left before the midterms! We are dropping an interview every day from our Blue Wave Nation Live! event last Friday. In case you missed it, we were joined by amazing leaders in progressive media including MSW media’s own Allison Gill, XM Radio’s own, John Fugelsang and Sexy Liberal Network’s own Stephanie Miller!The event also featured interviews with 4 of our dynamic Congressional candidates, Senator Alex Padilla, and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi. All of which we are sharing with you here this week.Of course this is in support of our Blue Wave Nation Impact Fund and we hope you will contribute to these candidates right now to help them in their final push at: BlueWaveNation.org!Today you will hear from an Emergency room physician and former sideline doctor for the New York Jets who is running a must win toss up race to flip Arizona’s 1st Congressional district, Dr. Amish Shah.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a><a href="http://bluewavenation.org/" rel="nofollow">Blue Wave Nation</a><a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">MSW - Blue Wave Nation Impact Fund</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Taking the Field with Dr. Amish Shah

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/10/26/20/35c29323-0538-4e1f-b3e3-5970caa8dc31_practivist_villegas.mp3

With just 7 days left before the election, we’ve got another interview from our Blue Wave Nation Live! event last Friday. In case you missed it, we were joined by amazing leaders in progressive media including Allison Gill, John Fugelsang and Stephanie Miller, and the event featured interviews with 4 of our dynamic Congressional candidates, and Senator Alex Padilla, and the always inspiring Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi.This was all in support of the MSW - Blue Wave Nation Impact Fund. Donations that go directly to 4 key Senate races and 4 key House races to make sure we do all we can to win back Congress! You can donate to that fund right now at BlueWaveNation.org!If you missed our first two interviews with Senator Alex Padilla and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, I hope you will check those out. They are definitely worth your time! But right now you’ll hear from a very impressive young progressive candidate running in one of the most competitive races in the country. CA22 really is one of our toughest flips and despite the millions of dollars that republicans are pouring into this race, we can win it if we all help Randy Villegas out in this final push.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a><a href="http://bluewavenation.org/" rel="nofollow">Blue Wave Nation</a><a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">MSW - Blue Wave Nation Impact Fund</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Saving Our Healthcare with Randy Villegas

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/10/26/3/0ff9a710-9a3e-428e-b676-0b2fe02d5afb_practivist_pelosi.mp3

We are continuing our release of interviews from our Blue Wave Nation Live! Event last Friday, October 23rd. In case you missed it, we were joined by amazing leaders in progressive media including Allison Gill, John Fugelsang and Stephanie Miller, and the event featured interviews with 4 of our dynamic Congressional candidates, and Senator Alex Padilla, and the always inspiring Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi.This was all in support of the MSW - Blue Wave Nation Impact Fund. Donations that go directly to 4 key Senate races and 4 key House races to make sure we do all we can to win back Congress!With just 8 days left before the election, we are releasing an interview from the event every day to get you inspired, fired up and ready to go. Yesterday featured one of my own Senators here in California, Alex Padilla. Today you will hear my interview with the GOAT! The greatest Speaker in the History of our Country, Nancy Pelosi<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="http://bluewavenation.org/" rel="nofollow">BlueWaveNation.org</a><a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">MSW - Blue Wave Nation Impact Fund</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

The Three Nos with Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/10/25/2/4b8068d5-4dcd-48e6-95ad-6531a5d28fe8_practivist_padilla_94.mp3

Last Friday October 23rd, Steve had the great honor of hosting Blue Wave Nation Live! We were joined by amazing progressive media voices including Allison Gill, John Fugelsang and Stephanie Miller, and the event featured interviews with 4 of our dynamic Congressional candidates, and Senator Alex Padilla, and the always inspiring Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi.This was all in support of the MSW - Blue Wave Nation Impact Fund. Donations to that fund go directly to: 4 Senate races: Mary Peltola in Alaska, Troy Jackson in Maine, and Sherrod Brown in Ohio… and 4 House races: Randy Villegas in CA22, Marni Von Wilpert in CA48, Dr. Amish Shah in AZ01, and Joanna Mendoza in AZ06.With just 9 days left before the election, we are releasing an interview from the event every day to get you inspired, fired up and ready to go. Today we are starting with one of my Senators here in California!<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="http://bluewavenation.org/" rel="nofollow">BlueWaveNation.org</a><a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">MSW - Blue Wave Nation Impact Fund</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Winning the Senate with Senator Alex Padilla

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/10/21/23/22adb895-13b7-459e-a950-53c9981f9457_practivist_94.mp3

With less than two weeks before the midterms, things have never looked bleaker for Trump and the Republicans. Races keep moving in Democrats favor but control of the House and the Senate still remains within the margin of effort. As Trump and his corrupt cronies do everything they can to generate a cloud of chaos around this election, we must do everything we can to make this a blowout win that is too big to rig!<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="https://www.mobilize.us/blue%20wave%20california/event/1069138/" rel="nofollow">MSW Blue Wave Nation LIVE This Friday</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Clouds of Chaos

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/10/14/22/b8cc8fed-8b27-432c-9674-92359101fcc1_practivist_93.mp3

We’ve got 19 days before the midterms! Trump is doing everything that he can to distract from his unprecedented corruption and historic low approval, while Republican candidates are doing everything they can to distance themselves from Trump’s stink. We break down which of the October distractions you should be paying attention to, and give you your weekly action items to make sure that we make this election too big to rig!<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="https://www.nokings.org/" rel="nofollow">No Kings Vote Early</a> *This Saturday<a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">National Impact Fund</a><a href="http://mobilize.us/" rel="nofollow">Mobilize.us</a> <a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Nothing to See Here…

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/10/7/23/487f9ab2-81e0-43a0-ba4e-a54cc78481cc_practivist_92_jiggy_and_kate.mp3

What does actually influence our decisions? And most importantly right now, how can we effectively communicate around the midterm election to make sure we win? To answer these questions we are thrilled to welcome two foremost experts in this field. They have joined forces to launch a communications project called, “Feelings Over Facts: Embracing an emotions-first narrative strategy” in collaboration with Innovating for the Public Good.Dr. Jiggy Geronimo is a former neuroscientist turned social justice advocate and is the Founder and Principal of JG Insights. Kate Catherall is the founder and CEO of Slow Clap, a consultancy that partners with campaigns and nonprofits to develop public engagement strategy, craft narratives, and build movements.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="http://feelingsoverfacts.org/" rel="nofollow">feelingsoverfacts.org</a>﻿<a href="http://innovatingforpublicgood/" rel="nofollow">Innovatingforpublicgood</a>Check your voter registration: <a href="https://substack.com/redirect/42e5cfc8-5c1d-4f64-bf2f-fd88e005c20b?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">vote.org</a>Vote early!: <a href="https://substack.com/redirect/486885c0-e68e-4961-af82-19c38296fe94?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">No Kings</a> and<a href="https://substack.com/redirect/03f8def0-fadf-4b6a-9386-3b258d5ad5f3?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow"> Vote Early Day</a>Take an <a href="https://substack.com/redirect/dfbc486b-de2e-4357-ae73-91128922a2df?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">election holiday</a> and:Sign up to be a poll worker: <a href="https://substack.com/redirect/4efdd3b9-e5a0-4a6e-a816-fa8eb5800f19?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">Power the polls</a>Sign up to be a poll watcher: <a href="https://substack.com/redirect/255e1ef1-570a-40d4-9fc9-e869d7b538da?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">Election Protection Poll watcher</a>Sign up to give rides to the polls: <a href="https://substack.com/redirect/de8bf615-1a83-4a0a-90c2-78af90aa9ed3?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">Ride2Vote</a>Sign up for a dance party at the polls: <a href="https://substack.com/redirect/39a44f3f-747e-4872-8120-75226dfb5e20?j=eyJ1IjoiMjVnNnA0In0.3OV952c8MJFPEF8n9dc2gY88ArMukfy2HIe9I6hjXpQ" rel="nofollow">Party at the Polls</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Feelings Over Facts with Dr. Jiggy Geronimo and Kate Catherall

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/10/5/22/9cda4223-1c53-4f04-84b4-6b65e5a6fff8_practivist_91_tim_fulerton.mp3

It’s no secret that we are passionate about alternative media and the dire need for Democrats to invest in and support creators who are seeking to disrupt the stranglehold that the right has in this space. We are woefully underinvested and it shows. Of the top 400 political podcasts, 300 of them are right wing. We are also way behind in supporting cultural influencers who share our values and can be a counterweight to the dangerous and destructive MAGA voices that send people down wormholes filled with conspiracies, misogyny, and hate.The answer to this is pretty simple. Support independent journalism that is dedicated to reporting the truth without corporate intervention, invest in more progressive voices to feed the algorithm an alternative to the hateful and divisive content on the right, and give all these creators and influencers the tools and support to help their content breakthrough and get more attention.This week Steve speaks with someone who is seeking to do all of that and more. Tim Fullerton started what is likely the first non-profit social media account ever (a MySpace account for Oxfam America in 2005), ran part of the email team on Obama’s first presidential campaign, built one of the most popular digital programs in the United States Government, worked digital campaigns at Everytown for Gun Safety, was the Chief Digital Officer for the State of New York, and Vice President of Content at WeWork. Now Tim is a co-founder of Find Out Media and the co-host of the Find Out Podcast.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://wearefindout.com/" rel="nofollow">wearefindout.com</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Finding Out with Tim Fullerton

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/30/20/71ea82ac-5037-43fd-987e-09f136845d3c_practivist_90.mp3

Today we are one month away from the midterms and Republicans are flailing through the final stretch. Jack Smith testified in the Senate, and reminded us all of Trump&#39;s crimes, and the newly launched government chatbot is reminding us all of Trump’s lies. And Americans don’t need reminding, but in a refreshing twist, Trump himself said out loud that he was a shitty president!<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="http://mobilize.us/" rel="nofollow">mobilize.us</a> Donate: <a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Flailing and Failing Republicans

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/28/18/10684f22-8f85-4604-8824-046f4cd2d7fe_practivist_89_connor_leahy.mp3

We’ve all been watching the rapid development of AI and while it is now ever present in our lives, we’ve been worried about job losses, deep fakes and disinformation, intellectual property breaches, its effect on the creative community and so on. But in recent weeks, there have been even more existential concerns about the rapid development of AI that has led all of the AI CEO’s to call for International regulation and slowdown of development. So today we are going to dive deeper into what is really happening with an expert who has been sounding the alarm for years.Connor Lay-He is the US Executive Director of ControlAI and a leading voice on AI. He was the founder of EleutherAI, a community that built the first open-source Large Language Models, and the AI safety startup Conjecture. He currently also runs the humanist volunteer group,<a href="https://www.torchbearer.community/" rel="nofollow"> </a><a href="https://www.torchbearer.community/" rel="nofollow">Torchbearer Community</a>. He is an expert on risks from advanced AI who has appeared on Fox News, CNN, and BBC and his commentary has been featured in The Washington Post, Financial Times, TIME, Axios, and more.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://controlai.org/" rel="nofollow">controlai.org</a><a href="https://www.torchbearer.community/" rel="nofollow">Torchbearer Community</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Safeguarding AI with Connor Leahy

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/24/0/e509d2f8-a602-4cfe-950b-2c0ceede77e8_practivist_88.mp3

With 40 days until the midterms there is so much to talk about. A bombshell Susan Collins corruption scandal, another unhinged ICE shooting in Texas, Trump’s ever sinking approval ratings, and his authoritarian press pool purge. But there is a lot of hope and a lot of work for us to do to make sure we build an undeniable midterm rout! We will tell you how you can help make it so!<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="http://nokings.org/" rel="nofollow">Nokings.org</a> Donate <a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave</a> Volunteer: <a href="http://mobilize.us/" rel="nofollow">Mobilize.us</a> <a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

All Gas, No Brakes!

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/22/2/5dad20f7-78d2-439c-9912-a94dbea1df18_practivist_87_emma_brown.mp3

We are so grateful for all of the leaders in the gun violence prevention space that keep moving us forward and making progress and we are honored to be joined by one of those leaders today. After a distinguished and prolific career working on Democratic campaigns and organizing, Emma Brown became the executive director of GIFFORDS in January 2024. She oversees the organization’s work to save lives from gun violence through shifting culture, changing policies, and challenging injustice.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://giffords.org/" rel="nofollow">giffords.org</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Ending Gun Violence with Emma Brown

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/16/23/3d7ad9bb-55ec-403a-80ef-13134b2520fa_practivist_86.mp3

Today we have 47 days until the midterm elections that will truly decide the fate of our American democratic experience. Democrats have the wind at our back and the Trump regime is as popular as a sewer rat. But to overcome the Republican’s desperate efforts to stay in power we will need every bit of effort we can muster to build an undeniable victory. We will tell you how we can make it too big to rig! <a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">MSW Blue Wave Victory Fund</a><a href="http://indivisible.org/" rel="nofollow">Indivisible.org</a> <a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Too Big To Rig!

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/14/22/4d609c96-7525-474d-94ed-42e35c0df7f0_practivist_85_leah_greenberg.mp3

From the beginning of his presidency in 2016 there have been very few people who have been as effective in organizing people power to stand up to the Trump regime than today’s guest. Once again, to meet this moment, Indivisible is taking the lead in organizing the largest nationwide voter protection campaign in our history.Leah Greenberg is the co-founder and co-Executive Director of Indivisible. She has been featured as one of TIME 100’s Most Influential People, included on GQ’s 50 Most Powerful People in Trump’s Washington, and ranked #2 on the Politico 50 list of top thinkers, doers and visionaries transforming American politics. She is here to talk about how you can join this historic fight and make sure that all of our votes are counted this November.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://indivisible.org/" rel="nofollow">indivisible.org</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve PiersonProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

No Kings: Vote Early! with Leah Greenberg

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/2/18/bb71f4d8-cd69-496b-a681-1df344057b75_practivist_84.mp3

We are 61 days away from the most important election of our lives and while we have the momentum, the Trump regime and his enablers in the postal service are doing everything they can to disenfranchise our vote. Today we are going to talk about how we fight back and make sure we win with an indisputable blowout.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mswbluewave" rel="nofollow">Blue Wave MSW Impact Fund</a><a href="https://indivisible.org/campaigns/our-vote/" rel="nofollow">Indivisible Hands Off our Vote</a><a href="https://www.fieldteam6.org/" rel="nofollow">Fieldteam6.org</a><a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Aloha Midterm

Aloha Midterms

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/19/20/e5590af1-654f-4e4b-baf0-e6dfe84a26e1_practivist_83.mp3

Today Trump’s grift keeps getting exposed, he keeps losing in court and his popularity continues to fall to historic lows. And on the 106th anniversary of the 19th amendment being ratified, we talk about how we can continue to protect our vote and build the Blue Wave we need in November.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="https://indivisible.org/campaigns/our-vote/" rel="nofollow">indivisible.org</a><a href="http://mobilize.us/" rel="nofollow">Mobilize.us</a> <a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Hands Off Our Vote

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/13/2/0f130d02-92e9-49ce-b528-cb2c4b2e0708_practivist_82.mp3

Today while Trump is hiding in a catering van, we talk about the lives he continues to put at risk both here and abroad. But the midterms are coming and despite his best efforts to disenfranchise voters, we talk about how you can help us make it the undeniable blowout win we need in November!<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a>Take Action!: <a href="http://mobilize.us/" rel="nofollow">Mobilize.us</a> <a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Building the Blowout

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/5/21/cff94513-eafb-4e72-8749-019b36d4f6b1_practivist_81.mp3

Today we’ve got a huge progressive victory in Michigan in a very close senate race with results that will send pundits punditing all over the Democratic party. So we will try not to do that but also… we are going to talk about it all… Also, with just less than 90 days to go, Trump’s approval rating hits another historic low as he craps his pants right into the midterms.<a href="https://linktr.ee/StevePierson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZadAazN9PKHFfi0V25yqq1uJwdmZXI2wAyI1sBWVHYI21x8iyuaLqQY38_aem_z95DcrjtaeDSf67X1r5sGw" rel="nofollow">Steve Linktree</a><a href="https://linktr.ee/jasonberlin" rel="nofollow">Jason Linktree</a><a href="http://mobilize.us/" rel="nofollow">Mobilize.us</a> <a href="http://www.practivistpod.com/" rel="nofollow">www.practivistpod.com</a>Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason BerlinProduced by Steve Pierson and Trudi RothTitle Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Practivist Progressive Progress

The Practice of Activism Made Practical

Democracy is hanging by a thread, but our work as citizens is about being resilient and persistent so that together, we can build the future we want to see. That’s why every week we bring you The Practivist Pod — the practice of activism made practical.

If you’re looking for ways to get engaged, or just looking for ways to stay sane… we want to help you navigate what comes next. Hosted by former candidate for CA Assembly and Executive Director of Blue Wave California, Steve Pierson, and grassroots organizer and Executive Director of Field Team 6, Jason Berlin. Each week on The Practivist Pod, we’ll share important conversations with changemakers, give you practical ways to make an impact, have some fun, and inspire hope.

This is more than a podcast — it's a place for our community to grow our practice of advocacy for justice, equity, and progress. Action is the best antidote for anxiety, and joy is a revolutionary act, so subscribe to The Practivist Pod today.