Swing Left and the 2020 Elections with Steve Pierson

10/09/20 • 70 min

The clock is ticking... and President Trump knows it. With less than 30 days to go before the 2020 election, we are on the verge of turning the political process back in the direction of equity, honor, truth and justice. With every American life on the line due to the coronavirus pandemic, none of us can afford to sit on the sidelines. Today's guest Steve Pierson, is a leader of the training and media teams with Swing Left and joined Kim to discuss their strategy to increase democratic and progressive power by defeating Trump and looking beyond the presidency to other critical races.

Swing Left is a national organization inspired by the election of Donald Trump in 2016 to support democratic candidates across the U.S. But the conversation reached far beyond these immediate goals to a broader discussion of how we got to this moment in our country and the differences in how black and white people view the events of 2020. It's a must-hear interview with plenty to consider and great opportunities to get involved and do your part now.

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Coronavirus, Substance Use & Recovery with John Magnuson

We are all feeling the stress these days and for many of us it has taken a toll. Whether it's teaching kids from home, trying to work and stay safe or national politics, there are a lot of things on our plates. Sometimes stress can lead people to find new support systems, such as the boom in use of Zoom for all kinds of social activities. Another option that many have leaned on even more heavily is substance use. Consumption of alcohol and other drugs has skyrocketed since the lock down and reports of increased domestic violence are now coming to light. While not everyone will find themselves in trouble, it's important to know what to do if you have concerns about your own use or that of a loved one.

Today's guest is John Magnuson, Executive Director of MARRCH and an expert in the field of substance use disorders and addiction recovery. In this interview, he shares his wealth of experience in helping people determine whether they have an issue that may need more attention. There are so many new support opportunities these days and no need for anyone to feel shame or to face any stigma if they reach out for help. In fact, the field of recovery has evolved significantly in recent years, resulting in a wide range of support options for individuals and their families - many of which started right here in the State of Minnesota.

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Building Change That Lasts with Nieeta Presley

For decades, Nieeta Presley has been building community and making change. As the Executive Director of Aurora/St. Anthony Neighborhood Development Corporation (ASANDC) in St. Paul, Minnesota. She has led numerous programs aimed at empowering people throughout the African American community.

Now, on the eve of her retirement, she spoke with host Kimberly Miller about her organization's accomplishments: most notably the completion of a multi-unit apartment and commercial building that helped transform the corner of Dale and University Avenues. Her story is one of action, neighborhood empowerment and entrepreneurship. It's one that all activists and anyone dreaming of a better future can learn from.