The Blue Dot Podcast

Kenton County Democrats
  • 4.6 (9)
  • Politics

The podcast making sense of Kentucky politics for working families. Get past the political soundbites and dive into the kitchen table issues shaping the Commonwealth—from protecting public education and expanding healthcare to economic growth and good-paying jobs. We bring you straightforward Democratic commentary, local candidate insights, and raw analysis on the decisions that actually impact your daily life.  Brought to you by the Kenton County Democratic Executive Committee. Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode, and join the conversation shaping Kentucky’s future.

  1. Season 2, Episode 76 Trailer ·  Video

    Republican's Threats Exposed, Dietz's PAC Paycheck while Decency is on the Ballot

    Send us Fan Mail With Election Day just four days away, Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl return for the Blue Dot Podcast’s final weekly roundup before November 3. They discuss surging early voter turnout, why Democrats appear to have momentum heading into the election, and why now is the time to vote, not become complacent. The conversation then turns to a series of recent political controversies in Northern Kentucky. Natalie and Brian examine efforts by the Kenton County Republican Party to challenge a grassroots citizens group opposing the Site Readiness Initiative (SRI), arguing that residents should be free to voice concerns about development in their communities. They also discuss Republican criticism of a Campbell County Democratic get-out-the-vote event and what they see as a broader pattern of political attacks and intimidation. The hosts take a closer look at campaign finance in Kentucky House District 65, contrasting grassroots fundraising with large PAC and corporate donations, and explore how outside money continues to shape local races. They also weigh in on negative campaign tactics, national political messaging, and a headline-making controversy from Ohio’s gubernatorial race. As the campaign enters its final days, Natalie and Brian reflect on whether this election has become a referendum on decency, civic engagement, and whose voices are being heard. Their message is simple: make a plan, cast your ballot, and make your voice count.

  2. Oct 23 ·  Video

    Early voting and enthusiasm for Democrats

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Brian talks about the importance of voting, how to make a voting plan, and the impact of midterm elections on local and national policies. He emphasizes the significance of every vote and provides practical tips for voters to participate effectively, as well as talking points that Democratic voters can share to encourage others to participate in exercising their voice.

  3. Oct 22 ·  Video

    Changemaker Conversation: William Whalen Ky House District 64

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast's 2026 Changemaker Candidate Conversation Series, hosts Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl sit down with William Whalen, Democratic candidate for Kentucky House District 64. A fourth-generation union worker, IBEW electrician, and Independence resident, Whalen shares the experiences and values that motivated his decision to run for office. Whalen discusses the importance of listening to constituents, expanding working-class representation in Frankfort, and addressing issues such as healthcare affordability, infrastructure, education, and government accountability. He reflects on how policies affecting organized labor, along with recent statewide ballot initiatives that he believes were ignored by lawmakers, inspired him to enter the race. The conversation explores Whalen's priorities, including improving communication between elected officials and residents through regular town halls, supporting term limits for state legislators, and advocating for policies that strengthen Kentucky's workforce. He emphasizes his commitment to representing all constituents, regardless of political affiliation, and approaching problems with a practical, solutions-oriented mindset. The episode concludes with information about voter engagement, upcoming election dates, and ways residents can connect with the campaign and get involved in the democratic process.

  4. Oct 21 ·  Video

    Candidate Interview: Sarah Cole McIntosh KY State Senate District 36

    Send us Fan Mail Sarah Cole McIntosh is the Democratic candidate for Kentucky State Senate District 36. She joins Brian to make her case for the Senate position in the final days before the midterms.  In this episode, Sarah shares her motivations for running for Kentucky State Senate, discusses the complexities of property tax reform, and explores issues like healthcare, education funding, and housing affordability in Kentucky. Sarah's Republican opponent is an incumbent who has held the Senate seat for 10 years. We're making sure voters have the opportunity to hear directly from the candidates seeking to represent them because informed voters build stronger communities!

    Candidate Interview: Sarah Cole McIntosh KY State Senate District 36

  5. Oct 21 ·  Video

    Changemaker Conversation: Ben Bach Kenton Co Commissioner Dist 2

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast's 2026 Changemakers Candidate Conversation Series, Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl sit down with Ben Bach, Democratic candidate for Kenton County Commissioner in District 2. A lifelong Kenton County resident, cloud engineer, and community advocate, Ben shares the personal experiences and values that inspired him to enter public service for the first time. The conversation explores some of the most pressing issues facing Southern Kenton County, including the controversial Site Readiness Initiative (SRI), housing affordability, smart growth, infrastructure, and government transparency. Ben discusses the importance of ethical leadership, community engagement, and restoring trust between local government and residents. He also outlines his vision for responsible development that balances economic growth with long-term community needs. Throughout the interview, Ben emphasizes listening to constituents, promoting open dialogue, and ensuring that county government works for the people it serves. If you're interested in the future of Kenton County and the local leaders seeking to shape it, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

  6. Oct 20 ·  Video

    Changemaker Conversation: Wilanne Stangel KY House Dist 69

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast's Change Maker Candidate Conversation Series, hosts Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl sit down with Wilann Stangel, Democratic candidate for Kentucky House District 69. A retired educator and library media specialist, Stangle discusses what motivated her to run for office, sharing concerns about the direction of government, the impact of political decisions on everyday Kentuckians, and the importance of restoring responsive leadership. The conversation explores issues affecting Northern Kentucky families, including rising grocery and housing costs, education funding, SNAP benefit reductions, healthcare access, and economic development. Stangle shares her vision for a more connected and accountable state government, emphasizing the need for elected officials who actively engage with their communities and represent the interests of all constituents. The episode also highlights the importance of local elections, voter participation, and civic engagement, with practical information on voting options and upcoming community efforts to encourage voter turnout. Whether you're interested in Kentucky politics, public policy, or learning more about the candidates seeking to represent your community, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

  7. Oct 19 ·  Video

    Candidate Interview - Brant Owens, Campbell County Commissioner District 3

    Send us Fan Mail Brant Owens is the Democratic candidate running for Campbell County Commissioner District 3. He joins Brian to make his case for the County Commissioner office in the final weeks before the midterms.  Brant is a lifelong Campbell County resident who currently and a certified financial planner with over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry. From his time on the campaign trail, Brant has determined that most people don't know what a county commissioner does. His goal is to bring more exposure and transparency to the role and ensure that Campbell County residents are well-informed and have a voice in County affairs.  We're making sure voters have the opportunity to hear directly from the candidates seeking to represent them because informed voters build stronger communities.

    Candidate Interview - Brant Owens, Campbell County Commissioner District 3

  8. Oct 19 ·  Video

    Changemaker Conversation: Stephen Hoffman Magistrate Dist. 1

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast's 2026 Changemakers Candidate Conversation Series, Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl sit down with Stephen Hoffman, Democratic candidate for Kenton County Magistrate/Justice of the Peace in District 1. Known by many in Northern Kentucky as "The Love Doctor," Hoffman shares stories from his decades of service officiating more than 20,000 weddings since his appointment in 1989. He explains the unique role of a magistrate in Kenton County, discusses why the position remains partisan under Kentucky law, and reflects on some of the most meaningful moments of his career, from performing bedside weddings for terminally ill patients to officiating Northern Kentucky's first legal same-sex marriage. Hoffman also recounts unexpected experiences involving working with law enforcement, and advocating for families navigating difficult circumstances. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes his commitment to serving all residents regardless of political affiliation, background, or beliefs.

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4.6
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

The podcast making sense of Kentucky politics for working families. Get past the political soundbites and dive into the kitchen table issues shaping the Commonwealth—from protecting public education and expanding healthcare to economic growth and good-paying jobs. We bring you straightforward Democratic commentary, local candidate insights, and raw analysis on the decisions that actually impact your daily life.  Brought to you by the Kenton County Democratic Executive Committee. Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode, and join the conversation shaping Kentucky’s future.

Information

  • Creator
    Kenton County Democrats
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    125
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Blue Dot Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Blue Dot Podcast

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