The Foolish Optimist with Amy McDonald

Amy McDonald
  • 5.0 (7)
  • POLITICS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

I’m Amy McDonald, and I am on the hunt for the next generation of leaders, both in the ballot boxes and the teams behind them. On The Foolish Optimist, you’ll find interviews with candidates running for office in the 2025 and 2026 elections and beyond. But we also speak with civilians working behind the scenes to make elections go. You’ll find tidbits on how to communicate effectively, how neuroscience fits into campaigns, and what you can do with your current skills to help get quality candidates elected.

  1. 2D AGO

    The Foolish Optimist: William Marks for Texas CD 25

    Texas-25 Candidate William Marks on Book Bans, Voter Suppression, and Congress Ethics   Host Amy McDonald interviews William Marks, a 22-year-old Navy combat veteran and Democrat running for Texas’s 25th Congressional District against incumbent Roger Williams. Marks discusses Texas gerrymandering and voter suppression, says recent redistricting made the race more competitive, and argues the district needs higher turnout. He lays out a platform focused on affordability, expanding healthcare, breaking up monopolies, and ethics reforms such as banning congressional stock trading, ending the lobbying revolving door, overturning Citizens United, and pursuing term limits. Marks also recounts organizing a coalition that helped overturn a Trump administration book ban at the U.S. Naval Academy and restore 381 books, and directs listeners to volunteer, donate, and find events via williammarks.com.   Download the Civic App in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store for all of your politics needs.    00:00 Welcome to the Foolish Optimist Podcast 00:43 Introducing William Marks 02:00 William Marks' Motivation to Run 03:29 Gerrymandering in Texas 07:54 Challenges of Voter Suppression 11:33 Campaign Strategies and Grassroots Efforts 25:35 Book Banning and Advocacy 30:21 The Power of Collective Action 31:34 Affordability in Texas 33:07 Breaking Up Monopolies 35:22 Corporate Influence and Consumer Protection 40:32 Reforming the Political System 45:48 Economic Inequality and Corporate Welfare 50:33 Supporting Small Businesses 54:40 Community Engagement and Voting 55:18 Rapid Fire Questions

    1h 3m

  2. FEB 11

    The Foolish Optimist: Kat Weiland for West Virginia State House

    Advocating for Change in West Virginia: A Conversation with Kat Weiland   Follow Along with Kat's Campaign at Kat.Weiland.For.WV.House   Download the Civic App in the App Store or Google Play Store for all of your needs.   Host Amy McDonald welcomes Kat Weiland, a candidate running for the West Virginia House of Delegates, District 17, on The Foolish Optimist Podcast. Weiland, a teacher, mother, and native Appalachian, discusses her political stances, including being pro-union, pro-public education, and anti-school voucher programs. The conversation touches on a variety of issues including public education, state insurance, and the struggles of rural infrastructure in West Virginia. Weiland shares her personal motivations, rooted in her father's life experiences and her own journey back to her hometown. The episode delves into her campaign goals, the need for bipartisan solutions on issues like road maintenance and childcare, and the economic struggles faced by many in the state. Weiland also discusses the importance of vocational training and the unique cultural aspects of West Virginia. 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 01:58 Why Kat is Running for Office 02:29 West Virginia's Political Landscape 03:27 Challenges in Education and Insurance 09:13 Roads and Infrastructure Issues 13:55 Public Education and Voucher Programs 17:47 Personal Stories and Motivations 19:29 Minimum Wage and Economic Challenges 22:29 The Impact of Travel on Brain Chemistry 22:54 Scholarship Fund and Application Fees 24:22 Teaching Journey from West Virginia to Texas 26:25 Vocational Training and Popular Trades 31:03 The Beauty and Culture of West Virginia 32:24 Rapid Fire Questions

    42 min

  3. FEB 4

    The Foolish Optimist: Blythe Potter for Indiana Secretary of State

    The Road to Indiana's Secretary of State: A Discussion with Blythe Potter   Follow along with Blythe's campaign https://www.blythepotter.com/   Download the Civic App in the google play store or Apple App Store   Host Amy McDonald welcomes Blythe Potter to The Foolish Optimist podcast to discuss her candidacy for Indiana Secretary of State in 2026. Blythe is an Army Military Corps veteran, a small business owner, and a community organizer. The conversation covers the importance of civic engagement, voter turnout issues in Indiana, and the need for transparent and accessible election information. Blythe shares her vision for making the Secretary of State role more service-oriented and streamlined, highlighting her plans to improve voter turnout, facilitate more accessible voting processes, and keep citizens informed and engaged. The episode also touches on the importance of diversity in political representation and the various challenges faced by the Democratic Party. Additionally, they discuss Blythe’s military background and how it influenced her political activism and candidacy. The podcast emphasizes the potential for grassroots efforts to bring about significant change in Indiana's political landscape.   00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:44 Guest Introduction: Blythe Potter 01:32 Blythe Potter's Campaign and Vision 02:27 Challenges in Indiana's Voting System 04:19 Diversity in Politics 06:33 Role of Secretary of State in Indiana 11:18 Voter Purging Issues 13:58 Political Climate and Activism 15:23 Millennials and Political Engagement 20:26 Economic Challenges and Layoffs 21:54 Debating Political Arguments 22:25 The Importance of Civic Discourse 25:03 Challenges in Voter Engagement 31:28 Barriers to Voting 37:06 The Role of Activism 40:41 Personal Insights and Reflections 43:24 Conclusion and Contact Information

    44 min

  4. JAN 28

    The Foolish Optimist: Ashley Bell Running for NC’s 10th Congressional District

    Finding New Leaders and Standing Your Ground: A Conversation with Ashley Bell   Host Amy McDonald of The Foolish Optimist podcast sits down with Ashley Bell, a candidate for the United States House of Representatives in North Carolina's 10th Congressional District. The discussion covers Bell's background as a public school teacher, physician's associate, and educator, as well as her commitment to expanding healthcare access, strengthening public education, and protecting reproductive freedom. Bell shares her views on uncompromising stances in politics, especially regarding healthcare, and the political shift she experienced alongside her career in healthcare. They also discuss the unique challenges faced by North Carolina's 10th District, voter engagement strategies, and the impact of gerrymandering and voter suppression. The episode concludes with Bell's thoughts on the blue wave in upcoming elections and highlights her campaign's focus on addressing affordability and healthcare issues. 00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks 00:35 Welcome to the Foolish Optimist Podcast 00:52 Introducing Ashley Bell 03:09 Challenges in North Carolina Healthcare 04:24 Medicare for All Discussion 08:21 Personal Stories and Healthcare System Critique 20:45 North Carolina's 10th District Overview 23:59 Upcoming Primary and Election Details 24:09 Unexpected Primary Competition 24:27 The Only Woman in the Race 45:06 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

    45 min

  5. JAN 26

    The Foolish Optimist: Bryan Maxwell for US Senate in Illinois

    Grassroots Politics and Anti-War Advocacy with Dr. Bryan Maxwell   Follow Dr Maxwell's campaign at Maxwell4Senate.com   Host Amy McDonald welcomes Dr. Bryan Maxwell, an anti-war candidate running for the US Senate in Illinois, on The Foolish Optimist podcast. Bryan shares his views on the intersection of climate change and foreign policy, highlighting the need to reduce global militarism for meaningful environmental action. They discuss Bryan's background as an environmental engineer and community organizer, touching on his strong stance on Medicare for all and taxing the rich. The pair also engage in a heartfelt conversation about Bryan's dedication to his dog and the importance of grassroots political movements. Bryan emphasizes the need to get money out of politics, end congressional stock trading, and address public health crises like housing and affordability, wrapping up with a call for public support for his campaign. 00:00 Bryan Maxwell 00:19 Introduction and Host Welcome 00:36 Guest Introduction: Dr. Bryan Maxwell 01:22 Bryan's Eventful Week and Dog Story 03:08 Discussing Bryan's Senate Run and Anti-War Stance 04:39 Climate Change and Foreign Policy 08:07 Money in Politics and Grassroots Campaigns 14:10 US Foreign Policy and War Machine 21:49 Sanctions and Their Impact 24:48 Cultural Differences and Community Values 25:52 Surprising Differences in Money Transfer Systems 26:34 Challenges of Running a Grassroots Campaign 27:54 Connecting with Student Groups and Farmers 28:53 Sustainable Agriculture and Economic Stability 30:53 Addressing Affordability Issues in Illinois 32:19 Proposals for Economic Relief 39:09 Confronting Political Challenges 43:13 Rapid Fire Questions 47:59 Closing Remarks and Campaign Information

    49 min

  6. JAN 21

    The Foolish Optimist: Candice Duvieihl, Alabama’s Fifth District

    Dr. Candice Duvieihl and Her Campaign for Alabama's 5th Congressional District Follow along with Candice's campaign at https://www.candiceduvieilhforcongress.com/   Get the Civic app in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store for your reps needs. Host Amy McDonald welcomes Dr. Candice Duvieihl to the Foolish Optimist Podcast to discuss her campaign for the US House of Representatives Democratic Primary in Alabama's 5th Congressional District. Dr. Duvieihl shares her motivations rooted in her working-class background and highlights her qualifications as a government accounting expert and policy analyst. The conversation covers a wide range of topics including the importance of public education, community safety, affordable housing, and the critical need for infrastructure improvements. Dr. Duvieihl also discusses the economic challenges faced by the working class, the unethical practices of corporations, and the necessity for consumer protections. Throughout the episode, the focus remains on empowering every day Alabamians over corporate interests, and the need for authentic, accountable leadership in government. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome 00:34 Introducing Dr. Candice: A Champion for Working Families 02:09 Candice's Background and Motivation for Running 03:06 The Importance of Government and Public Administration 05:21 Challenges and Privatization in Public Services 12:26 Education and Trade Skills: Investing in the Future 19:14 Political Authenticity and Voter Engagement 26:54 Government Accountability and Corporate Influence 30:21 Corporate Impact on Local Infrastructure 31:16 The Importance of Public Administration 31:53 Challenges with Housing Developments 32:30 Breaking the Cycle of Shortsighted Planning 33:50 Affordable Housing and Commuting Issues 34:51 Traffic and Public Transit Concerns 36:32 Alabama's Public Transportation Fund 37:23 Accountability in Government Spending 37:57 The Alabama Prison System Crisis 39:15 Historical Context of Prisons in the South 41:41 Personal Anecdotes and Road Trips 45:09 Affordability Crisis and Consumer Protections 51:38 Small Business and Government Contracts 54:36 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

    1h 1m

  7. JAN 14

    The Foolish Optimist: Hallie Shoffner running for US Senate in Arkansas

    Reviving the American Dream: A Conversation with Senate Candidate Hallie Shoffner   Follow along with Hallie's campaign at her website or on her socials:   https://www.hallieshoffner.com/ HallieShoffner across socials   Host Amy McDonald welcomes Hallie Shoffner, a sixth-generation Arkansan farmer running for the US Senate in Arkansas, to the Foolish Optimist podcast. Hallie Shoffner discusses her background, from growing up on her family's farm to pursuing higher education and eventually returning home to manage the farm. She shares her frustrations with the current political and economic systems that led her to run for office. Hallie Shoffner and Amy McDonald discuss a variety of issues including the farm crisis, healthcare, social services, the importance of unions, and the impact of corporate policies on everyday Americans. Hallie Shoffner emphasizes the need for systemic change and the potential for Arkansas to lead in food security and economic reform.    00:21 Welcome to the Foolish Optimist Podcast 00:39 Introducing Hallie Shoffner: A Sixth Generation Arkansan Farmer 02:57 Hallie's Journey: From Farm to Senate Run 05:28 The Harsh Realities of Farming in Arkansas 07:47 The Economic Crisis and Its Impact on Arkansan Families 12:09 The Need for Policy Change and Investment in Food Security 15:16 The Disconnect Between Politicians and Real People 28:49 The Disconnect in Congress 29:33 Need for New Legislation 31:50 Independent Voters in Arkansas 33:17 Strategies to Increase Voter Turnout 35:49 Challenges Faced by Gen Z 37:35 The Impact of Social Media and Misinformation 38:49 Digital Bill of Rights 40:03 Union Support and Workers' Rights 46:19 Issues with Voucher Programs 48:16 Support for First Responders and Teachers 50:30 Rapid Fire Questions

    54 min

  8. JAN 12

    The Foolish Optimist: Robert Hunter Running in Alabama State HD 28

    The Foolish Optimist Podcast: Transforming Alabama's 28th District with Robert Hunter   Follow Robert's Campaign at Vote4RobertHunter.com    Download the Civic App in the Google Play Store or Apple Store to have your representatives information in the palm of your hand.   Host Amy McDonald introduces Robert Louis Hunter, a community organizer running for the Alabama State House District 28. Hunter discusses his vision for addressing economic and social issues in his community, emphasizing the need for better representation and policies that support working-class individuals. He highlights his community involvement, including his role in running the Gadsden free store and organizing Gadsden Pride events. Hunter outlines specific legislative goals such as rent stabilization, Medicaid expansion, and improving environmental protections. He also shares his plans for engaging with potential constituents through door-knocking and community events. Hunter expresses his commitment to fostering a long-term economic development plan for his district and ensuring that all community members, including those marginalized, have access to necessary resources. The conversation also touches on the challenges within the Alabama Democratic Party and Hunter's aspirations for building a more inclusive and functional party structure.   00:00 Introduction and Economic Outlook 00:28 Welcome to the Foolish Optimist Podcast 00:47 Meet Robert Louis Hunter 01:43 Why Robert is Running for Office 03:54 Community Organizing and Local Impact 07:08 Gadsden Free Store and Pride Events 11:31 Challenges and Future Plans 14:51 Economic Development and Infrastructure 23:56 Campaign Strategy and Community Engagement 31:16 Organizing Precinct Captains and House Parties 32:16 Challenges Facing Alabama Democrats 33:24 Internal Issues within the State Party 34:42 Generational Change and Leadership 35:23 Infighting and State Party Dynamics 37:10 National Party Intervention 38:55 Financial and Organizational Challenges 39:52 Campaign Strategy and Community Engagement 52:00 Rapid Fire Questions and Campaign Information 57:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    59 min
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About

I’m Amy McDonald, and I am on the hunt for the next generation of leaders, both in the ballot boxes and the teams behind them. On The Foolish Optimist, you’ll find interviews with candidates running for office in the 2025 and 2026 elections and beyond. But we also speak with civilians working behind the scenes to make elections go. You’ll find tidbits on how to communicate effectively, how neuroscience fits into campaigns, and what you can do with your current skills to help get quality candidates elected.

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