Town Road Talk

Rebecca
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She writes books and runs campaigns. He taught, milked goats, and passed laws. Together, they host Town Road Talk—a podcast where rural folks get heard, not herded, and where the values that once united small towns and ballot boxes get dusted off and brought back home.

Episodes

  1. 09/08/2025

    Karen DeSanto on Empowering Rural Communities: A Legislative Perspective

    In this conversation, Representative Karen DeSanto discusses her role in advocating for rural communities, focusing on education, healthcare, housing, and agriculture. She emphasizes the importance of supporting teachers, addressing the challenges faced by public education, and the need for affordable housing. DeSanto also shares insights into agricultural practices and the impact of legislation on rural areas, highlighting the importance of community engagement and bipartisan support for effective policy-making. Takeaways Advocating for rural issues is essential for community well-being. Public education is facing significant challenges and needs funding. Affordable housing is becoming increasingly difficult to attain. Agricultural practices are evolving, and innovation is key. Community engagement is vital for understanding local needs. Bipartisan support is crucial for passing important legislation. Visit us at www.townroadtalk.com Support us at patreon.com/townroadtalk

    33 min

  2. 09/08/2025

    The Heart of Baraboo: Community and Business with Seth Taft

    In this conversation, Seth Taft, the downtown manager of Baraboo, discusses his journey from archaeology to community management, emphasizing the importance of passion for local development. He highlights the vibrant events that engage the community, the challenges of balancing development with maintaining the town's character, and the significance of promoting local businesses, especially in uncertain economic times. The discussion also touches on what makes Baraboo unique and the connections formed through shared experiences. In this conversation, Rebecca Powell Hill and Dave Considine discuss the impact of highways on community development, the importance of navigating change thoughtfully, and the heartwarming experiences surrounding local events like the Christmas light parade. They emphasize the spirit of collaboration within the community, the celebration of local culture, and the significance of honoring indigenous heritage. Personal stories and resilience in the face of challenges are also highlighted, showcasing the vibrant life in Baraboo. Visit us at www.townroadtalk.com Support us at patreon.com/townroadtalk

    34 min

  3. 09/08/2025

    The Unsung Heroes of Wisconsin State Parks with Seth Taft

    Our conversation with Seth Taft, the new Executive Director of the Association of Wisconsin State Parks, explores the vital role of Friends groups in supporting state parks, particularly in rural communities. It highlights the extensive work these groups do beyond fundraising, including maintenance and advocacy for park funding. The discussion also addresses the challenges of state park funding, the importance of the Knowles-Nelson Conservation Fund, and the need to preserve both cultural and natural resources. We emphasize the significance of community involvement and the necessity for better infrastructure and support for state parks. Takeaways Friends groups do more than fundraising; they support park maintenance. Rural communities heavily rely on state parks for recreation and tourism. Funding for state parks in Wisconsin is significantly lower than in Minnesota. Community involvement is crucial for the upkeep of parks. Advocacy for state park funding is essential for future generations. The Knowles-Nelson Conservation Fund is vital for preserving natural landscapes. Visit us at www.townroadtalk.com Support us at patreon.com/townroadtalk

    26 min

  4. 06/10/2025

    Rural Politics: Bridging the Gap with Clint Anderson

    In this conversation, Representative Clint Anderson discusses the challenges and opportunities in rural politics, focusing on infrastructure, community engagement, and the importance of volunteer services. He emphasizes the need for Democrats to connect with rural constituents and the significance of economic concerns in these communities. The discussion also touches on the impact of national politics on state budgeting and the necessity for revitalizing small towns through tourism and investment. Visit us at www.townroadtalk.com Support us at patreon.com/townroadtalk

    34 min

  5. 06/05/2025

    Grassroots Movements: Lessons from Former Chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party, Martha Laning

    In this episode of Town Road Talk, hosts Rebecca Powell and Dave Considine engage with Martha Laning, former chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party. They discuss the importance of strong state parties, the need for grassroots engagement, and the lessons learned from past campaigns. Martha emphasizes the significance of understanding rural communities, the necessity of local voices in politics, and the importance of effective messaging. The conversation also highlights strategies for empowering county parties and the role of block captains in community engagement. Martha shares insights on building trust through conversations and the future of rural politics, encouraging listeners to remain hopeful and active in their communities. Visit us at www.townroadtalk.com Support us at patreon.com/townroadtalk

    39 min

  6. 06/03/2025

    Bridging the Divide: Rural Strategy & Democratic Renewal, Say It With Your Chest: Real Talk with Joe Zepecki

    In this episode of Town Road Talk, host Rebecca Powell and Dave Considine sit down with Joe Zepecki—Democratic strategist and candidate for chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party. Together, they dive into Zepecki’s motivations for running, his rural roots, and the persistent challenges the Democratic Party faces in reaching rural voters. Zepecki offers candid insights into the cultural and economic divides shaping today’s political landscape. He underscores the importance of authenticity in political messaging and the need for year-round, grassroots organizing. From empowering local candidates to fostering meaningful dialogue between rural and urban communities, Zepecki lays out a vision for a more connected and effective Democratic Party. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on strategy, storytelling, and why hope and action still matter in today’s democracy. Visit us at www.townroadtalk.com Support us at patreon.com/townroadtalk

    36 min
  • 6 Episodes

About

She writes books and runs campaigns. He taught, milked goats, and passed laws. Together, they host Town Road Talk—a podcast where rural folks get heard, not herded, and where the values that once united small towns and ballot boxes get dusted off and brought back home.

Information

  • Creator
    Rebecca
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    6
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Town Road Talk
  • Show Website
    Town Road Talk