Political Contessa

Jennifer Nassour

Women on the right need a safe space to discuss politics, policy, news, and ownership over the fact that it is ok to agree to disagree. It is our First Amendment right to free speech. Before we can even out the number of women in our local, state, & federal governments, we need to empower women to feel comfortable and confident discussing these and other topics. My name is Jennifer. I’m a single mom of three girls living in Boston. I’m a lawyer with two political science degrees, and I have no problem talking politics with people who disagree with me. I spent three years as the Chairman of the Massachusetts GOP and ran for the very liberal Boston City Council. I’m a frequent analyst on Newsmax, Fox News Radio, and Boston Media. As a Republican in a blue state, I know a few things about how to disagree agreeably. Join me for fascinating conversations that engage and clarify every week. For more information and resources, visit Political Contessa.

  1. 1D AGO

    News of the Day from a Crazy Blue State

    In this week’s episode, Jennifer takes center stage. Jennifer is an experienced attorney and political strategist, known for her leadership as former Chairwoman of the Massachusetts Republican Party and as the founder of Pocketbook Project. Jennifer has built her career championing conservative values, government transparency, and women's participation in politics across Massachusetts. Her work continues to focus on fiscal responsibility, advocating for effective public policy, and empowering citizens to engage in governmental processes. Jennifer covers a single day’s worth of current headlines in Massachusetts, detailing the financial gains of members of Congress from the state, including Ayanna Pressley, Elizabeth Warren, and Katherine Clark. She breaks down the Massachusetts budget’s recent growth under Governor Healey and examines changes in government spending, rising utility costs, and resident outmigration. The episode also highlights proposals from the Boston City Council to create an immigrant emergency response fund and addresses how public and private funds are being allocated at the local level, all while the local support for seniors, veterans, and the state’s homeless are being ignored. “We should be helping our homeless. We should be helping our elderly, number one and two. We should be helping our veterans.” Jennifer Nassour This week on Political Contessa: How Massachusetts is a testing ground for Democratic strategies Examining the rapid wealth accumulation by members of Congress Why the Democrats are political hypocrites regarding wealth and messaging Government leaders abusing insider information and ethical boundaries Bloated State budgets and fraudulent government spending Rising utility costs and resident migration to other states Boston City Council proposals ignoring the needs of the elderly, homeless and veterans Misuse of SNAP and other public welfare benefits   Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa   Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts   Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    22 min
  2. FEB 5

    Encore Episode: Moving Forward Together Demanding Civility and Diversity of Thought in Politics

    In this week's episode, Jennifer discusses the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk and the troubling responses that followed on social and mainstream media. She dives into the alarming increase of hate speech, the breakdown of respectful discourse, and the pressing need for adults and leaders to set better examples for the next generation. The episode challenges both sides of the political spectrum for fueling divisiveness and emphasizes the difference between free speech and incitement. With passionate calls to restore civility and unite around shared values, Jennifer urges listeners to reject hatred and work collaboratively toward healing and progress in American democracy. “You don't just walk in and decide that the person who's there is wrong,  and you are right, and you're going to take matters into your own hands.” ~Jennifer   This week on Political Contessa: The assassination of Charlie Kirk and public reactions The urgent need to restore respect in political and personal life Generational influence on values and expectations Role models: the responsibility of leaders, educators, and parents Controversial commentary from both left and right Constitutional limits of free speech versus hate speech Impact of social media on fueling polarization How respect and civility can bring unity and progress   Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa   Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts   Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    15 min
  3. JAN 29

    Why Are Schools More Interested in Sex Toys Than Algebra? with Adrianne Simeone & Anne Brensley

    In this week’s episode, Jennifer welcomes Ann Brensley, candidate for Lieutenant Governor in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and Adrienne Simeone, founder of the Mama Bear Effect nonprofit and a mother of four. Ann Brensley is recognized for her focus on parental involvement and educational policy reform, emphasizing the importance of family values in governance. Adrienne Simeone, an advocate for children’s safety and parental rights, leads the Mama Bear Effect and works to expose issues affecting children in schools, drawing from personal experience and her research into child protection and sexual abuse prevention. Jennifer, Ann, and Adrienne engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the controversial surveys and curriculum introduced to Massachusetts public school students, with explicit questions on gender identity and sexuality. They address parental rights, transparency in education, and the role of schools in students’ personal development. The episode explores the growing concern about inappropriate content and lack of parental opt-in, how mental health issues in youth are addressed, and the importance of moral courage among parents advocating for their children’s safety. Controversial comments include critiques of sex education materials, frustration with limited parental control, and comparisons of certain school survey practices to child abuse. The conversation ends with actionable advice for parents and candidates seeking to effect change in their communities and legislative systems. "It teeters to me on not only outrageous and unbelievable and disgusting, but it teeters on almost child porn and child abuse. To ask a child those questions."  ~Jennifer Nassour This week on Political Contessa: Parental involvement and transparency in school curricula State-mandated surveys with explicit sexual questions for minors Opt-in versus opt-out legislation for sensitive school topics Concerns about the normalization of gender and sexuality topics in schools Impact of mental health issues on adolescent identity Empowering parents to speak up at school committees and run for office The role of social media and information access in shaping youth behaviors Strategies for parents to communicate and advocate within their communities Connect with Anne Brensley: Anne Brensley for Lieutenant Governor Connect with Adrienne Simeone:Mama Bear Effect Website Mama Bear Effect on Facebook and Instagram   Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa   Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts   Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    37 min
  4. JAN 22

    Rethinking Feminism and Gender Through Evolutionary Science with Marc Defant

    In this week’s episode, Jennifer welcomes Professor Marc Defant from the University of South Florida. Marc is a renowned geology and geochemistry professor specializing in the study of volcanoes, the geochemistry of volcanic rocks, and mantle processes. With decades of experience researching volcanoes worldwide—including Russia—Marc has recently explored the intersection of evolutionary psychology and feminist studies. He is the author of the peer-reviewed paper, "Evolutionary Psychology and the Crisis of Empirical Rigor," which challenges mainstream academic views on social construction, feminism, and scientific rigor in sociocultural discourse.   Jennifer and Marc dig into the controversial relationship between evolutionary psychology and modern feminist theories. Marc shares his perspective on how biological evolution shaped human social structures, including the origins of patriarchy, mate selection criteria, and gender dynamics both in ancestral and contemporary societies. They discuss the clash between scientific rigor and politically motivated ideologies within academic feminist studies, particularly around issues like social construction, beauty, health, and fat studies. The episode also explores societal trends like the impact of "safe at any size" movements, generational shifts in health and education, and Marc’s critique of wokeism and its ties to gender representation in professional fields. This conversation is packed with candid observations, scientific reasoning, and reflections on how political culture often overshadows empirical evidence in academia.   "One thing a lot of women don't realize is back in a hunter gather society,  you were either breastfeeding a baby, lactating, or having another child. They stayed pregnant until they couldn't have children anymore. So that's created a society that we have today where men are in leadership roles."  ~Marc Defant   This week on Political Contessa: The evolutionary psychology behind patriarchy and gender-based social roles Issues of empirical rigor in feminist studies and social construction theory How societal expectations about beauty and health intersect with biology Discussion of “safe at any size” and health implications for younger generations Contrast between male and female approaches to competition and leadership The impact of generational upbringing, career shifts, and family structures on women’s choices Wokeism, gender dominance in professional fields, and freedom of speech Insights on mate selection and resource investment across cultures   Connect with Marc Defant: Website: https://www.marcdefant.com University of South Florida Faculty Profile: https://usf.academia.edu/MarcDefant ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Marc-Defant Peer-reviewed paper: "Evolutionary Psychology and the Crisis of Empirical Rigor" (contact Marc for access) Resources Mentioned: Robert Wright’s "The Moral Animal"  Helen Andrews’ essay “The Great Feminization” for Compact Magazine  Corey Clark’s research on polling and gender differences in views on free speech   Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa   Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts   Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    38 min
  5. JAN 15

    Susan Molinari & Beth Brooke of Women Drive, Too Leading the Campaign to Mandate Female Crash Test Dummies

    In this week’s episode, Jennifer welcomes Susan Molinari and Beth Brooke to dive into the shocking disparities and outdated standards in the way car safety is measured for women in the United States. They reveal that despite decades of progress, female crash test dummies are still largely absent from critical safety testing, putting women at greater risk of injury and death. They address controversial facts such like the continued use of “shrink it and pink it” dummy models, the bureaucratic inertia at NHTSA, and the international success of advanced female crash dummies in the EU and Asia, where substantial reductions in female traffic fatalities have been achieved. Calling for bipartisan legislative action, they highlight the “She Drives Act,” and encourage listeners to bring pressure to Congress and the Department of Transportation, and challenge listeners to take activism into their own hands by educating themselves and demanding accountability from policymakers and automakers. Susan Molinari is a former U.S. congresswoman and Google VP of public policy, renowned for her commitment to public service and policy innovation. Beth Brooke is the former EY Global Vice Chair and has been recognized as one of Forbes’ World's 100 Most Powerful Women. Her global leadership and dedication to equity are widely celebrated. Together, they have spearheaded a movement aimed at transforming government standards around vehicle safety for women, drawing on their experiences in Congress and international corporate leadership.   In 1970 is when the United States government first started with crash test dummies. It wasn't until 20 years later that they realized that women got in cars also. And so instead of taking all the biofidelic differences we have between men and women, they just what we call shrink it and pink it.”  ~ Susan Molinari   This week on Political Contessa: Female crash test dummies are absent from primary vehicle safety testing standards The “She Drives Act” aims to mandate gender-equitable vehicle safety testing Bureaucratic delays in rulemaking risk prolonged inequities in car safety for women Advanced female crash test dummies are already producing results in Europe and parts of Asia Status quo “shrink it and pink it” dummy models fail to capture women’s biomechanical differences Women are 73% more likely to be severely injured and 17% more likely to die in car accidents Congressional and administrative inertia can be disrupted by grassroots advocacy and awareness Social media activism and direct outreach to representatives are critical for legislative accountability Connect with Susan Molinari and Beth Brooke: Women Drive, Too website Women Drive, Too on Instagram: @WomenDriveToo Women Drive, Too on Facebook: @WomenDriveToo Resources mentioned: She Drives Act (pending bipartisan legislation)  NHTSA crash test standards Thor 5 advanced female crash test dummy statistics and implementation in the EU   Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa   Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts   Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    33 min
  6. JAN 8

    From Hand Gestures to Headaches, I’m Celebrating 200 Political Contessa Episodes of WTF Moments Final

    In this week’s episode, Jennifer celebrates a major milestone as she marks her 200th episode. Jennifer is a political strategist, attorney, and founder of the Pocketbook Project, an organization dedicated to supporting women who run for office and empowering conservative women to have their voices heard. With over three decades of experience in politics, Jennifer has frequently appeared on television and radio and is known for her unfiltered take on current events, her advocacy for Republican women in blue states, and her commitment to honest political conversations. Reflecting on the genesis of Political Contessa, Jennifer shares how the show was born out of her desire to tackle issues important to women in politics, especially conservative voices often marginalized in liberal states. In this episode, she delivers a passionate, unvarnished recounting of the most impactful political and cultural events from 2021 to 2026, including the pandemic, controversial mandates, the overturning of Roe v. Wade, January 6th, political violence, and shifts in global leadership. She addresses hot-button topics such as vaccine mandates, partisan media bias, assaults on free speech, and the effects of AI on the job market. Jennifer also pays tribute to guests and episodes that have made a lasting impression and makes pointed, controversial observations on the state of American politics, the Democratic Party, and how debate and civility have been eroded in recent years. “I don't have to take it. You know how I don't take it? I have my own podcast. So there you go.” ~Jennifer Nassour This week on Political Contessa: Celebrating 200 episodes and the origins of Political Contessa Why Jennifer started the show to empower Republican women in blue states A recounting of political and social upheavals from 2021 to 2026 The impact of pandemic mandates and school vaccination policies Contentious moments in American politics, including January 6th, BLM riots, and Supreme Court decisions Critique of media bias and challenges of speaking as a conservative woman in liberal environments Reflections on political violence, including high-profile assassinations and attacks The influence and potential dangers of AI on the work landscape for new graduates Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office, or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    25 min
  7. Encore Episode: Who Needs a King When We Have Congress Final

    JAN 1

    Encore Episode: Who Needs a King When We Have Congress Final

    In this week’s episode, Jennifer tackles the ongoing government shutdown and its wide-ranging impact, sharply criticizing Democratic leadership for leveraging struggling families as political pawns. She highlights actions taken by Republican lawmakers to help their communities during the crisis, while alleging that many Democratic officials are out of touch and prioritize their own benefits over those of ordinary Americans. Jennifer addresses concerns over transparency and financial impropriety among prominent Democrats, debates the expansion of health care to undocumented immigrants, and accuses state leadership in Massachusetts of ignoring the will of the voters. She also takes aim at what she perceives as a double standard regarding accusations of authoritarianism, arguing that real examples of unchecked political power can be found within the Democratic Party. This episode dives into controversial topics such as the government shutdown’s effect on military families, the use of taxpayer funds for undocumented immigrants, and the refusal of Massachusetts officials to allow for legislative audits despite overwhelming voter support. Jennifer lays out her case for fiscal conservatism, limited government, and prioritizing veterans and vulnerable citizens over what she calls “illegals.” Her remarks reflect her views on the failures of Democratic leadership at both the federal and state levels, warning that continued disregard for public sentiment will have electoral consequences as key states prepare for the next election cycle. "They said, 'Of course there will be families that are going to suffer, but it's one of the few leveraged times we have.' It's disgusting. It's absolutely sickening." ~Jennifer This week on Political Contessa: Impact of the government shutdown on families, the military, and government workers Criticism of the Democratic leadership’s handling of the shutdown and use of leverage Examples of Republican lawmakers supporting constituents during the crisis Allegations of financial impropriety among elected officials Debate over health care expansion to undocumented immigrants Ongoing partisan conflict over immigration, crime, and public safety Accusations of authoritarian behavior and disregard for voter mandates in Massachusetts Concerns over government spending and fiscal priorities Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa   Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn   Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    10 min
  8. 12/25/2025

    Encore Episode: Amplifying Women’s Voices in Politics with Georgia Polemenakos

    Georgia Polemenakos a Public Administration Professional with over 7 years of experience in various roles within the Massachusetts state government. She has a strong track record in political action, legislative relations, and effective public policy advocacy. Georgia is particularly interested in Women's Leadership and Empowerment, which she explored during her fellowship with the Women's Public Leadership Network. She was also recognized as a Suffolk University 10 Under 10 Honoree, reflecting her determination to excel in her career. With a passion for public service and nonprofit work, Georgia serves on two boards. Notably, she has worked for Governor Charlie Baker's administration in Massachusetts where she progressed from Program Coordinator to Senior Deputy Director. While she previously worked for the Massachusetts Republican Party, she has now transitioned to the private sector and is pursuing a master's degree in public administration. Today, I’m so pleased to chat with Georgia about our shared goal of getting young women interested in politics and the importance of their voices being heard. Georgia reflects on how her experience growing up in a politically engaged household started her on her journey in the field of politics. We discuss how Georgia has worked toward increasing gender diversity on boards and commissions and what happens to the conversation when you add more diverse voices. We highlight the significance of women's voices in politics, the challenges faced by women in the field, and the importance of supporting and empowering women in leadership positions. We discuss our experiences in politics and the need to understand different perspectives and work across party lines. We highlight the dedication required in public service, the value of women's representation in politics, and the importance of organizations like the Women's Public Leadership Network and the Pocketbook Project in supporting women in politics. We also share how you can become more informed, engage in respectful political discussions, prioritize personal well-being, and encourage more women to participate in public service.     “Women need to have perspective in public service, and we have such a different, unique perspective than what a man's perspective may be.” - Georgia Polemenakos     This week on Political Contessa:   Why young women need to become interested in politics and the importance of amplifying their voices How working for Governor Charlie Baker influenced Georgia’s political journey The impact of more gender diversity on boards and commissions The challenges faced by women going into politics The need for understanding different perspectives and working across party lines The tremendous value of women in public service How to become more informed about politics The importance of respectful political discussions How to prioritize your well-being How to encourage women in your life to participate in public service     Resources Mentioned:   Women’s Public Leadership Network Website The Pocketbook Project Website   Connect with Georgia Polemenakos:   Georgia Polemenakos on LinkedIn     Awaken Your Inner Political Contessa   Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of Political Contessa. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.   Spotify I Stitcher I Apple Podcasts I iHeart Radio I TuneIn I Google Podcasts   Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media. And if you’ve ever considered running for office – or know a woman who should – head over to politicalcontessa.com to grab my quick guide, Secrets from the Campaign Trail. It will show you five signs to tell you you’re ready to enter the political arena.     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    50 min
4.8
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Women on the right need a safe space to discuss politics, policy, news, and ownership over the fact that it is ok to agree to disagree. It is our First Amendment right to free speech. Before we can even out the number of women in our local, state, & federal governments, we need to empower women to feel comfortable and confident discussing these and other topics. My name is Jennifer. I’m a single mom of three girls living in Boston. I’m a lawyer with two political science degrees, and I have no problem talking politics with people who disagree with me. I spent three years as the Chairman of the Massachusetts GOP and ran for the very liberal Boston City Council. I’m a frequent analyst on Newsmax, Fox News Radio, and Boston Media. As a Republican in a blue state, I know a few things about how to disagree agreeably. Join me for fascinating conversations that engage and clarify every week. For more information and resources, visit Political Contessa.