Democracy Does: The Civic Power Playbook

This week on Democracy Does: The Civic Power Playbook, I had the honor of speaking with Retired Sergeant Douglas Brinker, whose decades of service in both the Navy and Army National Guard took him across the world—from Beirut to Operation Iraqi Freedom. His story is not only one of sacrifice, but of resilience.

In this bonus episode of 'Democracy Does: The Civic Power Playbook,' host Robin Hamilton welcomes Anthony Wright, Executive Director of Families USA, to discuss the urgent issue of expiring healthcare tax credits. Wright explains how the expiration of these credits will lead to skyrocketing healthcare premiums for over 22 million Americans, with some facing increases by hundreds or even thousands of dollars. He emphasizes the real-world impact of these changes, including the potential loss of coverage for millions and the broader implications for the healthcare system. Wright calls for immediate advocacy and action to prevent these spikes and ensure affordable healthcare for all. Tune in to understand the stakes, the policy intricacies, and what you can do to help.

In this episode of Democracy, Does the Civic Power Playbook, the host welcomes retired US Navy Commander Bobby Jones. The discussion centers on his distinguished military career, his inspiration to serve, and the leadership qualities fostered at the Naval Academy. Commander Jones shares insights on the challenges faced by veterans, the founding and importance of Veterans for Responsible Leadership, and the vital work they do.

In this episode of Democracy Does the Civic Power Playbook, host Robin Hamilton is joined by financial advisor and expert Thomas Sowanick. Thomas provides a comprehensive breakdown of what tariffs are, how they impact the U.S. economy, and what that means for the average consumer. 

The Vital Role of Dental Health: A Conversation with Dr. Wenzel Carter
Halloween may be spooky, but retired dentist Dr. Wenzell Carter says the real scare is what happens if healthcare cuts move forward.
In this episode of Democracy Does the Civic Power Playbook, host Robin Hamilton discusses the critical importance of dental health with  Dr. Carter. They explore Dr. Carter's career journey, the challenges faced by lower-income populations in accessing dental care, and the dire consequences of recent legislative cuts to Medicaid and Medicare. Dr. Carter also provides practical tips for maintaining dental health and emphasizes the need for accurate information in public health policies.

In this episode, Robin Hamilton interviews Glen, Lynne, and Joe White to discuss the impact of recent Medicaid cuts on individuals reliant on public benefits. Glen, a retired RN, shares the difficulties faced by his fiancé, Lynne, who suffers from epilepsy and relies heavily on Medicaid for her expensive treatment. Joe White, an organizer for Affordable Virginia, highlights the broader implications of these policies on military families and working families, and emphasizes the importance of community involvement and empowerment through storytelling.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. David Schein—bestselling author, professor, and political management expert—as we dive into the challenges facing American democracy today. Dr. Schein discusses the impact of term limits, the disconnect between politicians and the public, the influence of lobbyists, and the importance of civic engagement. We also explore the role of education, the need for government accountability, and practical steps for citizens to stay empowered and involved.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Rochelle Kishcart, a former Navy member turned federal worker, as she shares her journey and the vital role of empathic listening in community activism. Rochelle explains how her experiences in the military and public service shaped her understanding of empathy, and why truly listening to others is essential for anyone seeking to make a positive impact

In this episode of Democracy Does: The Civic Power Playbook, host Robin Hamilton interviews Jeff Rasley, a lawyer, author, and philanthropist. They discuss the importance of being environmentally responsible, politically active, and how to make an impact on community development.

In this powerful conversation, Angel Pye, a union leader for caregivers, shares her first-hand experience of the sacrifices required to care for her son on limited Medicaid benefits.