Explore every episode of the podcast Beyond Words

In this conversation, Michael interviews Erin Perrine, a Republican strategist, about her career in politics and the upcoming election. They discuss working on the Hill versus working on campaigns, the strengths and weaknesses of Kamala and Trump, the quick shift in the presidential race from Joe Biden to Kamala Harris, and the challenges of messaging on abortion and immigration. They also touch on the importance of emotions in politics, the likability factor for Kamala Harris, and the upcoming debates between Harris and Donald Trump.
Takeaways
Working on the Hill and working on campaigns are two different experiences, but it is possible to do both.
The messaging on abortion and immigration is challenging for both Republicans and Democrats.
Emotions play a significant role in politics, and voters are motivated by negative ads.
Republicans should focus on delivering their message and not try to trap Donald Trump in debates.
Democrats need to acknowledge the failures in certain areas, such as the economy and immigration, to resonate with voters.
The likability factor is important for Kamala Harris, and she should stay focused on her message during debates.
Both the Trump campaign and the Biden-Harris campaign are neck and neck in the race.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and background
01:11 Working on the Hill vs. working on campaigns
05:24 The quick shift in the presidential race
07:50 The challenges of messaging on abortion and immigration
16:00 The role of emotions in politics
29:55 Preparing for debates with Donald Trump
33:31 The neck and neck race between the Trump campaign and the Biden-Harris campaign

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In this conversation, Michael interviews Anthony Coley, a former DOJ and Treasury official, about the current political landscape and the importance of voting. They discuss Kamala Harris's rise in popularity, the strength of the Democratic bench, the threat of a second Trump term, and the need for Democrats to engage with the Republican media ecosystem. They also touch on the role of the DOJ and the importance of preserving voting rights. Overall, the conversation highlights the significance of the upcoming election and the need for Democrats to mobilize and protect democracy.
Takeaways
Kamala Harris has gained popularity through her hard work and connection with voters, particularly on issues like reproductive rights.
The Democratic Party has a strong and diverse bench of talented individuals who are ready to lead.
Voting rights are crucial, and efforts to restrict access to the ballot must be fought against.
The threat of a second Trump term is concerning, as it could lead to the further weaponization of the DOJ and erosion of democratic norms.
Democrats need to engage with the Republican media ecosystem to reach a wider audience and make their case.
The Biden presidency represents a return to decency and a fight for the soul of the country.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Discussion of Kamala Harris
09:33 Importance of Voting Rights
12:24 Threat of a Second Trump Term and DOJ Weaponization
16:05 Engaging with the Republican Media Ecosystem
23:30 The Biden Presidency and Conclusion

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Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow discusses the political landscape in Michigan and the impact of the Biden-Harris campaign. She highlights the importance of Michigan in national politics and the fear of losing the state to Republicans. McMorrow also talks about the excitement and hope surrounding the Biden-Harris campaign and the need for a functional two-party system. She emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing and down-ballot races. McMorrow discusses the significance of reproductive rights, particularly in light of the Dobbs decision, and the need for access to safe and legal abortion. She reflects on the rise of Trumpism and the importance of standing up against hate and bullying.

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In this conversation, Michael interviews Kaivan Shroff, a Democratic political consultant, political commentator and attorney about the 2024 election and the stakes for Democrats.
They discuss the dangers of a Trump presidency, the people he surrounds himself with, the meanness of the Republican party, the messaging challenges for Democrats, the role of the media, the influence of money in politics, and the need for Democrats to be more assertive and proactive. They also touch on the challenge of winning back Trump supporters and the lack of backbone among some Republicans.
The conversation covers topics such as media bias, TV commentary, the role of contributors, and the American dream. Michael and Kaivan discuss the influence of media in shaping public opinion and the tendency to seek out controversial voices for entertainment value. They also share their experiences in TV commentary and the challenges of navigating the industry. The conversation touches on the importance of staying true to one's beliefs and not compromising for the sake of popularity. The American dream is defined as the opportunity for individuals to work hard and improve their lives, but the current political climate and polarization hinder its realization.

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Janelle Perez, the executive director of LPAC, discusses the work of LPAC in supporting and electing LGBTQ women and non-binary folks. She shares her personal experience running for office in Florida and the attacks she faced from the Republican party. The conversation also touches on the Republican party's attack on the LGBTQ community, the Don't Say Gay Bill, and the fear-mongering tactics used by Republicans. The discussion expands to the challenges faced by Democrats in Florida, the need for better messaging and outreach to diverse communities, and the importance of addressing pocketbook issues that impact voters. The conversation covers various topics related to politics, elections, and the American dream. The main themes include the need for bipartisan dialogue, the volatile nature of politics, the importance of emotional messaging, the impact of losing a race, the behavior of Trump and Republicans, the preservation of personal freedoms, and the definition of the American dream. The conversation also highlights the work of LPAC in endorsing LGBTQ+ women and non-binary candidates.

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*This episode was recorded prior to the Biden announcement on Sunday.
Michael talks with the Head of Next Gen, Christina Tzintzun Ramirez. Next Gen empowers young voters to engage in political process and ensure government responsiveness to the biggest and most diverse generation in American History. The conversation covers a range of topics related to this election, the Biden administration, young voters, and the role of organizers in engaging the electorate. It delves into the challenges and opportunities in mobilizing young voters, the impact of policy decisions on their support, and the changing dynamics of political engagement. The conversation also explores the influence of economic policies, and the role of the courts in shaping the political landscape. Michael and Christina cover a wide range of topics including the impact of the Supreme Court on young voters, immigration, the political landscape in Texas, the influence of young people in politics, and the importance of voting. It also delves into the role of young people in shaping the future of the country and the need for their active participation in the political process and this election especially.
Takeaways
The Biden administration's policies on student debt, climate change, and labor unions have resonated with young voters, but there are areas, such as the conflict in Gaza, where the administration's stance has eroded support.

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In this conversation, Kurt Bardella, a democratic strategist and former Republican, talks about his journey into politics, working on Capitol Hill, and his time as press secretary for Congressman Darrell Issa. Bardella is the Creator & Publisher of the Morning Hangover and a contributor to News Nation, LA Times and other media. Bardella is also a country music enthusiast and shares stories from the Academy of Country Music Awards and his love for artists like Chris Stapleton.
Michael and Kurt reflect on the changing dynamics of Capitol Hill and the current state of the Republican Party. Bardella discusses the rise of Donald Trump and his early recognition of Trump's potential as a political force. The conversation covers various topics related to the 2016 election, the Clinton campaign, the Democratic Party, the media, and the current

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ROY WOOD JR. is a comedian, an Emmy-nominated documentary producer, a correspondent on Comedy Central’s Emmy-nominated The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, and host of Comedy Central’s award-winning podcast, The Daily Show: Beyond the Scenes. Spring of 2023, Wood guest hosted The Daily Show and headlined the White House Correspondents' Dinner.

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The Presidential Debate is the talk of the moment. Michael is joined by Ally Sammarco, a democratic strategist and ex-Republican, sr. digital editor for LA Magazine and Host of @Americas_Show among other things. Their conversation revolves around the aftermath of the presidential debate and the future of the Democratic Party. They discuss Biden's performance, the need for a conversation about his ability to serve another term, and the challenges Democrats face in winning over voters. They also touch on the importance of optics, the role of the media, and the need for Democrats to reclaim narratives around patriotism and faith. The conversation concludes with a call to action for Democrats to support Biden and work towards a progressive agenda.
Takeaways
Biden's performance in the presidential debate was not strong, raising concerns about his ability to serve another term
Democrats face challenges in winning over voters, particularly independents, after the debate
The Democratic Party needs to reclaim narratives around patriotism and faith to appeal to a broader base
Democrats should focus on the party's accomplishments and the issues they stand for, rather than solely relying on Biden as the nominee
Voters need to be reminded of the dangers of Trump's presidency and the importance of voting for the Democratic Party

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In this conversation, Michael and Cheyanne Daniels, the race and Politics reporter for The Hill and host of The Switch Up podcast, discuss the challenges of covering politics, the importance of black leaders, and the messaging strategies of Democrats. They touch on the media's treatment of black leaders and the need for more authentic and relatable messaging to connect with black voters. She also says this is a crucial election and Black voters need to vote for Democracy. In this conversation, Cheyanne and Michael, discuss experiences covering Black politics and the challenges faced by Black reporters. She highlights the importance of representation in media and the need to amplify the voices of marginalized communities. Cheyanne also explores the impact of the Biden administration and the role of Black voters in the upcoming elections. The conversation touches on topics such as the historic nature of Kamala Harris' vice presidency, the pressures faced by White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, the burden of being a first in a marginalized community, and the importance of covering stories that are often overlooked.

Takeaways

Covering politics can be challenging and overwhelming, especially during election season.

Black leaders have made significant sacrifices to be where they are today, and their stories and perspectives are important.

Democrats need to be more assertive and authentic in their messaging to connect with black voters.

The media should provide fair and equal coverage to black leaders, just as they do for white leaders. Representation in media is crucial for amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and ensuring diverse perspectives are heard.

Black reporters often face unique challenges and pressures in their coverage of Black politics and issues affecting the Black community.

The Biden administration has made historic strides in representation, but there is still work to be done to address the concerns of Black voters and marginalized communities.

Covering stories that are often overlooked, such as the maternal mortality crisis and the impact on Black mothers, is essential for raising awareness and driving change.

The upcoming elections will be a critical moment for Black voters and the need to consider the broader implications of their choices beyond single-issue concerns.

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Former Trump press secretary, Sean Spicer, discusses his experience in politics and the changes he has observed in the Republican Party. He reflects on the Trump administration and the impact of Trump's presidency on the political landscape. The conversation also touches on the 2020 election and the events of January 6th. Spicer shares his perspective on Trump's leadership style and his thoughts on Trump's potential candidacy in 2024. The conversation between Sean Spicer and Michael covers a range of topics, including the protests following the killing of George Floyd, foreign policy, abortion, and the upcoming election. They discuss the divisive nature of politics and the fear and anger that exists between different sides. They also touch on the role of the media and the importance of relationships and personal experiences. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for understanding and finding common ground in a polarized society.

Takeaways

The Trump administration brought a populist shift to the Republican Party, aligning the leadership with the grassroots on issues like trade and foreign policy.

Spicer believes that Trump's tactics and tone should not overshadow the outcomes he achieved, such as renegotiating trade deals and pushing NATO allies to increase defense spending.

There were concerns about the haphazard legal strategy and lack of a clear plan to address election concerns in 2020.

Spicer acknowledges that Trump can be both empathetic and abrasive, and that people's experiences with him vary.

Spicer expresses confidence in Trump's fitness for a second presidential term and believes that the focus should be on policy outcomes rather than personal opinions about his character.

There is a disagreement about the impact of Trump's rhetoric on race relations in the country. The protests following the killing of George Floyd were a significant event that sparked a national conversation about race and policing.

Foreign policy under Donald Trump was a mixed bag, with some successes and failures.

Abortion is a deeply divisive issue, with differing opinions on when life begins and the role of government in regulating it.

The upcoming election will be closely contested, with key battleground states playing a crucial role.

The media landscape is polarized, with different outlets catering to different political ideologies.

Building and maintaining relationships is important in navigating the political landscape and finding common ground.

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tiktok: @therealonlyhonest

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Heather Williams, President of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC), discusses the importance of state legislatures in shaping policy and protecting rights. She highlights the role of state legislators in addressing issues such as abortion legislation, gun control, and voting rights. Williams emphasizes the need for Democrats to engage with voters in all communities, including those that may not traditionally support the party. She also emphasizes the importance of staying involved in politics beyond election years and the power of young people in shaping the future. Overall, Williams expresses hope in the work being done by state legislators and the opportunity to build power and create positive change at the state level.

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In our era of endless mass shootings, Vanderbilt professor Jonathan Metzl examines America’s deadly obsession with firearms through the lens of a shocking 2018 Waffle House shooting. He delves into the psyche of white male shooters, arguing the carnage stems not from mental illness but toxic racism mixed with gun worship permeating society.

As the deaths mount with no policy response, Metzl warns that America approaches an abyss where gunfire replaces democratic principles. He says protests after shootings achieve nothing without grasping structural power the way the NRA does through judge appointments. Metzl predicts continued legislative defeats and vigilantism unless liberals mobilize communities to play a long game. With vivid analysis of the link between racism and violence, Metzl’s sobering work captures our national pathology.

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In this episode, Cristina Tzintzún Ramirez, the President of NextGen America, discusses the political power of young people and the importance of engaging voters of color. She emphasizes the need for the Democratic Party to invest in communities of color and tailor their messages to the diverse subsets within these communities. Ramirez also addresses the complexities of immigration and the misconceptions surrounding Dreamers. She criticizes Governor Greg Abbott for using immigration as a political stunt and highlights the need for comprehensive immigration reform.  The conversation covers topics such as negotiating for progressive policies, the impact of the Gaza conflict on young Democrats, the generational divide on the Israeli-Palestinian issue, and the stakes of the election.

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In this episode, Michael Starr Hopkins interviews Elie Mystal, the justice correspondent and host of the legal podcast, Contempt of the Court. They discuss various topics related to the courts and the political landscape. Elie shares his experience of being on SNL and then dives into the issue of judicial appointments. He highlights the failure of Democrats to keep up with Trump's pace in appointing judges and the impact it has on the rights and freedoms of Americans. Elie also discusses the Republicans' pipeline for judicial appointments and the lack of focus from Democrats in grooming their own talent. They further explore the reliance on the courts to save democracy and the potential dangers of Trump's desperation to stay out of jail. The conversation concludes with a review of the Fani Willis case and the strategies for moving forward. In this conversation, Elie Mystal and Michael discuss the delay in Trump's legal cases and the role of the Supreme Court. They also touch on the influence of money in politics and the potential for Trump to go to jail. The conversation highlights the importance of the lower courts and the concerns about state governments. They also discuss online harassment and trolling. Overall, the conversation provides insights into the legal challenges faced by Trump and the impact of these cases on the political landscape.

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In this episode, Michael Starr Hopkins interviews Nikki Fried, the Florida Democratic Party Chair and former Florida Agriculture Secretary. They discuss Fried's transition from private citizen to public figure, her experience working with Governor Ron DeSantis, and the challenges faced by Florida Democrats. Fried also shares her advocacy for the Groveland Four and her stance on issues like marijuana legalization and gun ownership. She emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing and unity within the Democratic Party. Fried concludes by discussing the upcoming abortion ballot initiative in Florida and urging voters to not count out the state in future elections.

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In this episode, Michael Starr Hopkins interviews Mark Caputo, a national political reporter, about Ron DeSantis' exit from the 2026 Republican primary campaign. They discuss the reasons for DeSantis' campaign failure, including his awkwardness and treatment of people. They also explore DeSantis' current position as governor and his potential future as a lame duck governor. The conversation touches on the lessons learned from losing a presidential race and the vulnerabilities of Joe Biden in the 2024 election. They conclude by discussing the future of the Republican Party after Trump and speculating on Trump's potential VP pick.

Takeaways

• Ron DeSantis' campaign failed due to his awkwardness and treatment of people, including his staff and voters.
• DeSantis' lack of connection with voters and his focus on his accomplishments in Florida hindered his campaign.
• DeSantis' treatment of staff, including firing those who leaked damaging information, showcased his attitude and approach to power.
• The next Republican nominee is likely to be a blend of establishment and grassroots, similar to Donald Trump.

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Dive into a riveting episode where Michael Starr Hopkins and Jim Kessler take you on a journey through the heart of modern American politics. This episode, titled "Democratic Crossroads: The Unpredictable Journey of Today's Political Landscape," is a rollercoaster ride of insights, analyses, and bold predictions.

Listen as they unravel the complex tapestries of Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema's political careers, showcasing how these two figures mirror the seismic shifts within the Democratic Party. The conversation then pivots to the labyrinthine challenges of immigration messaging, shedding light on the party's struggles and missed opportunities in shaping a coherent narrative.

As the dialogue deepens, Hopkins and Kessler dissect the ideological metamorphosis of the Democratic Party. They explore the rising tide of its progressive wing, counterbalanced by the enduring influence of its moderate and conservative factions. The discussion takes a sharp turn into the thorny issue of the party's elitist image and the profound influence of social media in sculpting political discourse.

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Philip Schulman from American Bridge 21st Century joins the host, Michael Star-Hopkins, to discuss No Labels and its transformation over the years. They delve into the origins of No Labels and its initial goal of uniting Republicans and Democrats. However, they highlight how No Labels has shifted its agenda and become a grifting Republican operation. The conversation explores No Labels' funders, financial practices, and connections to shady figures. They also discuss the potential impact of No Labels on the 2026 election and the threat it poses to democracy. The episode concludes with a warning to voters about the risks of No Labels and the importance of the upcoming election.

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In this episode, the conversation revolves around the state of the Republican Party and the potential impact of Donald Trump on future elections. The Bulworks’ Jim Swift and host Michael Starr Hopkins discuss the party's alignment with Trump, the reluctance of Republicans to denounce him, and the potential for a dictatorship. They also explore the dynamics of the 2026 election, the importance of endorsements, and the challenges faced by Democrats in maintaining voter turnout. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the worthiness of democracy and the possibility of saving it.

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In our era of endless mass shootings, Vanderbilt professor Jonathan Metzl examines America’s deadly obsession with firearms through the lens of a shocking 2018 Waffle House shooting. He delves into the psyche of white male shooters, arguing the carnage stems not from mental illness but toxic racism mixed with gun worship permeating society.

As the deaths mount with no policy response, Metzl warns that America approaches an abyss where gunfire replaces democratic principles. He says protests after shootings achieve nothing without grasping structural power the way the NRA does through judge appointments. Metzl predicts continued legislative defeats and vigilantism unless liberals mobilize communities to play a long game. With vivid analysis of the link between racism and violence, Metzl’s sobering work captures our national pathology.

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In this conversation, Michael Starr Hopkins and Joe Walsh discuss the state of the Republican and Democratic parties, the influence of Donald Trump, and the challenges facing both parties. They explore topics such as the lack of enthusiasm for Joe Biden, the messaging problems of the Democratic Party, and the need for working class champions. They also discuss the immigration issue and the importance of listening and understanding opposing viewpoints. Despite the personal cost of leaving the Republican Party, Joe Walsh has no regrets and believes that democracy is worth saving.

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In this enlightening episode of "Political Roots," Michael Starr Hopkins sits down with Scott Bolden, a seasoned expert in law and politics, to dissect the complex landscape of the 2026 election, focusing on the impact of Trump's legal challenges and the role of Black voters. Bolden, with his rich background in civil rights advocacy, brings a unique perspective to the table, discussing the significant implications of Trump's potential indictments and the current state of American politics. The conversation pivots to the crucial role Black voters play in shaping the outcome of elections, especially in the context of Trump's divisive rhetoric and policies. Bolden articulates the need for the Democratic Party to effectively engage and mobilize the Black electorate, critiquing their current strategies and emphasizing the power of this voting bloc. This episode offers a nuanced exploration of the intersection between racial justice, political strategy, and the ongoing legal drama surrounding one of the most polarizing figures in American politics.

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In this compelling episode of Political Roots, host Michael Starr Hopkins sits down with Bakari Sellers, a renowned CNN contributor and one of the youngest political figures in America. The discussion kicks off with a look into Sellers' upcoming book, "The Moment," which reflects on the racial reckoning that followed George Floyd's death, the role of media, and the unfulfilled promises of equity and progress.

Sellers shares his personal and poignant insights on the slow pace of racial progress, the high cost for the black community, and the widespread resistance against diversity, equity, and inclusion. The conversation then pivots to a broader political context, critiquing the Democratic Party's outreach strategies to African American and Latino communities, emphasizing the need for genuine and effective engagement rather than superficial or misguided attempts.

The episode also delves into the importance of representation in all sectors, highlighting how diversity in senior positions can prevent cultural insensitivities and lead to more inclusive decision-making. Sellers and Hopkins discuss the upcoming 2026 election, the potential dynamics at play, and the critical role of young voters and communities of color in shaping the future political landscape.

Throughout the conversation, Sellers and Hopkins navigate through various topics including the importance of messaging in political campaigns, the nuances within minority communities, and the personal and societal impacts of current and historical political strategies. They conclude on a note of hope and determination, emphasizing the need for continued effort and the importance of each generation in pushing for progress and change.

Listeners are left with a deeper understanding of the complexities of racial politics in America, the challenges ahead, and the potential pathways to a more inclusive and equitable society.

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In this compelling episode of Political Roots, Michael Starr Hopkins sits down with Ryan Grim, the Washington D.C. bureau chief for The Intercept. The discussion revolves around Grim's latest book, "The Squad," a deep dive into the emergence and impact of this influential group of progressive politicians. They also delve into the current political landscape, examining the role of media in shaping discourse, the persistent struggles with corporate influence in politics, and the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Grim shares his insights on the evolving dynamics of the Democratic Party, the fight for a more equitable society, and the importance of grassroots activism. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of media, politics, and the ongoing quest for social justice.

The Squad: AOC and the Hope of a Political Revolution

By Ryan Grim

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Welcome to Beyond Words.

A place for quiet thoughts, honest feelings, meaningful stories, and the words that sometimes live deeper than our voices can reach.

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Welcome to Beyond Words.

A place where we talk about the feelings that are difficult to explain.
The thoughts we keep inside.
The moments that change us quietly.
And the words we wanted to say… but never did.

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In this episode, Stephen talks with Kayla Mills, about bowfishing. Kayla is an animal scientist and an avid bowfisher. Kayla talks about how she got started in bowfishing and why she likes it so much.

Debbie shares how turning 50 became a turning point for her. After spending much of her adult life caring for sick family members while running her own insurance agency, she realized that she had spent years taking care of everyone else while neglecting herself. She began a journey of reinvention without having a clear destination or knowing exactly what she wanted to become.

Episode Summary
What happens when you reach a point in life and realize you do not want to spend the next 50 years wondering what you could have done differently?
In this episode of All About Us, Carl Allen sits down with author and reinvention advocate Debbie Weiss for an honest conversation about starting over, changing your mindset, facing fear, and discovering new possibilities later in life.

In this episode, Stephen visits with Robert Heed from Outdoor Insiders in New Milford,

In this episode, Stephen visits with Robert Heed from Outdoor Insiders in New Milford, PA. 
 
You can learn more about Outdoor Insiders 

People often think the hunt begins when you enter the woods.

But experienced hunters know better.

The hunt begins days before.

Sometimes weeks before.

You start thinking about the location.

You check your equipment.

In this episode, Stephen talks with Armando Martinez, the co-inventor of "The Bow Hitch. Armando discusses "The Bow Hitch" and how they developed the concept.

Welcome to Beyond Words. 
The podcast where ideas come to life through the power of AI and meaningful conversations. | 

The podcast where ideas come to life through the power of AI and meaningful conversations.