Colonel Moe Davis and co-host David Wheeler welcome Mayor Esther Manheimer to the Muck You podcast, diving deep into the recovery efforts in Asheville post-Hurricane Helene. Right outta the gate, they tackle the pressing issues facing the city and how the local government is navigating the aftermath of such a devastating storm. Esther shares her journey from a law career to becoming the mayor, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of leading a community through turbulent times. With a mix of humor and heartfelt stories, the trio explores the resilience of Asheville's residents, the collective spirit of recovery, and the importance of community support in the face of adversity. Tune in for a refreshing take on local governance and the bright future they envision for Asheville!

Takeaways:

• Colonel Moe Davis and Mayor Esther Manheimer dive deep into Asheville's recovery post-Hurricane Helene, highlighting community resilience and the importance of collaboration among local leaders.
• The podcast discusses the intricate web of funding sources available for infrastructure recovery, emphasizing the role of FEMA and other organizations in rebuilding Asheville.
• Esther shares her journey from Denmark to becoming Asheville's mayor, showcasing her passion for local governance and community service through her law background and public administration degree.
• Listeners learn about the challenges of balancing the mayoral duties with personal life, as Esther juggles her law practice, family, and the demands of city leadership after a disaster.
• The conversation touches on the evolving nature of Asheville's economy, stressing the need for diversification beyond tourism to create sustainable job opportunities for future generations.
• Esther emphasizes the importance of community spirit, recounting heartwarming stories of neighbors coming together during tough times, showcasing the genuine connection among residents in Asheville.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• American Muckrakers
• UNC School of Law
• Asheville
• FEMA
• Home Depot
• Walmart
• Franklin Graham
• Samaritan's Purse
• World Central Kitchen
• Josh Stein
• Grow NC

The American Muckrakers podcast this week dives deep into the political landscape of Iowa as David Wheeler and Colonel Moe Davis sit down with Kevin Techau, a candidate for Congress in Iowa's 2nd district. This episode is packed with insights into the current political climate and the challenges faced by candidates from both sides of the aisle. Wheeler and Davis waste no time getting into the nitty-gritty of campaign strategies, discussing Techau's military background and his motivations for entering the political arena. Techau, a retired colonel, shares his experiences in the Air Force JAG Corps and highlights the importance of veterans stepping up to serve their communities once again. He draws parallels between his military service and the current state of politics, emphasizing the need for integrity and collaboration in Congress. As they chat, listeners are treated to a candid discussion about the issues plaguing the district, from economic uncertainty to the plight of farmers struggling under the weight of tariffs and government cuts. Techau is determined to bring a fresh perspective to the political scene, focusing on 'meat and potato' issues that resonate with everyday Iowans, such as healthcare and the economy. He argues that the current representation is failing to address these concerns, opting instead for performance politics that do little to help the constituents. This engaging episode not only highlights Techau's vision for Iowa but also sheds light on the broader challenges facing the Democratic Party as they strive to regain ground in a competitive political landscape.

Takeaways:

• Colonel Kevin Techau believes that government should uplift people, not push them down, emphasizing the need for a more compassionate political approach.
• He criticizes the current representative, Ashley Henson, for focusing on culture wars and neglecting real solutions for Iowans who need support in their everyday lives.
• The podcast highlights the importance of a ground game in campaigns, stressing that personal connections and discussions with constituents are essential to winning over voters.
• Kevin Techau's military background and experience as a U.S. attorney shape his belief in integrity and the value of serving the community through effective governance.
• Listeners learn about the struggles in agricultural communities due to uncertainty from tariffs and government cuts that threaten their livelihoods and economic stability.
• The conversation touches on the need for Democrats to re-engage with rural voters, emphasizing that they must address the real, everyday issues affecting people’s lives.

Links referenced in this episode:

• kevinforiowa.com
• americanmuckrakers.com
• americanmuckrakers.substack.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• American Muckrakers
• Kevin Techau
• Ashley Henson
• Tom Vilsack
• Tom Harkin
• Joni Ernst
• Chuck Edwards
• Ray Gun
• John Deere
• Collins Radio
• USC
• Grinnell College

Colonel Moe Davis is on a mission to bring some serious heat to the political scene as he gears up for a run in NC11, and he's not holding back! Joined by his co-host David Wheeler, they dive into the nitty-gritty of political strategies, targeting those pesky GOP budget cuts that threaten to hit everyday Americans right where it hurts—in their wallets. They chat with C.J. Warnke, the communications maestro for House Majority PAC, who spills the beans on how their team is working to flip congressional seats and get the truth out there. With a colorful mix of humor and hard-hitting facts, they explore the battle against misinformation and the importance of supporting candidates who are truly in touch with their constituents. It’s a wild ride full of laughs, insights, and a big ol’ dose of political reality—so buckle up and get ready to muck it up!

In a lively and engaging episode of the American Muckrakers podcast, Colonel Moe Davis and David Wheeler welcome C.J. Warnke, the communications director for House Majority PAC. The episode kicks off with the hosts' signature banter, effortlessly blending humor with critical political dialogue. As the conversation unfolds, C.J. sheds light on the inner workings of the House Majority PAC and its commitment to winning congressional races for Democratic candidates. The discussion quickly pivots to the pressing issues at hand, particularly the detrimental effects of the GOP's budget proposals on the American middle class.

C.J. passionately outlines how the proposed Medicaid cuts and rising tariffs will impact everyday families, painting a vivid picture of the real-world consequences of Republican policies. With wit and insight, the hosts explore the importance of connecting with constituents on a personal level, emphasizing the need for Democrats to articulate their message in a way that resonates with voters' everyday experiences. The episode is filled with anecdotes and strategic insights on how to effectively campaign in challenging districts, underscoring the necessity of grassroots efforts and community engagement.

As the episode draws to a close, the trio reflects on the broader implications of their conversation, reinforcing the idea that fighting for the working class is not just a political strategy—it's a moral imperative. With a mix of laughter and serious reflection, Davis, Wheeler, and Warnke inspire listeners to stay engaged in the political process and to keep pushing for accountability and progress. This episode encapsulates the spirit of the American Muckrakers: a commitment to truth, a passion for change, and a belief that every voice matters in the fight for justice.

Takeaways:

• Colonel Moe Davis emphasizes the importance of grassroots campaigning in districts that are traditionally red, encouraging local engagement and support.
• C.J. Warnke from House Majority PAC discusses the strategic efforts to counter Republican messaging, particularly on healthcare and economic issues.
• The podcast highlights the challenges of gerrymandering and its impact on congressional races, stressing the need for fair representation and competitive districts.
• The hosts argue that engaging with voters in a relatable way is crucial for Democratic candidates to effectively communicate their message and build trust.
• The discussion covers how rising costs of living affect everyday Americans, linking these issues to the policies supported by Republican lawmakers.
• There is an ongoing call to action for Democrats to unite and focus their resources on competitive races, avoiding wasteful spending on unwinnable campaigns.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• House Majority PAC
• House Majority Forward
• Gary Peters
• Amy Klobuchar
• Elon Musk
• Chuck Edwards
• Marjorie Taylor Greene
• Mike Flood
• David Valadao...

Takeaways:

• In a surprising twist, Ukraine's recent offensive massively damaged Russia's strategic bombers, which could change the war's dynamics.
• Speaker A emphasizes that Russia's military capabilities have significantly degraded, making it a third-rate military power compared to its historical stature.
• The ongoing political contrarianism in the U.S. makes bipartisan support for Ukraine's defense a challenge, risking national security for political games.
• Dr. Jason J. Smart reveals that Russia's disinformation tactics are being met with strong Ukrainian resolve, with public support for the war still high despite the hardships.
• The podcast discusses how character assassination has evolved into a tool in domestic politics, affecting voter sentiment and campaign strategies.
• Listeners are reminded that U.S. foreign aid, which comprises a small portion of the budget, is crucial in preventing global conflicts and terrorism, counter to public perception.

Links referenced in this episode:

• Jason J.Smart.com
• americanmuckrakers.com
• americanmuckrakers.substack.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• American Muckrakers
• Kiev Post
• Ukraine
• Russia
• NATO
• Iran
• North Korea
• Venezuela
• Hezbollah
• Elon Musk
• Jack Daniels
• Uncle Nearest

Get ready to roll in the political muck as David and Colonel Mo Davis tackle the latest political shenanigans with their guest, Congressman Jack Kimball. In this episode, they dive headfirst into the wild world of political scams and the absurdities of American politics, all while keeping it hilariously real. Kimball, who represents the most diverse district in California, brings his own brand of humor and insight, discussing everything from executive orders running the show to his unconventional book, "Detective Jesus, Thou Shalt Not Kill." The trio serves up a buffet of playful banter, tackling topics like beef exports, the juicy drama of Congress, and even the intricacies of political strategy, all while keeping the laughs rolling. So grab your shovels and join them as they dig deep into the delightful chaos that is American politics!

Takeaways:

• Speaker B kicked off the episode with a humorous intro, setting the tone for a fun and casual discussion about American politics.
• Colonel Mo Davis introduced their guest Congressman Jack Kimball, who represents California's 54th district, a wildly diverse area that has a yoga institute and militia movement.
• The conversation veered into the absurd with talks about renaming states and the potential for beef exports to India, showcasing their playful banter and comedic timing.
• Jack Kimball made some eyebrow-raising comments about the legal system and Trump, leading to debates about fairness in trials, revealing the humorous yet serious nature of the discussion.
• There were laughs about the political landscape, including jokes about Congress and some light-hearted ribbing between the hosts and their guest, making it a lively episode.
• The episode wrapped with a reminder to stay loud and keep shoveling, a nod to their mission of digging through the muck of politics with a side of humor.

Links referenced in this episode:

• jackkimball.com
• americanmuckrakers.com
• americanmuckrakers.substack.com
• bsky.com/americanmuckrakers

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Elon
• X
• Reuters
• Jack Kimball
• California
• Sierra Nevada
• Chicago
• Jesus
• Detective Jesus
• FDR
• Herbert Hoover
• Judge Pirro
• Spirit Halloween
• Thom Tillis
• Madison Cawthorn
• Lauren Boebert
• David Simon
• Martin Scorsese
• Tyler Perry
• J.D. Vance
• Colonel Sanders
• RFK Jr.
• JFK Jr.
• Corey Lewandowski
• Betsy DeVos
• Arne Duncan
• Chuck Edwards
• American Muckrakers

Charlie Angus, a former Canadian MP and all-around cool dude, dives deep into the wild ride of U.S.-Canada relations in this episode, and let me tell ya, it’s a doozy! He spills the tea on how Trump’s antics flipped the script on Canada’s self-perception and its relationship with the U.S., turning friendly vibes into some serious “WTF” moments. Angus shares how the Canadian public is rallying together against the rising tide of disinformation and political manipulation, spurred on by a newfound sense of unity and urgency. They also chat about the power of music, the importance of standing up for democracy, and the hilarious yet poignant cultural differences that can make or break international friendships. And of course, there’s a healthy dose of humor and puns as they navigate the muck of politics—because who doesn’t love a good laugh amidst the chaos?

The podcast hits the ground running with an electrifying discussion between David Wheeler, Colonel Mo Davis, and Charlie Angus, a former member of the Canadian Parliament. Right from the bat, Wheeler brings a lighthearted feel as he juggles the idea of writing a book on Lauren Boebert while simultaneously lamenting the changing tides of US-Canada relations under Trump’s administration. Angus’s humor shines as he reflects on the absurdity of being perceived as a foe rather than a friend, something that seems straight out of an alternate reality.

As the trio delves deeper, the conversation shifts from humorous anecdotes to a more serious exploration of how Trump’s presidency has awakened a sense of urgency in Canadians. Angus passionately argues that the attacks from the US have forged a newfound unity among Canadian citizens, illustrating how they’ve rallied together under the banner of resistance. With clever quips and cultural references, Angus captures the mood of a nation that has gone from complacent to combative, ready to defend its identity against external threats. The discussions around cultural phenomena, like the catchphrase “elbows up,” take center stage as a symbol of this newfound militancy, showcasing how humor and activism can intertwine in the face of adversity.

In the final act, the podcast takes a delightful detour into music, where Angus candidly shares his preference for Tragically Hip over Rush, eliciting laughs and playful dissent from his co-hosts. The episode culminates in a powerful message about the importance of engagement and awareness in the political landscape. The hosts encourage listeners to stay informed and united, reminding everyone that the fight against tyranny is a collective endeavor, enriched by humor and a bit of elbow-throwing spirit.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, they explore the unexpected ways Trump's presidency has united Canadians against perceived threats from the U.S., showing how political dynamics can shift rapidly.
• Charlie Angus emphasizes the importance of resistance in the face of misinformation, highlighting how ordinary Canadians are becoming more politically aware and active.
• They discuss the deep-seated cultural connections between the U.S. and Canada, challenging the narrative that divides them into enemies and allies.
• The discussion touches on the growing militancy among Canadians to defend their values and identity in reaction to U.S. political rhetoric and actions.
• Charlie humorously reflects on the cultural phenomenon of 'elbows up' as a rallying cry, showing how humor can unite people in serious times.
• They conclude with a call for people to stay engaged and informed, reminding listeners that resisting tyranny and disinformation is a shared responsibility.

Links referenced in this episode:

• americanmuckrakers.com

Mo and David are back with another episode of Muck You!, and they’re diving deep into some wild political waters! Kicking things off with a bang, they share the juicy scoop about the newly minted "American Muckrakers University," a name so cheeky that it could probably earn a few giggles at graduation. The duo gets into the nitty-gritty of the upcoming political landscape, with Mo announcing his plans to challenge Chuck Edwards in the House of Representatives—yes, you heard that right! As they trade barbs about accountability in politics, they point out the absurdities of politicians skirting responsibility while the folks who actually pay the price are just trying to get by. Tune in as they banter about everything from campaign strategies to the chaos of Republican antics, and how Mo plans to bring real change to Western North Carolina! It's a lively ride filled with laughs, insights, and a hefty dose of real-talk.

>> Muck U is back, and boy, do David and Mo have a wild ride for their listeners! They kick things off with some banter about their new venture—American Muckrakers University, cheekily named 'Muck You.' It's clear right off the bat that these two are not just your average podcasters; they’re ready to dive into the muck of politics with a playful twist. The episode is packed with juicy updates, including Mo's plans to run against Chuck Edwards in the House of Representatives, and they don't shy away from the drama surrounding local politicians. They dissect Chuck's recent antics, including a cocktail-fueled speech gone wrong where he reportedly slapped a constituent—classic! The duo highlights the absurdity of political double standards, especially when it comes to accountability. It’s a hilarious yet serious dive into the murky waters of Western North Carolina politics, with Mo emphasizing the need for genuine representation over millionaire politicians who are more out of touch than a flip phone in 2023. By the end, listeners are left not just laughing but also pondering the real implications of political actions on everyday folks.

The second half of the show brings Sam Newton, of the Democratic Governors Association. Sam lays out why Dem Govs get shit done, who is up in 2025, and how you can help.

>> The dynamic duo of Muck U, David and Mo, takes a deep dive into the political landscape of Western North Carolina in this episode. The conversation is lively and filled with humor, starting with their light-hearted announcement about launching 'Muck You' University—a name that promises to raise eyebrows and maybe even a few laughs. Mo reveals his intent to challenge Chuck Edwards in the upcoming elections, and they dig into the details of the district's shifting demographics and political climate. From Mo's past campaigning experiences to the challenges posed by recent natural disasters, the discussion weaves through the complexities of local politics, voter engagement, and the stark realities faced by many constituents. The banter is peppered with anecdotes about past political misadventures, including comparisons to the notorious Madison Cawthorn. David and Mo shine a light on the importance of accountability and how politicians often evade responsibility. As they dissect the absurdity of political drama against the backdrop of real issues affecting local families, listeners are treated to a mix of humor and serious political discourse that makes them think about who truly represents their interests.

>> In this episode of Muck You!, David and Mo tackle the wild world of Western North Carolina politics with their signature blend of humor and insight. The show opens with the cheeky introduction of their new university, 'Muck You,' setting the tone for an engaging discussion. They launch into Mo's upcoming political campaign against Chuck Edwards, discussing the shifting political landscape and the impact of recent events, including a notorious cocktail-fueled...

John Padora is throwin' his hat in the ring to take on the infamous Lauren Boebert in Colorado's 4th congressional district, and boy, does this episode pack a punch! The gang at Muck U dives into the nitty-gritty of why John believes he can win over conservative voters in a district that's got a Republican lean sharper than a tack. With his blue-collar background and a heart for real talk, he’s on a mission to show that Democrats can connect with the working class and not just regurgitate party lines. The crew rolls through some hilarious banter while John shares his journey from overcoming personal struggles to advocating for authentic change in politics. So grab your popcorn, folks, because this episode is a wild ride filled with laughs, insights, and a game plan for shaking things up in the House!

The episode takes a deep dive into the political undercurrents of Colorado’s 4th district, where John Padora aims to take on the notorious Lauren Boebert. With David and Colonel Mo Davis steering the ship, the conversation flows like a river of witty observations and strategic insights. John paints a vivid picture of his campaign strategy, relying not just on traditional Democratic talking points but on real conversations with local constituents. He believes in showing up—literally and figuratively—at community events, addressing the issues that matter to people in a way that feels authentic and personal. The trio tackles the challenging dynamics of a district where nearly half the voters are unaffiliated, stressing the need for a candidate who can bridge the gap between party lines and resonate with the everyday struggles of constituents. As they banter about everything from campaign strategies to the absurdities of political life, the episode shines a light on the importance of integrity in politics, with John promising to prioritize ethical governance and transparency—a refreshing contrast to the chaos often associated with the current political climate.

Takeaways:

• The podcast kicks off with a bang, introducing the hosts in a hilariously over-the-top circus style, showcasing their unique personalities and comedic flair.
• David Wheeler humorously compares himself to famous figures like Kara Swisher and Jason Bateman, setting the tone for a fun, irreverent discussion about politics and culture.
• John Padora, the guest, dives deep into the political landscape of Colorado's 4th district, highlighting his grassroots approach to campaigning against Lauren Boebert.
• The conversation takes a serious turn as John shares his personal journey, including his struggles with addiction, emphasizing the importance of honesty and accountability in politics.
• Listeners learn about John's commitment to ethical leadership, promising to refuse lobbyist gifts and advocating for term limits to combat corruption in Congress.
• The episode wraps up with a call to action for listeners to support John’s campaign, reinforcing the idea that grassroots efforts can lead to significant political change.

Links referenced in this episode:

• padoraforcongress.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• American Muckrakers
• Apple
• Lumen
• Cook Political Report
• General Dynamics
• Boebert
• Lockheed Martin
• Raytheon