Direct Democracy with Chris Melody Fields Figueredo
03/26/2026 | 46 mins.
Today, as new polls show Trump's approvals at historic lows, we are getting ready to stand up against autocracy at No Kings III this Saturday! We are also celebrating a Democratic statehouse flip in the heart of Mordor (also known as Mar-a-lago). Then Chris Melody Fields Figueredo, the executive director of the Ballot Initiative Strategy Center, shares insights into the power of ballot measures, the fight against authoritarianism, and how community-led initiatives can drive meaningful change. Steve Linktree Jason Linktree ballot.org NoKings.org www.practivistpod.com Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason Berlin Produced by Steve Pierson and Trudi Roth
Today, Trump's war of choice in Iran continues as the cost of living here in America continues to rise. We talk about how you can help highlight his deeply unpopular policies and fight back against this regime’s fascist and failing efforts to subvert our democracy. Then Steve has a powerful conversation about “great replacement theory” with educator and author of the new book, “Chain of Ideas - The Origins of Our Authoritarian Age,” Dr. Ibram X. Kendi. Steve Linktree Jason Linktree nokings.org Chain of Ideas Book www.practivistpod.com Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason Berlin Produced by Steve Pierson and Trudi Roth Video Edited by Kanai Title Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw
Today we’ve got more primary results as Trump’s war of choice continues to cost lives and billions across the world and here at home. We also talk about the so-called “Save America Act” and the so-called “Markwayne Mullin” nomination. Then we hear from an amazing woman who is recruiting and training the next generation of women's herstory makers, the Executive Director of DemocraShe, our friend, Sarah Jakle. Steve Linktree Jason Linktree www.democrashe.org www.practivistpod.com Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason Berlin Produced by Steve Pierson and Trudi Roth Video Edited by Kanai Title Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw
Today we have our first primary results of the midterms! The midterms are here!!! So we will talk about the state of the Texas Senate race against a backdrop of our war with Iran and Trump’s extreme dog wagging. Then Steve has a great conversation with one of the leaders fighting to protect our communities from the epidemic of gun violence, President of Everytown for Gun Safety, John Feinblatt. Practivist Call in Number: (818) 824-4286 Steve Linktree Jason Linktree Everytown For Gun Safety www.practivistpod.com Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jason Berlin Produced by Steve Pierson and Trudi Roth Video Edited by Kanai Title Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw
Today Jess is back from DC and Steve is back from the CA Dem Convention so we catch up on all things Democrats and no things State of The Union (except for how badly it sucked). Of course we will also talk about Republicans’ attempts at voter suppression 2.0. Then Steve has a fascinating conversation with a woman who is shaking up a North Carolina Congressional race in a deep red district by running as a self proclaimed fake Republican, Kate Barr. Practivist Call in Number: (818) 824-4286 Jess Linktree Steve Linktree www.katebarrcanwin.com www.practivistpod.com Hosted by Steve Pierson and Jess Craven Produced by Steve Pierson and Trudi Roth Video Edited by Kanai Title Song by Steve Pierson performed by Melinda McGraw
Democracy is hanging by a thread, but our work as citizens is about being resilient and persistent so that together, we can build the future we want to see. That’s why every week we bring you The Practivist Pod — the practice of activism made practical.If you’re looking for ways to get engaged, or just looking for ways to stay sane… we want to help you navigate what comes next. Hosted by former candidate for CA Assembly and Executive Director of Blue Wave California, Steve Pierson, and grassroots organizer and Executive Director of Field Team 6, Jason Berlin. Each week on The Practivist Pod, we’ll share important conversations with changemakers, give you practical ways to make an impact, have some fun, and inspire hope.This is more than a podcast — it's a place for our community to grow our practice of advocacy for justice, equity, and progress. Action is the best antidote for anxiety, and joy is a revolutionary act, so subscribe to The Practivist Pod today.
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