Let's Pod This

Let's Pod This

Proposed Changes to the Oklahoma City Charter

Sep 26 • 72 min

On the ballot this year are several changes to Oklahoma City’s governing document - the city charter. We’re joined by City Councilors JoBeth Hamon and James Cooper, municipal attorney Laura McDevitt, and Generation Citizen’s Elizabeth Sidler to discuss…

Oklahoma polling results and Inhofe’s weird ad

Sep 13 • 52 min

News9 just released the results of their most recent poll, and some of the results are downright surprising. We discuss them as well as the latest ad from Senator Jim Inhofe, which was also surprising (but for different reasons).

A Labor Day Civic Sermon

Sep 4 • 20 min

Happy Labor Day, listeners! We break from the usual format to pause & reflect on the origins of this holiday and share a “civic sermon” by Civics Con (civicscon.com) event in May 2020.

Do candidates really moderate after a primary?

Aug 28 • 70 min

We discuss some of the most notable results from this week’s primary run-off election, including: (1) Bice squeaks out a win over Neese for CD5 nomination (and what happens to Bice’s campaign now as she turns to face Congresswoman Horn in November), (2)…

What is going on with Oklahoma County?

Aug 22 • 55 min

The DNC goes virtual, Oklahoma County commissioners go rogue, and contrary to what the Governor has said, apparently the White House does have a whole bunch recommendations for how Oklahoma should be responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Oklahoma County Budget Board gets rowdy

Aug 16 • 57 min

Universities struggle to articulate what it is they offer to students and Oklahoma County has a budget board meeting go in an unexpected (and potentially unwise) direction.

Does Oklahoma need more CARES Act money?

Aug 7 • 69 min

While the usual partisan gridlock in Washington is holding up additional stimulus money for the entire country, we discuss whether or not Oklahoma really needs more money and some ideas on how to disrupt that two-party, partisan gridlock. Also: zombie…

A Plateau of Magicians

Jul 31 • 59 min

We discuss how the state and federal government continue to struggle to respond to COVID-19 (despite how they frame it). Meanwhile, significant movement in the criminal justice space: a ballot initiative qualifies for the ballot, the director of the…

Governor’s Chief of Staff resigns plus…aliens?

Jul 25 • 55 min

We discuss the possible reasoning behind and implications of the resignation of Governor Stitt’s Chief of Staff, Michael Junk, the state legislature announces interim studies, and…apparently aliens may actually exist? Links mentioned in this episode:…

Infection-in-Chief

Jul 17 • 56 min

Wow, what a week! Governor Stitt has COVID, cities are mandating masks, updates on SQ807 & SQ810, a lot of folks are down with PPP, the McGirt ruling breeds disagreement amongst the Five Tribes, and the food banks partnered with OESC to help help…

Masks and McGirt

Jul 10 • 61 min

The Supreme Court of the United States has ruled that 19 million acres of Oklahoma is indeed part of an Indian reservation. Legal correspondent Brian Jones joins us to discuss the potential implications of the McGirt vs. Oklahoma ruling, the continued…

What’s it like to be a poll worker?

Jul 3 • 58 min

Bailey shares her experience being a first-time poll worker and we recap the results of the 2020 state primary election.

Things are looking up, but not in a good way

Jun 26 • 54 min

The number of COVID-19 cases is up, attendance at President Trump’s campaign rally was down, problems with the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission are up, and a reminder that there’s an election going down…right now, actually.

It’s Juneteenth in the Big Town

Jun 19 • 65 min

Happy Juneteenth! We take a few minutes to discuss the history & significance of the holiday and then get into the big news of the week: COVID-19 numbers are WAY up and there’s going to be a huge campaign rally tomorrow. What could go wrong? Also,…

Mo’ Virus, Mo’ Problems

Jun 12 • 45 min

It’s been three months since the NBA suspended their season following the announcement that a member of the Utah Jazz tested positive for the novel coronavirus, a day that effectively marks the beginning of a new era in our lives. At the time that…

Black Lives Matter

Jun 5 • 66 min

In the two weeks since our last episode, the nation has erupted in protests following the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police. We stand with #BlackLivesMatter, and in this episode we have a discussion about racism, policy, and how we can do…

With This Pen, I Thee Veto

May 22 • 59 min

As the legislative session draws to a close, Governor Stitt had a busy week signing - and vetoing - a large number of bills. In doing so, the divide between the legislative and executive branches appears to be growing ever wider. What does that mean for…

The quadruple veto override…that wasn’t in the manual

May 15 • 55 min

When a quadruple veto override is the least notable thing that happens at the legislature in a given week, you know session must be drawing to a close. This week the Governor vetoed the budget plus three related bills, the legislature quickly voted to…

Vote by Mail Goes to Court

May 8 • 59 min

This week the Oklahoma Supreme Court struck down the notary requirement for absentee ballots, and three days later the legislature put it back. But that’s not all they did - they also extended the Governor’s emergency powers under CHEPA for another month…

Who’s down with PPE?

May 1 • 46 min

The State seems to be having a hard time acquiring personal protective equipment (PPE), and that has led to some…questionable purchase decisions and a forthcoming audit of the state Department of Health. Also, it looks like the state budget will be…

Revenue failures, people suing the government, and look, the state is reopening!

Apr 24 • 59 min

A whole lot has happened over the last week! From declarations of revenue failures at the state and city level, to civic groups suing the election board, to legislative candidates who don’t actually live in Oklahoma, to - wait for it - the state is slowly…

Four Plans to End the Pandemic

Apr 17 • 77 min

We spend a little extra time discussing not just the current state of the COVID-19 pandemic but how we get to the end of the pandemic, specifically four proposals for how we get there. SHOW NOTES State of play in Oklahoma Avg Tests per day: 1440…

Budget Battle: Stitt vs Literally Everyone

Apr 10 • 48 min

Just when it seemed like the 2020 #okleg session was going to be smooth & uneventful, budget negotiations took an unexpected turn this week when the Governor threatened across-the-board cuts all state agencies if his “digital transformation” project isn’t…

The most powerful Governor in history?

Apr 4 • 58 min

Governor Stitt invoked the Catastrophic Health Emergency Powers Act (CHEPA), which has never been used before and quite possibly grants him very broad powers. Attorney Brian Jones joins us to explain why that may mean Stitt is the most powerful Governor…

Legislative Leadership in Lockdown

Mar 27 • 60 min

Most of country is now working from home, and that includes the state legislature. We’re joined by Oklahoma House minority leader, Representative Emily Virgin, and House majority floor leader, Representative Jon Echols, to talk about how #okleg is working…

Everyone wants some Moxie

Mar 21 • 68 min

America is officially shut down, and that includes Oklahoma. Except for, you know, a poor response to the global pandemic, the state legislature amending the Open Meeting Act, elections being delayed, Senator Infofe suspiciously selling some stock, and…

(State of) Emergency Pod

Mar 16 • 50 min

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, a State of Emergency has been declared at the city, state, and federal level. These declarations have far-reaching impact and consequences and, frankly, we are in uncharted waters. We talk through what they mean for…

The Coronavirus Has Arrived

Mar 13 • 45 min

We discuss the coronavirus outbreak that is sweeping the country (and how it’s being handled here in Oklahoma), a bill to outlaw child marriages that both failed and passed in the same week, a cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for state employees, and an…

Just How Super Was Tuesday?

Mar 6 • 49 min

Super Tuesday has come & gone…but just how ‘super’ was it this year? We also talk about the Oklahoma response to COVID-19 (aka coronavirus), especially in the face of the Governor’s plan to consolidate health agencies AND his just-announced plan to…expand…

Process and the Primary

Feb 28 • 63 min

We discuss the process of lawmaking (both from inside and outside the legislature), what happens when that process is circumvented, what the Super Tuesday primary looks like for Oklahoma.

Constitutional convention…or Pandora’s Box?

Feb 23 • 59 min

In addition to the usual recap of this week at the #okleg, we debate the risks & rewards of the state holding a Constitutional Convention, give a status update on the six ballot initiatives that are floating around, and highlight some important events…

Love’s Executioner

Feb 14 • 65 min

We’re two weeks into the legislative session, an d bills are starting to move. Some are alive, a few are dead (or at least mostly dead), and others…well, it’s still a bit too early to tell. This week Representative Jason Dunnington (HD88) joins the crew…

2020 State of the State

Feb 9 • 53 min

Scott is joined by our newest co-host, Bailey Perkins, to discuss the finer points of Governor Stitt’s second State of the State address.

2020 Session Preview

Jan 24 • 73 min

The Oklahoma legislative session starts in less than two weeks, so we’re giving listeners an update-in-brief so that you are ready and prepared. Updates: - Stone & Smalley have resigned: - Tribal gaming - Healthcare reform - Marijuana - Redistricting -…

It’s our 2020 Predict-O-Rama!

Jan 2 • 55 min

Think you know what bills will pass and what bills will fail? Great, because it’s time for our annual Predict-O-Rama game! Scott and I run thru the slate of options, and now it’s your turn to vote! Link to the game: https://forms.gle/peFv2FMSWpZPjqpQ6

2019 wrap-up…and a look ahead

Dec 11, 2019 • 45 min

Did Governor Stitt deliver on the plans and promises he listed during his 2019 State of the State address? We break it down and then look ahead at what to expect from the 2020 legislative session.

People, Not Politicians! (Gerrymandering Oklahoma series #5)

Oct 28, 2019 • 41 min

BIG NEWS! A rag-tag group of Oklahomans have banded together to form “People Not Politicians,” a nonpartisan organization that has filed a ballot initiative to amend the state constitution to create an independent redistricting commission and end…

Should student athletes be paid? (with Peter Daggett)

Oct 10, 2019 • 54 min

Much to the chagrin of the NCAA, the state of California recently passed the Fair Pay to Play Act, which law permits collegiate athletes to hire agents and make money from endorsements. A similar bill will likely be filed in Oklahoma next year, so we sat…

Power to the People with Katie Fahey(Gerrymandering Oklahoma series #4)

Oct 5, 2019 • 32 min

This is the fourth and final episode in our “Gerrymandering Oklahoma” series. By now we know what gerrymandering is, how and why it happens, and a few ways to prevent it. But how, exactly, do you get it to stop when the political system is rigged against…

Ratf**ked (Gerrymandering Oklahoma series #3)

Sep 18, 2019 • 48 min

This is the third episode in our “Gerrymandering Oklahoma” series. We wanted to learn more about gerrymandering around the country, so we wanted to talk to a man who literally wrote the book on the topic, David Daley. He is the author of “Ratf**cked: Why…

A Cause we all have in Common (Gerrymandering Oklahoma series #2)

Sep 6, 2019 • 27 min

This is the second episode in our “Gerrymandering Oklahoma” mini series. Now that we know how legislative redistricting is done and how that process often leads to gerrymandering, we want to talk broadly about how states can prevent politicians from…

GADDIEMANDERED! (Gerrymandering Oklahoma series #1)

Aug 30, 2019 • 56 min

This is the first episode of our “Gerrymandering Oklahoma” mini series. We’re joined by OU political science professor Keith Gaddie to discuss the ins and outs of gerrymandering and the legislative redistricting process. (Hint: It’s super important and…

Emergency Pod: Drug Money

Aug 27, 2019 • 12 min

The judge has ruled: Oklahoma has won their lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson, and for that the state will receive $572 million…or will they?

Run Sally Run

Aug 24, 2019 • 52 min

Quick updates on the two ballot initiatives (SQ802 & 803) that are collecting signatures right now, plus we’re joined by Sara Jane Rose and Alyssa Fisher from Sally’s List to talk about recruiting and training women to run for public office. (Psst - you…

Reforming the Law (CJR series #3)

Aug 6, 2019 • 46 min

This is the third episode in our three-part series about criminal justice reform in Oklahoma. In this episode, we speak with state Representative Garry Mize about the legacy of state questions 780, 781, and 788, and what the legislative path to meaningful…

Fines, Fees, and Fallacies (CJR series #2)

Jul 25, 2019 • 63 min

This is the second episode in our three-part series about criminal justice reform in Oklahoma. In this episode, local defense attorney Brian Jones walks us through each of the steps involved in the typical criminal legal process, including details about…

Let’s Start with the Data (CJR series #1)

Jul 19, 2019 • 30 min

This is the first episode in our three part series on the criminal justice system in Oklahoma. We’re joined by policy experts Damion Shade & Ryan Gentzler to lay a foundation of data about the Oklahoma criminal justice system, how we got here, and why…

Let Bartlet Be Bartlet (live panel discussion)

Jun 24, 2019 • 45 min

Audio from the panel discussion following our “The West Wing” Watch Party, recorded live on May 15, 2019, featuring Donelle Harder (Gov. Stitt’s spokesperson), Phil Bacharach (Chief of Staff to State Superintendent Joy Hofmeister), and Steve Hill (Chief…

The Politics of Pride

Jun 22, 2019 • 51 min

We’re joined by two members of OKC’s LGBTQ community - one a Republican and the other a Democrat - to talk about how they got involved in politics, what Pride means to them, and how they navigate the waters that contain those two things.

2019 Predict-o-Rama Results (with Rep. Zack Taylor)

Jun 17, 2019 • 56 min

We review the results of our 2019 #okleg Predict-o-Rama game and visit with one of the winners, Rep. Zack Taylor from Seminole.

Can we run OKDHS like a business?

Jun 8, 2019 • 63 min

We discuss the pros & cons of Governor Stitt replacing the veteran director of DHS with a young venture capitalist, Justin Brown. Special guest: attorney Brian Ted Jones.

The Art of Activism

May 31, 2019 • 58 min

We’re joined by Oklahoma state Senator Carri Hicks and local actress/producer/activist Cacky Poarch to get their perspective on the 2019 legislative session and learn about “Faces of the 47th: The Art of Activism,” a documentary feature film debuting at…

Sine Die (with Rep. Josh West and Rep. Marcus McEntire)

May 24, 2019 • 88 min

Both chambers of #okleg have effectively adjourned, but did they complete all their work? We talk about what was left on the table and also visit with Representatives Josh West and Marcus McEntire about their experience in the legislature.

“I Stand With Pruitt!”

May 17, 2019 • 67 min

The #okleg reaches a budget agreement, the Governor sold his airplane, Andy’s bill was vetoed, and we have not one but TWO Pruitt Watches. The end of session must be near!

Mo Money, Mo Problems (w/ Jonathan Dodson)

May 11, 2019 • 59 min

As #okleg nears a budget agreement (or ARE they??), we turn to the municipal level and discuss designing safer, “complete” streets with guest Jonathan Dodson.

BudgetWatch 2019

May 4, 2019 • 59 min

With less than a month ‘til the end of session, we discuss rumors about the budget, the status of criminal justice reform, and Governor Stitt’s use of the veto. We also curse more than usual. Earmuffs, kids. #SSGOTV.

Government overreach!

Apr 26, 2019 • 69 min

From map data to prison data, from county government feuds to former legislators back in the news, from Medicaid expansion plans to a ban on bans, we’ve got a little something for everyone this week!

Rally for Coverage (w/ Sabine Brown & Carly Putnam)

Apr 19, 2019 • 38 min

Sabine Brown (Together Oklahoma) and Carly Putnam (Oklahoma Policy Institute) join us to review the current state of healthcare in Oklahoma and their upcoming “Rally for Coverage.”

Legislative Update and Texts with Mom (with Effie Craven and Jason Dunnington)

Apr 16, 2019 • 63 min

Special guests Effie Craven and Rep. Jason Dunnington join the show to discuss where the legislature is with various bills and what it’s like to text their moms.

Opioid Settlement, Round 1 (with Attorney General Mike Hunter)

Apr 11, 2019 • 44 min

Oklahoma has sued more than a dozen pharmaceutical companies over their creation & marketing of addictive opioid medications. Last week we learned that one company, Purdue Pharma, was settling out of court for $270 million. We sat down with the state’s…

Talkin’ Tourism (with Lt. Gov Matt Pinnell)

Apr 8, 2019 • 46 min

Recorded live at Missy’s Donuts in Guthrie, OK, we sit down with Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell to discuss his approach to the Lt. Gov position and his other position as Secretary of Tourism & Branding.

Privileged Pollution and Secret Sh*t

Apr 6, 2019 • 52 min

This week we discuss a bill to keep pollution audits private, cleaning up the voter rolls, and the high cost of transporting people with mental illness. Just a typical week in Oklahoma, right?

Dead Candidates Society (with Megan Funderburk & Bo Broadwater)

Mar 30, 2019 • 57 min

Should deceased candidates be allowed to remain on the ballot? We discuss the implications of that situation along with independent redistricting and the structure & finances of the Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES).

Mid-Session Update

Mar 21, 2019 • 57 min

As bills move from one chamber to the other, we take a look at what legislation has been signed, what’s [mostly] dead, and what are still alive. Special guest: Bo Broadwater from The Journal Record Legislative Report.

Gravel Tax and Sunshine Week (with Tres Savage & Joe Hight)

Mar 16, 2019 • 48 min

Tres Savage from NonDoc explains the finer points of why Oklahoma counties should be allowed to tax the production of aggregates (i.e. rocks and gravel) and we visit with Joe Hight, chairman of Freedom of Information Oklahoma, to discuss Sunshine Week,…

Religion & Politics (with Jon Middendorf)

Mar 13, 2019 • 57 min

Most of us were taught that it’s impolite to discuss religion & politics, but in Oklahoma, those topics are often intertwined. In the eyes of Jon Middendorf, pastor at @okcfirst, the gospel “has to have skin on it,” and by that measure, it is inherently a…

Auditing Oddity and Agency Appointments (with Julia Kirt)

Mar 9, 2019 • 47 min

Are multiple, concurrent audits of Oklahoma’s Medicaid program really necessary? Plus we’re joined by Senator Julia Kirt to discuss if allowing the Governor to appoint agency directors more or less transparent than the current system of boards.

Why “Women’s Issues” Matter (with Liz Charles and Bo Broadwater)

Feb 28, 2019 • 68 min

The first month of the 57th legislature has been dominated by guns and abortion, and this week has been no exception. We’re joined by the Liz Charles of the Oklahoma Women’s Coalition and Bo Broadwater of The Journal Record to discuss permitless carry,…

Show Me the Money

Feb 23, 2019 • 68 min

The State of Oklahoma has some extra money this year…or does it? We discuss how much, where it’s going, and status updates on bills about guns, HIV education, and Medicaid expansion.

Guns, Weed, and #oklegvalentines

Feb 16, 2019 • 81 min

We discuss the loosening of gun laws, find out who actually writes bills, and chat with Senator Greg McCortney about the details of “Unity Bill” that will tweak Oklahoma’s new medical marijuana law. Plus a few tidbits about influenza among animals.

Kevin Calvey & The Blue Eyed Butcher

Feb 8, 2019 • 76 min

County commissioners who are also lobbyists, Stitt’s first State of the State, and a surprisingly detailed recounting of a Lifetime movie. (with Krystal Yoseph & Grant Hermes.)

Ep. 65 | All About Agendas

Feb 2, 2019 • 57 min

This week it seemed like every party and organization released their legislative agenda - including Let’s Fix this. So we decided to compare & contrast the big ones to parse out what policies we think will actually get passed this session.

Ep. 64 | 2019 Predict-O-Rama

Jan 26, 2019 • 70 min

We’re joined by Krystal Yoseph to discuss Governor Stitt’s first Executive Orders and cast our predictions for the 2019 Oklahoma legislative session.

Ep. 63 | New Governor, Who Dis?

Jan 16, 2019 • 74 min

Andy & Scott play a game of “OK, Stop!” with Governor Stitt’s inauguration address, breaking it down phrase by phrase.

Ep 62 | Election Recap

Nov 18, 2018 • 44 min

Quick recap of the election, what we think happened, and where this leaves us to start the 2019 legislative session.

Ep. 61 | Which races we’re watching

Nov 4, 2018 • 42 min

We give a quick run-down of the state races we’re watching this Election Day and which counties our forecast model says might be the most competitive.

Ep. 60 | Model Thoughts and How to Make a Voting Plan

Nov 2, 2018 • 60 min

Big news! We reveal our election projection data model and who may (or may not) win the Governor’s race. We also talk you through how to make a voting plan, which is more helpful & imporant than you might think!

Ep. 59 | CD5 Debate and another Labor Commissioner candidate

Oct 26, 2018 • 47 min

A very brief recap of the debate between candidates for US Congress, incumbent Steve Russell (R) and challenger Kendra Horn (D), followed by an interview with Republican candidate for Labor Commissioner, Leslie Osborn.

Ep. 58 | On the Road Again

Oct 23, 2018 • 44 min

We catch up with candidates who have been travelling the state together during their campaigns - Democratic candidate for Labor Commissioner Fred Dorrell and Democratic candidate for Insurance Commissioner Kimberly Fobbs.

Ep. 57 | 2018 State Questions Guide

Oct 17, 2018 • 61 min

We discuss the pros and cons of each of the five state questions that are on your ballots this year.

Ep. 56 | Everybody likes sandwiches (with Mark Myles)

Oct 11, 2018 • 79 min

A brief update on Oklahoma’s medical marijuana situation, a discussion of partisan symbolism, and a visit with Democratic candidate for Attorney General, Mark Myles.

Ep. 55 | Commissioner Candidate Chat

Oct 5, 2018 • 66 min

We sit down with two candidates running for statewide office - Kimberly Fobbs, who is running for Insurance Commissioner, and Fred Dorrell, who is running for Labor Commissioner. #Votelahoma

Ep. 54 | Gubernatorial Debate Recap

Sep 25, 2018 • 34 min

We recap the the Oklahoman’s gubernatorial debate that aired tonight. Pretty self explanatory. You saw that coming, though, right?

Ep. 53 | Someone should poll our dogs

Sep 24, 2018 • 80 min

We visit with our Washington correspondent Effie Craven and local restauranteur & Democratic candidate for OK County Treasurer, Daniel Chae.

Ep. 52 | Capitol Reporters, Vol. 1 (with Grant Hermes and Sean Murphy)

Sep 14, 2018 • 69 min

We visit with two of Oklahoma’s intrepid journalists to get an inside look into what it’s like to cover the State Capitol and politics in general in today’s political climate.

Ep. 51 | Too Close for Missiles

Sep 7, 2018 • 81 min

Andy & Scott are joined by Commander Scott Downey, USN, Retired, for what starts out as a discussion of current events and the run-off election but what ends up being a rather vulnerable conversation between a liberal and a conservative.

Ep. 50 | Sit-down with the Solicitor General

Aug 31, 2018 • 66 min

Did you know Oklahoma has a Solicitor General? (We didn’t.) Do you have any idea what they do? (We definitely didn’t.) Join us for an insightful conversation with Oklahoma’s Solicitor General, Mithun Mansinghani.

Ep 49 | Labor Commissioner 101 with Leslie Osborn

Aug 23, 2018 • 42 min

We sit down with GOP candidate for Labor Commissioner and Oklahoma Representative Leslie Osborn to find out what, exactly, the position does in our state.

Ep. 48 | Words Have Meaning (with Daniela Busciglio)

Aug 16, 2018 • 71 min

We’re joined by academic linguist and political consultant Daniela Busciglio to discuss why words matter and how advocates can use science to help us get our point across more effectively.

Ep. 47 | Post-mortem with Senator AJ Griffin

Aug 11, 2018 • 76 min

Outgoing state senator AJ Griffin shares about her experience in the state legislature - the victories, the disappointments, why she’s leaving, and what comes next. There’s a short Pruitt Watch, and also - our mics didn’t work properly, so part of the…

Ep. 46 | You’re in charge while I’m gone

Aug 2, 2018 • 91 min

As the primary run-off nears, we’re joined by Republican candidates for Lt. Governor, Dana Murphy and Matt Pinnell, to discuss their perspectives on what that position actually does and their plan for it, should they be elected.

Ep. 45 | Carpathians, Kardashians, and Cardassians

Jul 30, 2018 • 71 min

We manage to give you a recap this week’s Oklahoma political news while also being distracted by Ghostbusters, Star Trek, and easily accessible barrier protection.

Ep 44 | Reefer Madness Continues plus an interview with the State Auditor (feat. Gary Jones)

Jul 20, 2018 • 70 min

We discuss the bizarre things that happened this week in Oklahoma’s medical marijuana saga, and then we speak with State Auditor Gary Jones to learn about the role of that position in our state government.

Ep 43: A doctor, a lawyer, and a therapist walk into a bar

Jul 14, 2018 • 59 min

Ep 43: “A doctor, a lawyer, and a therapist walk into a bar.” Scott (a doctor) and Andy (a therapist) have an unusually candid discussion about SQ788 (medical marijuana), ridiculous voter outrage, and how the issue is playing out in Oklahoma. The lawyer…

Ep 42 - Everybody gets a run-off

Jul 6, 2018 • 78 min

We recap the primary election and discuss the crazy high number of run-off elections, plus the final DC edition of “Pruitt Watch” and phone calls with Democratic nominee for Governor, Drew Edmondson, and Election Board PIO, Bryan Dean.

Ep. 41: Live Pod of the Primaries

Jun 27, 2018 • 109 min

Recorded live at Oak & Ore, we visit voters & candidates to get their experience and response to the elections. Featuring Kayla & Anna from Localities OKC, Amy Curran & crew from Generation Citizen, Brett Dickerson from OKC Free Press, JoBeth Hamon, Bo…

Ep. 40 - Fact-checking cannabis claims

Jun 21, 2018 • 47 min

We test out some new audio gear and help explain some of the nuances of SQ788 with a quick fact-check of some of the most notable claims about the proposed law and medical marijuana itself.

Ep. 39: Judging judges, plus political wine pairings! (with Nichole Gillett and Clayton Bahr)

Jun 17, 2018 • 91 min

Andy & Scott are joined by attorney (and LFT board president) Nichole Moisant Gillett and wine guru Clayton Bahr to help explain the judicial positions that are up for election this month and what wines pair best with politics. (Bonus: all of our spouses…

Ep. 38: GOP Labor Commissioner Debate (with Tres Savage)

Jun 11, 2018 • 71 min

Andy and Scott are joined by Tres Savage from NonDoc to recap the debate we held this week between Republican candidates for Labor Commissioner.

Ep. 37 | From 56th to 57th

Jun 1, 2018 • 61 min

Andy and Scott are back from vacation! We take a quick look back at the 56th Oklahoma Legislature, discuss Governor Fallin’s surprising vetoes of several bills, and give an update on the OSDH debacle. Then we lay out the plan ahead as we move into…

Ep. 36 | Bonus episode: From Walkout to What’s Next - Day 2 [Live]

May 25, 2018 • 118 min

The second of two special episodes from our “From Walkout to What’s Next?” events. This one was recorded live on April 23, 2018 at The Patriarch in Edmond, OK.

Ep. 35 | Bonus episode: From Walkout to What’s Next - Day 1 [Live]

May 18, 2018 • 109 min

The first of two special episodes from our “From Walkout to What’s Next?” events. This one was recorded live on April 22, 2018 and features guests Sabine Brown (Oklahoma Policy Institute) and Liz Waggoner (Oklahoma Women’s Coalition).

Ep. 34 | We Have a Winner!

May 12, 2018 • 32 min

Good news, Fixers - we have a winner to our 2018 Oklahoma Legislature Predict-o-Rama! And so, we take a quick look at what happened to the proposed legislation that was a part of the game and discuss what to expect from #LetsPodThis during the legislative…

Sine Dead

May 8, 2018 • 49 min

We finally - FINALLY - have an end to the 56th legislature…or do we? Regardless, we recap what happened during the last week of session, including three of the most contentious bills heard all session.

What would fully funded look like?

Apr 29, 2018 • 78 min

Intrepid local reporter Grant Hermes joins as special co-host to discuss the 2019 state budget. Grant also shares what he discovered when he called all state agencies to ask how much money they need to truly be “fully funded” and what that would actually…

A Whole Lot of Filing Going On

Apr 23, 2018 • 44 min

We discuss the record number of people filing to run for office, what may happen regarding a tax on wind energy production, and give our best guesses about what will happen over the last few weeks of session.

Walkout ends…so what’s next?

Apr 14, 2018 • 60 min

As the walkout winds down, we wonder “What’s Next?” for education advocates and the legislature. We discuss those questions and the record number of people who have filed to run for office.

Buyer’s Remorse

Mar 30, 2018 • 40 min

The Oklahoma legislature raised taxes for the first time since 1990, but has already repealed some of the increases. We discuss how that all went down and what it means for the future, as well as the remaining potential for a teacher walk out.

Emergency Pod - OK House passed a tax increase

Mar 28, 2018 • 30 min

For the first time since 1990, the OK House of Representatives passed a revenue package by achieving the required 75% majority of votes. The package funds a pay raise for teachers and public employees, but not everyone is happy, and the future of the bill…

Education & Partisanship (with Senator Greg McCortney)

Mar 23, 2018 • 84 min

We discuss the HIV education bill and compare the various plans to increase education funding. We also chat with Oklahoma state Senator Greg McCortney about social media usage, education funding, partisanship, and his advice on how voters can engage with…

These books were made for walking

Mar 18, 2018 • 96 min

With a teacher walk-out looming on the horizon, we visited with several teachers to get their thoughts and feelings on the subject. Scott and guest co-host John Rorke also discuss the weekly run-down of OK Capitol news, including the announcement that…

Post-partisanship, co-ed dorms, and the end of special session.

Mar 6, 2018 • 64 min

Special sends draws to an end, giving way to the 2018 regular session bills, which include some good ones, bad ones, and downright odd ones. We also begin a discussion on post-partisanship in this highly partisan era.

Will you be my legislative valentine?

Feb 17, 2018 • 52 min

The debate (and fate) of the Step Up plan, more Health Department shenanigans, unlikely partisan team-ups, and some deliciously nerdy #oklegvalentines tweets.

State of the State (Live Recording)

Feb 8, 2018 • 35 min

Following Governor Fallin’s unusually brief State of State address, we visit with two voters (Nickolai & Courtney), a policy wonk (David Blatt), and a state representative (Marcus McEntire) to get a variety of responses to what the Governor had to say.…

Groundhog Day Predictions

Feb 2, 2018 • 40 min

We look for our shadows and cast our predictions for the upcoming State of the State address and legislative session. There’s also a discussion of “Friends” and Andy impersonates a woodland creature. Remember: on February 5th we’ll be recording at the…

Mark your calendars!

Feb 2, 2018 • 1 min

The 2018 Legislative session is upon us, and Let’s Fix This has a bunch of great events scheduled for this spring. Here’s a quick preview, and we hope to see you there.

2018 Bill Round-Up

Jan 29, 2018 • 58 min

From education to alcohol and from sunscreen to feral hogs, we discuss some of the most interesting bills filed for the 2018 legislative session. Special guests Hayley Jones of CCOSA and LFT board member Effie Craven join in on the fun.

More people are stepping up, but not necessarily to vote.

Jan 23, 2018 • 37 min

We discuss developments and implications of the proposed “Step Up Oklahoma” plan and take a look at the recently-released voter registration numbers. Oklahoma is losing voters!

Is the business community trying to step up?

Jan 12, 2018 • 39 min

Scott is back from holiday and getting caught up on the fact that the legislature is still in their second special session. We review the Step Up Oklahoma Coalition’s suggested plan for fixing the state and begin discussing two of the State Questions that…

New Leaders Council

Jan 6, 2018 • 25 min

While Scott is on holiday, Andy sits down with co-director of theOklahoma chapter of the New Leaders Council (NLC), Ashten Hughes, as well as an NLC Fellow (and friend of the pod), Anna Facci. We also announce the dates of our Capitol Days for this spring!

What Happened at the Health Department?

Dec 22, 2017 • 55 min

The Oklahoma State Dept of Health needed $30 million in order to make payroll last month. What the heck is going on over there? We analyze two weeks of testimony and break down a timeline presented this week by a former health department official.

Was Jesus a Democrat?

Dec 17, 2017 • 49 min

Part 2 of our series about the relationship of politics in community. We’re joined by biblical scholar and pastor Marty Michelson, to discuss another divisive topic - how Christianity fits in with politics and community.

How Politics Create and Divide Our Sense of Community, Part 1

Dec 8, 2017 • 37 min

Inspired by a recent of episode of “OnBeing with Krista Tippett,” Andy and Scott, along with special guest John Rorke, wrestle with the impact that politics can have on our sense of community.

Potpourri

Dec 1, 2017 • 59 min

In this catch-all episode, Scott and Andy discuss Governor Fallin’s Executive Orders, the plans announced by two gubernatorial candidates, Thanksgiving travel, and a few other things.

Emergency Pod: Fallin vetoed the budget!

Nov 19, 2017 • 38 min

We discuss the implications of (and responses to) Governor Fallin’s veto of the Plan B budget bill.

Veteran’s Day and a Really Bad Bill

Nov 17, 2017 • 71 min

We’re joined by US Army Specialist (and LFT board member) John Rorke and discuss the “cash & cuts” bills passed by the OK House this week.

SQ640 Strikes Again!

Nov 9, 2017 • 60 min

We break down the failed “Grand Bargain” revenue bill, why it failed, and what might happen next.

Small progress, small episode.

Nov 3, 2017 • 33 min

Seven weeks into Special Session, the legislature has finally passed one, small revenue measure. And we try to not talk about a representative calling public employees terrorists.

A Rally and a Plan

Oct 27, 2017 • 51 min

We discuss the Republican budget plan announced this week and hear from people attending the rally supporting mental health & substance abuse treatment.

Worst Case Scenario

Oct 20, 2017 • 50 min

We discuss the potentially devastating cuts to ODMHSAS and play the first round of “Will the Governor Veto?”

Merton, Norquist, and Bennett with the Good Hair

Oct 15, 2017 • 42 min

We discuss the budget deal the wasn’t, Grover Norquist’s anti-tax pledge, and an interview with Rep. Forrest Bennett.

Taxation thru the eyes of an oil tycoon

Oct 6, 2017 • 55 min

Medicaid cuts, health department furloughs, and then an insightful discussion about taxation in the oil & gas industry and their role in fixing Oklahoma’s budget with Joe Warren of OEPA.

It’s an “Extraordinary” Session

Sep 29, 2017 • 49 min

We discuss what happened the first week of the special session, visit with some advocates at the Capitol, and talk with President of the LFT Board, Nichole Moisant Gillett.

Pre-Special Session with Scott Melson & Senator David Holt

Sep 23, 2017 • 47 min

Recap of what’s happened in #okleg since last episode, plus interviews with Let’s Fix This board member Scott Melson and state Senator David Holt.

Supreme Court fallout and Capitol Building Restoration

Sep 14, 2017 • 36 min

We chat with former state representative Joe Dorman regarding the state Supreme Court striking down the cigarette “fee” and discuss the massive State Capitol restoration with project manager Trait Thompson.

When is a tax called a fee?

Aug 22, 2017 • 51 min

Our first episode! We discuss the origins of Let’s Fix This and the Oklahoma Supreme Court cases surrounding the constitutionality of three revenue measures.