Episodes

  • 21: The New Face Of Deportations

    21: The New Face Of Deportations
    Jan 30 2025
    Jamal Simmons and Nayyera Haq discuss the current state of immigration law in the United States with Allen Orr, an expert in the field. They explore the implications of recent executive orders, the role of the military in immigration enforcement, and the historical context of immigration policy. The discussion highlights the complexities of legal status, the impact of criminalization narratives, and the importance of community awareness and human rights in the immigration debate.
    Show More Show Less
    31 mins
  • 20: Can Bernie’s Guy Change The Democratic Party with Faiz Shakir

    20: Can Bernie’s Guy Change The Democratic Party with Faiz Shakir
    Jan 21 2025
    Nayyera and Jamal discuss the evolving landscape of American politics, particularly in light of the Trump administration. They explore the need for the Democratic Party to engage with outsiders, build community, and redefine its brand to resonate with the working class. Faiz Shakir, a candidate for DNC chair, shares his vision for a grassroots movement that prioritizes local issues and fosters genuine connections with constituents. The conversation also touches on the challenges of fundraising, the ideological direction of the party, and the current dynamics of the DNC chair race.
    Show More Show Less
    32 mins
  • 19: Optimism About The Climate Crisis

    19: Optimism About The Climate Crisis
    Jan 15 2025
    Nayyera & Jamal are joined this week by Reverend Kirsten Spalding to discuss the systemic challenges of climate change, emphasizing the role of corporate responsibility and fiduciary duty in addressing climate risks. She highlights the current backlash against ESG initiatives and the importance of data-driven decision-making in navigating political pressures. Despite the challenges, she expresses optimism about the commitment of investors and companies to create positive change for the planet.
    Show More Show Less
    30 mins
  • 18: Does Congress Even Matter

    18: Does Congress Even Matter
    Jan 7 2025
    Nayyera and Jamal discuss the current state of Congress, public perception, and the effectiveness of legislative actions. They explore the impact of COVID relief measures, taxation, corporate strategies, and immigration policies, emphasizing the need for local solutions and community engagement to address economic challenges.
    Show More Show Less
    24 mins
  • 17: 2024: A Year Of Outrages

    17: 2024: A Year Of Outrages
    Dec 31 2024
    In this episode of Trailblaze, hosts Nayyera Haq and Jamal Simmons reflect on the tumultuous events of 2024, discussing the implications of political privilege, the complexities of immigration, and the challenges of an aging leadership.
    They explore the cultural shifts brought about by women reclaiming their power and the impact of pop culture, particularly Disney, on societal narratives. The conversation emphasizes the need for authentic political representation and the importance of addressing uncomfortable truths in the political landscape.
    Show More Show Less
    30 mins
  • 16: Merry Christmas with Reverend Dad

    16: Merry Christmas with Reverend Dad
    Dec 25 2024
    Reverend Larry Simmons Sr joins his son Jamal Simmons and Nayyera Haq to explore the intersection of faith and politics in America. Why Trump attracts Christians and discuss the challenges faced by religious institutions, the role of faith in a secular society, and the need for tolerance and understanding among differing beliefs. The conversation also touches on the historical context of Christian nationalism and the importance of love and unity in navigating societal changes.
    Show More Show Less
    35 mins
  • 15: Will Mitch McConnell Save Us

    15: Will Mitch McConnell Save Us
    Dec 18 2024
    Nayyera & Jamal discuss the evolving landscape of American politics, focusing on Mitch McConnell's recent critiques of Donald Trump's foreign policy, the implications of RFK Jr.'s vaccine stance, and the dynamics surrounding Republican nominees. They also explore the potential role of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in Democratic leadership and the need for change within the party to address the current political climate.
    Show More Show Less
    28 mins
  • 14: Why Democrats Need An Attitude Adjustment with Terrance Woodbury

    14: Why Democrats Need An Attitude Adjustment with Terrance Woodbury
    Dec 10 2024
    Jamal Simmons and Terrance Woodbury analyze the results of the 2024 election, focusing on the significant erosion of support among men of color for the Democratic Party. They discuss the implications of this trend and the need for Democrats to adapt their strategies to better reflect the demographics of battleground states. The conversation also touches on the importance of addressing masculinity and the evolving role of men in society, as well as the necessity of shifting economic messaging from poverty reduction to wealth creation. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the need for a more inclusive and effective approach to coalition building within the Democratic Party.

    More Politicon videos and podcasts available on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@politicon

    Visit our website: http://politicon.com
    Show More Show Less
    19 mins