Episodes

The Briefcase: Transylvania University's DACA controversy, Betsy Devos, and Hillary Clinton

This week, Betsy DeVos announced her intention to open a process that will lead to changed regulations for publicly-funded campuses responding to sexual assault allegations under Title IX. We discuss this announcement, a variety of social media hot topics, and Sarah's trip to Washington D.C.  Please consider supporting Pantsuit Politics through a monthly contribution that will allow you to access the secret garden of content on Patreon. We'd also love to hear from you if you're in a relationship with someone who has completely different political views than you. Email your voice memos to sarah@pantsuitpoliticsshow.com and beth@pantsuitpoliticsshow.com.  Thanks so much to our sponsors for this episode:  Joan Osborne’s brand-new album, “Songs of Bob Dylan,” features 13 Bob Dylan covers that span his entire career – including "Tangled Up in Blue," "Rainy Day Women," "Quinn the Eskimo," and more. For tour dates and more information, check out JoanOsborne.com. Get Joan Osborne’s “Songs of Bob Dylan” now on Amazon. ModCloth is your go-to spot for fashion as unique as you. Whip up your wardrobe with quirky prints and classic silhouettes. Make every day extraordinary by going to modcloth.com and entering the code PANTSUIT to receive $30 off your purchase of $100 or more.  Ellevest is the online investment platform for women where you can invest in specific life goals such as buying a house, starting a business, or retiring comfortably. Ellevest gives you a free financial plan — customized for you, based on where you are now and where you want to go with your finances. Go to ellevest.com/pantsuit to get $100 toward your first funded goal when you sign up with Ellevest.  The Pearls  We briefly review the history of Title IX (also named the Patsy Takemoto Mink Equal Opportunity in Education Act) before discussing Betsy DeVos's announcement that she'll be reviewing and replacing the Obama administration's guidance on campus sexual assault. We talk about the difficulty of grappling with both the criminal and non-criminal aspects of harassment, the impact public discussion has on victims, and the damage that occurs when accusations are proven to be false.  We also talk about some of the topics making the social media rounds:  We don't all need to issue an opinion on Hillary Clinton's book.  It would be great for us to stop blaming weather events on people with whom we disagree. It would also be great to approach climate change discussions through the prism of problem-solving.  The President made a deal with "Chuck and Nancy." Beth wishes we could talk about this without pretending that he has finally pivoted. Sarah hopes he might turn the corner because he loves the positive coverage.  We think it's bananas that anyone describes Colin Kaepernick as "bad for business." This conversation reminds us of an excellent editorial about how there's no perfect protest. To compliment the other side, Beth compliments Senator Dick Durbin for his persistent work on immigration. Sarah compliments the Kentucky Republican legislative delegation.    The Suit  Sarah joined 43 officials and citizens of Paducah, KY, in Washington D.C. for a whirlwind visit. We discuss:  Her experience of the National Museum of African American History and Culture Her discussion with Senator Rand Paul regarding American military action in Yemen Representative John Yarmuth's commitment to collegiality  Her experience of lobbying Secretaries Elaine Chao and Rick Perry  Listening to (health care hero) Atul Gwande discuss the opioid crisis  The Heels  Beth talks about learning from her children that we are all too busy. Sarah discusses her continued house-hunting.   

Sarah is in Washington D.C. as part of her #CommissionerHolland duties, so this episode features two interviews. First, Beth talks with Angie Ferguson, a Kentucky state judicial secretary (and fellow Phi Mu and Transylvania University alum) about the public pension crisis. Then, Beth talks with Zahava Stadler, Manager of Policy and Research at EdBuild, about school funding, inequality, and new ways to think about education.  Thanks so much to our sponsors for this episode:  ModCloth is your go-to spot for fashion as unique as you. Whip up your wardrobe with quirky prints and classic silhouettes. Make every day extraordinary by going to modcloth.com and entering the code PANTSUIT to receive $30 off your purchase of $100 or more.  Third Love. Stop tugging at your bra straps and second-guessing your size.  Go to thirdlove.com/pantsuit now to get your perfect ThirdLove bra… and try it for 30 days! Angie Ferguson has been with the Kentucky state court system for 13 years. During that time, she has paid into Kentucky's non-hazardous workers' pension system. Angie recognizes that something has to give in our benefits system. She also knows that we aren't paying public workers enough to reasonably expect to shift all of the risk and burden to individuals. She gives us some live Friday feedback in this episode.  Zahava Stadler is the Manager of Policy and Research at EdBuild, a national non-profit focused on bringing common sense solutions to school funding. Zahava and Beth discuss how we accept real property tax funding at the local level for schools as part of the natural order, and, in doing so, contribute to an unequal school system that fails many of our children. 

Unfunded pension obligations have risen to $1.9 trillion from $292 billion since 2007. Today we talk about public pension systems, partisanship, and problem-solving. In the Pearls, we discuss reports that President Trump will end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program ("DACA") and North Korea's hydrogen bomb test. In the Heels, we talk about Sarah's upcoming trip to Washington, D.C. and Beth's life decisions.  We had the honor of talking with Branden Harvey for his inspiring podcast, Sounds Good, while we were in Nashville. Check out our conversation on nuance and empathy. We also hope that you'll consider supporting Pantsuit Politics. We're so close to our goal and can't wait to celebrate with a mini-series on living in a more nuanced way.  Thanks so much to our sponsors for this episode:  Away offers high-quality luggage that is designed to be resilient, resourceful, and essential to the way you travel. Available in nine colors and four sizes – including Carry-On sizes that are compliant with all major US airlines – the Away suitcase is lightweight and unrivaled in strength and impact resistance. For $20 off a suitcase, visit Away and use promo code PANTSUIT during checkout! Lola tampons are made from 100% cotton and BPA free applicators (or you can go applicator-free for an even more environmentally-friendly approach). Because you're the expert on your body, Lola's subscription model is completely flexible and customizable. Founded by women and for women, Lola tampons make your month better. Enter the code Pantsuit at checkout to get 60% off your first order.  ModCloth is your go-to spot for fashion as unique as you. Whip up your wardrobe with quirky prints and classic silhouettes. Make every day extraordinary by going to modcloth.com and entering the code PANTSUIT to receive $30 off your purchase of $100 or more.  The Pearls This weekend, reports surfaced that President Trump will end DACA, which President Obama enacted via executive order in June 2012. DACA provides a renewable period of deferred deportation and eligibility for work visas to individuals who meet certain eligibility requirements, including that they entered the United States prior to their sixteenth birthdays and pose no threat to national security or public safety. DACA funds itself through application fees, and a 2016 study found that it has had a positive employment impact for the eligible population. Nevertheless, the President is reported to be living up to his campaign promise to end DACA in six months. We discuss this decision, particularly given the impact it will have on people already suffering from Hurricane Harvey.  North Korea tested a powerful hydrogen bomb on Sunday--its eighteenth missile test since President Trump took office. Through Secretary Mattis and Ambassador Haley, the administration is talking tough. The President himself tweeted a seemingly empty threat about ending trade with all countries doing business with North Korea.  To compliment the other side, Sarah compliments Senator Ted Cruz and Vice President Pence for their efforts in Texas in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. Beth compliments the Democratic governor of Louisiana, John Bel Edwards. The Suit Kentucky is suffering from a crisis around its public pensions, and our Governor, Matt Bevin, has indicated that he's determined to solve this problem. We talk about the crisis in Kentucky and similar situations across the country. We also briefly discuss the history of public pensions in the United States and the questions raised about the nature of work, retirement, partisanship, and problem-solving. Legislatures quietly borrowing from pensions over time, the 2008 financial crisis, and the failure to adequately contribute annually to pensions have all contributed to massive unfunded liabilities. Solving this problem in Kentucky and elsewhere will require multiple constituencies coming to the table, painful cuts, and new revenue.  The Heels  Sarah is heading to Washington D.C. with the Paducah City Commissioners. Beth is making some life changes.       

In today's episode of the Briefcase, we talk about the devastating impacts of Hurricane Harvey, the humans lessons we can take from this moment in time, and how and when to discuss the political impact of natural disasters. We also discuss the new documentary, Accidental Courtesy, about a black man who befriends members of the Ku Klux Klan.  Pantsuit Politics wants to put our thoughts into action. Please consider donating to the American Red Cross or another organization. Send us a confirmation of your donation, and we will match donations from the Pantsuit Politics community up to $1000.  Thanks so much to our sponsors for this episode:  ModCloth is your go-to spot for fashion as unique as you. Whip up your wardrobe with quirky prints and classic silhouettes. Make every day extraordinary by going to modcloth.com and entering the code PANTSUIT to receive $30 off your purchase of $100 or more.  Virtue Labs is a new haircare brand with a vision to give everyone the best hair scientifically possible. Six years ago, a group of bio scientists working in restorative medicine discovered an incredible new protein called Alpha Keratin 60ku, which has the power to completely transform your hair. That means more bounce, more shine, more strength, and more life for your hair. Visit Virtue Labs and use the code PANTSUIT for 10% off and free shipping. Before discussing Hurricane Harvey, we wanted to acknowledge the flooding in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal that has killed more than 1,000 people. We send our thoughts to this part of the world.  As we come to understand the causes and infrastructure issues surrounding Hurricane Harvey, we are most struck by the images of kindness and compassion for others coming out of the area. We discuss our desire to harness Americans' propensity for love and generosity in the wake of tragedy to help heal some of our political division.  We also discuss the reactions to Hurricane Harvey--including social media discussion surrounding the First Lady, Joel Osteen, and the President.  Finally, we discuss the new documentary Accidental Courtesy which details Darryl Davis's mission to befriend members of the Ku Klux Klan as he pursues answers to the question, "how can you hate me when you don't know me?" Davis's confrontation with Black Lives Matter activists in Baltimore captures our attention and causes us to think more about the types of conversations that move race relations forward. 

Pardoning Joe Arpaio, North Korea, Hurricane Harvey, and Sex Addiction

This week, we heard from the President about his strategy in Afghanistan, and we watched him give a 77-minute speech during a campaign rally in Phoenix. We reflect on our reactions to these two speeches.  Our patrons-only bonus episode for August is available for $15+ monthly subscribers. Head over to Patreon to support the show and access the secret garden of content.  Thanks to our sponsors for this episode:  ModCloth is your go-to spot for fashion as unique as you. Whip up your wardrobe with quirky prints and classic silhouettes. Make every day extraordinary by going to modcloth.com and entering the code PANTSUIT to receive $30 off your purchase of $100 or more.  Third Love. Stop tugging at your bra straps and second-guessing your size.  Go to thirdlove.com/pantsuit now to get your perfect ThirdLove bra… and try it for 30 days!

Are you feeling like everyone is angry and crazy? We talk about productive ways to discuss Confederate monuments and Donald Trump.  Our patrons-only bonus episode for August is available for $15+ monthly subscribers. Head over to Patreon to support the show and access the secret garden of content.  Thanks to our sponsors for this episode:  ModCloth is your go-to spot for fashion as unique as you. Whip up your wardrobe with quirky prints and classic silhouettes. Make every day extraordinary by going to modcloth.com and entering the code PANTSUIT to receive $30 off your purchase of $100 or more.  Casper Mattress Casper’s award-winning sleep surface combines supportive memory foams and a springy comfort layer for just the right levels of sink and bounce. Not to mention, its breathable design keeps you cool all night. Buying the Casper is easy. Just order online and it’s delivered to your door in a compact, “how did they do that” sized box. Considering we spend one third of our lives on our mattress, it’s so important to truly sleep on a mattress before committing. That’s why Casper gives you 100 nights to try it out, risk-free. If you don’t love it, they’ll pick it up and refund you everything. Get $50 toward any mattress purchase by visiting www.casper.com/PANTSUIT and using the code PANTSUIT. Terms and Conditions Apply. Hello Fresh is on a mission to save home cooking! Their recipes make you feel unstoppable, and your taste buds will thank you! Go to hellofresh.com and enter PANTSUIT30 for $30 off your first week of Hello Fresh!  The Pearls  Steve Bannon is out of the White House, and it took him ten hot seconds to be back in command at Brietbart. The President has named Hope Hicks as his new communications director.  For our compliments to the other side, Beth appreciates Laura Smith for her compelling, chilling look at the role white women play in white supremacy. Sarah compliments Kentucky state senator, Wil Schroder, and others around the country who are calling for the removal of Confederate monuments from state buildings.  The Suit  Listener Kerry wrote to us about the strange world created by social media. How do we interact with loved ones with whom we have primarily digital relationships around controversial topics? We talk about speech, Confederate monuments, and our social media practices.  The Heels  Sarah is traumatized by Game of Thrones. Beth was asked a really thoughtful question. 

From redpepper in Nashville, TN, we hang out with a roomful of awesome people to discuss the President's remarks on Charlottesville (that he made while we were conducting a workshop on getting involved!) and the importance of women in politics.  If you want to hear the Q&A portion of our live podcast, head over to Patreon to become a supporter of the show!  Thank you so much to redpepper, and 12th table, Jackalope Brewery, and Bravazzi.   And thanks to our sponsor, Modcloth:  ModCloth is your go-to spot for fashion as unique as you. Whip up your wardrobe with quirky prints and classic silhouettes. Make every day extraordinary by going to modcloth.com and entering the code PANTSUIT to receive $30 off your purchase of $100 or more. 

Painfully, we are discussing Nazis, white supremacists, and the KKK. We consider the violence hate wrought upon Charlottesville, the President’s response, and our moral responsibilities at this moment in history. Thanks to our sponsors for this episode: Third Love. Stop tugging at your bra straps and second-guessing your size. It’s time to put fit first, with ThirdLove. ThirdLove uses women’s real measurements—and super smoothing memory foam—to create bras that fit better and are more comfortable. They offer sizes from double-A to G, as well as their exclusive halfcup sizes. Just answer a few simple questions online, and ThirdLove will recommend a bra in the right size and style for you. And now ThirdLove is offering you a chance to try one of their perfect 24/7 bras FREE for 30 days! Just pay $2.99 for shipping—and you’re on your way to a perfect fit. You’ll get to really live in this bra. Feel free to wash it. Wear it all day. You might even forget that you’re wearing it. If ThirdLove isn’t your new favorite bra, just return or exchange it, for free. Go to thirdlove.com/pantsuit now to get your perfect ThirdLove bra… and try it for 30 days! ModCloth is your go-to spot for fashion as unique as you. Whip up your wardrobe with quirky prints and classic silhouettes. Make every day extraordinary by going to modcloth.com and entering the code PANTSUIT to receive $30 off your purchase of $100 or more. The Pearls We talk about the President's approach to North Korea, the territory of Guam, and whether there is a viable military or political solution to North Korea's nuclear proliferation. We also briefly discuss whether America has an interest in Venezuela and the President's threat of using military force there. Sarah compliments the President for declaring the opioid epidemic a national emergency. Beth sends good thoughts to Michael Signer, Charlottesville's mayor. The Suit The horrific events in Charlottesville have us thinking about racism, individual responsibility, violence, and moral culpability. We also discuss President Trump's response to these events. The Heels We discuss The Daily's reporting on Weight Watchers.

The Briefcase: What's local office really like with Paducah Mayor Brandi Harless

Affirmative Action, August recess, and is motherhood a sacrifice or a privilege?

During John Kelly's first week as Chief of Staff, the President rolled out a plan to curb legal immigration. Beth discusses this plan and the future of healthcare and tax reform legislation with Perry Bacon of FiveThirtyEight. Thank you to Mary for sharing the Optimist's Creed. Join us in Nashville on August 15 for our very first live podcast at redpepper. Get your tickets today!

While Sarah enjoys time away with family, former Congressional staffer and writer Emily Ellsworth joins Beth to discuss the news of the week and effectively contacting your representatives. Come see us in Nashville for our first ever live podcast as part of redpepper's Hustle and Grow series. Tickets are on sale now! Thanks so much to our sponsor for this episode: Virtue Labs is a new haircare brand with a vision to give everyone the best hair scientifically possible. Six years ago, a group of bio scientists working in restorative medicine discovered an incredible new protein called Alpha Keratin 60ku, which has the power to completely transform your hair. Alpha Keratin 60ku is a whole, human protein that’s identical to the Keratin in your own hair, so it can resurface and fill in cracks from damage to change your hair’s quality and appearance forever. And, right now, you can only find it in Virtue Labs’s line of shampoos, conditioners, and styling products. Not to mention, each formula was created to address specific issues like heat damage, frizz, or thinning hair. That means more bounce, more shine, more strength, and more life for your hair. Visit Virtue Labs and use the code PANTSUIT for 10% off and free shipping. The Pearls We discuss the Senate's failure to pass a repeal or replacement of the Affordable Care Act, including the valiant efforts of Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski. We also talk about Reince Preibus's departure from the White House and the President's appointment of John Kelly as the new Chief of Staff. To compliment the other side, Beth highlights the work of Take Back Our Republic, and Emily compliments Chuck Schumer. The Suit We discuss Emily's viral tweetstorm and Call the Halls: Contacting Your Representatives the Smart Way. The Heel Since we're both introverts, we discuss the introversion, the internet, public service, and the importance of our extroverted friends. Thank you to Nicholas, Tracey, Leslie, and Sabrina. Please visit Patreon to support Pantsuit Politics and to receive all kinds of bonus content.

Pantsuit Politics Book Club: The Righteous Mind