Judge Toby Hampson, a key player on the North Carolina Court of Appeals, joins the crew of Muck You! to chat about the wild world of judicial elections and why keeping Democratic voices in the courts is crucial. He dives deep into the nitty-gritty of how the court operates and the potential consequences of a complete Republican sweep in the upcoming elections. Hampson shares his journey from a North Carolina public school to the bench, sprinkling in some humor about his past as the “dumb jock” at a math and science school—who knew judges could be so relatable? The gang discusses the importance of upholding the law in a landscape increasingly colored by partisanship, with Hampson stressing the need for balance and the vital role judges play in ensuring justice for all North Carolinians. Buckle up for a lively conversation filled with laughs, insights, and some serious calls to action for folks to support judicial candidates who stand for what’s right!

Diving headfirst into the murky waters of judicial politics, the latest episode of Muck U features Judge Toby Hampson of the North Carolina Court of Appeals. The trio—hosts David Wheeler and Colonel Mo Davis, along with Judge Hampson—explore the intricacies of the state's judicial system while sprinkling in some light-hearted banter. Judge Hampson shares his journey from the public school system to the prestigious School of Science and Math, and eventually to the bench, all while tossing in a few jokes about being the 'dumb jock' in a school full of brainiacs. They dig deep into the implications of upcoming elections, particularly the significance of maintaining Democratic representation in a court currently leaning Republican. The conversation flows from the role of the Court of Appeals to the impact of judicial decisions on everyday North Carolinians, emphasizing the importance of public trust in the judiciary.

As they navigate through complex legal concepts, the hosts keep the tone playful, making sure to reference the sometimes absurd nature of political campaigns. Judge Hampson highlights the importance of having dissenting opinions in the court system, using a recent case as a prime example of how one voice can tip the scales of justice. The hosts chuckle at the quirks of judicial life, comparing it to sports commentary—after all, judges are supposed to call balls and strikes, right? With the judicial landscape in North Carolina shifting, the trio also discusses strategies for engaging voters across the state, ensuring that folks from Asheville to Wilmington have their voices heard come election day.

In a world where political partisanship seems to seep into every nook and cranny of government, Judge Hampson passionately advocates for the integrity of the judiciary. He expresses concern about the growing perception of judges as political entities rather than impartial arbiters of justice. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt call to action, encouraging listeners to support judicial candidates who prioritize fairness and independence. With laughter, insight, and a dash of self-deprecation, this installment of Muck You reminds us that even in the serious world of law, there's always room for a good joke—or a good drink, as they discuss their favorite bourbons and IPAs. It's a blend of legal savvy and camaraderie that leaves you both informed and entertained, proving that justice doesn't have to be a dry affair.

Takeaways:

• Muck You dives deep into the muck of corruption and hypocrisy, revealing truths that others try to hide.
• Judge Toby Hampson brings a wealth of experience from public schools to the NC Court of Appeals, emphasizing education's role in his journey.
• The NC Court of Appeals plays a critical role in reviewing legal decisions, ensuring justice across the state, no matter the case.
• There's a significant push for Democrats to maintain balance in the NC judiciary, especially with critical...

David and Moe are back from their vacays, and they’ve brought a dynamite guest along for the ride: Ed Opperman, an investigative reporter who’s got some serious street cred in the private eye game. They dive deep into the wild world of political scandals, with Ed dropping some juicy insights about how today’s drama seems to bounce off political figures like a rubber ball. Seriously, it's like the more outrageous the scandal, the less it matters—Trump’s escapades are a prime example, as Ed hilariously points out how the public’s become immune to the chaos. The trio chats about everything from Epstein to the slippery slope of modern media control, and Ed’s got some spicy stories to share, including his close encounters with the drama surrounding Stormy Daniels and the intertwined lives of various players in the political sphere. Buckle up, because this episode is packed with laughs, eye-rolls, and a whole lotta “did they just say that?” moments!

Takeaways:

• David and Moe recently returned from their individual vacations, diving straight into a podcast filled with juicy discussions and funny anecdotes.
• The guest, Ed Opperman, a private investigator and podcast host, shared some wild stories about scandals involving high-profile figures, including Trump and Epstein.
• Ed highlighted how political scandals seem to have lost their shock value in today's media landscape, as audiences have become desensitized to the outrageous.
• The conversation revealed how the media, especially under certain influences, can control narratives and obscure details surrounding political scandals.
• They discussed the evolution of scandal culture from the past to modern times, showing how today's audiences may shrug off serious allegations against public figures.
• Opperman pointed out that despite numerous felonies being charged, some scandals seem to have little to no impact on public perception or political careers.

Links referenced in this episode:

• oppermanreport
• spreaker.com
• patreon.com/oppermanreport

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Opperman Report
• AMI
• Gawker
• New York Post

Get ready to dive deep into the wild world of local politics and community resilience! This episode of the Muckyou podcast features a star-studded lineup of mayors from western North Carolina, including the soon-to-be congressman Colonel Mo Davis and his fellow mayors discussing the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. They kick things off by highlighting the grit and determination of their towns as they face challenges like natural disasters and economic shifts, proving that even when the going gets tough, these leaders are all about lifting each other up and finding solutions. With stories of recovery, community spirit, and a sprinkle of good ol' Southern charm, they explore how each town is navigating the muck of politics while striving for a brighter future. So, grab your favorite drink, settle in, and get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe even shed a tear as these local heroes share their journeys through adversity and hope!

Takeaways:

• The Muckyou podcast serves up raw, unfiltered discussions on local politics and community resilience, showcasing how mayors navigate disaster recovery with grit and grace.
• Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc across western North Carolina, prompting local leaders to step up and demonstrate the strength of their communities amidst chaos.
• The episode highlights the importance of interconnectivity between towns, as mayors share resources and support each other during recovery efforts from severe weather events.
• Each mayor reflects on their personal motivations for public service, emphasizing the deep-rooted connection to their communities and a desire to create positive change.
• The conversations reveal a shared optimism among the mayors for the future, despite facing challenges like economic downturns and climate change impacts on their towns.
• Listeners are reminded that even in the face of adversity, communities can thrive through collaboration, leadership, and a commitment to supporting one another.
• Riverside Rhapsody

Links referenced in this episode:

• americanmuckrakers.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Bear Waters Brewing
• Diamond Brand
• Baker Engineering
• Duke Endowment
• American Muckrakers
• Riverside Rhapsody

Adam Frisch rolled into the Muck You podcast to spill the tea on his wild ride in politics, particularly his fierce showdown with Lauren Boebert in the closest elections in 2022. He’s back in the game for 2026, and let’s just say, he’s got some spicy insights on why Boebert bounced to greener pastures, and how he's aiming for a comeback with the Welcome Party. The convo gets real as they dive deep into the political landscape, pointing out how the Dems gotta step it up and reconnect with everyday folks in small towns who’ve kinda ghosted them. Frisch emphasizes that it ain’t just about party lines; it’s about getting back to what really matters for the community. Colonel Moe Davis and David B. Wheeler are all ears, ready to soak up Frisch’s wisdom that blends humor with hard truths about today’s political circus.

Takeaways:

• Adam Frisch's 2022 campaign against Lauren Boebert was a nail-biter, losing by just 546 votes, making it the closest race in the nation.
• The Welcome Party, which Adam is now involved with, aims to support centrist Democrats in Trump-dominated districts, focusing on local issues and community needs.
• Frisch emphasizes the importance of connecting with moderate voters who feel neglected by both major political parties, advocating for a more inclusive approach.
• The podcast discusses the need for Democrats to re-establish trust and relevance in rural areas where they have lost ground over the past few elections.
• Adam believes that while Democrats need to focus on economic opportunities, they also must reconnect emotionally with voters beyond just facts and figures.
• The co-hosts and Adam agree that the Democratic Party's branding issues have led to a disconnect with many voters who appreciate the party's policies but not its image.

Links referenced in this episode:

• thewelcomeparty.org
• americanmuckrakers.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Welcome Party
• Adam Gray
• Marie Guzen Compress
• Jared Golden
• Becca Cook

Wiley Nickel is back on the pod, and he’s got some spicy tea to spill about his Senate run against Thom Tillis in North Carolina! He’s all about shaking things up and pointing out that Tillis is just a puppet for the rich and famous, like Trump and Musk, while leaving regular folks in the dust. Wiley’s got some serious beef with Tillis, especially over cuts to Medicaid and Medicare that could leave thousands of North Carolinians hanging. He’s fired up and ready to bring the heat, claiming that the current bill is a sneaky scam that’s gonna cost the middle class big time while lining the pockets of billionaires. So, if you wanna hear some straight talk about what’s really going down in the political arena, grab your snacks and tune in for a wild ride!

Takeaways:

• Wiley Nickel isn't holding back on Thom Tillis, calling him out for being a total sellout to big money.
• The podcast dives into how the proposed bill is set to screw over middle-class voters in North Carolina while lining the pockets of billionaires.
• Tillis' flip-flopping on key issues has left many folks in North Carolina feeling betrayed and frustrated.
• The discussion highlights the importance of a senator who actually stands up for the people, not just the elite.
• Wiley emphasizes that healthcare cuts are a major concern, potentially affecting over 500,000 people in the state.
• The conversation wraps up with a call to action for voters to get involved in the upcoming election, stressing that every vote truly matters.

Links referenced in this episode:

• wileynickel.com
• thehill.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Wiley Nickel
• Thom Tillis
• Donald Trump
• Elon Musk
• Chuck Edwards
• Pete Hegseth

David Jolly is back in the game, folks, and he's not just here to chat; he’s running for Ghovernor of Florida! That's right, he's now a Democrat, and he's got some serious thoughts about how the party can shake things up and tackle the affordability crisis plaguing the Sunshine State. He and co-hosts Colonel Moe Davis and David B. Wheeler dive deep into what it takes to win over voters in Florida, stressing the importance of focusing on real issues like property taxes and education instead of getting tangled in the Trump drama. And if you thought that was a wild ride, just wait until Anthony Scaramucci swings by to add his flair to the convo! Buckle up, because this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and more than a sprinkle of political sass!

Takeaways:

• David Jolly emphasizes that Democrats can actually win in Florida by focusing on key issues that resonate with voters, like affordability and education.
• Colonel Moe Davis and David B. Wheeler encourage listeners to believe in the possibility of change in Florida's political landscape, especially with Jolly's candidacy.
• Anthony Scaramucci reflects on his transformation from a Republican to someone critical of Trump's influence, highlighting the need for integrity in politics.
• Jolly stresses the importance of coalition-building among voters who seek change, indicating that current Republican politics are not reflective of the majority's desires.
• Scaramucci and Jolly discuss the current political climate, noting that many Republicans are experiencing buyer's remorse over their previous support for Trump.
• The podcast highlights the necessity of Democrats engaging with voters in communities they have neglected, emphasizing the need to amplify core Democratic values.

Links referenced in this episode:

• davidjolly.com
• scaramucci.net
• americanmuckrakers.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Muck You!
• SkyBridge Capital
• Goldman Sachs
• American Muckrakers

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