This week we bring you a special episode from Aleena Khan, one of our 2025 Podcast Fellows.

In this special episode from the Democracy Group Network, Aleena introduces her podcast 'Into the Woodland,' where she discusses the local government and events in The Woodlands, Texas. She explores the unique Woodlands Township government system, established in 2010, and details the roles of its Board of Directors and various advisory committees. Aleena also sheds light on the nine distinct villages within the Woodlands, each with their own village associations that host events and advocate for community change. Listeners are encouraged to participate in township meetings and access resources available on the township's website.

• 00:00 Introduction to the Democracy Group Network
• 00:23 Welcome to Into the Woodland
• 00:37 Understanding the Woodlands Township Government
• 01:06 The Role of Committees and Villages
• 01:47 Conclusion and Farewell

Know a student interested in democracy and podcasts? Send them over to our fellowship to apply: https://www.democracygroup.org/fellowship

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This week we bring you a special episode from Shae Himmelberger & Joseph Strassman, one of our 2025 Podcast Fellows teams.

In this special episode, we dive into a candid conversation with Dr. Chris Beam, a research professor at Penn State focusing on political theory and social ethics. The episode covers Dr. Beam's academic background, his thoughts on the evolving relationship between Christian theology and democracy, and the rise of Christian nationalism in America. The discussion also delves into political dynamics, the economic focus of progressive politics, and the challenges faced by both the Democratic and Republican parties. Dr. Beam provides insights on how the U.S. political and cultural landscape has shifted over the years, the role of religion in shaping political ideologies, and the potential for progressive movements to regain their footing amidst current challenges.

• 00:00 Introduction to the Democracy Group Network
• 00:23 Guest Introduction and Background
• 02:20 Christian Theology and Democracy
• 05:02 Christian Nationalism and Its Implications
• 07:36 The Role of Religion in American Politics
• 23:04 Progressive Politics and Economic Issues
• 31:44 Future of Progressive Politics
• 41:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Know a student interested in democracy and podcasts? Send them over to our fellowship to apply: https://www.democracygroup.org/fellowship

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This week we bring you a special episode from Tenzin Jamyang, one of our 2025 Podcast Fellows.

In this special episode of 'Democracy Reflected,' we sit down with Eric Pereira, Community Affairs Fellow at the Office of Council Member Shekar Krishnan, representing New York City's 25th City Council District. Eric discusses his role in connecting with constituents, addressing local issues, and the importance of representation in diverse neighborhoods like Jackson Heights and Elmhurst. He sheds light on the daily challenges and successes of ensuring that the voices of underrepresented communities are heard and their needs met. Eric shares how his team's linguistic diversity aids in building trust, the impact of legislative efforts on community advocacy, and his journey into public service inspired by his background. This episode highlights the real-world effects of effective local governance and offers insights into how young people can get involved in public service.

• 00:00 Introduction to the Democracy Group Network
• 00:23 Meet Eric Pereira: Community Affairs Fellow
• 01:42 The Importance of Representation in Local Government
• 04:40 Challenges and Barriers in Political Spaces
• 07:48 Building Trust and Effective Communication
• 09:31 Future of Representation and Civic Engagement
• 23:06 Personal Journey and Inspiration for Public Service
• 24:36 Encouraging Youth Participation in Public Service
• 27:49 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Know a student interested in democracy and podcasts? Send them over to our fellowship to apply: https://www.democracygroup.org/fellowship

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This week we bring you a special episode from Annalise Huang, one of our 2025 Podcast Fellows.

The episode features an in-depth conversation with Kayla Pilgrim, a 19-year-old founder of Civic Success, about her journey in civic engagement, the motivations behind her work, and the innovative ways her organization is inspiring young people to participate in civic life. Kayla discusses the challenges and opportunities of modernizing civic engagement, the impact of social media, the barriers young people face, and the importance of sustained, meaningful involvement. The episode concludes with practical advice for young listeners looking to get involved in their communities.

• 00:00 Introduction to the Democracy Group Network
• 00:23 Welcome to Civically Thinking
• 01:19 Meet Kayla Pilgrim: A Young Civic Leader
• 02:40 Kayla's Journey into Civic Engagement
• 05:20 The Civic Success Project
• 10:01 Challenges and Innovations in Civic Engagement
• 14:44 The Role of Social Media in Civic Engagement
• 17:58 Personal Challenges and Staying Engaged
• 23:36 Advice for Young People on Getting Involved 26:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Know a student interested in democracy and podcasts? Send them over to our fellowship to apply: https://www.democracygroup.org/fellowship

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We continue our Best of 2025 episodes with an episode from The Context podcast.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe to hear the rest of The Context's episodes!

👉 Subscribe here: https://pod.link/1726934311

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We continue our Best of 2025 episodes with an episode from the Village SquareCast podcast.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe to hear the rest of Village SquareCast episodes!

👉 Subscribe here: https://pod.link/1520059234

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We continue our Best of 2025 episodes with an episode from the Future Hindsight podcast, hosted by Mila Atmos.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe to hear the rest of Future Hindsight's episodes!

👉 Subscribe here: https://pod.link/futurehindsight

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We continue our Best of 2025 episodes with an episode from the New Faces of Democracy podcast, hosted by Nancy Bynum.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe to hear the rest of New Faces of Democracy episodes!

👉 Subscribe here: https://pod.link/1512070381

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