Avsnitt
-
In this episode of Crayon Box Weekly: Interview Edition, we sit down with Andrea LeDew, author of Polemics: Political Poems and Prose, to confront a deeper question behind today’s political chaos:
Are we seeing reality… or the story we’ve been conditioned to believe?
Through poetry, storytelling, and lived experience, this conversation explores how narratives shape political perception, where emotion collides with fact, and how messaging can both clarify and distort the truth.
We break down:
• How storytelling influences what people believe about politics
• Where narrative crosses the line into manipulation
• Why emotion often overrides facts in public discourse
• How distilling complex issues can sharpen understanding—or mislead entirelyThis isn’t about left vs right. It’s about how we interpret what we’re told—and whether we’re thinking critically about it.
No talking points. No partisan spin. Just a real conversation about truth, perception, and power.
-
In this episode of Crayon Box Weekly: Interview Edition, Carl Able sits down with a former Trump-affiliated attorney and current CEO of the American Rights Alliance to examine one of the most controversial questions in American politics today:
Is the justice system being weaponized?
This conversation explores the intersection of law, power, and political influence, including:
Claims of “lawfare” and selective prosecution
The role of the Department of Justice and state attorneys general
The legal and ethical boundaries of advocacy in politically charged cases
Election integrity, fraud allegations, and the limits of the courts
The case of Tina Peters and broader concerns about due process
Whether the American justice system is applied equally across political lines
Rather than focusing on partisan talking points, this discussion challenges assumptions from both sides and digs into how the system actually functions — and where it may be breaking down.
No spin. No easy answers. Just a real conversation.
-
Saknas det avsnitt?
-
Has the presidency become too powerful?
In this episode of Crayon Box Weekly: Interview Edition, Carl Able sits down with retired Marine Nicholas Hensley to examine the steady expansion of executive authority in the United States government.
The U.S. Constitution established a system of checks and balances intended to prevent any one branch from dominating the others. Congress was granted the largest number of enumerated powers, while the president was designed to execute the laws, not dominate the political system. Yet over the course of American history, wars, national emergencies, economic crises, and political gridlock have gradually shifted more power toward the executive branch.
Carl and Nicholas explore how this shift occurred, from Franklin D. Roosevelt’s wartime expansion of presidential authority, to the War Powers era during Vietnam, to the post-9/11 Authorizations for Use of Military Force, and the modern use of executive orders, national emergency declarations, and delegated trade authority.
The conversation also examines the role of Congress in enabling this growth and asks a fundamental question: has a stronger presidency made the United States more effective at governing, or has it weakened the constitutional balance the founders intended?
This episode explores the history, constitutional foundations, and modern implications of the expanding presidency.
Stay informed. Stay engaged. And always color outside the lines.
-
What happens when veterans stop being political props and start organizing as a civic force?
In this episode of Crayon Box Weekly, Carl sits down with Army veteran and 50501 Veterans leader Katie Chorbak to examine the real state of veteran advocacy in America. This conversation tackles veteran homelessness, nonprofit funding incentives, VA healthcare and community care, Military Sexual Trauma (MST), National Guard deployments, and the broader role veterans play in civic leadership.
They break down how VA funding works, why community care remains controversial, how Military Sexual Trauma reform has evolved, and what accountability should look like inside military and veteran systems. They also discuss the political narrative surrounding veterans and why veteran voices matter in conversations about democracy, public policy, and institutional reform.
Veterans represent just over 6% of the U.S. population. When they organize, advocate, and hold leadership accountable, they become a powerful civic force — not just for themselves, but for the country they served.
If you care about veteran policy, VA reform, military accountability, or the future of civic leadership in America, this conversation is for you.
Stay informed. Stay engaged. And always color outside the lines.
-
Sometimes you have to laugh just to stay sane.
In this episode of Crayon Box Politics, Carl sits down with journalist and podcaster Bob Gatty, host of Lean to the Left, for a wide-ranging, unfiltered conversation about the political moment we’re living through and why so many Americans feel like they’re watching reality bend in real time.
From media narratives and political tribalism to executive power, polling trends, and the strange new normal of American politics, this episode balances serious insight with the kind of “you seeing this too?” energy that makes tough conversations bearable.
It’s not a debate.
It’s not a meltdown.
It’s two people paying attention and trying to make sense of the absurd.
-
In this conversation, Zolal Habibi, an Iranian human rights activist, shares her personal journey and the motivations behind her activism for democracy and women's rights in Iran. She discusses the historical context of Iran's political landscape, including the 1979 revolution and the subsequent rise of the current regime. Zolal highlights the role of the Iranian resistance and the recent uprisings, emphasizing the resilience of the Iranian people in their fight for freedom. The conversation also touches on the international community's response to the situation in Iran and the potential future of a democratic Iran as a stabilizing force in the region.
-
In this episode of Crayon Box Weekly, hosts Carl Able and Vanessa LaPalm discuss the recent political tensions involving the United States and Venezuela, focusing on President Trump's actions and their implications. They explore the historical context of executive actions without congressional approval, comparing them to past administrations. The conversation also touches on the broader geopolitical landscape, including the role of oil and international relations. Additionally, they address the recent incident involving ICE and its impact on public perception and policy. The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding both sides of complex issues and encourage listeners to engage in thoughtful dialogue.
-
In our first interview of 2026, Dr. Doug Cardell discusses the complexities of economics, particularly the challenges of economic forecasting and the implications for central planning in socialist systems. He emphasizes the chaotic nature of economies, the importance of value creation, and the role of government in regulating markets. The discussion also touches on the transition of industries, the necessity of self-improvement, and the impact of entrepreneurs on society. Dr. Cardell argues against socialism, highlighting its inefficiencies and the importance of capitalism as a system that fosters hope and progress. He concludes by promoting his book, which explores the economic errors that undermine utopian ideals.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Doug Cardell
03:12 The Challenges of Economic Forecasting
12:52 The Role of Government in the Economy
18:24 Government Intervention and Economic Morality
25:37 Creating Value in a Changing Job Market
34:30 Transitioning Workers in a Shifting Economy
39:06 The Importance of Hope and Capitalism
43:40 The Misconceptions of Wealth and Capitalism
46:07 The Evolution of Capitalism and Economic Growth
51:30 The Role of Entrepreneurs in Wealth Creation
56:12 The Flaws of Socialism and Historical Context
01:00:53 Spontaneous Order and Self-Interest in Economics
01:09:01 The Dangers of a Socialist Economy
01:16:49 The Purpose of the Book and Final Thoughts
-
In this final episode of the year, hosts Carl and Vanessa reflect on the significant events of 2025, discussing personal anecdotes, political developments, and the impact of immigration policies. They explore the rise of anti-Muslim rhetoric, the challenges of housing and rent, and the state of Congress. Looking ahead, they share their plans for the next year, emphasizing the importance of political representation and engagement.
-
In this episode of Crayon Box Weekly, hosts Carl and Vanessa discuss various news stories, focusing on Texas SB 8, the Women's Privacy Act, and its implications for transgender rights. They also delve into the recent designation of fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction, exploring the drug epidemic in America and the political motivations behind these legislative actions. The conversation highlights personal anecdotes, societal issues, and the importance of understanding different perspectives in political discourse.
-
In this episode of Crayon Box Weekly, Carl and Vanessa discuss various topics ranging from holiday shopping experiences to political identity and party switching. Carl shares his journey of switching from the Republican to the Democratic Party, reflecting on his core values and how they align with the Democratic platform. The conversation shifts to current events, including political commentary on the state of the nation, racial profiling, and the implications of recent Supreme Court decisions.
Take the What do You Stand For Survey by clicking on the link below!
https://www.crayonboxpolitics.com/survey/start/7a170ad2-71c0-4ed3-8d7b-5d3ef0443d45
-
In this episode of Crayon Box Weekly, hosts Carl and Vanessa discuss their recent personal experiences, including accidents and political engagement. They delve into the dynamics of political groups on social media, highlighting the stark differences in reception between conservative and progressive communities. The conversation shifts to the impact of hate speech and division in politics, the spread of misinformation, and current geopolitical tensions, particularly between China and Taiwan. They also touch on military actions and the implications of international relations, concluding with plans for future episodes and community engagement.
-
Release Date: Monday, November 10, 2025Hosts: Carl Able & VanessaSeries: Crayon Box Weekly – News Review Edition⸻Episode SummaryThis week’s news roundup swings from science that makes you laugh (and then think) to politics that makes you question reality. Carl and Vanessa kick things off with a look at Japan’s latest clinical breakthrough — intestinal oxygen absorption, better known as “butt breathing.” What starts as comic disbelief turns into a serious conversation about medical innovation and emergency care.Then the focus shifts stateside, where Election Day confusion hit new levels. Some voters in Kentucky tried to cast ballots in an election that didn’t exist, while political tensions flared nationwide over mail-in voting, state aid, and Trump’s increasingly erratic influence on upcoming races. From coin shortages to the end of the penny, the hosts close with a grounded (and surprisingly costly) look at the tiny details shaping our economy.⸻In This Episode • 0:08 – Welcome to the new two-part format: News Review & In-Depth • 1:00 – Japan’s “butt breathing” research enters human trials • 5:45 – COVID’s legacy and the search for alternative oxygen methods • 10:30 – Election Day confusion: Kentucky voters show up for the wrong race • 13:00 – Trump’s threats, state aid politics, and the Mamdani election • 18:00 – The Department of War? Trump’s “fit or fired” military directive • 25:00 – The penny’s demise and why rounding up could cost you • 30:40 – What losing Lincoln means and how small change adds up⸻Key Takeaways • Science meets absurdity: “Butt breathing” could save lives — and egos. • Politics remains performance art: Even off-cycle elections can reveal major 2026 energy. • Every cent counts: The penny’s removal could quietly raise costs for cash users.⸻Listen & Engage📩 Submit your news stories: [email protected]🎧 Listen to past episodes: www.crayonboxpolitics.com/podcast💬 Join the discussion: “64” Community on Facebook
-
This episode kicks off the “States’ Rights” arc of the Chaos or Unity series — exploring how American governance walks the line between independence and interdependence.
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Carl and Vanessa peel back the layers of what it actually means to be a “state” in the United States. From the Articles of Confederation to the 10th Amendment, they trace how state sovereignty evolved — and how that independence continues to collide with federal power today. Through humor, history, and a few well-timed tangents (including undercooked military meals and Trump’s platform shoes), they make sense of one of America’s most misunderstood foundations: the balance between chaos and unity.
Key Topics:
The origins of the states and the Articles of Confederation
How the Constitution redefined the balance between state and federal power
The 10th Amendment and the Supremacy Clause explained (without the legal jargon)
Texas v. White (1869) and why states can’t legally secede
Federal vs. state authority — from SNAP benefits to National Guard deployment
Everyday examples: marijuana laws, taxes, and the gray area between local and federal control
Why the U.S. system confuses the world — and sometimes, us too
Takeaways:
A “state” is both sovereign and bound — independent within, united without.
The Constitution intentionally left room for friction; it’s what keeps democracy alive.
Federal authority may trump state law, but local governance remains the engine of everyday life.
Understanding these dynamics is key to understanding how—and why—America governs itself the way it does.
🎥 Watch on YouTube: youtube.com/@crayonboxpolitics
🎧 Listen on Crayon Box Politics: crayonboxpolitics.com/podcast
💬 Join the Conversation: Facebook group 64 or Discord Crayon Box HQ
-
Carl and Vanessa close out the Vote or Be Ruled series with a grounded discussion on why voting still matters—even when it feels futile. They explore voter apathy, political longevity, age in leadership, and how personal participation keeps democracy from decaying into complacency.
⸻
Key Topics & Corrections
Voting Frequency and Civic Power
• There’s always an election happening somewhere in the U.S.—federal, state, or local.
• Correction: “California Proposition 50” is a fictional placeholder in the conversation; no such 2025 measure exists. However, the point stands: local and state propositions often decide key policy shifts.
• Voting is the direct mechanism for accountability. Calls for “term limits” often ignore that voters already have that power—they just don’t use it.
⸻
Career Politicians and the Age Debate
• Carl and Vanessa discuss longevity in office, using examples like Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and President Biden.
• Correction: Pelosi is a representative, not a senator. She has served in the House since 1987.
• The conversation expands to the cognitive and generational gap in leadership—how older politicians may struggle to represent younger constituencies.
• Correction: No sitting U.S. president has died of old age in office; several have died from illness or assassination, but none solely from advanced age.
⸻
Informed Voting and Breaking Tribalism
• Blind party loyalty keeps entrenched incumbents in power.
• Educated voting—based on candidate background, policy record, and lived impact—creates real change.
• Correction: Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA) did not die in office; he is still serving as of 2025. (Carl was referring to another member of Congress who passed earlier that year.)
• Abstaining from uninformed voting can be better than supporting a candidate whose platform contradicts your values—but it’s not a substitute for civic engagement.
⸻
Local Elections: The Real Power Base
• Local offices—mayors, school boards, city councils—affect zoning, policing, education, and representation far more immediately than the presidency.
• Correction: In North Carolina and many other states, local election schedules can shift when municipalities vote to align with federal cycles, often to improve turnout or reduce costs.
⸻
2024 Election Breakdown (Corrected Data)
• U.S. population: ~336 million
• Registered voters: ~174 million
• Ballots cast: ~154 million
• Donald Trump: ~77.3 million votes (49.8%)
• Kamala Harris: ~75.0 million votes (48.3%)
• Margin: ≈2.3 million votes
• Trump won via Electoral College, not popular mandate—his total represents roughly 23% of the total U.S. population, not “half the country.”
⸻
Takeaway: The “Why” of Voting
Voting isn’t about believing your single ballot will swing a presidency—it’s about building the conditions that make accountability possible.
Democracy isn’t self-cleaning; if voters don’t show up, the system calcifies under those who do.
⸻
Crayon Box Politics Update: Politician Baseball Cards
Carl announces the upcoming Politician Baseball Cards project—a quick-reference tool for voters to see who represents them, what they’ve done, and how they’ve voted.
A pilot release is planned for summer 2026, with public feedback rounds in early 2026.
⸻
Next Episode Preview
November kicks off the State’s Rights series—exploring how state power, federal limits, and historical battles still define American freedom today.
-
Carl and Vanessa dissect America’s democratic mythos—how the Electoral College, primary system, and party elites shape outcomes long before voters step into a booth. The discussion threads from the Founders’ elitism to the 2024 Democratic transition, revealing how much “representation” is managed behind the curtain.
Correction: The Electoral College originated in 1787—not to deny democracy, but to reconcile state power under the Constitution.
Each state’s electors = total number of senators + representatives.
“Faithless electors” can occur, but most states now legally bind electors to the state’s popular vote.
Correction: Five presidents (not two) have won the Electoral College while losing the popular vote—most recently Trump in 2016.
The system gives smaller states disproportionate weight, meaning a Wyoming vote counts more than a California vote.
Before 1972, party leaders—not voters—chose nominees in conventions.
The 1968 Democratic Convention (Hubert Humphrey’s nomination despite poor primary support) led to reforms giving states more power.
Correction: Kamala Harris did not “appoint herself” or “receive no votes.”
After Biden’s 2024 withdrawal, pledged delegates and superdelegates reallocated under DNC succession rules.
This process was legal and procedural, though it appeared undemocratic to many.
Correction: The four notable 2024 Democratic challengers—Dean Phillips, Marianne Williamson, Jason Palmer, and the “Uncommitted” protest vote—did compete in early primaries before the race collapsed.
Pop culture and wealth distort civic engagement.
Correction: Elon Musk’s “lottery for voters” story is unverified; however, similar celebrity-driven or financially-incentivized turnout efforts have skirted the ethical edge of electioneering.
Concerts, endorsements, and influencer campaigns reflect how political messaging now thrives on entertainment, not policy.
The American system wasn’t rigged by accident—it was built to balance control and chaos. Reforms like primaries and campaign laws tweaked the process, but power remains concentrated among elites, donors, and party insiders. Democracy, in practice, is still a managed performance.
-
In this episode of Crayon Box Weekly, Carl and co-host Vanessa explore the evolution of voting rights in America, discussing key amendments such as the 15th, 19th, 24th, and 26th, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924. They delve into historical contexts and legal frameworks that shaped voting eligibility, including age requirements tied to the Vietnam War draft, women's suffrage, literacy tests, and poll taxes. The discussion also covers the significance of the Voting Rights Act, federal vs. state law dynamics, and the inclusion of multilingual support for voters.
As always, dont forget to like, follow, and share!
-
In this episode of Crayon Box Weekly, host Carl, joined by guest host Vanessa, discuss the progression of voting rights and systems, focusing on the adoption of the Australian voting system in the United States. The conversation covers the historical context of public voting, the impact of the secret ballot on voter confidentiality, and how different states manage election regulations. They also dig into the challenges and implications of voter ID laws, touching on issues of accessibility and discrimination.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode of Crayon Box Weekly, we discuss the historical and contemporary significance of protest in maintaining democratic freedoms. We review key moments in American history, such as the Boston Tea Party and recent movements like BLM, to demonstrate the impact of protest on societal change. As we move forward it is important to emphasize the importance of staying informed, engaged, and proactive in upholding protest rights and democratic principles through legal literacy, civic action, and community involvement.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
-
In this episode of Crayon Box Weekly, We discuss the evolving landscape of civil liberties and government actions impacting the right to protest. We highlight the increase in anti-protest legislation, with 45 states introducing over 350 bills since 2017, the establishment of National Guard units for public order, and heightened surveillance measures such as geofence warrants and facial recognition. We look at potential paths for the future: a descent into tyranny, maintaining the status quo, or a move back to a center of political discourse.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Visa fler
