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In this episode, Joe sits down with Cesar Toledo, Executive Director of the Wanda Alston Foundation, to talk about what it really looks like to make local impact. Cesar shares his journey from national politics — including the Harris-Walz campaign and the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund — to leading a small but mighty DC nonprofit serving homeless LGBTQ+ youth, where nearly 40% of DC's homeless youth identify as queer. He and Joe dig into how Cesar is scaling impact with limited staff, why campaign skills translate directly to nonprofit leadership, and how he refuses to let the opposition steal his joy.
Guest Info:
Cesar Toledo, Executive Director, Wanda Alston Foundation
Connect with Cesar on Instagram (@chico_ces)
Resources:
The Wanda Alston Foundation's housing programs Cesar's 2025 Out100 feature Cesar's Metro Weekly cover story LGBTQ+ Victory Institute candidate and campaign trainingsCheck out Cesar's recommendations:
TV: Invincible (Amazon Prime)
Movies: George A. Romero's Dawn of the Dead and the Resident Evil film franchise.
Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn. Sign up for our newsletter here.
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What does it actually mean for a bank to be "socially responsible," and why should every nonprofit, campaign, and advocacy organization care? In this episode, Martín sits down with Maura Keaney, Vice President and Director of Client Engagement at Amalgamated Bank, to unpack what ethical banking looks like in practice. Maura shares how a bank can be a real partner in the progressive movement. She also gets into the practical stuff: ACH payments, fraud prevention, payment strategy, and the questions every executive director or CFO should be asking their banking partner.
Guest Info:
Maura Keaney, Vice President and Director of Client Engagement at Amalgamated Bank, America's socially responsible bank.
Connect with Maura on LinkedIn.
Check out Maura's recommendations:
Books: Tana French and Emily St. John Mandel both have new books hitting the shelves!
TV: Slow Horses and Ted Lasso (both on Apple TV+)
Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn. Sign up for our newsletter here.
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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In this special 7 Questions episode, Joe sits down with Kristen Grimm, Founder and Strategist at Spitfire Strategies, for a candid conversation about what it takes to win a campaign right now. Kristen unpacks common strategic-planning mistakes: vague milestones, the "build the plane while we're flying it" approach, and the obsession with one giant "big tent" coalition. She and Joe also dig into why so many strategic plans sit on a shelf, what AI is changing about the speed of campaigns, and why the most important question in your planning meeting may be what you're for, not just what you're against.
Guest Info:
Kristen Grimm, Founder and Strategist at Spitfire Strategies.
Connect with Kristen on LinkedIn.
Resources:
Planning to Win — Spitfire's updated campaign planning guide and tool Replenishing Trust — Kristen's guide on rebuilding civic trust through interactivity, not just transparencyCheck out Kristen's recommendations:
Book: Don't Burn Anyone at the Stake Today by Naomi Alderman TV: Vladimir (Netflix) and Rooster (HBO / HBO Max)Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn. Sign up for our newsletter here.
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In this bonus episode of How to Win a Campaign, host Martín Diego Garcia shares a webinar recorded in September 2025 featuring two innovative leadership development programs working to solve one of campaigns' most persistent problems: what happens to great talent between election cycles. Martín sits down with Theo LeCompte of Loft Leaders and Lorenza Ramirez of Blue Line Fellows for a deep dive into how both programs are investing in the next generation of political and advocacy leaders. Whether you're a campaign staffer navigating the off-year gap, an organization looking to hire mission-driven talent, or someone curious about how progressive campaigns are developing their bench, this conversation is packed with practical insight. Both guests share how their programs work, what they look for in fellows, and how employers and mentors can get involved.
Guest Info:
Lorenza Ramirez, Founder, Blue Line Fellows. Blue Line bridges the gap between election cycles by placing top campaign talent into meaningful roles, while building their networks and skills ahead of future cycles and beyond. Learn more at bluelinefellows.com.
Theo LeCompte, Executive Director, Loft Leaders. Loft is a fully paid, year-long fellowship that provides up-and-coming leaders in campaigns and public service with access to a graduate business education. Loft gives fellows the opportunity to deepen their network and build a stronger foundation for future opportunities. Learn more at loftleaders.org.
Resources:
Arena TCW Blog: How to Land Your First Political Internship TCW Blog: Job Banks and Boards for Political CareersConnect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn. Sign up for our newsletter here.
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Joe and Martín are back to give listeners a sneak peek at what's coming in Season 5's bonus episodes. From ethical banking and mental health policy to DC voting rights and the future of advocacy, this season's lineup is packed with timely, practical conversations from some of the sharpest minds in politics and advocacy. We're also sharing a few webinar recordings — including an exclusive goal-setting training from our TCW Advocacy series. This bonus season is a must-listen, whether you're a seasoned campaigner or just getting started.
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In our final regular episode of Season 5, Heather Booth returns to share more of her journey and insights into organizing and activism, as well as the need for love and joy in sustaining long-term activism. Joe and Heather discuss the challenges of staying organized and the importance of maintaining personal connections and joy in their work.
Guest Information:
You can connect with Heather on LinkedIn or on her website.
Check out some of Heather's recommendations:
Books:
The Hard Work of Hope (Michael Ansara)Working 9 to 5: A Women's Movement, a Labor Union, and the Iconic Movie (Ellen Cassedy)Movies
The Janes (HBO Max)Freedom On My Mind (Vimeo)Salt of the Earth (Prime Video)Z (Criterion)Sinners (HBO Max)Heather Booth: Changing the World (Amazon)
Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop. -
In this episode, Joe chats with Cheryl Contee about AI’s impact on nonprofits. Cheryl discusses her book, “AI for Nonprofits,” emphasizing the importance of using AI to enhance work and make a greater difference. She also addresses concerns about AI ethics and environmental impact, advocating for transparency and responsible use. If you’ve got questions about AI, this is the episode for you!
Guest Information:
You can connect with Cheryl on LinkedIn. You can check out Cheryl's book, AI for Nonprofits here.
Some of the websites and AI tools mentioned in Cheryl's interview include:
Change AgentAI4NPNTENThere's An AI For ThatCheryl's recommendations:
TV:
Star Trek (Paramount+ and other platforms)Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop. -
In this episode, Martín dives into the tricky world of keeping alliances strong in social justice movements with Abby Levine, formerly the Executive Director and now CEO of the Jewish Social Justice Roundtable. Abby shares advice on handling tough times, staying true to your values, and why building connections is key when working together, even when it feels like your allies are drifting.
Guest information:
You can connect with Abby on LinkedIn.
Learn more about the Jewish Social Justice Roundtable by visiting their website, or you can check them out on Instagram and LinkedIn.
The Jewish Social Justice Roundtable has many online resources to offer:
Democracy and Freedom Racial JusticeJewish JusticeOrganizational CultureGiving GuideCheck out some of Abby's recommendations:
Books:
Rage Becomes Her: The Power of Women's Anger (Soraya Chemaly)Podcast:
Good Hang with Amy PoehlerTV:
The Pitt (HBO Max)Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop. -
This week, Fran (Hutch) Hutchins shares their journey from growing up in Alabama to becoming a key figure in LGBTQ+ advocacy. They discuss their work with the Equality Federation, the importance of grassroots organizing, and the challenges of sustaining motivation in long-term activism. Hutch emphasizes the significance of community support, personal resilience, and strategic planning in driving social change. The conversation also touches on the role of hope, the impact of movement history, and the need for inclusive leadership.
Guest information:
You can connect with Hutch on LinkedIn.
Learn more about the Equality Federation by visiting their website, or you can check them out on Instagram and LinkedIn.
Check out some of Hutch's recommendations:
Books:
Let the Record Show: A Political History of ACT UP New York, 1987-1993 (Sarah Schulman)Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop. -
We're offline for a much-needed holiday break for the next two weeks. How to Win a Campaign will be back with another full episode on January 7, 2026.
The Campaign Workshop is raising money this holiday season for Feeding America. Together, we can make a meaningful impact by supporting our neighbors facing hunger and their ability to gain equitable access to food. With supporters like you, we can achieve food security in America and feed what matters.
Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop. -
This week, Martín sits down with Stacey McAuliffe from the Management Center to tackle one of the toughest challenges facing organizations today: navigating budget cuts and potential layoffs. Stacey shares her thoughts on maintaining humanity and integrity during these difficult times, offering practical advice for leaders to manage tough conversations while supporting their teams. Whether you're a seasoned leader or new to management, this episode provides valuable insights to help you lead with confidence and compassion.
Guest Information:
Stacy McAuliffe, The Management Center
You can also check out The Management Center on Instagram and LinkedIn.
For toolkits and resources mentioned in this episode, check out:
Layoffs Toolkit for LeadersRe-Division of Labor WorksheetLayoff Script Sample & TemplateStacy's book recommendation:
Sea Wife (Amity Gaige)Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop. -
This week, Joe talks with Olivia Hill, who shares her journey as the first trans woman elected in Tennessee. She discusses the challenges she faced, how her passion for improving infrastructure helped her stay focused, and how she continues to bridge divides in an effort to make Nashville a better place to live.
Guest Information:
Olivia Hill, Council Member at-Large, Nashville Metro Council
You can connect with Olivia on LinkedIn.
Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop. -
This week, Jon Hoadley, a former Michigan House legislator and 2020 Democratic candidate, sits down with Martín and shares his journey through the political landscape. He discusses the challenges of media attacks, the importance of having a support system, and his commitment to public service.
Guest information:
You can connect with Jon Hoadley on LinkedIn.
Learn more about the Michigan Donor Alliance on their website.
Check out some of Jon's recommendations:
Books:
True Gretch (Gretchen Whitmer)The Purposeful Warrior (Jocelyn Benson)Hate Won't Win (Mallory McMorrow) Healing Politics (Abdul El-Sayed)Podcasts:
A Republic, If You Can Keep It (Mark Brewer, Jeff Timmer)Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop. -
We're on a break this week for Thanksgiving, but tune in to hear Joe and Martín share their favorite holiday dishes, as well as an appeal to help with spreading the spirit of giving and gratitude. Happy Thanksgiving from the Campaign Workshop team!
Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop. -
In this episode, Joe sits down with Bernadette Butler and Melanie Robledo to talk about the transformative work of The Homecoming Project and the importance of building trust within the community. Tune in to learn about the power of collaboration and the importance of language and narrative in justice work.
Guest Information:
Bernadette Butler & Melanie Robledo, Impact Justice.
You can also check out Impact Justice on Instagram and LinkedIn.
David's book, Healing Paws with Patience can be found on Amazon.
Bernadette and Melanie's book recommendations:
Prisoners of Geography (Tim Marshall); Firefly Lane, The Nightingale (Kristin Hannah)Crucial Conversations (Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler)Bernadette and Melanie's movie and TV recommendations:
Juror No. 2 (Apple TV)Nonnas (Netflix) Happy Gilmore 2 (Netflix)The Bear (Hulu)Lessons in Chemistry (Apple TV)Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop. -
This week, Julie Burkhart joins Martín to talk about her journey in reproductive health, insights on working in conservative areas, and using creative operating models to build resilient communities.
Guest Information:
Julie Burkhart, Wellspring Health Access and Hope Clinic.
You can read the New York Times profile on Julie here. She was also selected as one of Time's 100 Most Influential in Health for 2025--read more here.
Check out Wellspring Health Access on Instagram or on LinkedIn or visit the Hope Clinic on Instagram.
Julie's book recommendations:
Purple Hibiscus (Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie);Holy Ghost Girl (Donna M. Johnson)Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop. -
Dwayne Steward sits down with Joe to discuss his role as the new Executive Director of Equality Ohio, focusing on leadership, collaboration, and creating a culture of transparency and joy. He shares insights on navigating organizational change, advocating for equity, and the importance of community support.
Guest Information:
The Equity Mindset: Designing Human Spaces Through Journeys, Reflections and Practices (Ifeomasinachi Ike)Why Does Everything Have to Be About Race? (Keith Boykin)
Dwayne Steward, Equality Ohio
Check out Dwayne's recommended reads:Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop -
In this episode, Martín talks with City Thread's Kyle Wagenschutz about the challenges of communicating complex policies and infrastructure projects to the broader community. They explore strategies for making 'wonky' issues relevant and engaging, emphasizing the importance of messaging research.
Guest Information:
Kyle Wagenshutz, City Thread
Visit City Thread on LinkedIn.
Check out Kyle's book and podcast recommendations:
Abundance (Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson)Why is this Happening? (Chris Hayes)The Weekly Show (Jon Stewart)
Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop. -
This week, Joe chats with Chris Melody Fields Figueredo, who shares insight on BISC's continued commitment to a cultural shift towards inclusivity and equity, while emphasizing the importance of centering impacted communities in the democratic process. Chris also explores the role of ballot initiatives in driving social change and the ongoing efforts to build a more inclusive and equitable democracy.
Joe's recommended read:
Powerful: Building a Culture of Freedom and Responsibility (Patty McCord)
Guest Information:
Chris Melody Fields Figueredo, Ballot Initiative Strategy Center (BISC)
Check out BISC on Instagram or on LinkedIn, or listen to their new podcast, Direct Democracy Diaries!
Chris's TV show and podcast recommendations:
Traitors (NBC, Peacock)Vibe Check (Sam Sanders, Saeed Jones, and Zach Stafford)Connect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop. -
In this episode, Martín sits down with Amanda Litman, co-founder and president of Run for Something, discussing leadership change, the organization's growth, and Amanda's new book, "When We’re in Charge: The Next Generation’s Guide to Leadership." They explore the challenges and strategies of leading a political organization, the importance of aligning leadership roles with personal and organizational needs, and the impact of broader social conditions on political work.
Guest Information:
Amanda Litman, Run For Something
Check out Run for Something on Instagram, LinkedIn, or sign up for their Substack!
Connect with Amanda on her website or on Instagram or check out her two books linked below:
Run for Something: A Real-Talk Guide to Fixing the System YourselfWhen We’re in Charge: The Next Generation’s Guide to LeadershipConnect with The Campaign Workshop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Presented by The Campaign Workshop.
- Visa fler
