Rational Revolution

In the shadow of the murder of Charlie Kirk, WisGOP's 8th District Chairman Ken Sikora joins the show. Mark and Ken talk about a wide range of issues, but most importantly, they try to answer the question of how can we come together in this politically charged climate? They tackle a wide range of issues, including LGBTQ rights, and what is the root cause of extremism?

In the shadow of the murder of Charlie Kirk, WisGOP's 8th District Chairman Ken Sikora joins the show. Mark and Ken talk about a wide range of issues, but most importantly, they try to answer the question of how can we come together in this politically charged climate? They tackle a wide range of issues, including LGBTQ rights, and what is the root cause of extremism?

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network  and airs Saturdays at 2 across the network. . Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss ou...

This week, Mark sits down with another Democratic candidate for Wisconsin's 8th Congressional District, Rick Crosson. Rick talks about his military experience, business experience, and civic experience and how he believes he can use that to mount a challenge to Tony Wied.

Mark also asks Rick a tough question; if you believe the Democratic Party is the right way forward, why did you accept the Republican Party's endorsement earlier this year?

Mark then gets real about what we need to see in next year's midterm elections. 

This week Mark sits down with 8th District Congressional candidate Mark Scheffler.

Photo from the Post Crescent

In the discussion, Mark talks about what he hopes to do if elected. He also makes a shocking statement about renouncing his party label if elected that takes our fearless host by surprise. 

In his musings, Mark talks about what he believes is the roadmap to success in 2026, and how candidates need to craft their message to meet the moment with more centrist voters. This one is a can't miss!

Geoff Kabaservice joins the program to talk about the historical parallels between today's politics and some of history's more notorious authoritarian leaders. They discuss the redistricting “Civil War” going on, and what Ronald Reagan would say about today's Republican Party.

Mark then shares a story about the death of Dr. James Dobson and how his legacy was one of pain and discrimination.

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Saturdays at 2 across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a si...

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Jill Underly joins the show. They talk all things back to school, from the new re-organization of DPI to the new ways school districts work with children who have learning disabilities. They also spend time talking about vouchers and how school funding is, as Dr. Underly said, "a car running on fumes."

Mark then talks about his experience going through school as a child with ADHD and talks about how he is encouraged to see education changing in how they help those kids.

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a p...

Mark is joined by Festival Foods CEO Mark Skogen (amongst many other titles)! They talk about what makes Festival Foods special and why it means so much to give back to the community. Mark shares about his baseball team The Green Bay Rockers, the concert event center, and how he got through the Covid-19 pandemic.

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Saturdays at 2 across the network. Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show...

Fresh off announcing her candidacy for Governor, Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez joins the show! Lt. Gov. Rodriguez talks about how Covid sparked her interest in politics, and how she's stepped to the next level quickly. She shares how her family reacted to the decision, as well as how she plans to govern.

Mark then turns the spotlight on Congressman Tony Wied as he tries to find traction during his first term in office. Mark talks about why he has earned the nickname, "Tone Deaf Tony." TUNE IN!

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part...

Thanks for joining us this weekend for another edition of Rational Revolution across the Civic Media radio network. This week, Mark Becker sits down with CEO of Festival Foods Mark Skogen for a conversation about business, life and so much more.

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Saturdays at 2 across the network. . Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https...

Mark is joined by Laura McCoy, member of and former President of the Green Bay Area Public School Board. They talk about a wide range of issues from what it means to be a member of the board, and how transparency can be difficult. They then do a deep dive on school funding, vouchers, and the impacts of the state budget to the local school districts.

In Mark's Musings, he builds on the conversation with Laura McCoy and talks about how vouchers negatively impact this community and he cites a local example of what happens when voucher...

This week, State Senator Kristin Dassler-Alfheim joins the show to talk about the state budget! They discuss how negotiations went, where the state is headed, and how the budget will impact families in Wisconsin.

Mark then asks Senator Dassler-Alfheim, "why do you do it?" They talk about how to find the joys in watching their children grow instead of focusing on the loss of their childhood.

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network  and airs Saturdays at 2 across the network. . Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not t...

This week's show starts with a message from Rational Revolution Host Mark Becker. Mark clarifies some statements he made about the 2024 election in last week's show.

"If I make a mistake that might cast doubt in the hearts and the minds of our listeners, especially when it comes to things like the election, I do want to get that corrected. Because that's true to my integrity, and it's true to the integrity of the show. Last week, in the heat of discussion, I incorrectly said that Kamala Harris got more votes than Donald Trump. She didn't. She...

Carlton Huffman joins the show and talks about the impacts of the bombing attacks on Iran. Were they needed? Were they impactful? What type of uncertainty is opened up now with Iran? Carlton and Mark then talk about the "One Big Beautiful Bill." Is it going to pass? What will it do to our budget? How will it hurt people on Medicaid?

Mark then gives thanks for the mentorship and guidance of Civic Media's own, Todd the God. Tune in!

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network  and a...

This week, Mark sits down with former Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen to talk about his work with the Democracy Defense Project. They talk about initiatives the bipartisan group supports, including the common sense effort to allow municipalities to begin working on mail-in ballots before the polls close.

Mark asks the question of how JB can consider himself a Republican while the head of the party is the world's most famous election denier? 

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network  and airs Saturdays at 2 across the network. . Sub...

This week, Mark sits down with Civic Media Political Director Dan Shafer. They discuss Dan's blockbuster article that urges Gov. Tony Evers to NOT seek another term. They talk about the ramifications of that decision, who may be a good alternative, and the feedback he's received. 

Mark then talks about how people on the left need to condemn violence in protests, even when it's hard to do so. 

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network  and airs Saturdays at 2 across the network. . Subscribe to the podcast to be sure...

This week, Mark sits down with State Representative Amaad Rivera-Wagner. They talk about the state budget, and the issues facing the budget's passage, and how items were removed that help schools, students, and women. They also talk about the relocation of a famous Green Bay landmark!

In the final segment, Mark talks about how a legacy doesn't need to be written in marble, or flashing on a billboard, but in a humble life that serves others.

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network  and airs Saturdays at 2 across t...

This week joining the Revolution is candidate for WisDems Chair, Devin Remiker! Mark and Devin discuss his plans for running the party and the steps they need to take to "cast a wider net." They also discuss the legacy of Ben Wikler, and how Devin can build on the momentum created to win some major elections in 2026 and beyond.

In Mark's musings, he talks about what it means to "live life like Thelma," and how to cherish every moment you have.

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network  a...

Newspaper industry has changed a lot over the years and some may be surprised it's still standing today. Most people don't read print anymore and instead everyone gets news on their phone. Mark sits down with Press Gazette Investigative Reporter, Doug Schneider, who says "once it's been printed, it's old news."

Mark's Musings dives into Mark's recent trip to Boston.

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network  and airs Saturdays at 2 across the network. . Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single e...

Mark is on vacation! This week, Pastor Jerry Bader steps in to guest host Rational Revolution.

It's a topic that's been burning up Green Bay area social media. It's called the "Silent Epidemic:" adult children estranged from their parents. There is now a peer group in Green Bay to support parents: PEACE. Pastor Jerry Bader of Samaritan's Heart Mission Church talks with Brian Briscoe, founder of PLACE, Parents Living After Child Estrangement.

They're cutting vital programs like Social Security and Medicaid that Americans have paid into throughout their working lives - not to balance the...

Lynn Meshke joins Mark to talk about "Saving Medicaid." They go in depth to talk about who is served by Medicaid and how the scope of service will surprise you.

Lynn gives her personal story on how she became involved in the fight, and she answers the question of whether or not legislators know the truth, all while shouting how "waste, fraud and abuse" is rampant. Lynn then details what is on the chopping block and how soon we could see action on it.

In the musings segment, Mark talks about how saving medicaid can...

Former WI Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes talk with Mark about what's next for the Democratic party. Who can step into Ben Wikler shoes? What messaging should the Dems lean into? Will Governor Tony Evers run for another term? And what's next for Mandela...could he run for another office soon?

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network  and airs Saturdays at 2 across the network. . Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of the programming a...

Mark is joined by returning guest and everyone's favorite fly in MAGA's ointment, Carlton Huffman to recap the first 100 days of Trump's presidency. They talk about tariffs and how they are impacting everything from farms to Carlton's family's textile business. They then share a warning about the spread of authoritarianism and what can be done to stop it.

In Mark's musings, he asks the question on Easter weekend, "what is faith?" And, he shares a message for listeners that you don't want to miss.

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic M...

This week, Mark sits down once again with Dr. Kristin Lyerly to talk about the most pivotal issue in modern politics over the past 40 year; abortion. Dr. Lyerly uses her expertise in the field to answer questions that have surrounded the issue for decades. This discussion is a can't miss! 

Mark and Kristin also discuss her new show, "The Doctor Kristin Lyerly Show" now on Civic Media!

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network  and airs Saturdays at 2 across the network. . Subscribe to the podcast to be sure no...

On this week's episode of the Rational Revolution, Mark sits down with former 8th District GOP Secretary Tracy Mangold to talk about the current state of the party, and the recent dust up from the caucus that made national news!

Mark and Tracy are joined by Dr. Kristin Lyerly to recap the election results and talk about what she's been up to. They discuss how election night felt, and what it means for the cause of Democracy going forward.

Mark then shares his thoughts on how to combat trap issues like the voter ID issue t...

This week we have a full episode with our old friend, State Senator Kristin Dassler-Alfheim! In the first segment, they are joined by State Supreme Court candidate Susan Crawford. The three talk about what is at stake for this race, and Judge Crawford gives a candid response about her thoughts over redistricting.

We’ve got a lot of work to do as a state to make sure people are represented.

Then, Mark and Kristin go into detail on how we work with the division that exists. Sen. Alfheim discusses some frustration she ha...

On this week's program, Mark Becker talks with Xochtil Torres Small, former Deputy Secretary of Agriculture under President Biden, and Daniel Olson, a Wisconsin dairy farmer. The conversation digs into how changes from the Trump administration affect our state's farming community. Xochitl speaks about what is going on from the government side of the industry, and Daniel is able to bring what's happening to a hyper-local level. The discussion also hits on the Trump administration's use of tariffs and how it's already begun to hurt our family farms. Mark ends the show by giving his thoughts on Tony Wied...

What is the purpose of the USAID?

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is the principal U.S. agency to extend assistance to countries recovering from disaster, trying to escape poverty, and engaging in democratic reforms.

Joining the Revolution this week is Kristina Drye, who was the speechwriter for Samantha Power, Administrator of USAID. Kristina goes into great detail as to why USAID matters, what the program did, and how our national security will be severely impacted by the shuttering of the agency.

She gives insight on what it was like...

Mark is joined by former Lt. Governor of Maryland and former RNC Chairman, Michael Steele. They talk about what has happened since Donald Trump's inauguration, what the path forward is, and what people can do about it.

People want to come to America despite what goes on here and now we have someone who wants to put that up for sale.

Mark talks about how he was texting with Adam Kinsinger on inauguration morning and he asked him how he was doing. Adam replied "It sucks, but I'm still hopeful." He asks Michael...

Head of WisDems, Ben Wikler, joins the Revolution this week to discuss the state of all things political! Ben gives thoughtful insight on his recent run for DNC Chair, and opens up about uncertainty over his own future.

They touch on what is at stake in the State Supreme Court race, and how that race can tip the balance of power for the House of Representatives in 2026. Ben and Mark also discuss the races for State Superintendent, and how damaging vouchers have been for public education in Wisconsin.

We don’t need to have as mu...

This week, Representative Amaad Rivera-Wagner and former DC Capitol Police Officer, author, and Presidential Citizens Medal recipient Harry Dunn join Mark to talk about the January 6th attack and why it still matters. They discuss the Wisconsin State Supreme Court race and how these upcoming elections all tie back to the basic fundamentals of Democracy that were severely in jeopardy on that day.

Mark then recaps the discussion, and talks about why we should never forget what happened, until the people who made it happen are no longer in power.

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker i...

Mark Becker is joined by Adam Kinzinger, former U.S representative and a pilot in the Air National Guard. Adam shares more information on his book Renegade: Defending Democracy and Liberty in Our Divided Country, and what the story was behind the book. Adam and Mark talk about the Jan. 6th insurrection.

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Saturdays at 2 across the network. . Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss out on a single episode! To learn more about the show and all of th...

This week, Mark sits down with returning guest, Geoff Kabaservice, the VP of Political Studies for the Niskanen Center. They discuss a wide range of topics from, "are we overreacting," to "what does the future look like?" With Geoff's brilliant knowledge of world political history, he explains what the next two years look like.

 If you’re thinking about the other side as your enemeis and about removing them from public life altogether, then you have wandered into Nazi life

Mark then gives his thoughts on how to spot someone who is about to...

Civic Media's own Dan Shafer from the Recombobulation Area joins Mark to talk about what legacy President Biden leaves after the Harris loss. They discuss what blame falls on the shoulders of the former President for not bowing out earlier, and the damage done to the party as a whole from the fallout. They also talk about the whirlwind of a first week in office for President Trump. Finally, they touch on what the Democrats need to do in order to have success again.

"They got to change the way they talk to people." Dan Shafer in r...

This week, Mark sits down with State Senator Jamie Wall and Representative Amaad Rivera-Wagner! They discuss the next two years, and how to put people ahead of politics.

“This an opening, regardless of who you voted for, we are going to serve you, engage you and listen to you…” Amaad Rivera-Wagner

They share about the need to bring Madison to their districts, and talk about their in-district swearing in ceremony. Mark then discusses the importance of what lies ahead for all of us in a powerful final segment.

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a p...

Mark Becker is joined by U.S Representative Mark Pocan. Mark opens the show by mourning the death of the 39th President Jimmy Carter. Mark Pocan shares thoughts on the wildfires that are going on in Los Angeles. After the election, Becker and Rep. Pocan answer the question of what now? Rep. Pocan shares that he will keep fighting for increasing minimum wage, healthcare access, childcare more affordable.

Rep. Pocan answers his plans for the next term? He shares that it is Fighting the bad stuff, putting a package together for Medicare advantages for everyone, seniors included...

Mark Becker is joined by former Illinois Congressman and radio talk host, Joe Walsh. Joe and Mark talk about the recent attack in New Orleans. Joe shares his thoughts on why he thinks this attack happened while also sharing how members of Congress are notified.

Joe then talks about Donald Trump election. A month after the election, Joe and Mark answer the question of what now? What level of influence can former Republicans expect to have going forward?

Mark shares his thoughts on the conversation between Joe and what candidates need to do leading up...

Joining the show this weekend is UW Green Bay Professor and Chair of Democracy and Justice Studies, Dr. Jon Shelton and Human Rights Activist and older brother of your host, John Becker. Mark asks to dive into a publication Dr. Shelton published earlier this month: Why Democrats Are Losing Americans Without a College Degree—and How to Win Them Back, an article summarizing how voters know that the economy has not worked well for decades.

Dr Shelton says Democrats must offer a transformative vision and stick to it for as long as it takes. He believes as a...

Senator Tammy Baldwin talks with Mark about her campaign and her win in the state. But she also talks about what the next few years look like for the state and the work she needs to get done. One of the bills she's working on, the Commitment to Veteran Support Outreach Act, will help our veterans who have served and are serving our state and country. Senator Baldwin shares stories about some veterans who have claimed they were misdiagnosed through the VA and needed to go to the private sector for a second opinion. This bill could help hundreds...

Dan Shafer, Founder of the Recombobulation Area and Civic Media's Political Member, joins host Mark Becker to answer this:

What really happened in Wisconsin in the 2024 Presidential Election?

Besides discussing the closeness of the Presidential Election, Mark also asks Dan about the difference between the 3rd Congressional District and the 8th. What's next for Wisconsin in 2026? And how will Tony Evers do if he runs for re-election? Mark muses in the last segment about the CEO Assassin and his thoughts on the situation that is brewing.

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a...

Mark is joined by new WI State Senate Elect for District 18 and friend of the show/former host, Kris Alfheim. Kris and Mark talk about her experience running for State Senate and winning! Then talk about rational thought between each side you are on, and start to pick philosophy. Mark gives his final thoughts on the conversation during Mark's Musings.

Mark Becker & Kris Alfheim

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part of the Civic Media radio network and airs Saturdays at 2 across the network. . Subscribe to the podcast to be sure not to miss...