Point Taken with Steve Scaffidi & Kristin Brey

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey react to the Brewers’ tough Game 4 loss, the wild atmosphere at Milwaukee watch parties and the emotional “Stand Up to Cancer” tribute. They also break down the cycle’s worst political ads, what the governor’s race has become and whether voters are choosing a candidate—or simply voting against one. Moran’s Pub joins to discuss the excitement in South Milwaukee, while Greg Matzek previews Game 5 from Tampa Bay.

Kristin Brey is joined by Colleston Morgan Jr. of City Forward Collective and writer-organizer Garrett Buck for a deeper conversation about school choice, public education and the difficult decisions Milwaukee parents face. Inspired by Nikole Hannah-Jones’ writing about her family’s education choices, they discuss race, privilege, school quality, community responsibility and the tension between supporting public schools and doing what is best for your own children.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey celebrate the Brewers’ Game 3 World Series blowout and the excitement building across Milwaukee. They also discuss Archbishop Jeffrey Grob’s White House visit and the intersection of faith and politics. Heather DuBois Bourenane and Jeff Mandel join to discuss a lawsuit seeking better funding for Wisconsin schools. Plus, Rick Esenberg and Homer True share their Brewers perspectives as Milwaukee chases its first championship.

WISN’s Matt Smith recaps the Tom Tiffany–David Crowley debate and discusses the moments that stood out, including Tiffany’s answer on the 2020 election and Crowley’s tax plan. Greg Matzek joins from Tampa Bay as the Brewers take a 2-0 series lead, while Dave Spano discusses inflation, interest rates, AI threats to financial institutions and the economy. Plus, Alex Strouf breaks down the Packers’ loss to the Lions and the team’s ongoing struggles.

Tiffany debate, the final days before the election, Wisconsin’s congressional races and whether a Republican “blue wave” is really coming. They also discuss Vivek Ramaswamy’s controversial ad, national politics and the war in Ukraine. Plus, Kristin explores the psychology behind the Brewers’ postseason run, and Kyle Wallace previews World Series Game 1.

It's the Brewers vs the Rays, Crowley vs Tiffany, Tequila vs tequila, and more... It's the Week-In-Review brought to you by Outdoor Living Unlimited!

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey break down the David Crowley–Tom Tiffany governor’s debate, including the “Zuckerbucks” controversy and whether either candidate changed voters’ minds. City Forward Collective’s Colleston Morgan Jr. discusses MPS enrollment and school accountability. Urban Milwaukee’s Jeramey Jannene shares debate reactions, neighborhood news, free beer plans and the Hiawatha rail extension. Plus, Josh DiMaggio previews the Brewers’ World Series run.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey react to Vivek Ramaswamy’s controversial attack ad against Amy Acton and examine the strategy behind political advertising across Wisconsin and the country. They preview the WISN 12 governor’s debate, discuss undecided suburban voters and early voting, and break down the Brewers’ Timeless Ticket controversy. Plus, Gabe Neitzel previews the World Series and reflects on what it means to watch the Brewers reach the championship after more than 40 years as a fan.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey discuss the start of early voting, the decline in absentee ballots and growing suspicion around the election process. They also examine warning signs in the auto loan market, Alberta’s vote to remain part of Canada and what the collapse of a libertarian community in New Hampshire says about government. Steve remembers Bob Uecker through clips from a 2023 interview. Michelle Rassch from Epilogue Bookstore in Menomonee Falls explains how the store is capitalizing on Brewers excitement, while Greg Matzek previews the World Series and shares what it’s like covering the team from inside the cred...

Kristin Brey talks with Michael Barbaro, host of The New York Times Daily podcast, about the show’s evolution, the challenges of covering a deeply polarized country and the editorial decisions behind its biggest stories. Barbaro explains how The Daily finds compelling characters, tells complex stories through audio and makes sense of the political swings shaping America ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. He also reflects on Wisconsin’s growing influence in national politics and previews his upcoming Madison appearance.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey are joined by WISN’s Matt Smith and Gerron Jordan to preview the first and only Wisconsin governor’s debate. They discuss the key issues, potential “gotcha” questions and the state of the race as voters prepare to hear directly from the candidates. Annex Wealth Management’s Dave Spano breaks down the financial impact of the Brewers’ World Series run, the latest tech stocks and upcoming corporate earnings reports. Plus, Alex Strouf celebrates the Packers’ latest win and joins the show for a “Love fest.”

Faith and politics are often treated as separate worlds, but for many people, they are inseparable. In *Faith in Politics*, 620 WTMJ’s Steve Scaffidi speaks with faith leaders from Catholic, Episcopal, Jewish, Muslim, Pentecostal and Methodist traditions about how belief shapes public life. The series explores voting and civic responsibility, justice, immigration, religious freedom, political disagreement, polarization and the challenge of living out faith beyond a place of worship. Together, these conversations examine whether faith can help restore dignity, dialogue and unity to an increasingly divided country.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey are joined by Democratic strategist Joe Zepecki and Republican strategist Bill McCoshen to celebrate the Brewers reaching the World Series and discuss how the team’s success is shaping the political mood in Wisconsin. The panel examines the tightening governor’s race between David Crowley and Tom Tiffany, the upcoming debate, campaign messaging and the congressional contests drawing national attention. They also discuss the new White House press secretary and the scrutiny surrounding her qualifications. Alex Strouf joins to celebrate the Brewers’ historic run and remind fans that the job is not finished. Plus, Kristin previe...

The Crew wins the pennant, a crash in Sauk County, the fire chief issues a challenge, and more... It's the Week-In-Review brought to you by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey react to the Brewers’ huge win over the Dodgers, putting Milwaukee one victory away from another World Series appearance. They also examine new polling on voters’ financial concerns and enthusiasm for the midterm elections. Colleston Morgan Jr. discusses City Forward Collective’s polling on school accountability and what the results mean for Milwaukee families and the governor’s race. Plus, Jeramey Jannene covers habitual parking violators and regional rail expansion, while Greg Matzek breaks down how the Brewers built a team capable of winning it all.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey examine the latest controversy in Wisconsin’s governor’s race, including Tom Tiffany’s attacks on David Crowley and Crowley’s response in a pre-show interview. Chuck Bell from Consumer Reports joins the show to discuss AI-generated scams and deepfakes targeting older adults. The hosts also debate the growing conflict between sports media and gambling, following an ESPN producer’s resignation over the network’s betting policies. Plus, Kyle Wallace previews NLCS Game 3 as the Brewers move closer to another World Series appearance.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey discuss growing support for Medicare for All, rising healthcare costs and the strain on the nation’s healthcare system. They also explore the political influence of evangelical voters and preview the Faith and Politics podcast series. Plus, the hosts examine Elon Musk’s political spending, campaign ad “trigger warnings” and a deadly amusement park accident. Gabe Neitzel joins the show to celebrate the Brewers’ wins over the Dodgers and explain why this team believes it can win the World Series.

Steve Scaffidi flies solo with WISN’s Matt Smith to break down the Attorney General debate, including questions about illegal immigration, lawsuits against the Trump administration and Flock cameras. They also preview the upcoming Wisconsin governor’s debate. Plus, Annex Wealth Management’s Dave Spano discusses the latest financial news and how politics and interest rates affect investors. Alex Strouf joins Steve to recap the Packers’ 31–7 win over the Bears and preview Sunday night’s matchup with the Cowboys.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey examine whether Wisconsin Democrats could win a state government trifecta, the impact of Barack Obama’s endorsement of David Crowley, and Tom Tiffany’s challenge in the governor’s race. They also discuss national political trends, fiscal responsibility, government programs, campaign strategy and the growing influence of sports betting and prediction markets. Listen to Decision Wisconsin for an in-depth look at the issues shaping the state’s next election.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey are joined by Democratic strategist Joe Zepecki and Anthony Birch of Platform Communications to discuss the upcoming midterm elections, affordability, corruption and whether Democrats are facing a “Republican undertow” instead of a blue wave. Maryland Governor Wes Moore joins the show to discuss his state’s accomplishments and Wisconsin policy. The panel also reacts to Barack Obama’s endorsement of David Crowley, a Green Party candidate’s road-rage incident and this week’s “Say Something Nice.” Plus, ESPN Milwaukee's Ben Brust previews the Brewers’ NLCS matchup with the Dodgers and explains why Milwaukee’s pitching staff could decide t

The Brewers advance, a substitute imposter, MKE airport celebrates a century, and more... It's the Week-In-Review brought to you by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey celebrate the Brewers advancing to the NLCS and discuss former President Barack Obama’s endorsement of David Crowley in Wisconsin’s governor’s race. Gabe Neitzel joins the show to break down the Brewers’ playoff run, team confidence and the upcoming matchup with the Dodgers. Plus, Urban Milwaukee’s Jeramey Jannene discusses Milwaukee County road construction, Oak Leaf Trail bike lanes, Flock cameras, the county budget and the latest developments in Bay View. Steve also previews the upcoming Faith in Politics podcast series on 620 WTMJ.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey discuss Christa Pike’s failed execution, her future under the death penalty and whether the justice system gives enough consideration to a person’s background. They also examine protests and economic challenges in France, President Trump’s name appearing on passports, Brewers baseball, diversity in MLB and the ongoing struggle facing local news—including declining Journal Sentinel subscribers and questions about media objectivity.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey react to Donald Trump’s comments about Iran, the potential impact of the midterm elections, and concerns about what could happen if Republicans lose control of Congress. They also discuss the threat of a future pandemic, growing distrust in science and government, and whether America learned anything from COVID-19. The conversation turns to the loss of dinner parties and “third spaces” where people can connect. Plus, Greg Matzek joins to discuss the Brewers’ clubhouse, team chemistry and the NLDS matchup with the Padres.

Steve Scaffidi goes solo with WISN’s Matt Smith to discuss Sean Duffy and Jameson Greer’s visit to Milwaukee, the state of Wisconsin’s job market, and the messaging challenges facing both political parties. They also preview the upcoming David Crowley-Tom Tiffany governor’s debate and the attorney general debate. Dave Spano breaks down the latest Fed decision, GDP growth and a possible October surprise for the markets. Plus, Alex Strouf reacts to the Packers’ win over Tampa Bay and the team’s turbulent season.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey are joined by Joe Zepecki and Bill McCoshen to discuss the Jack Smith hearing, congressional dysfunction, and the backlash over lawmakers leaving Washington ahead of the midterms. The panel breaks down the latest Marquette Law School poll and the tight race between David Crowley and Tom Tiffany, including the impact of outside money and campaign staffing. Hour two covers concerns about President Trump’s health, the reopening of the Watergate case, “Say Something Nice,” and the Brewers’ championship hopes. Plus, Steve and Kristin revisit interviews with Robin Yount and Charlie Berens on baseball, Christian Yelich, and Wisc...

The Brewers head into October, another ban in Watertown, an emergency landing in the Middle East, and more... It's the Week-In-Review brought to you by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

With Steve Scaffidi off, Kristin Brey is joined by former U.S. Attorney Jim Santelle to discuss the Trump administration’s fight with the media, campaign press restrictions, Wisconsin Supreme Court cases, and the difference between what is legal and what is right. They also examine the Cornell sexual assault case, fraternity accountability, and campus rape laws. In Hour 2, Urban Milwaukee’s Jeramey Jannene breaks down Milwaukee’s latest headlines, including leadership changes at the Wisconsin Center District, cuts to the county courthouse project, an immigration case involving a Milwaukee Muslim leader, and the opening of the Gary Grunau Memorial Plaza.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey examine a congressional blunder involving Jack Smith, the dangers of political news silos, and the Watertown School District’s decision to allow Flashdance as a school play. Trade Ambassador Jameson Greer joins the show to discuss the G20, tariffs, and the Trump administration’s trade agenda. Plus, Steve and Kristin react to the rebranding of artificial intelligence as “super intelligence,” debate data centers in the Crowley-Tiffany governor’s race, and speak with Brian Reisinger about food insecurity, food deserts, and the loss of grocery stores in Milwaukee.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey welcome comedian and Wisconsin advocate Charlie Berens to discuss his new organization, Build Wisconsin Better, and the growing debate over artificial intelligence and data center construction. Berens explains why he believes Wisconsin should pause new data center projects until communities have a clear plan, how AI could concentrate power in fewer hands, and why the technology’s potential benefits must be weighed against its environmental, economic, and social risks. The conversation also covers political accountability, renewable energy, the race to compete with China, and how Wisconsinites can have a greater voice in shaping the state’s fu...

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey discuss President Trump’s campaign involvement, political spending, and whether a controversial government-funded PSA crosses the line. They also respond to listener concerns about rising gas and grocery prices and Congress’ lack of action. Justice Rebecca Dallet joins the show for Jury Appreciation Month to explain the importance of jury service, the selection process, and how technology is changing jury searches. Plus, Steve and Kristin examine rising death rates among young Americans, the opioid and suicide crises, and the impact of GLP-1 medications. Forward Together’s Colleston Morgan discusses MPS’ excess school buildings, declining enrollment, and the...

WISN’s Matt Smith joins Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey to discuss Francesca Hong’s campaign, the upcoming attorney general debate, and the latest developments in Wisconsin’s statewide races. They also examine the controversy surrounding the Tom Tiffany campaign blocking Journal Sentinel reporters from an event. The show tackles a sexual assault case at Cornell and the broader conversation about campus safety and institutional accountability. Plus, Dave Spano breaks down housing inventory, interest rates, gas prices and tariffs, while Steve and Kristin honor Dan Bice, react to a Trump administration PSA, and celebrate the Brewers’ historic 103-win season.

Steve Scaffidi hosts the Political Power Hour with Joe Zepecki and Jake Curtis to discuss Tom Tiffany blocking a Journal Sentinel reporter and how it compares with the Trump administration’s treatment of the media. The conversation also covers rising gas and grocery prices, inflation’s impact on the midterm elections, U.S.-China relations, and growing concerns about artificial intelligence. Plus, the show’s “Say Something Nice” segment, a look at the Obama Presidential Center, and Alex Strouf joins to discuss whether the Packers have officially hit rock bottom.

100 wins for the Crew, media organizations banned from the White House, hazing in Madison, and more... It's the Week-In-Review brought to you by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

Steve and Kristin examine the Trump administration’s restrictions on White House media access and compare them with Barack Obama’s approach to the press. They also discuss America’s troubling reading scores, Wisconsin’s education challenges, and lessons from Mississippi’s turnaround. Urban Milwaukee’s Jeramey Jannene breaks down Mayor Cavalier Johnson’s proposed $2.26 billion budget, street repairs, public safety staffing, parking-meter changes, affordable housing, and possible Common Council raises.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey go “Overtime” to debate the rise of concierge services for college students. A business that acts as a “mom for hire” by doing laundry, cleaning dorm rooms, delivering snacks, and helping students adjust to life away from home. Are these services helpful support for young adults, or are they preventing college students from learning how to take care of themselves? Steve and Kristin also discuss parenting, independence, mentorship, and the changing college experience. Overtime is exclusive to the Extra Points newsletter. Subscribe to hear more conversations that go beyond the daily show.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey discuss campaign fundraising, the role of outside money in politics, and whether candidates should distance themselves from President Trump. Will Flanders of the Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty explains the two constitutional amendments on Wisconsin’s November ballot: limits on the governor’s partial-veto power and a proposal addressing preferential treatment by governmental entities. Wisconsin referendum notice The show also examines Kalshi and the debate over prediction-market regulation, updates from the Milwaukee Diaper Mission, and the growing influence of sports betting. Plus, Laura Kostelnik Biskupic and Katherine Biskupic discuss their book, Lambeau Ladies, and the wome...

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey discuss the Trump administration’s decision to restrict access for several news organizations, public attitudes toward partisan news, and the debate over press freedom. Canadian economic expert Todd Hirsch joins the show to explain the impact of U.S.-Canada tariffs, immigration policy, and the ongoing trade dispute. The show also examines Rebecca Cooke’s decision not to participate in a debate with Derrick Van Orden, the Bucks’ new jersey-patch partnership with Uline, UWM’s three-year teacher-training program for MPS, and the latest update from the Milwaukee Diaper Mission.

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey speak with WISN 12’s Matt Smith about the debate over data centers in Wisconsin Rapids, media access concerns involving the Trump administration, and the challenges of covering political campaigns. Wisconsin Public Radio AP News Meagan Johnson of the Milwaukee Diaper Mission discusses the organization’s work supporting families and expanding access to training pants. Dave Spano explains the Federal Reserve’s latest interest-rate decision, tariffs, AI investment, and what it could mean for consumers and investors. Federal Reserve Plus, Alex Strouf breaks down the Packers’ win over the Jets, the team’s offensive line concerns, and what c...

Steve Scaffidi and Kristin Brey discuss Macklemore’s removal from Ed Sheeran’s tour after expressing support for Palestine, along with questions about free speech and celebrity activism. Democratic strategist Joe Zepecki and Republican strategist Bill McCoshen join the Political Power Hour to discuss the possibility of a Democratic wave, rising costs, the impact of the Iran conflict, Wisconsin’s governor’s race, AI oversight, and the future of the Kennedy Center. Catch Point Taken weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon Central on 620 WTMJ or wherever you get your podcasts.