Rational Revolution

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...

Taking a break for the holiday weekend, Mark wanted to take a look back at his conversation about mental health with writer and journalist Natalie Eilbert.

Originally from New York, she has come to love Wisconsin, and her journalism work will now take her to Milwaukee. She is currently focusing her reporting on mental health in the state. She says that we seem to be doing better than other states, but more could still be done. Her recent work is called "Kids In Crisis" and discusses the differences in the needs for children and teens.

...

Political Strategist, Co-Founder of the Lincoln Project and Author of The Latino Century: How America's Largest Minority Is Transforming Democracy, Mike Madrid joins host Mark Becker to give his expertise on the possible mass deportations that threaten the future based off what has happened in the past. There has been 2 past incidents of mass deportation in the US history which resulted in removing thousands of American Citizens.

"Do I believe he wills crack down on trying to the most violent offenders out there? And they are out there, no one is trying to dispute that, but will...

Former Illinois Congressman and National Radio Host Joe Walsh joins Mark this week discussing post-election results and the state of the parties now. Key points are did Biden damage Kamala's campaign by staying in the race too long? What could have been done differently to make her campaign successful?

It has never been seen before where a candidate could say anything and it doesn't matter. "He was right a long time ago that he could shoot anyone in New York City and it wouldn't matter. That's a dangerous place to be." The divide the Republican party brings...

Carlton Huffman joins Mark to help break things down post election. Carlton dives into the aspects of Trump's campaign that ended up being successful for him and the difference between his and Vice President Harris's campaign as well as what could have been done different. Carlton refers to Biden waiting as long as he did to drop out as part of the issue to these results.

But will Kamala run again? Carlton talks about how the democratic party may never nominate a woman as president for a long time and how heart breaking that fact alone is...

With the election only one week away, Mark Becker is joined by Dr. Kristin Lyerly and Kris Alfheim. Dr. Lyerly and Kris talk about the sacrifice it has on family while campaigning, signs being defaced, and civil dialogue. In the last segment Mark gives his closing arguments of how the discussion went.

Dr. Kristin Lyerly, Mark Becker, and Kris Alfheim

To learn more about this show and all of the programming across the Civic Media network, head over to https://civicmedia.us/shows to see the entire broadcast line up. Follow the network on Facebook, X, Y...

With the Presidential Election less than two weeks away, Mark invites Senator Rob Cowles in studio. Sen. Cowles talks about reinventing himself as he's coming to the end of his political career, having announced in April he will not be running for re-election effectively ending the longest-serving incumbent in the Wisconsin Legislature. He thanks his supporters over the years and his staffers that stayed with him. "I've had a good run and it was time for me. And I'm grateful to have, lucky to have good health..." "You have to accept the results. Peaceful transfer of power".

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To say Mark is geeking out is an understatement as he invites Vice President of Political Studies at the Niskanen Center, Geoff Kabaservice, to the show. Geoff, who is also author of Rule and Ruin: The Downfall of Moderation and the Destruction of the Republican Party, From Eisenhow to the Tea Party, discusses excerpts from his book and aspects of the 2024 election versus this country's past.

Geoff says Trump wins if he loses and wins if he wins because he'll never admit defeat and it'll fuel his cause. "Chaos is Trump's friend". As we dive further into...

Wisconsin State Senator Chris Larson joins Mark this weekend to talk about why it's too hot not to vote. Right not it's all eyes on weather response and seeing how bad the storm surges are getting down south. So are we still denying climate change? Or can we see it's truly happening now. Jamie Wall, Candidate for Senate District 30, joins to guest host with Sen. Larson to dive into Project 2025. What do we know and what don't we know and what is ultimately at stake here. One of the most effective things a voter can do is talk to...

Former Lieutenant Governor of Maryland and chair of the Republican National Committee from 2009 until 2011, Michael Steele joins host Mark Becker for this edition of Rational Revolution.

Michael, who still considers him a Republican because quote: "It pisses them off", talks about the old Republican party, where he thinks it is and what conservative should mean, which is to "conserve prosperity", and ultimately how republicans used to talk about inclusivity. What happened and how did the GOP become the version of itself that it is? And how do we get back to that? Michael dives in.

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Returning guest Carlton Huffman joins host Mark Becker whilst awaiting landfall of Hurricane Helene to talk about what things have changed with the election since they last spoke, which happened to be when President Biden was the Democratic Nominee. Carlton says on the plus side for democrats he feels the odds are looking that they will retake the house of representatives.

Mark talks about his concerns if the GOP loses and wonders will we repeat January of 2021? Carlton describes how some rules have changed as a result of that event with Georgia as an example who now...

This week, Mark sits down with Harris-Walz State Campaign Manager Garren Randolph. Garren and Mark breakdown a statement for the Teamsters Joint Council 39. Mark talks his background with Garren, the Trump-Harris debate, and Harris agenda.

Former Congressman Joe Walsh joins the conversation. Walsh was previously a conservative politician but is endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris over Donald Trump. Mark can't help but ask: why the change?

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...

This week, host Mark Becker sits down with US Representaive for the 2nd District in Wisconsin, Congressman Mark Pocan. They start their discussion with how he got into politics, the connections between Mark Becker's family to Mark Pocan's, and his LGBTQ+ activism. We get a nice breakdown of who is running and how they're representing themselves from a Madison Politician's point of view, speaking about their characteristics as a person beyond politics. This segues into the the popular question on everyone's mind: The Presidential Debate, what are their thoughts?

Rational Revolution with Mark Becker is a part...