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Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast's 2026 Changemaker Candidate Conversation Series, hosts Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl sit down with William Whalen, Democratic candidate for Kentucky House District 64. A fourth-generation union worker, IBEW electrician, and Independence resident, Whalen shares the experiences and values that motivated his decision to run for office. Whalen discusses the importance of listening to constituents, expanding working-class representation in Frankfort, and addressing issues such as healthcare affordability, infrastructure, education, and government accountability. He reflects on how policies affecting organized labor, along with recent statewide ballot initiatives that he believes were ignored by lawmakers, inspired him to enter the race. The conversation explores Whalen's priorities, including improving communication between elected officials and residents through regular town halls, supporting term limits for state legislators, and advocating for policies that strengthen Kentucky's workforce. He emphasizes his commitment to representing all constituents, regardless of political affiliation, and approaching problems with a practical, solutions-oriented mindset. The episode concludes with information about voter engagement, upcoming election dates, and ways residents can connect with the campaign and get involved in the democratic process.

Send us Fan Mail Sarah Cole McIntosh is the Democratic candidate for Kentucky State Senate District 36. She joins Brian to make her case for the Senate position in the final days before the midterms.  In this episode, Sarah shares her motivations for running for Kentucky State Senate, discusses the complexities of property tax reform, and explores issues like healthcare, education funding, and housing affordability in Kentucky. Sarah's Republican opponent is an incumbent who has held the Senate seat for 10 years. We're making sure voters have the opportunity to hear directly from the candidates seeking to represent them because informed voters build stronger communities!

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast's 2026 Changemakers Candidate Conversation Series, Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl sit down with Ben Bach, Democratic candidate for Kenton County Commissioner in District 2. A lifelong Kenton County resident, cloud engineer, and community advocate, Ben shares the personal experiences and values that inspired him to enter public service for the first time. The conversation explores some of the most pressing issues facing Southern Kenton County, including the controversial Site Readiness Initiative (SRI), housing affordability, smart growth, infrastructure, and government transparency. Ben discusses the importance of ethical leadership, community engagement, and restoring trust between local government and residents. He also outlines his vision for responsible development that balances economic growth with long-term community needs. Throughout the interview, Ben emphasizes listening to constituents, promoting open dialogue, and ensuring that county government works for the people it serves. If you're interested in the future of Kenton County and the local leaders seeking to shape it, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast's Change Maker Candidate Conversation Series, hosts Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl sit down with Wilann Stangel, Democratic candidate for Kentucky House District 69. A retired educator and library media specialist, Stangle discusses what motivated her to run for office, sharing concerns about the direction of government, the impact of political decisions on everyday Kentuckians, and the importance of restoring responsive leadership. The conversation explores issues affecting Northern Kentucky families, including rising grocery and housing costs, education funding, SNAP benefit reductions, healthcare access, and economic development. Stangle shares her vision for a more connected and accountable state government, emphasizing the need for elected officials who actively engage with their communities and represent the interests of all constituents. The episode also highlights the importance of local elections, voter participation, and civic engagement, with practical information on voting options and upcoming community efforts to encourage voter turnout. Whether you're interested in Kentucky politics, public policy, or learning more about the candidates seeking to represent your community, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

Send us Fan Mail Brant Owens is the Democratic candidate running for Campbell County Commissioner District 3. He joins Brian to make his case for the County Commissioner office in the final weeks before the midterms.  Brant is a lifelong Campbell County resident who currently and a certified financial planner with over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry. From his time on the campaign trail, Brant has determined that most people don't know what a county commissioner does. His goal is to bring more exposure and transparency to the role and ensure that Campbell County residents are well-informed and have a voice in County affairs.  We're making sure voters have the opportunity to hear directly from the candidates seeking to represent them because informed voters build stronger communities.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast's 2026 Changemakers Candidate Conversation Series, Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl sit down with Stephen Hoffman, Democratic candidate for Kenton County Magistrate/Justice of the Peace in District 1. Known by many in Northern Kentucky as "The Love Doctor," Hoffman shares stories from his decades of service officiating more than 20,000 weddings since his appointment in 1989. He explains the unique role of a magistrate in Kenton County, discusses why the position remains partisan under Kentucky law, and reflects on some of the most meaningful moments of his career, from performing bedside weddings for terminally ill patients to officiating Northern Kentucky's first legal same-sex marriage. Hoffman also recounts unexpected experiences involving working with law enforcement, and advocating for families navigating difficult circumstances. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes his commitment to serving all residents regardless of political affiliation, background, or beliefs.

Send us Fan Mail This week Brian argues that Democrats’ midterm efforts are paying off and that the Republican record gives voters a compelling reason to switch. Trump’s low approval, a historically unproductive Congress, damage resulting from Republicans’ signature Big Betrayal Bill, and rampant corruption are forcing Republicans to defend once-safe seats while Democratic candidates surge in the polls. Voters are increasingly focusing on candidates as individuals, regardless of party, looking for true leaders with the skills and character to lead the country out of its current downward spiral.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast's 2026 Changemaker Candidate Conversation Series, Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl sit down with Joshua Baker, Democratic candidate for Kentucky's 24th Senate District. A Campbell County native, Army veteran, and hospitality manager, Baker shares what motivated him to enter politics for the first time and why he believes Northern Kentucky "deserves better." Drawing from his experiences in the hospitality industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, Baker discusses the challenges facing working families and the need for leadership that remains connected and accountable to the communities they serve. The conversation explores key issues affecting residents across the district, including the rising cost of living, healthcare affordability, public education, energy costs, environmental protections, and the growing debate surrounding data centers in Kentucky. Baker outlines his community-first approach to public service, emphasizing accessibility, transparency, and active engagement with local governments and constituents.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast's 2026 Changemaker Candidate Conversation Series, hosts Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl welcome Courtney Hunley, candidate for Erlanger City Council. Hunley shares what motivated him to run for office, describing concerns he observed while attending city council meetings and his belief that Erlanger needs more engaged, proactive leadership focused on solving real community challenges. The conversation explores the issues residents are raising at the doorstep, including affordability, neighborhood investment, government accountability, and growing frustration with the current state of city leadership. Hunley discusses his vision for revitalizing the Dixie Highway corridor, attracting small businesses, creating walkable community spaces, and bringing new energy to local government through collaboration and creative problem-solving. Drawing from his background in public health, manufacturing, supply chain management, and local government service, Hunley explains how practical solutions and community-focused decision-making can help improve quality of life for Erlanger residents. He also emphasizes the importance of local elections, responsive government, and rebuilding trust between city leaders and the people they serve. Whether you're interested in economic development, neighborhood revitalization, or the future of Erlanger, this episode offers an in-depth look at a candidate focused on transparency, innovation, and community-first leadership.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast's 2026 Changemaker Candidate Conversation Series, hosts Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl sit down with Chris Herman, candidate for Erlanger City Council. A lifelong Erlanger resident and one of the youngest candidates seeking office, Chris shares why he decided to run and how he hopes to help shape the future of the city he has called home for nearly two decades. Chris discusses the tremendous potential he sees in Erlanger and the challenges that residents consistently raise while he's out knocking doors across the community. From affordability concerns and rising property tax burdens to a lack of transparency in local government, he outlines why many residents feel disconnected from city leadership and what he would do to change that. The conversation also explores Chris's vision for increasing public engagement, making city government more accessible, supporting small businesses, expanding housing options, and encouraging smart mixed-use development that helps grow Erlanger while preserving its strong sense of community. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, compromise, and local civic involvement as key ingredients for moving the city forward. Whether you're interested in local government, economic development, or the future of Erlanger, this episode offers an inside look at a candidate focused on transparency, community engagement, and practical solutions.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast's 2026 Changemaker Candidate Conversation Series, hosts Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl sit down with Sarah Froelich, candidate for Kenton County Commissioner, District 1. Drawing on nearly eight years of service on the Park Hills City Council, Fralich discusses her decision to run for county office and why she believes voters deserve competitive elections and accountable leadership. A major focus of the conversation is the recent weakening of Kenton County's ethics ordinance. Fralich explains why she believes the changes reduce transparency, eliminate important oversight measures, and weaken protections designed to ensure ethical government. She breaks down what changed, why it matters, and how those decisions affect not only county government but also regional boards and agencies that serve residents throughout Northern Kentucky. The discussion also explores the role of Fiscal Court, county oversight responsibilities, economic development boards, public accountability, and the importance of citizen engagement in local government. Fralich shares her vision for a more transparent and responsive county government that listens to residents and puts public trust first. Whether you're interested in local politics, government accountability, or the future of Kenton County, this episode offers an in-depth look at one of the most important races on the ballot.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast's 2026 Changemaker Candidate Conversation Series, Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl sit down with Laurie Campbell, Democratic candidate for Kentucky House District 7 in Daviess County. A former educator, small business owner, and community advocate, Campbell shares what inspired her to enter public service and why she believes now is the right time to serve. The conversation focuses on the issues Campbell says voters care about most: affordability, rising costs of living, public education funding, childcare, housing, and government accountability. She discusses the ongoing challenges facing Kentucky schools, concerns about declining state support, and why she believes lawmakers should focus less on culture wars and more on the everyday struggles families are facing. Campbell also talks about the importance of representation, transparency in government, and engaging directly with constituents. She reflects on her campaign experience, the impact challengers can have on local democracy, and the growing sense among many Kentuckians that they deserve leaders who listen and respond to their communities.

Send us Fan Mail This week, Natalie and Brian break down the latest national political developments heading into the 2026 midterms, discuss what Kentucky voters need to know about early voting and absentee ballots, and examine a new Kenton County housing study that highlights growing affordability challenges. They also take a look at a local Park Hills zoning dispute that has reached the U.S. Supreme Court and could have broader implications for religious liberty and local land-use laws. Tune in for a quick update on the issues shaping Northern Kentucky and the upcoming election.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast's Changemaker Candidate Conversation Series, Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl sit down with Aaron Curran, candidate for Kentucky House District 65. A lifelong resident of the district and longtime public defender, Curran shares how his experience in the courtroom shaped his belief that government works best when it listens to everyday people instead of focusing on partisan divides. Aaron discusses what he's hearing from voters across the district, from concerns about affordability to frustrations with unresponsive government. He argues that issues like potholes, transportation, traffic congestion, and neighborhood infrastructure may seem small, but they have a direct impact on people's daily lives and their trust in public institutions. The conversation also explores legislative transparency, the committee process in Frankfort, and why many potentially beneficial bills never receive public attention. Curran explains his commitment to helping constituents understand not only what legislation passes, but also what proposals never make it out of committee and why. Throughout the discussion, Aaron emphasizes a practical, community-focused approach to leadership, building coalitions around shared local concerns rather than partisan labels. From traffic challenges and infrastructure investments to government accountability and civic engagement, he shares his vision for representing District 65 by keeping the focus on the people most affected by public policy.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Blue Dot Podcast, hosts Natalie MacDonald and Brian Koehl kick off their 2026 Changemakers Candidate Conversation Series with Melissa Strange, Democratic candidate for Kentucky's 4th Congressional District. Melissa shares the personal motivation behind her campaign, describing her frustration with political division, dysfunction, and a government that many younger Americans have never seen work effectively. She discusses what she's hearing from voters across the district, identifying the rising cost of living as the top concern facing families today, from groceries and healthcare to childcare and housing. The conversation explores Melissa's guiding values of respect, accountability, and independent leadership, along with her support for government reform measures through the Take Back Congress initiative, including congressional term limits, banning stock trading by members of Congress, and increasing ethics and transparency standards. Melissa also discusses the unique opportunity presented by the open congressional seat, emphasizing the importance of responsive representation and maintaining strong connections with local communities. She outlines how voters can engage with her campaign and closes with a call for civic participation and voter turnout ahead of the election. Tune in for an in-depth discussion about leadership, affordability, government accountability, and the future of Kentucky's 4th Congressional District.