Episode 17 – Jane Cramer
Summary
In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, Zeke interviews Jane Cramer, a mental health deputy administrator and social justice advocate from Bucks County, Pennsylvania. They discuss the rise of conservative influence in local education, the importance of community activism, and the power of humor in advocacy. Jane shares her experiences in flipping the school board and offers advice for those facing similar challenges. The conversation highlights the significance of grassroots movements and the hope that comes from community connections.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Jane Cramer
02:21 The Rise of Mom’s For Liberty
05:45 What the Buck?
08:27 The Birth of Cringey
13:43 Make Me Cringe
15:55 Doing The Work
19:21 Strength
20:56 Why Are You A Democrat?
23:34 Advice for Activists
24:52 Hope and Resilience in Activism
26:25 Future Plans
Cringey The Ram on TikTok: @cringefql5dx
Cringey LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/cringeytheram
Short Clips Can Be Found On TikTok: @drzeketayler/@thezekelypodcast and Instagram: @thezekelypodcast
Episode 16 – Vincent Hughes
Summary
In this episode of The Zekely Podcast, host Zeke engages with Senator Vincent Hughes, a long-serving member of the Pennsylvania State Senate. They discuss a range of topics including the importance of relationships, the challenges of modern politics, mental health advocacy, and legislative efforts in education and healthcare. Senator Hughes shares insights from his extensive experience in politics, highlights the significance of community engagement, and emphasizes the need for voter participation. The conversation also touches on local businesses and initiatives aimed at reducing violence in communities, showcasing the senator’s commitment to improving the lives of Pennsylvanians.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Senator Vincent Hughes
03:12 Star of Stage and Screen
05:08 Reflections on Legislative Experience
09:20 Thinking of Hughes
11:03 Standing Up For Pennsylvanians
14:49 Something About Hughes
15:37 Political Engagement
20:58 Eagles Trivia
24:17 Breaking the Silence: Mental Health Advocacy
29:34 Small Business Spotlight
32:01 Decreasing Violence
36:02 Constitu-What?
39:32 Why Are You A Democrat?
40:37 What Gives You Hope?
45:20 Future Plans
Sid Bookers: https://sid-bookers-shrimp.foodjoyy.com/
Constituent Services: https://www.senatorhughes.com/services/
Short Clips Can Be Found On TikTok: @drzeketayler/@thezekelypodcast and Instagram: @thezekelypodcast
Episode 15 – Lower Merion School Board Candidates
Summary
In this episode of the Zekely podcast, host Zeke engages with four candidates running for the Lower Merion School Board. The conversation explores their motivations for running, the challenges they face, and their visions for the future of education in their community. The candidates share personal stories, discuss the importance of civic engagement, and highlight the need for responsible budgeting in schools. The episode also features lighthearted games and trivia, showcasing the candidates’ personalities and camaraderie. In this engaging conversation, the participants discuss their roles and responsibilities as school board candidates, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing student well-being, community engagement, and upholding educational policies. They explore the significance of diverse literature in education, the challenges of protecting IEP funding, and the need for effective communication with families regarding bullying and discrimination. The discussion also highlights personal experiences with public education and the hope that drives their commitment to serving the community.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Candidates
01:43 TV Binge
02:51 Civic Duty
06:40 Name That Tune
08:25 Incumbency
10:13 Gen Z Lingo
13:29 Anna Shurak
14:30 Bullying
19:06 Lower Merion Trivia
20:17 Kerry Halpern
23:03 Budget
29:55 Name That Movie
31:53 Running First
35:08 Jennifer Rivera
36:09 Book Banning
39:50 Juanita Kerber
41:47 Read For The Class
44:54 School Options
47:42 Am I Lying?
49:48 IEP
53:54 Hope
57:10 Future Plans
Learn More About the Candidates: www.electlmsd.com
Donate to the Democratically endorsed Lower Merion School Board candidates: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/2025electlmsd
Short Clips Can Be Found On TikTok: @drzeketayler/@thezekelypodcast and Instagram: @thezekelypodcast
Episode 14 – Brandon Neuman
In this episode of the Zekely podcast, host Zeke interviews Judge Brandon Neuman, who is running for the Pennsylvania Superior Court. They discuss Judge Neuman’s background, his experience as a trial judge, and the importance of judicial races.
Episode 13 – Amanda Cappelletti
Summary
In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, host Zeke interviews Senator Amanda Cappelletti, who made history as the first Pennsylvania State Senator to give birth while in office. They discuss her journey in politics, the importance of public speaking, and the various legislative committees she has been a part of. The conversation also touches on her personal experiences, including her childhood, her role as a mother, and her commitment to reproductive healthcare and environmental legislation. Amanda shares insights into her work with constituents and the services available to them, as well as her hopes for the future and the importance of fighting for progressive values in Pennsylvania.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Senator Amanda Cappelletti
01:35 Capp/No Capp
06:09 Breaking Barriers: Motherhood in Politics
07:27 Public Speaking: A Natural Talent
08:38 Fun with Governor Shapiro Trivia
10:00 Name That Committee
13:21 Accident
15:34 Constituent Services and Unclaimed Property
19:42 Engaging with Trashy TV Shows
22:24 Political Identity and Values
24:09 Legislative Aspirations and Goals
26:09 Hope and Future Perspectives
Unclaimed Property: https://www.patreasury.gov/unclaimed-property/
Constituent Services for 17th District: https://pasenatorcappelletti.com/services/
Short Clips Can Be Found On TikTok: @drzeketayler/@thezekelypodcast and Instagram: @thezekelypodcast
Episode 12 – Arvind Venkat
Summary
In this episode of the Zekely podcast, host Zeke interviews Arvind Venkat, a Democratic state representative from Pennsylvania. They discuss Venkat’s journey into politics, his commitment to healthcare as a right, and the importance of representation for diverse communities. Venkat shares insights on balancing his dual career as a physician and legislator, highlights local businesses, and expresses hope for the future of Pennsylvania politics. The conversation emphasizes the significance of community engagement and the role of elected officials in advocating for their constituents.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Arvind Venkat
01:46 TV Show
03:31 The Trifecta
07:50 Driving
09:23 Decision to Run
12:28 Name That Committee
16:31 Constitu-What?
19:10 Why Are You A Democrat?
21:12 Small Business Spotlight
22:50 Breaking Barriers
24:27 Favorite Holiday
26:04 Juggling Dual Roles: Physician and Legislator
27:32 Hope and Resilience in Politics
28:52 The Future
Constituent Services: https://www.pahouse.com/venkat/Help-Services/Constituent-Services/
Soergel Orchards: https://www.soergels.com/
Full Video Episode Available On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheZekelyPodcast
Short Clips Can Be Found On TikTok: @drzeketayler/@thezekelypodcast and Instagram: @thezekelypodcast
Episode 11 – Rebecca Starr
Summary
In this episode of the Zekely podcast, host Zeke interviews Rebecca Starr, a lawyer and community advocate running for mayor of Narberth, Pennsylvania. They discuss her motivations for running, her vision for the community, and the responsibilities of a mayor. Rebecca shares her thoughts on community engagement, the importance of local businesses, and her commitment to inclusivity and public safety. The conversation also touches on her personal experiences and the political landscape in Pennsylvania, emphasizing the need for better communication and involvement in local governance.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rebecca Starr
01:32 Superpowers
02:46 Running for Mayor
04:13 Now and Then
05:40 The Role of a Mayor
08:51 Mayor Foul: A Game of Ethics
10:50 Spotlighting Local Businesses
11:26 House Special
13:15 Municipal Structures: Why Some Areas Lack Mayors
15:03 Political Identity and Party Affiliation
17:01 Vision for Community Improvement
19:49 Childhood Memories and Safety Violations
22:33 Hope and Plans
24:26 Family Support and Campaigning
https://www.starrformayor.com/
Salon Rosa M: https://thesalonrosam.com/
Short Clips Can Be Found On TikTok: @drzeketayler/@thezekelypodcast and Instagram: @thezekelypodcast
Episode 10 – Dan Goughnour
Summary
In this episode of the Zekely Podcast, host Zeke interviews Dan Goughnour, a detective and school board member running for a State House seat in Pennsylvania. They discuss Dan’s motivations for running, his experiences as a parent, his coaching philosophy, and the importance of community engagement. The conversation also touches on the role of Unions, the challenges of law enforcement, and the significance of voting in local elections. Dan shares personal anecdotes and insights into his life, emphasizing the need for hope and action in the community.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dan Goughnour
01:23 Gibberish Game
04:05 Running for State House
04:58 Paying Respects
05:47 Pirates Trivia
08:03 Parenting Challenges
08:45 Why Are You A Democrat?
09:44 Coaching Youth Sports
10:53 Get Coachy With Me
12:35 Goals as a State Representative
12:59 McKeesport Trivia
14:40 Union Representation and Support
15:44 Understanding Misconceptions
17:34 The Weight of Responsibility in Leadership
18:46 Atelephobia
20:37 Setting the Tone in Policing
21:49 Addressing Mistrust in Law Enforcement
23:42 Two Truths and a Lie
24:42 Experiences on the School Board
25:54 Reflections on School Days
28:26 Finding Hope in Community Initiatives
29:12 Plans for the Future
Dan Goughnour Campaign Website: https://danforstaterep.com/
Short Clips Can Be Found On TikTok: @drzeketayler/@thezekelypodcast and Instagram: @thezekelypodcast