Get ready for a lively discussion on politics and pop culture as Susan, Kelly, and Cort welcome guest Candace to the table! The episode kicks off with an engaging conversation about the importance of voting and civic participation, especially as early voting approaches in Texas. The hosts dive into the latest political news, share their excitement about the upcoming ATX festival, and reminisce about their favorite shows, including "The Leftovers" and "Game of Thrones." The main discussion covers American politics-related films, such as The Manchurian Candidate (both versions), The American President, and Dave.

DETAILS

Susan, Kelly, and Cort welcome Candace, a dynamic political figure and former school board member, to share her journey through the political landscape. Their conversation begins with a nostalgic trip down memory lane, recalling their first meeting at the Con of Thrones in 2018. Candace recounts her experiences serving on the school board in Texas and running for Congress in 2020, shedding light on the trials and triumphs of her political aspirations. The discussion seamlessly transitions into current political events, with the news of Jimmy Carter casting his vote for Kamala Harris serving as a catalyst for a deeper conversation about the importance of voting and civic engagement.

As the episode unfolds, the hosts explore the intersection of politics and pop culture, discussing films such as The Manchurian Candidate, The American President, and Dave. The conversation flows effortlessly between political discourse and fandom, showcasing how both elements shape their identities and beliefs. The hosts encourage their listeners to take an active role in the political process, emphasizing that every vote counts and that local elections can significantly impact communities.

The episode culminates in a heartfelt discussion about the realities of running for office in a polarized environment. Candace shares her candid reflections on the emotional challenges she faced during her campaign, highlighting the need for resilience and the power of community support. The hosts engage in a meaningful dialogue about the broader implications of political participation and the importance of fostering hope and positivity in the face of adversity. This episode is a blend of laughter, personal stories, and a call to action, inspiring listeners to become informed and engaged citizens while reminding them that their voices matter in shaping the future.

Takeaways:

• The importance of grassroots political involvement cannot be overstated, especially in local elections.

• Diversity in media representation is essential, as it reflects our society's complexities and stories.

• Voting early and in person can significantly impact election outcomes, making every vote count.

• Understanding the political landscape requires awareness of misinformation and how it spreads online.

• Political engagement should go beyond just presidential elections and include local school boards.

• Candace shared her personal experiences running for office, highlighting the challenges faced by candidates.

• Susan and Cort discuss “From”

Chapters:

• 00:10 - Welcome to Geek Girl Soup

• 00:14 - Introducing Candace: The Political Geek

• 02:10 - Good News in Politics!

• 03:05 - Exciting Updates from The Leftovers

• 18:33 - Diving into The Manchurian Candidate

• 36:10 - Candace's Campaign Experience

• 42:17 - The Power of Local Elections

• 07:29 - Wrapping Up with Recommendations

• 01:07:33 - Outro: Make America Hope Again

• 01:08:00 - Susan and Cort discuss From