Welcome to our new podcast, The Ask, where we focus on turning questions into action. On our first episode, Jasmine and Yochi sit down with TikTok superstar V Spehar, a former caterer whose news-focused posts reach nearly 3 million people, about why huge numbers of young Americans are turning to TikTok for their news, why conservatives trust a self-described "purple haired lesbian" more than the mainstream media, and why progressives should do everything they can to prevent the government from banning TikTok.

Every time abortion has been on a state referendum anywhere, it's won. And for the upcoming 2024 election, Democrats have made it clear that they are running on abortion again. The question is – is abortion still a winner this fall or is it losing its political force? On this episode, Jasmine Burton sits down with Katie Paris, the founder of Red, Wine, and Blue, to discuss the state of abortion, its impact on the upcoming election, and how to get people to successfully organize around issues they care about.

From starting the latest fashion trends to becoming the newest memes, it is undeniable that NBA players have an insurmountable impact on today's culture. This influence extends far beyond the court because in addition to being influencers, NBA players are also advocates. On this episode, Jasmine Burton and Jeremy Paris chat with James Cadogan, the executive director of the NBA Social Justice Coalition, to discuss the power of athletes, their influence on social justice reform, and how leagues, coaches, and players can work together to make large-scale change.

The internet has changed every aspect of our lives - from how we shop, to how we work, and even how we get our news. With more people turning to social media for information, independent journalism has opened up a new avenue for anyone and everyone to become a news source. On our newest episode, Jasmine and Elliot sit down with Judd Legum, founder of “Popular Information” and “ThinkProgress,” to discuss how traditional news has changed, the implications of this on our democracy, and how traditional and non-traditional journalism can step into the line of defense.

Whatever your preconceived ideas are of a mayor, they usually all lead back to that person being the “guardian of the city.” Rarely do we think of mayors having access to a national network designed to work together to solve issues that occur in everyone’s cities - but in fact, they’re the ones on the frontlines doing that important work. On our newest episode, Jeremy and Jasmine sit down with Nan Whaley, former mayor of Dayton, Ohio, and current director of membership for the U.S. Conference of Mayors, to discuss the power of the mayors and the essential role they play in local and national politics.

The Supreme Court’s 2010 decision in Citizens United changed the political landscape by solidifying a campaign system that requires candidates to fundraise tens of millions of dollars from major donors to survive an election season. Though money is one of the most powerful resources in a campaign, people ultimately hold the power. Tiffany Muller, founder and president of End Citizens United, talks with host Jeremy Paris about the American voters and their ability to create and leverage power during one of the most pivotal moments in the history of our democracy.

Philanthropic funding can often lead to some of the most impactful ventures of today’s society - like John Rockefeller creating the NAACP’s Legal Defense Fund which has greatly improved the lives of so many Americans. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. On our episode this week, Daniel Forkkio, the CEO of Represent Justice, and Gara LaMarche, former President and CEO of Atlantic Philanthropies, sit down with Jasmine Burton to discuss the changing landscape of philanthropy, it’s impact on social justice, and how more philanthropic organizations can spark real change.

Viewed as the voice of the future, people aged 18-25 can make or break an election. And although young people have shown up to the polls in record numbers the past few elections, it remains to be seen whether they will continue to show up for polls, especially during an election year that feels like major deja vu with the presidential candidates. On our newest episode, Jasmine and guest host Brad Bauman sit down with Robyn Swirling, the chief of staff for Alliance for Youth Action, to discuss what issues young people care about, the impact of their vote, and the likelihood that they will show up to the polls for this upcoming election.

TikTok has been downloaded 4.7 billion times worldwide and over 220 million times in the US alone. But despite its popularity, the US recently enacted a law that gives TikTok 270 days to sell or it will be prohibited in the US. On our most recent episode, Jasmine and Morgan sit down with Elizabeth Booker Houston - a government lawyer by day and massively popular TikTok influencer by night whose videos range from clips of her stand-up comedy routines to interviews with political stars like Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro. Tune in to hear us discuss the misinformation surrounding the law, whether or not TikTok will actually sell, and the implications if it does.

The Republican National Convention just wrapped up in Milwaukee, and our panel of Raben insiders, Jasmine Burton, Elliot Williams, and Jeremy Paris, are here to unpack what they saw. Who was the convention for? How did it land? Who is even going to be running against each other in November? Has Donald Trump finished giving his speech yet? Politics comes at you fast, so take a quick moment to find out where we are and where we go from here with The Ask.

Day one at the DNC kicked off with exciting energy, surprising moments, and bold speeches that set the stage for what's to come. In this episode, Jeremy Paris, Jasmine Burton, and Elliot Williams break down the highlights, the lowlights, and everything in between—plus, what you need to know to stay ahead of the curve for the next few days of the DNC. Grab your popcorn, because this DNC is shaping up to be one for the history books!

The attacks that seek to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are only demonstrating one thing - we are winning. One of Raben’s Managing Principals, Whitney Tome sits down with Karen Finney - CNN Political Analyst, Political Strategist, and the Co-founder of Rise United - to discuss reframing the narrative on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Given her sophisticated understanding of communications and trends, Karen discusses how a shift to an abundance mindset, leveraging the insights of the youth, and applying constant pressure will continue to transform our society. Join us for a conversation about how to change societal culture to continue to advance equality.

These past two election cycles have really put the LGBTQ+ community in the spotlight. And in this episode we're diving into why having LGBTQ individuals in elected positions isn't just important—it's essential. Because let's face it, when it comes to democracy, diversity isn't just a nice-to-have; it's the secret ingredient. Tune in for a conversation about the importance and necessity of centering the voices of LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as the critical role that these individuals play in our society with Sean Meloy and Mayor Annise Parker from the Victory Fund, the only national organization devoted to electing pro-equality, pro-choice LGBTQ+ leaders to public office at every level. 

The attacks on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are telling us something - we are winning! The opposition's efforts to dismantle DEI only highlight its impact and its affirmation of every person's humanity. Join us for a special episode of The Ask, where we dive into conversations about these attacks, their implications, and the opportunities they present. Whitney Tome, Managing Director at Raben, is in conversation with Dr. Sesha Joi Moon - Former Chief Diversity Officer for the U.S. House of Representatives for the 117th and 118th Congresses, Chief Strategist for Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett and DEI Executive-in-Residence with the American Pride Rises Network - to discuss dissolution the DEI Office in the U.S. House, the current political landscape, and what is possible going forward. 

Emmett Till’s story is a harrowing part of American history. And although his tragic story shook the nation, his legacy continues to resonate, reminding us of the deep injustices that have shaped our past as a society, while also inspiring the ongoing efforts to combat racism and promote equality today. In this episode, Elliot Williams and Jasmine Burton sit down with Chris Benson, President of the Emmett Till Institute, to discuss how we can educate young people on the tragedy of Emmett Till’s murder, his place in U.S. history, and how the lessons learned from his tragedy can prevent instances of injustice in the future.

In this episode, we’re tackling a question that’s as old as time: How do you stand up to injustice without burning out or getting stuck in the cycle of systemic inequality? Because let’s face it: the status quo isn’t going to change itself, and neither are we. Listen in to hear Jasmine Burton sit down with Rashad Robinson, President of Color of Change - an organization that’s leading the charge of fighting back against racial injustice, inequality, and unfairness - to discuss how we can hold companies accountable, tactics we can use to make an impact, and how we can all work together to create systemic change.

Policy, policy, policy. We hear all the time from politicians and non-profits about how they plan to influence or change policy. But what does that really mean? And how can it impact your life? In this episode, Jasmine Burton sat down with Michael McAfee and Ashleigh Gardere, Vice President and President of PolicyLink, a national research and action institution working to build a future where everyone can prosper, to talk about policy change: the fine art of convincing the world to stop doing things the hard way.

This 2024 election season has been very exciting and in this episode, we're spotlighting the powerhouses of the ballot box—Black women. They've been called the backbone of elections, but let's be real: they’re not just holding it up, they’re running the show.  Tune in to hear Jasmine Burton sit down with Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation - an organization that seeks to advance the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public - to discuss how Black women aren't just participating in democracy; they're redefining it.

Kamala Harris debated Donald Trump and we're here to give you the debrief you didn't know you needed! In this episode, Jasmine Burton and Elliot Williams sit down with Garrison Hayes, 2024 Webby Award-Winner for Best Creator, to discuss key moments, unexpected mic-drops, and the impact this election will have on voters. Don't worry if you didn't get a chance to watch because if you missed the fireworks, we’ve got the spark notes.

Food isn't just about flavor; it's a universal language that bridges cultures and acts as medicine. From your grandma’s chicken soup that cures the common cold to the spices that warm your soul, we can all attest that food heals. On this episode, Jasmine Burton sits down with Chef Tanya Holland — celebrity chef, restaurateur, podcast host, writer, and cookbook author — to discuss the delicious ways food connects us all and nurtures our well-being. So grab a seat at our virtual table and tune in because you're in for a treat!

Since 1979, Prosperity Now has been a persistent voice championing economic opportunity, innovating outside and beyond existing systems to build power for all communities. In this episode, Jasmine Burton had the pleasure of sitting down with Marisa Calderon, president and CEO of Prosperity Now, to discuss how they advance economic equity, the importance of investing in bold new ideas, and the impact that works on the local and grassroots level can have on the entire financial ecosystem.

You asked the questions and we answered! On this special "Ask Me Anything" episode, Jasmine Burton, Elliot Williams, and Jeremy Paris sit down to tackle the most pressing questions on everyone’s minds. Whether you’re curious about the upcoming election, the state of democracy, or critical policy issues that affect our lives, this is your chance to get answers!

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and in this episode, we’re shining a light on the critical importance of protecting survivors. Tune in to hear Jasmine Burton and Patty First sit down with Mara Elliot, the first woman and first Latina elected as San Diego City Attorney, about safeguarding protections for survivors of domestic violence, how recent changes in the law have provided greater support for survivors, and the gaps that still exist. 

In this special day-after-the-election episode, Jasmine Burton and Robert Raben dive into the historic results of the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election. Join us as we break down what Trump's victory means for our country, the political landscape, and the immediate impact of this new leadership on domestic and global affairs. 

A new administration is set to begin in January, and many Americans are grappling with uncertainty about the potential implications this may have on their healthcare, gender-affirming care, and reproductive rights. On this episode, Jasmine Burton sit downs with Kellan Baker, Executive Director of the Whitman-Walker Institute, to explore the critical role of healthcare research in shaping the future of modern medicine, how medical advancements have evolved to better serve underserved communities, the importance of continually fighting for medical freedom, and what steps we, as Americans, can take to ensure that healthcare remains accessible, inclusive, and just for all.

The arts serve as both an escape from and a reflection of our reality. And since its inception in 2001, the Houses on The Moon Theater company has focused on creating productions that shed light on and elevate the stories of these harsh realities of marginalized communities. In this powerful episode of The Ask, Jasmine Burton sits down with Jeffrey Solomon and Kim Baker Medina to discuss their most recent production De Novo, which tells the true story of a 14-year-old boy fleeing gang violence in Guatemala, and his fight to stay in the U.S. Tune in to hear us delve into the importance of telling stories that challenge the status quo, and how plays and podcasts can amplify voices of those whose experiences might otherwise go unheard.

On November 5, Americans elected Donald Trump for a second term, setting the stage for a highly contentious and uncertain political landscape. As Trump prepares for inauguration on January 20, 2025, Americans are grappling with questions about what a second Trump administration will look like. Will the president-elect follow through on his most controversial promises? And how will the nation, from lawmakers to ordinary citizens, react as the country braces for another chapter in Trump's legacy? Tune in to hear Jasmine Burton speak with Raben’s very own Sarah Bolton and Eduardo Soto as they discuss the promises of sweeping Day 1 actions, the legal challenges surrounding his plans, and the strategic responses Americans are considering. 

Donald Trump was sworn into office for a second term, marking the beginning of a new, or seemingly familiar chapter in American politics. Raben’s own Jasmine Burton sits down with political strategists Whitney Tome and Karen Driscoll to delve into two key perspectives: the "dream" that could have been—an alternative vision for the future that never fully materialized after Kamala lost—and the "reality" we now face with Trump back at the helm.

Bitcoin is the digital currency many use across the globe, allowing anyone with internet access to make financial transactions without banks, financial firms or the government. But despite its rapid growth, Bitcoin adoption is still far from universal, especially in marginalized communities that could benefit the most from financial autonomy and inclusion. But what’s standing in the way? Is it a lack of education, infrastructure, or trust? On this episode, Jasmine Burton sits down with Dawdu Amantanah, Founder and Host of "The Bitcoin Source," to dissect these challenges and share actionable strategies to bridge the gap.

Since the start of the second Trump administration, every day seems to bring a new act of unprecedented overreach by Donald Trump. These actions have a huge impact on our daily lives, causing many Americans to wonder: Can he really do all of this? And if he can't, where are the checks and balances? In this week's episode, Jasmine Burton sits down with two Raben Principals, Candyce Phoenix and Jeremy Paris, who are experts in the science (and art) of oversight, to discuss how to leverage storytelling to meet challenges, make change, and how you can prepare, stay informed, and protect your rights in an environment where oversight can sometimes feel like a looming threat.

In these times when civil rights organizations are under pressure, coalition-building isn't just important—it's essential. But let's be real: organizing and mobilizing sounds much easier in theory than it is in practice. This week, Jasmine Burton chats with Stacy Burdett, a public policy strategist, about the power of unity, the art of collaboration, and why giving up is not an option.

Trump may not have been in office long, but with the number of protections he's stripped from the LGBTQ community, veterans, and everyday Americans, it feels like he's been at it for a lifetime. And the consequences of these policies? Potentially catastrophic. On this week's episode, Jasmine Burton and Shawn Gaylord sit down with Rep. Mark Takano to discuss what’s at stake for our rights and freedoms moving forward and what his office is doing to fight back.