In this episode, Shannon Watts joins PUSH The Next Generation host, Ashley Jackson, for a post-election conversation on Gen Z’s unique position to reshape the political landscape through grassroots activism. As the founder of Moms Demand Action – the largest grassroots group fighting gun violence in the United States – Shannon reflects on the power of coalition-building to drive legislative change. Embracing her political calling to mobilize white women, Shannon recounts hosting “White Women: Answer the Call” – a record-breaking Zoom event inspired by Win With Black Women that raised over $11 million for Kamala Harris’ campaign. In response to the election results, Shannon underscores the importance of celebrating wins and embracing setbacks as opportunities to “lose forward,” highlighting how incrementalism can spark revolutions.

Together, she and Ashley confront the dual threats of misinformation and disengagement, while exploring the importance of allyship and accountability in activism. Drawing from exit polls and campaign analysis, Shannon dissects former President Trump’s appeal to young men and the widening gap between college-educated and non-educated women at the polls. She speaks to the role of spiritual grounding and righteous anger, stressing the value of holding space for grief and cautioning against rushing to conclusions without the full picture. For Shannon, storytelling is essential to activism – personal narratives not only shape public opinion but serve as catalysts for policy shifts and community mobilization. True to her “firestarter” spirit, Shannon calls for more women to run for office, reminding listeners that there is no “right time” to step into leadership. Her message to Gen Z and Gen Alpha is clear – stay engaged, keep showing up, and remember, “if you’re not at the table, you may be on the menu.”

Don’t miss this special episode of PUSH The Next Generation—tune in today!

Pre-order Shannon Watts's book, Fired Up: How to Turn Your Spark into a Flame at Any Age.

Produced by MurMur Impact.

YouTube/Instagram/TikTok/Facebook: @pushthenextgenerationpod

In this episode, Raven Schwam-Curtis joins PUSH The Next Generation host, Ashley Jackson, to explore the evolving role of content creators in politics and media. As members of the first DNC Creator class, they discuss how Gen Z is reshaping traditional institutions and practices, with Raven highlighting the generation's power in driving political accountability. Raven also reframes voting as a strategic tool for change rather than an endorsement of the status quo and shares her personal journey of balancing activism with self-care and hope in these turbulent times.

Raven and Ashley also explore the necessity of centering “collective liberation” as a guiding framework for advancing equity and justice in the fight against systemic oppression. Drawing from her experience as a Black and Jewish content creator, Raven offers compelling insights into the intersectional communities she represents. She challenges divisive narratives and addresses the ongoing threats of anti-Blackness and antisemitism, urging listeners to understand our current political moment, reflect on shared histories, and build a united path forward.

Don’t miss this special episode of PUSH The Next Generation—tune in today!

Produced by MurMur Impact.

YouTube/Instagram/TikTok/Facebook: @pushthenextgenerationpod

In this episode, Rabbi Sharon Brous and PUSH The Next Generation host, Ashley Jackson, engage in a profound conversation about fostering connection in an era of unprecedented isolation. Drawing on her experience as a religious leader, Rabbi Brous shares insights on cultivating moral imagination in the face of adversity. Together, they explore critical issues—from Middle Eastern conflicts to racial justice struggles—highlighting their ties to broader human rights concerns. Rabbi Brous brings to the forefront the rich diversity of the Jewish experience, challenging monolithic representations of Jewish identity. Amid today's polarized political climate, they confront the troubling rise of antisemitism and its threat to democracy.

Grounded in her faith tradition, Rabbi Brous offers Generation Z practical guidance for principled dissent in defense of human dignity. Through her concept of "The Amen Effect," she examines how communities can bridge divides and challenge selective empathy. Rabbi Brous amplifies a vision of faith collectives building a more just and compassionate world through meaningful civic engagement and interfaith dialogue.

Don’t miss this special episode of PUSH The Next Generation—tune in today!
Check out Rabbi Sharon Brous’s book, The Amen Effect: Ancient Wisdom to Mend Our Broken Hearts and World.

Produced by MurMur Impact.

YouTube/Instagram/TikTok/Facebook: @pushthenextgenerationpod