Gay Political Strategist: How to Talk Politics At Brunch

If you’ve turned off the news and feel guilty about it, this episode’s for you. In today’s episode, you and I are getting close with Brian Derrick. We discuss the complexities of political engagement, why we’re all politically burnt out, why liberals keep losing, and how to turn politics from a hobby to an actionable lifestyle. Brian Derrick is a political strategist, activist, and Founder and CEO of Oath – a civic tech platform transforming political giving. He has consulted on campaigns from city council to president – most notably for Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Marti Gould Cummings (NYC City Council). Derrick is also a leader in the nonprofit sector. In this episode, we explore:* Why you need to fight with your friends* When it’s okay to stop injesting the news. * Why your state senate donation matters more than your presidential one* How to tell if you’ve turned politics into a hobby* The real reason liberals keep losing.Before You Go* Please subscribe, rate, and review the show!* And share it with someone who you think might enjoy it. That’s the best way you can help us grow!Links!Follow Brian: https://www.instagram.com/brianderrick_Check Out Oath: https://app.oath.vote/Follow Aidan: https://www.instagram.com/aidanwhartonFollow Getting Close: https://www.instagram.com/gettingclosepodFollow on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@gettingclosepodChapters(00:00) Introduction to Political Engagement(02:17) Understanding Political Burnout(06:03) The Role of Data in Politics(10:16) Taking Action Beyond Knowledge(14:10) Navigating News Consumption(19:54) Long-Term Political Planning(24:32) Building Coalitions Through Disagreement(27:23) Navigating Difficult Conversations(30:21) The Importance of Engaging in Disagreements(33:42) Deciding to Win: Taking Action in Politics(37:04) Leveraging Resources for Political Change(41:21) Finding Hope in Local Elections(45:36) Cultivating Positivity in Political Discourse(47:05) The Role of Voting in Civic Duty(49:24) Curiosity and Connection in Community(52:40) Empowerment and Enacting Change This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit gettingclosepod.substack.com/subscribe