Michael Brodkorb

A Break Down with GOP U.S. Senate Candidate Adam Schwarze

On this special episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, with Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr, co-host Becky Scherr announces her maternity leave for the upcoming weeks.

The episode’s highlight is an in-depth interview with Adam Schwarze, one of the Republicans running for the U.S. Senate seat soon to be vacated by Tina Smith. Schwarze discusses his impressive military background, his motivations for running, and his strategies for a successful campaign. 

The episode also covers Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s recent State of the State address, the results of the Senate District 6 primary election, and the ongoing internal conflicts within the Republican Party of Minnesota, particularly involving Action for Liberty. 

Becky and Michael provide their usual insightful commentary on these crucial topics.

• 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
• 01:05 Becky’s Maternity Leave Announcement
• 06:02 Interview with Adam Schwarze: Background and Military Service
• 12:08 Adam Schwarze on Political Motivation and Leadership
• 16:41 Campaign Strategy and Key Issues
• 25:36 Economic Policies and Future Plans
• 29:28 Campaign Trail and Closing Remarks
• 30:45 Reflecting on the Interview with Adam Schwarze
• 31:09 Impressions of Adam Schwarze’s Campaign
• 34:59 Governor Wallace’s State of the State Address
• 43:29 Special Election in Senate District Six
• 46:50 Action for Liberty and Republican Infighting
• 01:03:49 Becky’s Farewell and Final Thoughts

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week!

We Break Down the Klein Brothers Case with Journalist Maddie Roth

In this gripping episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr present a unique and emotionally charged conversation with journalist Maddie Roth. 

Maddie discusses her compelling investigation into the mysterious disappearance of the Klein brothers from a North Minneapolis park in 1951, a case that remains unsolved. 

Michael, the author of a book on a similar case, brings a unique perspective and a profound connection to Maddie’s experience and the heartbreaking circumstances surrounding her incredible work on this story.

The episode also delves into the ethics controversy surrounding Senate President Bobby Joe Champion and the conflict of interest allegations tied to his legal work and legislative actions. 

Join us for an insightful episode full of investigative journalism, emotional storytelling, and engaging discussion on ethics in politics.

• 00:00 Introduction to The Breakdown Podcast
• 00:18 Special Episode Overview
• 01:12 Interview with Journalist Maddie Roth
• 03:23 Maddie’s Background and Interest in True Crime
• 09:25 The Klein Brothers’ Disappearance
• 16:43 Investigative Challenges and Family Impact
• 34:27 Theories and Ongoing Investigation
• 43:56 Call to Action and Closing Thoughts
• 45:01 Revisiting the Klein’s Stories
• 46:07 Maddie’s Commitment to Missing Persons Cases
• 47:00 Personal Motivations and Stories
• 48:19 Remembering the Klein Brothers
• 49:01 The Importance of Telling These Stories
• 51:04 Support for Independent Journalism
• 51:37 Podcast Host’s Promises and Gratitude
• 54:40 Becky’s Pregnancy Update
• 58:16 Legislative Drama and Ethics
• 01:01:44 Senator Champion’s Controversy
• 01:09:25 Ethics Committee and Legislative Transparency
• 01:24:52 Closing Remarks 

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week!

A Break Down on Wisconsin, SD 6, and the MN U.S. Senate Race

In this feisty new episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,’ join Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr as they analyze recent political events, including the Wisconsin election results and the upcoming special election in Senate District 6 for Justin Eichorn’s replacement. 

Special guests Will Davis and Preya Samsundar share their insights on the Democrats’ and Republicans’ strategies, voter turnout, and fundraising dynamics. 

The episode also delves into Attorney General Keith Ellison’s early endorsement of Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan and the controversy surrounding Royce White’s campaign finances. Get a detailed look at the current political landscape and future predictions for Minnesota’s 2026 Senate race. Tune in for an insightful discussion on politics, policy, and current affairs.

• 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
• 01:00 Wisconsin Election Analysis
• 04:10 Impact of Elon Musk and Trump on Elections
• 20:25 Special Election in Senate District 6
• 29:16 A break down of the candidates
• 31:35 Keith Ellison Endorses Peggy Flanagan
• 32:36 Early Endorsements and Progressive Lanes
• 38:22 Royce White’s Campaign Finance Controversy
• 45:47 Republican Party’s Internal Struggles
• 53:40 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week!

A Break Down About Signalgate with Bryan Strawser

In this episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,’ hosts Becky Scherr and Michael Brodkorb delve into the astonishing story of Signalgate. 

Joined by crisis management expert Bryan Strawser, Principal and CEO of Bryghtpath, they explore the recent security debacle involving senior U.S. officials accidentally sharing sensitive military information on the Signal app. 

With revelations from The Atlantic’s Jeffrey Goldberg and various political responses, this episode provides a comprehensive breakdown of the incident, its implications, and its ethical considerations. 

Please tune in to understand how this modern-day SNL skit turned into a serious national security issue and what it means for future government communications.

• 00:00 Introduction to the podcast
• 00:22 Special Guest: Bryan Strawser
• 01:03 Programming Note: New Streaming Schedule
• 01:45 Signal Gate: The Unfolding Chaos
• 03:45 Understanding Signal: A Secure Messaging App
• 10:05 The Atlantic Article: A Shocking Revelation
• 12:16 Casual Conversations with Serious Consequences
• 23:09 The Fallout: Responses and Reactions
• 26:34 The Art of Apologies
• 27:12 Operational Information and Security Breaches
• 27:27 The Goldberg Article and Its Fallout
• 28:22 Casual Conversations and Policy Discussions
• 29:11 Potential Consequences of Information Leaks
• 32:10 Espionage Act and Legal Implications
• 36:56 Journalistic Integrity and Responsibility
• 40:11 Signal App and Presidential Records Act
• 42:51 Final Thoughts and Accountability

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week!

A Break Down on Drunk Driving Reform with Rep. Larry Kraft

In this critical new episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,’ hosts Becky Scherr and Michael Brodkorb welcome first-time guest Minnesota State Representative Larry Kraft’s legislation to reform Minnesota’s DWI laws in response to the deadly crash at Park Tavern in St. Louis Park.

Specifically, the legislation proposed by Representative Kraft and a bipartisan group of legislators will require offenders with multiple offenses to be on ignition interlock, double the lookback period for offenses, and remove obstacles for offenders to get on interlock.

The conversation transitions to the shocking case of Minnesota State Senator Justin Eichorn’s arrest for soliciting a minor. They examine the swift actions the Minnesota Senate GOP took, the responses from other political leaders, and the legal implications surrounding the case—a detailed and emotional exploration of how these events impact politics, policy, and public trust. 

Join us for an eye-opening episode on the complexities and necessities of legislative actions in response to societal issues.

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome to Rep. Larry Kraft
• 01:15 Tragic Incident at Park Tavern
• 03:27 Legislation and Ignition Interlock
• 06:24 Personal Stories and Legislative Support
• 13:38 Bipartisan Efforts and Future Steps
• 20:18 Technical Difficulties and Interview Recap
• 27:59 Disturbing Case of Senator Justin Eichhorn
• 34:20 Immediate Reactions from the Senate GOP
• 35:29 House Leadership and GOP Chair Statements
• 36:24 Historical Context and Legislative Responses
• 39:06 DFL’s Response and Comparisons
• 45:42 Senate GOP’s Call for Expulsion
• 46:27 Senator Eichorn’s Resignation
• 59:16 Legal Proceedings and Restrictions
• 01:01:36 Acknowledging Law Enforcement Efforts
• 01:03:25 Special Election and Legislative Session
• 01:04:04 Closing Remarks and Podcast Sign-Off

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week!

A Break Down with David Hann on a Possible Run for Governor

On this new episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr interview former Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman and State Senator David Hann. 

Hann, who is considering a run for governor in 2026, shares his perspective on the importance of focusing on the gubernatorial race amid the buzz surrounding the U.S. Senate race. 

Hann discusses his political career, the current political climate challenges, the need for Republican unity, and practical solutions for Minnesota’s key issues, such as education, public safety, and economic growth. 

Join the conversation as Hann outlines the path forward for Republicans and the need for strong candidates in the upcoming election.

• 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
• 01:24 Interview with former Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman David Hann
• 08:32 Discussion on Republican Strategy and Challenges
• 12:27 Reflections on the Endorsement Process
• 27:11 Closing Remarks and Personal Updates
• 35:58 Final Thoughts and Farewell

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode soon!

A Break Down About Trump’s Big Speech: The Good, Bad & Ugly

Welcome to another spicy episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky! Join Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr as they talk with guests John Rouleau and Julius Hernandez to dissect President Trump’s recent Joint Address to Congress.

The discussion covers various topics, from the President’s accomplishments and requests to Congress to the reactions and controversies surrounding his speech.

Tune in as the panel engages in a heated debate on policies, immigration, and the cultural wars, providing insights from both sides of the political spectrum.

This episode is a must-listen if you’re interested in a comprehensive analysis of current political affairs!

• 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
• 00:20 Special Guests: John Rouleau and Julius Hernandez
• 00:42 Analyzing Trump’s Joint Address to Congress
• 02:44 Minnesota Delegation’s Guests
• 04:00 Political Statements and Reactions
• 08:59 Democratic Disruptions and Reactions
• 34:42 Trump’s Accomplishments and Policy Highlights
• 40:56 Fiscal Responsibility and Government Waste
• 41:49 Trade Wars and Government Efficiency
• 42:43 Town Halls and Political Disruption
• 43:31 Republican Humor and Government Efficiency
• 47:50 Illegal Immigration and Poll Numbers
• 59:26 Woke Agenda and DEI Programs
• 01:10:20 Trump’s Congressional Requests
• 01:16:41 Final Thoughts and Poll Reactions

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode soon!

A Break Down About Campaigns, Political Chaos, and Elon Musk

Welcome back to The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky! In this episode, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr discuss the latest news on the 2026 Minnesota governor and U.S. Senate races, analyzing key candidates and surprising political developments. 

Becky shares personal updates about her pregnancy and offers insights on social etiquette for interacting with pregnant women.

The conversation then shifts to the ongoing investigations of the Minnesota House of Representatives Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Policy Committee and a detailed analysis of Elon Musk’s controversial email to the federal workforce. 

Tune in for an in-depth discussion on politics, policy, and current affairs.

• 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
• 00:47 Personal Updates: Becky’s Pregnancy
• 02:07 Pregnancy Etiquette and Experiences
• 06:50 Political Updates: 2026 Governor and Senate Races
• 07:04 Angie Craig’s Potential Candidacy
• 12:18 Democratic Candidates and Strategies
• 17:31 Republican Candidates and Challenges
• 26:00 Political Sacrifices and Strong Candidates
• 30:14 The Importance of Bipartisan Support
• 34:46 Fraud Issues in Minnesota’s Government
• 41:08 Elon Musk’s Controversial Email
• 46:45 The Role of Government Efficiency
• 55:16 Final Thoughts and Farewell

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week!