Michael Brodkorb

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!

Bonus Episode: The Battle for Minnesota’s Open Senate Seat

On a special Valentine’s Day bonus episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, join Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr as they dive into the big announcement from U.S. Senator Tina Smith that she will not seek re-election in 2026. 

This episode, featuring political strategists Will Davis and John Rouleau, analyzes the implications of Smith’s decision for both parties. 

The team explores potential Democratic and Republican candidates for the open U.S. Senate seat and speculates how this may impact the 2026 Minnesota governor’s race. 

This insightful discussion covers legislative backgrounds, primary and general election strategies, and the dynamics shaping the future of Minnesota politics!

• 00:00 Introduction and Special Guests
• 01:26 Tribute to Mike Kennedy
• 02:58 Senator Tina Smith’s Announcement
• 05:47 Implications for the 2026 Governor’s Race
• 08:28 Republican and Democrat Strategies
• 11:06 Potential Candidates for the Senate Seat
• 19:59 Governor Tim Walz vs. Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan
• 29:42 Potential Senate Candidates: Flanagan vs. Governor
• 31:08 Evaluating Tina Smith’s Legacy
• 33:36 Angie Craig: A Formidable Contender
• 39:50 Republican Prospects: Emmer and Pawlenty
• 45:26 Emerging Republican Candidates
• 54:40 Looking Ahead to the Governor’s Race
• 01:01:58 Final Thoughts and Farewell
• 01:02:36 Will Davis on Mike Kennedy

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

Episode 100: A Break Down with Rep. Kristin Robbins on Fighting Fraud

On this milestone 100th episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr are joined by Representative Kristin Robbins, who discusses her role as the chair of the newly formed House Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Policy Committee. 

The conversation covers the committee’s formation, goals, and the significant challenges of tackling fraud within state agencies. The episode also touches on the latest developments in Senator Nicole Mitchell’s felony charges, reactions to the Super Bowl, commercials, and the halftime show featuring Kendrick Lamar. 

Tune in for a comprehensive breakdown of state politics, current affairs, and more!

• 00:00 Introduction and Milestone Celebration
• 00:25 Welcoming Representative Kristin Robbins
• 00:48 The New House Fraud Prevention Committee
• 04:54 First Committee Hearing Insights
• 07:22 Legislative Efforts and Future Plans
• 11:51 Challenges and Support for Fraud Prevention
• 18:25 Committee’s Next Steps and Public Engagement
• 24:18 Interview Recap and Reflections
• 31:20 Layered Approach in Government Efforts
• 31:55 Committee Powers and Subpoena Limitations
• 33:35 Senator Nicole Mitchell’s Legal Troubles
• 37:35 Frustrations with Legislative Privileges
• 46:41 Super Bowl Recap: Game and Halftime Show
• 55:39 Super Bowl Commercials and Snacks
• 59:22 Closing Remarks and Listener Engagement

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

A Break Down About the Power-Sharing Agreement with Rep. Zack Stephenson

On this new episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr talk with Representative Zack Stephenson, who provides insights into the newly announced power-sharing agreement between Republicans and Democrats in the Minnesota House of Representatives.

The conversation covers the recent challenges faced by the Minnesota House, including the standoff over seating Representative Brad Tabke, legal battles, and the unprecedented decision to deny quorum.

They also discuss the implications of the new agreement, future budget concerns, and the dynamics of bipartisan cooperation in a closely divided legislature.

Next, Michael and Becky analyze the results of a recent KSTP poll on the Minnesota House of Representatives legislative standoff.

Join them for this detailed episode, and stay tuned for a lively discussion on the upcoming Super Bowl.

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 01:21 Interview with Representative Zack Stephenson
• 01:41 Power Sharing Agreement Breakdown
• 02:45 Controversies and Legal Challenges
• 05:39 Details of the Agreement
• 07:51 Future Implications and Reflections
• 21:47 Minnesota’s Budget and Economic Concerns
• 28:47 Closing Remarks and Super Bowl Predictions
• 32:37 Policing Membership in the Legislature
• 33:30 The Role of Republicans in the Legislative Process
• 35:25 Reflections on Recent Legislative Events
• 36:28 Speaker Demuth’s Optimistic Message
• 36:57 Challenges and Optimism in the Legislature
• 41:56 Poll Results and Public Opinion
• 49:40 Recall Petitions and Legislative Accountability
• 54:15 Fundraising and Political Strategy
• 59:35 Governor Walz’s Future and Political Speculations
• 01:02:18 Super Bowl Plans and Final Thoughts

The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a bonus episode later this week!