Michael Brodkorb

A Break Down of Sen. Nicole Mitchell’s Trial, Epstein’s Client List Mystery, and Michael Brodkorb’s Substack Launch

Welcome back to ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky‘! In this action-packed episode, hosts Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr cover a wide array of topics in Minnesota and national politics. They welcome guests, former Rep. Kelly Fenton and Julius Hernandez, for a thought-provoking roundtable discussion. 

The episode begins with the ongoing trial of Senator Nicole Mitchell, delving into the body camera footage and the implications of her actions. The conversation then shifts to the notorious Jeffrey Epstein case and the mystery surrounding the non-existent client list. 

The spotlight also turns to Governor Tim Walz, examining his substantial legal fees related to a congressional hearing on immigration and sanctuary cities. Gov. Tim Walz’s approval ratings and potential third-term aspirations are discussed, and the episode concludes with the introduction of Michael’s new Substack. 

Tune in for all this and more, plus plenty of spirited debate and expert commentary. Don’t miss it!

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 00:25 Round Table Guests Introduction
• 00:46 Senator Nicole Mitchell’s Trial Breakdown
• 02:05 Discussion on Trial Footage and Defense
• 06:09 Panelists’ Opinions on the Trial
• 17:10 Epstein Client List Controversy
• 30:36 Trump’s Base Turns on Him Over Epstein Files
• 32:54 Governor Walz’s Congressional Hearing Expenses
• 36:04 Republican Criticism and Political Theater
• 40:25 Debate on Legal Counsel and Preparation
• 47:38 Governor Walz’s Approval Ratings and Future
• 57:02 Michael’s new Subtack and Podcast Wrap-Up

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

A Break Down Reflecting Further on Political Violence in Minnesota

In this new episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,’ co-hosts Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr pause from their usual political analysis to further address the tragic assassination of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, as well as the violent attack on Senator John Hoffman and his wife. 

This heartfelt episode covers the upcoming funeral arrangements, how Minnesotans can pay their respects, and the ongoing grief faced by the community. Michael and Becky also delve into the alarming rise of political violence and the importance of responding with purpose and decency. 

Join them as they navigate through these tough times with honesty and empathy.

• 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
• 00:15 Reflecting on the Tragedy
• 03:55 Honoring Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, her husband, Mark, and their dog, Gilbert.
• 08:19 Political Violence and Its Consequences
• 13:27 The Role of Social Media
• 24:18 Calls for Civility and Humanity
• 35:23 Conclusion and Call to Action

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

Help: Minnesota DFL Secretary Ceri Everett released two GoFundMe links to help the families impacted by the recent political violence in Minnesota. 

• Sen. John and Yvetter Hoffman: http://gofund.me/3cbcb4d3  
• Colin and Sophie Hortman: http://gofund.me/04065cf2

Buy: Erich Mische’s new book, ‘Go F@&king Do Something,’ which is a rallying cry that moves people from apathy to action.

Bonus Episode: ‘Go F@&king Do Something’ – Erich Mische’s Call to Action

Welcome to a special bonus episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky.’ In this episode, Michael Brodkorb talks with Erich Mische, a passionate nonprofit leader and political veteran known for his relentless drive and humor. Erich discusses his new book, ‘Go F@&king Do Something‘ which is a rallying cry to move from apathy to action.

The conversation delves into Erich’s journey, including floating down the Mississippi River on a homemade raft to raise awareness for families in crisis. Erich also speaks about the importance of civic engagement, social media’s dangerous impact on kids and adults, and the necessity to challenge power structures. 

Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring discussion, which urges everyone to follow Erich’s example and take action to make a difference!

• 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
• 00:15 Meet Erich Mische: Nonprofit Leader and Author
• 01:22 Discussing ‘Go F@&king Do Something‘
• 03:37 The Impact of Social Media on Civic Engagement
• 05:25 Responding to Tragedy: The Shooting of Public Officials
• 09:55 Erich’s Journey: From Capitol Hill to the Mississippi River
• 19:33 The Importance of Persistence and Civic Engagement
• 26:03 Empowerment and Personal Responsibility
• 27:45 Reflections on American Resilience
• 30:13 Frustration with Bureaucracy
• 32:01 Taking Action Against Bureaucracy
• 35:19 The Dangers of Social Media
• 42:07 Sustaining Passion and Making a Difference
• 47:52 Book Release Details and Final Thoughts

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

A Break Down About Grief, Anger, and Hope in Minnesota

In this emotionally charged episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,’ co-hosts Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr discuss Becky’s return from maternity leave and the tragic assassination of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, as well as the violent attack on Senator John Hoffman and his wife.

The conversation dives into the rise of political violence, its implications for Minnesota politics, and how the state can move forward. Throughout the episode, donation links to support the victims’ families are promoted. At the same time, Michael and Becky stress the importance of bipartisan support, responsible social media use, and maintaining civility in political discourse.

• 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
• 00:41 Tragic Events Unfold
• 01:21 Becky’s Return and Personal Updates
• 03:09 Fundraising Efforts for Victims
• 05:17 Details of the Attack
• 07:31 Community Reactions and Reflections
• 23:35 The Role of Social Media
• 26:45 Calls for Bipartisan Support and Civility
• 47:24 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps

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

Donate: Minnesota DFL Secretary Ceri Everett has released two GoFundMe links to help the families impacted by the recent political violence in Minnesota.

• Sen. John and Yvetter Hoffman: http://gofund.me/3cbcb4d3
• Colin and Sophie Hortman: http://gofund.me/04065cf2

A Break Down with Bryan Strawser on Cutting Through Immigration Misinformation

Welcome to another episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky. Michael Brodkorb is joined by Bryan Strawser, Principal and CEO of Bryghtpath and an expert with 30 years of experience in crisis management, business continuity, crisis communications, and global corporate security. 

The discussion revolves around two critical topics: the immigration standoff in California and the rampant misinformation surrounding a recent law enforcement raid in Minneapolis. Bryan provides a deep dive into the complexities of these issues, detailing the legal and policy nuances involved. They also explore the impact of misinformation spread through social media and by elected officials, emphasizing the need for accurate and responsible communication. 

Tune in for an insightful conversation that aims to move beyond the spin and into the facts.

• 00:00 Introduction to The Break Down Podcast
• 00:13 Meet Our Expert Guest: Bryan Strawser
• 01:43 Immigration Standoff in California
• 06:00 Federal and State Law Enforcement Dynamics
• 11:34 Legal and Political Implications
• 21:17 Disinformation and Misinformation
• 25:40 Civil Unrest and Misinformation
• 25:52 Best Practices to Combat Misinformation
• 26:59 Responsibility of Elected Officials
• 28:14 Impact on Law Enforcement
• 29:41 Federal Law Enforcement and Public Perception
• 32:08 Political and Policy Challenges
• 34:55 Protests and Public Sentiment
• 43:11 Advice for Elected Officials
• 49:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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

A Break Down with Senator Heather Gustafson: Why Minnesota Needs an Inspector General

In this episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb discusses government accountability with special guest Senator Heather Gustafson.

Representing Senate District 36 in the Minnesota Senate, Senator Gustafson discusses her bipartisan legislation to establish an independent Office of Inspector General in Minnesota. The discussion covers the need for this office, the importance of public trust in government, and the collaborative effort behind the bill.

The episode also delves into the challenges of bipartisanship, the legislative process, and the office’s role in preventing waste, fraud, and abuse.

Don’t miss this insightful episode that highlights pragmatic solutions for better governance.

• 00:00 Introduction to The Break Down Podcast
• 00:11 Meet Senator Heather Gustafson
• 01:12 Senator Gustafson’s Background and Career Path
• 02:50 Current Legislative Session and Special Session Insights
• 04:43 Discussing Waste, Fraud, and Abuse Legislation
• 05:08 The Office of Inspector General Proposal
• 06:00 Addressing Public Trust and Government Accountability
• 11:42 Cost and Fiscal Considerations of the Legislation
• 14:58 Ensuring Independence and Bipartisanship
• 17:32 Senate Confirmation Process
• 18:20 Bipartisan Efforts and Challenges
• 20:28 Legislative Process and Collaboration
• 25:36 The Bill’s Future and Legislative Strategy
• 29:59 Advice for Civic Engagement
• 34:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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

A Break Down Book Review of ‘Original Sin’

Welcome to another episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, as Michael Brodkorb dives deep into the explosive revelations of the new book ‘Original Sin’ by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson.

With special guests John Rouleau, a Republican strategist, and Julius Hernandez, a Democrat insider, the episode reviews the book detailing President Biden’s cognitive decline, the efforts to cover it up, and the political ramifications for the 2024 election.

The discussion also explores the accountability of Biden’s close circle, the impact on democratic processes, and the media’s role in perpetuating the cover-up.

Tune in for a riveting conversation that raises important questions about political integrity, media responsibility, and the future of American politics.

• 00:00 Introduction to The Break Down Podcast
• 00:14 Meet the Guests: John Rouleau and Julius Hernandez
• 00:33 Book Review: ‘Original Sin’ by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson
• 01:44 Discussion on Biden’s Cognitive Decline
• 02:50 Julius’ Take on the Book
• 04:20 John’s Perspective on the Book
• 06:11 Comparing Biden’s Scandal to Watergate
• 07:59 Media and Staff Cover-up
• 16:54 Staff’s Responsibility and Loyalty
• 25:08 Trump Derangement Syndrome and Democratic Hypocrisy
• 31:44 Dean Phillips: The Prophet in His Own Land
• 33:21 Dean Phillips’ Vindication
• 35:46 Call for Accountability and Transparency
• 37:24 Need for a 9/11 Type Commission
• 40:48 Media’s Role and Responsibility
• 44:27 Debate on Media Accountability
• 01:07:05 Final Thoughts and Book Recommendation

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

A Break Down with Anna Mathews: How to Win Campaigns in a Divided Party

In this episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,’ host Michael Brodkorb delves into the intricacies of Minnesota GOP politics with Anna Mathews, the former executive director of the Republican Party of Minnesota.

With Becky Scherr on maternity leave, Michael and Anna discuss her journey into politics, the endorsement process, internal GOP challenges, and the party’s future leading into the 2026 elections. 

Anna shares her perspective on relationship building within the party and the impact of current party dynamics on election success. This insightful conversation sheds light on the importance of grassroots involvement, the endorsement process, and the strategic vision needed for Republicans to thrive in Minnesota. 

Don’t miss this compelling episode with key political insights and practical advice.

• 00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement
• 01:33 Anna Mathews’ Political Journey
• 02:30 Campaign vs. Congressional Office
• 05:21 Internal Dynamics of the Minnesota GOP
• 07:58 Frustration and Misunderstanding in Politics
• 10:36 Action 4 Liberty’s Role and Impact
• 11:56 Challenges and Criticisms of Party Leadership
• 18:14 Endorsement Process and Party Dynamics
• 40:03 The Important Role of the MN GOP Executive Director
• 40:10 Complaints and Emotional Toll
• 41:14 Endorsement Reforms and Challenges
• 42:19 Scott Jensen’s Impact and Youth Engagement
• 44:33 The Importance of the Endorsement Process
• 49:03 Delegate Responsibility and Research
• 53:48 The Role of Grassroots and Caucusing
• 01:01:46 Trump’s Influence and Republican Dynamics
• 01:13:05 Looking Ahead to 2026 Elections
• 01:16:04 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

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