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!

A Break Down with Rochelle Olson: From the Newsroom to the Opinion Page

In this episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,’ host Michael Brodkorb welcomes Rochelle Olson, long-time journalist and current opinion columnist for the Star Tribune. 

With co-host Becky Scherr on maternity leave, Michael dives deep into Rochelle’s extensive journalism career covering Minnesota politics, her transition from reporting to opinion writing, and social media and misinformation challenges. 

Rochelle shares her experiences covering high-profile trials like that of Derek Chauvin, the intersection of sports and politics, and offers valuable advice for aspiring journalists. Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation.

• 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
• 01:00 Rochelle Olson’s Career Journey
• 01:16 Transition to Opinion Writing
• 02:42 Challenges of Opinion Writing
• 06:18 Covering High-Profile Trials
• 10:27 Balancing Mental Health in Journalism
• 14:02 Sports and Politics Intersection
• 20:48 Rochelle’s Story About Tom Brady
• 22:31 Lady Gaga’s Super Bowl Preparation
• 23:58 Social Media and Journalism
• 28:24 Misinformation in the Digital Age
• 34:23 Advice for Aspiring Journalists
• 38:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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

A Break Down with Mike Norton: Candid and Unfiltered

Welcome to another episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, as Michael Brodkorb continues to fly solo while Becky Scherr is on maternity leave. 

This week, Michael Brodkorb is joined by special guest Mike Norton, a prominent Minneapolis-based entrepreneur and political strategist. 

In this episode, they discuss Mike’s political journey, his take on Minneapolis’s current state, and the future of Minnesota’s second congressional district. Mike provides insights into his outspoken nature, his run for city council, and his views on various issues such as public education and healthcare. They also touch on the importance of civil discourse and the impact of social media in politics. 

Whether you’re a political junkie or someone interested in local affairs, this episode is packed with valuable discussions and perspectives.

• 00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement
• 00:14 Meet Mike Norton: Entrepreneur and Politico
• 00:48 Mike Norton’s Political Journey
• 01:33 Social Media and Authenticity
• 01:59 Becky’s Maternity Leave Announcement
• 02:32 Mike Norton’s Background and Achievements
• 06:03 The Art of Political Conversations
• 12:22 Optimism About Minneapolis
• 18:26 Biking in Minneapolis
• 27:35 Childhood Memories and Bicycle Tricks
• 27:54 Motorcycles: A Love-Hate Relationship
• 29:06 E-Bikes and Commuting
• 30:17 Political Journey and Minneapolis Politics
• 33:02 Challenges in the Political Process
• 40:09 Considering a Run for Congress
• 46:46 Policy Priorities and Vision
• 54:39 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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

Inbox Influence: A Break Down with Blois Olson

On this special episode of The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky, Michael Brodkorb flies solo while Becky Scherr is on maternity leave. 

Michael welcomes the esteemed political commentator Blois Olson, a pivotal figure in Minnesota politics and public policy. Listen in as Blois shares his journey from delivering newspapers to shaping the political discourse in Minnesota through his influential ‘Morning Take.’

The conversation covers various topics, including the evolution of political discourse, the role of social media, and the state of civic engagement in Minnesota. 

Blois also provides insights into how he balances his professional responsibilities, the impact of partisan politics, and the state’s future of media and public policy analysis. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone keen on understanding the intricate landscape of Minnesota politics.

• 00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement
• 02:58 Guest Background and Career Journey
• 05:47 The Evolution of ‘Morning Take’
• 08:21 Impact on Political News Timing
• 11:31 Balancing Political Commentary
• 16:35 The Role of Analysis in Politics
• 21:20 Social Media and Political Discourse
• 22:02 The Role of Twitter in Modern News Distribution
• 24:05 Civic Engagement and Trust in Government
• 25:55 Challenges in Government Efficiency
• 30:14 Partisanship and Political Collaboration
• 34:15 Future of Media and Politics in Minnesota
• 38:13 Reflections and Closing Remarks

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