A Break Down with Jim Rubin: The Fight to Save Minneapolis

Welcome to another episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky‘, with Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr. This week, they are joined by Jim Rubin, a Minneapolis-based business leader and co-founder of Mint Properties, who shares his insights on the city’s declining housing and public safety landscape.

Jim discusses his participation in the documentary ‘A Precarious State,’ the devastating impact of the political climate on his business, and the broader issues of crime, public safety, and political divide.

They also explore the challenges and potential solutions for turning Minneapolis around and ensuring a safer, more prosperous future. Tune in to hear a compelling conversation about the consequences of current policies, the critical upcoming election, and actionable steps for change.

• 00:00 Welcome and Episode Overview
• 00:08 Introducing Guest Jim Rubin
• 00:58 Jim Rubin’s Involvement in ‘A Precarious State‘ Documentary
• 04:25 Challenges in Minneapolis: Crime and Public Safety
• 07:44 Impact on Business and Community
• 16:25 Political Landscape and DSA Influence
• 29:06 Personal Attacks and Legal Battles
• 36:32 Understanding Minneapolis’ Power Structure
• 37:10 The Impact of Leadership on City Dynamics
• 38:07 The Consequences of DSA Policies
• 41:16 The State and County Level Implications
• 45:40 Public Safety and Police Challenges
• 51:05 Jim Rubin’s Perspective and Future
• 53:27 Recap of Rubin Interview
• 01:08:44 Fantasy Football Update
• 01:10:31 Closing Remarks

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

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A Break Down with Ryan Wilson: Tackling Fraud in Minnesota

Welcome to another episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky‘, with Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr. In this episode, Michael and Becky welcome back Ryan Wilson, attorney and chair of the Minnesota chapter of America First Policy Institute, to discuss his recent op-ed, ‘Enough is Enough. It’s Time to Stop the Fraud.’ The conversation delves into evidence of fraud in Minnesota, proposed reforms to address it, and more.

Michael and Becky also discuss the recent ceasefire in the Middle East and the significant role President Trump played in it. Finally, they touch on the controversy surrounding former Congresswoman Katie Porter, her treatment of staff, and its political implications in the California gubernatorial race.

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

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 00:57 Ryan Wilson’s Op-Ed On Stopping Fraud
• 02:03 Fraud in Minnesota: A Growing Concern
• 05:04 Proposed Reforms and Solutions
• 08:18 The Role of Government and Accountability
• 19:28 America First Policy Institute in Minnesota
• 29:21 Ceasefire in the Middle East: A Historic Moment
• 33:58 Trump’s Role in the Middle East Ceasefire
• 34:47 Criticism and Praise for the Ceasefire
• 36:06 Reflecting on Past Presidential Achievements
• 36:45 The Importance of Supporting the President
• 38:17 Transition to Katie Porter’s Controversies
• 38:49 Katie Porter’s Interview Response Controversy
• 43:42 Porter’s Staff Interactions
• 50:27 Gender Double Standards in Politics
• 58:44 Fantasy Football Update
• 01:00:15 Closing Remarks

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

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A Break Down with Joe Teirab: Why Mary Moriarty’s Traffic Stop Policy Is Wrong

In this episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky‘, Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr dive into current public safety issues against the backdrop of fall with guest Joe Teirab, an attorney and former federal prosecutor at the US Attorney’s Office in Minneapolis.

The conversation centers on Joe’s recent Star Tribune op-ed criticizing Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty’s traffic stop policy, which he argues jeopardizes public safety.

Joe outlines how this policy affects law enforcement’s ability to charge felony-level offenses stemming from low-level traffic violations, drawing on his extensive prosecutorial experience. The discussion also extends to Joe’s new role as the Minnesota State Co-Chair for US Term Limits.

Michael and Becky then shift to a recent Star Tribune panel discussion on the future of the Republican Party in Minnesota, featuring former Governor Tim Pawlenty and State Senators Zach Duckworth and Julia Coleman.

This episode’s comprehensive discussion offers invaluable insights into public policy, legal approaches, and political strategies for shaping a safer and more effective Minnesota.

• 00:00 Welcome and Episode Overview
• 01:07 Joe Teirab’s Op-Ed on Traffic Stop Policy
• 03:03 Debate on Moriarty’s Policy and Its Implications
• 07:42 Real-World Consequences of Policy Changes
• 28:29 Joe Teirab’s New Role and Term Limits Advocacy
• 30:53 Debating Term Limits: A Fresh Perspective
• 33:01 The Power of Incumbency and Its Impact
• 34:13 Devil’s Advocate: Potential Downsides of Term Limits
• 38:03 Public Support and the Path Forward for Term Limits
• 40:49 Reflecting on the Interview with Joe Tera
• 41:41 Mary Moriarty’s Policies Under Scrutiny
• 46:39 The Future of the Republican Party: Panel Insights
• 56:23 NFL Picks and Fantasy Football Updates

58:25 Closing Remarks and Episode Recap

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

Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe

Bonus Episode: A Break Down with Rep. Elliott Engen on WBL School Safety

Welcome to a special bonus episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky!’ In this episode, host Michael Brodkorb explores the disturbing case of a 22-year-old man with a criminal record who allegedly used a false identity to enroll in multiple high schools in Minnesota.

Joining him is Representative Elliot Engen to discuss the systemic failures that allowed this to happen at White Bear Lake Area High School and other institutions.

They delve into the lack of proper documentation and verification protocols, as well as the urgent need for legislative changes to protect students. Please tune in for a comprehensive examination of this alarming situation and its broader implications for school safety.

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 00:07 Unpacking the Bizarre Story
• 00:31 Interview with Representative Elliot Engen
• 01:41 Details of the Incident
• 02:40 Systemic Failures and Concerns
• 06:17 Broader Implications and Safeguards
• 12:24 Accountability and Next Steps
• 19:53 Conclusion and Call to Action

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

Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe

A Break Down About Uber-Lyft, Lies, and Regent Selection

Welcome to another episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky‘, with Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr. This week, Michael and Becky dive deep into the week’s hot political topics. They discuss the ongoing drama surrounding Minneapolis mayoral candidate and State Senator Omar Fateh, whose dishonesty over threats over contentious Uber-Lyft legislation has stirred controversy ahead of the mayoral race.

Representative Marion Rarick joins to talk about the recent University of Minnesota Regents nominations, scrutinizing the unorthodox appointment process by Governor Tim Walz.

The show also covers a Minneapolis City Council Member Aisha Chughtai’s use of vulgar language against Mayor Jacob Frey, reflecting the toxic political climate.

Lastly, they address President Trump’s new campaign to end mail-in ballots. Tune in for a compelling discussion packed with insights and controversy!

• 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
• 01:12 Minneapolis Mayoral Race Drama
•  01:46 Senator Omar Fateh’s Legislative Controversy
•  03:57 Political Gamesmanship and Honesty
• 04:41 Impact on Minneapolis Politics
• 11:23 Rep. Marion Rarick Interview
• 11:31 University of Minnesota Regents Controversy
• 15:19 Governor’s Appointments and Political Fallout
• 18:00 Legislative Process and Transparency Issues
• 29:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
• 33:39 Reflecting on the Interview with Representative CK
• 38:28 Controversial Remarks at the Uptown Music Festival
• 48:13 Debating Mail-In Voting and Election Integrity
•  01:01:53 Minnesota State Fair and Podcast Announcements

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

Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe

A Break Down About Police, Politics, and Polls

Join us in this episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky’, with Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr. This week, Michael and Becky Scherr are joined by David FitzSimmons, Chief of Staff for Congressman Brad Finstad, and a former state representative known for his political acumen.

The discussion kicks off with President Donald Trump’s recent move to bring the Washington, D.C. Police under federal control, followed by an in-depth analysis of Minnesota’s political scene heading into the 2026 elections.

They touch on crime rates, recent polling data from the America First Policy Institute, and the impact of economic policies on Minnesota residents. The episode also covers the controversy surrounding Minneapolis City Council staffers participating in protests during a federal drug raid.

Tune in for an insightful and detailed discussion on current political affairs.

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:53 Big News of the Week: Trump Takes Over DC Police
• 02:33 Discussion on Crime in Washington, DC.
• 07:28 Political Reactions and Implications
• 21:55 2026 Midterm Elections Outlook
• 29:20 Minnesota’s Political Landscape
• 38:06 Polling and Public Opinion in Minnesota
• 41:15 Concerning Trends in Minnesota’s Population and Economy42:00 Fraud and Accountability in Minnesota’s Government
• 43:04 Republican Messaging on Fraud and Policy
• 47:06 Economic Concerns and Tax Policies
• 52:14 Abortion Debate and Political Strategy
• 01:01:58 Minneapolis Politics and Protests
• 01:12:58 Reflections and Closing Remarks

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

Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe

A Break Down with Andy Brehm: From Baseball to Ballots

Welcome to another fantastic episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,’ with Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr.

This week, hosts Michael and Becky are joined by Andy Brehm, Star Tribune columnist, corporate lawyer, and vocal Republican from Minnesota. Andy discusses his recent op-eds in the Star Tribune, highlighting his views on the Minnesota Twins’ recent trades and the team’s relationship with taxpayers.

Brehm also dives into the implications of electing Senator Omar Fateh as the Mayor of Minneapolis, focusing on the potential national impact and how it could aid President Trump’s agenda.

The episode also touches on the Texas redistricting battle, exploring the Republican efforts, the Democratic strategies, and potential national outcomes. Tune in for a compelling discussion on politics, policy, and current affairs!

• 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
• 00:31 Minnesota Twins Trade Controversy
• 06:05 Impact on Season Ticket Holders
• 10:29 Political Implications of Sports Funding
• 13:57 Minneapolis Mayoral Race and Its Implications
• 28:52 City Leadership and Priorities
• 29:50 Impact of Mayoral Leadership
• 30:21 Political Anger and Its Consequences
• 30:56 Reflections on the Interview
• 35:43 Texas Redistricting Drama
• 46:49 Legislative Walkouts and Their Implications
• 59:12 Concluding Thoughts and Announcements

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

Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe

A Break Down About Special Elections, DSA Platform, Naked Man at the Capitol, and an Axe Murderer

Welcome to another fantastic episode of ‘The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,’ with Michael Brodkorb and Becky Scherr.

In this episode, they begin by discussing the upcoming special elections for three vacant seats in the Minnesota legislature, including those left vacant by the resignation of Senator Nicole Mitchell and the death of Senator Bruce Anderson. In a follow-up, they analyze Senator Mitchell’s legal troubles and resignation.

The duo then shifts focus to a bizarre incident at the Minnesota Capitol involving a naked man, examining the security lapses and implications for future legislative sessions.

Continuing a discussion from last week’s episode about the race for mayor in Minneapolis, special guest Julius Hernandez joins to critique the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) platform in response to Michael’s Substack post and how the DSA’s controversial policies could influence the Minneapolis mayoral race and other political landscapes.

Lastly, they explore the parole release of ax murderer David Brom under new Minnesota laws, sparking a heated debate about public safety and the upcoming election cycle. Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation that navigates the complexities of contemporary Minnesota politics.

• 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
• 00:58 Special Elections in Minnesota
• 01:54 Senator Nicole Mitchell’s Resignation
• 07:28 Senator Bruce Anderson’s Passing
• 10:00 Naked Man Incident at the Capitol
• 11:17 Discussion on Capitol Security
• 16:54 Interview with Julius Hernandez on DSA Platform
• 26:52 Debating Democratic Socialism
• 28:06 Media Bias and Political Messaging
• 29:03 Internal Divisions in the Democratic Party
• 31:11 The Role of Media in Political Narratives
• 32:17 The Future of Democratic Socialism
• 42:27 Controversial Release of a Convicted Murderer
• 44:37 Political Ramifications of Crime Policies
• 54:13 Closing Remarks and Future Implications

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

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