The Um, Sir Podcast

Five Flaming Paper Bags: Vote No on Snohomish's Charter Amendments

In this episode of The Um, Sir Podcast, Emily and Demi Chatters, District 2 Commissioner on the Snohomish County Charter Review Commission, break down the five charter amendments on the November ballot (or as they'd put it, five flaming paper bags on your doorstep) and deliver one simple message: don't touch them, vote no on all of them. Demi recounts how a developer-funded PAC helped conservatives sweep 11 of 15 commission seats in a low-turnout election, plus the delightful hire of a developer lobbying firm's vice president (and cousin of a sitting commissioner) as commission clerk. She challenged it, and was told to "keep this in the family." Cool. The through-line: this is a local version of Project 2025. "Project 42" (Washington is the 42nd state, very clever), a coordinated effort that killed every community-driven proposal, from ranked choice voting to real contract transparency. Demi and her three non-PAC-funded colleagues filed a formal letter of dissent that no media touched. All politics is local, your vote matters, and the whole thing lands somewhere between civic education and two politico friends laughing so they don't cry. Remember to VOTE! Check your ballot and status at Votewa.gov Find a ballot Drop Box (It's the most reliable way to get your vote counted) at the Washington State Secretary of State's Website HERE. And reach out for other ways to get involved and spread the word!

Falling Into Ditches & Other Leadership Strategies

In this episode, Emily shares her greatest professional bloopers. From the now infamous "welcome to be here" podcast flub to rambling about ditches on the House of Representatives Floor. She reveals how these cringe-worthy moments accidentally became her superpower. Spoiler: The secret to building community isn’t being perfect, it’s being real (even when that means laughing at yourself). A hilarious and heartfelt reminder that our mess is what makes us human.

Almost Live! August Primary Election Watch Party

Emily and her guest Sam Minter go almost live for primary election night, breaking down Michigan’s tight Democratic Senate race (El-Sayed vs. Stevens), Washington’s local battles from state Legislative Districts on the west and east side of the state, to Supreme Court contests, and the tension between voting your conscience or strategizing—plus real-time reactions to turnout, levy wins, and why independent candidates rarely work in WA. Check out your ballot status in Washington State - Vote.Wa.Gov Bill Phillips Commentary on National races - Facebook Democrats Confront Their New Tea Party Reality- Huffington Post Washington state primary election results 2026 - Seattle Times El-Sayed and Stevens Project Party Unity After Divisive Race - New York Times

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Childcare: An Economic Engine

On this episode, we dig into childcare, because here’s the thing: it’s not just a parent problem, it’s an everyone problem. Debbie Carlsen, founder of Washington Families Thrive and general community superhero, joined us to break down why childcare crisis is tanking our workforce, and what the hell we can do about it. The shit news? 40% of families are cutting hours, 30% are turning down jobs, and 20% are quitting because childcare is either impossible to find or impossible to afford. Meanwhile, we’re underpaying the educators who could literally change our kids’ lives. High-quality early learning interrupts poverty, boosts graduation rates, and even breaks the school-to-prison pipeline—but we treat the people doing this work like glorified babysitters instead of the skilled professionals they are. Debbie’s org is doing the work: matching families with providers, helping childcare businesses fill their slots, and pushing for real solutions. But here’s the kicker—we need everyone at the table. Businesses, stop whining about labor shortages and start offering childcare benefits. Policy makers, stop pretending this is just a “women’s issue” and start treating it like the economic priority it is. Bottom line: Childcare isn’t a niche problem. It’s infrastructure. And it’s past time we acted like it. Need help or want to help? Hit up WashingtonFamiliesThrive.com.

Sports with Keith: FIFA, World Cup & All the Drama

In this episode of the Um Sir Podcast, Emily's sits down with Keith Macaulay to unpack FIFA’s wild ride. From its "humble" 1904, Old Boys Club beginnings as a small European club to the multi-billion-dollar powerhouse it is today. They dive into the corruption, the backroom deals, and the larger-than-life characters like João Havelange and Sepp Blatter who turned development funds into political currency and World Cup bids into bidding wars. The conversation covers the 2015 DOJ probe, the Garcia Report cover-up, and the human cost of hosting controversies like Qatar 2022. But hey, for all the drama, it’s still the beautiful game, bringing the world together, one goal at a time. Listen: Pitch to Puget Sound Podcast Local Playbook: Game on Everett Puget Sound Deets: Seattle FWC Documentaries & Series FIFA Uncovered (Netflix) – 3-part docuseries on FIFA’s corruption El Presidente (Prime Video) – Season 2 covers João Havelange’s rise and reign ESPN’s Qatar World Cup investigation (featuring Jeremy Schaap) Copa 90’s Argentina series – Deep dive into the nation’s football passion News & Investigative Reports: The Guardian: 6,500+ migrant worker deaths in Qatar (2010–2020) – Wage theft, passport confiscation, and extreme heat conditions. U.S. DOJ 2015 FIFA Corruption Case – Press releases and findings The Garcia Report – FIFA’s redacted summary (full report was suppressed) Historical Events 1966 World Cup controversy – Suspected bias against Brazil 1974 Chile-USSR playoff – Played in a stadium used as a torture camp under Pinochet 2010 Haiti earthquake – FIFA emergency funds stolen by Jack Warner 2018/2022 World Cup bidding scandals – Russia and Qatar’s bribery schemes 2034 World Cup bid – Saudi Arabia’s controversial selection "Official" & Reference FIFA’s official website – Current sponsors, tournaments, and governance UEFA – European football’s governing body CONCACAF – North/Central America & Caribbean federation CONMEBOL – South American football confederation U.S. Soccer Federation – Governance and team info

Introducing The Future of Our Former Democracy

While Samie and Emily break for their mental health, they're dropping a very special episode from The Future of Our Former Democracy—yes, the Signal Award-winning podcast that’s basically Snohomish’s coolest export besides, like, Colin Cole (hi, Colin!). It’s made by this Seattle-based racial justice org, More Equitable Democracy, which, same, icon behavior. This season they are drawing parallels between Nazi Germany’s rise and, uh… *gestures vaguely at everything*… our current political moment. And how Germany rebuilt its democracy to keep extremism from pulling a sequel. Episode one is all about how Germany overhauled its elections post-WWII to avoid, y’know, another fascist takeover. And now Colin and Heather Villanueva are over here like, ‘So… how do we not repeat history?’ Mood. Want more? Hit follow on The Future of Our Former Democracy wherever you get your podcasts: Apple, Spotify, all the usual suspects. Trust us, it’s a vibe.

Um, Civics: The Unsexy (But Totally Necessary) World of Charter Review

Guest: Randy Bolerjack, Everett Charter Review Committee Member The Gist: Emily in Everett sits down with Randy Bolerjack, another self-proclaimed "civic nerd" and Everett’s Charter Review Committee member, to unpack the wildly underrated world of city charters. Spoiler: It’s the rulebook for how your city (or county) runs, and most of us have no idea what’s in it, let alone, what it is! Why It Matters: Your city’s charter = its constitution. Want to change how local government works? This is where it starts. Everett’s committee (15 members, because democracy loves a crowd) is reviewing everything from council powers to election rules. And yes, they want your input. Randy’s day job? Overseeing WA state’s elections, libraries, and charities. So if you thought this was nerdy, just wait. Call to Action: Read your city’s charter. Attend a meeting. Pretend to care at parties. Vibe Check: ✅ Wonky but fun ✅ 100% necessary ✅ Guaranteed to make you the most interesting person at your next city council meeting Listen if: You’ve ever wondered why your local government works the way it does (or doesn’t). P.S. Randy’s a Coug. We’ll let you decide if that’s a pro or a con. Learn more: Follow Randy on Instagram Email Randy: randybolerjack@outlook.com Everett Charter Review Committee County Forms of Government - Municipal Research and Services Center of Washington (MSRC) Snohomish County Charter Review Commission What is a Charter? - League of Women Voters' of Snohomish County Who is running the Snohomish County Charter Review Commission? - News Tribune By Abi Ludwig is a co-founder of Standing for Washington, sponsors of Everett Initiative 24-03 Washington State Secretary of State Elections Everett Link Extension - Sound Transit Build the Damn Trains Everett Outdoor Event Center - City of Everett Everett AquaSox 2026 Season

Um Civics: "Shit’s Terrible" The Marie G. Paradox

This week on Um, Sir, we take a deep dive into Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez. The vibes, the votes, the “I’m not like other Democrats” energy, and ask the question: who exactly is this for? From SAVE Act support to ICE funding to car analogies that never quite land, we unpack the rural vs. Seattle narrative, Blue Dog politics, and what it actually means to represent working people without throwing your own base under the bus. It’s nuanced. It’s spicy. It’s a little exasperated. And yes… shit’s terrible. Note: She did, in fact, end up voting against the Save Act the very next day. Did she see our "bang" reel on Instagram? CHECK OUT Snohomish Podcast Network Right to Repair - Facebook The Banana Act (Food Handling Reform) - Facebook LISTEN Marie Gluesenkamp Perez on What Urbanites Get Wrong about Rural America - Blue City Blues Podcast with David Hyde and Sandeep Kaushik Seattle Nice Podcast - with David Hyde, Erica Barnett, and Sandeep Kaushik WATCH I'm definitely not your typical candidate for Congress - Facebook Running an Auto Repair Shop (August 2024 Reel) - Instagram "Shit’s Terrible” – ICE Funding Defense Clip - Instagram Bumper Stickers & Branding (October 2024) - Instagram Border Security / Fentanyl Messaging Shift (June 2024 Ad) - Facebook “I Can’t Believe I’m Still Saying This” (Fundraising Video – June 28, 2025) - Instagram 4/24 Outside Marie Glusenkamp Perez’s Town Hall - TikTok That’s it! Emily is growing out her bangs. Thanks for the “heads up” - Instagram READ The Betrayals of Marie Gluesenkamp Perez by Karissa Halstrom - Current Affairs Blue Dogs aim to grow their ranks - Politico Israel bars Muslim Reps. Omar and Tlaib from visiting the country - NBC News Gluesenkamp Perez Releases Statement After Voting to Reopen the Government - Press Release Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez joins other Democrats to vote against SAVE America Act - The Columbian ON WHISTLES Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network on Whistles Our Common Power on Whistles Update: WAISN blocked us - SuperFamilia_KC SUPPORT Our Common Power LEARN MORE Five Things to Know About the SAVE America Act - Bipartisan Policy Center Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez - House of Representatives Webpage Contributions - Federal Elections Commission According to the American Jewish Committee “From the River to the Sea” Meaning

Halftime Investigations & Full-Time Idiots

Congress is investigating the Super Bowl halftime show (because priorities), the Epstein files are still a mess, and somehow Dr. Oz wants us to trust him again. Cool, cool. This week, Emily, Samie, and special guest Cindy Goble (elections queen, law degree holder, civic enthusiast) break down the Grammys fashion chaos, Bad Bunny’s culture-shifting halftime show, Jake Paul’s colonizer nonsense, and why Republicans are mad about Puerto Rico existing. We spiral (responsibly) through Epstein updates, local ballot drama, and the radical concept of… voting. Grab a beverage. Democracy is tired, but we’re not. CHECK OUT Snohomish Podcast Network Book banning in Washington state: An FAQ - ACLU of Washington U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Epstein Files Release Portal - U.S. Justice Department Washington State Voter Portal (register, check ballot status, text notifications) - WA Secretary of State Washington State Legislature bill tracker - Washington State Legislature LISTEN “I don’t have to understand something to appreciate it” - TheDadChats WATCH PBS Documentary: The Librarians - PBS Naked Attraction - HBO Anoushka DiGiorgio, Epstine File Dump Betrayal - TikTok Super Bowl Halftime Show full performance (Bad Bunny) - Reddit Trevor Noah’s Grammy monologue recap - TikTok Dropkick Murphys statement regarding Wasserman Media - Facebook Congressional press statements about investigating the halftime show - YouTube READ 'Suspicious' substance found in Snohomish County ballot box, sheriff says - KING 5 “Good Republican” Bill. HB 1584: Ending vote by mail for nonabsentee voters and restoring in-person voting at polling places and voting centers. - Washington State Legislature Thousands of Epstein documents taken down after victims identified - MSN Heidi Klum’s Nude 2026 Grammys Dress Is Molded to Her Butt Crack - Cosmopolitan Every Single Gorgeous Red Carpet Look From the 2026 Grammy Awards - Cosmopolitan The Files & Carol Montgomery - Justice.Gov

Part 2: Sanctuary Cities for Employers

Um, Sir: Part Two picks up an unfiltered, wide-ranging conversation with Ryan Johnson that dives headfirst into immigration, ICE, labor exploitation, and who actually benefits from the system as it exists. From a blue-collar truck driver’s perspective, the hosts unpack why employer accountability (not worker punishment) is the missing piece in the immigration debate, drawing clear lines between labor trafficking, modern-day exploitation, and political cowardice. Along the way, the episode weaves in history, media, pop culture, and a brutally honest conversation about messaging, power, and why talking at people instead of with them keeps us stuck. It’s raw, funny, uncomfortable, and exactly the conversation we’re not having enough. CHECK OUT Snohomish Podcast Network LISTEN Um, Sir – Part One: Labor, Logistics, and Losing Our Minds Curmudgeon's Corner Good Hang with Amy Poehler - YouTube WATCH Stranger Things A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms House of the Dragon Shameless READ Employing undocumented workers in Texas is illegal, but rarely enforced - KXKN Employers steal billions from workers’ paychecks each year - Economic Policy Institute The Fourth Turning Is Here - By Neil Howe A Chill Sets In for Undocumented Workers, and Those Who Hire Them - NY Times Without DALE, Employers Gain More Power to Exploit Workers - Center for Law and Social Policy Undocumented builders face unchecked exploitation amid Trump raids: ‘It’s more work, less pay’ - The Guardian The Everett Massacre - Everett Public Library The Minneapolis teamsters’ strike of 1934 - MinnPost 1997 United Parcel Service Strike - Teamsters for a Democratic Union Chicago Teamsters’ Strike of 1905: Topics in Chronicling America - Library of Congress SUPPORT Northwest Immigrant Rights Project Northwest Community Bail Fund Washington State Labor Council (PBS) Public Broadcasting Systems Support KUOW & NPR BUY. IF YOU MUST Union-made goods and fair-labor brands (if you’re going to spend money anyway) Merch or memberships that support independent podcasts and creators LEARN MORE Workers’ Rights, National Immigration Law Center Immigrant and Justice Toolkit - Washington State Labor Council Seattle Legal Defense Network National Immigration Legal Services Directory What ITINs are and how undocumented workers actually pay taxes

Labor, Logistics, and Losing Our Minds

Um, Sir… why is everything terrible, radioactive, and somehow still about bathrooms? Emily and Samie are joined by Ryan Johnson, a veteran truck driver and Teamster, to unpack how trucking, labor rights, and basic human dignity collide. Ryan breaks down how trucking is structured to reward long hours, unpaid waiting time, and “pay by the mile” systems that leave workers absorbing all the risk — including the fight to secure something as basic as bathroom access. The conversation escalates (quickly) into fracking, radioactive wastewater, and how hazardous materials are moved and dumped with little enforcement, putting workers and communities at risk. It’s bleak, sharp, and painfully funny — a reminder that everything is connected, and none of it works without labor. CHECK OUT Snohomish Podcast Network International Brotherhood of Teamsters General Teamsters Local Union No. 38 HB 1706, Concerning truck drivers ability to access restroom facilities (2022) WA State Legislature Trucker Resource, Port of Everett LISTEN From Pitch To Puget Sound - upcoming new show! Good Time Girls in Bellingham - Bellingham History WATCH Ice Road Truckers, The History Channel Poisoned Waters (full documentary), PBS Frontline Geochemistry of produced waters sourced from the Marcellus Shale, Justin Makey, PhD, YouTube READ America’s Radioactive Secret, By Justin Nobel (2020), Rolling Stone I’m A Twenty Year Truck Driver, I Will Tell You Why America’s “Shipping Crisis” Will Not End, By Ryan Johnson, Medium I Am A Twenty Year Truck Driver, Part 2: How Truckers Are Paid, By Ryan Johnson, Medium Radioactive Shadow Workers: The treatment of oil and gas field waste is a dirty industry’s dirtiest secret, By Justin Nobel, Sierra Club Magazine Truckers Petition Feds to Enforce HAZMAT Rules on Oil and Gas Waste, By Dustin Renaud, Earth Justice Orphan Well Explosion in Wayne National Forest Injures 6, Including 5 Critically, The Intelligencer SUPPORT Worker-led labor organizations and strike funds supporting drivers, warehouse workers, and port labor. Environmental justice groups fighting toxic dumping and injection wells, especially in Appalachia. Local and national efforts pushing for enforcement of existing hazmat and labor laws (not just new bills). BUY. IF YOU MUST Union-made goods Waste: One Woman's Fight Against America's Dirty Secret by Catherine Coleman Flowers (2020) Run to Failure: BP and the Making of the Deepwater Horizon Disaster by Abrahm Lustgarten (2012) Poisoned Water: How the Citizens of Flint, Michigan, Fought for Their Lives and Warned the Nation by Candy J. Cooper and Marcina Wheeler (2020) Not radioactive road salt. Ever. Just… don’t. LEARN MORE Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Basics of hazardous materials law, bills of lading, National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) How to read rail and truck placards

Um, Civics: Please Open Your Ballot

This week on Um, Sir, Emily and Samie are joined by veteran educator Steve Cross for a wide-ranging conversation that connects everyday chaos to the very real stakes of public education. From teaching middle school and surviving ninth graders to Caribbean travel detours and student protests, they manage to discuss it all. Listen as they attempt to break down school levies and bonds, share how property taxes actually fund schools, and discuss why low-turnout elections have lasting consequences for students, teachers, and communities. It’s a reminder that school funding isn’t abstract—it’s counselors, class sizes, safe buildings, and support kids rely on every day. Civics, but make it human. CHECK OUT Vote.Wa.Gov Snohomish Podcast Network Everett Public Schools Bond and Levy Information Snohomish School District Levy Information Property Tax Basics - Municipal Research & Service Center (MRSC) Everett High School students walked out of classes today in protest ICE activity in Snohomish County and around the country - Instagram, Iganniphoto Happening now at the Snohomish County Campus Plaza. Everett High School students have gathered to protest ICE, today, Tuesday, Jan. 13. - Facebook, Everett Post LISTEN Um, Sir Podcast: RFK Impersonations, Property Tax Bills, and Smut Um, Sir Podcast: The System Is Designed to Kill Your Bil Morbid Podcast - Spotify Every Outfit Podcast WATCH Bonds & Levies: What’s the Difference - NWESD YouTube Hilary Knight on Chasing Olympic Gold, Team USA Pressure, and the Future of Women’s Hockey - FanSided NHL, YouTube Aneta Tejralova —> Sarah Fillier #HFHits - HockeyFights, Instagram Professor Shocks High School by Speaking Gen Z Slang - Facebook READ Everett High students walk out to protest ICE activity - Everett Herald Local high school students rally in support against ICE activities - The Clipper Schools eye fixes to leaky roofs, aging boilers, old tech - Everett Herald (April 17, 2022) The Pathfinder: The Ballot Information Problem - Cascade PBS In Our View: Local media’s decline factors into election - The Columbian Equal is Not Good Enough: An Analysis of School Funding Across the U.S. and Within Each State - The Education Trust Breaking down WA's school funding formula - Cascade PBS Explainers on property taxes and special taxing districts (fire, school, library, ports) 2023 is the new worst: Washington again sets a record for low turnout in a general election - The Cascadia Advocate Seattle Torrent player suspended for 'forceful, predatory' check to opponent's head - KOMO News SUPPORT (PBS) Public Broadcasting Systems Support KUOW & NPR BUY. IF YOU MUST Rum from Antigua (coconut, vanilla, cardamom optional) - Total Wine and More Torrent Hockey Tickets LEARN MORE Levy Data, Rolls, and Election Results Data - Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction Granite Falls School District Levy Information Snohomish County Sample Ballots and Voters Guide Northwest Educational Service District (ESD 189)

Um, Civics: The System Is Designed to Kill Your Bill

Emily walks Ashley (and all of us) through how a bill actually becomes law in Washington. Spoiler: it’s messy, slow, and absolutely designed to kill your idea. Using the fictional Rhythm Reduction Act (RIP dancing), they break down committees, sponsors, lobbyists, hearings, caucuses, companion bills, and why a 60-day session turns everyone feral. Along the way: dinosaurs, pickleball, Bic pens, why the minority party controls the clock, and a reminder that democracy is less Schoolhouse Rock and more group project with deadlines and vibes. CHECK OUT Washington State Legislature Bill Tracker The Snohomish Podcast Network Committee schedules & public hearing calendars Washington State legislative session calendar & cutoff deadlines *Research your favorite advocacy organization and find their Advocacy Day! LISTEN Um, Sir Podcast Um, Civics: FIFA 2026 and the Politics Behind the Pitch Capitol Ideas Podcast WATCH I'm Just a Bill, Schoolhouse Rock - YouTube TVW - Committee hearings livestreams from Olympia READ The Washington Standard Axios Politics Fiscal notes (and why they kill dreams) Governor’s Veto Power in Washington: How It Works and Why It Matters - Tri City Regional Chamber of Commerce Initiative and Referendum Processes - National Conference of State Legislatures BUY. IF YOU MUST Pocket Constitution Washington State Legislative Gift Center! LEARN MORE Washington State Civic Education Programs

Tragic Optimism & Costco Receipts

In this messy New Year’s edition of Um, Sir Podcast, Emily holds down the mic solo and rings in the new year with Everett real estate powerhouse Ashley Bolden for a raw, wide-ranging conversation that spirals exactly where it needs to. From Costco sticker shock and the true cost of living, to housing affordability, civil liberties, nihilism vs. hope, and whether West Virginia is a secret real-estate opportunity or an absolute no. Nothing is off the table. Along the way, Emily confidently misquotes several philosophers, attributes at least one quote to the wrong person, then powers through anyway, proving once again that vibes > citations. This is a New Year check-in for anyone exhausted by late-stage capitalism but still stubbornly committed to finding meaning, community, and a way forward. CHECK OUT The Income Needed to Buy a Home in 2025 - Post Referenced, Facebook The Snohomish Podcast Network Everett Recovery Café (community recovery & mutual aid model) Everett Rotary Club LISTEN Um, Sir Podcast Neighbor-ish: Building Community Through Homeownership (and Renting, Too) - the At-Homish Podcast Brene Brown on Comparative Suffering WATCH Alone (Reality Survival) Show Broad City, The Florida Sun - Comedy Central READ Broad City, S04E07 "Florida" Discussion Thread - Reddit Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl - by Max Gravenstein, Medium 'Tragic optimism': The antidote to toxic positivity - Allie Volpe, BBC Affordability and Homebuilding: State-by-State Report Cards - Realtor.com Freedom in the 50 States: An Index of Personal and Economic Freedom - CATO Institute Margaret Mead’s work and quotes on collective action - Goodreads West Virginia health care ranked worst in the nation - Ellen Allen, West Virginia Watch Pieces on burnout, nihilism, and resilience in political organizing BUY. IF YOU MUST Planned Parenthood Marketplace Toilet paper (apparently still emotionally charged) Co-Op Supply Snohomish County *Books instead of things *Secondhand or cooperative goods LEARN MORE Introduction to the Property Tax–School Funding Connection - Lincoln Institute of Land Policy Rural and Urban Health - Georgetown University, Health Policy Institute How abortion laws vary by state - Guttmacher Ethical Considerations in Real Estate Investing Red States Are Losing Their Housing Edge - City Journal Community Organizing 101: How to Start a Social Movement - Marta Brzosko

Stadiums, Soccer & Late-Stage Capitalism

Keith Macaulay joins Emily in Everett for a wide-ranging, slightly unhinged (in a good way) conversation about sports, money, vibes, and why fan culture actually matters. From soccer chants and Mariners loyalty to NIL chaos, stadium politics, FIFA corruption, and the economics behind who wins (and who tanks), this episode connects the dots between sports, power, and civic life with strong opinions, petty moments, and plenty of sir sass. READ Ex-Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels: Sonics were gone ‘the day they were sold’ - The Seattle Times Everett Forges Ahead with Downtown Stadium for Minor League Sports - The Urbanist FIFA president Gianni Infantino accused of rules breach over Trump - ESPN Analysis of MLS revenue sharing and league structure Pieces on sportswashing and global soccer politics - Journal on Democracy LISTEN Um, Sir Podcast Copa90 (soccer fan culture + documentaries) Stephen A. Smith is Ruining Sports Television - YouTube WATCH Seattle City Council sells out the SuperSonics - Sonicsgate, YouTube Who Killed the Expos? (documentary on the Montreal Expos relocation) Ted Lasso (Apple TV — debated heavily, not endorsed 😅) Club de Cuervos (Netflix, Spanish-language soccer drama, strongly recommended) MLS matches (if you already have Apple TV… sorry) CHECK OUT The Snohomish Podcast Network Snohomish United FC (men’s & upcoming women’s teams) Everett AquaSox Everett Silver Tips (WHL) Portland Timbers Ballard FC / Salmon Bay FC BUY. IF YOU MUST Cowbells (for vibes, not apologies) LEARN MORE NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) - NCAA Outdoor Event Center - City of Everett

Um, Civics: FIFA 2026 and the Politics Behind the Pitch

Emily is joined by Washington State Rep. Julio Cortes for an Um, Civics crash course on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, what it means for Everett and Washington State, and how government actually prepares for global events. They also dig into banning masked law enforcement interactions, protecting immigrant families, fixing Washington’s upside-down tax code, and what to expect from a tough legislative session ahead. Civics, but make it accessible. CHECK OUT Snohomish County Podcast Network WATCH Participation trophies have gone too far! - The Late Show with Stephen Colbert 2026 FIFA World Cup Final Draw | Full Show | FOX Soccer Seattle prepares to share World Cup 2026 spotlight with 9 Washington fan zone cities - KOMO 4 News READ Pride Match - Egypt Vs. Iran - Instagram FIFA — 2026 World Cup structure, host cities, teams Washington State Welcomes the World: A Breakdown to FIFA World Cup 2026™ Fan Zones - Seattle Ballooning Washington State Legislature -Legislative session info & bill tracking Seattle Pride Statement on the FIFA World Cup SB 5855 (Washington State) - Bill banning face-concealing coverings for law enforcement California Masked Law Enforcement Law - Court case & precedent referenced Family Separation Rapid Response Team -WA Department of Children, Yout,h and Families Ferguson backs income tax on WA residents earning over $1M - Washington State Standard Funding Public Good through Progressive Tax Reform - Economic Opportunity Institute FIFA World Cup 2026 Economic Impact $929+ Million Projected - Seattle Sports Commission BUY. IF YOU MUST US Soccer Pride Kit Airbnb and FIFA announce major multi-tournament LEARN MORE Snohomish United Soccer Regressive vs. Proportional vs. Progressive Taxes: An Overview - Investopedia Legislative Session Hearings - TVW How the Washington State Budget Works — Washington State Fiscal Information Washington State Legislature Guide to Lawmaking Law Enforcement Transparency Laws — Mask bans, identification requirements Immigration Casework Support — How legislators & congressional offices help constituents How to Contact Your Washington State Legislators 38th Legislative District, Marysville, Tulalip, and Everett, Senator June Robinson, Representative Julio Cortes & Representative Mary Fosse Fan Zones Explained — Reddit

Um, Civics: Vision, Traction, and Getting the Bag

This week on Um, Sir, we’re joined by Matt Hansen, EOS implementer, mountain enthusiast, inventor with nine patents, and a genuinely thoughtful guide to how systems actually work. We talk Cascades hikes, Patagonia’s values vs. capitalism tension, Washington’s upcoming tax fights, and what it really takes to build something with intention. Matt helps us connect business frameworks to civic life, while we ask the eternal question: how do you stay values-driven and get the bag? Civics, leadership, business, money, and meaning, in one episode. Welcome to be here. Guest Convo Links Matt Hansen, EOS Worldwide Implementer North Cascade Institute - Washington Hikes Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business - ThriftBooks Cutthroat Pass via the Pacific Crest Trail - Washington Trails Association Mount Pilchuck - Washington Trails Association Kendall Katwalk - Washington Trails Association Mountain Loop General Store - Verlot, Washington Patagonia Work in Progress Report Patagonia - Store Civics Update: State Legislature Representative Shaun Scott - Washington State Legislature Tech for Taxes - Instagram Tech companies are abusing tax policy to scam us out of money our state needs to fund critical social services - Tech 4 Taxes Instgram Rep. Shaun Scott Unveils “Well Washington Fund,” a Progressive Payroll Excise Tax to Protect Washington Families from Trump’s Austerity Budget - Washington State Democrats Senator Rebecca Saldaña Maps Out Legislative Priorities for 2026 Session - Hacks & Wonks Podcast WA Democrats’ latest run at taxing the state’s largest companies - Jerry Cornfield, Washington State Standard Invest WA Now State Budget & Revenue - Washington Budget & Policy Center Other Links Burkett's Boutique - Everett, Washington Snohomish Podcast Network - Join Red Trux - Audio & Video Services

Sh*t Storms & Sweater Weather

This week on Um, Sir, the world is still on fire, and Trump, tariffs, tire factories, and meat mail all made the same episode. Samie and Emily kick things off with Trump spending Thanksgiving tossing around the R-word like a stale dinner roll, while simultaneously dismantling the Department of Education like it’s a Black Friday doorbuster. Meanwhile, Boy Scouts and immigrant truckers are suddenly on the GOP’s hit list; Everett Public Schools is bracing for a LifeWise lawsuit; AI is getting creepier; Charlie’s tail survives; and tire shopping becomes a political crisis. Oh, and Emily soft-launches her 2040 presidential campaign and wants to know when her Costco tariff check is coming. TONIGHT! Podcast Network Mixer | Wed. Dec. 10 | Rustic Cork Mill Creek FOLLOW US @UmSirPod Instagram @umsirpod TikTok TEST YOURSELF Can you spot AI videos from real ones? - NPR LISTEN New moves to dismantle the Education Department raise legal questions - NPR Trump administration shares plan to dismantle more of the Department of Education - NPR Documents show Pentagon preparing to sever ties with Scouting - NPR Pete Hegseth is a F******* Douch - TikTok The DOT says it wants to make trucking safer, but some see an 'immigration raid' - NPR WATCH Wrap the Epstein Files Around Your Tree - The Daily Show, Facebook Rep. Massie Voices Concerns Over Trump and Epstein Files - TikTok Religious group threatens to sue Everett School District over access restrictions - KIRO 7 News Seattle READ Comments from the National Down Syndrome Society - Instagram Nursing Excluded as 'Professional' Degree By Department of Education - Nurse.Org Nursing programs excluded from 'professional degree' status under new federal loan rules. Here's what would change - KING 5 WA becomes third state to allow punishment for 'stealthing' - KOMO News New law criminalizes disclosure of AI-generated sexual images, videos - Cascadia Quit Clicking Kids Legislation - Latest Washington Updates Hope Walz: Trump slur against father unleashed ‘s‑‑‑storm’ toward family - The Hill Australia's first ‘sexting’ laws have been introduced with those found guilty of distributing naked pictures without consent facing TWO YEARS in jail - The Daily Mail IF YOU HAVE TO BUY Les Schwab Tires Shop Red Bag The Little Blue Cart

Um, Civics: Arizona — Exporting Copper and Crazy

Emily returns from Arizona with a suitcase full of political chaos and sunscreen residue, and Samie settles in to hear all about it. From right-to-work headaches to a legislature held together by vibes, Emily breaks down Arizona’s wild policy landscape, including their billion-dollar school voucher fiasco (yes, someone bought lingerie with public education money). They also reintroduce themselves to new listeners, one recovering legislator, one recovering drug addict, both firmly at D-list celebrity status, and remind everyone why Um, Sir and Um, Civics exist: to make government make sense without making anyone feel stupid. It’s Arizona politics, the five C’s, and more sass than their incumbent Mine Inspector deserved. Follow Us @UmSirPod Instagram @umsirpod TikTok RSVP Podcast Mixer | Snohomish Podcasts Network Wed. Dec. 10 | Rustic Cork Mill Creek - Wear your Sweaters (Cute or Ugly!) Listen Curmudgeon’s Corner Podcast At-homish Podcast Storytelling in a Small Town Podcast Snohomish County Storytellers Podcast Check Out Washington Institute for a Democratic Future Black Lives Matter Phoenix Metro Arizona Governor’s Office of Budget & Strategic Planning Arizona Education Association Aliento AZ Resilient Strategies Freedom to Learn Foundation Intersection Government Relations Arizona Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee Snohomish County Podcast Network Shasti Conrad, Meet the Chair of the Washington State Democratic Party Arizona Democratic Party Elects Charlene Fernandez as Chair - AZ Dems Arizona State Legislature AZ Visit Overview - Instagram AZ Visit Day 1 - Instagram AZ Visit, Day 2- Instagram Watch WAIDF Election Recap Post - Instagram WAIDF Election Recap Post - Instagram Read Katie Wilson’s Path to Election Victory, Precinct by Precinct - The Urbanist 'I'll be cheering for him': Takeaways from Trump and Mamdani's surprisingly cordial meeting - BBC The Arizona Cardinals are 0-5 since they hosted the Charlie Kirk Memorial Event at State Farm Stadium - Reddit Bill Pierce for AZ Mine Inspector - Facebook Joe Hart prevails in Arizona mine inspector race - AZ Central Arizona Faces Sweeping Budget Cuts, Driven by Flat Tax and Private School Vouchers - Arizona Center on Budget and Policy Priorities AZ school voucher expansion draws fire over fraud allegations, cost concerns - FOX 10 How students are faring in Arizona’s voucher program that could be adopted nationwide - PBS Arizona school voucher program ignored state audit law for nearly a year, officials say - AZ Mirror ESA parents bought diamond rings, lingerie, and Kenmore appliances with education tax dollars - NBC 12 News Phoenix sees sharp rise in police shootings since Trump DOJ ended oversight in May - Cronkite News Phoenix police routinely used excessive force and violated civil rights, DOJ says - PBS News

Chaos, Crocs, Cadavers & Corruption

RELEASE THE FILES! Wait… WHAT?! Emily and Samie break down a wild week in politics and life. From MTG’s surprise resignation to the newly released Epstein emails implicating major political players. They roast Trump’s fantasy “$2,000 tariff checks,” dive into hidden million-dollar payouts for GOP senators, and react to a federal move letting foster parents misgender kids. Between political chaos, cadaver dogs in Snohomish, quitting nicotine, and free Crocs, the hosts bring their signature mix of snark, outrage, and “we’re just trying to survive this timeline.” Join Us Podcast Network Mixer | Wed. Dec. 10 | Rustic Cork Mill Creek Snohomish County Podcast Network Check Out Snohomish Walks Dog's Devotion: True Adventures of a K9 Search and Rescue Team, By James Guy Mansfield and Suzanne Elshult - Thrift Books Rick Steves Europe - A Symphonic Journey Gregg Olsen Books Please Don’t Buy Crocs Echo Clogs Sandals Sport Mode Aloe Green - eBay Watch Marjorie Taylor Greene Resigns, Sky News - TikTok But Her Emails!! NINE Years AGO!, Face the Nation - YouTube President Donald Trump reacted strongly after ABC News reporter Mary Bruce asked him about files - NBC News Republican Congresswoman Virginia Foxx (N.C.) got furious, Independent - TikTok Rep. McGovern slammed his GOP colleagues, saying he hopes they enjoyed their "8-week vacation" - Courier News Room, TikTok A hidden clause in the government shutdown bill could give 8 senators at least $1M each | king5.com Men are Natural Leaders, Eli Rallo - TikTok Conde Nast Restructuring, Lexi McMenamin - TikTok Read The Emails - The New York Times The only 'no' vote on releasing Epstein files - BBC Nobody's Girl - A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice, By Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Penguin Random House Supreme Court declines to revisit gay marriage decision - NPR U.S. Coast Guard will no longer classify swastikas, nooses as hate symbols - Washington Post Federal memo: foster parents free to misgender at will - The Seattle Times New DNA Analysis Reveals Hitler May Have Had a Micropenis - The Daily Beast Trump floats tariff 'dividends' even while plan shows major flaws - NPR Who has President Trump pardoned and why? - NPR Random Swiss billionaire Ernesto Bertarelli Listen Curmudgeon’s Corner