With the evolving political dynamics in Texas, former Congressman Colin Allred has made a significant decision to run for the newly drawn 33rd Congressional District. In a recent interview, Allred discussed the impact of redistricting, pointing out how gerrymandering has disenfranchised many voters, particularly in communities of color. This shifting landscape has fueled several candidacies, including his own, as candidates adapt to these changes to ensure representation for diverse communities. Allred's journey from the NFL to Congress highlights his dedication to public service, believing deeply in the power of community and representation. 

While reflecting on past campaigns, Allred envisions a future where policy changes improve the lives of working-class Texans, offering them a fair chance to succeed. With reassurance in his campaign, Allred remains determined to be a strong advocate for his constituents, aiming to bring meaningful change to the political arena while restoring power to the people.

With the <a href="https://www.texastribune.org/2025/12/08/colin-allred-drops-out-senate-democratic-primary-congress-33rd-district-dallas/">evolving political dynamics in Texas</a>, former Congressman Colin Allred has made a significant decision to run for the newly drawn 33rd Congressional District. In a recent interview, Allred discussed the impact of redistricting, pointing out how gerrymandering has disenfranchised many voters, particularly in communities of color. This shifting landscape has fueled several candidacies, including his own, as candidates adapt to these changes to ensure representation for diverse communities. Allred's journey from the NFL to Congress highlights his dedication to public service, believing deeply in the power of community and representation.&nbsp;
While reflecting on past campaigns,<a href="https://colinallred.com/"> Allred envisions a future </a>where policy changes improve the lives of working-class Texans, offering them a fair chance to succeed. With reassurance in his campaign, Allred remains determined to be a strong advocate for his constituents, aiming to bring meaningful change to the political arena while restoring power to the people.

Colin Allred on Navigating Texas' Political Landscape

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/8ff9b3f9-bdd7-4497-8f94-b3bb0108e566/transcript

Intros

Flanagan's Candidacy for the Senate

Trump's Big Beautiful Bill

Flanagan's Story

Minnesota's Second Gentleman

Flanagan's Platform

What Voters Care About

Lieutenant Governor Flanagan

Pork Chop on a Stick

Going to Rural Minnesota

Governor Walz

The Campaign Trail

Why Not Run for Governor?

Follow Flanagan, Hot Dish, and more

In this episode, Peggy Flanagan, the Lieutenant Governor of Minnesota, discusses her candidacy for the United States Senate. She highlights her vision for improving affordability and healthcare, rooted in her personal experiences with Section 8 housing, SNAP, and Medicaid.

Learn more about Peggy Flanagan’s policy plans: https://peggyflanagan.com/

And keep up with Knowa on social @knowadebaraso.

In this episode, Peggy Flanagan, the Lieutenant Governor of Minnesota, discusses her candidacy for the United States Senate. She highlights her vision for improving affordability and healthcare, rooted in her personal experiences with Section 8 housing, SNAP, and Medicaid.
Learn more about Peggy Flanagan&rsquo;s policy plans: <a href="https://peggyflanagan.com/">https://peggyflanagan.com/</a>
And keep up with Knowa on social @knowadebaraso.

Peggy Flanagan on Affordable Living and A Senate Seat

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/e0ff2632-759b-4e00-8e0f-b3ae0179e6bd/transcript

Criminal Justice Series Introduction

Classroom to Courtroom Pipeline

Fulton County Jail Funding Issues

Community Service and High-Profile Cases

Trump's Mugshot and Security Measures

Wrongful Convictions and Cash Bail Debate

Opportunities for Improvement in the Justice S

High Profile Inmates

In this episode, Knowa sits down with Fulton County Sheriff Pat Labat of Atlanta, Georgia — the man behind some of the most viral moments in modern criminal justice, from former President Trump’s mugshot to the celebrity cases cycling through Fulton County Jail. Building on Knowa’s growing curiosity about criminal justice reform, the conversation revisits last episode’s look at the Young Thug case and expands on how high-profile arrests shape — and often distort — the public’s understanding of the system.

Sheriff Labat then pulls back the curtain on what the headlines miss: chronic underfunding from the Fulton County Commission, overcrowding, staffing shortages, and bottlenecks created when judges, public defenders, and district attorneys don’t have the resources they need. He explains why the spectacle gets all the attention, but the systemic imbalance causes the real harm.

The conversation also dives into the impact of no-cash bail, the importance of strong legal representation, and the human cost of long pretrial waits — told through Sheriff Labat’s experience and Knowa’s evolving lens on justice, culture, and civic responsibility.

✉️ Send In Your Questions

Have a question or something you want Knowa to break down on the show?
Send your thoughts to Knowa @knowadebaraso on all platforms and your questions may appear in an upcoming episode.

In this episode, Knowa sits down with Fulton County Sheriff Pat Labat of Atlanta, Georgia &mdash; the man behind some of the most viral moments in modern criminal justice, from former President Trump&rsquo;s mugshot to the celebrity cases cycling through Fulton County Jail. Building on Knowa&rsquo;s growing curiosity about criminal justice reform, the conversation revisits last episode&rsquo;s look at the Young Thug case and expands on how high-profile arrests shape &mdash; and often distort &mdash; the public&rsquo;s understanding of the system.
Sheriff Labat then pulls back the curtain on what the headlines miss: chronic underfunding from the Fulton County Commission, overcrowding, staffing shortages, and bottlenecks created when judges, public defenders, and district attorneys don&rsquo;t have the resources they need. He explains why the spectacle gets all the attention, but the systemic imbalance causes the real harm.
The conversation also dives into the impact of no-cash bail, the importance of strong legal representation, and the human cost of long pretrial waits &mdash; told through Sheriff Labat&rsquo;s experience and Knowa&rsquo;s evolving lens on justice, culture, and civic responsibility.
✉️ Send In Your Questions
Have a question or something you want Knowa to break down on the show? Send your thoughts to Knowa @knowadebaraso on all platforms and your questions may appear in an upcoming episode.

From Young Thug to Trump: The Story Inside Fulton County

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/5f31c648-4ba1-4df2-a757-b3a800f81450/transcript

With Thanksgiving approaching, Knowa frames the episode as a moment of reflection and responsibility: a time when many families gather, give thanks, and think about freedom—while thousands of people remain incarcerated pre-trial or wrongfully convicted. Lauren Bright Pacheco’s new season of Wrongful Conviction brings that tension into sharp focus, highlighting overlooked stories, investigative failures, and families who continue fighting through the holidays. 

From there, Knowa makes it clear he’s only scratching the surface. His curiosity is shifting toward how influencers amplifying cases or partnering with organizations like the Reform Alliance can shift public pressure toward policy change. 

Then, Fulton County Sheriff Patrick Labat breaks down why celebrity arrests at Fulton County Jail end up revealing the same systemic issues everyday residents face. When high-profile figures go through intake and publicly describe overcrowding, slow processing, or poor conditions, it draws rare national attention to problems that wrongfully convicted people and pre-trial detainees endure for far longer. Sheriff Labat uses these moments to contextualize the county’s ongoing challenges: insufficient funding, safer infrastructure, and the cascading impact of understaffing on jail conditions.

With Thanksgiving approaching, Knowa frames the episode as a moment of reflection and responsibility: a time when many families gather, give thanks, and think about freedom&mdash;while thousands of people remain incarcerated pre-trial or wrongfully convicted. Lauren Bright Pacheco&rsquo;s new season of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Ubjbkka_VZ0">Wrongful Conviction</a> brings that tension into sharp focus, highlighting overlooked stories, investigative failures, and families who continue fighting through the holidays.&nbsp;
From there, Knowa makes it clear he&rsquo;s only scratching the surface. His curiosity is shifting toward how influencers amplifying cases or partnering with organizations like the&nbsp;<a href="https://reformalliance.com/">Reform Alliance</a> can shift public pressure toward policy change.&nbsp;
Then, <a href="https://ballotpedia.org/Patrick_Labat">Fulton County Sheriff Patrick Labat</a> breaks down why celebrity arrests at Fulton County Jail end up revealing the same systemic issues everyday residents face. When high-profile figures go through intake and publicly describe overcrowding, slow processing, or poor conditions, it draws rare national attention to problems that wrongfully convicted people and pre-trial detainees endure for far longer. Sheriff Labat uses these moments to contextualize the county&rsquo;s ongoing challenges: insufficient funding, safer infrastructure, and the cascading impact of understaffing on jail conditions.

Lauren Bright Pacheco’s new season of Wrongful Conviction brings the tension of freedom, erasure and family into the spotlight.

Spotlight on Reform: Wrongful Convictions and a System Under Pressure

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/8b419548-10d3-4156-a031-b39c017b9d03/transcript

In this episode of the Now You Know "Meet the Candidates 2026 Midterm Series," this no-holds-barred conversation covers a wide range of topics, including Georgia gubernatorial candidate Representative Derrick Jackson's policy positions, and his thoughts on qualifications for leadership roles.

Jackson, a retired lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy and a corporate executive, emphasizes his commitment to family, rights, and military matters as key pillars of his platform. He also touches on his past legislative achievements, his vision for raising the minimum wage, and his plans to support small farmers and low-income families.

In this episode of the Now You Know "Meet the Candidates 2026 Midterm Series," this no-holds-barred conversation covers a wide range of topics, including Georgia gubernatorial candidate <a href="https://www.votederrickjackson.org/">Representative Derrick Jackson's</a> policy positions, and his thoughts on qualifications for leadership roles.
Jackson, a retired lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy and a corporate executive, emphasizes his commitment to family, rights, and military matters as key pillars of his platform. He also touches on his past legislative achievements, his vision for raising the minimum wage, and his plans to support small farmers and low-income families.

Rep. Derrick Jackson shares his past legislative achievements, his vision for raising the minimum wage, and his plans to support small farmers and low-income families.

Derrick Jackson: Unfiltered and Committed to Family

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/25974e8e-0524-49d5-b18c-b39a0071aaf3/transcript

As millions of Americans rethink their political identity, former Georgia Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan has made his own bold move — leaving the GOP to run for Governor of Georgia as a Democrat.

In this episode of the Now You Know  "Meet the Candidates 2026 Midterm Series," Knowa sits down with the candidate for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about his political transformation, his policy priorities, and the future of Georgia politics.

Duncan talks about his thoughts on identity politics, DEI, the future of bipartisanship, and also opens up about his family, and why “doing the right thing” has become their guiding motto.

As millions of Americans rethink their political identity, former Georgia Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan has made his own bold move &mdash; leaving the GOP to <a href="https://www.duncanforgeorgia.com/">run for Governor of Georgia as a Democrat.</a>
In this episode of the Now You Know&nbsp; "Meet the Candidates 2026 Midterm Series," Knowa sits down with the candidate for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about <a href="https://www.ajc.com/politics/2025/10/geoff-duncans-democratic-gamble-in-georgia-tests-party-loyalty/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">his political transformation,</a> his policy priorities, and the future of Georgia politics.
Duncan talks about his thoughts on identity politics, DEI, the future of bipartisanship, and also opens up about his family, and why &ldquo;doing the right thing&rdquo; has become their guiding motto.

Geoff Duncan trades party lines for purpose — can he reshape Georgia’s political future?

Geoff Duncan: Beyond Party Lines, Toward a United Future

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/9d21f7ef-2bfe-4d01-93a1-b39400af5388/transcript

Knowa sits down with Karine Jean-Pierre, former White House Press Secretary and author of the new book Independent: A Look Inside a Broken White House, Outside the Party Lines.

In this thoughtful conversation, Karine reflects on her years behind the podium, the state of political leadership today, and the personal cost of navigating loyalty, identity, and integrity in public life.

Together, they explore what it means to speak truth from within the system — and what it takes to keep your independence when the spotlight fades.

Knowa sits down with Karine Jean-Pierre, former White House Press Secretary and author of the new book Independent: A Look Inside a Broken White House, Outside the Party Lines.
In this thoughtful conversation, Karine reflects on her years behind the podium, the state of political leadership today, and the personal cost of navigating loyalty, identity, and integrity in public life.
Together, they explore what it means to speak truth from within the system &mdash; and what it takes to keep your independence when the spotlight fades.

Karine Jean-Pierre: Inside ‘Independent — A Look Inside a Broken White House, Outside the Party Lines'

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/9510e3c0-1375-4ecd-b34f-b38c004858f6/transcript

Senator Estevez's Background and Achievements

Caregiving and Senior Care Policies

Federal Government Challenges and State Soluti

Building Coalitions and Legislative Strategies

Education and Apprenticeship Programs

Campaign Strategy and Resignation

Tax Policies and Economic Plans

Evaluating Political Opponents

Building a Winning Coalition

Campaigning Across Georgia

Endorsements and Support

Addressing Maternal Mortality and Abortion Ban

Mental Health and Social Media Impact

In this special first installment of Now You Know's "Meet The Candidates 2026 Midterm Series," Knowa welcomes gubernatorial candidate Jason Esteves. Esteves discusses his intentions and plans for alleviating the struggles faced by caregivers and seniors in Georgia, critiquing the current administration's shortcomings. He touches on expanding Medicaid, creating a dedicated agency for aging, and forming coalitions to navigate Republican opposition. He also highlights his record of delivering results on the Atlanta School Board and in the State Senate. The discussion spans endorsement strategies, mental health, and the need for new generational leadership. Esteves emphasizes his commitment to transparency and accountability, setting him apart from his opponents. 

In this special first installment of Now You Know's "Meet The Candidates 2026 Midterm Series," Knowa welcomes gubernatorial candidate Jason&nbsp;Esteves. Esteves discusses his intentions and plans for alleviating the struggles faced by caregivers and seniors in Georgia, critiquing the current administration's shortcomings. He touches on expanding Medicaid, creating a dedicated agency for aging, and forming coalitions to navigate Republican opposition. He also highlights his record of delivering results on the Atlanta School Board and in the State Senate. The discussion spans endorsement strategies, mental health, and the need for new generational leadership. Esteves emphasizes his commitment to transparency and accountability, setting him apart from his opponents.&nbsp;

Jason Esteves: Building a Coalition for Georgia's Future

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/1c08e436-1e78-4eba-8da9-b380014cc7f9/transcript

In this episode of Now You Know with Knowa de Baraso, Congressman Bennie Thompson — and one of Mississippi’s most influential political leaders — sits down with Knowa for a conversation about America’s democracy, the legacy of January 6th, and what it means to lead with integrity in turbulent times.

From his one-block hometown ofBolton, Mississippi, Congressman Thompson reflects on his journey from city council to Congress, the moment he realized Donald Trump was “weaponizing” the National Guard, and the lessons he wants young voters to carry forward in 2025 and beyond.

Knowa and Congressman Thompson also dive into Mississippi’s racial history, DC statehood, ICE raids, and how misinformation continues to threaten truth and justice.

This episode is part history lesson, part real talk, and all heart — a conversation between generations about how to protect democracy, tell the truth, and still have faith in America.

In this episode of Now You Know with Knowa de Baraso, Congressman Bennie Thompson &mdash; and one of Mississippi&rsquo;s most influential political leaders &mdash; sits down with Knowa for a conversation about America&rsquo;s democracy, the legacy of January 6th, and what it means to lead with integrity in turbulent times.
From his one-block hometown of Bolton, Mississippi, Congressman Thompson reflects on his journey from city council to Congress, the moment he realized Donald Trump was &ldquo;weaponizing&rdquo; the National Guard, and the lessons he wants young voters to carry forward in 2025 and beyond.
Knowa and Congressman Thompson also dive into Mississippi&rsquo;s racial history, DC statehood, ICE raids, and how misinformation continues to threaten truth and justice.
This episode is part history lesson, part real talk, and all heart &mdash; a conversation between generations about how to protect democracy, tell the truth, and still have faith in America.

Congressman Bennie Thompson on the Fight for Tomorrow

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/7cda98a4-fd3f-4d23-86e2-b37e00e528cd/transcript

Knowa is joined by the dynamic hosts of Native Land Pod — Angela Rye, Andrew Gillum, and Tiffany Cross — for a conversation about the current political landscape, the culture of truth-telling in media, and what it takes to lead with integrity. Part of the Reasoned Choice Media family of political shows, this episode brings together sharp minds, fearless voices, and a shared commitment to reasoned dialogue and accountability in the public square. 

Check out more from Native Land Pod on YouTube!

Knowa is joined by the dynamic hosts of&nbsp;<a href="http://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/native-land-pod/id1724078118">Native Land Pod</a>&nbsp;&mdash; Angela Rye, Andrew Gillum, and Tiffany Cross &mdash; for a conversation about the current political landscape, the culture of truth-telling in media, and what it takes to lead with integrity. Part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iheartmedia.com/press/iheartpodcasts-and-reasoned-choice-media-debut-new-gen-z-podcast-now-you-know-knowa-de-baraso">Reasoned Choice Media</a> family of political shows, this episode brings together sharp minds, fearless voices, and a shared commitment to reasoned dialogue and accountability in the public square.&nbsp;
Check out more from Native Land Pod on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/nRzzPRV7A1o">YouTube!</a>

Native Land Pod on Power, Politics, and Perspective

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/1d4edbf7-2bee-4a15-8ab4-b376013d358a/transcript

What happens when a 14-year-old asks the questions grown folks can’t—or won’t? Now You Know with Knowa De Baraso is a sharp, funny, and fearless podcast that cuts through the noise of politics, pop culture, and power. Each week, Knowa sits down with the people shaping the world—from movement leaders to cultural icons—to get real about democracy, justice, joy, and what it means to grow up in America right now. With curiosity, wit, and a side-eye when needed, Knowa leads conversations that challenge the status quo and center the voices too often left out.

Now You Know with Knowa De Baraso isn’t just about politics—it’s about power, platforms, and the people using both to influence our future.

What happens when a 14-year-old asks the questions grown folks can&rsquo;t&mdash;or won&rsquo;t?&nbsp;Now You Know with Knowa De Baraso is a sharp, funny, and fearless podcast that cuts through the noise of politics, pop culture, and power. Each week, Knowa sits down with the people shaping the world&mdash;from movement leaders to cultural icons&mdash;to get real about democracy, justice, joy, and what it means to grow up in America right now. With curiosity, wit, and a side-eye when needed, Knowa leads conversations that challenge the status quo and center the voices too often left out.
Now You Know with Knowa De Baraso isn&rsquo;t just about politics&mdash;it&rsquo;s about power, platforms, and the people using both to influence our future.

Now You Know with Knowa De Baraso

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