Politically Speaking
Hosted by Erica Sampson and Kirsten Pruitt and Emily Mayer · Sampson, Mayer and Pruitt
5.0from 1 ratings
- 15
- Episodes
- 1
- Ratings
- 2025
- First episode
- 127K
- YouTube views
About Politically Speaking
"Politically Speaking" is a bold and engaging podcast hosted by three progressive young Democrats who break down the latest political news, challenge the status quo, and amplify voices for change. With sharp analysis, candid conversations, and a dash of humor, they tackle the issues that matter most—from policy and elections to activism and social justice. Tune in for fresh perspectives, fearless discussions, and a progressive take on the future of politics.
- Publisher
- Sampson, Mayer and Pruitt
- Category
- education · government · news
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 10 Mar 2025
- Latest episode
- 22 Jun 2026
Latest episodes
15 episodes in the feed.
22 Jun 2026
Redistricting, Black Candidates & SC Primary Surprises
Emily Mayer is joined by Kirsten Pruitt and Erica Sampson for a sharp, informed breakdown of South Carolina's recent primary elections — what the results mean, what surprised them, and what it all signals heading into November. The panel opens with a review of the most striking outcomes, including Nancy Mace finishing fifth — a result Emily calls "a happy surprise" — and Jermaine Johnson's commanding 59% victory, which exceeded even optimistic expectations. The conversation digs into what drove these outcomes, from early voting dynamics and redistricting impacts to candidate visibility and grassroots organizing versus traditional fundraising. One of the episode's central themes is representation. The panel celebrates record turnout among Black voters and the success of Black candidates across the ballot, exploring what that means for the future of South Carolina politics and why authentic community engagement matters more than a well-funded campaign. The discussion around electability is nuanced and honest — the panel pushes back on the idea that qualifications alone determine viability, and examines how social media is reshaping candidate visibility and voter perception in real time. The conversation turns to November with a note of grounded realism. Midterm enthusiasm tends to fade, and the panel explores what candidates and campaigns need to do right now to sustain momentum, close communication gaps, and keep voters educated and engaged through election day. This is the kind of political analysis South Carolina voters need — grounded, community-focused, and unafraid to call surprises what they are. Topics Covered: Primary election results and the biggest surprises Nancy Mace's fifth place finish and what it signals Jermaine Johnson's 59% victory and community impact Early voting trends and redistricting effects on candidate visibility Record turnout and Black candidate success across the ballot Grassroots organizing vs. fundraising in modern campaigns Social media's role in shaping voter perception Campaign communication challenges and voter education Expectations and strategy heading into November Linktr.ee | Politically Speaking (https://linktr.ee/politicallyspeakingsc) Thanks for listening! Please Subscribe, drop a review and consider giving us 5 Stars! Follow us across social media via our Linktr.ee (https://Linktr.ee/politicallyspeakingsc)! You can also follow us; Kirsten Pruitt (https://www.instagram.com/kirstenmd813/), Emily Mayer (https://www.instagram.com/emilymayersc/) and Erica Sampson (https://www.instagram.com/therealericasampson/)! To watch our episodes, visit our YouTube Channel (https://youtube.com/@politicallyspeakingsc)! This episode is produced and engineered by Barrett Gruber (https://linktr.ee/barrettgruber), of BIG Media LLC (https://bigmediallc.com)! Please also check out our #PartnerPodcasts. Zac and Barrett host The All About Nothing: Podcast (https://theallaboutnothing.com)! Zac and Barrett host What The Pod Was That (https://whatthepodwasthat.com) with Cari Simmons, available everywhere you listen to podcasts. Check out a deep dive down the rabbit hole with Amii on the pod, Welcome to Wonder Land (https://wtwlpod.com), available everywhere you listen to podcasts. Also check out Black White and Blue In the South (https://linktr.ee/bwabits), With Dr. Jumelle Brooks and Bill Kimler! Make sure to head over to The Preach Jacobs Podcast (https://the-preach-jacobs-podcast.captivate.fm/) with Preach Jacobs! Check out our latest addition to BIG Media LLC, The Awakening Podcast (https://the-awakening-podcast.captivate.fm/) with Heather and Tamara! Music from #Uppbeat; "Suss" performed by Bosnow; https://uppbeat.io/t/bosnow/suss (https://uppbeat.io/t/bosnow/suss) License code: LFOVRJZEGYVLTXCK If you like what you here, check out other great pods on the BIG Media LLC (https://bigmediallc.com/) Podcast Network! Barrett (https://linktr.ee/barrettgruber) and Zac (https://linktr.ee/aanzac) host The All About Nothing: Podcast (https://theallaboutnothing.com/), discussing everything from news and politics to entertainment and sports! All About Nothing, but All About Something too! Zac (https://linktr.ee/aanzac) and Barrett (https://linktr.ee/barrettgruber) host What The Pod Was That (https://whatthepodwasthat.com/) with Cari Simmons (https://twitter.com/cari_simmons), available everywhere you listen to podcasts. Take a deep dive down the rabbit hole with Amii (https://twitter.com/chicamii) on the pod Welcome to Wonder Land (https://wtwlpod.com/). Check out Black White and Blue In the South (https://blackwhitebluesouth.captivate.fm/), With Dr. Jamelle Brooks and Bill Kimler! The Preach Jacobs Podcast (https://the-preach-jacobs-podcast.captivate.fm/) is hosted by Columbia Best Hip Hop Artist and Best DJ, Preach Jacobs! All of these fantastic podcasts can be found on the BIG Media LLC (https://bigmediallc.com/) Podcast Network! Mentioned in this episode: BIG Media LLC Copyright 2026 BIG Media LLC (https://politically-speaking.captivate.fm/bigmediallc)
9 Feb 2026
SC’s Shocking Abortion Bill, Vaccine Myths & The Black Voter Disconnect
In the long-awaited return of Politically Speaking, Erica Sampson, Emily Mayer, and Kirsten Pruitt reunite to break down the "Where am I?" moments of 2026. The episode dives deep into the South Carolina State House, starting with the "shocking" new abortion bill and the legislative hypocrisy found in the latest Parental Rights discussions. The hosts don't shy away from the hard stuff—critiquing the surge of vaccine misinformation amid a measles outbreak and the failures in healthcare education across the state. Beyond the bills, the conversation turns to the heart of the 2026 cycle: voter engagement. Kirsten highlights the recurring disconnect between politicians and the Black community, arguing that year-round relationship building must replace the "last-minute" outreach seen in previous cycles. From Black History Month reflections to a debate on economic commentary, this episode is a call for leadership that respects the lived experiences of all constituents. Key Topics: #SCPolitics2026 #AbortionRightsSC #BlackVoterEngagement #WomenInPolitics #VaccineEducation #ParentalRights #BlackHistoryMonth #PoliticallySpeaking #SampsonMayerPruitt Thanks for listening! Please Subscribe, drop a review and consider giving us 5 Stars! Follow us across social media via our Linktr.ee (https://Linktr.ee/politicallyspeakingsc)! You can also follow us; Kirsten Pruitt (https://www.instagram.com/kirstenmd813/), Emily Mayer (https://www.instagram.com/emilymayersc/) and Erica Sampson (https://www.instagram.com/therealericasampson/)! To watch our episodes, visit our YouTube Channel (https://youtube.com/@politicallyspeakingsc)! This episode is produced and engineered by Barrett Gruber (https://linktr.ee/barrettgruber), of BIG Media LLC (https://bigmediallc.com)! Please also check out our #PartnerPodcasts. Zac and Barrett host The All About Nothing: Podcast (https://theallaboutnothing.com)! Zac and Barrett host What The Pod Was That (https://whatthepodwasthat.com) with Cari Simmons, available everywhere you listen to podcasts. Check out a deep dive down the rabbit hole with Amii on the pod, Welcome to Wonder Land (https://wtwlpod.com), available everywhere you listen to podcasts. Also check out Black White and Blue In the South (https://linktr.ee/bwabits), With Dr. Jumelle Brooks and Bill Kimler! Make sure to head over to The Preach Jacobs Podcast (https://the-preach-jacobs-podcast.captivate.fm/) with Preach Jacobs! Check out our latest addition to BIG Media LLC, The Awakening Podcast (https://the-awakening-podcast.captivate.fm/) with Heather and Tamara! Music from #Uppbeat; "Suss" performed by Bosnow; https://uppbeat.io/t/bosnow/suss (https://uppbeat.io/t/bosnow/suss) License code: LFOVRJZEGYVLTXCK If you like what you here, check out other great pods on the BIG Media LLC (https://bigmediallc.com/) Podcast Network! <a
10 Nov 2025
The Power of Local Elections
Hosts Erica Sampson and Kirsten Pruitt interview Ryan Stephens about the impact of local elections, South Carolina's education system challenges, and the school choice debate, emphasizing community engagement.
6 Oct 2025
The Role of the South Carolina Democratic Party; Guest Jay Parmley
Erica Sampson and Kirsten Pruitt interview Jay Parmley, executive director of the South Carolina Democratic Party, about the party's current state, community engagement, and the impact of government shutdowns.
22 Sept 2025
Local Voices and Big Issues; Candidate, Tina Belge and Young Democrat, Kyle Brantley!
Greenville City Council candidate Tina Belge and activist Kyle Brantley discuss representation in local government, affordable housing, and political violence with hosts Erica Sampson and Kirsten Pruitt in an interview.
8 Sept 2025
Milestones and Movements: Youth, Guns, and Political Theater
Co-hosts Erica Sampson and Kirsten Pruitt interview Anderson Clayton, chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, discussing youth engagement, gun violence, and political theater.
25 Aug 2025
Government Accountability in Disaster Response
Hosts Erica Sampson and Kirsten Pruitt interview Justin Smith about government accountability in disaster response and historical awareness.
11 Aug 2025
Redistricting and Its Consequences
Hosts Erica Sampson, Emily Mayer, and Kirsten Pruitt explore redistricting's impact on Texas midterms and campaign fundraising strategies in this interview.
28 Jul 2025
Beneath the Surface: Politics, Privilege & Public Outcry
Hosts Erica Sampson, Emily Mayer, and Kirsten Pruitt examine political figures, South Carolina's role in primaries, and the Epstein files, revealing complexities in political discourse and public perception.
23 Jun 2025
The Weight of Political Violence
Hosts Erica Sampson, Emily Mayer, and Kirsten Pruitt examine political violence, Supreme Court rulings, and international conflicts, highlighting the need for community activism.
4 Jun 2025
Beyond the Speeches: Politics, Fish, and Democrats
Hosts Erica Sampson, Emily Mayer, and Kirsten Pruitt recount attending the South Carolina Democratic Party Convention and Jim Clyburn's fish fry, emphasizing community, networking, and personal connections in politics.
5 May 2025
Navigating the Complexities of DEI and Celebrating Educators
In this episode of Politically Speaking, the hosts discuss the importance of teachers during Teachers Appreciation Week, share personal stories about impactful educators, and delve into the current legislative landscape surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. They explore the implications of recent federal policies on DEI and engage in a fun segment of 'Two Truths and a Lie' related to DEI discussions. Thanks for listening! Please Subscribe, drop a review and consider giving us 5 Stars! Follow us across social media via our Linktr.ee (https://Linktr.ee/politicallyspeakingsc)! You can also follow us; Kirsten Pruitt (https://www.instagram.com/kirstenmd813/), Emily Mayer (https://www.instagram.com/emilymayersc/) and Erica Sampson (https://www.instagram.com/therealericasampson/)! To watch our episodes, visit our YouTube Channel (https://youtube.com/@politicallyspeakingsc)! This episode is produced and engineered by Barrett Gruber (https://linktr.ee/barrettgruber), of BIG Media LLC (https://barrettgruber.com)! Please also check out our #PartnerPodcasts. Zac and Barrett host The All About Nothing: Podcast (https://theallaboutnothing.com)! Zac and Barrett host What The Pod Was That (https://whatthepodwasthat.com) with Cari Simmons, available everywhere you listen to podcasts. Check out a deep dive down the rabbit hole with Amii on the pod, Welcome to Wonder Land (https://wtwlpod.com), available everywhere you listen to podcasts. Also check out Black White and Blue In the South (https://linktr.ee/bwabits), With Dr. Jumelle Brooks and Bill Kimler! Music from #Uppbeat; "Suss" performed by Bosnow; https://uppbeat.io/t/bosnow/suss (https://uppbeat.io/t/bosnow/suss) License code: LFOVRJZEGYVLTXCK Linktr.ee | Politically Speaking (https://linktr.ee/politicallyspeakingsc) Mentioned in this episode: BIG Media LLC Copyright 2025 "Politically Speaking" with Erica Sampson, Emily Mayer and Kirsten Pruitt is solely owned by Erica Sampson, Emily Mayer and Kirsten Pruitt, and is distributed by BIG Media LLC, Copyright 2025; all rights reserved. Visit https://barrettgruber.com for more great podcasts! BIG Media LLC (https://politically-speaking.captivate.fm/bigmediallc)
7 Apr 2025
Democracy in Transition: Youth, Truth & 2028
Summary: In this episode, the hosts discuss their memorable political experiences, the challenges facing the Democratic Party, and the shifting dynamics of youth voters. They explore the importance of voter engagement, the key issues that matter to voters, and the future of the Democratic Party leading up to the 2028 elections. The conversation also touches on ideal candidates for the future and concludes with a fun game of 'Two Truths and a Lie' related to political statistics. TakeAways: Barack Obama's election in 2008 was a pivotal moment for many young voters. The Democratic Party is losing support among working-class voters and young voters. Voter engagement is crucial, especially among younger demographics. Inflation and cost of living are the top concerns for voters today. Democratic messaging needs to resonate more with everyday issues. The youth vote is becoming increasingly Republican, indicating a shift in political alignment. Candidates need to connect with voters on a personal level to gain their trust. The importance of grassroots campaigning and direct voter contact is emphasized. Michelle Obama is viewed as a highly favorable candidate for future elections. Stacey Abrams is recognized for her impactful work and potential as a candidate. Thanks for listening! Please Subscribe, drop a review and consider giving us 5 Stars! Follow us across social media via our Linktr.ee (https://Linktr.ee/politicallyspeakingsc)! You can also follow us; Kirsten Pruitt (https://www.instagram.com/kirstenmd813/), Emily Mayer (https://www.instagram.com/emilymayersc/) and Erica Sampson (https://www.instagram.com/therealericasampson/)! To watch our episodes, visit our YouTube Channel (https://youtube.com/@politicallyspeakingsc)! This episode is produced and engineered by Barrett Gruber (https://linktr.ee/barrettgruber), of BIG Media LLC (https://barrettgruber.com)! Please also check out our #PartnerPodcasts. Zac and Barrett host The All About Nothing: Podcast (https://theallaboutnothing.com)! Zac and Barrett host What The Pod Was That (https://whatthepodwasthat.com) with Cari Simmons, available everywhere you listen to podcasts. Check out a deep dive down the rabbit hole with Amii on the pod, Welcome to Wonder Land (https://wtwlpod.com), available everywhere you listen to podcasts. Also check out Black White and Blue In the South (https://linktr.ee/bwabits), With Dr. Jumelle Brooks and Bill Kimler! Linktr.ee | Politically Speaking (https://linktr.ee/politicallyspeakingsc) Music from #Uppbeat; "Suss" performed by Bosnow; https://uppbeat.io/t/bosnow/suss (https://uppbeat.io/t/bosnow/suss) License code: LFOVRJZEGYVLTXCK Mentioned in this episode: BIG Media LLC Copyright 2025 "Politically Speaking" with Erica Sampson, Emily Mayer and Kirsten Pruitt is solely owned by Erica Sampson, Emily Mayer and Kirsten Pruitt, and is distributed by BIG Media LLC, Copyright 2025; all rights reserved. Visit https://barrettgruber.com for more great podcasts! <a...
24 Mar 2025
From Personal Stories to Political Action And North Charleston Scandal
In this episode of 'Politically Speaking', the Erica, Kirsten and Emily share their personal journeys into political engagement, discussing the motivations that led them to become active in their communities. They delve into a significant corruption scandal involving North Charleston city council members, exploring the implications of such events on public trust and voter confidence. The conversation emphasizes the importance of transparency in government and encourages listeners to remain engaged in local politics, highlighting that every vote matters and can lead to meaningful change. Thanks for listening! Please Subscribe, drop a review and consider giving us 5 Stars! Follow us across social media via our Linktr.ee (https://Linktr.ee/politicallyspeakingsc)! You can also follow us; Kirsten Pruitt (https://www.instagram.com/kirstenmd813/), Emily Mayer (https://www.instagram.com/emilymayersc/) and Erica Sampson (https://www.instagram.com/therealericasampson/)! To watch our episodes, visit our YouTube Channel (https://youtube.com/@politicallyspeakingsc)! This episode is produced and engineered by Barrett Gruber (https://linktr.ee/barrettgruber), of BIG Media LLC (https://barrettgruber.com)! Please also check out our #PartnerPodcasts. Zac and Barrett host The All About Nothing: Podcast (https://theallaboutnothing.com)! Zac and Barrett host What The Pod Was That (https://whatthepodwasthat.com) with Cari Simmons, available everywhere you listen to podcasts. Check out a deep dive down the rabbit hole with Amii on the pod, Welcome to Wonder Land (https://wtwlpod.com), available everywhere you listen to podcasts. Also check out Black White and Blue In the South (https://linktr.ee/bwabits), With Dr. Jumelle Brooks and Bill Kimler! Music from #Uppbeat; "Suss" performed by Bosnow; https://uppbeat.io/t/bosnow/suss (https://uppbeat.io/t/bosnow/suss) License code: LFOVRJZEGYVLTXCK Mentioned in this episode: BIG Media LLC Copyright 2025 "Politically Speaking" with Erica Sampson, Emily Mayer and Kirsten Pruitt is solely owned by Erica Sampson, Emily Mayer and Kirsten Pruitt, and is distributed by BIG Media LLC, Copyright 2025; all rights reserved. Visit https://barrettgruber.com for more great podcasts! BIG Media LLC (https://politically-speaking.captivate.fm/bigmediallc)
10 Mar 2025
How This All Got Started and Women in Politics: A Journey of Advocacy
In the inaugural episode of the Politically Speaking podcast, hosts Erica Sampson, Kirsten Pruitt, and Emily Mayer share their personal political journeys and experiences in local conventions. They discuss the importance of community engagement in politics, the challenges faced in Charleston's political scene, and the need for more diverse voices in political spaces. The conversation highlights the significance of support systems among women in politics and the impact of local conventions on political participation. The conversation delves into the political dynamics surrounding nominations and community engagement in Charleston, highlighting the drama of the nomination process and the unexpected rise of Pastor Dixon. The discussion shifts to the importance of community involvement and activism, particularly in light of recent legislative developments in South Carolina regarding abortion rights. Personal testimonies and experiences are shared, emphasizing the emotional weight of these issues. The episode concludes with a fun segment, 'Two Truths and a Lie,' aimed at engaging the audience while discussing serious topics. Music from #Uppbeat; "Suss" performed by Bosnow; https://uppbeat.io/t/bosnow/suss (https://uppbeat.io/t/bosnow/suss) License code: LFOVRJZEGYVLTXCK Thanks for listening! Please Subscribe, drop a review and consider giving us 5 Stars! Follow us across social media via our Linktr.ee (https://Linktr.ee/politicallyspeakingsc)! You can also follow us; Kirsten Pruitt (https://www.instagram.com/kirstenmd813/), Emily Mayer (https://www.instagram.com/emilymayersc/) and Erica Sampson (https://www.instagram.com/therealericasampson/)! To watch our episodes, visit our YouTube Channel (https://youtube.com/@politicallyspeakingsc)! This episode is produced and engineered by Barrett Gruber (https://linktr.ee/barrettgruber), of BIG Media LLC (https://barrettgruber.com)! Please also check out our #PartnerPodcasts. Zac and Barrett host The All About Nothing: Podcast (https://theallaboutnothing.com)! Zac and Barrett host What The Pod Was That (https://whatthepodwasthat.com) with Cari Simmons, available everywhere you listen to podcasts. Check out a deep dive down the rabbit hole with Amii on the pod, Welcome to Wonder Land (https://wtwlpod.com), available everywhere you listen to podcasts. Also check out Black White and Blue In the South (https://linktr.ee/bwabits), With Dr. Jumelle Brooks and Bill Kimler! Mentioned in this episode: BIG Media LLC Copyright 2025 "Politically Speaking" with Erica Sampson, Emily Mayer and Kirsten Pruitt is solely owned by Erica Sampson, Emily Mayer and Kirsten Pruitt, and is distributed by BIG Media LLC, Copyright 2025; all rights reserved. Visit https://barrettgruber.com for more great podcasts! BIG Media LLC (https://politically-speaking.captivate.fm/bigmediallc)
Who has been a guest on Politically Speaking
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
- Ryan Stephens
- Jay Parmley
- Tina Belge
- Kyle Brantley
- Anderson Clayton
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
- YouTube views
- 127,457
- Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
- Spotify
- 5.0 / 5
- 1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 37 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
- Quality
- 9
- Social presence
- 91
- YouTube
- 82
- Engagement
- 32
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