Podcast
Reclaiming My Mind
Hosted by Jessica Vaughn · EN
Politics, activism, and happenings in the Tampa Bay area as well as statewide in Florida.
Hosted by Jessica Vaughn, an elected official and community organizer with a passion for political engagement, grassroots advocacy, and the Tampa Bay area
22episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Ben Braver's Bold Vision for Florida
3w ago00:45:47Tap to summarizeHow does a middle school teacher launch a viral, youth-driven digital movement to shake up state politics? In this episode of our Getting to Know Your Candidates series, we talk with Florida House District 65 candidate Ben Braver. We dive into his youth-focused social media campaign and the bold, kitchen-table ideas he's proposing for everyday Floridians—from tackling monopolistic landlords and out-of-control housing costs to fixing urban sprawl with real public transit. Tune in to hear how Ben plans to bring transparency, worker-first economics, and a teacher's perspective to Tallahassee.
Transcribe →Every Child, Every Chance with Daniela Simic
Jun 1700:49:53Tap to summarizeWhat happens when you bring over 20 years of real classroom and district leadership experience to the School Board table? In this episode, we sit down with Daniela Simic, candidate for Hillsborough County School Board, District 2. As a public school parent, former teacher, and former Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Daniela shares her deep passion for educator support, student success, and keeping true educational expertise at the center of district governance. Tune in to hear her roadmap for giving every student in our community a real chance to thrive.
Transcribe →Game Plan for Our Schools: A Conversation with Coach Chris Taylor
Jun 1701:04:26Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Reclaiming My Mind, we're diving deep into the future of Hillsborough County Public Schools with District 3 school board candidate Coach Chris Taylor. With a unique perspective shaped as a former classroom teacher, dedicated coach, and former president of the Hillsborough Education Foundation, Chris has seen our education system from the sidelines, the front lines, and the boardroom. Join us as we discuss what it really takes to support our educators, champion transparency, and draw up a winning playbook for our students and community.
Transcribe →When They Go Low, We Get Loud
May 1601:00:17Tap to summarizeIn this powerful edition of Reclaiming My Mind, we are joined by a true force for change in Florida politics: State Representative and U.S. Senate candidate Angie Nixon. Representative Nixon has never been one to sit quietly when justice is on the line. Recently, the Florida House Rules and Ethics Committee formally reprimanded her for using a bullhorn on the House floor to passionately protest what she, and many others, denounced as illegal and unconstitutional gerrymandering. But the discipline didn't stop her. Just one day after the reprimand, Angie was arrested during a peaceful, hours-long sit-in protest outside Governor Ron DeSantis's office, where she and her constituents demanded a meeting to challenge the newly drawn congressional maps. Angie refuses to let voters' representation be stripped away in silence. Tune in to hear an incredibly inspiring interview as she opens up about the cost of fighting for democracy, the courage it takes to disrupt the status quo, and her compelling platform as she takes her fight to the national stage.
Transcribe →Sustainable Growth and Safer Streets: Camryn Henry's Blueprint for Plant City
May 1300:48:03Tap to summarizeAs Plant City faces a pivotal moment of expansion, how do we ensure we don't lose the charm and safety that make it home? In this episode, we're joined by Camryn Henry, a candidate for City Commission Group 4 who is drawing a line in the sand against reckless development. A mother and a fierce advocate for "family first" governance, Camryn brings a unique, grounded perspective to the table. We discuss her commitment to sustainable growth—ensuring infrastructure and resources keep pace with new building—and her deep-rooted passion for public safety. With a partner on the front lines as a first responder, Camryn understands the necessity of fully supporting our fire and police departments to keep our neighborhoods secure. Join us for an inspiring conversation about why Camryn is the "real deal" for Plant City: a leader who prioritizes the safety of our children, the integrity of our historic downtown, and a future where growth never comes at the expense of community.
Transcribe →District 65 Spotlight: A Conversation with Kell Cameron
Apr 1300:43:14Tap to summarizeIn this installment of our Get to Know Your Candidate series, we sit down with public educator and community advocate Kell Cameron. Running for Florida State House District 65, Kell brings a passionate, "people-first" perspective to the critical issues facing our region. We discuss his commitment to solving the housing and insurance crisis, his fierce advocacy for public education, and his vision for a more inclusive Florida. Tune in to hear why this South Tampa teacher is ready to take his community-driven leadership to Tallahassee. Learn more: https://www.votekellcameron.com/
Transcribe →Alan Henderson's Vision - The Blueprint for a Better Tampa
Mar 3100:48:47Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Reclaiming My Mind, we sit down with Tampa Mayoral candidate Alan Henderson. Representing a new generation of leadership, Henderson brings a fresh, energetic perspective to the future of our city. We dive deep into his granular, data-driven plan for urban improvement—moving beyond broad promises to explore the specific strategies he believes will transform Tampa's infrastructure, housing, and community services. Tune in for a conversation about passion, policy, and what it takes to build a more functional city for every resident.
Transcribe →Pasco's Path Forward
Mar 800:44:51Tap to summarizeJoin Stephanie Vazquez as she transitions from her background in the military and anti-human trafficking to running for Pasco County Commission. Discover her platform for a safer, more transparent, and sustainably grown community.
Transcribe →Roots, Growth & Resilience for Plant City
Feb 2600:45:05Tap to summarizeWhat happens when a town known for its history meets the momentum of the future? In this episode of Reclaiming My Mind, we sit down with "homegrown" candidate Tony Bernard Smith. Tony's running for Plant City Commission Group 3 with a clear mission: ensuring that as the city grows, no resident gets left behind. We dive into his vision for an accessible Plant City and how his deep local roots are fueling his energetic push for progress.
Transcribe →From the Classroom to Congress
Jan 2801:04:32Tap to summarizeBrandt Robinson is running for Congress with momentum, purpose, and a deep commitment to public education. In this episode, we talk about standing up to Moms for Liberty, challenging Anna Paulina Luna, and why this moment—and this race—matters so much for Florida and the country. I learned a lot. You will too. https://brandtforcongress.com/
Transcribe →