Built By Us
123 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 1 month ago - ★★★★★ - 14 ratingsBuilt By Us is a podcast series created by Democracy North Carolina to highlight the many inspiring movement makers across NC who are working for social and political change. Hosts, Alyssa and Zakyree hear stories from hometown heroes who support & empower their communities every day. Built By Us also provides a breakdown of the complicated policies that affect our daily lives. With each episode, you’ll hear a new way that you can take part in fighting for a North Carolina that is built by us.
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Episodes
A Celebration of Resilience: Juneteenth
June 18, 2021 20:00 - 51 minutes - 35.3 MBHappy Juneteenth! In this episode, hosts are joined by Democracy NC staff to discuss what Juneteenth means to them. Tune in as we learn the history of our nation, a people and their culture, their heritage, — and their resilience. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Season 3 Premiere: What Future Are We Building? Ft. The Comms Cuties
June 16, 2021 19:00 - 18 minutes - 12.9 MBWelcome to Season 3 of Built By Us! We're so glad you're here. — Tune in as we welcome a brand new season; packed with all-new episodes, guests, stories, and.....hosts! Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Unlearning the Past to Build our Future with Rebby Kern
June 02, 2021 21:00 - 41 minutes - 28.9 MBMeet Rebby Kern (they/them) — a biracial, non-binary, queer person with a decade’s worth of experience in queer activism. Rebby is the Director of Education Policy @equalitync, a co-founder of the Trans Yoga Project, and a lifelong learner. Tune in as we discuss the importance of representation, wellness, protecting our energy, and shaking the table. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Reimagining Our Future with Angaza Laughinghouse
May 11, 2021 23:00 - 34 minutes - 23.9 MBIn this episode, Alyssa & Taylor are joined by ACLU NC’s, Angaza Laughinghouse. Together, they discuss systemic injustices and our place as activists within these systems. Tune in as we step outside our current structures and imagine all the possibilities for our future. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
NC’s Plan to Safeguard Voting Rights: Senate Bill 446
April 29, 2021 22:00 - 8 minutes - 5.89 MBIn this Brick episode, Alyssa & Taylor discuss a recently introduced, pro-voter bill, SB 446: "Safeguarding Voting Rights". Tune in to learn all about this comprehensive elections bill and how it would expand voter registration and increase access to the ballot box. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
NC's Jim Crow 2.0: The "Elections Integrity Act"
April 27, 2021 21:00 - 9 minutes - 6.37 MBIn this Brick episode, Alyssa & Taylor debunk the idea that our elections have no integrity as they pull apart the provisions inside Senate Bill 326: the "Elections Integrity Act”. — Tune in to learn more about how SB 326 is part of a nation wide Jim Crow response to 2020's highest voter turnout in history. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Creating Community in the High Country with Clarinda Choice
April 23, 2021 19:00 - 37 minutes - 25.8 MBWhen the opportunity to make a difference fell into the hands of new NC resident, Clarinda Choice — they decided to step up to the challenge. In this episode, hear the story of @black_ppl_in_boone. An Instagram account with an unlikely backstory that is now building community in the High Country. Tune in to hear more about how Clarinda is doing their part to create a North Carolina that’s truly Built By Us, over in Boone, NC. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @Democracy...
Holding Elected Leaders Accountable #ForThePeople
April 09, 2021 16:00 - 7 minutes - 5.2 MBIn this episode, Alyssa and Taylor introduce the 3rd and final pillar of the For the People Act: Holding Elected Leaders Accountable! It’s time for our Congress to pass and sign the For the People Act into law. Listen in to learn about this bold pro-democracy package and how you can take action to ensure this bill passes. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Getting Big Money Out of Politics #ForThePeople
March 31, 2021 15:00 - 9 minutes - 6.83 MBIn this episode, Alyssa and Taylor introduce the 2nd pillar of the For the People Act: Getting Big Money out of Politics! Listen in to learn more about this bold pro-democracy package that will heal our country and build a more just, fair, and inclusive democratic society. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Making Voting Simpler, Safer, and Fairer #ForThePeople
March 24, 2021 19:00 - 13 minutes - 9.4 MBIn this episode, Alyssa and Taylor introduce the 1st pillar of the For the People Act: Making Voting Simpler, Safer, and Fairer! Listen in to learn the ins and outs of this once-in-a-generation pro-democracy package and how you can take action to support it, today. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
The Intersections of The Work with Aja Bullock and Des Gatewood
March 17, 2021 17:00 - 29 minutes - 20.5 MBThis week, Alyssa and Taylor are joined by two amazing Democracy NC colleagues. — Des Gatewood is back to facilitate a conversation between us and a friend of the pod, Aja Bullock. As someone who has been organizing and shaking tables in North Carolina for years, Aja shares how they add to the movement by stepping into advocacy spaces as a Black, Queer, and Poor North Carolinian. So, listen in and learn from Aja and Des. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNort...
LIVE: 'Wilmington on Fire' Documentary Discussion with Chris Everett
March 11, 2021 23:00 - 56 minutes - 39.2 MBTune in to this LIVE Discussion with 'Wilmington on Fire' Director, Chris Everett. On February 26, Desmera Gatewood, Democracy NC Voter Outreach Coordinator, met with Director Chris Everett to gain insight into how the film 'Wilmington on Fire' was created, and to discuss how we must work towards building accountability, and a system of justice and reparations for the families and victims who lost their lives that day. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthC...
Recognizing our Humanity With Marion Johnson
February 26, 2021 20:00 - 38 minutes - 26.4 MBCelebrating Black Movement Makers in North Carolina. — In this episode, Alyssa and Taylor have a great conversation with Marion about their adventures in equity consulting, the social issues on their mind every day, and the importance of recognizing the humanity within each other. Tune in as we Recognize our Humanity With Marion Johnson. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Truthful and Revolutionary History with Ajamu Amiri Dillahunt
February 18, 2021 18:00 - 44 minutes - 30.2 MBCelebrating Black Movement Makers in North Carolina. — In this episode, Alyssa and Taylor talk to Ajamu about the value of understanding the past, the power of internationalism, and the importance of our connection to the people. Tune in as we talk Truthful and Revolutionary history with Ajamu Amiri Dillahunt. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Storytelling and Healing Justice with Omisade Burney-Scott
February 10, 2021 16:00 - 49 minutes - 33.7 MBCelebrating Black Movement Makers in North Carolina. — In this episode, Alyssa and Taylor chat with Omi about the dynamics of movement work, the importance of spiritual hygiene, and the intersections of storytelling and social justice. Tune in as we talk Storytelling and Healing Justice with Omisade Burney-Scott. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘Letter From Birmingham Jail’
February 03, 2021 15:00 - 24 minutes - 17.1 MBIn this episode, Taylor and Alyssa listen to MLK read excerpts from his Letter from Birmingham Jail and discuss the elements still at play today. Tune in as we unpack and understand MLK's historic words almost 60 years later. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
New Year, New Beginnings
January 20, 2021 21:00 - 14 minutes - 10.1 MBIt's a New Year with New Beginnings (and we intend to make the most of each). Tune in to this episode as hosts, Alyssa and Taylor, share their fav 2020 moments while welcoming in the new year — whatever it may bring. Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)
New Year, New Beginnings
January 20, 2021 21:00 - 14 minutes - 10.1 MBIt's a New Year with New Beginnings (and we intend to make the most of each). Tune in to this episode as hosts, Alyssa and Taylor, share their fav 2020 moments while welcoming in the new year — whatever it may bring. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Canvass Recap: Every Vote Counted in 2020
December 17, 2020 18:00 - 44 minutes - 30.4 MBOn today's episode of Built by Us, Taylor is joined by Canvassing experts, Gino & Sailor, to demystify "The Canvass" process. We listen to each of their stories and updates from 2020 to explain how we worked to count every vote in 2020. Tune in to understand why the integrity of our elections is something to celebrate! Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Election Protection: Protecting the Vote in 2020
December 10, 2020 17:00 - 38 minutes - 26.6 MBIn this episode, Alyssa & Taylor are joined by our very own Caroline & Shelby, who run the Election Protection program here at Democracy NC. This team was responsible for recruiting and coordinating 2,300+ Vote Protectors and 400+ hotline volunteers this year! Listen in to hear why this program is important and some of our favorite stories from this year's amazing volunteers. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @demo...
Post Election Check-in
December 03, 2020 22:00 - 9 minutes - 6.81 MBIn this Brick, Alyssa & Taylor recap the 2020 General Election with the numbers that are currently available. They go over the overwhelming and exciting number of absentee ballots cast this year and touch on the growth in youth participation. Then we hear from listeners like you about how this election felt, and what you hope to see in the future! Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Update: Counting Every Vote in NC
November 12, 2020 17:00 - 6 minutes - 4.44 MBHappy Day of Canvass! In this episode, Taylor and Alyssa are joined by a special guest to talk about the Day of Canvass. A day where our staff and volunteers go to county meetings to hear the discussions on which provisional and outstanding absentee ballots get counted. Tune in to learn more about what this process is, why it’s important, and what we’re doing about here at Democracy NC ✨🤝 Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync ...
#CountEveryVote
October 22, 2020 18:00 - 8 minutes - 5.72 MBIn this episode, Taylor and Alyssa talk about making sure Every Vote Counts in 2020. The hosts discuss seeing democracy at work and how long that might take this November. We might not know the results of the presidential election for a while — and that’s okay! Tune in to hear why. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Early Voting Starts Today!
October 14, 2020 05:00 - 5 minutes - 4.15 MBHappy Early Voting Szn, NC! In this episode, Taylor and Alyssa talk all about Early Voting, why they're excited about it, and how they're voting themselves. Tune in for a quick conversation about Early Voting that you can listen to you while you make your own plans to Early Vote! And remember! Early Voting runs from Thursday, Oct 15th to Saturday, Oct 31st. Get out there and vote! Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok:...
Activism Through the Generations
October 09, 2020 21:00 - 1 hour - 42.4 MBIn this episode, Taylor and Alyssa are joined by 2020 Democracy Summer friendterns and their organizer, Linda Sutton, to talk about activism. Join us for a great discussion on activism from the perspectives of different generations. Representing the Baby Boomers, Millennials, and Generation Z — Tune in for a fun and ‘controversial’ conversation on collaboration and participating in activism through the ages. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Inst...
Let's talk about Colorism
September 30, 2020 21:00 - 43 minutes - 29.9 MBIn this episode, Taylor is joined by 2 Democracy Summer Friendterns, Noely + Janiya, and a special guest to talk about colorism. Unpacking the issues related to skin color can be difficult, but it's necessary. Together, the hosts discuss their personal experiences with colorism, strategies for working through some of their concerns, and ideas for having more effective conversations in the future. Tune in to this episode and further explore the personal role that you may play in this issue. ...
Understanding White Supremacy Culture
September 24, 2020 21:00 - 18 minutes - 13 MBIn this episode, Built By Us hosts discuss what they’ve learned about White Supremacy Culture from Dismantling Racism Works. We discuss what it means to live in a white supremacist culture and how to recognize the tenets of this culture in our everyday lives. Peruse the descriptions of the ways we live out these values here, and use this as a starting place to have more conversations like this in your personal life. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarol...
Understanding White Supremacy Culture
September 24, 2020 21:00 - 18 minutes - 13 MBIn this episode, Built By Us hosts discuss what they’ve learned about White Supremacy Culture from Dismantling Racism Works. We discuss what it means to live in a white supremacist culture and how to recognize the tenets of this culture in our everyday lives. Peruse the descriptions of the ways we live out these values here, and use this as a starting place to have more conversations like this in your personal life. Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)
Wading in Whiteness Pt. 2
September 17, 2020 22:00 - 55 minutes - 38.2 MBIn this part 2 of Last Week's episode, Built By Us hosts continue to talk about 'whiteness'. Hosts discuss living in a white-washed world, the effects of white supremacy culture, and the systems and experiences that this perpetuates. Tune in to hear each host share their personal experiences and reflections on what it's like living in and confronting whiteness, every day. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democrac...
Remembering John Lewis
September 09, 2020 18:00 - 20 minutes - 14 MBIn this brick, we honor the legendary Congressman, John Lewis. Joined by a close friend of John's, we gather to reminisce on all that he has done and the legacy that he has left. Tune in to join us in Remembering John Lewis. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Remembering John Lewis
September 09, 2020 18:00 - 20 minutes - 14 MBIn this brick, we honor the legendary Congressman, John Lewis. Joined by a close friend of John's, we gather to reminisce on all that he has done and the legacy that he has left. Tune in to join us in Remembering John Lewis. Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)
Wading in Whiteness
September 02, 2020 18:00 - 52 minutes - 35.8 MBIn this episode, Built By Us hosts are joined by a special guest to talk about 'whiteness'. Hosts discuss living in a white-washed world, the effects of white supremacy culture, and the systems and experiences that this perpetuates. Tune in to hear each host share their personal experiences and reflections on what it's like living in and confronting whiteness, every day. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracy...
Women Supporting Women
August 27, 2020 22:00 - 24 minutes - 16.8 MBCoupled with last week's episode about women in leadership, this Brick episode emphasizes the importance of women coming together for one another. From chats about Representative Cortez and Cheney to anecdotes about the host's own personal experiences -- Tune in for a conversation about the issues and problems that women face daily in our society and how we can best support them. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @...
Women in Leadership + Politics
August 18, 2020 19:00 - 1 hour - 49.2 MBIn this episode, two of our Democracy Summer friendterns, Veronica and Emma, introduce us to two amazing women in leadership. Being a women in leadership presents unique challenges + opportunities -- and this episode dives into those experiences! Listen and tune in as these women share their personal stories, perspectives, and advice! Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
How are you, really?
August 07, 2020 23:00 - 26 minutes - 18.4 MBTune in this to Brick episode to talk about mental health and the importance of checking in with yourself. 😌 Built By Us hosts gather to play a game, 'MERP', that shows them the value in checking in Mentally, Emotionally, Relationally, and Physically. Check out this episode and then try it yourself! Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Lived Experiences: HBCUs & PWIs
July 29, 2020 22:00 - 47 minutes - 32.8 MBIn this episode, our Democracy Summer Charlotte friendterns Brianni, Jonezie, & Sydni join us for a fun and important conversation about their experiences at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and/or Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs). Tune in to learn more about their fresh and personal perspectives as well as how that intersects with other issues such as gerrymandering and voter suppression! Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarol...
Defund the Police
July 22, 2020 20:00 - 13 minutes - 9.34 MBIn our newest podcast segment, The Bricks, Eva and Lumiere got together to discuss the phrase “Defund the Police” 🚔 They broke it down into four points to help you understand a little more about the movement ✨ Be sure to tune in to the discussion and start building your own conversations with this episode of The Bricks 🧱 Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Black in Asheville
July 17, 2020 15:00 - 15 minutes - 10.5 MBIn this episode, former UNCA professor Dr. Mullen, shares his experience as a black professor at a PWI in the 80’s and how gentrification in Asheville has affected the black community. His candid and open dialogue sheds light on the inequalities for people of color in Western NC. Tune in for a great conversation! ✨ Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Build the Bricks (Pun Intended)
July 15, 2020 20:00 - 46 seconds - 575 KBWelcome to.... The Bricks! A shorter, quicker, explainer series about all of the things YOU want to know about. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Welcome to the Premiere!
July 08, 2020 21:00 - 27 minutes - 18.9 MBIn this episode, join us for a brand new season of Built By Us! Season 2 will be packed full of new hosts, interns, engaging topics, and fun debates. Tune in to this conversation to learn more about each of our new hosts and what's to come this summer! We can't wait to spend another season creating a North Carolina that's Built By Us. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Ep. 21: Flush Gerry Mander!
June 10, 2020 22:00 - 43 minutes - 29.9 MBIn this Season Finale of Built By Us, Taylor and Alyssa are joined by Harry Taylor. Harry and his puppet, Gerry, tell us all about the importance of drawing fair and non-partisan voting maps! Tune in to hear about Harry's journey as he fights to hold our government and those elected to it accountable. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Ep. 20: Expectations v. Reality
May 14, 2020 22:00 - 36 minutes - 25 MBIn the episode, Taylor and Alyssa are joined by Parks and Rec Aficionado, Paige! Together, they talk about some of their favorite moments and characters from the show, along with how realistic these scenes REALLY are. Tune in to discuss the Expectations v. Reality of one of our favorite flix to binge! Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Ep. 19: Voting in a Pandemic
April 30, 2020 17:00 - 14 minutes - 9.93 MBIn this episode, Taylor and Alyssa talk about Democracy NC's elections recommendations amid COVID-19. These recommendations were sent to the NC State Board of Elections and include; lowering the barriers for absentee voting; preparing for potential poll worker shortages; and implementing an online voter registration system. The bottom line is that COVID-19 requires immediate emergency action by government agencies. Tune in to learn how we can protect voters and elections staff! Support the ...
Ep. 18: Voting in a Pandemic
April 30, 2020 17:00 - 14 minutes - 9.93 MBIn this episode, Taylor and Alyssa talk about Democracy NC's elections recommendations amid COVID-19. These recommendations were sent to the NC State Board of Elections and include; lowering the barriers for absentee voting; preparing for potential poll worker shortages; and implementing an online voter registration system. The bottom line is that COVID-19 requires immediate emergency action by government agencies. Tune in to learn how we can protect voters and elections staff! Support the ...
Ep. 18: Online Voter Registration
April 20, 2020 21:00 - 15 minutes - 10.8 MBJoin Taylor and Alyssa as they discuss the unveiling of Online Voter Registration in North Carolina! In this episode, they tell you all about how we got here, why it's so exciting, and how you can register all your friends TODAY. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Ep. 17: Online Voter Registration
April 20, 2020 21:00 - 15 minutes - 10.8 MBJoin Taylor and Alyssa as they discuss the unveiling of Online Voter Registration in North Carolina! In this episode, they tell you all about how we got here, why it's so exciting, and how you can register all your friends TODAY. Support the show (http://demnc.co/donation)
Ep. 17: Apply for Democracy Summer!
March 11, 2020 15:00 - 24 minutes - 16.9 MBIn this episode, Taylor and Alyssa tell you all about Democracy NC's paid summer internship programs and why you should apply, today! Don't just take it from them though, listen to Democracy Summer Alumni give you inside details on their personal experiences and highlights from their time in the program. Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Ep. 16: Why are Primaries Important?
March 02, 2020 17:00 - 25 minutes - 17.6 MBIn this episode, Taylor and Alyssa talk about the 2020 Primaries that are taking place. They discuss the how these Primaries are set up, what they're for, and why they're important. Tune in to learn the importance of Primary elections and why you should vote on Super Tuesday (if you haven't already). #wevote Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Ep. 15: What's Changed Since 2019?
February 10, 2020 16:00 - 16 minutes - 11 MBIn this episode, Taylor and Alyssa tell you about changes regarding the upcoming elections in 2020. Tune in to learn all about how you can become a pro-active voter that supports a movement that votes in 2020. #wevote Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @democracync TikTok: @democracync X: @democracync
Ep. 14: The Rising American Electorate
January 15, 2020 20:00 - 19 minutes - 13.6 MBIn this episode, Taylor and Alyssa look to 2020 to discuss the Rising American Electorate (RAE). Lately, a lot of different groups are starting to and have been stepping up to the plate in terms of politics. Young people, single women, and people of color, specifically the Latinx community in NC, have been consistently showing up in greater numbers. Tune into to learn more about why and their impact! Support the show Follow Us on Social Media Facebook: @DemocracyNorthCarolina Instagram: @...