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  <title>Raging MI Moderates: 2026 Politics</title>

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  <copyright>© 2026 Raging MI Moderates: 2026 Politics</copyright>
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  <podcast:location geo="geo:44.3148443,-85.60236429999999">Michigan, USA</podcast:location>
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  <description><![CDATA[<p>The Middle Ground Michiga<b> </b>&nbsp;<b>Podcast</b> is for people who are done being yelled at by politics.</p><p><br></p><p>This show lives in the uncomfortable space between tribal talking points and reality — where Michigan actually exists. We call out bad ideas whether they come from Lansing, Washington, or our own side of the aisle. No party loyalty. No outrage farming. No performative nonsense.</p><p><br></p><p>If you’re sick of being told you <em>must</em> be angry, must pick a team, must hate your neighbors — this is your place.</p><p><br></p><p>We cover Michigan elections, local power, policy failures, corruption, culture wars, and the stuff that actually affects your life — without pretending one party has all the answers or that the other is pure evil. Sometimes that means criticizing Democrats. Sometimes Republicans. Usually both.</p><p><br></p><p>This is not a “both sides are the same” podcast.<br>&nbsp;It’s a <b>both sides need to do better</b> podcast.</p><p><br></p><p>Expect honest conversations, uncomfortable truths, and real accountability — with a Michigan-first lens and a future-focused mindset.</p><p>No Left.<br>&nbsp;No Right.<br>&nbsp;<b>Michigan Forward.</b></p>]]></description>
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  <itunes:keywords>Michigan politics, Michigan elections, Lansing power, political corruption, government accountability, independent voters, centrist politics, moderate podcast, no left no right, truth over party, policy failure, political reform, Michigan future</itunes:keywords>
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    <itunes:name>Joe</itunes:name>
    <itunes:email>joe@themiddlegroundmic.com</itunes:email>
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     <title>Raging MI Moderates: 2026 Politics</title>
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    <itunes:title>Aric Nesbitt The Next Governor of Michigan?</itunes:title>
    <title>Aric Nesbitt The Next Governor of Michigan?</title>
    <itunes:summary><![CDATA[Send us Fan Mail Michigan Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt sits down with Joseph Steagall for an unfiltered conversation about the policies quietly driving up the cost of every new home in Michigan — to the tune of $95,000 in government-mandated costs that most buyers never see on the invoice. Learn more about his campaign: https://nesbittforgovernor.com/ In this episode: 📌 CHAPTERS 0:00 — Cold Open: The Number That Changes Everything 1:45 — Who Is Aric Nesbitt? 4:10 — Michigan's Reading...]]></itunes:summary>
    <description><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>Michigan Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt sits down with Joseph Steagall for an unfiltered conversation about the policies quietly driving up the cost of every new home in Michigan — to the tune of $95,000 in government-mandated costs that most buyers never see on the invoice.</p><p>Learn more about his campaign: <a href='https://nesbittforgovernor.com/'>https://nesbittforgovernor.com/</a></p><p>In this episode:</p><p>📌 CHAPTERS<br/>0:00 — Cold Open: The Number That Changes Everything<br/>1:45 — Who Is Aric Nesbitt?<br/>4:10 — Michigan&apos;s Reading Crisis: 3 Out of 5 Kids Can&apos;t Read<br/>8:30 — The Housing Mandate Nobody Voted For<br/>12:13 — $95,000 Added to Every New Michigan Home<br/>16:00 — What a Nesbitt Governorship Actually Looks Like<br/>20:30 — The Centrist Take: Where We Agree and Where We Don&apos;t<br/>24:00 — Final Thoughts</p><p><br/></p><ul><li>The housing mandate that added $95,000 to every new Michigan home and who is responsible for it</li><li>Michigan&apos;s reading crisis: why 3 out of 5 fourth graders cannot read at grade level and what Nesbitt&apos;s plan actually is</li><li>What a Nesbitt governorship would look like in practical terms — not talking points, actual policy</li><li>Where Joseph pushes back and where the centrist case holds up</li><li>This is the conversation mainstream media is not having. No party line. No spin. Just the receipts.</li></ul><p><br/></p><p>Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who thinks both parties have lost the plot.</p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>Michigan Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt sits down with Joseph Steagall for an unfiltered conversation about the policies quietly driving up the cost of every new home in Michigan — to the tune of $95,000 in government-mandated costs that most buyers never see on the invoice.</p><p>Learn more about his campaign: <a href='https://nesbittforgovernor.com/'>https://nesbittforgovernor.com/</a></p><p>In this episode:</p><p>📌 CHAPTERS<br/>0:00 — Cold Open: The Number That Changes Everything<br/>1:45 — Who Is Aric Nesbitt?<br/>4:10 — Michigan&apos;s Reading Crisis: 3 Out of 5 Kids Can&apos;t Read<br/>8:30 — The Housing Mandate Nobody Voted For<br/>12:13 — $95,000 Added to Every New Michigan Home<br/>16:00 — What a Nesbitt Governorship Actually Looks Like<br/>20:30 — The Centrist Take: Where We Agree and Where We Don&apos;t<br/>24:00 — Final Thoughts</p><p><br/></p><ul><li>The housing mandate that added $95,000 to every new Michigan home and who is responsible for it</li><li>Michigan&apos;s reading crisis: why 3 out of 5 fourth graders cannot read at grade level and what Nesbitt&apos;s plan actually is</li><li>What a Nesbitt governorship would look like in practical terms — not talking points, actual policy</li><li>Where Joseph pushes back and where the centrist case holds up</li><li>This is the conversation mainstream media is not having. No party line. No spin. Just the receipts.</li></ul><p><br/></p><p>Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who thinks both parties have lost the plot.</p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></content:encoded>
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    <link>https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm/aric-nesbitt-says-michigan-is-broken-and-he-thinks-lansing-is-reason</link>
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    <pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 20:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <itunes:duration>1989</itunes:duration>
    <itunes:keywords>Michigan politics, Aric Nesbitt, Michigan Governor 2026, housing crisis, Michigan housing mandates, centrist politics, independent political commentary, Michigan Senate, political interview, Michigan education, reading crisis Michigan, 2026 election, The </itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
    <itunes:episode>12</itunes:episode>
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    <itunes:title>This Is What Happens When Politics Goes Too Far… And Michigan Isn’t Immune</itunes:title>
    <title>This Is What Happens When Politics Goes Too Far… And Michigan Isn’t Immune</title>
    <itunes:summary><![CDATA[Send us Fan Mail Before we get into today’s topic, a quick shoutout to the fuel that keeps the studio running during long recording sessions. Dunkin' Original Blend Medium Roast Ground Coffee, 30 Ounce https://amzn.to/3Nk1uqI Michigan isn’t Minneapolis.  Michigan isn’t Portland. But what’s happening in those cities?  It’s closer to us than people want to admit. In this episode, I sit down with Adam Swart from Crowds On Demand to break down: – Are protests actually being funded? &nbs...]]></itunes:summary>
    <description><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>Before we get into today’s topic, a quick shoutout to the fuel that keeps the studio running during long recording sessions.</p><p><b>Dunkin&apos; Original Blend Medium Roast Ground Coffee, 30 Ounce</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3Nk1uqI'>https://amzn.to/3Nk1uqI</a></p><p>Michigan isn’t Minneapolis.<br/> Michigan isn’t Portland.</p><p>But what’s happening in those cities?<br/> It’s closer to us than people want to admit.</p><p>In this episode, I sit down with Adam Swart from Crowds On Demand to break down:</p><p>– Are protests actually being funded?<br/> – Where is the line between protest and chaos?<br/> – Why political violence is becoming more accepted<br/> – And how social media is driving people further apart</p><p>But here’s the bigger question for Michigan:</p><p><b>Are we heading down the same path?</b></p><p>Because if<b><em> moderates </em></b>don’t speak up…<br/> the loudest voices take over.</p><p><b>Chapters:</b></p><p>00:00 Introduction and Context of the Conversation<br/>02:19 Protests and Law Enforcement Dynamics<br/>07:15 The Role of Paid Protesters<br/>12:34 Political Violence and Its Acceptability<br/>15:52 The Impact of Social Media on Political Discourse<br/>19:36 Building Movements and Finding Common Ground<br/>20:39 Political Unity in Unlikely Places<br/>21:53 The Dynamics of Portland and Minneapolis<br/>25:09 The Consequences of Defunding the Police<br/>26:31 Advocacy and Transparency in Politics<br/>30:02 Actions vs. Opinions in Political Discourse<br/>35:45 Finding Common Ground in Divisive Issues<br/>37:34 Empowering Personal Advocacy</p><p>🎙️ Raging Michigan Moderates<br/> No Left. No Right. Forward.</p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>Before we get into today’s topic, a quick shoutout to the fuel that keeps the studio running during long recording sessions.</p><p><b>Dunkin&apos; Original Blend Medium Roast Ground Coffee, 30 Ounce</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3Nk1uqI'>https://amzn.to/3Nk1uqI</a></p><p>Michigan isn’t Minneapolis.<br/> Michigan isn’t Portland.</p><p>But what’s happening in those cities?<br/> It’s closer to us than people want to admit.</p><p>In this episode, I sit down with Adam Swart from Crowds On Demand to break down:</p><p>– Are protests actually being funded?<br/> – Where is the line between protest and chaos?<br/> – Why political violence is becoming more accepted<br/> – And how social media is driving people further apart</p><p>But here’s the bigger question for Michigan:</p><p><b>Are we heading down the same path?</b></p><p>Because if<b><em> moderates </em></b>don’t speak up…<br/> the loudest voices take over.</p><p><b>Chapters:</b></p><p>00:00 Introduction and Context of the Conversation<br/>02:19 Protests and Law Enforcement Dynamics<br/>07:15 The Role of Paid Protesters<br/>12:34 Political Violence and Its Acceptability<br/>15:52 The Impact of Social Media on Political Discourse<br/>19:36 Building Movements and Finding Common Ground<br/>20:39 Political Unity in Unlikely Places<br/>21:53 The Dynamics of Portland and Minneapolis<br/>25:09 The Consequences of Defunding the Police<br/>26:31 Advocacy and Transparency in Politics<br/>30:02 Actions vs. Opinions in Political Discourse<br/>35:45 Finding Common Ground in Divisive Issues<br/>37:34 Empowering Personal Advocacy</p><p>🎙️ Raging Michigan Moderates<br/> No Left. No Right. Forward.</p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></content:encoded>
    <enclosure url="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/episodes/18872678-this-is-what-happens-when-politics-goes-too-far-and-michigan-isn-t-immune.mp3" length="29807041" type="audio/mpeg" />
    <link>https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm/are-protests-still-grassroots</link>
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    <pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <itunes:duration>2479</itunes:duration>
    <itunes:keywords>Michigan politics, Michigan moderates, Raging Michigan Moderates, MiddleGround Mic, centrist podcast, moderate politics, independent voters Michigan, swing state Michigan, Michigan voters 2026, Michigan election issues, political moderation, common sense </itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
    <itunes:episode>11</itunes:episode>
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    <itunes:title>100 Megawatts: Michigan’s Data Center Boom and Who Pays the Energy Bill</itunes:title>
    <title>100 Megawatts: Michigan’s Data Center Boom and Who Pays the Energy Bill</title>
    <itunes:summary><![CDATA[Send us Fan Mail Massive data centers are expanding across the United States, and Michigan could soon host facilities requiring up to 100 megawatts of electricity.  That level of energy demand raises major questions about infrastructure, economic development, and who ultimately pays for the power.  In this episode of Raging Michigan Moderates we explore the proposed Michigan data center developments, their potential impact on the state’s energy grid, and the broader political and economic deb...]]></itunes:summary>
    <description><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>Massive data centers are expanding across the United States, and Michigan could soon host facilities requiring up to 100 megawatts of electricity.<br/><br/>That level of energy demand raises major questions about infrastructure, economic development, and who ultimately pays for the power.<br/><br/>In this episode of Raging Michigan Moderates we explore the proposed Michigan data center developments, their potential impact on the state’s energy grid, and the broader political and economic debate surrounding digital infrastructure.<br/><br/>As demand for AI and cloud computing grows, communities across the country are facing new challenges related to electricity demand, grid capacity, and long-term economic planning.<br/><br/>Michigan may soon face those same questions.</p><p><b> Stuff That Actually Helps With Michigan Bills &amp; Outages</b><br/>(Great after our electric bill &amp; data center episodes)</p><p><b><em>• Kasa Smart Plug 2-Pack (tracks energy &amp; kills vampire power)</em></b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4bz5gWi'>https://amzn.to/4bz5gWi</a></p><p><b><em>• P3 Kill A Watt Monitor (see exactly what your appliances cost)</em></b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rzNIOQ'>https://amzn.to/4rzNIOQ</a></p><p><b><em>• FosPower Hand-Crank Emergency Radio (ready for outages)</em></b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/40XyjNa'>https://amzn.to/40XyjNa</a></p><p><b>(These affiliate links help support the show at no extra cost.)</b></p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>Massive data centers are expanding across the United States, and Michigan could soon host facilities requiring up to 100 megawatts of electricity.<br/><br/>That level of energy demand raises major questions about infrastructure, economic development, and who ultimately pays for the power.<br/><br/>In this episode of Raging Michigan Moderates we explore the proposed Michigan data center developments, their potential impact on the state’s energy grid, and the broader political and economic debate surrounding digital infrastructure.<br/><br/>As demand for AI and cloud computing grows, communities across the country are facing new challenges related to electricity demand, grid capacity, and long-term economic planning.<br/><br/>Michigan may soon face those same questions.</p><p><b> Stuff That Actually Helps With Michigan Bills &amp; Outages</b><br/>(Great after our electric bill &amp; data center episodes)</p><p><b><em>• Kasa Smart Plug 2-Pack (tracks energy &amp; kills vampire power)</em></b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4bz5gWi'>https://amzn.to/4bz5gWi</a></p><p><b><em>• P3 Kill A Watt Monitor (see exactly what your appliances cost)</em></b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rzNIOQ'>https://amzn.to/4rzNIOQ</a></p><p><b><em>• FosPower Hand-Crank Emergency Radio (ready for outages)</em></b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/40XyjNa'>https://amzn.to/40XyjNa</a></p><p><b>(These affiliate links help support the show at no extra cost.)</b></p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></content:encoded>
    <enclosure url="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/episodes/18786617-100-megawatts-michigan-s-data-center-boom-and-who-pays-the-energy-bill.mp3" length="9988703" type="audio/mpeg" />
    <itunes:image href="https://storage.buzzsprout.com/euakyr1bs984vttk63cvr7qwmka5?.jpg" />
    <itunes:author>Joe</itunes:author>
    <guid isPermaLink="false">Buzzsprout-18786617</guid>
    <pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
    <itunes:duration>828</itunes:duration>
    <itunes:keywords>Raging Michigan Moderates, The MiddleGround Mic, Michigan moderates podcast, Michigan commentary podcast, Midwest politics podcast, data center electricity demand, AI data center power consumption, data center energy usage, cloud computing infrastructure,</itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
    <itunes:episode>10</itunes:episode>
    <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
    <itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
  </item>
  <item>
    <itunes:title>Is Iran About to Fall? The Shah, Trump &amp; the Global Power Shift</itunes:title>
    <title>Is Iran About to Fall? The Shah, Trump &amp; the Global Power Shift</title>
    <itunes:summary><![CDATA[Send us Fan Mail Iran’s leadership future is uncertain, and the global power balance may be shifting.  Ron Bee joins The MiddleGround Mic to analyze Iran’s political structure, the Shah question, China and Russia’s positioning, and what comes next for the Iranian people.  Episode Breakdown: 00:00 The Volatile Political Landscape in Iran   08:48 Leadership and Legitimacy   17:22 Regional and Global Dynamics   26:17 Iran’s Military Future   35:02 Middle Eastern Political Com...]]></itunes:summary>
    <description><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>Iran’s leadership future is uncertain, and the global power balance may be shifting.<br/><br/>Ron Bee joins The MiddleGround Mic to analyze Iran’s political structure, the Shah question, China and Russia’s positioning, and what comes next for the Iranian people.<br/><br/>Episode Breakdown:<br/>00:00 The Volatile Political Landscape in Iran  <br/>08:48 Leadership and Legitimacy  <br/>17:22 Regional and Global Dynamics  <br/>26:17 Iran’s Military Future  <br/>35:02 Middle Eastern Political Complexities  <br/>41:10 The Nuclear Question  <br/>50:56 Civility in Political Discourse  <br/>57:35 Hope for the Iranian People  <br/><br/>This is a strategic breakdown — not partisan noise.<br/><br/>No Left. No Right. Forward.</p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>Iran’s leadership future is uncertain, and the global power balance may be shifting.<br/><br/>Ron Bee joins The MiddleGround Mic to analyze Iran’s political structure, the Shah question, China and Russia’s positioning, and what comes next for the Iranian people.<br/><br/>Episode Breakdown:<br/>00:00 The Volatile Political Landscape in Iran  <br/>08:48 Leadership and Legitimacy  <br/>17:22 Regional and Global Dynamics  <br/>26:17 Iran’s Military Future  <br/>35:02 Middle Eastern Political Complexities  <br/>41:10 The Nuclear Question  <br/>50:56 Civility in Political Discourse  <br/>57:35 Hope for the Iranian People  <br/><br/>This is a strategic breakdown — not partisan noise.<br/><br/>No Left. No Right. Forward.</p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></content:encoded>
    <enclosure url="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/episodes/18772392-is-iran-about-to-fall-the-shah-trump-the-global-power-shift.mp3" length="40590888" type="audio/mpeg" />
    <itunes:image href="https://storage.buzzsprout.com/3purxi7nfmpgkal7lbot9v890mr8?.jpg" />
    <itunes:author>Joe</itunes:author>
    <guid isPermaLink="false">Buzzsprout-18772392</guid>
    <pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 02:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
    <itunes:duration>3378</itunes:duration>
    <itunes:keywords>Iran collapse, Iran regime change, Reza Pahlavi, Iran Shah return, Trump Iran policy, China Iran strategy, Russia Iran alliance, Iran Supreme Leader, Middle East power shift, Iran nuclear threat, geopolitical analysis, Ron Bee interview, Islamic Republic </itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
    <itunes:episode>9</itunes:episode>
    <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
    <itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
  </item>
  <item>
    <itunes:title>Is America Too Broken to Fix? Woke Culture &amp; Media Lies | The Agitatorz</itunes:title>
    <title>Is America Too Broken to Fix? Woke Culture &amp; Media Lies | The Agitatorz</title>
    <itunes:summary><![CDATA[Send us Fan Mail America feels like it’s splitting in half.  In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Joe sits down with The Agitatorz to confront the issues most people are afraid to say out loud:  • Has polarization gone too far?  • Did the Obama era change everything?  • Is “woke culture” helping or hurting society?  • Are liberal cities failing their communities?  • What role does media bias play in division?  • Is there ANY middle ground left?  Check their Facebook ...]]></itunes:summary>
    <description><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>America feels like it’s splitting in half.<br/><br/>In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Joe sits down with The Agitatorz to confront the issues most people are afraid to say out loud:<br/><br/>• Has polarization gone too far?<br/> • Did the Obama era change everything?<br/> • Is “woke culture” helping or hurting society?<br/> • Are liberal cities failing their communities?<br/> • What role does media bias play in division?<br/> • Is there ANY middle ground left?<br/><br/>Check their Facebook out:<br/>https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586934188085<br/><br/>From gender identity debates to crime in Democrat-run cities… from mental health institutions to identity politics… from race as a social construct to global instability in the Middle East — nothing is off limits.<br/><br/>This is not screaming.<br/> This is not safe.<br/> This is a real conversation.<br/><br/>👇 CHAPTERS 👇<br/><br/>00:00 Introduction to the Agitators<br/> 03:32 Polarization in Politics<br/> 07:44 The Impact of Woke Culture<br/> 10:38 The Breakdown of the Nuclear Family<br/> 15:07 The Role of Community in Values<br/> 19:54 Generational Differences<br/> 23:52 Gender Identity Confusion<br/> 24:55 Mental Health &amp; Liberal Policy<br/> 28:59 Crime in Liberal Cities<br/> 33:38 Gangs &amp; Community Power<br/> 39:36 Is There Common Ground?<br/> 49:56 Identity Politics<br/> 01:06:31 Media Bias &amp; Brainwashing<br/> 01:35:20 Middle East Conflict<br/> 01:44:11 Iran &amp; Global Responsibility<br/> 01:48:37 Can We Still Talk Across Divides?<br/><br/>🎙 No Left. No Right. Forward.</p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>America feels like it’s splitting in half.<br/><br/>In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Joe sits down with The Agitatorz to confront the issues most people are afraid to say out loud:<br/><br/>• Has polarization gone too far?<br/> • Did the Obama era change everything?<br/> • Is “woke culture” helping or hurting society?<br/> • Are liberal cities failing their communities?<br/> • What role does media bias play in division?<br/> • Is there ANY middle ground left?<br/><br/>Check their Facebook out:<br/>https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586934188085<br/><br/>From gender identity debates to crime in Democrat-run cities… from mental health institutions to identity politics… from race as a social construct to global instability in the Middle East — nothing is off limits.<br/><br/>This is not screaming.<br/> This is not safe.<br/> This is a real conversation.<br/><br/>👇 CHAPTERS 👇<br/><br/>00:00 Introduction to the Agitators<br/> 03:32 Polarization in Politics<br/> 07:44 The Impact of Woke Culture<br/> 10:38 The Breakdown of the Nuclear Family<br/> 15:07 The Role of Community in Values<br/> 19:54 Generational Differences<br/> 23:52 Gender Identity Confusion<br/> 24:55 Mental Health &amp; Liberal Policy<br/> 28:59 Crime in Liberal Cities<br/> 33:38 Gangs &amp; Community Power<br/> 39:36 Is There Common Ground?<br/> 49:56 Identity Politics<br/> 01:06:31 Media Bias &amp; Brainwashing<br/> 01:35:20 Middle East Conflict<br/> 01:44:11 Iran &amp; Global Responsibility<br/> 01:48:37 Can We Still Talk Across Divides?<br/><br/>🎙 No Left. No Right. Forward.</p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></content:encoded>
    <enclosure url="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/episodes/18759077-is-america-too-broken-to-fix-woke-culture-media-lies-the-agitatorz.mp3" length="80617710" type="audio/mpeg" />
    <itunes:image href="https://storage.buzzsprout.com/htkl0e3zn4eln5q463efptrh2xs9?.jpg" />
    <itunes:author>Joe</itunes:author>
    <guid isPermaLink="false">Buzzsprout-18759077</guid>
    <pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 22:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
    <podcast:transcript url="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/18759077/transcript" type="text/html" />
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    <psc:chapters>
  <psc:chapter start="0:00" title="Opening: Is America Too Divided" />
  <psc:chapter start="1:12" title="Meet The Hosts And Guests" />
  <psc:chapter start="2:23" title="The My Way Or No Way Problem" />
  <psc:chapter start="3:36" title="Faith, Politics, And Polarization" />
  <psc:chapter start="7:20" title="Same-Sex Marriage And Culture Shifts" />
  <psc:chapter start="11:30" title="Kids, Gender, And Schools" />
  <psc:chapter start="16:40" title="Nuclear Family And Incentives" />
  <psc:chapter start="23:10" title="Recessions, Work Ethic, And Youth" />
  <psc:chapter start="28:20" title="Compliance, Covid, And Conditioning" />
  <psc:chapter start="33:40" title="Norms, Identity, And Power" />
  <psc:chapter start="40:15" title="Homelessness, Mental Health, And Policy" />
  <psc:chapter start="47:45" title="Blue Cities, Schools, And Culture" />
  <psc:chapter start="54:30" title="Finding Middle Ground Or Drawing Lines" />
  <psc:chapter start="1:01:20" title="Media Bias And Brainwashing" />
  <psc:chapter start="1:08:20" title="Free Speech, Labels, And Friendship" />
  <psc:chapter start="1:15:40" title="Identity Politics And Double Standards" />
  <psc:chapter start="1:23:20" title="Debate, Facts, And Manufactured Outrage" />
  <psc:chapter start="1:31:00" title="History, Guilt, And How We Teach" />
  <psc:chapter start="1:40:40" title="Paperclip, Nazis, And Messy Realities" />
  <psc:chapter start="1:49:30" title="Israel, Hamas, And Proportional Response" />
</psc:chapters>
    <itunes:duration>6712</itunes:duration>
    <itunes:keywords>woke culture debate,gender identity politics,crime in liberal cities,media brainwashing,political polarization America,culture war discussion,identity politics explained,middle ground politics,conservative vs liberal debate,nuclear family decline,Iran con</itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
    <itunes:episode>8</itunes:episode>
    <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
    <itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
  </item>
  <item>
    <itunes:title>Michigan’s Electric Bill Scam: Paying More for Worse Power</itunes:title>
    <title>Michigan’s Electric Bill Scam: Paying More for Worse Power</title>
    <itunes:summary><![CDATA[Send us Fan Mail Michigan families are paying higher electric bills while outages last longer and accountability disappears.  In this episode of Raging Michigan Moderates, we break down why rates keep rising, how billing errors are built into the system, why reliability promises never seem to materialize, and how regulators continue approving increases while families struggle.  We also expose the growing role of massive AI data centers — and how they could lock Michigan residents into even hi...]]></itunes:summary>
    <description><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>Michigan families are paying higher electric bills while outages last longer and accountability disappears.<br/><br/>In this episode of Raging Michigan Moderates, we break down why rates keep rising, how billing errors are built into the system, why reliability promises never seem to materialize, and how regulators continue approving increases while families struggle.<br/><br/>We also expose the growing role of massive AI data centers — and how they could lock Michigan residents into even higher energy costs for years to come.<br/><br/>This isn’t left vs right. It’s about fairness, transparency, and who actually benefits.<br/><br/></p><p><a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm?new=1'><b><em>Support the show for as little as $1</em></b></a><b><em> (link is clickable) </em></b></p><p><b>Chapters</b><br/><br/><b>00:00 The Rising Costs of Energy in Michigan<br/>03:07 Utility Companies and Rate Hikes<br/>06:37 Reliability Issues and Infrastructure Failures<br/>09:43 Renewable Energy and Incentives<br/>12:37 Comparing Michigan to Ohio&apos;s Energy Policies<br/>15:27 The Impact of AI Data Centers on Michigan<br/>20:16 Conclusion: The Need for Change in Michigan&apos;s Energy Sector</b></p><p><b> Stuff That Actually Helps With Michigan Bills &amp; Outages</b><br/>(Great after our electric bill &amp; data center episodes)</p><p><b><em>• Kasa Smart Plug 2-Pack (tracks energy &amp; kills vampire power)</em></b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4bz5gWi'>https://amzn.to/4bz5gWi</a></p><p><b><em>• P3 Kill A Watt Monitor (see exactly what your appliances cost)</em></b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rzNIOQ'>https://amzn.to/4rzNIOQ</a></p><p><b><em>• FosPower Hand-Crank Emergency Radio (ready for outages)</em></b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/40XyjNa'>https://amzn.to/40XyjNa</a></p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>Michigan families are paying higher electric bills while outages last longer and accountability disappears.<br/><br/>In this episode of Raging Michigan Moderates, we break down why rates keep rising, how billing errors are built into the system, why reliability promises never seem to materialize, and how regulators continue approving increases while families struggle.<br/><br/>We also expose the growing role of massive AI data centers — and how they could lock Michigan residents into even higher energy costs for years to come.<br/><br/>This isn’t left vs right. It’s about fairness, transparency, and who actually benefits.<br/><br/></p><p><a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm?new=1'><b><em>Support the show for as little as $1</em></b></a><b><em> (link is clickable) </em></b></p><p><b>Chapters</b><br/><br/><b>00:00 The Rising Costs of Energy in Michigan<br/>03:07 Utility Companies and Rate Hikes<br/>06:37 Reliability Issues and Infrastructure Failures<br/>09:43 Renewable Energy and Incentives<br/>12:37 Comparing Michigan to Ohio&apos;s Energy Policies<br/>15:27 The Impact of AI Data Centers on Michigan<br/>20:16 Conclusion: The Need for Change in Michigan&apos;s Energy Sector</b></p><p><b> Stuff That Actually Helps With Michigan Bills &amp; Outages</b><br/>(Great after our electric bill &amp; data center episodes)</p><p><b><em>• Kasa Smart Plug 2-Pack (tracks energy &amp; kills vampire power)</em></b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4bz5gWi'>https://amzn.to/4bz5gWi</a></p><p><b><em>• P3 Kill A Watt Monitor (see exactly what your appliances cost)</em></b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rzNIOQ'>https://amzn.to/4rzNIOQ</a></p><p><b><em>• FosPower Hand-Crank Emergency Radio (ready for outages)</em></b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/40XyjNa'>https://amzn.to/40XyjNa</a></p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></content:encoded>
    <enclosure url="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/episodes/18702807-michigan-s-electric-bill-scam-paying-more-for-worse-power.mp3" length="15492213" type="audio/mpeg" />
    <itunes:image href="https://storage.buzzsprout.com/7b72ux6wp0uwlfplldxpi8u5g3kn?.jpg" />
    <itunes:author>Joe</itunes:author>
    <guid isPermaLink="false">Buzzsprout-18702807</guid>
    <pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
    <itunes:duration>1286</itunes:duration>
    <itunes:keywords>Michigan politics, electric rates, cost of living, energy policy, power outages, infrastructure, public utilities, AI data centers, middle ground politics</itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
    <itunes:episode>7</itunes:episode>
    <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
    <itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
  </item>
  <item>
    <itunes:title>Who Is Really Calling the Shots on Iran?</itunes:title>
    <title>Who Is Really Calling the Shots on Iran?</title>
    <itunes:summary><![CDATA[Send us Fan Mail Iran is at its weakest point in decades — but that doesn’t mean it’s safe.  Joe Steagall and foreign policy expert Ron Bee examine the real power dynamics behind Iran’s crisis: the brutal repression of protesters, the shift toward nuclear brinkmanship, Israel’s growing alarm, and why the next 30 days matter more than most headlines admit.  This episode breaks down military strategy, diplomacy, and the human cost often ignored in the noise.  If you want outrage without underst...]]></itunes:summary>
    <description><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>Iran is at its weakest point in decades — but that doesn’t mean it’s safe.<br/><br/>Joe Steagall and foreign policy expert Ron Bee examine the real power dynamics behind Iran’s crisis: the brutal repression of protesters, the shift toward nuclear brinkmanship, Israel’s growing alarm, and why the next 30 days matter more than most headlines admit.<br/><br/>This episode breaks down military strategy, diplomacy, and the human cost often ignored in the noise.<br/><br/>If you want outrage without understanding, look elsewhere.<br/>If you want context before everything changes, press play.<br/><br/>The MiddleGround Mic.<br/>No Left. No Right. Forward.<br/><br/></p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>Iran is at its weakest point in decades — but that doesn’t mean it’s safe.<br/><br/>Joe Steagall and foreign policy expert Ron Bee examine the real power dynamics behind Iran’s crisis: the brutal repression of protesters, the shift toward nuclear brinkmanship, Israel’s growing alarm, and why the next 30 days matter more than most headlines admit.<br/><br/>This episode breaks down military strategy, diplomacy, and the human cost often ignored in the noise.<br/><br/>If you want outrage without understanding, look elsewhere.<br/>If you want context before everything changes, press play.<br/><br/>The MiddleGround Mic.<br/>No Left. No Right. Forward.<br/><br/></p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></content:encoded>
    <enclosure url="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/episodes/18687908-who-is-really-calling-the-shots-on-iran.mp3" length="32675958" type="audio/mpeg" />
    <itunes:image href="https://storage.buzzsprout.com/boa7dj5i0thhvggtzc7756c8zn9m?.jpg" />
    <itunes:author>Joe</itunes:author>
    <guid isPermaLink="false">Buzzsprout-18687908</guid>
    <pubDate>Sun, 15 Feb 2026 13:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
    <itunes:duration>2718</itunes:duration>
    <itunes:keywords>Iran, Middle East, nuclear weapons, Israel, foreign policy, military strategy, international relations, regime change, sanctions, diplomacy, geopolitics, protests in Iran, global security, political analysis, MiddleGround Mic</itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
    <itunes:episode>6</itunes:episode>
    <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
    <itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
  </item>
  <item>
    <itunes:title>Burr’s Treason Setup = Trump’s Indictments? History’s Dirty Playbook Revealed</itunes:title>
    <title>Burr’s Treason Setup = Trump’s Indictments? History’s Dirty Playbook Revealed</title>
    <itunes:summary><![CDATA[Send us Fan Mail What if every “unprecedented” crisis is just history hitting replay?  Dennis Brennan—former politician and attorney—connects the dots between Aaron Burr and Donald Trump.  Burr: Revolutionary hero turned “traitor” through elite attacks, media hatchet jobs, and weaponized courts. Trump: Endless indictments, nonstop lawfare, and the same institutional resistance—200+ years later.  We rip into media bias dating back to Hamilton, government waste, subsidy scams jacking up prices,...]]></itunes:summary>
    <description><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>What if every “unprecedented” crisis is just history hitting replay?<br/><br/>Dennis Brennan—former politician and attorney—connects the dots between Aaron Burr and Donald Trump.<br/><br/>Burr: Revolutionary hero turned “traitor” through elite attacks, media hatchet jobs, and weaponized courts.<br/>Trump: Endless indictments, nonstop lawfare, and the same institutional resistance—200+ years later.<br/><br/>We rip into media bias dating back to Hamilton, government waste, subsidy scams jacking up prices, socialism creeping in through policy, and why the outrage machine keeps Americans divided.<br/><br/>This one hurts… but knowledge is power.<br/><br/>Go deeper with Dennis Brennan’s book:<br/>D.C. Swamp Strikes Back →<br/>https://www.amazon.com/D-C-Swamp-Strikes-Back-separated/dp/B0FH66PHNL<br/><br/>Patterns aren’t coincidences—they’re warnings.<br/>What’s YOUR take? Hit play and let’s talk.</p><p><br/>Chapters<br/><br/>00:00 Introduction to Chaos and Politics<br/>02:44 Cultural Fights vs. Economic Issues<br/>11:27 The Role of Power and Accountability<br/>14:06 Populism and the Working Class<br/>17:06 Healthcare and Economic Policies<br/>19:52 Historical Patterns in Politics<br/>22:52 The Influence of Charismatic Leaders<br/>25:36 The Impact of Political Divisions<br/>28:23 The Role of the Media in Politics<br/>31:00 The Future of Political Discourse<br/>33:57 Conclusion: Learning from History<br/>56:24 newsPolitics-underscore-high.wav<br/><br/></p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>What if every “unprecedented” crisis is just history hitting replay?<br/><br/>Dennis Brennan—former politician and attorney—connects the dots between Aaron Burr and Donald Trump.<br/><br/>Burr: Revolutionary hero turned “traitor” through elite attacks, media hatchet jobs, and weaponized courts.<br/>Trump: Endless indictments, nonstop lawfare, and the same institutional resistance—200+ years later.<br/><br/>We rip into media bias dating back to Hamilton, government waste, subsidy scams jacking up prices, socialism creeping in through policy, and why the outrage machine keeps Americans divided.<br/><br/>This one hurts… but knowledge is power.<br/><br/>Go deeper with Dennis Brennan’s book:<br/>D.C. Swamp Strikes Back →<br/>https://www.amazon.com/D-C-Swamp-Strikes-Back-separated/dp/B0FH66PHNL<br/><br/>Patterns aren’t coincidences—they’re warnings.<br/>What’s YOUR take? Hit play and let’s talk.</p><p><br/>Chapters<br/><br/>00:00 Introduction to Chaos and Politics<br/>02:44 Cultural Fights vs. Economic Issues<br/>11:27 The Role of Power and Accountability<br/>14:06 Populism and the Working Class<br/>17:06 Healthcare and Economic Policies<br/>19:52 Historical Patterns in Politics<br/>22:52 The Influence of Charismatic Leaders<br/>25:36 The Impact of Political Divisions<br/>28:23 The Role of the Media in Politics<br/>31:00 The Future of Political Discourse<br/>33:57 Conclusion: Learning from History<br/>56:24 newsPolitics-underscore-high.wav<br/><br/></p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></content:encoded>
    <enclosure url="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/episodes/18672890-burr-s-treason-setup-trump-s-indictments-history-s-dirty-playbook-revealed.mp3" length="40672039" type="audio/mpeg" />
    <itunes:image href="https://storage.buzzsprout.com/1g96x0xljwlbcmjk4qnul9nfwcvh?.jpg" />
    <itunes:author>Joe</itunes:author>
    <guid isPermaLink="false">Buzzsprout-18672890</guid>
    <pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 02:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
    <itunes:duration>3384</itunes:duration>
    <itunes:keywords>drain the swamp,Aaron Burr,Donald Trump,lawfare exposed,deep state corruption,weaponized justice,media lies,government waste,anti establishment,uncensored politics,Big Pharma corruption,illegal immigration,ICE enforcement,elite control,American decline,tr</itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
    <itunes:episode>5</itunes:episode>
    <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
    <itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
  </item>
  <item>
    <itunes:title>Michigan 2026 Is a Powder Keg: Benson, Duggan, Ballot Wars &amp; Who Really Controls Elections</itunes:title>
    <title>Michigan 2026 Is a Powder Keg: Benson, Duggan, Ballot Wars &amp; Who Really Controls Elections</title>
    <itunes:summary><![CDATA[Send us Fan Mail Michigan isn’t just voting for a governor in 2026 — it’s replacing the people who run elections, enforce the rules, and decide disputes when things go sideways.  In Episode One of Raging MI Moderates, we break down five races that decide everything: Governor, Secretary of State, U.S. Senate, a critical Michigan Senate special election, and the Michigan Supreme Court.  We cover the Benson voter-roll controversy, Duggan’s independent shockwave, national money flooding Michigan,...]]></itunes:summary>
    <description><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>Michigan isn’t just voting for a governor in 2026 — it’s replacing the people who run elections, enforce the rules, and decide disputes when things go sideways.<br/><br/>In Episode One of Raging MI Moderates, we break down five races that decide everything:<br/>Governor, Secretary of State, U.S. Senate, a critical Michigan Senate special election, and the Michigan Supreme Court.<br/><br/>We cover the Benson voter-roll controversy, Duggan’s independent shockwave, national money flooding Michigan, and the ballot initiative built to drive outrage and turnout.<br/><br/>This is not partisan noise. It’s power, trust, and incentives — explained clearly, aggressively, and with receipts.<br/><br/>Follow the show to stay ahead of Michigan’s 2026 election chaos.</p><p>Chapters:</p><ol><li>Introduction to Michigan&apos;s 2026 Election Landscape</li><li>The Stakes: Power Shifts and Trust Collapse</li><li>Governor&apos;s Race: Key Players and Dynamics</li><li>US Senate Race: National Attention and Local Impact</li><li>Secretary of State: The Real Power Job</li><li>Special Elections: Quiet Power Shifts</li><li>Michigan Supreme Court: The Overlooked Battleground</li><li>Ballot Issues: Identity, Fear, and Moral Framing</li><li>Conclusion: Trust vs. Breakdown</li></ol><p><br/></p><p><br/><br/></p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>Michigan isn’t just voting for a governor in 2026 — it’s replacing the people who run elections, enforce the rules, and decide disputes when things go sideways.<br/><br/>In Episode One of Raging MI Moderates, we break down five races that decide everything:<br/>Governor, Secretary of State, U.S. Senate, a critical Michigan Senate special election, and the Michigan Supreme Court.<br/><br/>We cover the Benson voter-roll controversy, Duggan’s independent shockwave, national money flooding Michigan, and the ballot initiative built to drive outrage and turnout.<br/><br/>This is not partisan noise. It’s power, trust, and incentives — explained clearly, aggressively, and with receipts.<br/><br/>Follow the show to stay ahead of Michigan’s 2026 election chaos.</p><p>Chapters:</p><ol><li>Introduction to Michigan&apos;s 2026 Election Landscape</li><li>The Stakes: Power Shifts and Trust Collapse</li><li>Governor&apos;s Race: Key Players and Dynamics</li><li>US Senate Race: National Attention and Local Impact</li><li>Secretary of State: The Real Power Job</li><li>Special Elections: Quiet Power Shifts</li><li>Michigan Supreme Court: The Overlooked Battleground</li><li>Ballot Issues: Identity, Fear, and Moral Framing</li><li>Conclusion: Trust vs. Breakdown</li></ol><p><br/></p><p><br/><br/></p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></content:encoded>
    <enclosure url="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/episodes/18653849-michigan-2026-is-a-powder-keg-benson-duggan-ballot-wars-who-really-controls-elections.mp3" length="13005336" type="audio/mpeg" />
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    <itunes:author>Joe</itunes:author>
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    <pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
    <itunes:duration>1077</itunes:duration>
    <itunes:keywords>Michigan elections, Michigan 2026, Michigan governor race, Michigan Secretary of State, election integrity, voter rolls Michigan, Jocelyn Benson controversy, Mike Duggan independent, Michigan Senate race, Michigan Supreme Court, ballot initiative Michigan</itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
    <itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode>
    <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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    <itunes:title>MiddleGround Productions Launch | No Left. No Right. Forward.</itunes:title>
    <title>MiddleGround Productions Launch | No Left. No Right. Forward.</title>
    <itunes:summary><![CDATA[Send us Fan Mail MiddleGround Productions officially launches —  From unredacted Epstein files reaching Congress, to Michigan families facing rising electric bills and failing infrastructure, to the collapse of public trust in media — this trailer sets the tone for what’s coming. Multiple shows. One direction. Forward. Subscribe now and follow the network across all platforms. Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm  Subscribe for as little as $5 monthl...]]></itunes:summary>
    <description><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>MiddleGround Productions officially launches — </p><p>From unredacted Epstein files reaching Congress, to Michigan families facing rising electric bills and failing infrastructure, to the collapse of public trust in media — this trailer sets the tone for what’s coming.</p><p>Multiple shows. One direction. Forward.</p><p>Subscribe now and follow the network across all platforms.</p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>MiddleGround Productions officially launches — </p><p>From unredacted Epstein files reaching Congress, to Michigan families facing rising electric bills and failing infrastructure, to the collapse of public trust in media — this trailer sets the tone for what’s coming.</p><p>Multiple shows. One direction. Forward.</p><p>Subscribe now and follow the network across all platforms.</p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></content:encoded>
    <enclosure url="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/episodes/18642138-middleground-productions-launch-no-left-no-right-forward.mp3" length="442885" type="audio/mpeg" />
    <itunes:author>Joe</itunes:author>
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    <pubDate>Sun, 08 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
    <itunes:duration>33</itunes:duration>
    <itunes:keywords>MiddleGround Productions, independent media, centrist podcast, political commentary, true crime podcast, media accountability, Michigan politics, Epstein files, government transparency, no left no right, independent journalism, podcast network</itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
    <itunes:episode>3</itunes:episode>
    <itunes:episodeType>trailer</itunes:episodeType>
    <itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
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    <itunes:title>2026 Michigan Governor Candidate Chris Swanson: Unfiltered on Protests, Mental Health &amp; Leadership</itunes:title>
    <title>2026 Michigan Governor Candidate Chris Swanson: Unfiltered on Protests, Mental Health &amp; Leadership</title>
    <itunes:summary><![CDATA[Send us Fan Mail ☕ Support long-form conversations that actually matter: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm   In this full, unfiltered conversation, The MiddleGround Mic host Joe sits down with Chris Swanson, Genesee County Sheriff and 2026 Michigan Governor candidate, to talk through real leadership when things break down. This episode goes beyond talking points and refuses extreme agendas from either side. Swanson walks through how he led thousands during the 2020 protests in Flint and Genesee C...]]></itunes:summary>
    <description><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>☕ <b>Support long-form conversations that actually matter:</b> <a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm'>https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm</a><br/><br/></p><p>In this <b>full, unfiltered conversation</b>, <em>The MiddleGround Mic</em> host Joe sits down with <b>Chris Swanson</b>, Genesee County Sheriff and <b>2026 Michigan Governor candidate</b>, to talk through real leadership when things break down.</p><p>This episode goes beyond talking points and refuses extreme agendas from either side. Swanson walks through how he led thousands during the 2020 protests in Flint and Genesee County <b>with zero arrests and zero injuries</b>, why separating people in mental health crisis from weapons saves lives, how community trust is built instead of demanded, and what he believes is broken in Michigan — with practical ways forward.</p><p>This isn’t a clip.<br/> It isn’t outrage.<br/> It’s a <b>long-form conversation focused on solutions</b>.</p><p>If you believe progress comes from honest discussion, accountability, and rejecting political extremes, this episode is for you.</p><p> 📺 Watch on YouTube: <a href='https://youtu.be/wxIfGa2dzN4'>https://youtu.be/wxIfGa2dzN4</a><br/> ☕ Support the show to keep these conversations going</p><p>No Left. No Right. Forward.</p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>☕ <b>Support long-form conversations that actually matter:</b> <a href='https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm'>https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm</a><br/><br/></p><p>In this <b>full, unfiltered conversation</b>, <em>The MiddleGround Mic</em> host Joe sits down with <b>Chris Swanson</b>, Genesee County Sheriff and <b>2026 Michigan Governor candidate</b>, to talk through real leadership when things break down.</p><p>This episode goes beyond talking points and refuses extreme agendas from either side. Swanson walks through how he led thousands during the 2020 protests in Flint and Genesee County <b>with zero arrests and zero injuries</b>, why separating people in mental health crisis from weapons saves lives, how community trust is built instead of demanded, and what he believes is broken in Michigan — with practical ways forward.</p><p>This isn’t a clip.<br/> It isn’t outrage.<br/> It’s a <b>long-form conversation focused on solutions</b>.</p><p>If you believe progress comes from honest discussion, accountability, and rejecting political extremes, this episode is for you.</p><p> 📺 Watch on YouTube: <a href='https://youtu.be/wxIfGa2dzN4'>https://youtu.be/wxIfGa2dzN4</a><br/> ☕ Support the show to keep these conversations going</p><p>No Left. No Right. Forward.</p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></content:encoded>
    <enclosure url="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/episodes/18604526-2026-michigan-governor-candidate-chris-swanson-unfiltered-on-protests-mental-health-leadership.mp3" length="32576735" type="audio/mpeg" />
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    <itunes:author>Joe</itunes:author>
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    <pubDate>Sun, 01 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
    <itunes:duration>2710</itunes:duration>
    <itunes:keywords>Michigan governor 2026, Chris Swanson interview, Michigan politics, leadership in crisis, community policing, mental health response, long form political interview, centrist politics, rejecting extremes, independent voters</itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
    <itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode>
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    <itunes:title>Epstein in Michigan:  Accountability, and the Fight for Justice</itunes:title>
    <title>Epstein in Michigan:  Accountability, and the Fight for Justice</title>
    <itunes:summary><![CDATA[Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Middle Ground Michigan, Joe breaks down the latest revelations surrounding Jeffrey Epstein, grooming, and accountability — with a specific focus on Michigan and the responsibility communities have to protect children and support survivors. Using newly released documents and verified reporting, Joe walks through how Epstein’s first known victim was groomed at a Michigan arts camp, what the records reveal about broader patterns of elite protection, and how in...]]></itunes:summary>
    <description><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>In this episode of <em>Middle Ground Michigan</em>, Joe breaks down the latest revelations surrounding <b>Jeffrey Epstein</b>, grooming, and accountability — with a specific focus on <b>Michigan</b> and the responsibility communities have to protect children and support survivors.</p><p>Using newly released documents and verified reporting, Joe walks through how Epstein’s first known victim was groomed at a Michigan arts camp, what the records reveal about broader patterns of elite protection, and how institutions responded once the truth surfaced.</p><p>This conversation isn’t about outrage for clicks. It’s about <b>justice, awareness, and prevention</b>.</p><p><b><em>We discuss:</em></b></p><ul><li>Grooming tactics used by predators and why they’re often hard to spot</li><li>The impact of the document releases and what they confirm</li><li>How the Michigan community responded once Epstein’s past was known</li><li>Why many victims never come forward — and why that matters</li><li>The need for transparency, accountability, and stronger safeguards</li></ul><p><br/></p><p><b> 00:00 – The Epstein Case Unveiled<br/> 02:44 – Grooming Tactics and Victim Stories<br/> 04:42 – Community Response and Accountability</b></p><p>No left.<br/> No right.<br/> Forward — for Michigan.</p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/2592190/fan_mail/new">Send us Fan Mail</a></p><p>In this episode of <em>Middle Ground Michigan</em>, Joe breaks down the latest revelations surrounding <b>Jeffrey Epstein</b>, grooming, and accountability — with a specific focus on <b>Michigan</b> and the responsibility communities have to protect children and support survivors.</p><p>Using newly released documents and verified reporting, Joe walks through how Epstein’s first known victim was groomed at a Michigan arts camp, what the records reveal about broader patterns of elite protection, and how institutions responded once the truth surfaced.</p><p>This conversation isn’t about outrage for clicks. It’s about <b>justice, awareness, and prevention</b>.</p><p><b><em>We discuss:</em></b></p><ul><li>Grooming tactics used by predators and why they’re often hard to spot</li><li>The impact of the document releases and what they confirm</li><li>How the Michigan community responded once Epstein’s past was known</li><li>Why many victims never come forward — and why that matters</li><li>The need for transparency, accountability, and stronger safeguards</li></ul><p><br/></p><p><b> 00:00 – The Epstein Case Unveiled<br/> 02:44 – Grooming Tactics and Victim Stories<br/> 04:42 – Community Response and Accountability</b></p><p>No left.<br/> No right.<br/> Forward — for Michigan.</p><p>Please support the show for as little as $1: https://buymeacoffee.com/tmgm<br/><br/>Subscribe for as little as $5 monthly and get insider access to all three shows from MiddleGround Productions (The MiddleGround Mic, Fractured Justice: True Crime)</p><p><b>🎙️ Gear used on the show (Raging Michigan Moderates</b>)<br/><br/><b><em>Camera</em></b></p><p><b>• Webcam – Logitech C922x</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4deSoG4'>https://amzn.to/4deSoG4</a></p><p><b>• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (For outdoor vlogging &amp; Episodes)</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rkviS0'>https://amzn.to/4rkviS0</a><br/><br/><b><em>Microphone</em></b></p><p><b>• Lavalier Mic – NEEWER CM28 PRO Wireless</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a></p><p><b>• Shure MV6 USB Microphone</b><br/><a href='https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU'>https://amzn.to/4rXhPjU</a></p><p><b><em>Headphones</em></b></p><p>     <b>• Shure Professional Studio Headphones</b><br/>        <a href='https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw'>https://amzn.to/3OP9UXw</a><br/><br/></p>]]></content:encoded>
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    <itunes:author>Joe</itunes:author>
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    <pubDate>Sun, 01 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
    <itunes:duration>463</itunes:duration>
    <itunes:keywords>Epstein, Michigan, accountability, justice, victims, community safety, child protection, predator awareness, Epstein files, Michigan podcast, transparency, survivor support, prevention</itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:season>1</itunes:season>
    <itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode>
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