Reclaiming My Mind

What does it take to step away from the two-party status quo and run for Congress as a third-party candidate?In this episode of Reclaiming My Mind, we sit down with 20-year U.S. Navy veteran, father, and Libertarian candidate for Florida’s 14th Congressional District, Brian Lambert. After spending two decades in military service and traveling the country with his family, Brian took his oath to defend the Constitution into a new arena: challenging career politicians in Tampa Bay.

With Jessica Vaughn, Brian Lambert Download MP3 (58.7 MB)

How does a middle school teacher launch a viral, youth-driven digital movement to shake up state politics? In this episode of our Getting to Know Your Candidates series, we talk with Florida House District 65 candidate Ben Braver. We dive into his youth-focused social media campaign and the bold, kitchen-table ideas he’s proposing for everyday Floridians—from tackling monopolistic landlords and out-of-control housing costs to fixing urban sprawl with real public transit. Tune in to hear how Ben plans to bring transparency, worker-first economics, and a teacher's perspective to Tallahassee.

With Jessica Vaughn, Ben Braver Download MP3 (41.9 MB)

What happens when you bring over 20 years of real classroom and district leadership experience to the School Board table? In this episode, we sit down with Daniela Simic, candidate for Hillsborough County School Board, District 2. As a public school parent, former teacher, and former Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Daniela shares her deep passion for educator support, student success, and keeping true educational expertise at the center of district governance. Tune in to hear her roadmap for giving every student in our community a real chance to thrive.

With Jessica Vaughn, Daniela Simic Download MP3 (45.7 MB)

On this episode of Reclaiming My Mind, we’re diving deep into the future of Hillsborough County Public Schools with District 3 school board candidate Coach Chris Taylor. With a unique perspective shaped as a former classroom teacher, dedicated coach, and former president of the Hillsborough Education Foundation, Chris has seen our education system from the sidelines, the front lines, and the boardroom. Join us as we discuss what it really takes to support our educators, champion transparency, and draw up a winning playbook for our students and community.

With Jessica Vaughn, Chris Taylor Download MP3 (59.0 MB)

In this powerful edition of Reclaiming My Mind, we are joined by a true force for change in Florida politics: State Representative and U.S. Senate candidate Angie Nixon.Representative Nixon has never been one to sit quietly when justice is on the line. Recently, the Florida House Rules and Ethics Committee formally reprimanded her for using a bullhorn on the House floor to passionately protest what she, and many others, denounced as illegal and unconstitutional gerrymandering. But the discipline didn't stop her. Just one day after the reprimand, Angie was arrested during a peaceful, hours-long sit-in protest outside Governor Ron DeSantis’s office, where she and her constituents demanded a meeting to challenge the newly drawn congressional maps.Angie refuses to let voters' representation be stripped away in silence. Tune in to hear an incredibly inspiring interview as she opens up about the cost of fighting for democracy, the courage it takes to disrupt the status quo, and her compelling platform as she takes her fight to the national stage.

With Jessica Vaughn, Angie Nixon Download MP3 (55.2 MB)

As Plant City faces a pivotal moment of expansion, how do we ensure we don't lose the charm and safety that make it home? In this episode, we’re joined by Camryn Henry, a candidate for City Commission Group 4 who is drawing a line in the sand against reckless development.A mother and a fierce advocate for "family first" governance, Camryn brings a unique, grounded perspective to the table. We discuss her commitment to sustainable growth—ensuring infrastructure and resources keep pace with new building—and her deep-rooted passion for public safety. With a partner on the front lines as a first responder, Camryn understands the necessity of fully supporting our fire and police departments to keep our neighborhoods secure.Join us for an inspiring conversation about why Camryn is the "real deal" for Plant City: a leader who prioritizes the safety of our children, the integrity of our historic downtown, and a future where growth never comes at the expense of community.

With Jessica Vaughn, Camryn Henry Download MP3 (44.0 MB)

In this installment of our Get to Know Your Candidate series, we sit down with public educator and community advocate Kell Cameron.Running for Florida State House District 65, Kell brings a passionate, "people-first" perspective to the critical issues facing our region. We discuss his commitment to solving the housing and insurance crisis, his fierce advocacy for public education, and his vision for a more inclusive Florida. Tune in to hear why this South Tampa teacher is ready to take his community-driven leadership to Tallahassee.

With Jessica Vaughn, Kell Cameron Download MP3 (39.6 MB)

In this episode of Reclaiming My Mind, we sit down with Tampa Mayoral candidate Alan Henderson. Representing a new generation of leadership, Henderson brings a fresh, energetic perspective to the future of our city. We dive deep into his granular, data-driven plan for urban improvement—moving beyond broad promises to explore the specific strategies he believes will transform Tampa’s infrastructure, housing, and community services.Tune in for a conversation about passion, policy, and what it takes to build a more functional city for every resident.

With Jessica Vaughn, Alan Henderson Download MP3 (44.7 MB)

Join Stephanie Vazquez as she transitions from her background in the military and anti-human trafficking to running for Pasco County Commission. Discover her platform for a safer, more transparent, and sustainably grown community.

With Jessica Vaughn, Stephanie Vazquez Download MP3 (41.1 MB)

What happens when a town known for its history meets the momentum of the future? In this episode of Reclaiming My Mind, we sit down with "homegrown" candidate Tony Bernard Smith. Tony’s running for Plant City Commission Group 3 with a clear mission: ensuring that as the city grows, no resident gets left behind. We dive into his vision for an accessible Plant City and how his deep local roots are fueling his energetic push for progress.

With Jessica Vaughn, Tony Bernard Smith Download MP3 (41.3 MB)

Brandt Robinson is running for Congress with momentum, purpose, and a deep commitment to public education. In this episode, we talk about standing up to Moms for Liberty, challenging Anna Paulina Luna, and why this moment—and this race—matters so much for Florida and the country. I learned a lot. You will too.

With Jessica Vaughn, Brandt Robinson Download MP3 (59.1 MB)

Ever wish politics felt more human? Same. This episode with Dr. Neil Manimala, Hillsborough County Commission District 5 Countywide candidate, was smart, thoughtful, and genuinely fun—like talking to someone you could easily chat with for hours.We cover what the County Commission does, how decisions about budgets, transportation, nonprofit funding, affordable housing, and infrastructure impact your daily life—and why Neil believes local government should be accessible, transparent, and people-first.This conversation is full of laughs, clarity, and real insight into why Neil Manimala is someone worth voting for.

With Jessica Vaughn, Dr. Neil Manimala Download MP3 (66.8 MB)

As part of our Education Series, please join us for a conversation with longtime public school advocates Damaris Allen and Ami Marie Granger Welch. Together, we will discuss the dangers that Schools of Hope and school co-location pose to our public schools. Learn how we got here, what this means for public education in Florida, and how you can take action to help.

With Jessica Vaughn, Damaris Allen, Ami Marie Granger Welch Download MP3 (66.3 MB)