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In this episode, Alishba Javaid talks to Jan McDowell, running for the United States House of Representatives.  She hopes to defeat incumbent Republican Beth Van Duyne, but first, she has to win a Primary Runoff Election coming up on May 24.  She is running in District 24, which covers parts of Dallas, suburbs of North Dallas, Mid-Cities, and suburbs of north Fort Worth, against Derrik Gay in the Democratic Primary Runoff.  In this episode she talks about how her background as a CPA helps her analyze issues of importance, like the economy, and she discusses other issues most important to her, like climate change!  Tune in and learn more.  Read more about her campaign on her website here. Check out the Texas Tribune Primary Runoff Voter Guide here. You can find that here.Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website. The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas.WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponents

Punam Kaji talks to Jay Kleberg, a candidate in the Primary Runoff for Texas Land Commissioner.  This is a state-wide office heading to a Primary runoff on both the democratic side, and the republican side.  Jay is running in the Democratic Primary Runoff, which takes place on May 24, and early voting is May 16-May20.  In this episode, Jay explains what this office does,  from education, to veteran's services, to our environment.  Jay discusses how this office can be better used to combat climate change and help Texans  impacted by natural disasters. To learn more about Jay Kleberg, visit his website here. Check out the Texas Tribune Primary Runoff Voter Guide here. Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website. The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas. WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponents.

Punam Kaji talks to Derrik Gay, running for the United States House of Representatives.  He hopes to defeat incumbent Republican Beth Van Duyne, but first, he has to win a Primary Runoff Election coming up on May 24.  He is running in District 24, which covers parts of Dallas, suburbs of North Dallas, Mid-Cities, and suburbs of north Fort Worth.  Derrik is a former marine, so he knows what it means to feel called to service.  This time, he felt called to public service by running for office after the January 6 attack on the capitol.  He is most focused on restoring democracy & voting rights, and economic solutions for Texans.   Read more about him campaign on his website here. Check out the Texas Tribune Primary Runoff Voter Guide here.   In the interview, Punam and Derrik refer to the Texas Tribune redistricting map to help you find your district.  You can find that here.   Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website. The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas. WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponents

In this episode, host Areeba Amer talks to Farha Ahmed, running for City Council At-Large Position 2 in Sugar Land, Texas.  Sugar Land is a suburb in Houston area with a large South Asian population.  Farha talks about the power of running as an immigrant and a South Asian and how that allows her to work with other communities, and also inspire more people to run.   She is running in the local elections on May 7.  Learn more about Farha on her website, here.  Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website. The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas. WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponent

In this episode, hear from Alex Cornwallis, running for State Board of Education, Place 12.  This seat is up for election in November 2022 and helps shape our Texas schools.  Place 12 includes a number of North Texas counties, including all of Collin county.  Hear Alex's perspective about running as a South Asian candidate and amplifying the issues important to South Asian students and parents.   You can learn more about Alex Cornwallis on his website, here.   Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website. The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas. WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponent.

In this episode, host Punam Kaji talks to Executive Director of AAPI Victory Alliance, Varun Nikore. AAPI Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) are receiving national attention with a rapidly growing population and an activated electorate.  Hear how AAPI voters in Texas have become a focus of the national org, AAPI Victory Alliance. About Varun: For more than 30 years, Mr. Nikore has been involved in national, state and local politics as a campaign strategist, fundraiser and policy advisor. In 1998, Mr. Nikore was appointed to serve in the Clinton Administration. He is founder and past-President of the Indian American Leadership Initiative, the largest Indian American network of Democrats in the U.S., and the Executive Director of the AAPI Victory Alliance. Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website. The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas. WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponent.

Host Punam Kaji talks to Jared Ross about upcoming the local election on May 7, 2022 and what is at stake for Texans!  Jared is a candidate for Birdville ISD Board of Trustee, and he asked to join the podcast to spread the word to our South Asian followers about the importance of local elections - particularly the school board.  On this episode, Jared helps educate our listeners about local elections.  Punam asked him about the topic that has become an issue in school elections: "critical race theory."  Jared explains that he gets the question when he knocks on doors, and explains his answer in this episode.   Learn more about Jared Ross on his website.   Facebook.com/ross4bisd Twitter/Instagram @ross4bisd Jared also has a Youtube Channel linked here.   Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website. The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas. WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponent.

Alishba Javaid talks to Zohaib “Zo” Qadri, a progressive leader running for Austin City Council District 9.  If he wins he would be the first South Asian and first Muslim in the Austin City Council.  Zohaib talks about housing insecurity and the unhoused population in Austin.  He talks about representation and the importance of running for office as a South Asian.  He shares a personal story about changing his career path from pre-med to public service.  Tune in to learn more!  The Austin City Council race will be on the ballot in November 2022, during the big general midterm election we are calling the Masala Midterm!  Learn more about Zohaib on his website here.  Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website. The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas. WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponents.

WiseUp TX leaders Punam Kaji and Azra Siddiqi talk about that Texas Primary Results!  The BIG Masala Midterm being this November, but over the last few weeks, Texans went out to vote in the primary to decide who will be on the ballot in November.  Only about 1 out of 5 registered voters voted in the Primary.  Tune in to find out which candidates are heading to the Runoffs in May, and hear about some exciting South Asian candidates trailblazing the way for leadership in Texas.    Donate to WiseUp TX and support our work on our website here.   WIseUp TX is a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan nonprofit and does not endorse any candidates or political party. 

Punam Kaji talks to Jessica Huynh, running for District Court Judge (331st) in Travis County. Have you studied your full ballot?  In addition to Governor and state wide offices, there are many Judges on the ballot!  Jessica talks about the importance of having understanding and empathy for the people who enter the courtroom, and her experience as an Asian American attorney and candidate.   Read more about her campaign on her website here. Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website. The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas. WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponents

Punam Kaji talks to Joy Diaz running for Governor of Texas as a Democrat.  She talks about the importance of being pragmatic and unifying.  She reminds our listeners that it is so important to come out and vote in this Primary! Learn more about Joy by visiting her website here.   Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website. The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas. WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponent

Punam Kaji talks to Dr. Suleman Lalani, a candidate for Texas State House in Fort Bend area (suburbs of Houston).  This is an Asian Opportunity  district, meaning census data showed a substantial Asian population in this area!  Dr. Lalani talks about much needed reforms to healthcare and education, and the importance of voting for the Asian community. Learn more about Dr. Lalani on his website. Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website. The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas. WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponent

Punam Kaji talks to Donna Imam, running for the United States House of Representatives.  She is running as a democrat in the 37th District, which covers a good portion of Austin, Texas.  Among other things, Donna talks about how she would tackle the increasing cost of living in Texas, including housing prices.  She shares how her last run for the U.S. House helped turnout a large base of voters, and how she hopes to inspire people to come out and vote in the Primary and the Midterm this year.  Read more about her campaign on her website here. Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website. The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas. WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponents.

Punam Kaji talks to Manpreet (Monica) Singh, running for Judge of the Harris County Civil Court at Law #4.  Monica shares her journey as a court room lawyer, an activist  for organizations like Sikh Coalition and ACLU Texas, and now as a candidate for Judge.  She talks about her roots as a Houstonian, and a South Asian.   Read more about her campaign on her website here.   Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website. The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas. WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponents.

Punam Kaji talks to Charlie Gearing, a democratic candidate running for Texas State House District 114 (East Dallas). Charlie is an attorney who has dedicated much of his time to volunteerism and service work. Charlie talks about why Texans need medicaid expansion, the importance of education, and how we can all get more involved in the process this election season. Learn more about Charlie on his website. Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website. The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas.  WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponents.

Punam Kaji talks to Jinny Suh, a democratic candidate for Land Commissioner.  She explains what the Land Commissioner does - including its role in education and the environment. She is a community organizer, parent, attorney and small business owner.  She founded Immunize Texas, a grassroots network dedicated to supporting pro-vaccine legislation. She talks about being an Asian American woman  running for statewide office.  Learn more about Jinny Suh on her website.   Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website.  The WiseUp TX podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad – download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas. WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian descent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponents.

Areeba Amer talks to Salman Bhojani, a democratic candidate running for Texas State House District 92 (Mid-Cities of DFW).  Salman is a former City Councilman of Euless, a South Asian American and a small business owner. In this episode, he shares his passion for local government and more!  Learn more about Salman on his campaign website, here.  Learn more about WiseUp TX, volunteer, or donate on our website.    Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play and the WiseUp TX website. Also tune in on Radio Azad - download the app or 104.9 FM in Dallas. WiseUp TX is non-partisan and does not support any candidates or political party.  But, we love to hear from South Asian candidates, and other candidates who want to talk to our South Asian followers! WiseUp TX interviews candidates who (1) reach out to us (2) are running in regions with Asian population density and/or (3) are of South Asian decent. For the general election, WiseUp TX makes an effort to reach out to key opponents.

WiseUp TX Podcast Host Punam Kaji recaps everything we covered in 2021!  It was quite a year, kicking off with the inauguration of the first woman, Black, and South Asian person to be Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris.  Then, we focused on local elections before taking a summer break. The fall podcast season focused on laws that came out of the Texas Legislative Sessions, and the creation of new maps (redistricting).  In this episode, Punam focuses on why 2022 is a BIG election year (Governor, Congress, and Texas Lawmakers are all up for re-election).  Punam asks you to reflect: How will you get involved in 2022?  Let's make it a year for record-breaking South Asian voter turnout.  Let's vote all the way down the ballot as informed voters!   Thanks for listening and enjoy the holidays.  Tune back in 2022 for much more!  WiseUp TX is a nonpartisan nonprofit and does not support any candidate or political party.

Hear from Prerna Bhat, a member of the TX AAPI Redistricting Coalition, who testified six times in front of the Texas Legislature to advocate for voting maps that will keep the growing Asian community together and not dilute the power of the APA constituency.  During a special legislative session, Texas lawmakers created and passed new voting maps for Texas House Districts, Texas Senate Districts, and US Congressional Districts.  This only happens once every ten years, after new data from the census is collected.  The census showed that 95% of population growth in Texas came from community of color, but the new maps result in more majority-white districts.  Find your new district using this Texas Tribune article.  WiseUp TX is a nonpartisan nonprofit and does not support any candidate or political party. 

October was Domestic Violence Awareness Month, but organizations like Daya (Houston) provide resources to domestic violence survivors in the South Asian community year-round.  Pam Otal is a WiseUp TX board member and the Outreach & Volunteer coordinator for Daya (Houston). On this episode, Pam joins host, Punam Kaji, and shares how domestic violence impacts the South Asian community, and what orgs like Daya are doing to educate the community to help solve the issue and assist survivors in need.  South-Asian Centric Domestic Violence Resources: Daya - Houston   Chetna - DFW  Awaaz - San Antonio  AFSSA - Austin  Learn more about WiseUp TX here.  WiseUp TX is a non-partisan non-profit and does not support any political party or candidate.