A Break Down with Rochelle Olson: From the Newsroom to the Opinion Page
The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky
Release Date: 05/15/2025
A Break Down with Andy Brehm: From Baseball to Ballots
The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky
Welcome to another fantastic episode of ',' with and . This week, hosts Michael and Becky are joined by . Andy discusses his recent op-eds in the Star Tribune, . , focusing on the potential national impact and how it could aid President Trump's agenda. The episode also touches on the Texas redistricting battle, exploring the Republican efforts, the Democratic strategies, and potential national outcomes. Tune in for a compelling discussion on politics, policy, and current affairs! * 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction * 00:31 Minnesota Twins Trade Controversy * 06:05 Impact on Season...
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A Break Down About Special Elections, DSA Platform, Naked Man at the Capitol, and an Axe Murderer
The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky
Welcome to another fantastic episode of ',' with and . In this episode, they begin by discussing the upcoming special elections for three vacant seats in the Minnesota legislature, including those left vacant by the resignation of Senator Nicole Mitchell and the death of Senator Bruce Anderson. In a follow-up, they analyze Senator Mitchell's legal troubles and resignation. The duo then shifts focus to a bizarre incident at the Minnesota Capitol involving a naked man, examining the security lapses and implications for future legislative sessions. Continuing a discussion from , special guest ...
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A Break Down About Chaos at the Minneapolis DFL Convention
The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky
Welcome to the latest episode of ',' where and tackle the complex and chaotic world of politics and current affairs. This week, . The discussion then shifts to a detailed analysis with special guest , a communications advisor from Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey's campaign. They dive into the controversial events of the Minneapolis DFL endorsing convention, highlighting major issues such as a flawed electronic voting system, process failures, and the resulting endorsement of State Senator Omar Fateh. This episode offers an in-depth examination of the political shenanigans and their broader...
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July 17, 2025: A Break Down of Sen. Nicole Mitchell’s Trial, Epstein’s Client List Mystery, and Michael Brodkorb’s Substack Launch
The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky
Welcome back to ''! In this action-packed episode, hosts and cover a wide array of topics in Minnesota and national politics. They welcome guests, and , for a thought-provoking roundtable discussion. The episode begins with the ongoing trial of Senator Nicole Mitchell, delving into the body camera footage and the implications of her actions. The conversation then shifts to the notorious Jeffrey Epstein case and the mystery surrounding the non-existent client list. The spotlight also turns to Governor Tim Walz, examining his substantial legal fees related to a congressional hearing on...
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A Break Down of Sen. Nicole Mitchell’s Trial, Epstein’s Client List Mystery, and Michael Brodkorb’s Substack Launch
The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky
Welcome back to ''! In this action-packed episode, hosts and cover a wide array of topics in Minnesota and national politics. They welcome guests, and , for a thought-provoking roundtable discussion. The episode begins with the ongoing trial of Senator Nicole Mitchell, delving into the body camera footage and the implications of her actions. The conversation then shifts to the notorious Jeffrey Epstein case and the mystery surrounding the non-existent client list. The spotlight also turns to Governor Tim Walz, examining his substantial legal fees related to a congressional...
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A Break Down Reflecting Further on Political Violence in Minnesota
The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky
In this new episode of ',' co-hosts and pause from their usual political analysis to further address the , as well as . This heartfelt episode covers the upcoming funeral arrangements, how Minnesotans can pay their respects, and the ongoing grief faced by the community. Michael and Becky also delve into the alarming rise of political violence and the importance of responding with purpose and decency. Join them as they navigate through these tough times with honesty and empathy. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:15 Reflecting on the Tragedy 03:55 Honoring Speaker Emerita...
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Bonus Episode: 'Go F@&king Do Something' - Erich Mische's Call to Action
The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky
Welcome to a special bonus episode of '.' In this episode, talks with , a passionate nonprofit leader and political veteran known for his relentless drive and humor. Erich discusses his new book, '' which is a rallying cry to move from apathy to action. The conversation delves into Erich's journey, including floating down the Mississippi River on a homemade raft to raise awareness for families in crisis. Erich also speaks about the importance of civic engagement, social media's dangerous impact on kids and adults, and the necessity to challenge power structures. Don't miss this...
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A Break Down About Grief, Anger, and Hope in Minnesota
The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky
In this emotionally charged episode of ',' co-hosts and discuss Becky's return from maternity leave and the , as well as . The conversation dives into the rise of political violence, its implications for Minnesota politics, and how the state can move forward. Throughout the episode, donation links to support the victims' families are promoted. At the same time, Michael and Becky stress the importance of bipartisan support, responsible social media use, and maintaining civility in political discourse. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:41 Tragic Events Unfold 01:21 Becky's...
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A Break Down on Immigration and Misinformation with Bryan Strawser
The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky
Welcome to another episode of . is joined by and an expert with 30 years of experience in crisis management, business continuity, crisis communications, and global corporate security. The discussion revolves around two critical topics: the immigration standoff in California and the rampant misinformation surrounding a recent law enforcement raid in Minneapolis. Bryan provides a deep dive into the complexities of these issues, detailing the legal and policy nuances involved. They also explore the impact of misinformation spread through social media and by elected officials, emphasizing...
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A Break Down with Senator Heather Gustafson: Why Minnesota Needs an Inspector General
The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky
In this episode of , discusses government accountability with special guest . Representing Senate District 36 in the Minnesota Senate, . The discussion covers the need for this office, the importance of public trust in government, and the collaborative effort behind the bill. The episode also delves into the challenges of bipartisanship, the legislative process, and the office's role in preventing waste, fraud, and abuse. Don't miss this insightful episode that highlights pragmatic solutions for better governance. 00:00 Introduction to The Break Down Podcast 00:11 Meet...
info_outlineIn this episode of 'The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky,' host Michael Brodkorb welcomes Rochelle Olson, long-time journalist and current opinion columnist for the Star Tribune.
With co-host Becky Scherr on maternity leave, Michael dives deep into Rochelle's extensive journalism career covering Minnesota politics, her transition from reporting to opinion writing, and social media and misinformation challenges.
Rochelle shares her experiences covering high-profile trials like that of Derek Chauvin, the intersection of sports and politics, and offers valuable advice for aspiring journalists. Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation.
- 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
- 01:00 Rochelle Olson's Career Journey
- 01:16 Transition to Opinion Writing
- 02:42 Challenges of Opinion Writing
- 06:18 Covering High-Profile Trials
- 10:27 Balancing Mental Health in Journalism
- 14:02 Sports and Politics Intersection
- 20:48 Rochelle's Story About Tom Brady
- 22:31 Lady Gaga's Super Bowl Preparation
- 23:58 Social Media and Journalism
- 28:24 Misinformation in the Digital Age
- 34:23 Advice for Aspiring Journalists
- 38:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The Break Down with Brodkorb and Becky will return with a new episode next week!
Get full access to On The Record with Michael Brodkorb at michaelbrodkorb.substack.com/subscribe