Left In The Attic

Ana and Deep host Left in the Attic with special guest Hetal Doshi, a first-generation American, former deputy in the DOJ Antitrust Division under the Biden-Harris administration, now running for Colorado Attorney General. They discuss International Women’s Day and the value of multigenerational spaces, then Doshi shares her upbringing across the Deep South and how civil rights history shaped her path to law. Doshi explains antitrust as protecting competition, wages, and fair prices, and argues states must enforce existing laws as federal enforcers fall short. She outlines priorities as AG: defending Colorado from a lawless federal administration, “Trump-proofing” the economy through antitrust/consumer protection/workers’ rights, and protecting environmental freedom. They cover the DOJ’s Ticketmaster/Live Nation case, concerns about a sudden DOJ settlement, and broader media consolidation, ending with calls to support local businesses and submit public comments.Hetal’s campaign website: hetaltothemetal.com00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro00:23 International Women's Day Chat01:35 Astrology and Apps03:08 Why Intergenerational Matters05:04 Meet Hala Doshi06:09 Origin Story and the South09:02 Finding Antitrust Work12:07 Antitrust Explained Simply13:22 Colorado AG Race Context15:13 Why Run for Attorney General19:56 Three Priorities as AG22:36 Ticketmaster and Swifties23:12 Ticketmaster Case Overview24:33 How Big Is Ticketmaster26:09 Jury Trial And Sudden Settlement27:29 Affordability And Fee Squeeze29:46 Big Tech Monopolies And AI31:42 What A Real Remedy Looks Like33:00 States Can Keep Fighting34:00 Media Megamergers Ellison35:45 Why Paramount Warner Deal Matters38:08 Call To Action And Public Comments40:21 Where To Find The Campaign42:33 Wrap Up And ThanksMeet Your HostsAna Mitchell, Ph.D., is a former CDC scientist who was swept up in federal cuts and is now reinventing herself as a civic coach and creator. After a decade reducing disparities in health and education, she’s building Civically Fit (see civicallyfit.org) to make civic engagement accessible, authentic, and sustainable. A proud Latina and Colorado native, Ana is focused on helping people build community and power through everyday civic action. Deep Singh Badhesha is an attorney, political strategist, and government affairs professional with over a decade of experience shaping political campaigns and policy in Colorado. A former public school math teacher, Colorado Supreme Court clerk, and senior policy analyst, he now works across campaigns, ballot initiatives, and legislative fights. He’s South Asian, a new dad, and a longtime organizer who believes community—not saviors—will rebuild the Left. He also has way too many hot takes on everything stemming from food and sports to politics.  Links:Website: www.LeftInTheAttic.comInstagram: @leftintheatticpodTikTok: @left.in.the.atticEmail: LeftInTheAtticPod@gmail.comVoicemail: (303) 416-2846

Julie Gonzales, Colorado state senator and organizer for immigrant, voting and worker rights who refuses corporate PAC money. She discusses her Senate run to push affordability, universal care, and worker power. The conversation also reveals reports of nine secret ICE holding rooms in Colorado and examines how detention profits and surveillance expand immigration enforcement.

Ana and Deep interview Colorado Attorney General and gubernatorial candidate Phil Weiser about democratic accountability, Colorado resisting federal overreach, and his case for governor in a head-to-head primary against Senator Michael Bennet. Weiser describes his background as a first-generation American whose mother was born in a concentration camp, his clerkship with Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and his path through the Justice Department, academia, and the Obama White House to elected office. He argues Colorado needs a governor who will confront the Trump administration, citing his 54 lawsuits and criticizing Bennet for voting to confirm eight Trump cabinet picks, including Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins. They discuss housing and cost-of-living solutions, corporate landlord abuses, social media harms to kids, “Colorado Core,” mentoring, youth political engagement, and bipartisan work on the Tina Peters case. They also discuss a listener voicemail from Lucy in East Denver who asks about Ezra Klein’s book “Abundance” and critics to Klein’s arguments. The episode closes with a call for Democrats to attend caucus week March 3–7 and get involved in local party roles.Leave us a review on the apps! Call and leave a voicemail at (303) 416-2846.Info on the upcoming Democratic Caucus and Assemblies: Monday, February 9th, deadline to register as a Democrat in order to Caucus or become a DelegateTuesday, March 3rd at 6:30pm: Denver Precinct CaucusesSaturday, March 14th at 10:00am: Denver Democrats County Assembly Saturday, March 28th: Colorado Democratic Party State Assembly in PuebloDenver Democrats Caucus Info: https://www.denverdemocrats.org/caucus Colorado Democrats Caucus FAQ: https://www.coloradodems.org/caucus/faqRegister to Vote & Change Party Registration: https://www.sos.state.co.us/voter/pages/pub/olvr/verifyNewVoter.xhtml 00:00 Welcome and Guest Tease00:35 Sparkling Water Icebreaker02:34 Phil Weiser Intro03:07 Clerking for RBG04:36 Origin Story and Public Service06:35 Immigration and Rising Hate10:12 Emotional Moment and Cafecito Stories13:21 Governor Race Setup vs Bennet14:14 Why Run for Governor15:06 Standing Up to Trump Lawsuits17:34 Affordability and Housing Plan18:53 Corporate Power and Kids Future20:59 Call to Service21:50 Loneliness Connection Crisis23:15 Mentoring and Youth Belonging24:17 Campaign Fellows and Efficacy27:12 Showing Up and Trust28:09 Bipartisan Tina Peters Case30:11 Voicemail Abundance Debate32:51 Yes And Policy Nuance38:57 Caucus Week Call to Action43:10 Wrap Up and ReviewsMeet Your HostsAna Mitchell, Ph.D., is a former CDC scientist who was swept up in federal cuts and is now reinventing herself as a civic coach and creator. After a decade reducing disparities in health and education, she’s building Civically Fit (see civicallyfit.org) to make civic engagement accessible, authentic, and sustainable. A proud Latina and Colorado native, Ana is focused on helping people build community and power through everyday civic action. Deep Singh Badhesha is an attorney, political strategist, and government affairs professional with over a decade of experience shaping political campaigns and policy in Colorado. A former public school math teacher, Colorado Supreme Court clerk, and senior policy analyst, he now works across campaigns, ballot initiatives, and legislative fights. He’s South Asian, a new dad, and a longtime organizer who believes community—not saviors—will rebuild the Left. He also has way too many hot takes on everything stemming from food and sports to politics.  Links:Website: www.LeftInTheAttic.comInstagram: @leftintheatticpodTikTok: @left.in.the.atticEmail: LeftInTheAtticPod@gmail.comVoicemail: (303) 416-2846

In this episode of Left in the Attic, Ana and Deep talk with civil rights attorney, Colorado Attorney General candidate David Seligman, Executive Director of Towards Justice, about collapsing trust in the rule of law and how corporate power and opaque AI systems now shape everyday life. They also discuss elite accountability gaps and the growing influence of “black box” AI in hiring, healthcare, housing, and wage-setting, including a lawsuit challenging an AI hiring tool. The episode closes with calls to action around banning surveillance-based wages and prices and joining community efforts to protect vulnerable communities.David plugged his campaign as a way to get involved: https://www.seligmanforag.com/volunteer-for-david Other organizations to follow for AI data centers include Sunrise Colorado (https://www.instagram.com/sunrisemvmtco), The Green House Connection Center (https://www.instagram.com/greenhousedenver), and PSL Denver (https://www.instagram.com/denverpsl/ )Confirmers are trained volunteers who respond to possible ICE activity and gather accurate info to keep our community safe and informed. Colorado Rapid Response Network hosts Confirmer trainings for registered members: https://coloradorapidresponsenetwork.com/event/ Colorado Sun article on the package of bills aiming to ban surveillance pricing and other corporate abuses: https://coloradosun.com/2026/01/26/colorado-cost-of-living-bills-democrats-2026/ 00:00 Welcome and Guest Tease00:22 Cold Shower Debate03:04 Shower Routines and Songs04:47 Meet David Seligman05:15 Origin Story and Rigged Rules06:29 Colorado Roots and Two Phones07:44 AG Race Primer09:58 Vision for the AG Office13:36 Rule of Law Crisis14:59 Forced Arbitration Horror Story18:14 AG Power to Enforce20:32 Dormant Laws and Lena Khan23:38 Liam and Paperwork Traps26:18 Epstein Corruption Exposed27:25 Paperwork Harms Kids28:46 Detention Trauma Fallout30:49 Profit From Poverty33:12 AI Discrimination Fears36:33 Secret Hiring Scores41:02 Black Box Dignity42:26 Capitol Lobbyist Reality44:45 Ban Surveillance Pricing46:50 Calls To Action49:30 Show Wrap And ThanksMeet Your HostsAna Mitchell, Ph.D., is a former CDC scientist who was swept up in federal cuts and is now reinventing herself as a civic coach and creator. After a decade reducing disparities in health and education, she’s building Civically Fit to make civic engagement accessible, authentic, and sustainable. A proud Latina and Colorado native, Ana is focused on helping people build community and power through everyday civic action. According to Deep, Ana has a dating life that could probably be its own podcast segment.Deep Singh Badhesha is an attorney, political strategist, and government affairs professional with over a decade of experience shaping political campaigns and policy in Colorado. A former public school math teacher, Colorado Supreme Court clerk, and senior policy analyst, he now works across campaigns, ballot initiatives, and legislative fights. He’s South Asian, a new dad, and a longtime organizer who believes community—not saviors—will rebuild the Left. He also has way too many hot takes on everything stemming from food and sports to politics.  Links:Website: www.LeftInTheAttic.comInstagram: @leftintheatticpodTikTok: @left.in.the.atticEmail: LeftInTheAtticPod@gmail.comVoicemail: (303) 416-2846

In this episode of Left in the Attic, hosts Ana and Deep talk with Colorado State Representative Brianna Titone (HD-27) about her path from tech and public service into politics, flipping a Republican district in 2018 as Colorado’s first openly transgender elected official, and her current run for state treasurer. Titone explains what the treasurer’s office does and her goals. They also dig into Colorado’s first-in-the-nation AI consumer protections bill against algorithmic discrimination, corporate influence, and concerns over data centers like the new one in Denver’s Elyria-Swansea. The episode closes with a call to action to show up, contact legislators, and follow groups like ACLU of Colorado and Towards Justice for AI updates and rallies.ACLU of Colorado Action Resources: https://www.aclu-co.org/actions/Towards Justice: https://towardsjustice.org/get-involved/ 00:00 Welcome + Meet Rep. Brianna Titone (and the Treasurer AI tease)00:21 Happy Hour Shoe Story02:40 Who Is Brianna Titone?03:51 From FBI Dream to Coming Out07:51 Flipping a Red District11:40 Why Run for State Treasurer? 15:26 Unclaimed Property Fund17:51 Modernizing Treasury Programs20:21 Top Priorities as Treasurer:23:18 Going Bold Against Federal Threats23:57 Tax Withholding as Protest24:54 Bold Leadership & Speaking Truth in Government26:13 Colorado’s AI Data Center Boom Hits North Denver30:14 Inside Colorado’s Landmark AI Discrimination Law (SB 205)36:12 Why AI Products Are Unsafe39:06 Data Center Politics: Tax Breaks, Environmental Costs & Right to Repair42:59 Money in Politics, Corporate Influence & Winning Back Trust45:27 Call to Action48:00 Wrap-Up Meet Your HostsAna Mitchell, Ph.D., is a former CDC scientist who was swept up in federal cuts and is now reinventing herself as a civic coach and creator. After a decade reducing disparities in health and education, she’s building Civically Fit to make civic engagement accessible, authentic, and sustainable. A proud Latina and Colorado native, Ana is focused on helping people build community and power through everyday civic action. According to Deep, Ana has a dating life that could probably be its own podcast segment.Deep Singh Badhesha is an attorney, political strategist, and government affairs professional with over a decade of experience shaping political campaigns and policy in Colorado. A former public school math teacher, Colorado Supreme Court clerk, and senior policy analyst, he now works across campaigns, ballot initiatives, and legislative fights. He’s South Asian, a new dad, and a longtime organizer who believes community—not saviors—will rebuild the Left. He also has way too many hot takes on everything stemming from food and sports to politics.  Links:Website: www.LeftInTheAttic.comInstagram: @leftintheatticpodTikTok: @left.in.the.atticEmail: LeftInTheAtticPod@gmail.comVoicemail: (303) 416-2846

James Reyes, chair of the Denver Democrats and DNC member with roots in tech and community organizing, explains how local party mechanics work. Short takes cover caucuses, precinct organizers, delegate paths, assembly thresholds, and how to get involved. Practical tips and energizing calls to action keep the conversation lively.

Michael Dougherty, three-time Boulder County DA and AG candidate with decades prosecutorial work, talks law and accountability. He covers Tina Peters and the rule of law. He discusses prosecuting a Democratic official for falsified residency. He examines ICE operations, a deadly Minnesota raid, and Colorado immigrant protections like SB276.

In this episode of Left in the Attic, hosts Ana and Deep reflect on the major wins and losses of 2025 and share their predictions for 2026. Deep opens up about the recent loss of his mom, illustrating the significant impact she had on his life and community. They discuss his mom’s inspiring journey from India to the United States and her relentless community organizing efforts. The episode picks up pace as they dive into the political, cultural, and scientific wins and losses of the year. They highlight significant events such as the impact of Zohran's election in New York, the troubling consequences of the Big Beautiful Bill, and the setbacks in science due to the rise of misinformation. The hosts also share personal achievements, including Deep becoming a father and Ana's career pivot after losing her job at the CDC. They wrap up with a call to action for civic engagement, encouraging listeners to join community organizations and stay politically active.00:00 Introduction and Personal Update00:32 Tribute to Deep's Mom02:11 Deep's Mom's Legacy and Community Impact03:50 Reflections and Moving Forward07:39 Biggest Wins and Losses of 202508:07 Personal Wins and Losses11:06 Predictions for 202615:00 Political Wins and Losses21:27 Political Predictions for 202625:41 Cultural Losses, Wins, and Predictions30:06 Science and Technology: Losses, Wins, and Predictions38:22 Mission and Call to ActionMeet Your HostsAna Mitchell, Ph.D., is a former CDC scientist who was swept up in federal cuts and is now reinventing herself as a civic coach and creator. After a decade reducing disparities in health and education, she’s building Civically Fit to make civic engagement accessible, authentic, and sustainable. A proud Latina and Colorado native, Ana is focused on helping people build community and power through everyday civic action. According to Deep, Ana has a dating life that could probably be its own podcast segment.Deep Singh Badhesha is an attorney, political strategist, and government affairs professional with over a decade of experience shaping political campaigns and policy in Colorado. A former public school math teacher, Colorado Supreme Court clerk, and senior policy analyst, he now works across campaigns, ballot initiatives, and legislative fights. He’s South Asian, a new dad, and a longtime organizer who believes community—not saviors—will rebuild the Left. He also has way too many hot takes on everything stemming from food and sports to politics.  Links:Website: www.LeftInTheAttic.comInstagram: @leftintheatticpodTikTok: @left.in.the.atticEmail: LeftInTheAtticPod@gmail.comVoicemail: (303) 416-2846

In this episode of Left in the Attic, hosts Ana and Deep discuss the critical issues of money in politics, corruption in D.C., and the affordability crisis. They are joined by special guest Melat Kiros, who is challenging long-time incumbent Diana DeGette for Colorado's Congressional District 1. Melat shares her motivation for running, focusing on the urgent need to eliminate corporate money from politics and restore integrity and effectiveness to government. The conversation delves into Citizen’s United, the importance of community involvement, and how small donations can make a significant impact in political campaigns. The episode wraps up with a strong call to action, encouraging listeners to support local candidates and engage in community-building efforts.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:26 Haircut Mishap and Weekend Volunteering01:09 Deep's Speech and Debate Experience01:57 Denver Urban Debate League02:45 Student Advocacy at the Capitol03:22 Introducing Melat Kiros03:49 Campaign Motivations and Challenges09:37 Money in Politics and Citizens United14:02 Corporate Influence and Wealth Disparity19:21 Trump's Middle East Golf Course and Political Corruption19:48 Voter Disillusionment and the Need for Impact21:08 Community Engagement Beyond Voting22:54 Capitalism's Relentless Pursuit of Profit24:52 The Power of Voting and Political Accountability31:09 Unionization and Worker Rights32:46 Corporate Greed and Social Safety Nets38:08 The Importance of Small Donations in Politics40:22 Conclusion and Call to ActionMeet Your HostsAna Mitchell, Ph.D., is a former CDC scientist who was swept up in federal cuts and is now reinventing herself as a civic coach and creator. After a decade reducing disparities in health and education, she’s building Civically Fit to make civic engagement accessible, authentic, and sustainable. A proud Latina and Colorado native, Ana is focused on helping people build community and power through everyday civic action. According to Deep, Ana has a dating life that could probably be its own podcast segment.Deep Singh Badhesha is an attorney, political strategist, and government affairs professional with over a decade of experience shaping political campaigns and policy in Colorado. A former public school math teacher, Colorado Supreme Court clerk, and senior policy analyst, he now works across campaigns, ballot initiatives, and legislative fights. He’s South Asian, a new dad, and a longtime organizer who believes community—not saviors—will rebuild the Left. He also has way too many hot takes on everything stemming from food and sports to politics.  Links:Website: www.LeftInTheAttic.comInstagram: @leftintheatticpodTikTok: @left.in.the.atticEmail: LeftInTheAtticPod@gmail.comVoicemail: (303) 416-2846

In this episode of Left in the Attic, hosts Deep and Ana discuss congressional campaigns, war crimes in Venezuela, the deployment of the National Guard in the US, and political inaction. They feature special guest CU Regent Wanda James, a notable advocate for social change, and the first Black woman to own a cannabis business in the US. Wanda, currently running for Congress in Colorado’s Congressional District 1, shares her background, her fight against systemic racism, and her tenure in various political landscapes. The conversation covers her efforts to rectify the impacts of the war on drugs on communities of color, the Colorado political scene, the challenges she has faced and overcome as a small business owner and naval officer, and her plans to address affordability, food insecurity, healthcare, and education. They also discuss Wanda's perspective as a former Naval officer on the recent events in Venezuela and the alarming trend of military deployment in US cities. The episode concludes with a call to action urging listeners to support community initiatives and holiday charity efforts.Ana and Wanda mentioned the Black Santa Project: https://www.theblacksantaproject.org/00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:17 Special Guest Introduction: Wanda James00:26 Funny Party Stories02:14 Wanda James: Background and Achievements07:09 Political Landscape and Campaign Challenges17:09 War Crimes in Venezuela21:47 US Intervention in Latin America22:09 Trump's Controversial Actions23:36 Military and Legal Perspectives25:32 Federal Employees and Ethical Dilemmas27:56 Media and Political Courage33:19 ICE and Immigration Issues36:05 Running for Office and Political Responsibility43:58 Call to Action and Community SupportMeet Your HostsAna Mitchell, Ph.D., is a former CDC scientist who was swept up in federal cuts and is now reinventing herself as a civic coach and creator. After a decade reducing disparities in health and education, she’s building Civically Fit to make civic engagement accessible, authentic, and sustainable. A proud Latina and Colorado native, Ana is focused on helping people build community and power through everyday civic action. According to Deep, Ana has a dating life that could probably be its own podcast segment.Deep Singh Badhesha is an attorney, political strategist, and government affairs professional with over a decade of experience shaping political campaigns and policy in Colorado. A former public school math teacher, Colorado Supreme Court clerk, and senior policy analyst, he now works across campaigns, ballot initiatives, and legislative fights. He’s South Asian, a new dad, and a longtime organizer who believes community—not saviors—will rebuild the Left. He also has way too many hot takes on everything stemming from food and sports to politics.  Links:Website: www.LeftInTheAttic.comInstagram: @leftintheatticpodTikTok: @left.in.the.atticEmail: LeftInTheAtticPod@gmail.comVoicemail: (303) 416-2846