Advocating for Change in West Virginia: A Conversation with Kat Weiland
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Host Amy McDonald welcomes Kat Weiland, a candidate running for the West Virginia House of Delegates, District 17, on The Foolish Optimist Podcast. Weiland, a teacher, mother, and native Appalachian, discusses her political stances, including being pro-union, pro-public education, and anti-school voucher programs. The conversation touches on a variety of issues including public education, state insurance, and the struggles of rural infrastructure in West Virginia. Weiland shares her personal motivations, rooted in her father's life experiences and her own journey back to her hometown. The episode delves into her campaign goals, the need for bipartisan solutions on issues like road maintenance and childcare, and the economic struggles faced by many in the state. Weiland also discusses the importance of vocational training and the unique cultural aspects of West Virginia.
00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement
01:58 Why Kat is Running for Office
02:29 West Virginia's Political Landscape
03:27 Challenges in Education and Insurance
09:13 Roads and Infrastructure Issues
13:55 Public Education and Voucher Programs
17:47 Personal Stories and Motivations
19:29 Minimum Wage and Economic Challenges
22:29 The Impact of Travel on Brain Chemistry
22:54 Scholarship Fund and Application Fees
24:22 Teaching Journey from West Virginia to Texas
26:25 Vocational Training and Popular Trades
31:03 The Beauty and Culture of West Virginia
32:24 Rapid Fire Questions
