Shows
Being ExtraThe Extra Guide to How the Democratic Party RunsThink voting or being a Democrat means you’re in the Democratic Party? Think again. In this episode of Being Extra, Jeni and Phillip break down how the party actually runs—starting at the precinct level in South Carolina and working all the way up to the national DNC.From precinct presidents and county conventions to DNC members, we’re taking you behind the blue curtain. Whether you’re a seasoned activist or just realized your vote didn’t come with a membership card, this is the Extra Guide you didn’t know you needed.This is your...2025-04-1455 minBeing ExtraRecession Depression?In this episode of Being Extra, Jeni and Phillip break down Trump’s April 2nd tariffs and what they really mean for your bank account, your grocery bill, and your future. From soaring prices on peaches and poultry to stock market free falls and potential job losses, we dig into how these so-called “patriotic” policies are hitting everyday Americans—especially right here in South Carolina.Are we heading toward a trade war-fueled recession? Is Congress finally pushing back? And who actually wins when tariffs take center stage? Tune in for the facts, the fury, and of course—the extra.2025-04-0842 minBeing ExtraDEI, Democracy, and the Fight That Never EndsIn this episode of Being Extra, Jeni and Phillip sit down with former SC State House candidate Matt Vilardebo to unpack South Carolina’s newly passed (in the House) anti-DEI bill—and why it should have everyone paying attention.We break down what the bill actually does, who it affects, and how it fits into a larger national movement to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in public institutions. Matt shares what it’s like running as a progressive in deep-red York County, the emotional toll of the political grind, and what keeps him coming back to the fi...2025-04-0547 minBeing ExtraRecovering Republican, Rebecca ReedBuckle up, because this episode is what Being Extra is all about: honest dialogue, political realness, and emotional depth with just the right amount of sass.In this episode, Jeni sits down with Rebecca Reed, the unapologetically honest voice behind The Recovering Republican. Rebecca opens up about her journey from the far-right evangelical movement to becoming a liberal Democrat—and the importance of empathy along the way.They talk about what it really means to listen without judgment, to meet people where they are, and to leave space for growth, even when it’s messy.2025-04-0159 minBeing ExtraSignal Gate and Spilled SecretsThis week, Jeni and Phillip dive into #Signalgate — the chaotic leak where journalist Jeffrey Goldberg was accidentally added to a private Signal group chat with top U.S. officials, including JD Vance, Marco Rubio, and Pete Hegseth.What was shared? Oh, just sensitive details about upcoming airstrikes in Yemen. Casual.We break down the national security disaster, the White House spin, and what it says about this administration’s total mess of a comms strategy.Tune in for spilled secrets, digital drama, and the kind of government group chat content you can’t make u...2025-03-2931 minBeing ExtraDo Political Polls Actually Work… Or Are They Just Vibes?In this episode of Being Extra, Jeni and Phillip take on the mystery, the madness, and the mess of political polling. After years of polls getting it wrong—2016, 2020, 2024—can we actually trust them? Or are they just astrology for political nerds?Jeni breaks down the numbers, why polls keep underestimating Trump voters, and how Democrats’ approval ratings are hitting historic lows (according to polls, anyway). Meanwhile, Phillip keeps it real—do people even answer pollsters anymore? Are these surveys capturing actual voter sentiment, or just the opinions of people who love talking on the phone?Tog...2025-03-2429 minBeing ExtraBudget Battles & Democratic DysfunctionIn this episode of Being Extra, Jeni and Phillip dive into the chaos surrounding the latest budget bill and the growing fractures within the Democratic Party. They break down what the bill actually did (spoiler: billionaires win, working people lose), why House Democrats fought against it while Senate Democrats caved, and what a government shutdown could have meant.The conversation gets heated as they explore the deep divisions between progressives, moderates, and centrists—are Democrats fighting for the right things, or just fighting each other? And most importantly, if Democrats can’t unite, are they handing Republicans anot...2025-03-1824 minBeing ExtraExtra, Extra! Trump’s Speech Was a Mess!Trump just gave his first speech to Congress in his second term, and whew… it was a lot. From fearmongering to false claims to straight-up authoritarian vibes, we’re breaking it down. In this episode of Being Extra, we talk about some of Trump’s wildest statements, highlight the Democratic response from Sen. Elissa Slotkin, and—most importantly—talk about how we turn the fight into real wins. With two key special elections in Florida on April 1st, now’s the time to step up. Let’s get into it!Learn more & take action: GayForCongress.com | JoshWeil.usFollo...2025-03-071h 03Being ExtraExtorter in ChiefWe had to sit down to talk about what happened on Friday at the White House. 2025-03-0521 minBeing ExtraPolitics Must Be PersonalJoin us on our first episode of the new season. This episode covers a bunch of topics because there has been so much going on. But the main message is that we need to make politics personal again. We have to build our communities and get involved. That is how we win!Follow along on your favorite podcast platform and follow up on social media:Facebook: /BeingExtraPodcastIG: @BeingExtraPodcastX: @BeingExtraPodEmail: BeingExtraPodcast@gmail.com2025-03-0356 min
Being ExtraWhen We Fight, Do We Really Win?Welcome back to Being Extra. This season, we are going to dive deep to answer the question: When we fight, do we really win? It was our slogan in 2024: "When we fight, we win!" However, we did not win. Now, what do we do? What does winning look like in 2025? Join me as I talk to community activists, organizers, candidates for office, elected officials, and more while being a little extra. 2025-03-0103 min
Being ExtraFitness FridayHappy Friday! It is the 15th of January and how many of us have already broken our New Year's Resolution? Well mine is be more healthy. I plan on talking about my Fitness journey in 2021. In this first installment of Fitness Friday, I talk about my journey in the realm of fitness, from childhood to today.
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IG: @BeingExtraPodcast2024-07-1733 min
Being ExtraBeing Extra: TrailerSometimes in life, we all NEED to be a little extra. Sometimes we can't help but ALWAYS be extra. This podcast explores everything: News, Politics, Comedy, Life Advice, Living in the South, Mental Health, Dating Advice, etc., all while being extra. With your host Jeni Atchley
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Follow me on FB, Twitter, IG, TikTok: Jeni Atchley2024-07-1702 min
Being ExtraRich Men North of Reality...On today’s episode, Jeni talks with returning guests Kyle and Sam. They talk about the GOP Vice President auditions (AKA the GOP Presidential Debate). They break down their thoughts on the debate and how the candidates performed. The three of them are from South Carolina, so they highlight the South Carolinians in the GOP Presidential Debate. What are your thoughts on the debate? Email the podcast today!
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Email: BeingExtraPodcast@gmail.com2024-07-171h 16Being ExtraKatie CrosbyOn this episode, Jeni sits down with Katie Crosby of Lancaster County. Katie is a former teacher and a real estate agent. Katie is the Chair of the Lancaster County Democratic Party and ran for SC State House District 44 in 2022. And guess what? She is doing it again in 2024. Katie and Jeni talk about what it was like to teach during the pandemic, how Moms for Liberty impacts schools and her view of working as a teacher as it relates to pay and working conditions. They talk about the political landscape in South Carolina and about why Katie is running...2023-10-061h 22Being ExtraBeing Randomly Extra...part 3Do you remember the 21st night of September? Because I do. We sit down for our first podcast together. We decided to be randomly extra, and we ended up talking for three hours. Believe it or not, this is how we talk all the time. We are just so random, and we love every minute of it. I decided to break up the conversation into three episodes since it was three hours long. I hope you enjoy it. PS: We are definitely going to do this again! Highlights of this episode—Abortion rights and access, Parents' rights and access—Women...2023-10-051h 03Being ExtraBeing Randomly Extra...part 2Do you remember the 21st night of September? Because I do. We sit down for our first podcast together. We decided to be randomly extra, and we ended up talking for three hours. Believe it or not, this is how we talk all the time. We are just so random, and we love every minute of it. I decided to break up the conversation into three episodes since it was three hours long. I hope you enjoy it. PS: We are definitely going to do this again! Highlights of this episode—Any background noise was from the TV broadcast of...2023-09-281h 00Being ExtraBeing Randomly Extra....part 1Do you remember the 21st night of September? Because I do. We sit down for our first podcast together. We decided to be randomly extra, and we ended up talking for three hours. Believe it or not, this is how we talk all the time. We are just so random, and we love every minute of it. I decided to break up the conversation into three episodes since it was three hours long. I hope you enjoy it. PS: We are definitely going to do this again! Highlights of this episode—Terrance’s first episode and navigating the system—Fun fac...2023-09-221h 01Being ExtraEmily MayerOn today’s episode, Jeni sits down with Emily Mayer. Emily is a wife, mother, advocate, and all-around superhero for many. Emily and Jeni worked together on campaigns in 2022, and now Emily focuses on advocacy work at the SC State House. Follow along on your favorite podcast platform and follow up on social media:Facebook: /BeingExtraPodcastIG: @BeingExtraPodcastTwitter: @BeingExtraPodEmail: BeingExtraPodcast@gmail.com2023-08-0957 minBeing ExtraMy April Fools Weekend and Melina RodeloOn today’s episode, Jeni reminds you to always buy the extended warranty. Jeni then sits down with Melina Rodelo. Melina is a wife, mother, and friend. She is a financial accountant and small business owner. She is also a 1st General America, born in America, and raised in Mexico until she was 6 years old. She is now running for 2nd Vice-Chair of the South Carolina Democratic Party. The election is on April 29th at the SCDP State Convention. Full disclosure, Jeni serves as Melina's Campaign Manager for this election. Learn more about Mealina and her campaign at https://www.sc4w...2023-04-081h 35Being ExtraBeing Extra with Brandon UpsonOn today’s episode, Jeni sits down with Brandon Upson. Brandon Upson is currently the chair of the South Carolina Democratic (SCDP) Party Black Caucus. He is a US Army Combat Veteran and member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc He is a husband, father, and notable political strategist. He is now running for Chair of SCDP. The election is on April 29th at the SCDP State Convention. Full disclosure, Jeni serves as Brandon’s Campaign Manager for this election. Learn more about Brandon and his campaign at https://www.sc4wardtogether.com/ Learn more about the SCDP Convention at http...2023-03-301h 38Being ExtraHistory of VotingJeni checks in with everyone to share updates about her Ph.D. journey so far. She is then joined by Sam and Kyle to talk about the history of voting in South Carolina and nationally. The group continues the conversation about the 2022 elections and gets into some fun "extra" stories.
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/beingextra/support2023-03-271h 10Being ExtraThe Ph.D. Journey So FarIn this episode, Jeni talks about her journey in her Ph.D. program so far. It has been an interesting journey so far and there is still a lot to learn. Jeni will continue to give updates about the Ph.D. program and her progress in the dissertation journey. Follow along on your favorite podcast platform and follow up on social media:Facebook: /BeingExtraPodcastIG: @BeingExtraPodcastTwitter: @BeingExtraPodEmail: BeingExtraPodcast@gmail.com2023-03-2722 minBeing ExtraMeet Sam & KyleJoin Jeni as she sits down with Sam Grant and Kyle Brantley. Sam and Kyle introduce themselves to everyone and share some fun stories. The three of them jump into things going on in the political world and talk about the 2022 election in South Carolina.
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/beingextra/support2023-03-201h 14Being ExtraStarting new...again...So I am bringing the podcast back...again. I know I took 2022 off but it is time to get back into it. I will have full episodes up in 2023 and will talk about the new journey in my life, all while being a little extra. Follow along on your favorite podcast platform and follow up on social media:Facebook: /BeingExtraPodcastIG: @BeingExtraPodcastTwitter: @BeingExtraPodEmail: BeingExtraPodcast@gmail.com2022-12-2908 min
Being ExtraBeing Extra with Sam Grant!Working that political life is really fun. We have so many fun stories, so many things that we don’t ever want to talk about, and so many things we can never talk about. But we like to have fun and be extra as well. Meet Sam Grant, 1st Vice President of Young Dems of SC, Freshman at CSU, Intern at JGS Strategies, and so much more. Jeni and Sam decided to record during a road trip one day because why not. ALSO, run for office. Filing opens in South Carolina on March 16th and closes on March 30th. The...2022-02-0337 minBeing ExtraIt's 2022, now what do we do?Welcome 2022! Being Extra is ready to start again. New Year, New Logo, New Podcast! Now let's get ready to get extra with Jeni and all her guests this year. Follow on social media https://linktr.ee/BeingExtraPodcastFacebook: /BeingExtraPodcast Twitter: @BeingExtraPod Email: BeingExtraPodcast@gmail.com IG: @BeingExtraPodcast--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/beingextra/support2022-01-1902 minBeing ExtraBeing Extra about Bipolar Disorder.Welcome to the first episode of 2022. Jeni shares updates on how 2022 has been going so far and the fun extra things that have happen already. Recently there was a winter storm in South Carolina. All over social media, all Jeni saw was how "bipolar" the weather has been in South Carolina. Why does society have the wrong idea about bipolar? Bipolar has such a negative connotation and people fear it and mental health. Bipolar person are portrayed a certain way in TV and movies. Bipolar people and people with mental health are the main point of conversation around it comes...2022-01-1943 min
Being ExtraLet's close out 2021!!!Hey bestie!!! Guess what, 2021 is finally ending. So that means we get to welcome in 2022 with open arms, right? Right? Well take a look back at the year 2021, have you changed? Have you developed a new version of yourself? Jeni saw a saying the other day, you will have to listen to the episode to learn more about the saying. Jeni talks about how the last year has changed her, heck how she is a different person from 5 years ago. Every incident and situation you have been through in your life causes you to change. Every time you go through a...2021-12-2933 min
Being ExtraSay it, if you are ready!Today Jeni talks about the importance of talking about things if you are ready. It is important to say stuff if it needs to be said. But, it is also important to ensure you are prepared for that. You have to set boundaries, you might need to talk with a therapist, or you might need time. Jeni lost her father almost a year ago and never got a chance to talk to him about things from the past and now she hold onto those things in her life. Say it, if you are ready, however, at the same time, you...2021-11-2229 min
Being ExtraDo What You LoveBeing Extra is back (again). This time Jeni is talking about her transition from her 9 to 5 job to being her own #bossbabe. Jeni talks about her new business and how it is important to plan when it comes to changing careers. But also about the importance of knowing your worth at your current job. Follow on social media https://linktr.ee/BeingExtraPodcastFacebook: /BeingExtraPodcast Twitter: @BeingExtraPod Email: BeingExtraPodcast@gmail.com IG: @BeingExtraPodcast2021-11-1535 min
Being ExtraResting B**** FaceHave you ever been told that that you just need to smile more? Have you ever been told that you have RBF? Join Jeni on her rant about being told to just smile or being told that you have to say everything is great. It gets very tiring to just pretend that everything is okay. We are constantly taught in life to pretend that everything is great and everything is fine. That is very frustrating. Hope you enjoy Jeni's little rant (LOL)Follow on social media https://linktr.ee/BeingExtraPodcast2021-08-0319 min
Being ExtraGetting Starting in the Democratic Party in SCJoin Jeni with special guest Kevin Eckert as he talks about getting starting in the Democratic Party in South Carolina. Kevin talks about how he moved to South Carolina and his journey to start in politics. Jeni and Kevin serve as officers in the Young Democrats of South Carolina. As we all know, South Carolina is a very red state so getting starting in politics is sometimes difficult. Get involved in politics! Whether it is in the R party or the D Party or if you are still trying to figure it out. Here are some resources t...2021-07-3057 min
Being Extra#MentalHealthMatters Movement~~Trigger Warning~~ In this episode domestic violence, childhood trauma, trauma, sexual violence and SI is discussed. Please ensure if you are triggered by anything discussed, you reach out for support from your support system whether it be your doctor, therapist, family or friends. Lets say it together everyone #MentalHealthMatters !!! Join Jeni and her guest Cat for an episode all about mental health and how it truly does matter. Jeni and Cat discuss their personal experiences the mental health system and barriers they have been through. They also encourage everyone to seek out therapy because it is good for you. Mental H...2021-07-2659 min
Being ExtraAvoidance is my Unhealthy Coping SkillAvoidance is my unhealthy coping skill what is yours? On this Mindfulness Monday, join Jeni as she talks about a mental health struggle she went through this weekend. Talking about things is important especially when it comes to mental health. Jeni shares about how her unhealthy coping skill is avoidance and how it is important to talk about things even when you want to avoid them. Have you checked in on your friends and family lately? Have you asked more than just "how are you doing"? Jeni challenges everyone to check in on their friends and family and really check...2021-01-2532 min
Being ExtraIt rhymes with Lonely TansIt rhymes with Lonely Tans! Join Jeni as she dives deep into the life of her neighbor Danielle. Danielle is a mother of three and two of her children have special needs to include Autism and Traumatic Brain Injury. Danielle also opens up about her career on Tik Tok and a platform that rhymes with "Lonely Tans". Explore with Jeni and Danielle as they discuss politics, motherhood, the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Trump Administration and so much more all while being extra. Follow on social media https://linktr.ee/BeingExtraPodcastFacebook: /BeingExtraPodcast Twitter: @Bei...2021-01-191h 08
Being ExtraLet's Talk InchesJoin Jeni on this Fitness Friday as she talks about losing inches. Weight loss is not always about how many pounds you lose. We cannot get bogged down by counting calories and weighing ourselves. Jeni talks about how she is doing measurements to ensure to look at real loss. Weight loss and getting healthy is a marathon, not a sprint after all. Is your New Year's Resolution to lose weight? How are you doing with that? Let us know by commenting on social media pages, let's hold each other accountable. Follow on social media https://linktr.ee/BeingExtraPodcastFacebook: /BeingExtraPodcast Twitter: @Bei...2021-01-1229 min
Being ExtraWelcome to 2021!A lot has happened since the last episode on 12/2/2020. In the first episode of 2021 I talk about losing my dad and some trauma. Trigger warning: I talk about things that are trauma related in this episode.2021-01-0431 min
Being ExtraI'm a loser baby!Yes, it sucks to lose. We all lose sometimes but Jeni has a way to be so extra with it. Has losing ever held you back? Has the fear of losing ever made it so that you don't even try something? Join Jeni Atchley as she talks about losing, because it happens to all of us. Follow on social media https://linktr.ee/BeingExtraPodcast Facebook: /BeingExtraPodcast Twitter: @BeingExtraPod Email: BeingExtraPodcast@gmail.com IG: @BeingExtraPodcast2020-12-0726 min
Being ExtraImposter Syndrome!Join Jeni as she dives into Imposter Syndrome! The holidays are coming up and a lot of people are traveling to be with family and/or friends. A lot of times we, especially women, do not feel like we are good enough and we feel like a failure or a fraud. Imposter Syndrome is real, feelings are real and the struggle is real. Sometimes in life people think we are being too extra but we are actually in fear of failure. Follow on social media Facebook: /BeingExtraPodcast Twitter: @BeingExtraPod Email: BeingExtraPodcast@gmail.com IG: @BeingExtraPodcast2020-11-2333 min
Being ExtraHanging out with Jeremy JonesJoin Jeni on this episode as she talks with Jeremy Jones. Jeremy previously served as 1st Vice President of the Young Democrats of South Carolina and currently serves as the Executive Committeeman for the Lexington County Democratic Party. Jeremy is a substitute teacher from Columbia, SC. Jeremy and Jeni talk about local news in South Carolina, dating in the time of COVID-19, favorite TV series (Queer Eye) and so much more. Follow on social media Facebook: /BeingExtraPodcast Twitter: @BeingExtraPod Email: BeingExtraPodcast@gmail.com IG: @BeingExtraPodcast--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm...2020-11-2035 min
Being ExtraIt's time to start being extra!On this first episode of Being Extra listen to Jeni Atchley introduce herself and go over the purpose of this podcast. Hear from Jeni as she shares a bit about what she does in her work life, volunteer life and personal life. Learn about how to reach out to the show and how you can also sign up to be a guest. This is just episode 1 so that means it is time to start being extra.
Follow on social media Facebook: /BeingExtraPodcast Twitter: @BeingExtraPod Email: BeingExtraPodcast@gmail.com IG: @BeingExtraPodcast2020-11-1922 min