Shows
Just a Couple KidsThe Comeback is Always Greater than the SetbackYour boys are back kicking some knowledge about the 2024 Primary Races in Allegheny County, as well as life updates & our normal ridiculousness.2024-04-181h 38
Just a Couple KidsJill Beck, Democratic Nominee for PA Superior CourtThe Kids have expanded their horizons and are going statewide on this episode. Representing Allegheny County, we have the well-versed and experienced Jill Beck to chat about her background, as well as what goes on in Harrisburg with the Superior Court and how it affects all Pennsylvanians.2023-10-271h 19
Just a Couple KidsMatt Dugan, Democratic Nominee for District AttorneyProbably the most prolific guest of the pod, the man who has polarized the District Attorney race, Matt Dugan talks shop with the Kids. We chat about his upbringing and the very influential time he spent in Allegheny County rising the ranks of the Public Defender's Office. Dugan describes the very bright future for both Allegheny County and the chief law enforcement of office of the County. 2023-10-191h 36
Just a Couple KidsErica Rocchi Brusselars, Democratic Nominee for County TreasurerThe Kids come at you with a brand new guest, our Democratic Nominee for Treasurer, Erica Rocchi Brusselars. From her upbringing in California to her collegiate time in Oakland, then off to Mississippi for teaching, and then back to Pittsburgh to settle in the Northside, the Kids get the full bio of Erica. As well as her dedication to the Democratic Party over her adult life. And of course, she clarifies that an actuary has nothing to do with birds or surveying. 2023-10-121h 58
Just a Couple KidsPatrick Sweeney, Democratic Nominee for Court of Common PleasWe need a few big wins this fall, so we're back to give you all the deets about the Democratic Candidates for the 2023 General Election. First stop is with a friendly face, who's making his return to the podcast, Mr. Patrick Sweeney. We chat about his campaigning history, as well as his secret weapon this time around, Campaign Manager, Alex Rose.2023-10-041h 58Just a Couple KidsThe WAYYY Post-Primary RecapRyan pulled his weight for once and reeled in two great guests to discuss the aftermath of the May Primary. The Kids are joined by the Northside Cowboy, himself, Chris Rosselot and All-Things-Politics, political strategist Miss Erin Wise. In addition to recapping the election, the conversation also discusses what we have to look forward to this fall in the General Election.2023-06-301h 39Just a Couple KidsPrimary Election Day '23Surprise, we made it just in time with your Primary Election Preview Episode. We discuss 'em all, front to back and side to side. Whoever you vote for, just make sure you show up and vote!2023-05-162h 04Just a Couple KidsPrimary Updates & News with Mr. Darren JohnsonOn The Kids' latest podcast, Darren Johnson, their professional associate joins to discuss county-wide politics, as well as gun reform and twice impeached and once indicted former president, Donald J. Trump. What makes this discussion unique is that Darren brings a fresh perspective to the table, having grown up in a different part of the country. Believe it or not, the conversation is actually rather insightful and thought-provoking. 2023-04-192h 06
Just a Couple KidsPost-ACDC EndorsementsThe Kids break down all of the countywide endorsement results, as well as the variables for every candidate to cross the finish line first in May.Disclaimer: I know, we're late and news has happened since. However, Tony's busy during campaign SZN & Ryan can't even turn on a computer. Sorry, we'll do better next time!2023-03-221h 47
Just a Couple KidsCounty Endorsement PredictionsWith the Allegheny County Democratic Endorsement Candidate List locked in, the Kids discuss the field and who they believe will capture the endorsement next month. 2023-02-131h 31Just a Couple Kids'22 General Election Recap feat. Chris Rosselot, the Northside CowboyThe Kids are joined by their good friend from across the river to discuss all of the general election happenings.2022-11-281h 49
Just a Couple Kids2022 General Election SpecialBecause we're not Beyonce or Taylor Swift, the dramatic, cloaked in darkness, early morning drop won't get as much attention as we'd like. It's all good, we hope we made your day (for the 17 of you who do listen). Now, go vote!2022-11-081h 34
Just a Couple KidsBen BrightFormer Washington County Democratic Chairman and Candidate for County Controller, Ben Bright brings an insight to the pod that we haven't seen. His experience and travel up and down the western side of Pennsylvania shows a perspective of what is going in rural PA and what we can do to expand the Dem presence outside of metropolitan areas.2022-03-281h 44
Just a Couple KidsMayor Rob FalceThe Kids go into no man's land and reeled in one of Ryan's neighbors from Munhall, Mayor Rob Falce. Great conversation about local government and Falce's career in both Allegheny County and in his own neighborhood.2022-03-071h 34
Just a Couple KidsCouncilwoman Mandy SteeleThis week the Kids have a candidate spotlight with Democratic Candidate for District 33 State Representative, Mandy Steele. She brings a very diverse background to the forum where the kids talk about stormwater management, farming, and climate change issues.2022-02-281h 37
Just a Couple KidsMayor Ryan O'DonnellSmall town mayor with big-time plans and accomplishments! The Kids have Mayor O'Donnell on the show this week to discuss political rivals, Android phones, daily life, and much more!2022-02-211h 25
Just a Couple KidsPatrick SweeneyA lifelong community advocate and incredible public defender, Patrick Sweeney is the epitome of what we look for in leadership. Pat discusses his roots crisscrossing the Commonwealth, but finally returning to the Burgh. We also delve into his relationship with the Irish community and his future in Allegheny County.2022-02-141h 19Just a Couple KidsJust the Kids... Thanks RyanThe Kids have a full lineup of news for you from local to state and even some Federal talk. We discuss the pay raises on city council, along with the upcoming state house races and redistricting. Additionally, the Kids chat about taxes, Supreme Court and more.2022-01-311h 05Just a Couple KidsThe Kids are BackInvigorated after some time off from the pod (and one another) the Kids have laid out the landscape for the 2022 election cycle from local to state and back. Plus, some insight on how szn 2 is panning out!2022-01-181h 05Just a Couple KidsSZN 1 Wrap UpThe Kids take a trip down memory lane on the last episode of Season 1. A lot of chatting between Tony & Ryan regarding guests, moments, and the strenuous relationship of making a podcast.2021-12-131h 12
Just a Couple KidsDeep Breakdown of the General ElectionThe Kids brought the Senior Advisor, Sean Harrington back to the show to break everything down statewide and local. Giving us some much-needed answers as to how everything panned out a few weeks ago.2021-11-221h 15Just a Couple KidsPost-Election SummarySo the Kids took an unplanned, extended vaca after the election, but we're back to fill you in on everything that happened from a local, regional, and statewide perspective. Also, they discuss the future of the region after the results of November 2nd.2021-11-1553 min
Just a Couple KidsMagistrate Madness feat. Hilary Wheatley Taylor, Leah Williams-Duncan & Nick MartiniThe Kids wanted to make sure to keep it local and that's what they did with three candidates for the first rung of the judicial system in Allegheny County, district magistrate. Although there are many MDJ races going on throughout the region, the Kids chose three highly contested races.Hilary Wheatley Taylor, an attorney, is repping the south with Dormont and Tony's hometown, Mt. Lebanon. Leah Williams-Duncan, a domestic relations officer, hails from the Northside of Pittsburgh, Wards 26 & 27. Nick Martini, a township administrator, a lifelong West End kid is fighting for the 20th & 28th Wards of the St...2021-10-271h 31
Just a Couple KidsJudge Bruce BeemerQuiet and unassuming, but dedicated to justice and excellent at every stop in his career- there is a reason why refer to Judge Bruce Beemer the Tim Duncan of the judicial slate. Not to mention, a low post game and 20 ft bank shot can't be stopped. Find out how his approach to leadership helped him navigate a tumultuous time in the Commonwealth and a challenging docket on the bench. DISCLAIMER: This episode was to be published on 10/20/21, so there are some timely errors in the synchronization of episodes.2021-10-2656 min
Just a Couple KidsJudge Lori DumasA perennial student of her craft, Judge Lori Dumas looks to bring her incredible resume from the Court of Common Pleas in Philadelphia to the Commonwealth Court. Additionally, she explained how the Commonwealth Court works, what it does, and how it affects the normal everyday person. As a woman of the people, Judge Dumas brings a different perspective to this infamous judicial tier.2021-10-251h 01
Just a Couple KidsJessel CostaA product of Fifth Avenue, Jessel Costa has been doing legal work since his career started fresh out of Duquesne Law School. With a diverse background, both as a public defender and attorney general, Costa shows that age is nothing but a number because he's as ready as anyone to take the bench this fall.2021-10-221h 02
Just a Couple KidsLisa MiddlemanFrom taking the District Attorney's race of 2019 by storm, Lisa Middleman has been in the spotlight in the Pittsburgh political scene. However, she didn't just appear out of nowhere. Tireless and selfless years at the Public Defender's Office readied her for the current run at the bench.2021-10-211h 16
Just a Couple KidsController Chelsa WagnerThe Kids were so excited to have the Queen of Allegheny County, also referred to as Controller Chelsa Wagner back on the show. This time the focus is on the bench, as in why Chelsa opted to run for this position, how it felt to be the top Dem vote-getter, and how she envisions the judicial system looking with herself and slate on it.2021-10-191h 34
Just a Couple KidsJudge David SpurgeonAllegheny County's own, Judge David Spurgeon is everything you'd expect from a blue-collar guy from the Mon-Valley. The Kids chat about his early years, rise to the bench, and statewide campaign. Not to mention, he's one cool dude.2021-10-181h 18
Just a Couple KidsTiffany SizemoreFrom the candidate that no one knew to one of the all-stars of the slate of 10, Tiffany Sizemore's experience, both lived and professional makes her one of the most interesting candidates on this ticket. In addition to her experience in the DC and the Allegheny County Public Defender's Offices, she created the Youth Advocacy Clinic at Duquesne University School of Law. This unique background contributes to her holistic approach to justice where all aspects of the problem are addressed. 2021-10-151h 14
Just a Couple KidsJudge Tom CaulfieldAs one of the most experienced judicial candidates on the slate, Judge Tom Caulfield explains how his time at the Public Defender's Office, a State Representative's office, and his magisterial tenure bring different ideas to the bench downtown. The Kids chat about Caulfield's shortcoming in the primary, reemergence into the general and of course, baseball... lots of baseball.2021-10-141h 31
Just a Couple KidsNicola Henry-TaylorYou knew Tony would be excited for this one and she did not disappoint. Nicola Henry-Taylor is everything anyone would want in a judge. The Kids discuss the primary, the county committee, how campaigning is going with the slate, and much more. For Tony's sake, give this a listen and make sure you show up for her in November.2021-10-131h 15
Just a Couple KidsWrenna WatsonWith years of experience in the courtroom and a vast amount of knowledge about the judicial system, Wrenna Watson has everything you would want in a judge. The Kids discuss her upbringing, being the daughter of a judge, of course, her law school alma mater (thanks to Ryan), and experiences in the courts that fueled her to continue to fight for her community as an attorney and as a judge.2021-10-121h 18
Just a Couple KidsJudge Timika LaneFrom cheeseburgers on the bench to selling her car for campaign funds to tossing a child on her hip during court, the lived experiences this woman has is everything you'd want in a judicial candidate. West Philly's own, Judge Timika Lane discusses her background and why she's the right candidate for Superior Court.2021-10-111h 14
Just a Couple KidsSabrina KorbelKeeping things moving on the Judge-A-Rama train a trailblazer protecting women's rights over the course of her career. The Kids discuss Sabrina Korbel's background, the grind of the campaign, her vision of the bench, and plenty of off-the-topic chatter.2021-10-0855 min
Just a Couple KidsJudge Elliot HowsieNo better way to start off the Judge-A-Rama series than with sitting judge, the Honorable Elliot Howsie. The Kids discuss the campaign process, the slate of ten, Howsie's accomplishments in and out of the courtroom, as well as his expectations for the future.2021-10-0649 min
Just a Couple KidsJudge Maria McLaughlinThe cheerleader of the Democratic ticket is spunkier than a porcupine drinking a Red Bull. The Kids discuss the Judge's resume and her campaign trail, which has lead her across the Commonwealth. 2021-10-041h 02
Just a Couple KidsCouncilman Corey O'ConnorThe Kids are back and excited to get into the mix with a young, accomplished public servant, City of Pgh Councilman, Corey O'Connor. The Kids preface their convo with the campaign SZN lineup for the next couple of months. Then they chop it up with the Councilman discussing his transition into politics, golf coaching, Fireball, constituent services, neighborhoods, and more on this episode.2021-09-271h 26Just a Couple KidsCampaign SZNThe Kids made it back from Jamaica unscathed and are ready for campaign season to get going. They discuss their travel stories, St fake-Paddy's Day, and the GOP nominees for judge. 2021-09-2055 minJust a Couple KidsJamaicaMom & Dad had a travel issue that pushed back this week's episode, but we made it. Hear all about the travel, the resort, and of course, Pittsburgh politics!2021-09-1456 minJust a Couple KidsBack to BusinessWith the extended absence of the Senior Advisor, it was time for Ryan to pull his weight and figure out where the future of the pod was headed. Thankfully, he pulled a rabbit out of his hat and Tony didn't fire him. Take a listen to hear about new members of the Kids and an in-depth breakdown of the paths for the city, county, and state candidates this fall.2021-09-061h 20Just a Couple KidsNews & BrunchThe Kids hop on this week solo to discuss local and national news, due to a mishap in scheduling. But we'll be back with guests next week and for the forseeable future.2021-08-3054 minJust a Couple KidsDemstockThe Kids travel northeast to beautiful Elk County for the Demstock event.2021-08-2358 min
Just a Couple KidsState Representative Nick PisciottanoThe Kids got themselves an incredible, young State Rep in Nick Pisciottano from the southwestern neighborhoods of Allegheny County to chat about his first term in office and generalities about local and statewide politics.2021-08-161h 57
Just a Couple KidsMayor Emily MarburgerA dynamic young mayor, Emily Marburger chats with the Kids about her background, her climb to mayorship, and the future of the party. 2021-08-091h 30Just a Couple KidsNews & Booze Pt DeuxRyan said 'whatever, let's just have our friends on'. So the Kids are joined by political operatives, Nichole Remmert & Chris Rosselot to discuss the current affairs of Western PA politics.2021-08-021h 51
Just a Couple KidsJoe KleppickEast McKeesport Chair, Joe Kleppick brings a diverse background including advocacy, politics, and public service to the show. Have a listen to Kids and Joe discuss his background and autism awareness.2021-07-261h 31
Just a Couple KidsMayor Matt RudzkiThe Kids continue to branch out and on this episode, they take a trip up Route 28 to chat with Sharpsburg Mayor and Magisterial District Judge Democratic Nominee, Matt Rudzki.2021-07-191h 26
Just a Couple KidsSchool Director, Braxton WhiteThe Kids & the Special Advisor brought in rural Dem leader and School Director, Braxton White all the way from Clarion County to give a different perspective on the typical discussion of city politics.2021-07-121h 18
Just a Couple KidsPgh City Council Chiefs of Staff, Curt Conrad & Blake PlavchakRyan & Tony go at it in every episode, but this time, they're taking the wrestling match to a tag team. Their respective CoS's Curt & Blake go head to head in a city episode of JACKS.2021-07-051h 42
Just a Couple KidsPatrick Joyal & Nichole RemmertWe initially were going to explain aspects of the county makeup and things just went every which way, but it was a ride you definitely want to take with the Kids, the senior advisor, and the lowercase q.2021-06-281h 32
Just a Couple KidsNews & BoozeThe Kids got their boy back, P$ to discuss some local and statewide news. Ryan brought in former colleague, Aliza Legg for some perspective for the Kids, errr... nerds. This episode is all over the place... an hour and a half you won't get back, but damn, it's entertaining!2021-06-211h 30
Just a Couple KidsPGH School Director, Bill GallagherThe Kids reeled in a big one here in Pittsburgh Public School's Director, Bill Gallagher. The discussion is all over the place, but we do delve into some sports talk, chat about Bill's life experience as a coach and teacher, as well as the current state of the school board.2021-06-141h 28
Just a Couple KidsChris RosselotA veteran in the operative world and former candidate himself, Chris brings a diverse background and perspective to the Kids about local politics.2021-06-071h 40
Just a Couple KidsScott AbrahamA new dynamic to the podcast, the Kids brought in Scott Abraham, AKA the voice of JACKS to discuss his career working in the media. We chat about Scott's resume, life in DC and the political presence amongst all aspects of the news.2021-05-3157 min
Just a Couple KidsPrimary Wrap Up feat. Patrick JoyalWe have P$ back to breakdown everything that happened on Election Day. As well as, our thoughts on where things go from here.2021-05-241h 04
Just a Couple KidsBPM x JACKS Collab - Primary Election PredictionsWe have Ash & Martell in the house for some great dialogue, along with the Kids and Patrick. What an episode! We discuss everything from local magistrates up to the Supreme Court. Make sure you take a listen before voting!2021-05-172h 04
Just a Couple KidsTiffany SizemoreThe Kids last installment of Judge-A-Rama with a candidate who has been picking up steam at the right time. Tiffany Sizemore has a lot to bring the table and her discussion is unlike anyone we've had on before.2021-05-161h 02
Just a Couple KidsJessel CostaAlthough young, Jessel Costa has been through a lot in his career already. The Kids discuss Jessel's time at the Public Defender's and Attorney General's Offices, as well as the grind of running for judge this spring.2021-05-1558 min
Just a Couple KidsZeke RedikerAlthough he's one of the youngest candidates in the race, Zeke Rediker has experience that matches someone with a long and storied career in the legal culture. Take a listen as to why that experience could make a big impact in the Court of Common Pleas.2021-05-141h 13
Just a Couple KidsNicola Henry-TaylorShe's been all over, but Allegheny County is happy to have her. Henry-Taylor discusses her time assisting folks all over Western PA and what her experience could bring to the bench.2021-05-1347 min
Just a Couple KidsJudge Bruce BeemerThe man has travelled the state and had many different positions, but he ended up back in Allegheny County. He's proven himself time and time again, there's a reason why Judge Bruce Beemer has been unanimously confirmed with bipartisan support on multiple occasions.2021-05-1251 min
Just a Couple KidsJudge Elliot HowsieHe's made a career of helping folks and that's exactly what the Kids chat with him about. From his early days at the District Attorney's Office through the restructuring of the Public Defender's Office onto his time on the bench. Judge Howsie has a resume not comparable to anyone.2021-05-111h 07
Just a Couple KidsGiuseppe RosselliHis name came to prominence last summer as he defended many during the protests, but Giuseppe has a background that tells a story on why he's running for judge and what he can do to ensure justice and compassion on the bench. 2021-05-1040 min
Just a Couple KidsSabrina KorbelWhen it comes to compassion and work ethic, it's hard to find someone better than Sabrina Korbel. The Kids chat with Sabrina about assisting victims of domestic violence all the way through to her plans if elected this spring.2021-05-0947 min
Just a Couple KidsBrian MalkinOne of, if not the, most interesting candidates, Brian Malkin brings a very diverse background to this race. From figure skating to the courtroom, the Kids touch on all of Malkin's background.2021-05-0831 min
Just a Couple KidsJimmy SheetsHe's a courthouse legend, but do you know the real Jimmy Sheets? Take a listen to this episode as we peel back the layers to a man who's been through it all.2021-05-0749 min
Just a Couple KidsAlbert VeverkaFellow Blue Devil alum along with Tony, Albert has a vision of the courtroom unlike most others. Listen to find out how Albert plans on reforming the judicial system.2021-05-0641 min
Just a Couple KidsChief Deputy Kevin KrausThe Chief Deputy kicks it with the Kids, discussing his early years in law enforcement, his relationship with Sheriff Mullen, the ins and outs of the Sheriff's Office and his plans if he's elected Sheriff.2021-05-031h 12
Just a Couple KidsTony MorenoThe man, the myth, the legend and mayoral candidate, Tony Moreno made the trip across the river to kick it with the Kids. We discuss his upbringing, how he made an impact as a police officer, and his vision for a better City of Pittsburgh.2021-04-262h 11
Just a Couple KidsState Representative Ed GaineyThe Kids got their boy, Marty Mar, Martell Covington back for this big time episode. They whole gang has been backing this man, Mayoral Candidate and State Representative Ed Gainey, since Episode 1. They hit all the topics from growing up in Pittsburgh to venturing off to the DMV for school and back to the 412 to begin a career in public service. Additionally, Ed explains his plan for making a more inclusive City of Pittsburgh.2021-04-201h 15
Just a Couple KidsState Representative Ed GaineyThe Kids got their boy, Marty Mar, Martell Covington back for this big time episode. They whole gang has been backing this man, Mayoral Candidate and State Representative Ed Gainey, since Episode 1. They hit all the topics from growing up in Pittsburgh to venturing off to the DMV for school and back to the 412 to begin a career in public service. Additionally, Ed explains his plan for making a more inclusive City of Pittsburgh.2021-04-191h 15
Just a Couple KidsController Chelsa WagnerFinally, Queen Chelsa Wagner (pronounced Chel-suh, get it right) has come through to kick it with the kids. We talk about her education, hooping with Barack Obama, transitioning offices and what her future holds. Not to mention, special guest political operative Ms Nichole Remmert.2021-04-121h 55
Just a Couple KidsValues feat. Martell Covington & Patrick JoyalThe four horsemen finally connected like Voltron and the whole squad is together on the pod. The Kids talk about the 2020 enthusiasm vs the 2021 outlook, based on enthusiasm and value system. 2021-04-051h 48
Just a Couple KidsCouncilwoman Bethany HallamShe came through and kicked down the door while doing so. Check out the Kids and Miss Hallam talk about everything you were and weren't expecting on the agenda. We apologize for the amount of censors, there's a few...2021-03-291h 41
Just a Couple KidsCouncilman Anthony CoghillThe kids pulled it off and got the most talked about elected official on the pod, Anthony Coghill to chat about his political career, District 4 and what he has planned if he runs for re-election...2021-03-221h 31Just a Couple KidsNews & Updates on the Mayoral RaceThe kids chat about all of the mayoral candidates, including the Brookline Together forum, UPMC, Parks Tax, campaign finance, snow removal and much more!2021-03-1558 minJust a Couple KidsPost-ACDC Endorsements feat. Patrick JoyalThe kids chat about everything that happened at the Allegheny County Democratic Committee endorsements on Sunday, March 7, 2021.2021-03-082h 03Just a Couple KidsBrief Addendum and Wrap Up Pre-EndorsementsRyan and Tony discuss their picks once again with some news about the candidates. Additionally chatting some COVID and sports talk to get you ready for your weekend!2021-03-0555 minJust a Couple KidsStatewide & County Judge Candidates feat. Patrick JoyalSpecial guest and PA campaign operative, Patrick Joyal joins the homies to kick some knowledge about the judicial primaries this spring.2021-03-012h 01Just a Couple KidsPittsburgh 2021 Primary - Mayoral & CouncilIt's the first shot at this podcast business where Ryan and Tony kick you some game and give you their opinions and a few facts about the Pittsburgh Mayoral and Council races this spring.2021-02-191h 02