June 24, 2025 SEASON 1

Direct Democracy Diaries (TRAILER)

Direct Democracy Diaries is a podcast exploring ballot measures from grassroots campaigns to transformative victories. Hosted by Chris Melody Fields Figueredo and Caroline Sánchez-Avakian from the Ballot Initiative Strategy Center, this show brings you stories of activists and organizers who’ve harnessed direct democracy to create change.

Whether you’re a seasoned ballot measure leader or a newcomer, tune in as we break it all down. Each episode features compelling stories from leaders, covering coalition building, signature gathering, defending victories, and showing how democracy works from the ground up.

More Episodes

September 9, 2026 SEASON 2

Building Democracy From the Ground Up: Kelley Robinson on Power, Joy, and, Belonging

In the season two opener of Direct Democracy Diaries, Chris Melody Fields Figueredo and Caroline Sánchez-Avakian speak with Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign and Human Rights Campaign Foundation, about the state of American democracy and what it takes to build lasting power. Kelley reflects on her family history, the fragility of civil rights, and why local organizing matters – from school boards to block parties. They discuss interconnected attacks on LGBTQ+ people and other communities, the need to move beyond defense, the role of storytelling and listening, and how organizers can stay focused amid constant crisis. Kelley also shares why joy, belonging, and community are essential to sustaining movements and creating a more inclusive democracy.

EPISODE DETAILS
Direct Democracy Diaries with Chris Melody Fields Figueredo & Caroline Sanchez-Avakian - Episode 7: Maurice Mitchell (featuring a black and white sketch of Maurice and a white BISC logo)

November 19, 2025 SEASON 1

Beyond the Ballot: Building Movements Through Ballot Measures with Maurice Mitchell

EPISODE DETAILS