In this powerful episode of Voices of FLHD14: Love Thy Neighborhood, we spotlight Mason Shoemaker — a dynamic activist, political professional, and Junior at the University of North Florida majoring in political science. As the current President of the UNF College Democrats, Gen-Z Director for Donna Deegan’s historic 2023 mayoral campaign, Precinct Committeeman in the Duval County Democratic Executive Committee, and member of the Florida Democratic Party State Executive Committee, Mason is a force for change. With a wealth of campaign experience and a deep passion for public service, Mason discusses the critical importance of youth engagement in politics, especially during off-year elections. He shares his vision for building a Democratic Party that reflects the voices and needs of young people and how he's forging alliances with young leaders across Florida to drive a bold, inclusive future. Tune in for a conversation to energize and inspire the next generation of changemakers.

Discussion Topics for the Interview:

• Mason’s journey into political activism and leadership as a UNF student

• Lessons learned from serving as Gen-Z Director for Mayor Donna Deegan’s campaign

• The importance of getting young people involved during off-election years

• Building bridges: Forming a statewide network of young Democratic leaders

• Challenges young activists face when engaging with traditional political structures

• The future of the Democratic Party through the lens of Gen-Z priorities

• Strategies to make local politics more accessible and relatable for first-time voters

• Mason’s vision for Duval County, Florida, and youth participation beyond 2025

• Advice for young people thinking about getting involved in campaigns or advocacy work

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In this inspiring episode of Voices of Florida House District 14: Love Thy Neighborhood, host Therese V. Wakefield-Gamble (2026 Candidate for FLHD14) welcomes Michelle Buckley—an accomplished mortgage banking professional turned community powerhouse, public speaker, and environmental justice advocate.

With over 20 years of experience in mortgage finance, Michelle brings a wealth of knowledge in lending, project management, and economic development. Her personal journey—marked by resilience through grief, volunteer service, and a commitment to purpose—has evolved into a multifaceted career rooted in advocacy, empowerment, and environmental stewardship.

Michelle currently serves as the and as the Secretary and Treasurer of the Duval Democratic Environmental Caucus and the Chief Relationship Officer for the Jacksonville Black Chamber of Commercewhere she leads environmental education, financial transparency, and strategic partnerships to advance sustainability in our communities. As a Duval County Public Schools Parent Champion, former PTA president, and School Advisory Council Chair at John E. Ford Montessori, she fights tirelessly for educational equity, student access, and community-driven solutions.

From school board accountability to neighborhood revitalization and minority business empowerment, Michelle Buckley is a living example of service in action. Tune in to hear her powerful message about self-sustainability, economic justice, and planting seeds for generational change.

🎧 Premiering Thursday, May 22nd at 3 PM EST
📍 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, and all major platforms.

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In this powerful episode of Voices of Florida House District 14: Love Thy Neighborhood, we sit down with passionate advocate and former Florida House District 16 candidate Rachel Grage, whose tireless work continues to amplify the voices of everyday Floridians. A Jacksonville resident, Rachel has built a trusted platform that educates and empowers her community on the issues that matter most—rising insurance premiums, housing instability, healthcare access, public education, and the preservation of Florida’s natural environment.

Rachel joins host Therese V. Wakefield-Gamble to talk about her first time running for office in 2024, and after not making the mark to secure the seat, what was next for Rachel after all the energy from running as a FL State House District 16 Candidate. Rachel for Florida is where Rachel break down the legislative noise in Tallahassee and offer insight into how citizens can stay informed and get engaged—especially when political gridlock overshadows people’s needs. With a rich background in science, the arts, and decades of family caregiving, Rachel brings a unique blend of intellect, empathy, and lived experience to Florida’s civic discourse.

Now serving as Legislative Liaison for the Democratic Women’s Club of Florida, Rachel remains an active voice through her Rachel for Florida pages on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube—where she continues to decode policy, connect with constituents, and speak truth to power. Her unwavering mission: show up, speak out, and keep fighting for a Florida that puts people over politics.

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