Smiling man leaning close to a tan Shar-Pei dog, showing a warm, affectionate moment. Text overlay reads “Karl Cieslak” and “Beyond the Ballot,” with “Ballot” highlighted in blue against a dark background.

I’m excited to share that my new podcast, Beyond the Ballot, launches this week.

This is about more than politics—it’s about people, real conversations, and what truly drives change in our communities.

Follow along. First episode drops soon. 🎙️
#BeyondTheBallot #PodcastLaunch #Community #Leadership

Don’t assume midterms will be safe and fair to access, or that they will provide fair and accurate results.

People must do more BEYOND the ballot.

#BeyondTheBallot

Join Melissa Vargas and Norberto Gonzalez as they break down the results of California’s November 4th special election. 🗳️

In just 90 days, community leaders mobilized thousands across the state showing the power of grassroots organizing and Latino voter engagement. 💪

#PoderLatinx #BeyondTheBallot

🇬🇧 UK: Banksy exposed repression of Palestine activism with a mural on the Royal Courts of Justice.
The message is clear. Democracy begins at the ballot box-but doesn’t end there.

#UK #Banksy #FreedomOfExpression #RuleOfLaw #BeyondTheBallot

The Civic Exchange is launching September 1st 2025!

Scan the QR code to sign up for our newsletter and get in early on the action. Let’s build a thriving civic future — together.

civicexchange.org

#civicexchange #powertothepeople #BeyondTheBallot

John Lewis reminded us that movements for justice are not bound by election cycles. Presidents come and go. Liberation work must go on. #WisdomWednesday #JohnLewis #StruggleOfALifetime #BeyondTheBallot

Posting a flag in your bio is not activism.
Voting blue and walking away is not justice.
We are beyond aesthetics. We need policy. Urgency. Courage.
#RedFlagsInBlueSuits #BeyondTheBallot #PerformativePolitics #PeopleOverParty #PolicyNotPosture #PowerToThePeople #VoteInformed #ExposeTheFacade

The moment we realize the majority of us want the same things—healthcare, housing, dignity—they lose control. That's why they keep us divided.
#RedFlagsInBlueSuits #BeyondTheBallot #PerformativePolitics #SystemicTruth #PeopleOverParty #PolicyNotPosture #PowerToThePeople #VoteInformed#ExposeTheFacade