Straight out of Wisconsin and ready to step up to the plate, meet Travis Retzlaff.

Ever feel like politics is something that happens out there, far away from your daily life? In this episode of What Do We Do Next? I sat with Travis Retzlaff, a lifelong Wisconsin resident, parent, and tireless community volunteer who proves that real change starts in your own backyard.


Travis takes us inside his 15-year journey from knocking on doors and organizing neighbors to stepping up and running for office. We talk about what really gets people engaged in battleground states like Wisconsin, why credibility is built one volunteer shift at a time, and how small, steady wins can ripple into big impact.


If you’ve ever wondered how to move from frustration to action—or even dreamed of running for office yourself—Travis shares practical, encouraging advice for getting involved at any level. Whether you’re ready to lead or just looking for a meaningful way to help behind the scenes, this conversation will leave you with concrete steps, real stories, and a fresh sense of possibility.


Discover how ordinary people create extraordinary change, in this episode, starting right where they are.


Chapters:00:00 - Introduction00:40 - Parenthood Meets Political Awakening04:09 - “Self-Leadership and Personal Growth”08:14 - “Listen and Learn Approach”12:38 - Wisconsin Gerrymandering and Political Shift15:18 - “Empowering Citizens Through Direct Democracy”19:54 - Organizing: Building Relationships & Impact21:21 - Podcasting: A Hopeful Alternative24:07 - Finding Your Volunteer Sweet Spot30:04 - Disconnecting to Reconnect Locally32:05 - Effective Personal Video Introductions34:34 - “Finding Purpose in Volunteering”35:00 - Outro


Quotes:“Small acts of service with the right mindset create meaningful, lasting change.”- Travis Retzlaff


“Nobody’s coming to save us. Any contribution you can make—no matter how small—moves us- Molly Ruland


Key TakeawaysThe long road to public serviceServant leadership starts with self-leadershipVolunteering builds credibilityLocal engagement mattersSmall wins make a differenceThere’s a place for everyoneProgress goes beyond electionsTake the first step


Connect with Travis RetzlaffWebsite: http://www.travisretzlaff.comCampaign YouTube:   / @fightingforthefifthpersonal   YouTube -   / @travisretzlaff  


Call To ActionPlease consider joining our Substack (https://substack.com/@whatdowedonext) to help us get this message to as many people as possible. Podcast on News and Politics – What We Do We Do Next (https://whatdowedonext.us/)


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