Protests Don't Work, Or Do They?

Lost in Jersey

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What does protest mean in 2025—and does it still work?

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Julie Cohen—acclaimed filmmaker behind RBG and Julia—and her neighbor Liz Figenshu, a dedicated volunteer advocate. In the wake of growing political unrest, they found themselves walking the streets of Bloomfield, NJ, not just to clear their heads but to find a way forward. What emerged was organizing a weekly protest that has lasted over 21 consecutive Sundays.

However, this conversation extends far beyond one town or gathering. Together we explore what it means to protest in the modern era and whether the tactics of past movements—such as marches, signs, and physical presence—still hold power in today’s fragmented, digital, and deeply polarized world.

Julie and Liz discuss how authoritarian regimes thrive on chaos and isolation, and why their rallying cry, “You Are Not Alone” (YANA), is both a comfort and a call to action. We speak candidly about our doubts: Do small, local protests really change anything? Are we shouting into the void? Julie and Liz share the surprising joy that has emerged—friendship bracelets, multi-generational connections, laughter in the rain—as they’ve cultivated resistance rooted in community.

We discuss the long arc of protest history, from civil rights marches to the Women’s March, and ask: How do you keep showing up? What does resilience look like when news cycles move on, but injustice remains?

If you're wondering how to channel your concern into action, or wrestling with whether standing on a street corner with a sign still matters—this conversation offers honesty, perspective, and “micro hope.”

Because protest isn't just about the moment—it's about the momentum.

Follow Julie Cohen on Instagram

Chapters

1. Meeting Julie and Liz (00:00:00)

2. Starting a Weekly Protest Movement (00:04:10)

3. YANA: You Are Not Alone (00:08:25)

4. Questions About Protest Effectiveness (00:14:45)

5. Protecting Vulnerable Groups (00:22:10)

6. Building Community Through Action (00:32:05)

7. Micro Hope and Finding Joy Together (00:38:50)

8. What We Love About America (00:45:40)

133 episodes