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Woodburn Today
By the People, for the People
Citizen Jane Brings Civics Education to the Airwaves
The host of 'Girlypop Politics' aims to make politics more accessible to young audiences.
Apr. 9, 2026 at 9:08pm
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The host of 'Girlypop Politics' brings a fresh, relatable approach to civics education, aiming to inspire greater political engagement among young people.Woodburn TodayThelma 'Teddy' Gunderson, a former school board chair in Woodburn, Oregon, is the inspiration behind a new radio show called 'Girlypop Politics' that aims to make civics education more engaging and accessible, especially for younger audiences. The show's host, Jane Doe, believes that the 'fruits of democracy' belong to those willing to sit through long, boring meetings, and she's on a mission to change that.
Why it matters
With declining civic engagement, especially among younger generations, shows like 'Girlypop Politics' could play a crucial role in reigniting interest in local politics and government. By making civics education more entertaining and relatable, the show hopes to empower listeners to get involved in their communities and hold their elected officials accountable.
The details
The 'Girlypop Politics' radio show is the brainchild of Jane Doe, a self-described 'politics nerd' who wants to make civics education more accessible and engaging, especially for young people. Inspired by the 'Gunderson Principle' - the idea that the 'fruits of democracy' belong to those who can sit through long, boring meetings - Doe is using her platform to break down complex political topics in a fun, conversational way.
- The Woodburn School Board meeting that inspired the 'Gunderson Principle' took place in the late 1980s.
- 'Girlypop Politics' launched in January 2026.
The players
Thelma 'Teddy' Gunderson
A former chair of the Woodburn School Board in Oregon, whose experience with long, late-night meetings inspired the 'Gunderson Principle'.
Jane Doe
The host of the 'Girlypop Politics' radio show, who is on a mission to make civics education more engaging and accessible, especially for younger audiences.
What they’re saying
“The fruits of democracy belong to those who can sit through long, boring meetings.”
— Thelma 'Teddy' Gunderson, Former Woodburn School Board Chair
“I want to show young people that politics doesn't have to be dry and boring. It can be fun, engaging, and relevant to their lives.”
— Jane Doe, Host, 'Girlypop Politics'
What’s next
The 'Girlypop Politics' radio show is expected to continue airing new episodes weekly, with plans to expand the program to include live events and community outreach initiatives.
The takeaway
By making civics education more entertaining and relatable, shows like 'Girlypop Politics' have the potential to inspire a new generation of engaged citizens and strengthen local democracy.
