Maroon Bison Presents: The Southern Comfort Podcast
Hosted by veteran campaign operatives and HBCU alums Kevin Harris and Richard McDaniel, The Southern Comfort Podcast delivers unfiltered political analysis with a Southern perspective, drawing from over 40 years of combined experience shaping campaigns from City Hall to the White House. Each week, they break down complex policies, share insider stories, and explore the intersection of politics and culture, offering listeners a front-row seat to the strategies and wisdom that drive American politics.
Maroon Bison Presents: The Southern Comfort Podcast
Episode 9 | A Full Circle Moment: Finding Your Way in Politics Part One
What does it take to turn a quiet college kid into a political powerhouse? In this special episode, Rich and Kevin welcome Anthony “College” Davis, Jr.—a Morehouse man, campaign vet, and proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi—for a candid, hilarious, and heartfelt conversation on his journey from not voting in 2012 to running major organizing ops in 2020. From frat life to fried turkey runs in Alabama, this episode is a masterclass in growth, grit, and the power of HBCU networks. And if you’ve ever wondered what it really feels like to watch history unfold from behind the scenes, this one’s for you.
Topics
📍 03:10 – "PG County to the West End"
Anthony breaks down growing up in Maryland's Black excellence bubble and how a college tour unexpectedly rerouted his dreams toward Morehouse.
📍 13:00 – "I Didn’t Vote for Obama…"
Anthony drops the bombshell: he didn’t vote in 2012. But why? And how did that moment flip the switch for his future in politics?
📍 27:00 – "The First Campaign Hit Hard"
Thrown into Alabama with no plan and no housing, Anthony gets his crash course in political organizing—and earns his stripes fast.
📍 34:00 – "Campaigns Are Sports for Nerds"
How basketball, teamwork, and that competitive edge gave Anthony the mindset to crush campaign life like game day.
📍 50:56 – "Thanksgiving Turkey Test"
Rich sends Anthony on a last-minute Popeye’s mission across Alabama. A hazing moment? Maybe. But also a turning point in building trust and showing hustle.
🏆 Mamba Mentality Award Goes To…
🐍 Anthony Davis, Jr. – For going from a disengaged freshman to a frontline campaign leader. His transformation wasn’t just professional—it was personal, intentional, and inspiring. A living example of what happens when opportunity meets preparation and heart.