A former ACORN whistleblower, Reid now organizes the annual Whistleblower Summit for Civil and Human Rights and advocates for those who risk everything to expose corruption, waste, fraud, and abuse.

In this powerful conversation, Reid explains why attacks on journalists and whistleblowers threaten democracy itself, how whistleblowers help reporters uncover the truth, and why Americans should be concerned about growing efforts to silence dissent.

She also discusses the hidden dangers facing vulnerable citizens under guardianship systems and why speaking truth to power has become increasingly difficult in today's political climate.

One of her most powerful warnings:

"Democracies don't last if people don't know the truth." — Marcel Reid

Topics include:

✅ Freedom of the press

✅ Whistleblower protections

✅ Donald Trump's attacks on journalists

✅ The role of investigative reporting

✅ Guardianship and conservatorship abuse

✅ Government accountability

✅ Civil rights and democracy

✅ The Whistleblower Summit

If you believe truth matters, this is a conversation you need to hear.

Subscribe to Lean to the Left for independent progressive commentary, in-depth interviews, and analysis that cuts through the noise.

Part of our continuing "Truth Under Attack" series:

Lilli McGregor: Can we trust our elections?

Alison Greene: Who uncovers the truth?

Marcel Reid: Who protects those brave enough to tell it?

Because democracy survives only when truth survives.

#Whistleblowers #FreePress #MarcelReid #Democracy #Journalism #Trump #CivilRights #GovernmentAccountability #investigativejournalism

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction: Why Press Freedom Matters

01:35 Marcel Reid's Warning About Democracy

03:00 When Facts Become "Just Opinions"

04:10 Why Journalists Need Whistleblowers

06:00 How Marcel Reid Became an ACORN Whistleblower

08:00 Organizing America's Whistleblower Community

09:00 The Whistleblower Summit & Film Festival

11:00 Guardianship Abuse and Vulnerable Americans

13:00 Alzheimer's, Conservatorships, and Family Rights

16:00 Protecting Society's Most Vulnerable

17:00 Epstein Victims and Speaking Out

18:00 Why Fewer Americans Are Reporting Wrongdoing

20:00 Why Whistleblowers Often Stand Alone

21:00 Fighting for Justice Without Financial Reward

22:00 Journalists and Whistleblowers: Democracy's Defenders

23:00 Chilling Free Speech and Public Dissent

24:00 What Really Happens When You Blow the Whistle

26:00 Advice for Future Whistleblowers

27:00 Resources for Whistleblowers

28:00 The Pillar Award and Courage in Public Life

29:00 Final Thoughts on Truth, Courage, and Democracy

30:00 Whistleblower Summit Information

Investigative journalist Alison Greene discusses her work examining Florida voter registration records and explains why the evidence she uncovered deserves immediate public attention and further independent review.

Greene assisted the Election Truth Alliance (ETA) investigation featured in our previous episode with Executive Director Lilli McGregor.

View that episode here: https://youtu.be/qu0jqq3CikA

But in this conversation, she takes viewers deeper into what she found in Florida, including claims involving so-called "ghost voters," missing voter records, unusual registration patterns, and public records that she argues raise troubling questions about election transparency and voter roll integrity.

Among the topics discussed:

• Why St. Lucie County became the focal point of her investigation

• Claims involving thousands of missing voter records

• The discovery of what Greene calls "ghost voters" in public databases

• Questions about voter registration anomalies and election oversight

• Why she believes these concerns extend beyond Florida

• What citizens can do now to verify their voter registration before the next election

This interview is Part 2 of Lean to the Left's examination of election integrity concerns raised by the Election Truth Alliance.

Part 1: Lilli McGregor discusses investigations in Florida, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina that she says uncovered statistical anomalies warranting independent review.

Part 2: Alison Greene provides a deeper look into Florida and explains why voters across America should pay attention.

Watch the interview. Examine the evidence presented. And decide for yourself.

Subscribe to Lean to the Left for independent journalism, political commentary, and conversations that challenge conventional wisdom.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: Election Questions in Florida

01:00 Meet Investigative Journalist Alison Greene

02:26 How Greene Became Involved in the Florida Investigation

05:24 Registration Numbers That "Didn't Add Up"

07:36 Voters Registering After the Deadline?

09:27 Missing Voters and the "Ghosting" Theory

11:02 Bob Woodward, Russia, and St. Lucie County

14:13 The Missing 25,000 Voter Records

17:05 Why St. Lucie County Matters

19:29 Patterns Emerging Across Florida

20:47 Introducing the "Ghost Voters"

23:14 Who Benefits? Following the Evidence

24:01 Jack Smith, Mar-a-Lago, and Voting Rights Allegations

30:31 Jamie Raskin's Question to Jack Smith

36:03 Looking for "Found Votes"

37:18 Invisible Houses and Phantom Addresses

39:26 Beyond Florida: Similar Patterns Elsewhere?

41:00 Trump's Fraud Claims Revisited

42:28 Responding to Critics

43:12 Why Greene Says This Matters Before the Midterms

46:22 What Voters Can Do Now

47:18 The "Ghost Catchers" Initiative

49:26 How Viewers Can Get Involved

50:28 Final Thoughts: Democracy and Courage

#GhostVoters #ElectionIntegrity #FloridaPolitics #VotingRights #ElectionTruthAlliance #AlisonGreene #Democracy #Politics #LeanToTheLeft

According to the nonpartisan Election Truth Alliance (ETA), statistical analyses in Florida, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and other states identified patterns that warrant further investigation.

In this episode of Lean to the Left, Bob Gatty speaks with ETA Executive Director Lilli McGregor about the organization's findings, ongoing legal action in Pennsylvania, concerns surrounding voting-system vulnerabilities, and why Florida may be one of the most significant cases under review.

ETA emphasizes that its findings do not prove fraud occurred. However, the organization argues that audits, hand counts, and additional investigation are necessary to ensure public confidence in future elections.

The conversation also explores:

✅ Voting machine vulnerabilities

✅ Election audits and recounts

✅ Pennsylvania election lawsuit

✅ Florida voter registration concerns

✅ Election security vs. voter fraud

✅ Why local election officials matter

✅ Protecting future elections

✅ What voters should know before the midterms

Whether you agree or disagree with ETA's conclusions, this conversation raises important questions about election transparency, public confidence, and how democracies safeguard the vote.

Guest: Lilli McGregor, Executive Director, Election Truth Alliance

Learn more about Election Truth Alliance: electiontruthalliance.org

ABOUT LEAN TO THE LEFT

Lean to the Left is an independent progressive news and commentary platform hosted by veteran journalist Bob Gatty. We feature conversations with authors, experts, activists, political leaders, and everyday Americans about the issues shaping our country.

🔔 Subscribe for more interviews, commentary, and analysis.

#ElectionIntegrity #ElectionSecurity #VotingRights #Democracy #VotingMachines #ElectionTruthAlliance #LilliMcGregor #BobGatty #LeanToTheLeft #Politics #ElectionTransparency #Voting #DemocracyMatters #ElectionAudit #electionreform

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: Can America Trust Its Elections?

01:00 Meet Lilli McGregor and the Election Truth Alliance

02:00 Are Voting Machines Vulnerable to Manipulation?

04:45 Why Some Countries Rejected Electronic Voting

07:00 What ETA Means by Election Security Risks

08:45 Statistical Red Flags in Election Data

10:30 Did Republicans Benefit from Election Irregularities?

12:15 ETA's Pennsylvania Investigation Explained

13:00 Bomb Threats, Machine Failures & Software Updates

16:00 Why Pennsylvania Became a Focus of Concern

16:45 North Carolina Findings Raise Questions

18:30 Who Benefited in North Carolina?

19:15 Following the Money: How ETA Is Funded

21:00 Addressing Claims of Partisanship

23:30 What Voters Should Know About Election Security

25:00 Why Local Election Officials Matter Most

26:45 Recounts, Audits & Protecting Future Elections

28:15 Florida Investigation Could Be Explosive

29:15 Who Benefited from the Florida Patterns?

30:00 Voter Fraud vs. Systemic Election Manipulation

31:15 How Citizens Can Get Involved

32:00 Final Thoughts & Where to Learn More

Retired Navy Command Master Chief and small business owner John Vincent says yes — and he explains why in this explosive interview with Lean to the Left host Bob Gatty.

Vincent, who is challenging MAGA Republican Congressman Russell Fry, argues that Fry’s unwavering loyalty to Donald Trump has made him vulnerable with independents, moderate Republicans, and frustrated voters across South Carolina.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Vincent discusses:

* Why he believes SC-7 is competitive

* How his military and business background shaped his campaign

* Why he calls himself a “fiscally conservative moderate Democrat”

* His plans to address veteran homelessness and addiction

* Concerns about Social Security solvency

* The impact of Trump’s influence on Republican politics

* Why he believes Democrats can compete in the South

Vincent also explains his grassroots strategy for overcoming Fry’s massive fundraising advantage and why he believes traditional political playbooks no longer work.

If you care about the future of democracy, veterans issues, economic accountability, and the battle for control of Congress, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

👉 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for independent political interviews and commentary focused on democracy, accountability, and social justice.

#JohnVincent #RussellFry #SouthCarolinaPolitics #SC7 #LeanToTheLeft #DonaldTrump #MAGA #CongressionalRace #VeteransIssues #SocialSecurity #Democrats #progressivepolitics

CHAPTERS:

00:00 – Introduction: Can John Vincent Flip SC-7?

00:45 – Why Vincent Believes Russell Fry Is Vulnerable

02:00 – How Navy Leadership & Business Experience Shape His Campaign

03:45 – The “10/10/15” Formula for Beating Fry

05:45 – Is MAGA Becoming a Liability for Republicans?

07:20 – Why Fry’s Trump Loyalty Could Hurt Him

08:15 – Lack of Support from Democratic Party Leaders

09:05 – The Massive Fundraising Gap: Fry vs. Vincent

10:00 – How Vincent Plans to Compete Without Big Money

11:30 – Why Vincent Says Somebody Has to Fight Back

13:15 – Grassroots Strategy & Building a Ground Game

14:05 – Coordinating With Local Democratic Candidates

15:00 – Why Personal Connections Beat TV Ads

15:40 – Vincent’s Event That Drew 326 People

17:45 – What a Vincent Victory Would Mean Nationally

18:45 – Could Democrats Flip 40 Congressional Seats?

19:20 – Vincent’s Key Campaign Issues & Policy Plans

19:45 – Fighting Tariffs & Economic Pain

20:10 – Tackling Veteran Homelessness & Addiction

20:40 – Saving Social Security & Fiscal Responsibility

22:00 – Why Vincent Opposes Deficit Spending

23:40 – Why Conservatives & Independents Are Listening

24:45 – Vincent’s Warning About Democracy & Trump

26:00 – January 6 Pardons & “Back the Blue” Hypocrisy

27:15 – How Viewers Can Support the Campaign

28:45 – Final Thoughts & Closing Remarks

Marine veteran and congressional candidate Sam Gibbons says yes.

In this revealing conversation with Bob Gatty on Lean to the Left, Gibbons explains why he’s challenging longtime Congressman Joe Wilson in South Carolina’s 2nd Congressional District — and why he believes Donald Trump has “bastardized” the Republican Party.

Gibbons discusses:

Why he opposes Trump’s policies and leadership style

His strong criticism of war with Iran

Concerns about Pete Hegseth and military leadership

Immigration, tariffs, and economic chaos

Organizing South Carolina “No Kings” rallies

Why he believes Republicans have been “sold a lie”

The future of the GOP beyond MAGA politics

A Marine veteran, teacher, and conservative who says he values honor, duty, and transparency, Gibbons offers a rare perspective from inside the Republican base in one of America’s reddest states.

Do you think voters are ready for Republicans who reject Trumpism?

👇 Join the conversation in the comments.

👍 Like

🔔 Subscribe

📢 Share this episode

#SamGibbons #SouthCarolinaPolitics #MAGA #Trump #Republicans #LeanToTheLeft #BobGatty #JoeWilson #CongressionalRace #Iran #Veterans #Politics

CHAPTERS:

00:00 – Intro: A Republican Challenging MAGA in South Carolina

01:05 – Why Sam Gibbons Decided to Run for Congress

02:10 – Conservative Values vs. Trump Politics

03:18 – Organizing South Carolina “No Kings” Rallies

05:05 – Trump, Iran, and the Dangers of War

06:18 – Would He Refuse an Illegal Military Order?

07:20 – Veterans, Moral Injury & Military Suicide Concerns

08:05 – Pete Hegseth Under Fire

09:35 – Senator Kelly and Illegal Orders Debate

10:40 – Why Gibbons Rejects MAGA Politics

12:00 – Honor, Duty & Transparency

13:00 – “Trump Is a Snake Oil Salesman”

13:40 – Can He Beat Joe Wilson?

14:35 – Tariffs, Trade Wars & Economic Damage

16:00 – Immigration, USAID & Global Stability

17:10 – Trump’s Immigration Policies & Labor Shortages

19:00 – Fear, Xenophobia & “Politics of Vibes”

21:05 – Farmers, Inflation & Rising Costs

21:35 – Dominion Energy Rate Hikes in South Carolina

22:30 – Understanding South Carolina’s 2nd District

23:35 – Teaching, Military Prep & Demographics

25:05 – How Trump Changed the Republican Party

26:05 – Are Cracks Forming Inside the GOP?

26:40 – Friends, Family & Speaking Out Against Trump

27:25 – “Be Brave in Your Values”

29:00 – Final Thoughts & Closing Remarks

Investigative journalist Nick Bryant joins the Lean to the Left podcast to discuss his 15 years-long investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, alleged government cover-ups, trafficking victims, blackmail claims, and why he says “the cover-up never ended.”

Bryant helped bring worldwide attention to the Epstein scandal after publishing Epstein’s “Black Book” and flight logs online in 2015. He is also the author of Compromised: The Politics of Sex, Lies, and Blackmail and director of the nonprofit organization Epstein Justice.

In this interview, Bryant discusses:

🔥 Why he believes multiple administrations protected Epstein

🔥 Claims of a broader trafficking and blackmail network

🔥 The significance of Epstein’s Black Book and flight logs

🔥 Ghislaine Maxwell’s conviction and unanswered questions

🔥 Alleged failures by the DOJ and FBI

🔥 Why victims still haven’t received full justice

🔥 The push for an independent congressional investigation

Bryant also explains why he believes both Republicans and Democrats have failed to fully expose the Epstein network and what Americans can do to demand transparency.

Another nugget: Bryant believes Epstein was murdered in his cell, that he did NOT commit suicide as the government claims.

👉 Learn more about Epstein Justice: https://EpsteinJustice.com

👉 Visit Nick Bryant’s website: https://NickBryantNYC.com

👉 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for more interviews and political commentary.

Lean to the Left: Stay Informed. Speak Up. Join the Conversation.

#JeffreyEpstein #NickBryant #EpsteinFiles #EpsteinCoverup #GhislaineMaxwell #InvestigativeJournalism #HumanTrafficking #Politics #LeanToTheLeft #BobGatty

CHAPTERS:

00:00 – Intro: Epstein Questions Won’t Go Away

01:05 – Why Nick Bryant Started Investigating Epstein

02:15 – The Franklin Scandal Connection

03:00 – Discovering Epstein’s Black Book

03:45 – Victims Speak Out

04:20 – Epstein’s Inner Circle & Sarah Kellen

05:10 – “Epstein Was Protected”

06:00 – DOJ, FBI & Acosta Controversy

07:05 – Bryant: “The Coverup Never Ended”

07:45 – Why Bryant Rejects the Official Narrative

08:30 – Victims Failed by the Justice System

09:30 – Compensation Program Controversies

10:10 – Claims About the Scale of Abuse

10:40 – Why Transparency Matters

11:20 – The Push for an Independent Commission

12:00 – Inside Epstein Justice

12:45 – Political Support on Capitol Hill

13:00 – What Was in Epstein’s Black Book?

13:50 – Alleged Blackmail Operations

14:35 – Secret Surveillance Rooms Explained

15:20 – Did Epstein Die by Suicide?

16:00 – Theories About a Larger Organization

17:00 – The History of Political Blackmail

18:00 – Why Ghislaine Maxwell Became the “Fall Guy”

18:50 – Will There Ever Be More Prosecutions?

19:30 – Bryant’s Long Fight for Accountability

20:15 – Why He Focused on Child Trafficking Cases

22:00 – How to Support Epstein Justice

22:40 – Final Thoughts & Closing Remarks

On this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, Bob Gatty talks with Dr. Adam Cunningham, founder of Sylk Health, about the hidden costs of healthcare, the medical debt crisis, and why millions of Americans are struggling to afford treatment.

They discuss:

• Why hospital pricing is intentionally hidden

• How medical debt drives bankruptcy in America

• Why healthcare has become a social justice issue

• The shocking cost differences between U.S. and overseas treatment

• Medical tourism and affordable care abroad

• Insurance companies, hospital lobbying, and pharmaceutical profits

• Medicare, supplemental insurance, and rising costs for seniors

• Alzheimer’s care and the crushing financial burden on families

• Why meaningful healthcare reform remains so difficult

Dr. Cunningham explains how Sylk Health compares medical procedure costs between the U.S. and accredited hospitals in China, giving patients new options when facing massive medical bills.

This conversation goes beyond politics and gets to the heart of a broken healthcare system that leaves working families drowning in debt while corporations profit.

🔔 Subscribe for more progressive political commentary, interviews, and analysis from the Lean to the Left podcast.

💬 What has YOUR experience been with healthcare costs in America? Share your story in the comments.

🌐 Visit: Lean to the Left

🌐 Learn more about Sylk Health

#Healthcare #MedicalDebt #HealthcareReform #MedicalTourism #Medicare #BigPharma #HealthcareCosts #SocialJustice #LeanToTheLeft #progressivepoliticsexplained

CHAPTERS:

00:00 – Intro: Healthcare as a Social Justice Issue

01:00 – Meet Dr. Adam Cunningham of Sylk Health

02:00 – Why U.S. Healthcare Prices Are Hidden

03:05 – Hospitals Profit From Patient Confusion

04:10 – Why Americans Never See Prices Up Front

05:00 – Medical Debt and Bankruptcy in America

06:00 – Americans Seeking Treatment Abroad

07:05 – The Shocking Cost of Hip Replacement Surgery

08:00 – Why Many People Avoid Medical Care

09:00 – Medicare, Supplemental Insurance & Rising Costs

10:05 – Bob Discusses Alzheimer’s Care Expenses

11:15 – Why Long-Term Care Is Financially Crushing Families

12:20 – Wealth Extraction in the Healthcare Industry

13:15 – Understaffed Memory Care Facilities

14:30 – How Other Countries Handle Elder Care

15:20 – Should America Have Medicare for All?

16:30 – Why Healthcare Reform Is So Difficult

17:00 – What Sylk Health Actually Does

18:00 – Comparing U.S. vs China Surgery Prices

19:15 – The Rise of Medical Tourism

20:15 – Why Healthcare Costs Keep Rising

21:00 – Can the American Healthcare System Change?

22:00 – Politics, Lobbyists & Healthcare Money

24:00 – Hospital Price Transparency Failures

25:00 – Why Most Hospitals Ignore Transparency Laws

26:00 – Insurance Companies vs Patients

27:00 – Outrageous Hospital Markups Exposed

28:30 – Pharmaceutical Advertising & Lobbying

30:00 – Big Pharma’s Influence on Congress

31:00 – How to Learn More About Sylk Health

32:00 – Final Thoughts & Closing Remarks

On this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, orthopedic surgeon and author Dr. Erica Rowe Urquhart joins Bob Gatty to expose what she calls the “hidden cause” of America’s healthcare crisis. Drawing on two decades of frontline medical experience, Dr. Urquhart explains how insurance companies use prior authorizations, retroactive denials, confusing billing systems, and corporate-driven policies to delay care and maximize profits — often at the expense of patients and doctors alike. 

Topics discussed include:

• Why healthcare costs are hidden from patients

• How insurance companies profit from delaying care

• The burden of Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement systems

• Why doctors spend huge amounts of time on paperwork instead of patients

• How AI could help modernize healthcare administration

• Prescription drug pricing and pharmaceutical greed

• Trump and the Affordable Care Act

• Whether Medicare for All is realistic

• The future of independent medical practices

Dr. Urquhart’s book, The Invisible Hand Wielding the Scalpel: The Hidden Cause of America’s Health Care Crisis, is an Amazon bestseller and offers an insider’s look at how corporate healthcare impacts real people every day. 

👉 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for progressive political commentary, expert interviews, and discussions on the issues shaping America today.

#Healthcare #Medicare #InsuranceCompanies #HealthcareReform #LeanToTheLeft #ProgressivePolitics #MedicalCosts #AffordableCareAct #AIinHealthcare #BigInsurance

CHAPTERS:

00:00 – Intro: America’s Healthcare Crisis

01:02 – Why Healthcare Became a “Race to the Bottom”

02:45 – Insurance Companies vs. Patient Care

04:10 – Are Delays and Denials Intentional?

05:30 – Why Patients Never Know Healthcare Costs Up Front

08:05 – The Confusing Reality of Medical Billing

10:05 – Medicare, Medicaid and Low Reimbursements

12:10 – What “Utilization Management” Really Means

13:15 – Why Older Patients Get Denied Care

15:10 – The Burden of Insurance Regulations on Doctors

17:25 – How Medical Practices Are Forced Into Bureaucracy

18:05 – Can AI Fix Healthcare Administration?

19:10 – Why Insurance Standards Make No Sense

20:00 – Electronic Records and the “Dark Ages” of Healthcare

21:45 – Bob Gatty’s Personal Experience With Orthopedic Surgery

22:10 – Is Medicare for All Realistic?

23:30 – How Healthcare Costs Are Crushing Families

24:15 – Trump and the Affordable Care Act

25:20 – Why Prescription Drug Prices Are So High

27:05 – The Five-Letter Word Driving Healthcare: “Greed”

27:40 – The Best Part of Being an Orthopedic Surgeon

29:20 – The Biggest Challenges Facing Doctors Today

30:20 – Why Independent Medical Practices Are Disappearing

31:10 – Why Dr. Urquhart Wrote Her Book

32:10 – Final Message: There Is Still Hope for Healthcare Reform

📌 America’s healthcare system is supposed to care for patients — so why do insurance companies seem to control everything?

In this eye-opening conversation, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Erica Urquhart explains how prior authorizations, claim denials, hidden billing practices, and corporate greed are driving America’s healthcare crisis while patients and doctors pay the price.

💬 Have you or your family ever struggled with insurance denials, outrageous medical bills, or delays in care?

Share your story in the comments.

🎧 Watch the full interview here and don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT and SUBSCRIBE to Lean to the Left for more conversations that matter.

#HealthcareCrisis #HealthcareReform #InsuranceCompanies #Medicare #LeanToTheLeft

In this eye-opening episode of Lean to the Left, Bob Gatty interviews physician and author Steven Bezruchka, whose new book Born Sick in the USA exposes the real reasons behind America’s declining health.

👉 It’s not just healthcare.

👉 It’s inequality.

👉 It’s early childhood conditions.

👉 It’s political choices.

Bezruchka reveals:

Why U.S. healthcare spending doesn’t translate into better outcomes

How income inequality is literally shortening American lives

Why early childhood (the first 1,000 days) determines lifelong health

How U.S. policies compare to other wealthy nations

Why even wealthy Americans are less healthy than their peers abroad

The dangerous role of profit-driven healthcare

💡 Key takeaway: Healthcare accounts for only about 10% of what keeps us alive—the rest is driven by social and economic factors.

This conversation will challenge everything you think you know about health in America.

📘 Learn more about Born Sick in the USA and how policy decisions shape your health.

Here's an Amazon link for the book: https://amzn.to/4nqwYsV

👍 LIKE | 💬 COMMENT | 🔔 SUBSCRIBE

Support independent media: Lean to the Left

CAPTIONS:

01:12 Why US Health Lags

02:20 Measuring Health by Mortality

04:36 Inequality and Early Life

05:52 Healthcare Only 10 Percent

07:42 Health Not Individual Control

09:52 Why Politics Ignore It

11:13 Health Olympics Gap

13:05 Money in Politics

14:05 Trump Policies and Inequality

20:00 Universal Healthcare Debate

20:59 Vaccines and Personal Freedom

22:34 Pledge and Indoctrination

23:27 ER Medicine Then and Now

24:05 Billing Incentives Begin

25:06 EMRs Built to Upcode

26:43 Systems Dont Talk

27:30 Medicare Bills Confusion

29:01 Medicare Changed Money

29:54 When Care Causes Harm

32:04 Private Equity Takeover

33:54 Born Sick Explained

36:35 Where to Get Books

38:15 Healing America Channel

40:32 Healthy in Debt Social

41:30 Substack and Signoff

In this episode of Lean to the Left, host Bob Gatty conducts a fascinating interview with author Paul McGrath about his mind-bending sci-fi series Terran Incognito—including his latest book Left Is Right.

McGrath uses alien characters to tackle real-world issues like:

Gun violence in America

Militia extremism

Human trafficking

Political division and MAGA influence

A former journalist, McGrath explains how fiction allows him to say what he couldn’t in the newsroom—and why today’s political climate is giving him more material than ever.

👉 What happens when all civilian guns suddenly disappear?

👉 Can satire expose truths politics ignores?

👉 And what would outsiders think of America today?

This is sci-fi with a purpose—and a warning.

📚 Get Paul McGrath’s book: https://amzn.to/3OqXNA5

👍 Like, share, and subscribe for more interviews and commentary on politics and social issues.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Welcome and UFOs

01:22 Meet Paul McGrath

03:07 Origin Story Uvalde to Sci Fi

05:00 Journalism to Social Satire

07:24 Publishing Delays and Amazon

09:04 Guns Vanish What If

11:17 Human Trafficking Texas Angle

12:39 Why Left Is Right

14:45 Trump Iran and Interference

20:05 Writing Amid Trump Chaos

23:18 Misinformation MAGA and AI

24:50 Where to Buy and Wrap Up

26:11 Final Thanks and Subscribe

In this revealing interview, retired FBI agent Eric Robinson joins Lean to the Left to expose what’s really happening inside federal law enforcement—and how political pressure may be shaping investigations.

Robinson, who served 24 years in the FBI—including work tied to January 6 cases—offers a rare insider perspective on:

+ Trump-era directives targeting “left-wing dissent”

+ The truth about Antifa investigations

+ How FBI priorities shift under different administrations

+ First Amendment concerns and law enforcement limits

+ The reality of January 6 cases inside the Bureau

+ Why the Epstein case represents a major failure of justice

He also shares his remarkable personal journey—from Baptist minister to FBI SWAT team member—and how his experiences reshaped his views on faith, justice, and America.

This is a candid, thought-provoking conversation you won’t hear anywhere else.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Welcome and Setup

00:23 FBI Training Local Police

03:22 How Directives Reach Field

07:20 Two FBIs Explained

08:53 January 6 Case Fallout

10:47 Notable Cases and BLM Fraud

14:22 From Pastor to FBI

16:12 Faith Deconstruction and Family

20:45 Epstein Files and Accountability

22:23 Book Announcement and Release

26:35 Beard Rules and SWAT Story

28:04 Wrap Up and Thanks

👉 Subscribe for more interviews that focus on substance, not sensationalism.

On this episode of Lean to the Left, host Bob Gatty speaks with entrepreneur and reform advocate Tom Joseph to explore a bold, outside-the-box solution that could fundamentally change how candidates are chosen—and who really holds power in our elections. It's a system intended to make the nominating process fair for all, regardless of party affiliation.

Joseph introduces Wilson’s Fountain and the Main Street Party, a technology-driven initiative designed to:

• Put voters—not party insiders—in control

• Eliminate backroom deals in candidate selection

• Challenge gerrymandering and political gridlock

• Open the door to true competition in every district

At the heart of his idea is a powerful concept:

👉 “The people are the whip.”

Instead of politicians controlling the system, this model flips the script—giving everyday Americans the power to evaluate candidates, shape nominations, and demand accountability.

But can it actually work?

And more importantly… will the political establishment ever allow it?

🎧 Watch the full conversation and decide for yourself.

🔔 Subscribe & Stay Engaged

👉 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for bold conversations, political insight, and solutions that challenge the status quo.

👉 New episodes weekly.

💬 Join the Conversation

Do you think the two-party system is broken?

Could a system like this actually work?

Drop your thoughts in the comments 👇

🔗 Learn More

🌐 Main Street Party: https://mainstreetparty.org

CHAPTERS:

0:00 – Is the Two-Party System Broken?

1:12 – Meet Tom Joseph & The Big Idea

3:45 – What Is Wilson’s Fountain?

6:20 – Rethinking How Candidates Are Chosen

9:10 – “The People Are the Whip” Explained

12:05 – How the Main Street Party App Works

15:40 – Giving Voters Real Power

18:25 – The Role of Students & Tech Innovation

21:10 – Fighting Gerrymandering

24:30 – Resistance from the Political Establishment

27:15 – Can This Actually Work?

30:05 – What Happens Next?

32:10 – Final Thoughts: A New Path Forward

In this powerful episode of Dixie Dems, host Bob Gatty is joined by co-hosts Arthur Hill (North Carolina Democratic Party leader) and Robert Thompson (Georgia-based podcaster) to explore the evolving political landscape across the South.

🎙️ Special Guest: Grace Cowan

Founder, organizer, and co-host of the Frogmore Stew podcast, Grace shares how grassroots efforts in South Carolina are challenging the status quo—even in heavily gerrymandered districts.

🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why Democrats are running candidates in every single South Carolina state legislative district—even the toughest ones--for the first time in many years.

How gerrymandering has shaped Southern politics—and how activists are pushing back

The strategy behind forcing “safe seat” politicians to actually compete

Why grassroots organizing could reshape the South’s political future

The importance of messaging, identity, and voter engagement

What’s next for South Carolina and the broader Southern political landscape

💡 Key Takeaway:

Progress doesn’t only come from winning elections—it comes from showing up, organizing, and refusing to concede entire communities.

👉 Subscribe for more progressive conversations:

Lean to the Left Podcast

👉 Listen to more Dixie Dems episodes:

https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

👉 Follow & Support the Movement:

Your voice matters—especially in the South.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Welcome to Dixie Dems

01:23 Hair Talk Cold Open

02:46 Run Every Seat Strategy

04:57 North Carolina Playbook

06:45 Expose Gerrymandering

08:44 Voting Rights Crackdown

10:43 Disruptor Ads Approach

11:37 Annie Andrews vs Graham

14:52 Democrats Need Branding

19:44 Sanford and Mace Drama

21:04 South Carolina Governor Race

22:00 Candidate Scandal Fallout

22:47 Jermaine Johnson Stays In

24:00 Building the Party Bench

25:08 Name Recognition Matters

28:16 Training Candidates Basics

29:30 Gerrymandering Workarounds

31:17 Straight Ticket Voting Tricks

33:38 Trump Mail Voting Hypocrisy

36:20 MAGA Media Silo Explained

37:34 Voting by Class Debate

41:03 Frogmore Stew Podcast Plug

43:52 Wrap Up and Thanks

In this commentary, Bob Gatty breaks down the growing gap between Donald Trump’s campaign promises and today’s reality, including a new conflict with Iran that has already cost American lives.

This isn’t just politics—it’s about accountability, democracy, and the future of the country.

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👉 Join the conversation

👉 Share this episode

#NoKings #Trump #Politics #Democracy #Protests

Watergate scandal, but ended up resigning instead. Despite some of his positive achievements, he is generally considered a bad president. But what about Trump? Is he worse?

In this episode of Lean to the Left, host Bob Gatty is joined by novelist and podcaster Laura VanWormer, creator of the serialized audio fiction podcast Class of ’74.

The conversation explores the dynamics of political power through a compelling comparison of Donald Trump and Richard Nixon, with VanWormer offering a provocative take on why Nixon—despite his flaws—represented a more functional form of leadership.

Laura also shares her deeply personal journey following a devastating car accident that forced her to step away from writing novels—and how that loss unexpectedly gave rise to Class of ’74, a podcast that blends 1970s nostalgia, political backdrop, and soap-opera storytelling into a modern audio experience enjoyed by listeners around the world.

This episode is a reflection on:

• Political leadership and historical perspective

• Resilience after personal tragedy

• Podcasting as a new literary frontier

• Humor as a survival tool in dark political times

Thoughtful, funny, and deeply human, this conversation is a reminder of the enduring power of storytelling—and the importance of laughter when confronting history and the present moment.

👉 Subscribe for more conversations on politics, culture, and the people shaping how we understand them.

👉 Like & share if you believe stories still matter.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Lean To the Left

00:29 Comparing Trump and Nixon

01:00 Introducing Laura VanWormer

01:13 Laura's High School Reunion and Podcast

01:55 Weather and Small Talk

03:13 Details About the Class of 74 Podcast

09:00 Laura's Personal Story and Accident

11:45 The Impact of Laura's Podcast

13:20 Writing and Voices

13:38 Trump vs. Nixon

14:12 Nixon's Environmental and Media Policies

15:21 Nixon's Downfall and Resignation

16:33 Personal Reflections on Nixon Era

17:09 Nixon's Draft and Popularity

20:32 Comparing Nixon and Trump

21:25 High School Memories and Politics

23:34 Teenagers and Social Media

25:26 Books and Writing Career

26:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty is joined by human rights attorney Joshua Colangelo-Bryan, special counsel at Human Rights First and author of "Through the Gates of Hell: American Injustice at Guantanamo Bay".

Joshua has spent more than two decades challenging the injustices of Guantanamo Bay. He explains how fear-driven narratives allowed indefinite detention, torture, and the erosion of due process—and why those same tactics are now being repurposed in immigration policy.

We discuss:

• The true legacy of Guantanamo Bay

• How demagoguery targets immigrants and minorities

• The use of cruelty as political theater

• Parallels to Japanese American internment

• Why empathy and the rule of law still matter

This conversation is a sobering reminder of what happens when executive power goes unchecked—and why human stories are essential to defending democracy.

📘 Through the Gates of Hell is available through major retailers and local bookstores.

🎧 Listen, subscribe, and join the conversation at Lean to the Left.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:10 Trump's Immigration Policies and Guantanamo Bay

01:03 Guest Introduction: Joshua Colangelo Bryan

01:21 The Legal Battle and Personal Bond

16:28 Current State of Guantanamo and Immigration Policies

19:21 Broader Implications and Political Commentary

22:30 Discussion on Venezuela and Foreign Policy

29:01 Closing Thoughts and Book Information

🔍 What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why federal environmental protections have eroded — and what states are doing instead

• How states act as “laboratories of innovation” for environmental health

• The growing role of local governments, school boards, and city councils

• How everyday environmental choices affect public health

• Why collective community action can drive lasting change

Kaplan highlights successful policies from states like Massachusetts, New York, and Texas, along with regional collaborations that prove environmental protection and economic efficiency can go hand in hand.

🌱 This conversation is a hopeful reminder that progress is possible — and often starts close to home.

📘 Learn more about Susan Kaplan’s work and her book A Healthy Union

🎧 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for more conversations on progressive politics, climate, and social justice

👍 Like, comment, and share to support independent progressive media

Amazon book Link: https://amzn.to/4acwEsy

NOTE: Susan Kaplan is offering listeners ands viewers of this podcast a 20% discount on the price of her book. To obtain that discount visit www.islandpress.org and use the code word: UNION.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Lean to the Left Podcast

00:20 Meet Susan Kaplan: Environmental Health Expert

01:34 The History of Environmental Protection in the US

03:46 State-Level Environmental Health Policies

05:16 Challenges and Solutions in Environmental Protection

08:17 Local Government's Role in Environmental Health

09:31 Practical Tips for Individuals

11:43 Encouraging Local Government Action

15:03 Best Practices and Case Studies

17:03 Susan Kaplan's Career Journey

19:12 Current Issues and Final Thoughts

20:40 Where to Find Susan's Book

22:12 Conclusion and Optimism for the Future

Host Bob Gatty (South Carolina) is joined by Arthur Hill, Vice Chair of the Brunswick County (NC) Democratic Party, and Robert Thompson, a bold progressive voice from Georgia.

Our special guest this episode is Robin Biro—a South Carolina native, Army Ranger veteran, former campaign director for the Barack Obama campaign, and longtime political commentator on Fox News and Newsmax.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Trump’s influence on U.S. military and foreign policy, including Venezuela and oil politics

• Concerns about political retaliation within the armed forces

• Georgia’s evolving political landscape, including the Senate race and figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene

• South Carolina’s gubernatorial race, featuring Mullins McLeod and Dr. Jermaine Johnson

• Fractures inside Southern Republican parties—and opportunities for Democrats

• Veterans’ voices in politics and the risks facing democratic institutions

• Social justice, ICE accountability, systemic racism, and protest movements

• A powerful firsthand story exposing healthcare inequities in Georgia

As Trump looms over upcoming elections and Southern politics continue to shift, Dixie Dems remains committed to honest conversation, accountability, and progressive action.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Dixie Dems

00:39 Meet Our Special Guest: Robin Biro

01:57 Venezuela and US Military Strategy

06:56 Political Climate in Georgia

08:20 Marjorie Taylor Greene and Upcoming Elections

12:26 South Carolina Political Landscape

15:21 Balancing Life and Politics

15:56 Campaign Strategies and Fundraising

17:18 Political Landscape in South Carolina

18:37 Republican Party Fractures

20:01 Trump's Controversial Election Ideas

22:18 Protests and Police Shootings

27:14 Healthcare System Failures

28:43 Closing Remarks and Farewells

👍 Like, subscribe, and share to support independent progressive media.

🎧 Listen to more episodes at LeanToTheLeft.net

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, McLeod, a Charleston attorney, also addresses his May disturbing the peace arrest when he was found walking the streets at night shirtless, and police say, in his boxer shorts.

McLeod says he did nothing wrong, that his behavior resulted from the stress of preparing for his campaign and the affect of taking Adderall for a long period of time. His attorneys are seeking to have the charges dropped.

A fourth-generation public servant, McLeod lays out a bold vision in the interview for a government that works for the people — not wealthy donors or corporate interests.

🔥 What We Cover:

• The fight against corruption and donor-driven politics

• Why South Carolina still has no minimum wage

• The economic and ethical risks of unchecked AI expansion

• The dangers of for-profit decision-making in healthcare and housing

• His commitment to transparency — including upcoming disclosure about his arrest

• How grassroots donors can reshape political leadership

McLeod argues that South Carolina deserves servant leadership, fair wages, and an accountable public system — and he’s ready to take on entrenched interests to make that happen.

🎧 Listen now and decide if Mullins McLeod is the voice of change South Carolina has been waiting for.

👉 Subscribe for more interviews, commentary, and perspectives on politics and democracy.

#SouthCarolina #SCPolitics #MullinsMcLeod #LeanToTheLeft #Democracy #PoliticalCorruption #MinimumWage #GrassrootsPower #BobGatty

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

00:14 Mullins McLeod's Background and Legal Career

00:46 The Arrest Incident and Campaign Transparency

01:33 Motivation for Running for Governor

01:59 Addressing Political Corruption in South Carolina

03:13 Servant Leadership and Legal Achievements

05:12 Economic Issues and Livable Wage

07:09 Political Corruption and Power Companies

09:47 Family Legacy and Public Service

11:31 Housing Market and AI Concerns

21:44 Healthcare and Medicaid Expansion

24:22 Republican Candidates and Trump

26:33 Political Corruption and Oil Exploitation

28:23 Trump and Political Blame Game

29:55 Economic Inequality and Political Corruption

34:58 The Arrest Incident and Legal Battle

45:36 Campaign Vision and Funding

48:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

At a time when Americans feel overwhelmed by climate change, racial injustice, economic inequality, and threats to democracy, Brownstein challenges the idea that only institutions or powerful leaders can make a difference. Instead, he introduces “both-and” thinking: the idea that personal choices and collective action are not opposites—but partners.

From voting and social influence to community organizing and combating misinformation, this conversation digs into how small, visible actions can ripple outward, shaping norms, inspiring others, and building momentum for real reform. Brownstein also addresses political polarization, loyalty to authoritarian figures, and how despair can be broken through connection and shared purpose.

This episode is a powerful reminder that change doesn’t start “somewhere else”—it starts with people who decide to act -- and that's especially important in this era of Donald Trump and his apparent desire to be dictator of the world.

📘 "Somebody Should Do Something" is available via Amazon at https://amzn.to/499oO2p and independent bookstores, with an audio edition coming soon.

👍 Like

🔔 Subscribe

💬 Share your thoughts in the comments

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: The Urgency of Social Change

00:31 Meet the Author: Michael Brownstein

01:12 The Motivation Behind the Book

02:34 From Scholarly Work to Public Engagement

04:49 The Need for Structural Change

08:07 Individual Actions and Social Influence

14:45 Challenges in American Politics

18:29 Loyalty to Trump: Analyzing the Phenomenon

25:54 Trump's Impact on Climate Change Efforts

28:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty speaks with former senior USAID official Clifford Brown about the far-reaching consequences of the Trump administration’s decision to dismantle the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

Brown, who left a lucrative legal career to serve in public service, shares firsthand accounts from his work in Kenya, Guatemala, Honduras, West Africa, and post-Soviet states. He explains how USAID programs provided food security, healthcare, and economic opportunity—and how their abrupt termination has contributed to increased suffering, instability, and migration pressures.

The conversation explores:

• Why the shutdown of USAID was celebrated by some Trump administration officials who enjoyed a big sheet cake—and devastating for millions who because of their actions would have very little to eat

• The real-world consequences of ending global health and development programs

• The moral and political challenges of democracy-building abroad

• Corruption, cultural conflict, and the limits of foreign intervention

• Why restoring USAID matters for America’s global credibility

Brown also discusses his book, Inside USAID: An Odyssey of Foreign Assistance, a deeply personal account of the triumphs and failures of U.S. foreign aid.

🎙️ Subscribe to Lean to the Left for in-depth conversations on politics, policy, and the real human impact of government decisions.

👉 Stay informed. Speak up. Join the conversation.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: The Heinous Act of Defunding USAID

01:09 Guest Introduction: Clifford Brown's Journey

02:16 The Impact of USAID's Elimination

02:52 Clifford's Career and Experiences

06:45 Global Consequences of Defunding USAID

10:17 Humanitarian Crises and USAID's Role

18:35 Challenges in Promoting Democracy

20:48 Controversial Topics and Personal Stories

26:04 Clifford's Book and Final Thoughts

In this special holiday episode, Bob Gatty (South Carolina), Arthur Hill (North Carolina), and Robert Thompson (Georgia) share season’s greetings while digging into what’s ahead for Democrats in the South as 2026 comes into view.

🎄 In this episode, we discuss:

• Georgia’s increasingly competitive governor’s race and growing Democratic momentum
• North Carolina’s political crossroads and the lasting legacy of Democratic leadership
• Surprising new polling in South Carolina that could spell trouble for longtime GOP incumbents
• Why Democrats must reclaim their history of progress, fairness, and opportunity

The holidays may be a time for reflection—but the Dixie Dems are clear: the South has a voice, and it’s getting bluer.

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty sits down with Carl Able, retired Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant, founder of Crayon Box Politics, and co-host of the Crayon Box Weekly podcast, to explore his powerful journey from Republican to Democrat.

Carl explains how a deep review of party platforms—and a reckoning with human rights issues like healthcare, reproductive freedom, immigration, and LGBTQ+ rights—led him to conclude that the modern Republican Party no longer reflected his values. What followed was not just a change in party registration, but a complete political realignment grounded in principle and clarity -- to the point where Able plans to run for Congress from North Carolina, as a Democrat.

Drawing on his Marine Corps experience, Carl discusses leadership, critical thinking, and the danger of political tribalism. He also explains the mission behind Crayon Box Politics, an initiative designed to cut through political noise and make government processes understandable for everyday Americans.

Commenting on the current controversy over Defense Secretary Hegseth reportedly ordering a second strike to kill two sailers clutching to their bombed out fishing boat, Abel says the order was illegal and that he would not have followed it.

Looking ahead, Carl shares his plans for an AI-powered civic education tool and his goal of running for Congress in North Carolina’s 3rd District in 2028, focused on veterans’ issues, coastal protection, and economic opportunity.

This conversation is a call to engagement, courage, and honest dialogue—proof that political growth is possible, and necessary, in a polarized America.

🎙️ Subscribe to Lean to the Left for more conversations that challenge assumptions and spark progress.

🌐 Podcast.LeanToTheLeft.net

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Welcome to Lean to the Left Podcast

00:09 Meet Carl Able: From Marine to Political Advocate

00:46 Carl's Political Journey: From Republican to Democrat

01:52 Challenges and Realizations in Political Alignment

04:55 Reception in Democratic Circles

07:42 Key Issues: Human Rights and Healthcare

12:49 Military Service and Its Impact on Views

16:45 Controversial Orders and Military Ethics

20:35 Political Fractures and Future Aspirations

25:02 Crayon Box Politics: Mission and Vision

28:50 Carl's Political Ambitions and Future Plans

31:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Filmed over 15 years, Running for the Mountains exposes the deep entanglement between greed, politics, and environmental sacrifice in West Virginia, revealing how extractive industries have shaped public policy at the expense of human health and democratic accountability. Hogan and Eisenberg share firsthand stories of resistance, risk, and resilience—from arrests and threats to building trust within communities often ignored by the national media.

The conversation digs into:

• How corporate power influences environmental and energy policy

• The weaponization of patriotism to justify environmental harm

• The outsized political role of West Virginia figures like Joe Manchin

• The personal and political cost of documenting environmental injustice

This episode is a must-watch for anyone concerned about climate justice, political accountability, and the real human cost of deregulation. Running for the Mountains is currently available on Amazon Prime and Kanopy.

👉 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for in-depth conversations that challenge power, expose injustice, and inspire action.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Lean to the Left Podcast

00:18 Meet the Filmmakers: Babette Hogan and Julie Eisenberg

01:52 The Story Behind 'Running for the Mountains'

02:34 Challenges and Risks in Filmmaking

07:51 Political Landscape and Environmental Impact

09:43 The Role of Patriotism and National Politics

12:19 Joe Manchin's Influence and National Implications

16:23 Environmental Devastation in West Virginia

20:32 Film Distribution and Accessibility

21:45 Personal Reflections and Future Plans

25:26 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

Our guest, Roger Canaff—former New York City special victims prosecutor, author, educator, and survivor—shares his unparalleled insight into how predators are weaponizing AI to manipulate innocent images, evade detection, and create explicit content without consent.

He also exposes the failures of tech companies, the challenges in our legal system, and the critical need for better enforcement and oversight.

We discuss:

✅ How AI-generated imagery is changing the landscape of exploitation

✅ The legal and ethical challenges facing lawmakers and prosecutors

✅ Why tech companies aren’t doing enough

✅ The role of parents, communities, and policy in prevention

✅ Signs of hope—and the growing movement toward education and reform

This is a difficult but essential conversation. By understanding the threat, we can work together to protect vulnerable children, support survivors, and demand accountability from those who shape our digital world.

Guest: Roger Canaff – Legal expert, advocate, and survivor

Learn more about Roger's work at https//rogercanaff.com

👉 Subscribe for more conversations that shine a light on pressing social issues.

👉 Share this episode to raise awareness and spark action.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:03 Roger Canaff's Journey and Motivation

02:24 AI and Sexual Exploitation

06:09 The Role of Social Media and Tech Companies

09:09 Legal and Legislative Efforts

12:12 Parental and Societal Responsibilities

13:33 Trauma Responses and Victim Support

18:45 Justice 3D and Training Initiatives

23:42 Roger Canaff's Books and Contact Information

25:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Artificial intelligence is transforming our world—but not always for the better. In this urgent episode of Lean To the Left, we explore how AI is fueling a disturbing rise in digital sexual exploitation, including the creation and distribution of child sexual abuse materials.

Our guest, Roger Canaff—former New York City special victims prosecutor, author, educator, and survivor—shares his unparalleled insight into how predators are weaponizing AI to manipulate innocent images, evade detection, and create explicit content without consent.

He also exposes the failures of tech companies, the challenges in our legal system, and the critical need for better enforcement and oversight.

We discuss:

✅ How AI-generated imagery is changing the landscape of exploitation

✅ The legal and ethical challenges facing lawmakers and prosecutors

✅ Why tech companies aren’t doing enough

✅ The role of parents, communities, and policy in prevention

✅ Signs of hope—and the growing movement toward education and reform

This is a difficult but essential conversation. By understanding the threat, we can work together to protect vulnerable children, support survivors, and demand accountability from those who shape our digital world.

Guest: Roger Canaff – Legal expert, advocate, and survivor

Learn more about Roger's work at https//rogercanaff.com

👉 Subscribe for more conversations that shine a light on pressing social issues.

👉 Share this episode to raise awareness and spark action.

Artificial intelligence is transforming our world—but not always for the better. In this urgent episode of Lean To the Left, we explore how AI is fueling a disturbing rise in digital sexual exploitation, including the creation and distribution of child sexual abuse materials.

Our guest, Roger Canaff—former New York City special victims prosecutor, author, educator, and survivor—shares his unparalleled insight into how predators are weaponizing AI to manipulate innocent images, evade detection, and create explicit content without consent.

He also exposes the failures of tech companies, the challenges in our legal system, and the critical need for better enforcement and oversight.

We discuss:

✅ How AI-generated imagery is changing the landscape of exploitation

✅ The legal and ethical challenges facing lawmakers and prosecutors

✅ Why tech companies aren’t doing enough

✅ The role of parents, communities, and policy in prevention

✅ Signs of hope—and the growing movement toward education and reform

This is a difficult but essential conversation. By understanding the threat, we can work together to protect vulnerable children, support survivors, and demand accountability from those who shape our digital world.

Guest: Roger Canaff – Legal expert, advocate, and survivor

Learn more about Roger's work at https//rogercanaff.com

👉 Subscribe for more conversations that shine a light on pressing social issues.

👉 Share this episode to raise awareness and spark action.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:03 Roger Canaff's Journey and Motivation

02:24 AI and Sexual Exploitation

06:09 The Role of Social Media and Tech Companies

09:09 Legal and Legislative Efforts

12:12 Parental and Societal Responsibilities

13:33 Trauma Responses and Victim Support

18:45 Justice 3D and Training Initiatives

23:42 Roger Canaff's Books and Contact Information

25:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty sits down with Joshua Harrison, co-founder and chief strategy officer of Leaf Island, to explore how green roofs and nature-based design can radically reshape the way we live in cities.

With more than 80% of Americans living in urban areas, rising heat, pollution, and climate vulnerability are intensifying. But Harrison explains how integrating nature into our built environment — from rooftops to walls — can cool cities, absorb carbon, reduce energy costs, and create healthier spaces for everyone.

🌿 Inside the episode:

• Why green roofs are one of the most effective tools for fighting the urban heat island effect

• How plants use evapotranspiration to naturally cool entire neighborhoods

• The innovative way Leaf Island turns styrofoam waste into lightweight soil

• What cities like Singapore, Paris, and Mexico City can teach the U.S. about urban greening

• The surprising financial incentives for building owners

• How green infrastructure can extend roof life, reduce emissions, and support biodiversity

Harrison's message is simple and powerful: Cities don’t need to choose between modernity and nature — they can (and must) embrace both.

This conversation reveals a future where green roofs are not a luxury, but a standard part of urban resilience and climate adaptation.

👉 Learn more about Leaf Island

https://leafisland.org

👉 Subscribe for more discussions on climate, politics & social justice.

https://youtube.com/@leantotheleft

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Lean to the Left Podcast

00:10 The Environmental Challenge of Urban Heat

00:52 Introducing Joshua Harrison and Leaf Island

01:38 The Concept and Benefits of Green Roofs

03:17 Transforming Urban Spaces with Green Infrastructure

08:23 Challenges and Solutions for Existing Buildings

19:27 Global Examples of Green Infrastructure

21:49 Incentives and Benefits for Building Owners

24:08 Political and Environmental Perspectives

27:59 The Center for the Study of Force Majeure

30:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Lean to the Left, host Bob Gatty sits down with author, strategist, and political thinker Spencer Critchley to explore why liberals often fail to connect emotionally with voters, and how they can turn that around.

Drawing on his new Substack project, The Liberal Backbone, soon to become a published book, and his book Patriots of Two Nations, Spencer discusses:

• The “Liberal Paradox” — how rational thinking blinds progressives to emotional reality

• Why politics operates in the other 99% of human consciousness

• How Trump and other populists use simple emotional cues to persuade

• Why evidence-based arguments fail with many voters

• The global crisis facing liberal democracy

• How liberals can reclaim narrative, purpose, and connection

• The importance of rhetoric, storytelling, and identity in political communication

Spencer also explains why understanding—not dismissing—different perspectives is crucial for bridging America’s political divide.

🔹 About Spencer Critchley

Spencer is the award-winning host of Dastardly Cleverness in the Service of Good, author of Patriots of Two Nations, and a respected political strategist who has worked with Barack Obama’s campaigns and numerous progressive organizations.

Read The Liberal Backbone on Substack:

https://spencercritchley.substack.com

Learn more about his work:

https://dastardlycleverness.com

Read Patriots of Two Nations: https://amzn.to/4nXbLVK

(Free audio book, Kindle and Paperback versions on sale)

🔹 About Lean to the Left

Lean to the Left covers progressive politics, social justice, democracy, and the ongoing fight to hold Donald Trump and MAGA extremism accountable. Hosted by Bob Gatty.

If you believe in democracy, dignity, and truth — this channel is for you.

👉 Subscribe for more:

YouTube.com/@LeantotheLeft

In this inspiring conversation, Steve shares how his own battles with the VA system motivated him to create a nonprofit that’s helped more than 600 veterans secure millions in benefits. He discusses:

• The challenges veterans face navigating complex systems

• Hidden benefits that too many veterans overlook

• How government shutdowns and politics impact military families

• Why voting and advocacy are essential for change

This Veteran’s Day, we honor those who’ve served — and those, like Steve Miller, who continue fighting for them.

👉 Learn more at WellnessForVeterans.org

📞 Contact Steve Miller directly at 412-389-7588 for assistance.

🎧 Listen, share, and subscribe for more interviews that inform, inspire, and empower.

#VeteransDay #LeanToTheLeft #Veterans #Advocacy #WellnessForVeterans #82ndAirborne #SupportOurTroops #VAbenefits #VeteranSupport #Podcast #MilitaryFamilies #ProgressiveMedia

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Current Challenges for Veterans

00:35 Meet Steve Miller: Veteran Advocate

01:20 Steve's Mission to Help Veterans

02:52 Hidden Benefits for Veterans

04:51 Steve's Personal Journey and Advocacy

08:01 Challenges in Veteran Support Systems

13:48 Call to Action and Contact Information

14:26 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Together, they discuss how climate justice is social justice, exploring how environmental degradation disproportionately impacts marginalized communities. From the tragic realities of Cancer Alley to the dismantling of environmental protections under the Trump administration, this conversation reveals how systemic injustices have shaped our environment — and what can be done to change it.

Shilpi discusses her work on “A People’s Climate”, a storytelling initiative giving voice to those fighting for their right to clean air, water, and soil. The discussion also highlights the power of independent media in shaping climate awareness and action.

💡 Topics Covered:

• Environmental racism and climate justice

• How storytelling drives advocacy and change

• Cancer Alley and its devastating impact

• Trump-era rollbacks on environmental protections

• The mission and vision behind Counter Stream Media

🌍 Learn more at counterstream.org and peoplesclimate.org

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Welcome to Lean to the Left Podcast

00:09 Introducing Shilpi Chhotray and Counter Stream Media

01:06 Counter Stream Media's Mission and Projects

04:23 Environmental Justice Explained

06:28 Communities Impacted by Environmental Injustice

08:56 Trump Administration's Environmental Policies

12:37 Grassroots Activism and Media's Role

17:10 Challenges and Solutions in Clean Energy

27:30 Final Thoughts and How to Connect

🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations that inspire change:

YouTube.com/@LeantotheLeft

#ClimateJustice #EnvironmentalJustice #LeanToTheLeftPodcast

From mobilizing young voters to countering Trump’s rhetoric and redefining progressivism for a digital age, Shroff offers sharp insights and bold ideas, inspiring change for America’s political future.

Watch now to discover:

• Why youth engagement is key to revitalizing the left

• How Democrats can balance protest energy with pragmatic solutions

• What’s next for progressive politics in the age of AI and social media

🎧 Available on all podcast platforms & YouTube @LeanToTheLeft

👉 Subscribe today: LeanToTheLeft.net

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

00:48 Nationwide No Kings Rallies

04:36 Trump's Totalitarian Actions and Democratic Response

07:42 Young Voters and Modern Issues

10:31 New York City Mayor's Race and Democratic Strategies

13:53 MAGA Republicans and Democratic Challenges

18:29 Young Men and Trump

25:24 Higher Education and Trump's Influence

29:08 David Hogg and Young Democratic Leadership

32:33 Kaivan Shroff's Future Plans

35:37 Conclusion and Contact Information

But for military families, the shutdown is more than simply a political gambit. It's real. It hurts. And many of our service members and veterans suffer.

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty welcomes Elizabeth Jamison, a tireless advocate for veterans and military families. From her early work as an attorney to her leadership role with Dr. Jill Biden’s Joining Forces Initiative, Elizabeth has dedicated her career to improving lives and policies for those who serve.

In this insightful conversation, she discusses the real-world impact of government shutdowns on military families, challenges within the VA system, and the crucial need for bipartisan action.

💬 “Supporting veterans is not just about politics — it’s about humanity,” Jamison says.

👉 Don’t miss this inspiring pre-Veterans Day episode that reminds us why advocacy matters.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:23 Impact of Government Shutdown on Military Families

05:58 Challenges in the VA System

07:55 Libby's Advocacy and Legal Work

11:28 Military Spouse Licensing and Employment

14:14 Encouraging Military Families to Run for Office

15:13 Work with Dr. Jill Biden and Policy Efforts

17:36 Optimism and Future for Veterans

20:36 Conclusion and Contact Information

Despite Trump's claims about preventing undocumented immigrants from receiving taxpayer-funded healthcare, federal law already prohibits their eligibility for Medicare, Medicaid, or Affordable Care Act coverage.

Gatty reveals the actual human repercussions of the shutdown, including halted Alzheimer's and cancer research funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

The shutdown jeopardizes clinical trials, lab funding, and young scientists' careers. Gatty urges viewers to stand against the shutdown and highlights its detrimental effects on essential medical research. For more details, visit his article at LeanToTheLeft.net.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Trump's Shutdown Claim

00:12 The Reality of Immigrant Healthcare

00:24 Impact on Alzheimer's and Cancer Research

01:10 The Human Cost of the Shutdown

01:34 Call to Action and Conclusion

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty interviews author Barry Robbins, whose satirical books NO!, HELL NO!, and American Monsters offer a creative, humorous, yet deeply critical take on Donald Trump and the state of American politics.

📚 Robbins shares how his inspiration came from wanting to spark emotional reactions rather than intellectual debates—using satire to highlight the outrages of the Trump administration. From lamps and chairs to mythological beasts, his storytelling offers a unique lens on the chaos of recent years.

🌍 Having lived in Finland, Robbins also explains how experiencing social democracy firsthand shifted his perspective from corporate Republican to progressive, shaping his critique of America’s political divisions and the growing threat of authoritarianism.

🎙️ In this conversation, we explore:

• The origins of Robbins’ satirical books NO! and HELL NO!

• His mythological take in American Monsters

• How fear and manipulation drive politics in Trump’s America

• The impact of living abroad on his view of U.S. democracy

• Why America’s deepening divisions pose a dangerous future

If you’re interested in political satire, progressive perspectives, or simply want to understand today’s turbulent political climate in a new way, this episode is for you.

👉 Listen to the full conversation now and explore Barry Robbins’ books on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple Books. Direct Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/4gNhHyL

🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to Lean to the Left for more interviews, commentary, and progressive voices challenging today’s politics.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Lean to the Left Podcast

00:50 Introducing Barry Robbins and His Books

01:29 The Concept Behind Barry's Books

04:11 Political Violence and Barry's Perspective

04:35 Barry's Experience in Finland

05:38 The State of American Democracy

07:40 Trump's Influence and Responsibility

19:12 Barry's Latest Book: American Monsters

20:41 Where to Find Barry's Books

21:21 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Brandon shares his journey from leading FreedomWorks to shaping a new independent movement that seeks to disrupt the two-party duopoly. Topics include:

• Why independents are the “exhausted majority” of American politics

• The Independent Center’s strategy to influence Congress by 2026

• Opportunities for independents on state and national ballots

• The role of AI in transforming campaigns and civic engagement

• How millennials and Gen Z are driving a more policy-focused approach

👉 Don’t miss this conversation about independence, reform, and the future of American democracy.

🔗 Listen to the full podcast and explore more at LeanToTheLeft.net.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

02:01 Challenges and Strategies for Independent Voters

05:40 Gerrymandering and Independent Candidates

11:38 The Role of AI in Politics

13:24 Funding and Supporting Independent Candidates

17:30 Lessons from the Tea Party Movement

23:21 The Exhausted Majority: Upcoming Book

26:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, John DeDakis, veteran journalist, former CNN editor, White House correspondent, novelist, and writing coach, explores the challenges of journalism in today’s fractured media landscape and the implications of Donald Trump's attempts to bully the media to his own ends.

👉 Topics include:

• The crisis of trust in mainstream media

• How Trump and bullying politicians have influenced journalism

• The rise of digital media and the internet’s double-edged sword

• Artificial Intelligence and its limits in creative storytelling

• DeDakis’ novel Enemies Domestic, inspired by today’s political climate

• Writing as a tool for healing grief and trauma

• Helping aspiring authors find their voice

DeDakis shares candid reflections on truth in reporting, holding power accountable, and why integrity and human touch still matter in an age of information overload.

 📚 Learn more about John DeDakis and his books.

 If you care about media integrity, politics, or the power of storytelling, this episode is a must-listen.

👍 Don’t forget to subscribe, hit the like button, and share your thoughts in the comments!

#Media #Politics #JohnDeDakis #LeanToTheLeft #Journalism #truthmatters

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Lean To The Left Podcast

00:31 Introducing John DeDakis: Journalist and Author 01:47 Trump's Impact on America

03:33 The Role of Journalism Today

04:26 Challenges in Modern Media

07:38 Personal Experiences in Journalism

10:37 The Evolution of Journalism

15:23 The Influence of Social Media

16:15 The Impact of AI on Writing

16:54 Experimenting with AI in Creative Writing

18:26 The Ethical and Environmental Concerns of AI

20:03 Discussing 'Enemies Domestic'

22:18 Writing About Personal Grief

25:50 Helping Authors as a Manuscript Editor and Writing Coach

27:02 Current and Future Writing Projects

28:24 Where to Find John's Books

30:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

Ami shares her remarkable story—from childhood struggles and suicide attempts to building a successful career as a scientist and executive, and ultimately transitioning to live authentically. She dives deep into the importance of identity, resilience, and the human experience, and discusses how Trump-era policies devastated the transgender community.

Ami also shares her mission with Purple Paw Clan, an organization dedicated to defending transgender rights and supporting those on their journey toward self-discovery and acceptance.

🎧 Listen to the full conversation to explore:

The personal and societal challenges of gender identity

The impact of anti-transgender legislation

The importance of advocacy and education

The story behind Purple Paw Clan and Team Water

💜 Support the cause: https://purplepawclan.com

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to help amplify voices that need to be heard.

#TransRights #LeanToTheLeftPodcast #PurplePawClan

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome

00:10 Discriminatory Legislation Against Transgender People

00:56 Introducing Amethysta Herrick, PhD

01:56 Amethysta's Early Life and Academic Journey

03:46 Transitioning and Professional Life

05:03 Family Life and Personal Struggles

05:54 Exploring Gender Identity and Transition

07:28 Writing and Advocacy

13:51 Impact of Trump's Policies on Transgender Community

18:22 Conservative Upbringing and Personal Struggles

19:06 Trump's Executive Orders and Gender Affirming Care

19:43 Corporate Responses to Anti-DEI Policies

20:07 First Amendment and Hate Speech

22:10 The Story Behind Purple Paw Clan

27:30 Team Water Initiative

28:47 Conclusion and Contact Information

Gilliard—whose career spanned five administrations from Clinton to Biden—shares stories from his new book, The Longest Four Years of My Life: A View from the Field by a Black Fed. He provides a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the dismantling of programs that supported Black communities, attacks on the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid, and efforts to erase history at the Smithsonian.

📌 Key Topics Covered:

• The Trump administration’s elimination of thousands of federal jobs.

• Canceling Department of Education support programs.

• Weakening of Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act.

• Stripping diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

• Attempts to rewrite history around slavery.

• Stark contrasts between Trump’s policies and Biden’s efforts to restore equity.

Deric also reflects on his earlier career, particularly during the Obama years, and shares how his work connected to Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of equality. His story is both a warning and a call to action for all Americans who care about democracy, justice, and truth.

👉 Don’t miss this insider perspective on the Trump years, race, and policy.

📖 Order The Longest Four Years of My Life on Amazon at https://amzn.to/4nfa7yP.

🎧 Subscribe to the Lean to the Left podcast for more conversations on politics, justice, and social change.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Trump's Promises to Black Americans

01:39 Deric Gillard's Background and Career

04:07 Experiences Under Different Administrations

06:06 Impact of Trump's Policies

11:25 COVID-19 and Trump's Leadership

15:10 Federal Workforce and Safety Nets

19:47 Trolling Trump on Social Media

20:10 Impact of Cutting Education Programs

21:11 Trump's Obsession with the Affordable Care Act

22:14 Obama's Legacy and Racial Backlash

25:15 Reflections on Working for Different Presidents

33:27 The Importance of Telehealth During COVID

34:24 Promoting Justice and Equality

35:31 Discussing the New Book

36:44 Upcoming Book Club Announcement

Carole recounts the shocking moment she was escorted out of a Nancy Mace town hall, simply for being a Democrat, and the broader challenges progressives face in conservative regions. From her service during the Vietnam era to her lifelong dedication to social justice and writing, Carole embodies the indomitable spirit of grassroots activism.

🎙 What you’ll hear in this episode:

The reality of being a Democrat in a Republican stronghold

How Carole turned political exclusion into fuel for activism

The ongoing battle for democracy and representation in the South

Her insights as an Air Force veteran and author of Incense and Peppermints

If you believe in democracy, equal representation, and the power of one voice to make a difference, this episode is for you.

#DixieDems #LeanToTheLeft #SouthernDemocrat #MAGA #GrassrootsActivism #CaroleBellacera

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:14 Meet the Hosts and Guest Introduction

01:26 Carole's Background and Achievements

01:54 Carole's Music Endeavors

03:11 Discussion on Nancy Mace

05:15 Trump and Epstein Controversy

06:20 Impact of Trump on Personal Relationships

08:35 Nancy Mace Town Hall Incident

14:53 Carolel's Activism and Political Views

21:13 Confrontation with a Doctor

21:50 Trump's COVID Treatment and Inequities

22:52 Veterans and Trump's Policies

24:14 Military and Public Opinion

26:41 Corporate America's Response to DEI

28:22 Desserts and Small Talk

32:40 Trump's Health Speculations

35:59 Vietnam War and Combat Nurses

38:04 Conclusion and Farewell

Hear Lean to the Left's Bob Gatty explain why this dangerous politics over science agenda could cost more lives than the pandemic’s first wave. It's the deadly cost of vaccine denial.

Hill is general partner in 2,500 multifamily units worth over $250 million and the host of the Mailbox Money show.

During the show, Hill explores the impact of Trump's tariffs and inflation, and possible investment strategies for those seeking to capitalize on opportunities and avoid the pitfalls resulting from today's economic environment. Hill discusses the importance of passive income, the effects of inflation on everyday expenses, and ways to capitalize on current economic conditions.

The conversation also touches on the growing influence of artificial intelligence and its implications on employment in the future. Bronson shares about the Wealth Forum, a platform for high net worth individuals to discuss investment opportunities and financial growth. Additionally, he provides practical advice for those looking to embark on their investment journeys.

Hill also is the author of a new investment guide, "How to Use Inflation to Your Advantage," which he is generously offering for free to Lean to the Left listeners and viewers. To receive your copy, text the word "Inflation" to 33777. To purchase his book, 'Fire Yourself: Replace Your Working Income in Three Years or Less.' visit https://amzn.to/4fGwquX.

Don't miss this insightful conversation aimed at helping you achieve financial freedom and build a prosperous future.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Lean to Left Podcast

00:20 Meet Bronson Hill: Wealth Generation Expert

01:01 The Importance of Passive Income

02:02 Impact of Tariffs and Inflation

03:45 Opportunities Amidst Economic Challenges

09:43 The Wealth Forum: A Network for High Net Worth Investors

12:42 Bronson Hill's Journey to Financial Freedom

17:50 Investment Strategies and Tax Benefits

20:11 The Future of AI in Investments

25:20 Final Thoughts and Free Resources

Could this be just the beginning? Could gay service members be next?

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, retired Army officer and author Darrell Berry shares his personal experiences with anti-gay attitudes in the military and his insights on the potential impact of these policies on the LGBTQ+ community.

Berry also discusses his gripping novel Early This Morning, a powerful blend of military life, espionage, and the fight for equality — including the creation of an all-gay Army unit sent on a near-suicidal mission. Is it fiction… or could something like this really happen?

WHAT YOU’LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 – Introduction to the Podcast

00:53 – Meet Darrell Berry

01:55 – Life in the Military & Anti-Gay Attitudes

03:51 – The Plot of Early This Morning

07:15 – Comparing Stories with Author Steve Berry

09:14 – Trump’s Impact on LGBTQ+ Rights

11:07 – Darrell’s Writing Journey & Future Projects

12:55 – Publishing and Book Availability

14:51 – Final Thoughts

🎙️ Listen now and join the conversation about fairness, equality, and resilience in America’s armed forces.

📚 Early This Morning by Darrell Berry – [Insert Amazon link]

#TransgenderTroops #MilitaryEquality #LGBTQRights #DarrellBerry #LeanToTheLeftPodcast #TrumpMilitaryBan #GaySoldiers #MilitaryLife #LGBTQMilitary #EarlyThisMorning

Amanda discusses the rise of millennial and Gen Z candidates and their impact on local politics, as well as her new book, 'When We Are in Charge.'

They also touch on the challenges facing the Democratic Party and the need for embracing genuine values, the role of new communication tools in modern politics, and the importance of grassroots leadership.

It is clear that the Democratic Party stands at a crucial juncture. At a time when young individuals increasingly turn toward Republican ideals, despite Donald Trump, there's a pressing need to reinvigorate the Democrats.

Millennials and Gen Zs are tired of bullshit and inauthenticity, and the Democratic Party must recognize that to succeed, Litman says.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Topic

00:29 Meet Amanda Lipman: Founder of Run for Something

01:21 The Mission and Impact of Run for Something

03:05 Challenges and Strategies for Young Democratic Leaders

05:19 The Rise of Zohran Mamdani and Its Impact

08:25 The Future of the Democratic Party and Young Leaders

17:30 Amanda Lipman's Book and Final Thoughts

00:00 Introduction to Dixie Dems

00:44 Meet Catherine Fleming Bruce

01:57 Catherine's Political Journey and Vision

05:26 Grassroots Activism and Campaign Strategy

07:02 Challenges and Opportunities in the South

08:09 Economic and Social Issues

23:34 Healthcare and Community Impact

35:37 Climate Change and Federal Responsibility

41:24 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Nope, it's an interview with international bestselling author Steve Berry about his latest suspense thriller, 'The List.' You'll discover the chilling tale of a company in Georgia that eliminates their most expensive employees to control costs.

They simply knock them off. Why pay them? Just get rid of them, permanently.

Berry also discusses his dedication to historical preservation through his nonprofit, History Matters, and shares insights into his writing process and influences. Don't miss this episode filled with intriguing stories and writing wisdom!

00:00 Introduction to the Lean to Left Podcast

00:29 Meet Steve Berry: Bestselling Author

02:19 The List: A Deadly New Thriller

02:34 The Inspiration Behind The List

03:29 Rewriting The List During COVID

04:11 Autobiographical Elements in The List

04:41 The Dark Premise of The List

07:56 Comparisons to John Grisham's The Firm

12:14 Steve Berry's Writing Process

16:58 Upcoming Projects and Nonprofit Work

18:51 Where to Find Steve Berry's Books

19:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

We’ve refreshed the Lean to the Left website with a brand-new look and improved features, thanks to the team at Podetize. The site is now faster, better organized, and packed with enhancements designed to make your experience even better.

📰 What's New?

• A real-time Latest News ticker for updates and upcoming episodes

• A redesigned Podcast hub with hundreds of interviews and commentaries

• A growing Book Club featuring authors from our show (Still being built)

• Fun episodes from The Bob & Jackie Show for a quick laugh

Explore the new layout, leave your feedback, and don’t forget to subscribe for free to never miss a blog or podcast episode.

👉 Visit: https://leantotheleft.net

🎙️ Podcast: https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

Lean to the Left: Stay Informed. Speak Up. Join the Conversation. Subscribe today. It's free.

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, we explore the pressing issues with America's current political landscape, such as big money's influence and lack of genuine representation.

Our guest, Travis Misurell, founder of the Future is Now Coalition (FINC), discusses his groundbreaking initiative to build a citizen-owned political ecosystem that challenges establishment control and promotes democracy, going beyond left and right in a new digital politics revolution.

Travis shares insights on digital politics, the movement's progress, how people can get involved, and the importance of focusing on up vs. down politics rather than left vs. right.

Tune in to learn how this innovative framework aims to modernize activism and give every citizen a louder voice in the democratic process, countering the big money influence that today controls much of today's political decision-making.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Lean to the Left Podcast

00:37 Meet Travis Misurell and FINC

01:39 Understanding Digital Politics

04:11 Building the Future is Now Coalition

05:13 How to Get Involved

11:19 Challenges and Solutions in Democracy Reform

14:52 The Role of Independent Media

25:19 Travis Misurell's Background and Vision

28:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast. He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump and his billionnaire pals who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

In this video, get a taste of the passion, insight, and no-BS commentary that makes Dixie Dems the leading progressive podcast covering politics in the Carolinas, Georgia, and beyond.

🧠 Expect sharp analysis, humor, and hard-hitting conversations with political leaders, activists, and journalists who are shaping the future of the South.

📌 New episodes every month. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss a beat.

👉 Subscribe to the Lean to the Left Podcast: https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

👉 Visit our blog: https://leantotheleft.net

👉 Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram & Threads @LeantotheLeft1

📧 Contact us: bob@leantotheleft.net.

#DixieDems #ProgressivePolitics #SouthernPolitics #LeanToTheLeft #PoliticalPodcast #BlueSouth #ResistTrump #GeorgiaPolitics #NorthCarolina #SouthCarolina #VoteBlue #Democrats #ProgressiveVoices

In this blistering commentary, Lean to the Left’s Bob Gatty connects the dots—from Colbert's cancellation and Trump's $10 billion lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal, to the GOP's war on public broadcasting.

Is this about saving money—or silencing dissent?

We’re witnessing a full-frontal attack on independent media and the First Amendment. From rural towns that depend on public alerts to late-night satire that speaks truth to power, the danger is real—and it’s coming for your freedom of thought.

🧠 Mind control isn’t just science fiction. It’s the MAGA playbook. Wake up.

👉 Subscribe for more truth-telling political commentary from Lean to the Left.

🎙️ Listen to the podcast at LeanToTheLeft.net

#Colbert #NPR #PBS #TrumpCensorship #MediaFreedom #CBS #LeanToTheLeft #FirstAmendment #DemocracyUnderAttack #BobGatty #TrumpVsMedia

With over 35 years of nursing experience, Emma shares her journey from healthcare professional to entrepreneur, founding her company in 2019 to help older adults age gracefully in place.

In this discussion, Emma addresses common mistakes families make in elder care, the importance of creating a comprehensive care plan, and her unique Rejuvenate program aimed at improving the quality of life for those with chronic diseases.

Additionally, Emma offers insights on holistic approaches to care, necessary policy changes, and practical advice for caregivers. Don't miss this valuable conversation that could make a significant impact on how we care for our aging loved ones.

SPECIAL REQUEST:

Please share this episode with anyone you know who is challenged with caring for a loved one who is suffering from dementia, Parkinson's, or other age-related diseases. There's a great deal of valuable info here.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Alzheimer's and Dementia

00:12 Meet Emma Soy: Founder of Gentle Shepherd Care

00:23 Emma's Journey and Vision for Elder Care

02:17 Challenges in Traditional Home Care

03:14 Introducing the Rejuvenate Program

04:33 Seven Devastating Mistakes in Elder Care

06:29 Importance of Planning for Aging

17:04 Hidden Interventions for Memory Care

20:09 Eliminating Harmful Foods for Memory Care

20:46 Recommended Diets for Older Adults

21:27 Challenges in Changing Dietary Habits

22:36 Creating Healthy Meal Plans

24:00 The Role of Professional Help in Dietary Changes

26:03 Fragmentation in Healthcare Systems

28:01 Responsibility for Personal Health

28:53 Policy Changes Needed in Elder Care

30:42 Impact of Healthcare Policy on Providers

35:23 Contact Information and Services Offered

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast.

He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

Join us on the Lean to the Left Podcast as we engage in a compelling conversation with two dynamic guests, Tony Nagy and Sarah Buckner, also known as Sarafina Supernova, known as the Gnarly Girls.

These talented stand-up comedians, podcasters, dancers, and artists discuss their extensive creative endeavors, including their Gnarly Girls Podcast and touring show, Grape Culture.

In this episode, Tony and Sarah explore themes like intergenerational conversations, the importance of cross-cultural references, and the current state of American politics, which they believe is abysmal.

They also discuss controversial topics like (g)rape culture, systemic issues in the U.S., and conspiracy theories surrounding child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The conversation takes a turn towards the intersection of comedy and tragic realities, where the duo sheds light on how their personal experiences inform their work. Both describe the extent to which they have been sexually assaulted.

If you're interested in feminism, political satire, and the power dynamics that shape our societies, this episode is for you. Tune in to hear these remarkable women share their viewpoints, stories, and humor, all while challenging the status quo. Don't forget to check out their upcoming shows and follow them on their respective platforms for more thought-provoking content.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Lean to the Left Podcast

00:14 Meet the Gnarly Girls: Tony Nagy and Sarah Buckner

00:51 Tony Nagy's Unique Approach to Comedy and Dance

01:34 Sarah Buckner's Artistic Journey and Feminist Themes

02:56 Intergenerational Conversations and Political Views

05:25 Critique of the Democratic Party and Current Politics

11:55 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Education

18:54 Jeffrey Epstein Case and Conspiracy Theories

28:23 Fighting for Peace and the Concept of Grape Culture

30:55 Upcoming Shows and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast.

He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

According to the poll, 79% of Americans say immigration is "a good thing" for the country, up from 64% a year ago, while only about 20% of adults say immigration is a bad thing, down from 32% last year.

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, we explore the heart-wrenching consequences of Trump's harsh deportation policies with guest Robert Thompson. Robert shares the personal story of Miss Doris, a long-term Honduran immigrant and household cleaning lady, who is being forced to leave the country after 26 years.

They discuss the broader implications of these policies on hundreds of thousands of immigrants, the cruelty of the current administration, and the necessity for collective action to hold elected officials accountable.

Tune in for a powerful conversation on immigration, justice, and human compassion.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:21 Personal Impact of Deportation Policies

00:38 Miss Doris' Story

01:18 Historical Context and TPS

02:16 Current Administration's Tactics

04:10 Community Reactions and Broader Implications

06:48 Critique of Trump's Policies

10:26 Call to Action

10:51 Conclusion

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast.

He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

Welcome to the Lean to the Left Podcast! In this episode, guest Phil Woodford talks about the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) and its profound impacts on various industries, jobs and society at large.

Host Bob Gatty shares his personal experiences using AI to enhance his podcast, and discusses the broader ramifications for jobs in fields like writing, graphic design, and social media.

His guest, Phil Woodford, is author of 'AI and the Redundant Human,' and tackles critical questions about the future of work in an AI-dominated world, including the impact of AI on jobs and society.

They discuss viewpoints from tech giants like Elon Musk, Sam Altman, and Bill Gates, and explore the potential for large-scale job redundancy, economic inequality, and the psychological impact on the workforce.

The conversation extends into discussions on AI regulation, potential government reliance on AI, and the global political implications, including reflections on Trump's policies and their consequences and AI in politics and AI regulation.

Tune in to explore the unsettling yet pressing issues around AI, job redundancy, and societal change with expert insights from Phil Woodford.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to AI and Its Impact

00:57 Guest Introduction: Phil Woodford

01:39 AI's Threat to Employment

04:15 Creative and Professional Industries at Risk

07:02 AI's Broader Societal Implications

15:22 Government and AI Regulation

20:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

🎧 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

🌐 Visit our blog → https://leantotheleft.net

🎙️ Listen to more episodes → https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support independent progressive media.

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast.

He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

Welcome to the Lean to the Left Podcast, where we discuss pressing social issues. In this episode, we tackle the critical issue of Donald Trump's environmental policies that threaten our planet's future.

Our guest is Tom Schumann, founder of Global Warming is Real and the Planet Watch Group, who shares his deep insights on the environmental rollbacks under Trump's administration.

Discover how Trump's 'drill, baby, drill' agenda is impacting clean energy initiatives and how public lands are being jeopardized. Tom also speaks about his passion project, the Global Warming is Real website, and his podcast aimed at raising awareness on climate change.

We also delve into the challenges and opportunities of electric vehicles (EVs) and discuss personal actions to combat climate change. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on the importance of safeguarding our environment.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:05 Trump's Environmental Policies

01:04 Introducing Tom Schumann

01:29 Tom's Journey and Projects

03:08 Trump's Impact on Climate Change

06:32 Challenges with Electric Vehicles

16:58 The Triple Bottom Line

18:05 Public Lands and Fossil Fuels

22:03 Supporting Environmental Efforts

22:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

🎧 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

🌐 Visit our blog → https://leantotheleft.net

🎙️ Listen to more episodes → https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support independent progressive media.

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast.

He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, special guest Janessa Goldbeck, CEO of the Vet Voice Foundation discusses howTrump administration policies are harming veterans and how her organization, Vote Vets, is fighting back.

Joined by Arthur Hill of North Carolina and Robert Thompson of Georgia, the conversation explores recent harmful decisions affecting the Department of Veterans Affairs, such as canceling vital contracts and the ability of VA doctors to discriminate based on political and marital status.

They also touch on the broader societal impacts these issues have and the influential power of veteran voices in driving change.

Janessa shares insights into her organization’s mission, advocacy efforts, and the importance of elevating veterans' voices in democracy.

The episode also offers a glimpse into the Vote Vet’s role in recent elections and its support for candidates who will fight for veterans rights and benefits, including the ongoing fight against policies that harm veterans and their families.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement

00:35 Veterans Under the Trump Administration

02:41 Meet Vanessa Goldbeck: Advocate for Veterans

03:24 Vote Vets and Vet Voice Foundation

04:25 Success Stories and Election Impact

07:23 Challenges and Advocacy Efforts

09:31 Veterans' Voting Rights and Legal Battles

17:51 Diversity and Inclusion in the Military

34:12 Public Lands and Environmental Advocacy

39:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

🎧 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

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About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast.

He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast,we address the crucial challenges nurses face in today's for-profit healthcare environment, including staffing shortages, burnout, and the impact of private equity in the healthcare sector -- including how for-profit hospitals harm patients.

Special guest Kathy Allen, founder of GutsyNurses.com and author of the upcoming book, 'Gutsy Nurses Save Lives,' shares her insights on the current state of nursing, the exploitation of nurses and patients for profit, and innovative holistic approaches to maintaining health.

Kathy also discusses her work in traumatic stress, her program Gutsy Nurses, and her experiences in stand-up comedy.

Tune in to hear a profound discussion on the state of nursing and healthcare today and the importance of creating a supportive environment for healthcare workers. After all, patients' lives are at stake.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Lean to the Left Podcast

00:15 Challenges Facing Nurses Today

00:45 Interview with Kathy Allen: Gutsy Nurses

01:17 Current State of Nursing and Healthcare

04:42 Impact of For-Profit Healthcare

09:29 Innovative Approaches in Nursing

09:50 Kathy Allen's Background and Mission

10:47 Gutsy Nurses Program and Classes

15:59 Alternative Healing Methods

23:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

🎧 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

🌐 Visit our blog → https://leantotheleft.net

🎙️ Listen to more episodes → https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support independent progressive media.

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast.

He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

Join us as the Lean to the Left Podcast explores the recent nationwide No Kings Day rallies opposing Donald Trump's actions, including significant protests in Myrtle Beach, SC.

The discussion features John Vincent, a Democrat and retired US Navy Command Master Chief, who aims to unseat MAGA representative Russell Fry as he, in effect, is challenging MAGA in the South.

Vincent shares his experiences at the rally, emphasizing the unified opposition to tyranny and Trump's radical agenda. He highlights the growing public awareness and urgency around these issues.

The conversation shifts to Vincent's campaign platform, stressing support for veterans, reducing national debt, and genuinely representing the people of his district. Vincent confidently outlines his strategy to challenge and defeat Fry, calling for focused protests and strong voter turnout in the 2026 midterm elections.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Context

00:54 Interview with John Vincent

01:00 Rally Experience and Observations

03:20 Core Message to the People

07:27 Military Involvement Concerns

12:00 Political Strategy and Messaging

17:03 Campaign Against Russell Fry

21:02 Analyzing Trump's Approval Ratings

21:41 Understanding Voter Shifts

22:37 Campaign Encouragement and District Analysis

24:44 Campaign Strategy and Social Media

27:49 Veterans' Issues and Political Stance

34:23 Campaign Conclusion and Call to Action

🎧 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

🌐 Visit our blog → https://leantotheleft.net

🎙️ Listen to more episodes → https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support independent progressive media.

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast.

He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

Join us in this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast as we discuss President Trump's contentious relationship with the media and the battle for press freedom.

From banning reporters and cutting funding for public broadcasters to restricting access and filing lawsuits, his actions against the press are unprecedented and have helped lead to an increased lack of media trust by many Americans.

Our guest, Christine Rogers, a seasoned media professional, shares her insights on the impact of these moves on press freedom, media trust, and democracy with journalism under attack by the most powerful political figure in the world.

We also delve into the decline of local journalism, the rise of podcasts, and the challenges journalists face in today's fragmented and economically-driven media landscape. It's sad to say, but threats to journalists are on the rise.

Tune in to understand the critical role of the press and the ongoing threats it faces.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Trump's Assault on Press Freedom

00:54 Interview with Christine Rogers

01:20 Impact of Trump's Media Attacks

04:34 The Decline of Trust in Media

06:14 Challenges in Local Journalism

08:47 Economic Pressures on Media Outlets

12:38 The Role of Podcasts and New Media

14:32 Blurred Lines Between News and Editorial

25:22 Solutions for Journalism's Future

🎧 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

🌐 Visit our blog → https://leantotheleft.net

🎙️ Listen to more episodes → https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support independent progressive media.

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast.

He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

In this episode of Lean to the Left's Dixie Dems, host Bob Gatty of South Carolina is joined by Arthur Hill of North Carolina, Robert Thompson of Georgia, and special guest Dan Schaefer.

Schaefer, who previously ran for Missouri State House and plans a 2026 run, discusses his motivations, key issues like women's rights and labor unions, and the influence of political corruption. What are opportunities for Democrats in red states? This no-holds-barred conversation provides some answers.

The conversation touches on the challenges of running as a Democrat in a predominantly Republican state, the importance of grassroots organization, and key issues like women's rights, labor, political corruption, and political communication. The hosts also discuss the state of the Democratic Party and strategies to counteract Republican messaging and the corruption that is prevalent within the GOP and Trump White House.

The conversation turns to Democratic strategies and the importance of local activism. Don't miss insights from this monthly feature of the Lean to the Left podcast.

CHANNELS:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement

01:04 Meet Dan Schaefer: Background and Political Journey

03:09 Missouri's Political Landscape and Challenges

07:31 The Role of Communication in Politics

15:13 Democratic Party Strategies and Challenges

24:29 Blame Game and Federal Judges

25:24 Tariffs and Technology

28:52 Women's Rights and Personal Stories

32:02 Labor Unions and Workers' Rights

38:07 Political Bribery and Corruption

41:26 State Politics and Upcoming Elections

🎧 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

🌐 Visit our blog → https://leantotheleft.net

🎙️ Listen to more episodes → https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support independent progressive media.

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast.

He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

In this episode of the Lean to Live Podcast, Bob Gatty engages with Dr. Craig Wiener, a seasoned psychologist from Worcester, Massachusetts, to explore Americas political and social divide in the United States as political polarization seems to be worsening nearly every day.

With over 40 years in private practice and a wealth of experience in teaching and clinical direction, Dr. Wiener breaks down the roots of these divisions, drawing parallels between family dynamics and societal conflicts as he explores the psychological roots of politics and the conservative vs. liberal debate.

The discussion delves into themes from Dr. Wiener's book 'Backyard Politics,' examining capitalism, racism, sexism, and child rearing through the lens of political perspectives labeled as 'protectors' and 'promoters' and explores the issue of family dynamics in politics. His book is available here: https://amzn.to/4dKTN5y.

The conversation also tackles the controversial impact of former President Trump on political discourse and the ramifications of his policy decisions on family budgets and social cohesion. He answers, in detail, the question "Can't we all get along?"

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: Political Divisions in America

00:39 Guest Introduction: Dr. Craig B. Wiener

01:26 Understanding the Political and Social Divide

03:37 Key Areas of Heated Political Debate

05:11 Political Perspectives: Protectors vs. Promoters

14:01 The Role of Identity and Group Focus in Politics

15:43 Alternative Facts and Their Impact

23:51 Trump's Policies and Public Perception

30:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

🎧 Subscribe for fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

🌐 Visit our blog → https://leantotheleft.net

🎙️ Listen to more episodes → https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support independent progressive media.

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast.

He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty interviews Connor Treacy, a California political organizer and former nightlife executive, about the low voter turnout among young people in the 2024 presidential election.

Connor suggests that young voters shifted to Trump because of the participation of Elon Musk in his campaign, the use of conservative podcasts, and the popularity of UFC, which Trump strongly supports.

Connor believes Democrats can learn from this and mix cultural events with political influencers to engage young voters and build a sense of community. He aims to merge music, culture, and politics in fun and informative events to mobilize and empower the next generation.

Connor also shares his thoughts about potential Democratic candidates, including California Gov. Gavin Newsom, and offers insights into how the Democratic Party can recapture the youth vote by thinking outside the box.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: The Youth Vote in the 2024 Election

00:35 Guest Introduction: Connor Treacy's Mission

01:23 Challenges for Young Voter Turnout

02:14 Factors Influencing Young Voters

04:17 Cultural Events and Political Engagement

05:20 Building Community Through Events

09:13 Expanding Political Events Beyond California

13:19 Connor Treacy's Political Beliefs

18:24 Future of Democratic Strategies

20:21 Conclusion and Contact Information

🎧 Subscribe for fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

🌐 Visit our blog → https://leantotheleft.net

🎙️ Listen to more episodes → https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support independent progressive media.

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast.

He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

The discussion covers the impact of these schemes on American democracy, the spread of Russian disinformation, and comparisons to authoritarian regimes like Turkey. Global influence peddling was the name of the game.

Chad shares insights from his four-and-a-half-year investigation, revealing connections between Giuliani's clandestine activities and Trump's attempts to overturn the 2020 election. There's a ton of new info that Chad Lewis uncovered and shares with us as he unmasked the corruption that took place.

Tune in to understand the serious implications of these findings on current and future U.S. democratic processes.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

00:09 Trump's Impeachment and Corruption

00:36 Giuliani and Parnas' Influence Schemes

00:57 Impact on American Democracy

01:12 Interview with Chad Lewis Begins

01:27 Global Implications of Trump's Actions

03:33 Putin's Disinformation Campaign

06:42 Media's Role in Disinformation

09:42 Comparisons to Historical Autocracies

10:38 Turkey's Shift to Authoritarianism

14:56 The Persuasion Game Book Insights

25:09 Personal Risks and Repercussions

33:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Welcome to the Lean to the Left Podcast as we explore the pressing issue of suicide among veterans and young people.

Our guest, Douglas Brinker, founder of Beacon4Hope, Suicide Prevention, and author of 'My Shadow From a Suicidal Self to a Purpose with Hope,' shares his incredible story of overcoming his own suicide attempts and turning his life around to become a beacon of hope for others.

Doug discusses the vital work his organization does in suicide prevention through speaking engagements, one-on-one coaching, and group coaching sessions. He emphasizes the importance of having open conversations about mental health and the critical need for better support systems.

Tune in to hear Doug's inspiring journey and learn how you can help combat suicide in your community.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Topic

00:27 Meet Douglas Brinker: A Beacon of Hope

01:09 Douglas Brinker's Personal Journey

02:31 The Mission of Beacon for Hope

03:52 Strategies for Suicide Prevention

07:10 Douglas Brinker's Military Service and Struggles

14:38 The Impact of Bullying and Teenage Suicide

16:13 Toastmasters and Public Speaking

22:26 Challenges Facing Veterans and the VA

28:38 Douglas Brinker's Memoir and Future Plans

33:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

🎧 Subscribe for fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

🌐 Visit our blog → https://leantotheleft.net

🎙️ Listen to more episodes → https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support independent progressive media.

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast.

He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

On the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty welcomes bestselling author Paul Greenberg to discuss his political satire, which imagines George Washington returning to run against a tyrant reminiscent of Donald Trump, who is seeking a third term in office.

Greenberg shares his motivations for writing the novella, the importance of democracy to environmentalism, and his experiences in countries with dictatorships.

The conversation explores slavery, leadership, and the potential threats to U.S. democracy. Greenberg also talks about his unique distribution strategy through independent bookstores, his plans for audio and dramatic adaptations, and the critical importance of elections integrity in combatting authoritarianism.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:21 Meet Paul Greenberg

01:37 The Inspiration Behind the Book

03:05 The Tyrant's Third Term

05:24 Washington vs. The Tyrant

08:38 Challenges and Controversies

15:35 Engaging the Younger Generation

18:29 Distribution Strategy and Future Plans

24:46 Conclusion and Call to Action

🎧 Subscribe for fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

📖 A Third Term by Paul Greenberg → https://amzn.to/44xNAHH

📚 Hijacked Nation by Bob Gatty → https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7

🌐 Visit our blog → https://leantotheleft.net

🎙️ Listen to more episodes → https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support independent progressive media.

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast.

He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

In this episode, mental health activist Aly Vredenburgh, author of "Out Of Focus dives deep into the mental health crisis gripping Generation Z.

From soaring rates of anxiety, depression, and loneliness to the crushing effects of capitalism, climate anxiety, student debt, and housing instability, we explore the systemic forces that have left millions of young Americans in despair.

But Aly doesn’t stop at diagnosis—she offers fresh solutions beyond medication and therapy, including universal mental healthcare, city infrastructure reform, and social entrepreneurship.

🎧 Subscribe for fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

📖 Out Of Focus by Aly Vredenburgh → https://amzn.to/3F4KDUx

📚 Hijacked Nation by Bob Gatty → https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7

🌐 Visit our blog → https://leantotheleft.net

🎙️ Listen to more episodes → https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support independent progressive media.

#GenZMentalHealth #YouthMentalHealthCrisis #AlyVredenburgh #LeanToTheLeft #MentalHealthAwareness #ProgressivePodcast #SocialJustice #OutOfFocus #ClimateAnxiety #UniversalMentalHealthcare #BobGatty

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Gen Z's Mental Health Crisis

00:31 Meet Ali Vredenburgh: Mental Health Activist

01:37 Understanding the Depth of the Crisis

02:57 Beyond Therapy and Medication

03:39 The Loneliness Epidemic

06:56 Cultural Shifts and Individualism

08:46 Capitalism and Mental Health

10:01 Systemic Failures in Mental Health Care

12:16 Rising Suicide Rates Among Youth

14:16 Economic and Environmental Pressures

15:41 Impact of Policy Changes

19:18 Ali's Advocacy and Future Plans

25:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast. He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

But Democrat John Gregory Vincent, a small business owner and retired U.S. Navy Command Master Chief, believes he can knock off the MAGA GOP incumbent, Russell Fry in this slice of red

America, and has launched a vigorous MAGA challenge campaign to prove it.

We welcome John Vincent as our guest In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast's special monthly feature, The Dixie Dems in which he talks about challenging Fry and why he believes he can win. It's a race with national implications, because if he can defeat this committed Trumper in a ruby red district in the South, Democrats will have a great chance of winning control of Congress in 2026.

Hosted by Arthur Hill, Robert Thompson, and Bob Gatty, the discussion covers John's motivations for running, his campaign pillars focusing on the middle class, veterans, national debt, and actually representing his constituents.

They also discuss the challenges of addressing misinformation, the importance of voter engagement, and strategies for effectively messaging to constituents.

Tune in for a compelling conversation about bringing much-needed change to a traditionally Republican district. John Vincent for Congress.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:15 John Gregory Vincent's Motivation to Run

02:07 Challenges in the District

02:57 Campaign Strategy and Town Halls

05:30 Campaign Pillars: Middle Class, Veterans, National Debt, Representation

11:22 Constituent Services and Representation

13:32 Fundraising and Special Interests

14:50 Electoral Strategy and Voter Engagement

19:22 Social Security and Government Efficiency

23:04 Combating Market Delays

23:46 The Importance of Social Security

25:30 Messaging and Communication Strategies

26:46 Veterans and Social Issues

28:42 Campaign Strategies and Challenges

33:46 Military Service and Leadership

37:44 Concluding Remarks and Final Thoughts

Subscribe for smart, fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

📖 Learn more about John Vincent at https://vincent4congress.org

📚 Get Hijacked Nation by Bob Gatty: [https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7]

🌐 Visit our blog: [https://leantotheleft.net]

🎧 Listen to more episodes: [https://podcast.leantotheleft.net]

👇 Join the conversation in the comments.

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast. He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

In this episode of Lean to the Left, host Bob Gatty speaks with Michael Goodwin, Florida Republican and author of the political satire Vice Versa. With Wall Street experience and a sharp pen, Goodwin offers a rare, candid take on Trump’s economic missteps, the Supreme Court’s troubling direction, and the damage being done to Medicaid, Medicare, and biomedical research.

🧠 Expect a sharp, no-BS bipartisan discussion that spans:

* Trump’s “boneheaded” tariffs and market fallout

* RFK Jr.’s controversial health stances

* The Supreme Court’s role in fueling extremism

* The future of Social Security, veterans’ care, and public health

* Why real political dialogue is dying on social media

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:55 RFK Jr.'s Controversial Health Comments

02:24 Trump's Picks and Dictatorial Tendencies

02:59 Faith in the System and Supreme Court Concerns

06:18 Stock Market and Tariffs Discussion

06:46 Trump's Trade Policies and Manufacturing Ideology

12:34 Elon Musk and Federal Government Critique

17:43 Democratic Party's Challenges and Underlying Issues

23:55 Cuts in Biomedical Research and Public Health

25:41 Medicare and Medicaid: The Real Impact

27:51 Social Security and Veterans' Issues

31:38 The Struggle of Serious Content on Social Media

33:42 Potential Political Candidates and Future Elections

37:31 Trump's Foreign Policy and Economic Concerns

40:54 Concluding Thoughts and Reflection

🔔 Subscribe for smart, fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

🎧 Full podcast: [https://podcast.leantotheleft.net]

📖 Read more from Michael Goodwin: [https://amzn.to/4lRblAu]

📚 Get Hijacked Nation by Bob Gatty: [https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7]

🌐 Visit our blog: [https://leantotheleft.net]

🎧 Listen to more episodes: [https://podcast.leantotheleft.net]

📚 Learn more about Michael Goodwin https://amzn.to/4lRblAu

👇 Join the conversation in the comments. Your voice matters.

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast. He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

In this fiery commentary, Bob Gatty breaks down why Americans are fed up with Musk’s ego-driven wrecking ball approach to governance—and why Tesla’s fall from grace is well-deserved. From falling sales and plummeting resale values to grassroots protests and nationwide anger, the electric vehicle icon is getting jolted by reality. It's true Tesla backlash.

Political activist Jennifer Cousins calls Musk a bigger threat to democracy than Trump. And in this episode, we explore what that means, and why so many Americans—even in Trump country—are cheering Tesla’s tumble.

🔥 Protest power is rising. ⚡ The EV movement is shifting. 💥 And we’ve got something to say about it.

Subscribe to Lean to the Left for more unfiltered truth.

CHAPTERS;

00:00 Elon Musk's Controversial Actions Impact Tesla

00:34 Tesla's Financial Decline

01:09 Public Backlash and Protests

01:34 Personal Anecdote and Public Sentiment

02:17 Conclusion and Personal Opinion

In this powerful episode of The Lean to the Left Podcast, hosts Bob Gatty and Mark M. Bello explore with immigration attorney and author Tahmina Watson the devastating effects of Donald Trump’s immigration policies on immigrants, businesses, and American democracy.

Watson, founder of Watson Immigration Law in Seattle and author of Legal Heroes in the Trump Era and The Startup Visa, shares her frontline insights into the legal, economic, and social consequences of Trump’s immigration crackdown. She discusses critical issues including:

✅ The broad legal challenges facing immigrants

✅ The economic impact on startups, businesses, and workers

✅ The travel bans and restrictions on student visas

✅ The constitutional concerns raised by executive orders

✅ The importance of legal and community action to resist harmful policies

If you care about human rights, immigration reform, and preserving democracy, this is a conversation you don't want to miss.

🔔 Subscribe for more expert interviews and progressive political commentary.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:51 Overview of Trump's Immigration Policies

06:37 Legal Challenges and Implications

12:26 Impact on Businesses and Workers

19:30 Travel Bans and Student Visa Issues

23:41 Executive Orders and Constitutional Concerns

27:21 Protests in South Carolina

29:27 The Power of Buzzwords

31:34 Trump's Executive Orders and Immigration

🔗 Connect with Us:

🌐 Visit our blog: [Insert blog link if you want to cross-link]

🎧 Listen to more episodes: [Insert podcast link]

📚 Learn more about Tahmina Watson: https://amzn.to/4hOjyCk

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast. He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

We highlight the caloric intake from donuts and discuss the controversial statement by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., suggesting that frequent donut eaters should cover their own healthcare costs.

Is it fair to single out donut enthusiasts and smokers for healthcare expenses?

Tune in as we explore these questions and the intersection of diet, health, and policy.

00:00 The Love for Donuts

00:17 Donut Consumption Statistics

00:47 Calories and Health Implications

01:10 Controversial Health Policies

01:35 Political and Social Commentary

01:43 Final Thoughts

Passionate about women's rights? This powerful episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast features author Jacqueline Friedland , who joins host Bob Gatty to discuss her gripping new legal thriller, Counting Backwards.

Inspired by real-life events, the novel tackles urgent issues like reproductive rights, female incarceration, immigration law, and the ongoing fight for bodily autonomy.

Friedland shares the true story behind the book, offering a thought-provoking look at how the legal system often fails women—especially those caught at the intersection of poverty, race, and gender. The conversation dives into the historical roots of these injustices and their continuing impact in today's politically charged environment.

Whether you're passionate about women's rights, love legal thrillers, or care about social justice, this episode offers both insight and inspiration.

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more progressive voices and stories that matter.

🎧 Listen now and learn how fiction can challenge the status quo and spark real-world change.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction

01:32 Meet Jacqueline Friedland

04:50 Inspiration behind Counting Backwards

09:10 Women, incarceration & reproductive rights

16:20 Immigration law and legal injustices

23:45 Women in the legal profession

30:00 The role of fiction in activism

35:20 Final thoughts & what’s next for Friedland

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast. He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

In between jobs? Are you a federal employee fired by Trump/Musk or someone who's lost their job outside of government because of Trump's latest actions?

Don't quit, take this opportunity to start a new chapter in your life.

That's the advice of John David Graham, who's started over many times and now has written a highly successful book drawn from his experiences.

At about 8 minutes into this interview, Graham addresses the tragic mass firings by Trump/Musk of federal employees, and says many could learn from his example.

"So I would say grab a beer, grab a friend and cry on one other shoulder, then get up off your ass and put your application in somewhere. Do something, but don't quit," he says. "Call me. I know what it's like."

Graham, the author of "Running as Fast As I Can," now available on Amazon, several years ago created the non-profit Good Samaritan Home, which operates numerous refurbished homes in Ohio that house convicts once they are released from prison. His book is available here: https://amzn.to/3XgnxjC.

"Our program ...the idea is that if you can put somebody in the community and help them with housing, help them with getting a job, then they become tax payers instead of tax burdens," he explains.

To learn more about Graham and his work, please take a listen.

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast. He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

Tired of hearing the Trump/MAGA people constantly attacking "woke" as being harmful to the USA? Check out this interview withj Mark S. Bacon, author of 'The Woke and the Dead.'

The novel, inspired by right-wing and hate group philosophies, examines themes of anti-racism, LGBTQ+ rights, climate change activism, and the broader concept of 'wokeism.'

Bacon discusses his motivations for writing the book, the creation of characters like the bigoted Arizona Governor Rod Gudgel, and the importance of addressing hate groups and prejudices through fiction.

The conversation touches upon the book's plot, including murder, corruption, hate crimes, and corporate espionage, while also reflecting on the current political climate in the United States.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: The Woke Debate

00:22 Meet Mark S. Bacon: Author of 'The Woke and the Dead'

01:37 Understanding 'Woke' and Its Implications

03:13 Creating Characters: The Inspiration Behind Governor Gudgel

04:52 Themes of the Novel: Murder, Hate Groups, and More

06:44 The Power of Fiction: Why Write About These Issues?

09:09 The Writing Process and Political Commentary

12:26 Final Thoughts and Where to Buy the Book

17:20 Conclusion: Wrapping Up the Discussion

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast. He's co-author of "Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. Link: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

If you have received an Alzheimer's disease diagnosis or you care for someone who has, tune into this episode for valuable insights and practical tips on steps you can take.

As the Trump administration devastates federal research programs aimed at finding a cure for Alzheimer's disease, the Lean to the Left podcast explores its complexities and implications for caregivers and patients alike.

Host Bob Gatty interviews Lisa Skinner, co-author of 'Truth, Lies & Alzheimer's: Its Secret Faces,' a guide for families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's and dementia.

Lisa shares her personal journey, which began with her grandmother's early signs of Alzheimer's, leading to her career as a certified dementia practitioner and behavioral specialist.

They discuss the heavy toll on caregivers, the human consequences of dementia, and the importance of understanding and responding to the symptoms in an effective way. Lisa also offers advice on early diagnosis, dealing with challenging behaviors, and taking care of caregivers.

Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical tips on managing Alzheimer's and dementia.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Alzheimer's Crisis

01:07 Meet the Author: Lisa Skinner

01:44 Lisa's Personal Journey with Alzheimer's

05:29 Understanding Dementia Behaviors

08:06 Career Path and Inspiration for the Book

14:02 Differentiating Dementia from Normal Aging

16:04 Mild Cognitive Impairment Explained

21:08 Unconventional Path to Peace of Mind

25:46 The Ineffectiveness of Reality Orientation Therapy

26:30 Joining Their Reality: A New Approach

27:47 Understanding Alzheimer's Risk Factors

30:21 Modifiable Risk Factors and Lifestyle Choices

35:11 Early Signs and Diagnosis of Alzheimer's

37:50 Preparing for an Alzheimer's Diagnosis

42:06 Person-Centered Approach to Dementia Care

46:21 Support for Caregivers and Family Members

54:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

How can a progressive young mayor from the deep South help thousands of students attend college, combat gun violence, and drive economic growth?

Listen to this powerful episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast as hosts Arthur Hill, Robert Thompson, and Bob Gatty sit down with Mayor Randall Woodfin, the youngest mayor in Birmingham, Alabama’s history.

Mayor Woodfin discusses his transformative Birmingham Promise initiative, which provides college scholarships and job training for high school graduates, with strong support from the business community. We also explore critical issues like:

🔹 Gun violence and youth impact

🔹 Economic development and job creation

🔹 Trump-era policies and their local effects

🔹 Bipartisan efforts for real change

🔹 Mayor Woodfin's personal journey and leadership values

💬 Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about bold leadership, education reform, and the future of urban America.

📘 Also, check out Bob Gatty’s new book: Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness – Get it on Amazon. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Dixie Dems Podcast

00:35 Meet Mayor Randall Woodfin

02:09 Concerns About Trump's Policies

07:28 Creating Jobs in Birmingham

10:13 Empowering Young People

14:05 Mayor Woodfin's Journey

20:40 Birmingham Promise Initiative

25:24 Impact of Crime on Youth

26:35 Gun Violence in Birmingham

27:44 Gun Safety and Legislation

29:07 Bipartisan Efforts to Combat Gun Violence

30:40 Political Endorsements and Policy Views

32:56 Fatherhood and Personal Life

33:54 Challenges as Mayor

36:51 Impact of National Policies on Birmingham

38:48 Closing Remarks and Book Promotion

40:38 South Carolina's Missing Funds

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

Tune into this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast as host Bob Gatty welcomes guest Michael Goldstein, a retired criminal appeals lawyer and author of 'Return of the Light' and 'Blessed Disillusionment.'

Goldstein offers a blueprint for a massive nonviolent revolution to address issues like social justice, economic and health security, and sustainability, which he says is urgently needed.

He critiques the two-party system and emphasizes the ineffectiveness of traditional advocacy methods in enacting real change. Goldstein proposes a step-by-step process for building a grassroots movement and confronts the challenges posed by Donald Trump.

The discussion delves into the role of the Democratic Party and the systemic issues that fuel discontent and fascism.

It is Goldstein's view that Democrats’ retaking of the Senate and White House in 2020 moderated the excesses of the Trump Administration. However, that simultaneously restoked the fires that led to Trump’s 2016 electoral victory and the too-close-for-comfort 2020 results by failing to serve the interests of the vast majority of us. We reap what we sew.

Tune in for an insightful conversation on the path forward for progressive politics.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

00:44 Michael Goldstein's Background and Books

01:39 The Message of 'Blessed Disillusionment'

03:37 Critique of the Two-Party System

06:00 Building a Nonviolent Revolutionary Movement

10:08 Challenges and Strategies for Nonviolent Movements

19:03 The Role of Democrats and the Need for Revolution

30:19 Michael Goldstein's Career and Activism

34:41 Conclusion and Contact Information

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

Join investigative journalist Gianna Toboni as she discusses her new book, 'The Volunteer, the Failure of the Death Penalty in America, and One Inmate's Quest to Die with Dignity.'

Through her extensive research and interviews with death row inmates, Toboni exposes the systemic flaws of the death penalty in the United States.

She shares her experiences interviewing inmates like Scott Dozier, who was sentenced to death and then urged the state to get it done, and examines the broader implications of a broken justice system.

The episode also touches upon the racial biases, the ethical concerns surrounding execution methods, and the personal journey of Toboni as she navigates her role as a journalist and a human being.

Don't miss this compelling conversation exploring the complexities and moral dilemmas of capital punishment in America, hosted by Bob Gatty, who shares his experience when he was strapped into the electric chair in the Trenton, NJ State Prison.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 A Journalist's Encounter with the Electric Chair

01:27 Introducing Gianna Toboni: Investigative Journalist

02:27 The Story of Scott Dozier

03:30 The Broken Death Penalty System

04:14 Unique Aspects of Dozier's Case

05:17 Toboni's Investigative Journey

05:45 Mental Health and the Death Penalty

12:52 Cultural and Political Perspectives on the Death Penalty

15:12 The Execution Drug Dilemma

19:11 Reflections on a Career in Investigative Journalism

22:35 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Projects

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

If you are concerned that America is facing a constitutional crisis and heading towards a Donald Trump dictatorship, please check out this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast.

Attorney and legal thriller author Mark M. Bello says our country, indeed, is in a constitutional crisis spurred by Donald Trump's actions, all aimed at solidifying his path to unrestrained power.

In this episode, Bello and host Bob Gatty discuss Trump's invocation of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport nearly 200 immigrants he claims are vicious gang members, his defiance of judicial orders, and the implications for U.S. democracy and the judicial system.

Bello says the recent Supreme Court's decision protecting the president from prosecution for official presidential actions, combined with the Republican-controlled Congress' failure to restrain him, means that America's system of checks and balances through three equal branches of government is in serious jeopardy.

The discussion also touches on public resistance, impeachment challenges, and the role of Elon Musk, whom Trump has put in charge of his plan to essentially dismantle the federal government.

Bello draws upon his wealth of experience to provide legal insights and hints at the parallels in his legal thriller series, with a special mention of his book 'Betrayal of Justice.' Here's a convenient link to his books on Amazon. https://amzn.to/4bSIxTU

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Trump's Constitutional Crisis

01:10 Introducing Mark M. Bellow

02:31 Trump's Actions and Legal Implications

06:59 Supreme Court's Role and Congressional Inaction

21:11 Public Response and Future Outlook

29:19 Mark Bellow's Literary Insights

33:56 Final Thoughts and Farewell

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

If you care about issues like abortion rights, minimum wage increases, and paid family leave, check out this episode of the 'Lean to the Left' podcast, which explores a proven strategy to overcome political odds to enact meaningful change.

Our guest is Kelly Hall, Executive Director of The Fairness Project, a national ballot measure organization that has triumphed in 39 campaigns across 20 states.

The Fairness Project uses citizen-initiated ballot measures to enact vital changes often overlooked or opposed by politicians on issues like abortion rights, minimum wage increases, and paid family leave. It's a highly effective tool for fighting back in the states, despite political opposition by those who have been elected to office.

Hall explains how ballot initiatives empower voters and shares insights into current and upcoming projects, including efforts to expand abortion access even in states with draconian anti-abortion laws and to tackle housing discrimination.

The episode demonstrates how grassroots movements can drive substantial political and social change despite difficult political odds, even in these challenging times.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Lean to the Left Podcast

00:11 Meet Kelly Hall and the Fairness Project

00:44 The Power of Ballot Measures

02:29 Why the Fairness Project's Work is Crucial Today

04:07 Success Stories and Campaigns

08:07 New Initiatives and Leadership Development

09:54 Fighting Housing Discrimination in Nebraska

11:46 Future Plans and Fundraising

13:41 The Team Behind the Fairness Project

15:58 Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

23:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

In this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, we dive deep into the alarming issue of human trafficking with modern slavery expert Matthew Friedman, CEO of Mekong Club.

With over 29 years of experience, Matthew shares his harrowing journey, shedding light on the exploitation of an estimated 50 million people worldwide.

From forced labor in fields and factories to commercial sex trafficking, Matthew reveals the grim realities faced by victims and the economic machinery behind these heinous modern slavery crimes.

Listen as he recounts stories from his tenure at USAID and the United Nations, describes the growing threat both globally and in the United States, and presents actionable steps individuals and businesses can take to help combat this vast modern slavery epidemic.

What will be the impact of Trump' closure of USAID? "People will die," says Friedman.

A real eye-opener into the dark world of human trafficking and modern slavery and the pitiful response to bring it to an end.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Human Trafficking

00:29 Meet Matthew Friedman: Modern Slavery Expert

01:23 Matthew's Journey: From Nepal to Activism

01:47 The Horrors of Human Trafficking

05:06 Global Statistics and the Fight Against Modern Slavery

06:55 Corporate Responsibility in Combating Trafficking

08:03 Human Trafficking in the United States

09:42 Forced Labor and Child Exploitation

13:56 The Role of USAID in Combating Trafficking

17:36 How Businesses Can Help

19:56 The Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime

20:50 New Forms of Human Trafficking: Scam Centers

26:02 Volunteerism and Individual Action

30:32 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Join us for a compelling conversation about the future of American politics and the need for active participation in democracy.

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty of South Carolina welcomes special guest Michael Moore, a Democratic businessman from Charleston, South Carolina, who previously challenged MAGA Rep. Nancy Mace.

Joined by co-hosts Arthur Hill of North Carolina and Robert Thompson of Georgia, they delve into Donald Trump's presidency and its implications, the state of American democracy, and strategies for the Democratic Party.

Moore shares his candid thoughts on Trump's impact, the challenges of running for office, and the importance of broad civic engagement. The discussion covers a variety of pressing issues, from economic anxiety and healthcare reform to the role of billionaires like Elon Musk in politics.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Dixie Dems Podcast

00:44 Introducing Michael Moore

01:52 Michael Moore's Political Background

02:35 Discussion on Trump's Presidency

05:03 Impact on Government Officials

09:11 Economic Anxiety and Political Exploitation

13:43 Call to Action for Democrats

18:57 Financial Cuts and Government Chaos

22:45 Social Security and Government Policies

23:35 Medicaid and Healthcare Issues

25:15 Climate Change and Environmental Concerns

27:03 Political Protests and Public Sentiment

28:16 Democratic Party and Election Strategies

34:34 Republican Scandals and Controversies

About Bob Gatty

This video is presented by Bob Gatty, a former journalist and communications consultant, who is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in going after Trump and his pals who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Join us for a compelling conversation about the impact of the Musk/Trump administration's immigration, tariff, and federal workforce policies on the construction industry, especially housing.

.In a discussion with Brian Turmail, Vice President of Public Affairs at the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), the Lean to the Left podcast explores those issues, which he says have put home construction in crisis..

Turmail highlights a severe labor shortage exacerbated by restrictions on programs like the H2B visa and cancellations under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and DACA. This labor scarcity could lead to higher costs, longer construction times, and stalled community development projects.

The discussion touches on the broader economic consequences, such as increased housing prices, reduced funding for public education due to stagnant real estate growth, and the potential economic harm from tariffs on construction materials.

The AGC advocates for more investment in career technical education and a streamlined, lawful immigration pathway to address these workforce needs. The session concludes with a call to action for listeners to support these initiatives via the website WorkforceDoneRight.org.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Trump's Immigration Policies and the Construction Industry

00:58 Introduction to the Labor Shortage Crisis

01:35 Historical Context and Education Policies

02:56 Visa Programs and Their Limitations

06:50 Impact of Workforce Shortages on Communities

08:17 Potential Solutions and Policy Recommendations

20:37 Economic Consequences of Tariffs

26:49 Call to Action and Conclusion

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

America Has No Kings: President's Day Protest to Preserve Democracy

Across the country, Americans took to the streets this Presidents’ Day to make one thing clear: America has no kings.

Here in Myrtle Beach, SC, hundreds joined the call, standing in solidarity against the dangerous alliance between Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

Their message? Democracy, not dictatorship. Protesters rallied against Project 2025, a radical plan to strip away rights and reshape our government to serve the powerful.

For many, the stakes are personal. A local protester fears what another Trump presidency means for marginalized communities.

Protesters also voiced outrage at Elon Musk, whose growing influence over politics, social media, and even space technology has raised alarms about unchecked power and disinformation.

As chants echoed across the nation, the message was clear: Americans are ready to resist authoritarianism and fight for the future of democracy. The fight isn’t over—it’s just beginning.

f you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

About Bob Gatty

This video is presented by Bob Gatty, a former journalist and communications consultant, who is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in going after Trump and his pals who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Join us on the Lean to the Left podcast as Dr. Gail C. Christopher discusses the fight for justice, the impact of Trump's policies, and the irresistible force of our shared humanity. A must-listen for those passionate about change! #Justice #podcast

In this important episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, host Bob Gatty discusses key social issues, including Donald Trump's policies on healthcare, DEI, and government cuts.

Featuring Dr. Gail C. Christopher, Executive Director of the National Collaborative for Health Equity, the conversation spans topics from the National Day of Racial Healing to the profound influence of Jimmy Carter's values as they discuss the challenge of confronting injustice in health.

Dr. Christopher delves into the legacy of racial hierarchy and the ongoing struggles and strategies for health equity. The episode underscores the importance of unity and collective action to navigate current political challenges.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:38 Guest Introduction: Dr. Gail C. Christopher

01:28 National Day of Racial Healing and Jimmy Carter's Legacy

05:26 Trump's Impact on Healthcare and DEI

06:03 Mobilization for Justice and Democracy

07:55 Economic and Social Impacts of Policy Changes

10:29 Strategies for Coping and Resistance

11:13 National Collaborative for Health Equity

27:14 Racial Healing and Dr. Christopher's Book

33:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

This video is presented by Bob Gatty, a former journalist and communications consultant, who is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in going after Trump and his pals who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Our guest is Spencer Critchley, a writer, political analyst, and author known for his insightful takes on American politics, who explores the question, "What's a Liberal?" If you enjoy this episode, please share it on social media, comment, and subscribe to our channel.

In the episode, Critchley and host Bob Gatty discuss the alienation of Democrats and liberals, who Critchley argues have become overly rationalistic and out of touch with the emotional aspects that drive politics.

Critchley shares his views on the failures of the Democratic Party, their disconnect with everyday voters, and how emotional rhetoric often trumps rational policy debate. They delve into root causes of American political polarization, drawing from Critchley's books 'Patriots of Two Nations' and his upcoming work 'The Liberal Backbone.'

Critchley explains his unique approach to the new book, inviting public commentary on each chapter online and Substack.

This episode explores why Trump’s appeal persists, how Democrats can reconnect with voters, and the broader implications for American democracy.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Election Aftermath

00:31 Guest Introduction: Spencer Critchley

01:19 Democratic Party's Alienation Problem

04:17 Emotional vs Rational Politics

06:22 Marketing and Emotional Appeal in Politics

08:53 Trump's Charismatic Leadership

34:42 Counter-Enlightenment and American History

38:52 The Liberal Backbone: Interactive Writing Process

43:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

This video is presented by Bob Gatty, a former journalist and communications consultant, who is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in going after Trump and his pals who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

We also dive into his work as a boxing trainer and his new podcast 'Beauty in the Break,' which explores resilience and transformation through personal stories and launches March 3.

Discussing issues like Donald Trump’s presidency and its impact on America, Cesar offers insights on bridging political divides, navigating political challenges, the power of community, and the importance of voting with dollars.

Tune in for an enlightening dialogue about embracing clarity, connection, and purpose.

CHAPTERS;

00:00 Introduction to Cesar Cardona

00:28 Cesar's Journey to Los Angeles

01:29 Professional Endeavors and Mindset

03:13 Boxing Trainer Background

04:38 Political Climate and Trump's Impact

11:08 Voting with Our Dollars

23:05 Cesar's Personal Identity and Philosophy

26:09 Beauty in the Break Podcast

31:08 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts about Bridging Political Divides

About Bob Gatty

This video is presented by Bob Gatty, a former journalist and communications consultant, who is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in going after Trump and his pals who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Just as was the case when Donald Trump claimed he won the 2020 election against Joe Biden, federal court judges are rejecting some of his most controversial and potentially dangerous proposals.

In this episode of Lean to the Left, host Bob Gatty discusses the critical role of the courts as they block Trump's harmful policies, including the unfreezing of federal funds, the attempted end of birthright citizenship, and efforts to shut down websites that provide vital health information to the American people.

The episode also covers Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency and the judicial opposition it faced. The courts' actions underscore the importance of an independent judiciary in upholding the rule of law and protecting constitutional rights.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Overview

00:20 Trump's Executive Order on Gender Issues

01:09 Federal Worker Buyout Controversy

01:50 Courtroom Showdown Over Federal Spending

02:22 Battle Over Birthright Citizenship

02:50 Elon Musk's DOGE and Treasury Access

04:13 Judicial Resistance and Broader Implications

04:28 Conclusion and Call to Action

About Bob Gatty

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

As we continue to explore pressing social issues, I encourage everyone to share their stories and experiences. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

The conversation covers the novel's connection to its predecessor 'Secret Identity,' featuring Cuban American heroines like Annie Bustamante, dealing with industry challenges and personal growth.

Segura talks about his passion for comics, the inspiration behind his characters, and the role of underrepresented storytellers. The discussion also touches on how comic books have influenced Segura's life and broader issues of racism and sexism in creative industries.

Additionally, Segura shares his upcoming projects, including a Daredevil crime novel and various comics for major publishers.

Book links:

Secret Identity link: https://amzn.to/416dYWM

Alter Ego link: https://amzn.to/40TrP1x

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Alter Ego by Alex Segura

01:12 Meet the Author: Alex Segura

01:21 The Connection Between Secret Identity and Alter Ego

02:45 Diving into the Comic Book Universe

03:47 Incorporating Comic Book Pages into Novels

04:47 Highlighting Cuban American Heroines

05:58 Racism and Sexism in the Creative World

09:07 Personal Inspirations and Comic Book Influence

11:38 The Golden Age of Comics

12:31 Current Projects and Future Plans

16:14 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

As we continue to explore pressing social issues, I encourage everyone to share their stories and experiences. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Join investigative journalist Charles Piller as he discusses his explosive book 'Doctored,' which uncovers widespread deceit in Alzheimer's research, including falsified images and manipulated data affecting hundreds of studies.

He highlights the role of scientific misconduct and FDA oversight failures, discussing the ramifications for Alzheimer's drug trials and the future of scientific research.

All of this means that Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers who are desperate for help are deceived as they hope beyond hope for a cure, or at least, relief.

Piller explores alternative hypotheses and potential research directions for more effective treatments. This eye-opening discussion on the 'Lean to the Left' podcast is a must-watch for anyone concerned about Alzheimer’s disease and scientific integrity.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 The Alzheimers Crisis: A Growing Tragedy

00:11 Investigative Journalist Charles Piller Exposes Deceit

03:27 The Amyloid Hypothesis and Its Failures

05:14 FDA's Role and Failures in Drug Approval

06:20 Case Study: The Semufilum Scandal

08:54 The Impact of Misconduct on Patients and Research

19:02 Hopeful Signs and Alternative Research Paths

23:52 Necessary Reforms for Federal Agencies and Journals

29:07 Concerns Under the New Administration

31:26 Charles Piller's Investigative Journey and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

As we continue to explore pressing social issues, I encourage everyone to share their stories and experiences. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

On the Lean to the Left podcast, Hollis discusses his long battle for disability rights and the threat that Donald Trump poses for disabled individuals who rely on Medicaid and other government assistance programs that would be shut down under Trump's order to freeze federal spending for grants, loans and other aid programs.

Hollis shares his perspectives on Trump's actions, emphasizing the adverse effects on vulnerable populations, including individuals with disabilities of any Medicaid freeze, and the importance of standing up for disabled Americans.

He also discusses his advocacy work, his achievements despite his condition, and his podcast, '21st Century Disability,' which explores modern perspectives on living with disabilities.

Additionally, Hollis highlights ongoing challenges for people with disabilities in both the U.S. and Canada and stresses the importance of understanding and supporting disability rights. Disabled voices matter, and Peirce's is one of the most effective voices dedicated to empowering the disabled community.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Lean to the Left Podcast

00:06 Trump's Shock and Awe Campaign

01:56 Interview with Hollis Peirce Begins

02:03 Trump's Policies and Their Impact

04:19 Healthcare and Disability Advocacy

13:26 Hollis Peirce's Personal Journey

15:56 Challenges and Achievements

24:22 Power Wheelchair Hockey League

28:24 Final Thoughts and Message

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99.

As we continue to explore pressing social issues, I encourage everyone to share their stories and experiences. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

The discussion revolves around Donald Trump's controversial early actions as president, including executive orders, pardons, and policy changes. The hosts also touch on the implications of these actions, as well as the reactions and strategies of the Democratic Party.

"The gloves must come off," says Hill during the episode. "It's time to fight dirt with dirt."

Additionally, there are updates on political happenings in North Carolina, Georgia, and South Carolina. Tune in for an engaging and fiery conversation about current political dynamics, and please take a minute to subscribe, comment, share this episode with your friends.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Welcome to the Lean to the Left Podcast

00:45 Trump's Early Actions as President

01:31 Executive Orders and Controversial Moves

02:20 Implications of Trump's Policies

06:15 Economic Concerns and Tariffs

11:17 Pardoning the Insurrectionists

14:06 State vs. Federal Government

20:22 Government Efficiency and Tax Cuts

22:46 Kemp's Health Insurance Controversy

23:40 Democrats' Strategy in the Minority

26:00 Salem Media's Conservative Influence

26:53 Trump's Cabinet Picks Under Scrutiny

28:05 Barry Loudermilk's Controversial Actions

32:55 North Carolina's Supreme Court Race

36:16 Georgia's Legislative Session Highlights

39:49 South Carolina's Financial Mismanagement

43:09 Podcast Conclusion and Announcements

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

As we continue to explore pressing social issues, I encourage everyone to share their stories and experiences. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

How Can Democrats Fight Donald Trump? That's the key question addressed by former Democratic presidential candidate Jason Palmer in this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast.

Palmer, a 53-year-old venture capitalist, shares his insights on Trump's return to the White House and his aggressive policy moves, including pulling out of the WHO, the Paris Climate Accord, his mass deportation plans, and his intention to impose heavy tariffs on imported goods.

We also delve into why Kamala Harris lost the election, Democratic strategies for future wins, and Jason's new organization, TOGETHER, aimed at mobilizing young voters.

Additionally, Jason talks about the role of AI in political campaigns, his advice for future presidential candidates, and his ventures in education technology. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the current political landscape and what lies ahead.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:09 Discussing Trump's Return to Power

00:21 Interview with Jason Palmer

01:38 Trump's Early Actions and Their Impact

02:58 Analyzing the Election Results

04:31 Strategies for the Democratic Party

16:51 The Role of AI in Campaigns

23:39 Future Plans and Advice for Aspiring Politicians

29:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link.

As we continue to explore pressing social issues, I encourage everyone to share their stories and experiences. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Help LA Fireman’s Relief: https://www.lafra.org

Honoring Dr. King: Tackling Poverty with Devon Gray

We pay tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King and his vision of a 'Beloved Community' anchored in justice, equality, and compassion.

We are joined by Devin Gray, president of End Poverty in California (EPIC), who shares insights on how Dr. King's work influences current efforts to combat poverty.

Devin discusses the challenges of poverty, outdated societal beliefs, and the impact of rising costs and natural disasters in California. The conversation also delves into political dynamics under President Trump and the importance of building a multiracial coalition for economic justice, echoing Dr. King's vision.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

00:43 Introducing Devin Gray and EPIC

01:33 Dr. King's Influence on Poverty Solutions

03:27 Challenges Under the Trump Administration

06:07 Addressing Misconceptions About Poverty

10:52 California's Rising Poverty Rates

14:10 Impact of Wildfires on Low-Income Communities

20:06 Economic Policies and Their Effects

26:31 Future Directions and Leadership

30:46 Closing Remarks and Reflections

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

As we continue to explore pressing social issues, I encourage everyone to share their stories and experiences. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

The stupidity of Donald Trump’s cabinet nominations was on full display when Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth was grilled during a Senate confirmation hearing Tuesday.

Here’s a guy who says he will be a “change agent” and “warrior” if confirmed, but in the meantime dodged easy questions about his lack of experience, excessive drinking and sexual misconduct, which clearly make him unfit to serve.

HIJACKED NATION - Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. GET YOUR COPY TODAY! https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ

Help LA Fireman’s Relief: https://www.lafra.org

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

As we continue to explore pressing social issues, I encourage everyone to share their stories and experiences. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Help LA Fireman’s Relief: https://www.lafra.org

Breaking Barriers Faced by Women

Don't miss this riveting conversation with Ashley Jordan, author of 'Unhappy Achiever', which delves deep into the multifaceted challenges that Vice President Kamala Harris faced during her presidential campaign, including sexism, race, and societal expectations.

Ashley shares her insights on the inherent biases women encounter in the workplace and politics while discussing her journey as a feminist, attorney, and mother dedicated to breaking barriers faced by women in society today.

The conversation transitions into Ashley's personal narrative of overcoming the 'unhappy achiever' syndrome, advocating for authentic leadership that integrates both masculine and feminine qualities.

Tune in to explore these compelling themes and hear about Ashley's book that aims to inspire women to seek inner fulfillment and break free from societal prescriptions. Book link: https://amzn.to/4gO0Fjq

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Context

00:29 Exploring the Reasons Behind Harris's Loss

00:49 Introducing Ashley Jordan

01:37 Challenges Faced by Women in Leadership

05:02 Personal Anecdotes and Experiences

12:44 The Concept of the Unhappy Achiever

25:05 Advice for Women and Girls

27:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

As we continue to explore pressing social issues, I encourage everyone to share their stories and experiences. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Yes, many pundits claim victory of sorts because Merchan upheld Trump’s conviction on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, making Trump officially a convicted felon. We’re supposed to be satisfied with that?

Not long ago Trump faced four criminal trials and perhaps years behind bars.

Besides the hush money case, there was the federal election interference case. The Georgia election interference case. The Florida classified documents case.

But miraculously Teflon Don’s legal maneuverings and election victory mean none of those cases will stick, and the two federal prosecutions already have been dismissed.

Trump’s spokesperson, Steven Cheung, says Trump’s election was a “mandate” from voters who demanded an end to the “witch hunts” against him.

Really? The American people want a convicted felon as their president? I don’t think so.

Gullible supporters believed Trump when he promised to slash inflation and make their lives better. That’s why they voted for him, along with his macho man image.

But now that Trump is acting like a dictator-in-waiting, wanting to take over Canada, Greenland, and the Panama Canal, many realize that was a bunch of campaign crap. 

Sounds to me like Trump’s been hanging out with Putin far too long and is taking a page out of his playbook.

Don’t know about you, but I’m dreading what’s ahead over the next four years. I’m 82 tomorrow, and I hope I make it to see the end of Donald J. Trump’s political career.

https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7

Life After Prison Release: John Graham's Mission to Change Lives

Should ex-cons be given a second chance at life after prison release? See how John David Graham has dedicated his life to helping convicts once they are released from prison. It's a positive, uplifting story you won't want to miss.

In this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, Dr. Graham shares his inspiring journey from homelessness to becoming a business owner, published author, and founder of Good Samaritan Home, a network of refurbished homes that provide safe living space for just released convicts.

At 53, Graham began helping people rebuild their lives after prison, and by 75, he had published his debut novel, "Running as Fast as I Can." Link: https://amzn.to/3DKjpl5

He discusses his nonprofit's impact on the community, the challenges faced, and the success stories of those who've benefited from his efforts.

Tune in to hear about his philosophy of giving second chances and his take on political and social issues over the decades. Graham's story is one of resilience, dedication, and unwavering belief in a moral universe.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to John David Graham

00:51 Inspiration Behind Good Samaritan Home

02:35 Building Good Samaritan Home

10:50 Challenges and Community Resistance

16:39 Success Stories and Impact

17:53 Writing and Publishing Journey

23:21 Reflections on the 60s and Political Climate

31:37 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

As we continue to explore pressing social issues, I encourage everyone to share their stories and experiences. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

That was the day that Donald Trump zealots attacked the U.S. Capitol, storming through broken windows and doors, and assaulting brave law enforcement officers.

It was a violent attack spawned by Trump, one that even featured a makeshift gallows on the Capitol grounds that MAGATs said was waiting for Vice President Mike Pence who refused Trump’s request to hand the presidency over to him.

Yesterday, exactly four years later, Trump’s election victory was peacefully certified by Vice President Kamala Harris, who Trump defeated on November 5.

So, yesterday, too, was a dark day for America – not because of a violent attempt at insurrection, because she did her job as required by the Constitution – the very document Trump is determined to overturn.

Even now, Trump and his cronies continue to downplay the seriousness of that assault on the Capitol four years ago.

They’re trying to rewrite history and pretend that what happened then was simply a bunch of tourists taking a walk through the Capitol. Never mind the deaths and injuries that resulted from that violent day when law enforcement officers were beaten, dragged, knocked unconscious with some eventually perishing because of what happened.

But to hear them tell it, Jan. 6, 2021 was simply a peaceful demonstration and exercise of free speech that got out of hand. Don’t believe what you saw with your own eyes, we are told.

That cannot stand. Our children and grandchildren who did not witness those awful events must know the truth, because to deny it is to invite such chaos once again.

In just a few days – in fact on Martin Luther King Day – the racist, Donald J. Trump, will be inaugurated as president.

Unless Trump intervenes, the nation’s flags will remain at half-mast in honor of former President Jimmy Carter, who just passed away.

For many Americans, that will be entirely appropriate because of the continued threat that Trump and his backers pose to our country.

Because of this threat we launched our Lean to the Left blog in 2017 and then our podcast, and it’s why we published our book, Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump’s attack on America’s greatness.

These efforts will continue as long as Donald Trump remains a threat to our democracy. Here's how you can help. Buy the book on Amazon or Barnes & Noble. It’s only $11. Sign up for our podcast at leantotheleft.net/podcast, and become a paid subscriber to our Substack channel. Help us continue this fight.

As President Biden wrote yesterday, “We should never forget it is our democracy that makes everything possible — our freedoms, our rights, our liberties, our dreams. And that it falls to every generation of Americans to defend and protect it.”

Thank you for tuning in! I'm passionate about bringing progressive voices to the forefront, and I hope our discussions inspire you to think critically about the issues we face today.

Faced with the struggles of homelessness and a never-ending search for where he fit in the world, he eventually met a remarkable woman who saw potential in him that even the finance company that repossessed his truck couldn't see.

With his wife by his side, Graham decided to focus on a deeper purpose—to help those who had experienced similar struggles. By purchasing and remodeling old homes, John transformed them into welcoming shelters for the homeless, laying the groundwork for the Good Samaritan Home.

Partnering with the Ohio Department of Corrections, the Good Samaritan Home expanded into transitional housing for individuals reentering society after prison. This innovative approach, tailored to provide independent housing rather than mere halfway housing, has been both cost-effective for the state and life-changing for residents. Today, the organization operates 19 houses with the capacity to host up to 100 individuals at any given time.

Building Bridges, Transforming Perceptions

Building the Good Samaritan Home was fraught with challenges. Initial backlash from the local community was fierce, culminating in ordinances, petitions, and even police protection for John and his family. However, through patient perseverance and community engagement, such as clearing neighbors' sidewalks during winter, perceptions began to change. Over time, Good Samaritan Home was recognized as a revitalizing force within neighborhoods, rather than a threat, proving that compassion and understanding can break down barriers.

The true measure of John's mission lies in the stories of those who've benefited from his work. John shares success stories of former residents who found stability, employment, and even love. These stories are testament to the life-changing potential of the Good Samaritan Home, which embraces individuals regardless of their background, offering them a chance to rewrite their life story.

A Legacy of Second Chances

In his novel, "Running as Fast as I Can," Dr. Graham weaves a fictional narrative that echoes the themes of second chances present in his own life. Despite facing over 200 publisher rejections, Graham was determined to share a story that resonates with everyone—a tale that highlights the importance of multiple opportunities for redemption.

As he reflects on societal challenges reminiscent of the 1960s, John remains committed to running his race—supporting one person at a time and advocating for systemic change. His belief in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of a moral universe bending toward justice keeps him grounded and hopeful for the future.

Dr. Graham's extraordinary journey from trial to triumph serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on countless lives. Through the Good Samaritan Home, he provides shelter and opportunity while fostering hope and resilience in communities. His story encourages each of us to pursue our passions diligently, believe in the power of second chances, and strive to be part of a moral universe that prioritizes justice and compassion.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to John David Graham

00:51 Inspiration Behind Good Samaritan Home

02:35 Building Good Samaritan Home

10:50 Challenges and Community Resistance

16:39 Success Stories and Impact

17:53 Writing and Publishing Journey

23:21 Reflections on the 60s and Political Climate

31:37 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

Jimmy Carter: A Lifetime of Service and Peace

Jimmy Carter, despite criticisms from his single term as President, spent the better part of five decades after his time in office dedicating himself to humanitarian efforts and advocacy for world peace. His charitable work, including building homes for the underprivileged through Habitat for Humanity and his vigorous peacemaking efforts, earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.

Unlike many before and after him, Carter shunned lucrative opportunities that other former presidents embraced, choosing instead to live simply and serve selflessly.

In a 2018 interview, Carter revealed, “I don’t see anything wrong with that. I don’t blame other people for doing it. It just never had been my ambition, it just never had been my ambition to be rich.” It’s a statement that encapsulates his humble approach, markedly different from that of Donald Trump.

Carter’s presidency saw significant achievements like the passage of the Panama Canal Treaties and the establishment of the U.S. Departments of Energy and Education, the latter of which now face eradication under Trump’s administration. Trump says he wants to take over the Panama Canal.

[caption id="attachment_8805" align="alignleft" width="182"] Available at https://amzn.to/3BUiaiH[/caption]

It was Jimmy Carter who famously promised never to lie to the American people. Contrast that with Trump, whose lies and misrepresentations have reached into the thousands and continue to this day.

Donald Trump: Wealth and Power

For Donald Trump, the presidency has often seemed a bid to amplify his wealth and influence, with his time in office marred by controversies and legal battles. A federal appeals court recently upheld a sex abuse verdict against him, a striking coincidence in timing with Carter’s noble passing. Trump’s presidency has been characterized by policies that favor big business and corporate interests, contrary to Carter’s dedication to equitable service.

His commercial endeavors extend even into the spiritual, with the sale of expensive religious memorabilia and exclusive access to prayer sessions for the affluent, illustrating a stark contrast to Carter’s modest sense of duty.

The Legacy of Carter versus Trump

The life stories and presidencies of Jimmy Carter and Donald Trump illustrate two divergent paths of American leadership. Carter's simple refusal of “Hail to the Chief” and his grassroots community service highlight a humility often absent in modern politics. Trump’s anticipated return to the presidency, however, brings back into focus a personality that has been accused of exploiting power for personal gain.

As Jimmy Carter is laid to rest beside his lifelong companion, Rosalind, the country mourns the loss of a true public servant and a hero to many. In stark contrast, Donald Trump’s impending second term brings renewed concerns about ethics, governance, and the direction of American values. This juxtaposition poses a profound reflection on what it means to lead with dignity and purpose.

00:00 Carter's Legacy vs. Trump's Verdict

00:19 Carter's Post-Presidency Contributions

00:42 Trump's Return and Carter's Final Rest

01:06 Carter's Humility vs. Trump's Wealth

01:54 Carter's Humanitarian Efforts

02:10 Carter's Achievements and Trump's Plans

02:40 Carter's Faith vs. Trump's Greed

03:07 A Tale of Two Presidents

03:23 Conclusion: A Hero and a Felon

So, join us on the Lean to the Left podcast as we delve into the benefits and complexities of solar solutions for the home, and how you can benefit by saving both money and the planet.

Host Bob Gatty discusses his own solar panel experience with Randy French and learn how solar energy can lead to substantial financial savings, increase your home value, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

This episode covers factors like cost efficiency, export rates, and incentives, while also addressing such potential challenges as HOA regulations and resale of solar-equipped homes.

Whether you're considering solar for financial reasons, environmental concerns, or both, this podcast offers valuable insights to help you make informed decisions.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Lean to the Left Podcast

00:09 Why Invest in Solar Energy?

01:04 Meet Randy French: Solar Energy Expert

01:21 The Rising Cost of Electricity

03:40 Benefits of Going Solar

05:40 Understanding Solar Savings

16:29 Federal and State Incentives for Solar

21:38 Can Solar Panels Be Installed on Any Roof?

23:06 Solar System Durability in Extreme Weather

23:37 Navigating HOA Regulations for Solar Installations

25:19 Selling a Home with a Financed Solar System

29:58 Understanding Net Energy Metering

30:35 The Future of Solar: Federal Mandates and Utility Companies

35:56 The Importance of Backup Power for Solar Systems

39:08 Solar Efficiency in Low-Sunlight Regions

40:21 Final Thoughts on Going Solar

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

As we continue to explore pressing social issues, I encourage everyone to share their stories and experiences. Your voice matters!"

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

An article by The Washington Post sheds light on a group of low-income Trump voters who are now faced with the unexpected consequences of their voting decisions. Among them is a woman who, due to financial constraints, relies on a bicycle to grocery shop because affording car repairs is beyond her reach. Her monthly income is comprised of $1,200 in food stamps and Social Security, supporting both herself and her teenage son.

A Misguided Vote

This Trump voter, a former Democrat, believed that his presidency would bring about positive changes—cheaper groceries and gas, a more favorable economy. However, his focus on cutting federal spending tells a different story. Programs at risk include Medicaid, food stamps, veterans health care, the Affordable Care Act, federal housing assistance, opioid treatment and drug development initiatives, domestic violence programs, Head Start, among others.

The promises of prosperity and improved financial circumstances ring hollow as Trump’s administration prepares to cut critical benefit programs. For those voters who supported him in hopes of change, there’s an unsettling realization: their vote may not have been in their best interest. The stark contrast between the lavish million-dollar fundraisers for Trump’s affluent supporters and his average voter’s struggle to afford basic necessities emphasizes the chasm between promise and reality.

The Harsh Truth of Economic Policies

As Trump celebrates with his wealthy supporters, perhaps enjoying champagne at opulent Mar-a-Lago, many of his voters face harsher choices—like deciding between food or toilet paper on trips to Walmart. The disconnect between expectations and actions raises an important question: Is this outcome truly what they envisioned when they voted?

Election decisions carry profound impacts, with voter expectations sometimes clashing sharply with political realities. For Trump voters now facing the potential loss of vital benefits, it should be a sobering lesson in understanding the true implications of political promises. As the holiday season fades into Trump’s Jan. 20 inauguration and the first days of his presidency, the challenge for many will be contending with the impact of policies that contradict their own needs and interests.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: Low Income Trump Voters’ Dilemma

00:34 Trump’s Spending Cuts: What’s on the Chopping Block?

00:56 The Impact of Trump’s Policies on His Voters

01:04 Conclusion: The Reality of Voting Against Self-Interest

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time. There are now more than 700 episodes available on YouTube and the major audio podcast channels.

Please check out our new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump’s Attack on America’s Greatness, co-written with Lean to the Left star writer CJ Waldron. The book is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24, Digital version $3.99. Here’s a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ

Thanks for your support.

Donald Trump is more than a month away from returning to the White House and he’s already cooking up plans selling out the American people, satisfying his big money donors to the detriment of public safety, the environment, and more.

Meanwhile, If you enjoy this commentary, please like and subscribe! We have many more thought-provoking discussions and guest interviews lined up that you won't want to miss.

Last May, candidate Trump reportedly told oil industry executives that if they donated $1 billion to his campaign, he would get rid of troublesome federal regulations designed to support clean energy and conserve the environment.

What happened? Well, he didn’t get $1 billion, but oil industry interests contributed $75 million to his election effort. Now, over 100 manufacturing and business groups have sent him a letter urging an end to Biden administration regulations on pollution, worker safety, consumer protection and more, claiming the rules are “strangling” the nation’s economy. They want what they paid for.

Trump has promised to rollback climate funding contained in the Infrastructure Reduction Act, once again pull out of the Paris Climate Accord, and boost American oil and natural gas production. He’ wants to ditch federal support for offshore wind projects, claiming that windmills kill birds and spoil the view.

But it’s not just the battle against climate change that will suffer from the grifter-in-chief’s money grubbing actions. Not by a long shot.

Tune in to understand the implications of Trump's financial ventures on his presidency and national interests.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Trump's Pre-Inauguration Plans to Sell Out America

00:22 Oil Industry Influence and Environmental Rollbacks

01:48 Elon Musk and Car Safety Regulations

02:50 Conflicts of Interest in Trump's Administration

03:26 Trump's Business Ventures and Foreign Influence

06:11 Consumer Products and Personal Enrichment

07:17 Conclusion and Call to Action

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

Bob is considering making changes to Lean to the Left in 2025, and is asking for your input. Please take a moment to complete two quick 4-question polls here on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeantotheLeft/community

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Today, with the Holidays upon us, I'm veering away from political discussions to focus on kids, specifically pre-teen kids, and I invite you to check out this interview with life coach Marcus Aurelius Higgs as we discuss meeting the pre-teen challenge. And, if you like it, please consider subscribing and leaving a comment. Hitting the like button would be great, too!

Our guest is Marcus Higgs, a life coach specializing in communication strategies for parents of preteens. The discussion covers the importance of open communication, family relationships, and critical thinking for preteens.

Marcus shares his journey from being a missionary in South Korea to founding Certain Future Press, a company dedicated to character development and supporting holistic growth in families.

He introduces the 'Show Up' framework designed to help parents foster strong identities and communication skills in their children facing the challenges of modern societal pressures, especially those stemming from social media.

Additionally, Marcus emphasizes the value of collective growth, interpersonal development, and the significance of virtues and values in family culture.

Marcus is the author of "Inspire Life Through Words of Well-Being," personal meditations in poetry. Here's a link: https://amzn.to/3P8093q

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Welcome to Lean to the Left Podcast

00:22 Introducing Marcus Higgs: Life Coach for Preteen Parents

01:35 Marcus Higgs' Background and Missionary Work

02:37 The Birth of Certain Future Press

03:31 Communication Strategies for Preteen Parents

05:00 The Show Up Framework: Helping Parents Show Up

06:43 Challenges and Strategies in Parenting Preteens

12:02 Public vs. Private Education Debate

14:48 Understanding the Show Up Framework

15:05 Melting the Wall of Ice: Building a Strong Identity

15:12 Understanding Virtues and Values

15:55 Challenges of Identity in the Digital Age

16:27 The SHOW Framework: Strategies for Parents

18:19 Counseling and Support for Parents

21:37 The Role of Technology and Social Media

27:34 Characteristics of the Ideal Parent

29:29 Inspiring Life Through Words of Wellbeing

30:37 Generational Impact and Legacy

31:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

Bob is considering making changes to Lean to the Left in 2025, and is asking for your input. Please take a moment to complete two quick 4-question polls here on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeantotheLeft/community

Our mission is to challenge the status quo and provide a platform for underrepresented voices. Thank you for being part of this journey with us!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Join us in this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast as we dive into the critical issues surrounding immigration, AI technology, and human rights and migrant abuse with author and attorney Petra Molnar.

We discuss her book, 'The Walls Have Eyes: Surviving Migration in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,' which chronicles her six-year journey examining the impact of AI on migration globally, which she says is fraught with abuse.

Petra sheds light on Trump's mass deportation plan, the broader implications of AI and surveillance at borders, and the role of the profit-driven private sector in the border security industry. She also highlights her work with the Migration and Technology Monitor Project.

This episode is a must-watch for those concerned about human rights, technology, and the future of immigration policies.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Immigration Issues

00:17 Meet Petra Monar: Migration Expert

01:11 The Role of Technology in Migration

02:24 Surveillance and Deportation Concerns

04:14 Global Impact of Surveillance on Migrants

09:55 Tech Companies Profiting from Borders

16:47 Migration and Technology Monitor Project

20:39 Personal Migration Journey and Conclusion

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Bob is considering making changes to Lean to the Left in 2025, and is asking for your input. Please take a moment to complete two quick 4-question polls here on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeantotheLeft/community

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Join us for an engaging conversation covering a breadth of topics shaping the future political landscape.

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, we dive into a discussion on young voters and the 2024 election with Sam Raus, a young, nationally published political analyst and public relations professional.

Sam shares his insights on why the youth vote has shifted more towards Trump compared to 2020, the potential influences of social media platforms like TikTok and X, and the concerns about misinformation and foreign influence.

Sam sheds light on the activities of Young Voices, an organization focused on supporting young talent, and discusses the intricacies of student debt, economic policies, and the role of AI in modern politics.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:41 Young Voices and Sam's Role

02:12 AI and Technology in Politics

09:19 TikTok and National Security Concerns

13:23 Election Influence and Youth Vote

19:12 Student Debt and Economic Challenges

30:10 Race, Sexism, and Political Influence

33:09 Encouraging Youth Political Participation

34:42 Conclusion and Future Plans

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

Bob is considering making changes to Lean to the Left in 2025, and is asking for your input. Please take a moment to complete two quick 4-question polls here on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeantotheLeft/community

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version also available. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ

In this episode, Reagan vs. Trump, we explore the anticipated policies of the Trump administration and their parallels to Ronald Reagan's era.

Our guest, Ed Oswald, a legal and tax expert and author, discusses his book 'From Ronald to Donald: How the Myth of Reagan Became the Cult of Trump.' We delve into Reaganomics, the trickle-down theory, GOP strategies, and the potential economic impacts and the reality of Trump's tax cuts and tariffs.

We also touch on the 2021 Capitol attack and its aftermath.

Join us for an insightful discussion on the evolution of U.S. economic and political policies and the influence of Ronald Reagan on Donald Trump's campaign and key policy positions. Oswald says Trump really is the second MAGA president.

Meanwhile, here is a direct link for Oswald's book: https://amzn.to/49B7OAQ

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: Comparing Trump to Reagan

00:29 Guest Introduction: Ed Oswald

01:08 Initial Thoughts on Trump's Presidency

02:29 The Myth of Reagan and the Cult of Trump

06:42 Reagan's Economic Policies and Their Impact

16:13 Trump's Economic Policies and Their Consequences

21:18 The Role of Tariffs in the Economy

26:22 Stock Market Reactions and Future Speculations

29:07 Conclusion: Reflecting on Reagan and Trump

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Bob is considering significant changes for Lean to the Left in 2025, and is asking for your input. Please take a moment to complete two quick 4-question polls here on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeantotheLeft/community

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Thanks!

In this episode, the host discusses the concerns and expectations surrounding the new Donald Trump administration. 

The guest, Talmadge Boston, a renowned presidential leadership historian and author of 'How the Best Did It,' delves into the timeless lessons of leadership from America's top eight presidents: Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, both Roosevelts, Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Reagan. 

Boston shares his rationale behind his selection of these presidents, influenced by the C-SPAN presidential ranking poll and historical precedents. He also provides insights into how Presidents Obama, Biden, and Trump are being assessed in terms of their historical significance and leadership qualities. 

The conversation wraps up with Boston’s experiences with his book tour and additional resources available on his website. You can obtain Boston's book here: https://amzn.to/3Z2WdFM

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the New Trump Administration

00:38 Guest Introduction: Talmadge Boston

01:28 Overview of 'How the Best Did It'

02:19 Discussion on Presidential Rankings

04:49 Evaluating Obama and Biden

07:39 Trump's First Term and Future Prospects

10:10 Cabinet Choices and Controversies

17:15 Deep Dive into Top Presidents

28:10 Where to Find the Book

30:00 Closing Remarks

About Bob Gatty 

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time. 

Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, is now available for pre-order on Amazon.com and is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version also available. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

On December 14, 2012, Robbie Parker's six-year-old daughter, Emilie, was tragically killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.

In this episode of Lean to the Left podcast, Courage in Tragedy, Robbie shares his deeply emotional journey of coping with the immense grief of losing his daughter, the harassment his family faced from Alex Jones and his InfoWars followers, their subsequent decision to relocate, and the legal battle they waged confronting Alex Jones.

Robbie also discusses his book, 'A Father's Fight: Taking on Alex Jones and Reclaiming the Truth About Sandy Hook,' and his process of healing and preserving his daughter's memory.

The episode ends on a high note with news about The Onion winning the InfoWars platform in a bankruptcy auction, marking a milestone in Robbie's fight for justice.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Sandy Hook Tragedy

00:33 Robbie Parker's Heartbreaking Story

04:16 The Immediate Aftermath and Alex Jones' Conspiracy Theories

04:59 Relocating and Facing Harassment

07:55 Standing Up to Alex Jones

10:08 Writing a Book and Healing

16:06 Reflections on Grief and Family Impact

19:24 The Verdict and Its Implications

23:32 The Onion Wins InfoWars Auction

29:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, is now available for pre-order on Amazon.com and is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital versionalso available. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

In honor of Veterans Day and all of those who have served our country, we are presenting today Paul R. Lawrence, who’s written a new book, Veterans Benefits for You. It’s a terrific resource to help veterans who want help maximizing the veterans benefits that they deserve.

In his book, Paul R. Lawrence, former Under Secretary for Benefits in the Department of Veterans Affairs, provides an up-to-date, comprehensive and accessible guide to all the benefits and services available to veterans of the US armed services and how to make the most of them. We’re proud to present Dr. Lawrence today and hope the information he provides will help veterans take advantage of the benefits and services to which they are entitled.

Please note that this episode was recorded last year for Veterans Day and we are presenting it once again here.

Meanwhile, as we continue to explore pressing social issues, I encourage everyone to share their stories and experiences with us by commenting. Your voice matters!"

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, co-authored with CJ Waldron, is now available for pre-order on Amazon.com and is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version is also available. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ 

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction 00:56 Veterans guide explained

01:10 Paul Lawrence background

01:55 Host's personal experience

04:03 Jumping out of airplanes

07:26 Calling your Congressman

08:43 Helping veterans at work as a civilian

09:28 Insider advice for vets

10:13 Key components of book

11:44 Modernizing the VA

12:04 Need to improve mental health services

12:24 Step by step advice

14:24 Can Congressional intervention really help?

17:00 VA Improvements Needed 1

8:02 Needed Congressional action

19:48 Family benefits