The Lean to the Left Podcast

Hey guys, welcome to the Lean to the Left podcast, where we talk about progressive politics and the important social issues of our time. Today we’re looking at leadership and what some might think is an unlikely resource – the LGBTQ+ community.Our guest is Dr. Joel A. Davis Brown is the Chief Visionary Officer of Pneumos LLC, a management consulting and coaching firm based in San Francisco, USA, and Nairobi, Kenya, specializing in organizational strategy and culture, transformational leadership, global inclusion, executive coaching, conflict resolution, and strategic storytelling. Joel is the author of a new book, “The Soul of Queer Folk, How Understanding the LGBTQ+ Culture Can Transform Your Leadership Practice.”He is also the co-founder of metaPrincipleTM, a global institute designed to train practitioners on how to facilitate equity work anywhere around the world. Joel is an adjunct professor at the IESEG School of Management in Paris & Lille, France, where he teaches Storytelling for Leaders and Story Listening.As a change agent, Joel works strategically to cultivate innovative, creative, and adaptive environments where the cultural genius of everyone can be harnessed and leveraged successfully.On the podcast, Dr. Davis Brown says prejudice and violence against the queer community is on the rise in this country and elsewhere, and he blames right wing politicians and religious zealots for making that situation work.“Anytime there is quote unquote advances in equity and advances in progressive politics, if you will, there's always a backlash, and I think it's become sport, unfortunately, for a number of factions in our country to denigrate queer people because it helps to raise money, helps generate clicks. It helps to get people riled up,” he says.“They know that they don't have anything substantive to talk about. And so, it's a way for them to stay relevant, to stay in power and queer people have always been, for whatever reason, easy scapegoats because we still are a relatively marginalized community.”However, Dr. Davis Brown stresses that there is much that can be learned about leadership from the LGBTQ+ culture, which is the topic of his book, ““The Soul of Queer Folk,” including the ability to “interrogating itself to figure out who we are.”In addition, he says, “recognizing that there's a connection between all of us and that what I do for myself and what I do for others also impacts the world around us, but also recognizing that supporting justice in the world and such, creating a more just society is something that can't just be born out on social media and it just can't be talked about in private circles is something that you actively have to take action to achieve. And so those are some of the key lessons that I think we could learn from the LGBTQ+ community.”Here are some questions we addressed with Dr. Davis Brown: ● Why did you name the book “The Souls of Queer Folk”?● Why should a person who is not LGBTQ+-identified read this book?● What key themes should readers take away from this book?● Who could benefit from this book? Is this only for corporate professionals? Who’s the ideal audience?● What does the LGBTQ+ community possess that makes it an ideal case study for leadership?● What is Cultural Genius™? And how does it apply to leadership and the theme of your book?● What does it mean to be a transformational leader, and how does the LGBTQ+ community exhibit transformational leadership?● Why is this book timely right now?● Don’t other ethnic or social communities exhibit leadership? Why should we focus on the LGBTQ+ community?● How do you define transformational leadership?● How is this book different from traditional books on leadership?● What does it mean to be Queer-minded?● How is the LGBTQ+ community able to survive despite such daunting circumstances and how can they continue to persevere?● It seems like the LGBTQ+ community increasingly is confronted with acts of hate and violence. Has this worsened in recent years, and if so, why?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

It is a remarkable story, and despite obvious political ramifications for lawmakers representing coal states, the U.S. has cut the use of coal for electricity generation from 50% in 2005 to 19.8% in 2021, and it's still falling.In fact, according to our podcast guest, scientist and energy expert Jack Kerfoot, renewables like solar and wind power are expected to overtake coal as the world's top energy source by 2025, just two years from now.In this extremely informative episode, Kerfoot walks us through those developments and explains what they mean for the future, including impact on the world's environment as we deal with climate change.Kerfoot begins the episode with an explanation of the various types of coal, how they are used, and their cost. He says that as we move away from coal to renewables, energy prices will dramatically decrease even as we reduce the greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.Here are the costs associated with various types of energy generation, according to Kerfoot: 1) Onshore Wind – 2.6¢ to 5.0¢ per kWh 2) Onshore Solar PV – 2.8¢ to 4.1¢ per kWh 3) Natural Gas ($3.45 MMBTU) – 4.5¢ to 7.4¢ per kWh 4) Geothermal – 5.6¢ to 9.3¢ per kWh 5) Coal – 6.5¢ to 15.2¢ per kWh 6) Natural Gas Peaker Plants – 15.1¢ to 19.6¢ per kWh 7) Nuclear – 13.1¢ to 20.4¢ per kWh."Clearly, onshore wind and solar are significantly cheaper sources of electricity on a levelized cost basis than coal-fueled power plants. I anticipate that new technologies will allow the cost of electricity from wind and solar to continue to decrease over the next decade," Kerfoot says. Here's the breakdown of energy sources in the U.S.in 2021 compared to 2005: In 2005, utilities used Coal (49.6%), Nuclear (19.3%), Petroleum Gas (19.1%), Hydropower (6.7%), Oil (3.0%), and Renewable Energy (2.3%) (geothermal, solar, wind, and biomass) to generate electricity in America. In 2021, utilities used Petroleum Gas (38.8%), Coal (21.9%), Nuclear (18.9 %), Renewables (13.7%), Hydropower (6.2%), and Oil (0.5%).In 2021, all forms of renewable energy (hydropower, wind, solar, etc.) generated 19.9% of the nation’s electricity.What caused this big shift to renewables?In 2005, there was growing concern across our nation over the impact of global warming, which results in climate change, Kerfoot says, adding that there was also concern over our nation’s energy security. Moreover, the price of crude oil (WTI) was over US $56/Barrel and was forecast to go over $100/Barrel by 2008, which is what happened, he explains.Because of these developments, Congress passed the bipartisan “Energy Policy Act of 2005,” providing tax incentives to encourage domestic energy production including renewable energy like wind and solar, nuclear power, “clean coal”, and oil/gas technology."The legislation did Not have any significant impact on rejuvenating nuclear power development or the coal industry. The legislation Did have significant impact on the development of wind and solar technology and hydraulic fracturing (fracking) technology in the oil/gas industry," Kerfoot says."The tax incentives encouraged entrepreneurs, like the late T. Boone Pickens to develop wind farms in Texas. In 2006, a wind farm boom commenced in many of the Great Plains states, which have strong consistent winds, an abundance of entrepreneurs, innovative power companies, and low population densities," he explains."Current data indicates that renewable energy (including hydropower) will greater than 50% of the nation’s electricity before 2050. The times they are a changing."Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

The Republicans are doing everything they can to attack President Biden because of his age, saying the 81-year-old Biden has lost his capacity to effectively serve as president.Many Democrats share the concern about Biden’s age and not-so-secretly wish there was a younger, qualified option to the president.Stay with us to meet 52-year-old Jason Palmer, a venture capitalist who is challenging Joe Biden for the 2024 Democratic presidential nomination. He’s a super longshot to unseat the 81-year-old president.Previously a General Partner at New Markets Venture Partners and Deputy Director at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Jason firmly believes in what he calls “conscious capitalism” and modernizing our government so the United States can be a true leader in the 21st century.Jason is a leader in the technology and innovation space, having served in executive positions at Microsoft, Kaplan Education, The Gates Foundation, and his impact investor firm, New Markets Venture Partners.A Harvard Business School alumni, Jason believes his 30 years of business and technology leadership qualifies him to run President, saying it is time to “pass the torch to a younger generation.”Here are key questions we discussed with Palmer:Q. What is “conscious capitalism?”Q. Tell us about your background and why you decided to run for president.Q. You must admit this is an incredibly long shot to unseat Biden. How do you see this happening? What’s your path to winning the nomination?Q. But you campaigned extensively in New Hampshire ahead of their primary, but you came in 10th and managed only 142 votes, or just 0.1 percent of those voting. That must have been discouraging. Marianne Williamson received over 5,000 votes, and she’s already dropped out of the race.Q. So you believe you can catch fire with younger voters, especially?Q. But besides the age factor, what do you bring to the table that makes you think you can and should be President?Q. What’s your message to voters who like Biden, believe he’s done a remarkable job despite Republican intransigence, and push worries about his age aside?Q. You’re not a household name, at least not as yet. So how do you plan to overcome this lack of name recognition?Q. Artificial intelligence is rapidly growing in the U.S. with a potential serious impact on the economy, and on employment in many sectors. What are your thoughts about that and the overall importance of technology?Q. Why are you better than Biden in handling these disruptions?Q. What about unions and organized labor? As a business executive, what are your thoughts about companies like Starbucks facing efforts to organize their employees?Q. What would you do about the student loan crisis in this country? Do you believe student loans should be forgiven?Q. Yes, you have significant business and technology experience that could serve you well as president. But what about foreign policy and other key areas where you lack experience?Q. Can you see yourself face-to-face against Putin?Q. To what extent should the U.S. be involved in Ukraine’s battle against Russia?Q. And what about the situation in Israel and the Gaza Strip? What should the U.S. do?Q. What are your thoughts about the immigration crisis and Trump’s ability to stop Congress from passing the reform legislation that Republicans had previously insisted upon?Q. Say you win the nomination. What would be your strategy in going after Trump…he who is only four years younger than Biden and faces more than 90 criminal charges stemming from his effort to overturn the 2020 election, as well as his business dealings.Q. Do you think Nikki Haley has a chance to unseat Trump for the GOP nod?Q. What is your core message to voters? Why should they support you? Q. How long do you plan to stay in this race if results don’t improve?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

In the United States, the racial divisions among us seem to be deepening, fueled at least in part by political opportunists who prey upon fear and emotion.Our Lean to the Left podcast guest is Juliet Hooker, a leading thinker on democracy and race and author of a new book, Black Grief, White Grievance. Her book examines racial politics and argues that both White and Black communities must learn to accept loss – for different reasons and to different ends."Political loss has been unequally distributed in the history of the United States," she says during the interview. "Because of White supremacy, Black people, in general, have had to shoulder a disproportionate number of losses and Whites as a group have been able to avoid loss more because of their position as the dominant group, politically, economically, socially."This uneven distribution of loss has consequences for democracy," she asserts, "because it means that some citizens are making more sacrifices on behalf of the stability of the country than others. And in democracy, everyone is supposed to lose, right? That's the definition of democracy. There's change, there's rotation, no one wins all the time. And so that's one of the overall arguments."The Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol by Donald Trump's MAGA supporters is a perfect example of the "White grievance", says Professor Hooker."I think it is," she says. "Of course, there are a number of different things that were going on that fueled January 6th, but I think We one way to think about or one of the factors is definitely this mobilization of the sense that that certain people aren't supposed to lose right in the US that they are the true Americans, right?"About Professor HookerProfessor Hooker is the Royce Family Professor of Teaching Excellence in Political Science at Brown University, where she teaches courses on racial justice, Black political thought, Latin American political thought, democratic theory, and contemporary political theory. Before coming to Brown, she was a faculty member at the University of Texas at Austin.She also is the author of Race and the Politics of Solidarity, Theorizing Race in the Americas, and editor of Black and Indigenous Resistance in the Americas: From Multiculturalism to Racist Backlash.Here are some questions we explored with Professor Hooker as she discussed Black Grief, White Grievance:Q. First, tell us about your book, its premise, and what prompted you to write it.Q. In the promos for your book, it says that in democracies, citizens must accept loss; we can’t always be on the winning side. But in the United States, the fundamental civic capacity of being able to lose is not distributed equally among the races. Please explain.Q. In your book’s introduction, you write that “Black grief and white grievance are linked because white grievance obscures and supplants Black grief and is often mobilized in response to it. Please explain. Q. How did the Trump administration exacerbate this?Q. Trump, of course, refuses to accept the loss of the 2020 election and the January 6 attack on the Capitol was the result. Is that an example of White grievance?Q. What about Trump’s attacks on immigrants seeking asylum in the U.S?Q. You also write that “while Black grief has historically been mobilized by Black activists in service of Black freedom, we must reckon with the loss this entails.” What do you mean?Q. You write that Black citizens are “expected to protest only in the most civil, nondisruptive ways in order for their losses to be legible. Refusals to contain Black rage are said to be counterproductive because they alienate potential white allies.” Are you saying that violent, disruptive protests are justified?Q. Many of the January 6 protestors have received lengthy prison sentences for their actions. But you write that “armed white antimask protesters at various state capitals and white insurrectionists at the Capitol received kid-glove treatment compared to the heavy-handed, violent, repressive tactics unleashed on racial justice protesters.” Do you believe justice is being served in these January 6 cases?Q. Do you believe Donald Trump will face justice for his actions regarding the election and January 6? Why or why not?Q. What about police shootings of unarmed Black people? What needs to happen to end such actions?Q. You write that “Despite recurring anxiety that Black rage at ongoing loss will fray the bonds of the body politic, it is in fact white refusal to accept legitimate political loss that is the most profoundly antidemocratic force in US politics.” Please elaborate.Q. How can these continuing racial tensions be eased in the U.S.?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

According to the National Institutes of Health, 20 million Americans suffer from substance abuse at some point in their lives. Mary Beth O’Conno was one of those, but since 1994 has been sober from methamphetamine use disorder. She wrote about her journey in an award-winning memoir, “From Junkie to Judge: One Woman’s Triumph Over Trauma and Addiction.” Mary Beth shares her story with us in this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast and answers the question: how does a junkie get clean & become a judge?Within a week of being born, Mary Beth was dropped off at a convent. Eventually, she moved in with her mom, but she -- her mom -- was more focused on her own needs and desires than her young child. At age nine, her stepfather kicked her in the stomach for spilling milk, beat her when she displeased him, and molested her at age twelve. A few months later, she took a sip of Boone’s Farm Strawberry Hill wine, which made her feel euphoric and relaxed. So, she drank as much as possible, added pot, then pills, then acid. At sixteen, she found methamphetamine and experienced joy, but when this high was no longer sufficient, she turned to the needle and shot up. That began 16 years of severe addiction, resulting in destroyed relationships, problems at work, and damage to her physical and emotional health. But, today, Mary Beth O’Connor is a retired federal administrative law judge. She is director, secretary, and founding investor for the She Recovers Foundation, a director for Life-Ring Secular Recovery, and a member of the advisory council for the Hyer Calling Foundation. Her opinion pieces have appeared in The Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times, Philadelphia Inquirer, Recovery Today, and other publications. Six years into her recovery, Mary Beth attended Berkeley Law. She worked at a large firm, then litigated class actions for the federal government leading to her appointment as a federal administrative law judge in 2014, a position from which she retired in 2020.Here are some questions we discussed with Mary Beth as she answers the question: How does a junkie get clean & become a judge?Q. Tell us more about your background and what made you to turn to meth.Q. What happened that prompted you to seek help?Q. The Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step program didn’t work for you. Why not? What did you do?Q. What peer support options are available to those seeking recovery, and why is that important for the recovering addict?Q. How can your book, “From Junkie to Judge,” help those individuals win their battle against addiction?Q. Tell us about the She Recovers Foundation. Why was it started and what does it do?Q. How about LifeRing Secular Recovery?Q. Back when you were struggling as a drug addict, did you ever think you would be in this position today – a published author, counselor, and retired federal judge?Q. How can your story inspire others? Q. I just interviewed a guest who spent five years in prison for a white collar crime. After his experience in prison where most inmates were incarcerated because of illegal drugs, he now believes all such drugs should be legalized; that this would drastically reduce crime and save billions by ending an unwinnable war against illegal drugs. How do you feel about that?Q. Where can people learn more about your work and obtain your book?\Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Would you buy into a plan to reduce violence & crime and make our streets, schools, workplaces, and homes safe again from an ex-con who spent nearly five years in prison for defrauding investors? Well, that’s our guest on the Lean to the Left podcast. Herbert Kay spent nearly five years in prison for defrauding investors, convincing them that risks were fall smaller and rewards far greater than they really were. Today, freed, he continues to pay restitution to his victims.In between, Kay has been a retailer, insurance salesman, stock broker, registered principal, public speaker, bestselling author, venture capitalist, business turn-around expert, TV talk show host, network talking head, consultant, direct marketer and real estate developer.And, now he’s the front man for a 501c3 non-profit that promotes what he calls the 1964 Plan, which he says would make America the safest country in the world if implemented.During the interview, Kay explains how his experience in prison provided the insight that has resulted in his plan, which includes making all drugs legal, restoring the nuclear family and ending no-fault divorce, moving welfare programs from the federal government to the states, providing humanitarian care for the homeless, and advocating for a return to celibacy until marriage.Kay tells a story from prison where he, a Jew, deliberately tried to pick a fight with a White supremacist so the guards would stop it and he would be placed in protective custody. The ploy backfired and the Nazi-loving con became Kay's prison tutor, helping him safely survive his time behind bars.Here are some questions we covered with Kay as he discussed his plan to reduce violence & crime:Q. First, tell us what happened that landed you in prison?Q. You’ve told me that prison was the best experience of your life, why was that?Q. What did you learn in prison that resulted in your 1964 Plan? And where did the name come from?Q. Your website says the 1964 Plan would irradicate mass murder, homelessness, human trafficking, violent crime, and addiction. How would it do that?Q. OK, let’s talk about the restoration of the nuclear family. Are you saying that you want women to stay home, cook and clean and tend to the kids while hubby is the bread winner?Q. Really, you want to ban birth control pills, end no-fault divorce as well as government welfare payments?Q. Ok, you want to legalize drugs – all drugs. What good would that do? Aren’t drugs the reason why there is so much violent crime today?Q. Prison reform is a core component of your plan. What needs to happen?Q. Your plan establishes a national compulsory service requirement for every teenager. How would that work and what would it accomplish?Q. Your plan addresses homelessness. Tell us about that.Q. Back to drugs. What are your thoughts about Trump’s wall as a way to keep illegal drugs out of this country?Q. In the white paper introducing your plan, You say “Our politics have descended into a pit of obsequious gladhanding weasels without a single vertebrae, and they have spent us to the brink of destruction.” What makes you think these “gladhanding weasels” would embrace your plan, parts of which would be hated by those on the right and the left?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

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.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 Issues00:17 Meet Petra Monar: Migration Expert01:11 The Role of Technology in Migration02:24 Surveillance and Deportation Concerns04:14 Global Impact of Surveillance on Migrants09:55 Tech Companies Profiting from Borders16:47 Migration and Technology Monitor Project20:39 Personal Migration Journey and ConclusionAbout 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/communityDISCLAIMER: 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.

TikTok TrumpJoin 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 Introduction00:41 Young Voices and Sam's Role02:12 AI and Technology in Politics09:19 TikTok and National Security Concerns13:23 Election Influence and Youth Vote19:12 Student Debt and Economic Challenges30:10 Race, Sexism, and Political Influence33:09 Encouraging Youth Political Participation34:42 Conclusion and Future PlansAbout 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/communityDISCLAIMER: 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.

Reagan vs. Trump: the Myth, the Cult, the RealityCheck 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/4eK8ghZIn 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/49B7OAQCHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction: Comparing Trump to Reagan00:29 Guest Introduction: Ed Oswald01:08 Initial Thoughts on Trump's Presidency02:29 The Myth of Reagan and the Cult of Trump06:42 Reagan's Economic Policies and Their Impact16:13 Trump's Economic Policies and Their Consequences21:18 The Role of Tariffs in the Economy26:22 Stock Market Reactions and Future Speculations29:07 Conclusion: Reflecting on Reagan and TrumpAbout 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/communityDISCLAIMER: 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!

Ranking the PresidentsIn 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/3Z2WdFMCHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to the New Trump Administration00:38 Guest Introduction: Talmadge Boston01:28 Overview of 'How the Best Did It'02:19 Discussion on Presidential Rankings04:49 Evaluating Obama and Biden07:39 Trump's First Term and Future Prospects10:10 Cabinet Choices and Controversies17:15 Deep Dive into Top Presidents28:10 Where to Find the Book30:00 Closing RemarksAbout 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/4eK8ghZDISCLAIMER: 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.

Courage in Tragedy: Confronting Alex JonesOn 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 Tragedy00:33 Robbie Parker's Heartbreaking Story04:16 The Immediate Aftermath and Alex Jones' Conspiracy Theories04:59 Relocating and Facing Harassment07:55 Standing Up to Alex Jones10:08 Writing a Book and Healing16:06 Reflections on Grief and Family Impact19:24 The Verdict and Its Implications23:32 The Onion Wins InfoWars Auction29:21 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsAbout 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/4eK8ghZDISCLAIMER: 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 GattyA 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 explained01:10 Paul Lawrence background01:55 Host's personal experience04:03 Jumping out of airplanes07:26 Calling your Congressman08:43 Helping veterans at work as a civilian09:28 Insider advice for vets10:13 Key components of book11:44 Modernizing the VA12:04 Need to improve mental health services12:24 Step by step advice14:24 Can Congressional intervention really help?17:00 VA Improvements Needed 18:02 Needed Congressional action19:48 Family benefits20:19 Conclusion

Sabotaged!Donald Trump is wasting no time sabotaging the U.S. government that he’s supposed to lead.With the nominations of Robert F. Kenney Jr. as secretary of Health, and Matt Gaetz as attorney general, he’s shown absolute disdain for the American people byunqualified loyalists in the most sensitive and important positions.Kennedy, who once had a brain worm and battled drug addiction, has spent years fighting against vaccines. He backs a national abortion ban and has never seen a conspiracy theory he didn’t like. He has zero health expertise, and was picked because of his last name and his endorsement of Trump. Gaetz is just plain slimy. He was investigated by the bipartisan House Ethics Committee for allegedly engaging in sexual misconduct with a 17-year-old girl and violating sex trafficking laws, while accepting improper gifts. He resigned from Congress immediately after being picked by Trump to be his attorney general. One crook hired to protect another. That’s all that is.Trump wants to consolidate power and that’s what he’s doing with these low-life Cabinet selections. All designed to help consolidate his position as dictator.We’re in for a rough ride, folks.Connecting You to Issues that Matter 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 coming soon. 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.

Unveiling the Mind of a Master Storyteller: An Interview with David BaldacciJoin us on the Lean to the Left podcast as we welcome David Baldacci, renowned author of over 40 bestselling suspense novels. In this episode, we delve into Baldacci's latest book 'To Die For' featuring the character Travis Devine. Baldacci discusses his process of character development, the rigorous research that goes into his thrillers, and his commitment to literacy through the Wish You Well Foundation.What's it like creating those characters that are so important, especially the bad guys (Baldacci's favorites)? Do they stay with the author over time? Where do his story ideas come from? What's in his mind? How does he work? What's the process followed by this master storyteller to create all those novels?From his journey as a trial lawyer to becoming a celebrated novelist, Baldacci shares insights into the craft of storytelling and what keeps him motivated to continue writing captivating stories. A must-watch for fans and aspiring writers!CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to David Baldacci01:26 Discussing 'Absolute Power'02:01 Exploring 'To Die For'04:28 The Writing Process07:42 Research and Realism17:09 Character Development18:59 The Wish You Well Foundation23:55 Advice for Aspiring Authors26:17 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsLinks for Baldacci books discussed in the interview:To Die For: https://amzn.to/4etVOlvAbsolute Power: https://amzn.to/3Z9z7P3Memory Man: https://amzn.to/4exd9KkThe Edge: https://amzn.to/48S4EbmThe 6:20 Man: https://amzn.to/4hOK1B3_____________________________________________________________________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/4eK8ghZDISCLAIMER: 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.

A GOP Insider's Election Analysis 2024In this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, host Bob Gatty interviews Jamie Miller, former Executive Director of the Florida Republican Party and veteran of the 2000 George Bush campaign, for an analysis of Donald Trump's 2024 defeat of Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election. They discuss a variety of topics including demographic voting patterns, Miller's perceived overreach of the Democratic Party on key issues, the impact of immigration policies, and questions surrounding electric vehicles and the economy. For his part in this election analysis 2024, Host Bob Gatty points out the overreach of the Republican Party, including Donald Trump's threat to go after his perceived enemies, including many in the Democratic Party.They also touch on controversial subjects such as the aftermath of the January 6th Capitol attack, immigration policies including Trump's mass deportation plans and the situation of the Dreamers, and the debate over whether the 2020 election was legitimately won by Biden. Miller provides insights from his right-of-center perspective, while Bob offers counterpoints from the left, aiming to foster a balanced and reasonable discussion in this fascinating election analysis.Miller's bottom line was that Democrats lost the support of many voters by focusing on such issues as abortion, protecting LGBTQ+ rights, and allowing transgender individuals to compete in school sports, when their primary concern was the economy and inflation.Remember, I believe in the power of dialogue to drive change. What topics would you like us to address? Your input is invaluable!CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:32 Election Analysis: Why Trump Beat Kamala Harris02:26 Democrats' Strategy and Media's Role05:34 Impact of Abortion Issue on Election07:30 Young Voters and Economic Concerns13:43 Immigration and Latino Voters16:27 Dreamers and Immigration Policy26:13 Election Integrity and 2020 Election32:50 January 6th Attack and Pardons35:39 Economic Policies and Tariffs39:32 Closing Remarks and Final ThoughtsAbout 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/4eK8ghZDISCLAIMER: 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 Price of BaconTrump's supporters, who unfairly blamed Joe Biden for the increase in grocery prices and other products following the pandemic, put the price of bacon and other foods ahead of potentially losing many important freedoms under the presidency of Donald Trump.Aside from the trepidation that many feel because of Trump's election, perhaps the saddest aspect is that more than 71 million Americans fell for his message of hate, his lies, his exaggerations, and his pie in the sky promises. They forget that Trump thoroughly mismanaged the pandemic, resulting in millions of deaths. And apparently they don't care that he harbors hopes of installing himself as some sort of dictator. Harris did her best, but her messaging fell flat with many women, particularly whom she counted on to lead her to victory. Trump stacked the Supreme court to get rid of abortions, but the price of bacon apparently trumped concerns about losing reproductive freedom. If Trump follows through on his pledge to impose massive tariffs on imported goods, do they not realize that the price of goods will skyrocket? Perhaps they like Trump's plan to give another huge tax cut to millionaires and big business at their own expense. Trump promised to deport millions living in the country illegally, and from his continued rhetoric, it sounds like he's entirely serious, regardless of the cost as his braintrust is already making implementation plans. What would be the impact on the economy if he did that? Who will pick the produce or build our houses, do our landscaping, yes, even pick our hardshell crabs?Trump said he would protect American women whether they like it or not,. That's from the man convicted of sex crimes. He's threatened his political opponents as "the enemy within," and said he military should take care of them.Apparently 71. 5 million voters who chose Trump paid no attention to that. Or they actually liked the message, such as his deportation plans. Enough. We must continue to resist this fanatic who, indeed, has hijacked our nation simply to satisfy his on insatiable greed. I intend to continue to do that through this podcast, my LeantotheLeft.net blog, and my books. A new one has just been released, Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump's attack on America's greatness. You can find it here: https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7, and another one, a political thriller, is now in the works. "The government you elect is the government you deserve," wrote Thomas Jefferson. Those 71. 5 million Trump voters will discover over these next years that those words are absolutely true. After all, what's more important, the price of bacon or your own freedom?

The Dixie Dems Trump Election ResponseIn this special post-election episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, the Dixie Dems offer a response to Donald Trump's election nationally and in South Carolina, Georgia, and North Carolina. Host Bob Gatty discusses the disappointing results and the continuing battle for democracy with Arthur Hill, vice chair of the Brunswick County North Carolina Democratic Party, and Robert Thompson, a passionate podcaster and political commentator from Georgia. They explore key pressing issues, such as the public's response to Trump, the challenges faced by Democratic candidates, especially black female candidates, the potential impacts of Project 2025, and the looming threat of an autocratic government. The trio dives deep into Trump's plans for weaponizing the Department of Justice, the role of immigrants in the workforce, and the uncertain future of American democracy. The episode concludes with a reflection on the broader societal implications and and information about the host's updated book, 'Hijacked Nation,' co-authored with CJ Waldron.Remember, as we continue to explore pressing social issues, please share your stories, views and experiences. Your voice matters! We can all get through this together.CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Post-Election Reflections00:57 Emotional Reactions and Personal Stories01:29 Election Analysis and Voter Behavior02:55 Concerns About Trump's Return07:10 Supreme Court and Legislative Implications07:56 Political Strategy and Opposition13:04 North Carolina Election Results22:41 Immigration and Labor Issues27:34 Closing Thoughts and Book PromotionAbout 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 coming soon. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZDISCLAIMER: 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.

Election Countdown: Insights from the Dixie DemsJoin Bob Gatty and guests Arthur Hill and Robert Thompson in this special election countdown episode of the Dixie Dems on the Lean to the Left Podcast. If you enjoy this episode, please like and subscribe! We have many more thought-provoking discussions lined up that you won't want to miss.The discussion in this episode provides insights into key battleground states like North Carolina and Georgia, touching on local electoral dynamics, early voting experiences, and the potential impacts of increased voter turnout. The episode also delves into issues like sign-stealing, the influence of young voters, and the broader implications of local electoral mechanisms. Additionally, Bob shares thoughts on his newly released book, 'Hijacked Nation,' covering the political landscape from the January 6 insurrection to the current day. The book is available at Amazon at https://amzn.to/4ePrTF7 and Barnes & Noble at https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hija....Don't miss this insightful conversation as the Dixie Dems break down the upcoming election and its possible outcomes, with optimism about Harris' chances in Georgia and North Carolina, two key battleground states that could be the key to victory.CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Halloween Special00:59 Election Focus: North Carolina and Georgia03:30 Early Voting Experiences11:27 Georgia's Election Shenanigans14:04 Final Thoughts and Predictions30:25 Local Elections and Issues33:49 Promoting the New Book36:27 Closing Remarks and Call to VoteAbout Bob GattyA 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 coming soon. 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

I want to let you know that our new book, Hijacked Nation, Donald Trump’s attack on America’s greatness, reveals details of the harm posed by the Republicans’ Project 2025, a manifesto for a potential Trump administration.You can learn more at leantotheleft.net/books, so check it out.Meanwhile, here’s a great little video about Project 2025 that I thought I’d pass along.