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.

In this powerful episode of Lean to the Left, host Bob Gatty sits down with Kaivan Shroff, political commentator, attorney, and Triple Ivy League alum, to discuss the challenges — and opportunities — facing the Democratic Party.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.netCHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview00:48 Nationwide No Kings Rallies04:36 Trump's Totalitarian Actions and Democratic Response07:42 Young Voters and Modern Issues10:31 New York City Mayor's Race and Democratic Strategies13:53 MAGA Republicans and Democratic Challenges18:29 Young Men and Trump25:24 Higher Education and Trump's Influence29:08 David Hogg and Young Democratic Leadership32:33 Kaivan Shroff's Future Plans35:37 Conclusion and Contact Information

How does Trump's government shutdown hurt our veterans? Will they get paid? When? How will they pay their rent and feed their families with no money coming in? Callously, they refuse to budge as Democrats continue to fight to protect the healthcare of those who rely on Medicaid and Obamacare. 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 Introduction01:23 Impact of Government Shutdown on Military Families05:58 Challenges in the VA System07:55 Libby's Advocacy and Legal Work11:28 Military Spouse Licensing and Employment14:14 Encouraging Military Families to Run for Office15:13 Work with Dr. Jill Biden and Policy Efforts17:36 Optimism and Future for Veterans20:36 Conclusion and Contact Information

Bob Gatty from Lean To The Left discusses the true consequences of the Donald Trump government shutdown that derails the fight against cancer and Alzheimer's disease. 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 Claim00:12 The Reality of Immigrant Healthcare00:24 Impact on Alzheimer's and Cancer Research01:10 The Human Cost of the Shutdown01:34 Call to Action and Conclusion

What happens when inanimate objects, like the Resolute Desk, and mythological monsters tell the story of Trump’s America? 🤯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 futureIf 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 Podcast00:50 Introducing Barry Robbins and His Books01:29 The Concept Behind Barry's Books04:11 Political Violence and Barry's Perspective04:35 Barry's Experience in Finland05:38 The State of American Democracy07:40 Trump's Influence and Responsibility19:12 Barry's Latest Book: American Monsters20:41 Where to Find Barry's Books21:21 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Nearly 40% of Americans now identify as independents, reflecting deep frustration with partisan politics. In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, Bob Gatty speaks with Adam Brandon, senior advisor at the Independent Center and co-author of The Exhausted Majority.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 Guest02:01 Challenges and Strategies for Independent Voters05:40 Gerrymandering and Independent Candidates11:38 The Role of AI in Politics13:24 Funding and Supporting Independent Candidates17:30 Lessons from the Tea Party Movement23:21 The Exhausted Majority: Upcoming Book26:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

What are the implications for our divided country when a bullying president shakes down the news media to get his way?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 voiceDeDakis 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 #truthmattersCHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to the Lean To The Left Podcast00:31 Introducing John DeDakis: Journalist and Author 01:47 Trump's Impact on America03:33 The Role of Journalism Today04:26 Challenges in Modern Media07:38 Personal Experiences in Journalism10:37 The Evolution of Journalism15:23 The Influence of Social Media16:15 The Impact of AI on Writing16:54 Experimenting with AI in Creative Writing18:26 The Ethical and Environmental Concerns of AI20:03 Discussing 'Enemies Domestic'22:18 Writing About Personal Grief25:50 Helping Authors as a Manuscript Editor and Writing Coach27:02 Current and Future Writing Projects28:24 Where to Find John's Books30:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

In Defending Transgender Identity on the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty sits down with Amethysta Herrick, PhD, a transgender woman, scientist, and advocate, to discuss the growing wave of discriminatory legislation targeting transgender individuals.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 identityThe impact of anti-transgender legislationThe importance of advocacy and educationThe story behind Purple Paw Clan and Team Water💜 Support the cause: https://purplepawclan.comDon’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to help amplify voices that need to be heard.#TransRights #LeanToTheLeftPodcast #PurplePawClanCHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome00:10 Discriminatory Legislation Against Transgender People00:56 Introducing Amethysta Herrick, PhD01:56 Amethysta's Early Life and Academic Journey03:46 Transitioning and Professional Life05:03 Family Life and Personal Struggles05:54 Exploring Gender Identity and Transition07:28 Writing and Advocacy13:51 Impact of Trump's Policies on Transgender Community18:22 Conservative Upbringing and Personal Struggles19:06 Trump's Executive Orders and Gender Affirming Care19:43 Corporate Responses to Anti-DEI Policies20:07 First Amendment and Hate Speech22:10 The Story Behind Purple Paw Clan27:30 Team Water Initiative28:47 Conclusion and Contact Information

What was it like to serve as a Black federal employee during the most divisive presidency in modern American history? In this powerful episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, host Bob Gatty sits down with Deric Gilliard, activist, author, and retired federal public affairs advisor, to discuss his experiences promoting Trump administration policies.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 Americans01:39 Deric Gillard's Background and Career04:07 Experiences Under Different Administrations06:06 Impact of Trump's Policies11:25 COVID-19 and Trump's Leadership15:10 Federal Workforce and Safety Nets19:47 Trolling Trump on Social Media20:10 Impact of Cutting Education Programs21:11 Trump's Obsession with the Affordable Care Act22:14 Obama's Legacy and Racial Backlash25:15 Reflections on Working for Different Presidents33:27 The Importance of Telehealth During COVID34:24 Promoting Justice and Equality35:31 Discussing the New Book36:44 Upcoming Book Club Announcement

In this powerful episode of the Dixie Dems Podcast, part of the Lean to the Left network, Carole Bellacera — Air Force veteran, author, and unapologetic Southern Democrat — shares her story of resilience, activism, and the fight for fair representation in a deep-red state.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 strongholdHow Carole turned political exclusion into fuel for activismThe ongoing battle for democracy and representation in the SouthHer insights as an Air Force veteran and author of Incense and PeppermintsIf 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 #CaroleBellaceraCHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:14 Meet the Hosts and Guest Introduction01:26 Carole's Background and Achievements01:54 Carole's Music Endeavors03:11 Discussion on Nancy Mace05:15 Trump and Epstein Controversy06:20 Impact of Trump on Personal Relationships08:35 Nancy Mace Town Hall Incident14:53 Carolel's Activism and Political Views21:13 Confrontation with a Doctor21:50 Trump's COVID Treatment and Inequities22:52 Veterans and Trump's Policies24:14 Military and Public Opinion26:41 Corporate America's Response to DEI28:22 Desserts and Small Talk32:40 Trump's Health Speculations35:59 Vietnam War and Combat Nurses38:04 Conclusion and Farewell

In a shocking move, Trump’s Health Secretary RFK Jr. has restricted COVID vaccine access for kids, seniors, and the vulnerable — ignoring scientific evidence and risking countless lives.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.

What are some wealth creation strategies in today's economy? Welcome to the Lean to the Left Podcast with our guest, Bronson Hill, managing member of Bronson Equity and and author of the bestselling book 'Fire Yourself: Replace Your Working Income in Three Years or Less.' 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 Podcast00:20 Meet Bronson Hill: Wealth Generation Expert01:01 The Importance of Passive Income02:02 Impact of Tariffs and Inflation03:45 Opportunities Amidst Economic Challenges09:43 The Wealth Forum: A Network for High Net Worth Investors12:42 Bronson Hill's Journey to Financial Freedom17:50 Investment Strategies and Tax Benefits20:11 The Future of AI in Investments25:20 Final Thoughts and Free Resources

Thousands of trans troops are being banned and facing removal from the U.S. military under a Trump administration ban. The Pentagon’s message: self-identify and leave voluntarily with extended benefits — or face involuntary separation.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 Podcast00:53 – Meet Darrell Berry01:55 – Life in the Military & Anti-Gay Attitudes03:51 – The Plot of Early This Morning07:15 – Comparing Stories with Author Steve Berry09:14 – Trump’s Impact on LGBTQ+ Rights11:07 – Darrell’s Writing Journey & Future Projects12:55 – Publishing and Book Availability14:51 – 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

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, Amanda Lipman, founder and president of Run for Something discusses the future of the Democratic Party, the importance of inspiring young Democratic candidates, and Run for Something's mission to encourage and support young, diverse progressives running for local office. 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 Topic00:29 Meet Amanda Lipman: Founder of Run for Something01:21 The Mission and Impact of Run for Something03:05 Challenges and Strategies for Young Democratic Leaders05:19 The Rise of Zohran Mamdani and Its Impact08:25 The Future of the Democratic Party and Young Leaders17:30 Amanda Lipman's Book and Final Thoughts

Welcome to Dixie Dems, part of the Lean to the Left Podcast, the premier progressive voice in the South. In this episode, we feature Catherine Fleming Bruce, a committed Democratic activist running for the Democratic nomination to challenge Senator Lindsey Graham. Hosted by Arthur Hill, Robert Thompson, and Bob Gatty, the discussion covers Catherine’s motivations, grassroots activism, and her plans to address critical issues such as healthcare, climate change, and economic inequality. Join us as we explore why Catherine believes she can effectively challenge Graham and bring a progressive change to South Carolina.00:00 Introduction to Dixie Dems00:44 Meet Catherine Fleming Bruce01:57 Catherine's Political Journey and Vision05:26 Grassroots Activism and Campaign Strategy07:02 Challenges and Opportunities in the South08:09 Economic and Social Issues23:34 Healthcare and Community Impact35:37 Climate Change and Federal Responsibility41:24 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

The political atmosphere in this country with Donald Trump is hateful and getting worse. He is entrenching himself as a dictator and it's amazing that his MAGA supporters don't see this. Does he really think firing the person who reports his bad job numbers will change things? Come on, people. By the way, somebody, via email, threatened to throw acid in my face unless I paid him $4k. Was that because of my long effort to call out Trump, or was it just a stupid scam attempt?