Understanding the Climate Crisis: Global Warming Is Real

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

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

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

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

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:05 Trump's Environmental Policies

01:04 Introducing Tom Schumann

01:29 Tom's Journey and Projects

03:08 Trump's Impact on Climate Change

06:32 Challenges with Electric Vehicles

16:58 The Triple Bottom Line

18:05 Public Lands and Fossil Fuels

22:03 Supporting Environmental Efforts

22:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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About Bob Gatty

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

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

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

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

Veterans vs. Trump: How Vote Vets is Fighting Back

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

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

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

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

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

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement

00:35 Veterans Under the Trump Administration

02:41 Meet Vanessa Goldbeck: Advocate for Veterans

03:24 Vote Vets and Vet Voice Foundation

04:25 Success Stories and Election Impact

07:23 Challenges and Advocacy Efforts

09:31 Veterans' Voting Rights and Legal Battles

17:51 Diversity and Inclusion in the Military

34:12 Public Lands and Environmental Advocacy

39:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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

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

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

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

About Bob Gatty

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

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

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

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

How For-Profit Hospitals Harm Patients

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

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

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

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

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Lean to the Left Podcast

00:15 Challenges Facing Nurses Today

00:45 Interview with Kathy Allen: Gutsy Nurses

01:17 Current State of Nursing and Healthcare

04:42 Impact of For-Profit Healthcare

09:29 Innovative Approaches in Nursing

09:50 Kathy Allen's Background and Mission

10:47 Gutsy Nurses Program and Classes

15:59 Alternative Healing Methods

23:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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

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

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

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

About Bob Gatty

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

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

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

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

No Kings Day: Challenging MAGA in the South

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

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

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

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

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Context

00:54 Interview with John Vincent

01:00 Rally Experience and Observations

03:20 Core Message to the People

07:27 Military Involvement Concerns

12:00 Political Strategy and Messaging

17:03 Campaign Against Russell Fry

21:02 Analyzing Trump's Approval Ratings

21:41 Understanding Voter Shifts

22:37 Campaign Encouragement and District Analysis

24:44 Campaign Strategy and Social Media

27:49 Veterans' Issues and Political Stance

34:23 Campaign Conclusion and Call to Action

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

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

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

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

About Bob Gatty

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

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

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

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

The Battle for Press Freedom

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

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

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

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

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

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Trump's Assault on Press Freedom

00:54 Interview with Christine Rogers

01:20 Impact of Trump's Media Attacks

04:34 The Decline of Trust in Media

06:14 Challenges in Local Journalism

08:47 Economic Pressures on Media Outlets

12:38 The Role of Podcasts and New Media

14:32 Blurred Lines Between News and Editorial

25:22 Solutions for Journalism's Future

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

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

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

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

About Bob Gatty

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

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

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

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

Opportunities for Democrats in Red States

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

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

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

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

CHANNELS:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement

01:04 Meet Dan Schaefer: Background and Political Journey

03:09 Missouri's Political Landscape and Challenges

07:31 The Role of Communication in Politics

15:13 Democratic Party Strategies and Challenges

24:29 Blame Game and Federal Judges

25:24 Tariffs and Technology

28:52 Women's Rights and Personal Stories

32:02 Labor Unions and Workers' Rights

38:07 Political Bribery and Corruption

41:26 State Politics and Upcoming Elections

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

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

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

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

About Bob Gatty

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

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

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

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

Americas Political Divide

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

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

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

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

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: Political Divisions in America

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

01:26 Understanding the Political and Social Divide

03:37 Key Areas of Heated Political Debate

05:11 Political Perspectives: Protectors vs. Promoters

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

15:43 Alternative Facts and Their Impact

23:51 Trump's Policies and Public Perception

30:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

🎧 Subscribe for fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

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

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

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

About Bob Gatty

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

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

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

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

Boosting Youth Voter Turnout: Connor Treacy on Lean to the Left Podcast

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

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

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

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

CHAPTERS:

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

00:35 Guest Introduction: Connor Treacy's Mission

01:23 Challenges for Young Voter Turnout

02:14 Factors Influencing Young Voters

04:17 Cultural Events and Political Engagement

05:20 Building Community Through Events

09:13 Expanding Political Events Beyond California

13:19 Connor Treacy's Political Beliefs

18:24 Future of Democratic Strategies

20:21 Conclusion and Contact Information

🎧 Subscribe for fearless commentary that cuts through the noise.

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

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

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

About Bob Gatty

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

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

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

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