The Lean to the Left Podcast

“America is not a racist country”. It is a sentiment expressed by Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) and echoed by Vice President Kamala Harris. Pretty much everyone agrees that, despite many having racist beliefs, our country, by and large, does not support racism. So, why is right wing media ramping up the racist rhetoric?In a word: Fear.That's the view of Not Fake News.biz writer Chris Waldron in commentary narrated by Bob Gatty. Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

The Republican slimebalms in Congress are crawling all over Joe Biden, calling for him to resign or be impeached over the Afghanistan tragedy. The hypocrisy is incredible, says Not Fake News writer Chris Waldron, in this episode. Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

A right wing South Carolina politician says President Biden should name Donald Trump as his special envoy to manage the Afghanistan pullout. The guy's name is Russell Fry. He's a SC state representative who is challenging Rep. Tom Rice (R-SC-7) in the Republican primary. He's going after the pretty much do-nothing Congressman because he had pangs of conscience and voted to impeach Trump for inciting the January 6th insurrection at the Capitol.Actually, sending Trump to Afghanistan isn't a bad idea. They'd deal with him there when he tries to import hookers and Playboy Bunnies or tries to take over as Supreme Leader. He could take his whole crime family with him. That would be good.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

We’re speaking with Matt Nisenoff, founder of Politipod, a cool, funny and informative podcast that focuses on politics. And so, in this episode, Matt and Lean to the Left's Bob Gatty take a somewhat irreverent look at key developments in today's news.The discussion ranges from the tragedy of Afghanistan, to Covid and the anti-vaxers, Trump, the Jan. 6th insurrection, pandering senators, nutcase members of Congress, and much more.Matt is a former political staffer and non-profit organization v.p, who decided a few years ago that it was time to have some fun with politics.Since January 2016, he's been running the Politipod podcast, which provides valuable information – and a laugh – every two weeks. Now, Politipod has dozens of contributors across the country, so it’s not just Matt.It's a fun and interesting conversation, and informative too. So take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

What if you're a registered sex offender for acts you did many years ago and now, you're elderly and infirm. You've been in the hospital for more than two months with Covid, and your hospitalization has run out. The doctors want to discharge you, but you have no place to go. That's where Timothy Poore and his company, ATP HealthCare in Florida, come in. And he's our guest on this show.Timothy’s firm works with hospitals to find placement options for hard-to-place patients. It’s a firm that works with patients and their families to answer the question, “What do I do now?”I thought it would be interesting to talk with Timothy about that, about some of the problems faced by many seniors, especially those suffering from dementia. But I also want to speak with him about the challenges faced by elderly patients as the Delta variant spreads in an atmosphere of mixed signals (at best) regarding mitigation.Timothy lives and works in a state where the governor practically turns school administrators into criminals for mandating masks for teachers and students, even as Covid cases – and deaths – skyrocket.And he also works in an industry that cares for the elderly, and that means nursing homes. The Biden administration is ordering those facilities to require staff to be vaccinated, but there is resistance, and the industry says that will only make current staff shortages worse and end up harming patients.We cover all that, and more, in this conversation with Timothy Poore.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

The other day in a Not Fake News blog and subsequent podcast, I blasted Trump for suggesting that Biden is pushing for booster shots because that would help the pharm companies make a lot of money.I said then that his message is exactly what the anti-vaxers want to hear and you can bet that it’ll be added to their excuses for not getting their shots and for putting everybody else’s health at risk.Since then, there has been an ongoing discussion on that article on Not Fake News.biz, largely prompted by an anti-vaxer who says it’s his personal right to decide whether to get a “jab” or not.Well, yesterday the FDA had to tell Trumpers (mostly) not to use a horse dewormer to deal with Covid instead of getting the shot.“You are not a horse,” it said. “You are not a cow. Seriously, y’all. Stop it.”So, I decided to help those anti-vaxers with their choices, since they are so much into making their own decisions for themselves, the hell with everybody else.Here goes. Take a listen to Freedom of Choice: Clorox or Horse Dewormer from Not Fake News.biz.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

New Jersey climate expert Dr. Marjorie Kaplan, in this episode co-hosted by former NJ Gov. and U.S. Rep. Jim Florio, stresses the urgency of action to combat climate change, responding to the recent UN Report that warns that time is running out.Dr. Kaplan manages the portfolio of the Rutgers Climate Institute, developing and managing research, outreach and education on understanding the climate system and the impacts of a changing climate across the natural, social and policy sciences.During the podcast, Dr. Kaplan discusses the New Jersey Climate Change Alliance, a statewide network of organizations that work to advance science-informed climate change strategies at the state and local levels in the Garden State. She says the Alliance provides a great example that can be duplicated in other regions of the country.She also discusses the New Jersey Climate Change Resource Center, established by the state to "create and support the use of impartial and actionable science to advance government, public, private, and nongovernamental sector efforts to adapt to, and mitigate, a changing climate."There is little time to waste, Dr. Kaplan says, stressing that an "all hands on deck" approach is needed to ease the negative consequences of climate change, involving the federal, state and local governments, as well as aligned private and nongovernmental organizations.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

I read today that Donald Trump said he is very proud of the Covid-19 vaccinations, of course taking credit for them, and that he would “love it” if more people got vaccinated. But then, typical Trump, he went on to suggest that the reason President Biden is calling for booster shots eight months after people received their second Pfizer or Moderna vaccinations is just so the pharmaceutical companies can make more money.Of course, that message is exactly what the anti-vaxers want to hear and you can bet that it’ll be added to their excuses for not getting their shots and for putting everybody else’s health at risk.I covered that in this commentary from Not Fake News.biz. Take a listen…Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today we’re addressing the horrific situation in Afghanistan with two pieces of commentary from two different writers at Not Fake News.biz.In the first, author Mark M. Bello points out that the origin of the American troop pullout that is taking place was with defeated President Donald Trump, but now the Republican politicians are jumping all over President Biden for following through.Then, we’ll switch to commentator Seth Mendelson, who writes about the tragic consequences of a war that never should have happened and expresses outrage at the horrific cost in human life, including our American service personnel who fought there, many not to return home.I’ll be narrating both pieces for these two fine writers.First, here’s “A tragedy 20 years in the making” by Mark Bello. Then, I’ll follow with “Angry about Afghanistan” by Seth Mendelson.Take a listen…Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

The topic today is “Critical Race Theory,” or CRT, and the controversy surrounding the teaching of the true history of our country and its racist past.White parents are rebelling, some red states and school districts are banning the teaching of CRT, and on social media the comments are vitriolic.Several facebook groups have been established to protest CRT teaching, with total membership of those showing up with a CRT search at close to 10,000 people. On one of those pages, called “Stop Critical Race Theory,” Rep. Dan Crenshaw of Texas posted this:“Why are you so threatened by CRT? It’s just an academic exercise in thinking outside the mainstream!”“Yea, well we don’t teach kids the earth is flat either. Why? Because it isn’t true. The earth isn’t flat, and our institutions aren’t secretly racist. Stop teaching CRT.”Many of the comments and back and forth on this page were much more pointed and obviously racist than that. There were comments that expressed concern about the White race losing its majority status, perhaps revealing the true fears harbored by CRT opponents.For example, on the site, “No Critical Race Theory in School,” John LaChance shared a post headlined:“Blue-eyed Whites will be Extinct by 2087.”Here’s part of that post:“If you continue to abide race politics, you're the problem. If you allow yourself to be shamed for being white, you're the problem. Stop being an apologist for our glorious stand in history, which raised the living standards and prospects for all people in the world.“Beginning with those who are blue-eyed, the White race is on the way to becoming extinct. We've been shamed into it. Soon, all White children will be fully indoctrinated in a school curriculum wrapped around "Critical Race Theory," whose bottom line reads: "Good riddance to White rubbish."Good God! These people actually walk among us.All of this is simply to introduce Stacy Fitzgerald, who just published a post on Not Fake News.biz entitled “Daring to Teach the Racism Truth.”Here’s Stacy…Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Hey guys, I’ve got a double header, a twin killing, for you today, both from blogs on Not Fake News.biz written by my pal, Chris Waldron.The first is “Donald Trump Returns to the White House—Not,” which points out that today, August 13, is the day that the conspiracy theorists said Biden would be removed from the White House in handcuffs and Trump would be “reinstated” as president.Well, My Pillow Guy Mike Lindell, last time we checked Biden was still running the show and Trump was still whining and feeling sorry for himself.Then, we’ll turn to Waldron’s piece, “Code Red for Planet Earth,” in which he stresses the importance of taking prompt action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions if the earth is to survive. Sounds like a bit of an exaggeration, right? Well, those folks suffering record heat waves, devastating fires, and increasingly severe weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes, don’t think so.So take a listen…Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Welcome. I’m Bob Gatty with Mark M. Bello, renowned social justice lawyer and author of riveting ripped-from-the-headline novels covering some of the major issues of our times.we’re speaking with Minnesota trial lawyer Mike Bryant, and a major focus of the episode involved sexual abuse cases involving the Catholic Church in which he’s been involved as an attorney.One of Mark’s novels, Betrayal of Faith, deals with this subject and during our interview Mike Bryant compares the plot in that book to real life cases in which he’s represented clients against the church.Bryant reveals the extent to which the Catholic Church is going to minimize the scandal involving its clergy and sex abuse, how it moves priests from parish to parish to protect them, and its use of bankruptcy to avoid or minimize payments to victims.Most of the questioning is by Bello, who, as an attorney, has represented similar clients and as an author has written extensively about this tragic topic.Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

With Republican leaders in Covid-19 hotspots crusading against vaccination and mask mandates and cheering low vax rates, what may have been dismissed as simple political opportunism has become much worse than that. It's become deadly.Here are four examples of Republican leaders who can be held responsible. They represent many others who continue to play politics with this deadly virus.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

This is the kickoff episode of Lean to the Left, the new name for our previous podcast, NFN Radio News. Thanks for checking us out.You know, the Republicans have been trying to blame President Biden for the recent surge in gasoline prices, so I figured we needed to see if that was really true. Could the president and his policies be to blame? So, who better to turn to than Jack Kerfoot, a scientist, energy expert and author of FUELING AMERICA: An Insider’s Journey. We previously talked with Jack about alternative energy and wind power, and that episode is now available for listening.I’m all about getting the facts and finding out what’s true and what’s not. Once again, it's important to trust the science and ignore the political rhetoric.So what about it Jack, should be blame President Byden for the fact that we’re paying more at the pump?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today's episode, Trump's Dirty Secret, comes to us from a blog written by Chris Waldron on NotFakeNews.biz. Secrets are no stranger to Trumpworld. There are his tax returns, his payoffs to mistresses, his non-disclosure agreements, and even his buy-offs of negative stories. The one secret he has been keeping under wraps is that he may not even believe the Big Lie.Yes, this is Trump’s dirty secret.Take a listen...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

With more than 350 episodes now streaming online, the NFN Radio News podcast is getting a new name to help better identify exactly what we're about. The new name: "Lean to the Left".When I launched NFN Radio News several months ago, my plan was to simply provide narrations of Not Fake News articles for the convenience of those who prefer to listen rather than read while they are relaxing or multitasking, which so many of us do in our busy lives.Then, after suggestions by listeners, I decided to expand the podcast's content to include interviews with newsmakers, experts, and people with interesting stories to tell. Those interviews have proven to be popular, and they have allowed me to return to my communications roots as a reporter, which I love. I thoroughly enjoy talking with interesting, smart people who have something meaningful to say and who can help us understand the important issues of our times.As I narrated these podcasts, I often used the phrase, "...with a little lean to the left" in closing remarks to describe our approach to politics and social issues. Again, upon the advice of listeners, I decided to rebrand the entire show. And so, "Lean to the Left" was born.Listen for more...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today attorney/author Mark Bello and I are speaking with Jesus “Eddie” Campa, author of a new book, “Unmasking Leadership: What They Don’t Tell You.” He’s a former police chief who lectures frequently on “Leading Through Diversity.”We’ll talk about those leadership topics, and we’ll also tap into Eddie’s background in law enforcement to get his view about the current debate over the need for police reform. Eddie Campa was born and raised in El Paso, Texas. After 27 years of law enforcement experience, he retired from the public service, and transitioned his experience and expertise into the private sector as a mentor, consultant, and sounding board. Eddie served as a Chief Deputy and Chief of Police on two different occasions throughout his career. As a result of his last tour in a city impacted by racial divisions, Eddie created and implemented the innovative No Colors No Labels Initiative. It was designed to remove the preconceived notion that the police were racially motivated. In 2017 Eddie was named Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian of the Year by the NAACP. He’s a leader who believes in diversity and that a workforce should mirror the community they serve. Eddie holds a Master’s in Criminal Justice and Security Administration and is currently working on a PH.D. in Public Service Leadership. He is a strong supporter of leadership development, strategic planning, customer service, crisis communication, 21st Century Policing, and Procedural Justice.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

I’m with Jim Florio today, and we’re talking politics. The episode actually was recorded on Tuesday, July 27, following the riveting testimony of four police officers who were seriously injured during the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.Florio, a former Congressman and governor of New Jersey, talks about what he believes will be the consequences for those Republican lawmakers who have minimized the attack and continue to support Donald Trump’s Big Lie about the election.Some of the highlights:•Trump supporters in Congress who are backing Trump and his election fraud lies will not be treated kindly by history.•Vladimir Putin undoubtedly wanted Trump elected because he knew he was unstable and could be easily manipulated.•Trump’s opposition to wind energy because turbines “cause cancer” was ridiculous.•Water “is the new oil” and we need to husband those resources in the battle against climate change.Here’s our conversation.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

On July 27, two Republican members of the House of Representatives stood up to their own party and defended our Constitution and the rule of law.And just before Reps. Liz Cheney (R-WY) and Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) did that during the opening of the first House select committee hearing into the January 6 attack on the Capitol, House GOP leaders tried to shift the blame for the insurrection to Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), ignoring the fact that the attacking mob had been urged on by Donald Trump.That effort was despicable, but not surprising. And it undoubtedly will continue.Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today Author/lawyer and podcaster Mark Bello and I are with Yvener Duroseau, author of “Alike Regardless: This is Where it Began.” His mission is to encourage us to challenge the status quo, fight for social justice, and seek to challenge the norm of division that’s present in humankind.Yvener was born in Haiti before moving to the United States. He grew up learning Haiti’s profound history as the first nation in which a group of enslaved Africans came together to fight and win their independence. Yvener is a creative writer, Diversity and inclusion consultant, author, and motivational speaker on diversity and inclusion. His debut book, Alike Regardless, challenges the norm of division present in humankind. It is a call to action for people to recognize the beauty and uniqueness throughout the human race and cease wearing the blinders of bigotry and hate. In his book, to be published in August, Yvener pours out his soul, reveals the dreams he has for a more diverse and socially just world, and prompts readers to think more deeply about these issues.On the podcast, Yvener challenges us to look inward, assess the reasons for racist or discriminatory thoughts, and commit to putting those aside. His is a message of positivity, of optimism, of hope. It is a view of what the world could be if we all would just try.Take a listen. It's worth your time.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

that takes a look at Donald Trump’s insatiable quest for power and the tragic, corruptive consequences of that quest.So, here’s “The Corruption of the Quest for Power” by Chris Waldron on Not Fake News.biz.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today I’m with Kevin Hofmann, author of Growing Up Black in White, the story of a young man who by the time he turned 2 years had survived an abortion, been given away by his mother, adopted by a family of another race and woke up to a burning cross in his front yard.Kevin was born in Detroit in August 1967 two weeks after the riots that changed that city forever. It was out of these amazing circumstances his life and purpose began, and it is out of these experiences he tells his story.It’s a story of struggle and joy, pain and passion, and most of all hope. And now, because of his own life experiences, Kevin works tirelessly to unite the races that share equal parts of his DNA. Kevin presently works with k-12 school districts, universities, and organizations in the area of diversity and inclusion. From such a unique world view, Kevin works to create a place where ALL can thrive.So, we’re thrilled to have Kevin with us today.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Two stories in the news today involve money in politics, one surprisingly positive and hopeful, the other, not so much. What do we learn from each?The good news?The Hill reports that all but one of the Republicans in Congress who voted to impeach President Donald Trump in January are outpacing their primary election challengers in the money-raising sweepstakes. Some by a long shot.But the not-so-good news?The bad news story showed up in The Washington Post, revealing that many of the companies who had pledged to pause or rethink political contributions after the Jan. 6 insurrection to those who voted against certifying President Biden's victory are now contributing to those lawmakers once again.Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today, I’m going to present a blog written by Chris Waldron of Not Fake News.biz that takes a look at history – at the Republican Party’s repeated efforts to rewrite history – and its implications for the future. So, here’s “Ignoring History: To the GOP’s Peril” by Chris Waldron on Not Fake News.biz.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Get ready for $4 per gallon gasoline prices and a spike in inflation warns long-time energy expert Jack Kerfoot in this exclusive interview with the NFN Radio News podcast.Noting that oil is now at $70 per barrel, Kerfoot cited industry sources as predicting a rise to $90-$95 BBL by next year and $100/BBL by 2030, unless action to replace America's reliance on fossil fuels is successfully replaced by renewable energy, including solar and wind.“What that will mean is that if you have a gasoline vehicle, you will be seeing your fuel cost possibly double if we’re talking about transportation," Kerfoot says. "That will mean that we will see a surge in inflation. As it is, there is a concern right now, but I think that would absolutely guarantee inflation. And, having gone through the 1980s, I remember when inflation was 15-16 and 17-18 percent. The economy is not stable. It’s a very volatile economy. It’s not healthy for the worker, it’s not healthy for businesses, and it will be an even more chaotic time than we have today.”But America won't just feel the impact at the gas pump, Kerfoot cautions."The real pain from high oil prices will be for diesel for trucks transporting goods across the county, which will mean a potential spike in inflation," he says. "Although the move to electric vehicles is in the foreseeable future, the move to large trucks will take more time. Hydrogen might be a solution to fueling large trucks and machinery."On the podcast, co-hosted by former New Jersey Gov. Jim Florio, Kerfoot is optimistic that action by the Biden administration and continued progress by the renewable energy industry, as well as impending improvements in electric vehicles, will help to ease those prices in the future and strengthen the economy.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Donald Trump is claiming ignorance about fringe benefit tax law requirements. He's the same guy who's repeatedly claimed to be a tax genius. Those who believe his election lies probably will fall for his line, but what about the courts?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

We hear a lot about ethics in business these days, but we also see a lot of greed -- a fact that seems driven home nearly every day if we simply watch the news or even just go about our everyday lives.Fortunately, though, there are companies, large and small, that do care more about doing what's right than about ringing out every penny of profit, and a friend of mine, Brad Borkhuis, is dedicated to helping them do exactly that.I first met Brad when he ran a convenience industry food distribution company in North Dakota and one of my communications clients was a Washington, DC-based trade association that served that industry. I admired Brad for his smarts, his openness, and was grateful for his willingness to share information with me that helped me do my job. Today, Brad is a business management coach and operates a company called Epitome Coaching and Consulting. He’s the author of a book on Amazon, “Eye of the Storm: Leading from Peace When All Hell is Breaking Loose,” and writes a blog called "The Greatness Garage." The philosophy that guides him in his life and his work is this: Do Right, Be Right, and Pay it Forward. I like that a lot.In this episode of NFN Radio News, Brad talks with me about what it takes to achieve business success while also doing right, being right, and paying forward. Take a listen:Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today, we check in with Dave Fleischer who’s just completed his Journey of Hope in memory of his daughter, Sarah, who passed away in 2018 from a horrible cancer, cholangiocarcinoma.In this episode, Dave reports in from Maine after driving more than 15,000 miles as he crisscrossed the country and visited 19 communities called Hope, numerous cholangiocarcinoma caregivers, patients and families. A major goal of the trip, which took Dave to all 48 contiguous states, was to raise money to support research into Cholangiocarcinoma and to spread awareness and bring hope to patients, caregivers, and others along the way. At more than $50,000, exceeded the goal of $45,000 – and more donations are still being accepted.The road trip, in a car with a specially designed wrap promoting cholangiocarcinoma awareness, included stops at hospitals and healthcare institutions that specialize in research and treatment of the disease, plus the get-togethers with patients, caregivers and healthcare providers who were important in Sarah's life. In today’s episode, Dave reports on more of these meetings, some that proved to be especially meaningful to him. One such meetup was with Tom Lietzke, a 14-year survivor of Cholangiocarcinoma, and who prepared the image used for this episode.Cholangiocarcinoma starts in the bile duct and is an incredibly deadly cancer, which afflicts about 8,000 people in the United States each year. Most of its victims are 65 or older, but Sarah was only 31 when she was diagnosed. She passed away at age 35.The trip was supported by the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, which made the specially designed Honda SUV available for the journey. Sponsors were Incyte, Ken Garff Honda, QED Therapeutics, Servier, Taiho Oncology, Welch’s Fruit Snacks and Zymeworks. Tee shirts commemorating the trip are available by clicking on the store at https:cholangiocarcinoma.org.And now, let’s talk with Dave Fleischer as he reports in after his sixth and final week on the Journey of Hope.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today, we’re going to talk about the GOP’s Larry, Moe and Curly, the big shots who’s weakness and lack of conscience have enabled Donald Trump’s Big Lie about the election.Here’s “The GOP Top Three Deplorables” from Not Fake News.biz.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today, we check in with Dave Fleischer who’s just completed his fifth week of the Journey of Hope in memory of his daughter, Sarah, who passed away in 2018 from a horrible cancer, cholangiocarcinoma.In this episode, Dave reports in from Colorado Springs, Colorado after driving 13,000 miles as he’s crossed the country and visited several towns called Hope, numerous cholangiocarcinoma caregivers, patients and families. Altogether, plans call for the trip to include stops in 19 towns named Hope all across the country.A major goal of the trip, which is taking Dave to all 48 contiguous states, is to raise money to support research into Cholangiocarcinoma and to spread awareness and bring hope to patients, caregivers, and others along the way. He’s nearly reached the goal of $45,000 – and with one week to go, is secretly hoping to raise even more. The journey is scheduled to end June 30.The road trip, in a car with a specially designed wrap promoting cholangiocarcinoma awareness, includes stops at hospitals and healthcare institutions that specialize in research and treatment of the disease, plus the get-togethers with patients, caregivers and healthcare providers who were important in Sarah's life. He reports on more of these in this episode.Cholangiocarcinoma starts in the bile duct and is an incredibly deadly cancer, which afflicts about 8,000 people in the United States each year. Most of its victims are 65 or older, but Sarah was only 31 when she was diagnosed. She passed away at age 35.The trip is being supported by the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, which has made the specially designed Honda SUV available for the journey. Sponsors are Incyte, Ken Garff Honda, QED Therapeutics, Servier, Taiho Oncology, Welch’s Fruit Snacks and Zymeworks. Tee shirts commemorating the trip are available by clicking on the store at https:cholangiocarcinoma.org.And now, let’s talk with Dave Fleischer as he reports in after his fifth week on the Journey of Hope.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Water is the "new oil," according to former New Jersey Gov. Jim Florio and attorney Lester Taylor, both of whom caution that our nation must act now to effectively husband its water resources to avoid serious consequences in the future.On a new episode of the NFN Radio News podcast, Florio declared, "Water is emerging as a major concern of this country and the world. The fact is, I’ve heard it said that water is the new oil, and what oil was to the last century water is going to be to this century – a major factor in terms of the economy, in terms of survival, and there are lots of problems that we haven’t really paid attention to. Water, of course, we don’t think about until we turn on the faucet and nothing comes out. Then we think about it."Taylor, who works with numerous organizations regarding infrastructure and natural resources, is the former mayor of East Orange, NJ, which manages and operates its own water utility. When he became mayor, he was challenged with managing that resource, and because of the lack of previous infrastructure investment, was forced to raise local water rates by about 75 percent."People tend to be reactive," said Taylor. "When you couple the business interests of the private sector with water with the political and public policy issues of elected officials and/or appointed officials, it’s really hard to make the decision to invest in infrastructure because nobody sees infrastructure. People turn on the tap, they expect water to magically appear; they don’t understand or fully appreciate the tens of millions of dollars that go into making that happen." Taylor is co-chair of New Jersey Water Works Education & Outreach Committee, which he said is "reaching out to municipalities and educational institutions K through 12 to raise awareness about sustainability of our infrastructure." He also serves on the board of Sustainable New Jersey and is a member of executive committee and chair of development committee. Taylor speaks nationally regarding environmental and infrastructure issues.Taylor pointed out that the nation faces numerous challenges. "The pandemic has shown that one ripple in the supply chain can affect every facet of our life," he said. "Who would have thought that a virus would result in there being no water or toilet paper in Costco because people were too sick and couldn’t go to work to produce the product? So it highlights how we are interdependent, and water is a source of life, and we have to protect it.”Florio pointed out that the lack of early action worsened the consequences of the pandemic. "We've paid a high price because we didn't do things early on," he said. "If we don't pay attention to things now, we'll pay a price later on."Both Florio and Taylor emphasized the importance of Washington reaching agreement on infrastructure legislation."Through investment in the infrastructure, it also will produce jobs, and so we talk about environmental justice, economic justice; those are key components to help build the infrastructure of our communities, providing clean and safe drinking water and/or electric and gas resources, but also, quite frankly, creating new fields of employment and careers for people in various communities."But the bottom line, said Taylor, is that investment -- and reinvestment -- in infrastructure is critically important."Ultimately, our resources, water, electricity, you have to invest in them and reinvest in them to make the delivery stronger," he said. "There’s no one-time fix for a pipe, an aquifer. There are so many different systems for water delivery in our state, in our country, that it requires continuous investment."It’s no different than your car. You’re got to change the oil; you’ve got to rotate the tires, and if you don’t, you’re going to run it into the ground. Our natural resources and delivery system for same are no different."Listen to the complete interview.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

With Senate Republicans blocking the voting rights bill, the people must vote no matter what, and when they do, they must remember who tried tried to stop them. There is only one solution to voter suppression: Voting -- no matter the roadblocks the Republicans try to impose.Take a listen...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today, I’m going to narrate commentary by Not Fake News writer Chris Waldron as he discusses why today's Republican Party, the GOP, the Party of Lincoln, can no longer be called "American". Chris offers five reasons why this is the case.So take a listen to "The Un-American Republican Party" by Chris Waldron of Not Fake News.biz.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

The politicians in Congress, many of them facing reelection in 2022, wasted no time in declaring Juneteenth, the day enslaved people in Galveston, TX, learned that they were free, a national holiday. For many, particularly most Republicans, it was the easy way out-- as well as an act of hypocrisy. Take a listen to the comments at a Juneteenth commemoration in South Carolina.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

What if Donald Trump, the disgraced, twice impeached former president, decided to run for Congress in 2022 with the intention of taking over as Speaker of the House and launching impeachment proceedings against President Joe Biden?Is that crazy? Would Trump really put aside his ego and run for the lowly House of Representatives? Is he that vindictive?What do you think?Take a listen...to Speaker Trump.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Hey guys, thanks for stopping by the NFN Radio News podcast. Today, we check in with Dave Fleischer who’s just completed his fourth week of the Journey of Hope in memory of his daughter, Sarah, who passed away in 2018 from a horrible cancer, cholangiocarcinoma.In this episode, Dave reports in from Hershey, PA after driving 10,000 miles as he’s crossed the country and visited several towns called Hope, numerous cholangiocarcinoma caregivers, patients and families. Altogether, plans call for the trip to include stops in 17, maybe 18 towns named Hope all across the country.A major goal of the trip, which will take Dave to all 48 contiguous states, is to help raise money to support research into this disease and during which they hope to spread awareness and bring hope to patients, caregivers, and others along the way. He’s closing in on the goal of $45,000 – and the trip has two weeks to go. The journey is scheduled to end June 29 or July 1, depending on circumstances.The road trip, in a car with a specially designed wrap promoting cholangiocarcinoma awareness, includes stops at various hospitals and healthcare institutions that specialize in research and treatment of the disease, in addition to the get-togethers with patients, caregivers and healthcare providers who were important in Sarah's life. He says those visits are remarkable.Cholangiocarcinoma starts in the bile duct and is an incredibly deadly cancer, which afflicts about 8,000 people in the United States each year. Most of its victims are 65 or older, but Sarah was only 31 when she was diagnosed. She passed away at age 35.The trip is being supported by the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, which has made the specially designed Honda SUV available for the journey. Sponsors are Incyte, Ken Garff Honda, QED Therapeutics, Servier, Taiho Oncology, Welch’s Fruit Snacks and Zymeworks. Tee shirts commemorating the trip are available by clicking on the store at https:cholangiocarcinoma.org.And now, let’s talk with Dave Fleischer as he reports in after his fourth week on the Journey of Hope, during which he’ll share with us what he’s been thinking about while driving all those miles by himself. Some of it’s funny. Some pretty meaningful.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Hey guys, welcome to the podcast. Today we’ll be hearing about an atrocity in China, where innocent people are reportedly being murdered for profit – so their organs can be sold and used for transplant.It’s an unbelievably brutal practice that has been described as a New kind of evil that has not existed on this planet before.”It’s hard to believe that this kind of evil is going on, so today we’ll hear from Mitchell Gerber, who has dedicated nearly two decades exposing these practices.First, here are some resources to check for yourself.https://faluninfo.net/http://faluninfo.net/why-persecution/ http://www.stoporganharvesting.org/ https://endtransplantabuse.org/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIiVlIkJcJU&t=1228sBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Hey guys, thanks for stopping by the NFN Radio News podcast. Today, we check in with Dave Fleisher who’s just completed his third week of the Journey of Hope in memory of his daughter, Sarah, who passed away in 2018 from a horrible cancer, cholangiocarcinoma.In this episode, Dave reports in from South Carolina, after crossing the country and visiting several towns called Hope, several cholangiocarcinoma caregivers, patients and families. Altogether, plans call for the trip to include stops in 17, maybe 18 towns named Hope all across the country.A major goal of the trip, which will take Dave to all 48 contiguous states, is to help raise money to support research into this disease and during which they hope to spread awareness and bring hope to patients, caregivers, and others along the way. He reports that after three weeks of the Journey, he’s closing in on the goal of $45,000 – and the trip is only about half-way completed. The journey is scheduled to end June 29 or July 1, depending on circumstances.“That’s pretty cool,” Dave says. The road trip, in a car with a specially designed wrap promoting cholangiocarcinoma awareness, includes stops at various hospitals and healthcare institutions that specialize in research and treatment of the disease, in addition to the get-togethers with patients, caregivers and healthcare providers who were important in Sarah's life. He says those visits are remarkable.Cholangiocarcinoma starts in the bile duct and is an incredibly deadly cancer, which afflicts about 8,000 people in the United States each year. Most of its victims are 65 or older, but Sarah was only 31 when she was diagnosed. She passed away at age 35.The trip is being supported by the Foundation, which has made the specially designed Honda SUV available for the journey. Sponsors are Incyte, Ken Garff Honda, QED Therapeutics, Servier, Taiho Oncology, Welch’s Fruit Snacks and Zymeworks.And now, let’s talk with Dave Fleisher as he reports in after his third week on the Journey of Hope, during which he’ll tell us about conversations with the “unknowings.”Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today’s topic is higher education and former New Jersey Governor Jim Florio and I are speaking with attorney Steven Weinstein who has extensive experience in both education and government relations. He joined the New Jersey law firm of Connell Foley in April 2021 after serving as general counsel and executive vice president for government relations at Rowan University.Steve built an outstanding team that helped New Jersey’s Rowan University become a unique major research university. His advocacy and government relations efforts helped make Rowan the 4th fastest growing public research university in the country.Today, Governor Florio and I will talk with Steve about the higher education challenges that are facing students, as well as colleges and universities across the nation.We’ll talk about the skyrocketing costs, how changing demographics are affecting colleges and universities, the potential entry of big tech into the higher education arena, funding, and much more.So welcome Steve. We’re looking forward to this discussion.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WVA), who is driving Democrats crazy by blocking their major voter reform bill because he wants it to be more "bipartisan", is exactly the tool Donald Trump and Mitch McConnell need to execute their strategy to regain control of the U.S. Senate.Whether what he is doing is a deliberate attempt to satisfy Trump supporters in his home state and act like a "semi-Republican," or because he is truly committed to the ideal of bipartisanship, is now being debated. Regardless, his refusal to support the For the People Act, the Democrats' critically important election reform bill, is unconscionable.Manchin is playing directly into the hands of Donald Trump and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) who already hold the filibuster card, and Manchin opposes any effort to take that card away. With a 50-50 tie in the Senate and only Vice President Harris as the deciding vote, Democrats have no margin for lost party-line votes.Listen for more...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Justin Long never felt comfortable in his own skin. After years of physical and psychological abuse from his parents, he was a self-loathing stranger to love. But at thirty-two, he faced up to the fact that his existence had become a downward spiral of alcoholism and despair.Knowing something had to change, Justin sought help and got sober. But defeating addiction was just the start of his journey of endurance and revelation. Committed to becoming whole, he fought through his cynicism about men and counseling in order to resolve his underlying pain and rise above his past.Now, he’s written a book about those experiences. It’s called The Righteous Rage of a Ten-Year-Old Boy…a Journey of Self-Discovery. It’s a raw narrative of Justin’s battle, unflinchingly honest, offering encouragement to those who face similar challenges every day.Justin is our guest in this episode of the NFN Radio News podcast.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today, I’m going to present for you commentary by Not Fake News writer Chris Waldron as he traces the history of racism in America, the influence of Donald Trump, and a word of caution for all of us.Here’s America’s Racist History by Chris Waldron of Not Fake News.biz. Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Dave Fleischer has now traveled almost 6,000 miles on the Journey of Hope in memory of his daughter, Sarah, who passed away in 2018 from a horrible cancer, cholangiocarcinoma.In this episode, Dave reports in from New England, after crossing the country and visiting several towns called Hope, several cholangiocarcinoma caregivers, patients and families. Altogether, plans call for the trip to include stops in 17 towns named Hope all across the country.A major goal of the trip, which will take Dave to all 48 contiguous states, is to help raise money to support research into this disease and during which they hope to spread awareness and bring hope to patients, caregivers, and others along the way. He reports that two weeks of the Journey, more than $30,000 has been raised – an astonishing amount, as the original goal for the entire trip was $15,000. There is now a new goal of $45,000.“That’s pretty cool,” Dave says. The road trip, in a car with a specially designed wrap promoting cholangiocarcinoma awareness, includes stops at various hospitals and healthcare institutions that specialize in research and treatment of the disease, and get-togethers with other patients, caregivers and healthcare providers who were important in Sarah's life. Last week, Dave and his wife, Linda, visited the Mayo Clinic. Cholangiocarcinoma starts in the bile duct and is an incredibly deadly cancer, which afflicts about 8,000 people in the United States each year. Most of its victims are 65 or older, but Sarah was only 31 when she was diagnosed. She passed away at age 35.Linda flew home last Sunday after 10 days on the road with Dave, so he’s now on his own – except for the many well-wishers and supporters he is meeting along the way. The journey is scheduled to end June 29 or July 1, depending on circumstances.The trip is being supported by the Foundation, which has made the specially designed Honda SUV available for the journey. Sponsors are Incyte, Ken Garff Honda, QED Therapeutics, Servier, Taiho Oncology, Welch’s Fruit Snacks and Zymeworks.And now, let’s talk with Dave Fleisher as he reports in after his second week on the Journey of Hope.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Donald Trump, a failed president who was twice impeached and could face criminal charges for some of his misdeeds, failed at something else: turning America into a totalitarian society.That's the view of Simon Chadwick, born in South Africa the son of an exiled anti-apartheid activist, who grew up in a totalitarian society that suppressed opposition, oppressed large segments of the population, and where politicians engineered society to their own advantage.In a new episode of the NFN Radio News podcast, Chadwick says the similarities to what Trump tried to achieve in the U.S. and apartheid South African were many, and began even before he won the 2016 election.Chadwick says Trump's rise to power and subsequent actions prompted him to write the book, "For the People: A Citizen's Manifesto to Shaping Our Nation's Future." For more, take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

For more than 20 years, Miko Pickett made her mark in corporate IT, and today, this native of New Jersey is making a big time difference in her mostly African American community in South Carolina, where nearly 25 percent live in poverty.This whirlwind of a woman, who ran for the South Carolina state House of Representatives in 2020 just four years after moving to the Palmetto State, is determined to change her community for the better and help those who are struggling. But she's doesn't just talk a good game; she's in the trenches, doing the work, and making it happen.On this week's episode of the NFN Radio News Podcast, co-hosted by former Gov. Jim Florio, Miko emphasizes the importance of voting and how her organization is informing individuals in her community about the importance of voting and then helping them exercise that precious right.She talks about her battle to increase the minimum wage, noting that at $7.25 -- the rate in South Carolina that hasn't changed in 13 years -- people are left in poverty and can't possibly make ends meet. She says she has no sympathy for corporations with high stock prices that refuse to pay a living wage.During our interview with Miko, in which she tells Florio that her father worked in one of his campaigns and that she considers him "New Jersey royalty," she says another run for office could be in her future, adding that she's "just waiting for the call."Take a listen to the complete interview.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

I could be wrong, been wrong before, but I’m pretty sure Trump and the Republicans who opposed creating the bipartisan commission to investigate the January 6 insurrection have shot themselves in the foot.That commission was being established as bipartisan, with equal numbers of Democrats and Republicans, and it was designed to be politically independent as well.But Trump didn ‘t want to expose himself to what he must know would be devastating conclusions and Mitch McConnell wanted to protect Senate Republicans from political nastiness that he feared would result.Well, Senator…just wait. Because if Nancy Pelosi creates a Select Committee to conduct such an investigation, it will be stacked with Democrats and it’ll be used to raise hell with Trump and the Republicans well into the 2022 election season. Just like the Republicans did with Benghazi and Hilary Clinton.That’s our topic for today from Not Fake News. Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Dave and Linda Fleischer are well underway on their Journey of Hope in memory of their daughter, Sarah, who passed away in 2018 from a horrible cancer, cholangiocarcinoma.In this episode, Dave reports in from South Dakota, after visiting several western states, three towns called Hope, and several colangiocarcinoma patients and families. All together, plans call for the trip to include stops in 18 towns named Hope all across the country.A major goal of the trip, which will take Dave to all 48 contiguous states, is to help raise money to support research into this disease and during which they hope to spread awareness and bring hope to patients, caregivers, and others along the way. He reports that in the first week of the Journey, $20,000 has been raised – an astonishing amount, as the original goal for the entire trip was $15,000.“That’s pretty cool,” Dave says. The road trip, in a car with a specially designed wrap promoting cholangiocarcinoma awareness, will include stops at various hospitals and healthcare institutions that specialize in research and treatment of the disease, and get-togethers with other patients, caregivers and healthcare providers who were important in Sarah's life. This coming week, Dave and Linda will visit the Mayo Clinic.Cholangiocarcinoma starts in the bile duct and is an incredibly deadly cancer, which afflicts about 8,000 people in the United States each year. Most of its victims are 65 or older, but Sarah was only 31 when she was diagnosed. She passed away at age 35.Linda will be flying home next Sunday after 10 days on the road with Dave, and then he will be on his own – except for the many well-wishers and supporters he is meeting along the way. The journey is scheduled to end June 29 or July 1, depending on circumstances.The trip is being supported by the Foundation, which has made the specially designed Honda SUV available for the journey. Sponsors are Incyte, Ken Garff Honda, QED Therapeutics, Servier, Taiho Oncology, Welch’s Fruit Snacks and Zymeworks.And now, let’s talk with Dave Fleisher as he reports in after his first week on the Journey of Hope.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

For many parents, watching their child head out to their school's football field, proudly wearing their uniforms with their names emblazoned on their back, is a proud moment. But for many, it also is filled with trepidation. What happens if he gets hurt? What happens if he suffers a concussion? How do I handle this?Traumatic brain injuries, unfortunately, are a part of life -- whether they're suffered playing sports, from a fall, an automobile accident, or whatever. They happen, and they can have serious consequences.In this episode, attorney/author Mark M. Bello and I interview Michael V. Kaplen, senior partner in the New York personal injury law firm, De Caro & Kaplen. His practice focuses on personal injury and medical malpractice with an emphasis on representing individuals who have sustained a traumatic or acquired brain injury and other catastrophic injuries.The conversation covers the many ways brain injuries can occur, what parents might consider when confronted with allowing a child to play sports, what some of the legal ramifications are when an injury occurs, and efforts by some special interest groups to limit an individual's right to achieve proper redress through litigation.Take a listen to "Traumatic Brain Injuries and the Law" from Not Fake News.biz.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Not Fake News contributing writer Chris Waldron has some pointed comments to make about today’s Republican Party. In this blog from Not Fake News.biz, which I narrate, Waldron puts the GOP’s current decline into the darkness of Trumpism into perspective, noting that cowardice is nothing new for many Republican politicians.He brings back the memories of Richard Nixon and Watergate and Sen. Joe McCarthy and his Red Scare crusade against Communism as examples, and brings it all into focus with the January 6th insurrection and the Republicans’ current effort to rewrite that ever-so-recent history.Take a listen to “The Party of Cowards” by Chris Waldron from Not Fake News.biz.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.