The Lean to the Left Podcast

It is not every day you get to live your dreams and do what you love; this philosophy guides the professional life of Dr. Pamela Gurley, our guest on the Lean to the Left Podcast today.Dr. Pam says she’s a “busy and empowered boss lady working every day to change how Black women are perceived.” We’ll find out more about that.She says she’s “a fierce entrepreneur” as an author, professional speaker, CEO, podcaster, professor, and businesswoman. In 2021, she was awarded the RadioOne EmpowerHER “Empowering Motivation” award for her commitment to uplifting others.She’s a retired U.S. Army veteran, holds a BA in Psychology, a Master’s in Health Service Administration, and a Doctorate in Management.Dr. Pam has written several books focused on empowering Black women and in May will kick off a new book tour promoting a new children’s books series written for Black kids.In the episode, Dr. Pam expresses concern about efforts by Republicans in some states to restrict voting rights and about the failure of Congress to pass legislation to counteract those restrictions.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

In typical Republican fashion, many GOP lawmakers who voted against the new infrastructure law are claiming credit for bringing home millions in funding for projects in their districts."It's a tale as old as time -- Republican lawmakers fight against popular legislation that helps the American people, and then try to take credit for it," the Democratic National Committee (DNC) pointed out.However, this time that "Vote Not and Take the Dough" scam isn't working as those hypocritical Congress people are being called out and held accountable by both national and local media outlets.As revealed by the DNC, here are some examples:Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

The Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution was written in the aftermath of the Civil War. This landmark addition defined what made a person a citizen, equal protection under the law and even addressed Civil War debt.But, it is section three of this amendment that could be used as a tool to punish those who took part in the January 6th insurrection by having them removed from office and preventing them from ever holding public office in the future.The Fourteenth Amendment allows for anyone who takes part in an attempt to overthrow the government to be removed from office and to be barred from ever holding office again.This could certainly explain why so many Republicans are refusing to provide testimony to the January 6th committee. To do so might result in their removal and possibly even criminal action being brought against them. So, who exactly would be at risk if the provisions of the Fourteenth Amendment were enforced? Take a listen to this commentary from NotFakeNews.biz written by CJ Waldron and narrated by Bob Gatty.Note: In the photo, Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-MS), chair of the House January 6th CommitteeIntro Music by Scott Ramminger.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Hey guys, something a little different for you today.We’re with an old buddy of mine, Scott Ramminger, a brilliant songwriter and blues musician based in Nashville, who’s coming out Feb. 4 with a new album, “Live from Third & Lindsley Nashville.”It’s his sixth record since 2011, and the third since he relocated from the Washington DC area to Nashville in 2017. And therein lies a part of the story.For years, Scott worked for trade associations – business lobbying organizations – in Washington, DC, and that’s where we met. He once willed me a cushy job when he took an even cushier one.But Scott got sick of the DC rat race and headed for Nashville…and now he’s a happy man, focused on writing music and performing. He wrote all of the songs on his album, does the vocals, and is a hell of a sax player. You’ll hear a couple samples during the show.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

As a country, we’re in the middle of what’s been dubbed “The Great Resignation,” as millions of workers have either quit their jobs or switched to some other way to earn a livelihood.What’s behind all of this? What can companies do to counter this trend?To explore this important question, our guest today is Brad Smith, founder of Stellar Insights. Brad has spent over 20 years helping companies pursue growth and excellence through coaching, consulting, facilitation, and strategic planning.Now, it seems that with the Great Resignation, those services are perhaps needed more than ever. But it seems like much of the advice Smith offers seems like basic common sense -- such as "be appreciative" and don't screw your workers if you don't want them to leave. Who would ever have thought of that!Brad also offers advice to workers who want to improve their work situation and advance their careers. During the episode, Brad also offers insight into the current round of inflation and suggests steps that could be taken to make things easier for the average American.You'll learn a lot from this interview, whether you're an employer or an employee looking to improve your lifestyle.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 with Karen Igou, who helped lead a week-long event over the Christmas holiday called OccupyBiden, a 24/7 outdoors Climate Justice Occupation within a mile of President Biden’s house in Wilmington, DE.I found this interesting…that such a demonstration would be held targeting Biden, especially considering the harm done by his predecessor, Donald Trump, with his actions that were rooted in the denial of climate change. After all, Biden has been working to reverse many of those actions.However, some 200 demonstrators from 10 states participated in the OccupyBiden event, concerned that the Biden administration is more talk than action when it comes to taking action to counteract the forces of climate change, and they contend that some of Biden's actions actually have been harmful."We are not OK with politics as usual running things," Igou says. "It's not working. We are going in the wrong direction. At least we’re trying to address our crisis. We’re trying to wake people up. We’re trying to get the voices of the people unified to take care of our one and only planet. Our own president has said that we are in a Code Red existential crisis." She adds, "It’s madness. It’s lunacy to destroy the very part of the ecosystem that make it work. No other species has ever done what we’re doing, which is destroying our own home. We’re literally committing ecocide and it’s madness."Igou dedicates her life, and her business, a farm-to-table grocery, to fighting the climate crisis. She suggests many ways during our interview that you can also get involved to save Mother Earth.Photo by Ray Bailey.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today we’re with Jeff Batton, a recovering Evangelical -- in fact, an ex-pastor -- who's now out of the closet and is counseling folks about life, religion, marriages, relationships -- you name it.Batton has lived all around the world…Hong Kong, London, New York City…now Detroit…but grew up on a big farm in South Georgia and claims to be the ambassador of the South. He’s started his own business, been shot, tried to save the world’s poor, and now coaches people on what not to do. He’s worked on the streets, lived in the projects, became a minister, and then quit organized religion. In fact, he says that he had to quit Christianity to find Jesus.Batton wanted it all -- marriage, kids, a happy life. But he struggled, trying to deny his homosexuality. So, he went through a divorce…a big no-no for ministers…and now says he’s a ‘recovering evangelical’. On the show, he says that “religion is politics in drag.” Batton also has written a book, “Grinnin’ Like a Jackass Eatin’ Briars,” and, of course, we talk about that.It's an interesting conversation, to say the least...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

There are signs that Donald Trump is losing the backing of some of his strongest supporters, including disillusioned Capitol rioters and former key staff members who finally realize the damage he's done.At the same time, Attorney General Merrick Garland has hinted that Trump could be in his crosshairs, which suggests that prosecution is a possibility. In addition, several determined Democrats are quietly exploring how Trump could be disqualified constitutionally from holding office again. Stay tuned…Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today our guest is Angie Ringler…she’s a fellow podcaster…has a show called The Grateful Redhead…and is committed to saving our planet from pollution and waste.But Angie does a lot more than just talk and interview people. A paralegal turned hippie soap maker, she founded an eco-conscious business called Waste Free Products. It’s dedicated to reducing single-use plastic from the planet by making 100% plastic-free, zero-waste household & body care products without harsh chemicals.Her company makes a line of products called “Tangie” and she claims that her laundry bars so far have washed hundreds of thousands laundry loads with “waste free detergent”, keeping thousands of plastic laundry bottles out of landfills.And that’s just the laundry stuff. She also has developed all natural body care products, and you'll hear her describe her "tinkle towels." Enough said.Angie calls herself a “redheaded Grateful Dead loving fan,” and on her podcast features people who she says live an impactful life, inspire people, and cause a ripple effect on the planet. She’s big on kindness…in every way. In human relations, certainly, and being kind to our planet.In this episode, we talk with Angie about her determination to do everything she can to save our earth for generations to come, as well as her concerns that we're not moving fast enough to cope with climate change and the impact it will have. Tinkle towels are just a little part of that!Take a listen...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today is January 6, 2022 and just one year ago, an angry, violent mob inspired by Donald Trump attacked the seat of our democracy, the United States Capitol in Washington, DC. There’s a lot to talk about, so stay tuned.”---Waving Trump and Confederate flags, the mob called for Vice President Pence to be hung from the makeshift gallows they had constructed on the Capitol grounds. They broke into the Capitol, smashing windows, and in the end, one protestor and several police officers had lost their lives.Members of the House and Senate scurried to find shelter as members of the mob streamed into the House and Senate chambers, rifling through lawmakers’ desks, and searching for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.Their goal was to stop the certification of President Biden’s election, to overturn the election of the leader who had been chosen by the majority of voters in a free and fair election.Today, President Biden called out Trump for standing by and doing nothing to stop the riot and the destruction. But there is much more to the story.Three blogs today by Chris Waldron and Mark M. Bello of Not Fake News.biz take a look at these events and offer their thoughts about what should happen in the coming months as the January 6th Committee, launched by House Democrats, completes its work and as the Justice Department considers its action.First, I’ll present Waldron’s piece today after Biden’s speech, entitled “Sleepy Joe is Pissed!”, then will come his recounting of what prompted the insurrection and its aftermath in “The Insurrection, One Year Later,” and finally, will come Bello’s commentary, “Time to Hold Trump Accountable.”Take a listen...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

As we mark January 6th, the day just a year ago that Donald Trump’s crazies tried to overturn the election of Joe Biden, our guest is a photojournalist, Chris Carlson, who was with President Bush during another history changing event – the 9-11 attack on the Twin Towers in New York City. Take a listen.As a photojournalist, Chris covered the White House for 38 years for ABC News, so he’s had a close up view of the Reagan, Clinton, the two Bush administrations, Obama and Trump.And, he wrote a book, "9/11 With POTUS" that chronicled covering the first 5 days of 9/11 with President George W. Bush, in the White House Press Pool. Our conversation with Chris covers his experiences on that fateful day as he was on the crew charged with covering Bush as he first learned about the 9/11 attack. Then, it moves to his eyewitness experiences covering other presidents -- Bush 1, Reagan, Clinton, Obama and Trump, with some hilarious insider tales.And then, we move to today's politics and thoughts about the impact of the Obama presidency on the phenomenon of Donald Trump and subsequent events, such as the January 6 insurrection at the Capitol and its aftermath.Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

In April 2015, a mailman concerned about climate change and political corruption decided he needed a dramatic way to bring attention to those issues, which he believes threaten our country, indeed the world.So, he decided that air mail delivery was the only way -- not by just dropping letters to Congress in a mailbox and forgetting about it, but by personally flying those letters to the U.S. Capitol himself.So, he trailered a 250-pound flying contraption called a gyrocopter from Florida to Pennsylvania to stage his one-man protest. He flew 70 miles south from Gettysburg across Maryland, turned left at the Potomac, and two miles up the Capitol Mall, past the White House and past the Washington Monument to land on the lawn of the US Capitol Building.The man’s name is Doug Hughes and he’s here with Lean to The Left today to recount his story, which he has detailed in a memoir, FLIGHT PLAN: A Mailman’s Aerial Excursion and Special Delivery.Hughes succeeded in gaining attention, of course. His exercise of free speech eventually cost him four months in jail, but he doesn't regret that and during our interview offers concrete ideas about how the political system should be changed to eliminate corruption of those we elect to represent us.Listen to our interview.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Today's commentary from NotFakeNews.biz:If Democrats hope to stave off a massive Republican takeover of Congress in the 2022 Congressional elections, they must do whatever it takes to enact key voting rights legislation that so far has been blocked by...wait for it...the GOP.The Donald Trump Republican Party in state after state is changing rules around voting in a deliberate effort to reduce turnout of voters they deem likely to support Democratic candidates. It is a cynical, nasty attack on our democracy and one that could have long lasting impact on America's future.Listen to the complete commentary...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Ever feel like an imposter at work? Like a fake? Like why are you in this position when you know others around you are equally – or better – qualified? I bet that’s a common thought for many of us. Today's guest is Arnie Witkin and we’re going to talk about a topic that many of us have probably dealt with in our careers – the feeling that, somehow, we’re really an imposter – even a fraud. That other people we’re charged with leading probably are better qualified and know more about what we’re supposed to be doing.It's a crazy feeling. I can tell you that, which is why I was intrigued with having Arnie on my show.Arnie’s a speechwriter, public speaking coach mentor, and executive coach, and he says this feeling is fairly common in the workplace -- that it happens to just about everybody, from beginners to big shots in the executive suite.So how do you cope with it? How do you get past it? Is there some sort of stragegy to employ? We’re going to talk about that with Arnie, who is the author of It’s Not A Big Thing In Life: Strategies for Coping, Considerations for My Adult Grandchildren.For the past few years, Arnie has been helping people create coping strategies to deal with career and life struggles. He knows a lot about that, as he’s dealt with cancer multiple times and even lost his voice at one point. That’s got to be tough for somebody who makes his living talking!Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Everybody is feeling the pinch of inflation, and, of course, the Republicans are blaming President Biden, front and center. But a new study shows that many retail businesses are actually using inflation as an excuse to drive up prices and make more money. Once again, it's all about greed and consumers are forced to pay the price.Today we’re with Digital.com’s small business expert, Dennis Consorte. Dennis discusses with us the results of a survey of retail owners and executives Digital.com conducted to discover how inflation is impacting profitability, pricing, and discount offers this shopping season.Shockingly, the survey showed that 56% of retail businesses say inflation has given them the ability to raise prices beyond what’s required to offset higher costs.In other words, they figure consumers know inflation is with us, so they can jack up their prices more than necessary just to boost their bottom lines. Consorte says on the show that some businesses, especially big businesses, are playing on people's fears simply to make shareholders happy.Here are some questions we posed to Consorte:1.Tell us about the study and how it was conducted.2.What were some of the other major conclusions?3.Of those that increased profits beyond inflation to increase profitability, what companies were most likely to do that.4.We know that the prices of cars and technology have been increasing significantly. Are those companies capitalizing on inflation?5.What about retailers?6.Do you see a reduction in discounts and sales this holiday season? Why?7.What industries are most likely to be shrinking discounts? Are they increasing the prices of complimentary products?8.Can you give us an example?9.What tactics are companies using to increase prices besides just jacking up the sticker price?10.What do you think is contributing to all of this? 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 with Josh Sullivan, a Myrtle Beach, SC financial advisor who is working to enhance business owners and professionals by helping them connect. His initiative and his podcast is called The Business Connect.He’s a former college golfer with aspirations to go pro, but now is focusing on his business career and his family.We talk with Josh about these life changes and a new venture that he’s undertaken to help business owners and professionals make the connections they need to flourish. But Josh is more than that. He's dedicated to his community, doing what he can to help others, being a great dad, and no longer focused on becoming a pro golfer chasing fame and fortune.It's an interesting and heart-warming interview, one that is perfect for this Christmas season. Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

In this episode, Karen Hinton, author of the new book, "Penis Politics," reveals her experiences as a Washington, DC insider and how she fended off advances from Bill Clinton, Andrew Cuomo, and others.Hinton is a journalist and former press secretary to Andrew Cuomo and later to New York City Mayor Bill De Blasio. She offers an insider’s view of what it’s like to be a woman in the newsroom, the halls of Congress and the highest reaches of American political power. Hinton describes how powerful men assert control over women in a vulnerable or subordinate position as she discusses Andrew Cuomo’s sexual politics and more. She talks about her relationship with famed Democratic political advisor James Carville and how she confronted him following the Monica Lewinsky accusations against Clinton.She talks about the small, everyday abuses that some men use to magnify their power at home, in school, and in the office and how penis politics negatively impacts girls and women’s view of themselves and their options in life.Women, she says, are “damned if you speak up and damned if you shut up.” Hinton was at the peak of her career in 2018 when a catastrophic brain injury propelled her into the battle of her life. Emerging from a coma, learning to walk, talk and write again, she was determined to “speak up, not shut up” on issues involving women, men and power.In Penis Politics, Hinton writes of the toxic brew of ego, entitlement, and “bro-culture” that is especially difficult for women to navigate in politics. In the book and on our show, she reveals how certain well-known men create a public image as champions of women’s rights and equality, but behind closed doors, they use gender domination to assert their authority. In the beginning of the episode, she reveals how the rape of her friend by a trusted former coach and school official affected her own life choices.We thank Karen for sharing her story with us.Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Would you ever think that someone you see sleeping on the streets would one day end up being an angel investor, a philanthropist? Stay tuned, you’re about to meet that person, Brandolon Barnett, author of "Dreams Deferred: Recession, Struggle, and the Quest for a Better World."He is a facilitator of partnerships for community good. Barnett is head of corporate social responsibility industry solutions in Salesforce.org’s philanthropy cloud and leader of the Democratize Ventures investing and advisory institute. He has promoted development and volunteerism on three continents, led the Bill and Melinda Gates-funded Growfund donor-advised fund effort, and participated in research and consulting engagements at the Council on Foundations and Global Impact.His LinkedIn profile says he’s an Angel Investor through Democratize Ventures, Agent of Change Creating a World where Philanthropy Belongs to Everyone. Showing Social Impact can Happen Anywhere.From 2008 through 2013 Barnett was hit hard by the great recession, struggling to find work, even searching the streets of San Francisco looking for a place to sleep.In the episode, Barnett talks about that and how he came to be involved with corporate philanthropy. Here are some other questions we discussed:1.What is it that you’re doing?2.Are you helping Black entrepreneurs raise money? Training? How?3.Exactly what is Sales Force.org? You are director of Corporate Social Responsibility Industry Solutions there.4.What’s your view regarding progress being made for minority business entrepreneurs?5.What advice to you give these individuals as they embark on their journey?6.How have the experiences of those tough times informed your own work today?7.Has racism in this country worsened or improved in the past few years? 8.What factors have contributed to this?9.Tell us more about your book.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 going to take on a topic that some might consider a little bit daring. We’re going to have a talk with a guy named Jack Kammer, who calls himself “The Counter-Feminist Social Worker.”Jack’s an author and podcaster, among other things, and from the looks of it, he’s all about defending the rights of men and boys against various forms of discrimination.What? You might be saying about now – men being discriminated against in favor of women? It’s really the other way around, buddy. Nevertheless, Jack has made a career of defending men and men’s rights, so I thought it would be interesting to hear what he has to say and figure out where he’s coming from.During the show, Jack answers questions like this:1.What is a counter-feminist, anyway?2.In this era of the #MeToo movement, isn’t this idea that men are the victims a little bit wacky?3.And what about the disparity in income levels, with women earning just 82 percent of what men typically earn for doing the same job? 4.You say there is a “double-whammy of racism and sexism operating against Black men.” What’s that all about?5.Isn’t your view just a touch misogynistic?6.Are you saying women are sexist?7.You talk about female supremacy and its power structure…what’s that about?8.Isn’t this a lot like talking about “White people’s race issues”?9.What’s the Lace Curtain? How did it impact your book Good Will Toward Men?”10.What got you started on this crusade, anyway?11.What kind of a relationship do you have personally with women? Are you married?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Traces of dangerous “forever chemicals” have been found in many water systems across the country, chemicals that come from many common sources but that could be extremely dangerous to our health. Both state officials and the feds are looking into the situation, but activists feel not enough is being done. So, today we’re taking a look at efforts to eliminate these "forever" chemicals from our drinking water. They come from substances that have been used in manufacturing many products – Teflon coating, and carpet, for example -- for years, and that are used in foam to fight fires.The chemicals at issue are per and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or P-FAS, and they have been linked to various cancers, endocrine disruption and other serious and life-threatening health conditions.Our guest in this episode, Cheryl Cail, is one of the leaders of a national coalition that is pushing the federal government, and her home state of South Carolina, to take immediate steps to set mandatory limits of P-FAS and to clean up our drinking water supplies."You just have to know one thing," she says. "This is not something that should be in the water. We should not be consuming it. It needs to be addressed. It needs to not be coming through our tap water. It should not be in the environment so things like using sludge that has high levels of PFAS to put on farm crops, that's going to go into the ground. It's going to go into the food that's grown and by virtue of eating that food, we're going to be ingesting it."To learn more about this serious issue and what you can do, take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

There are increasing numbers of women now running for public office, and that’s a good thing. But what about the consultants who work to get them elected? We’re about to talk with a couple of young progressives who are cracking that glass ceiling.They are Zee Cohen-Sanchez and Amani Wells-Onyioha of the new campaign advisory company, Sole Strategies. We’ll talk about why more women need to be represented in politics –as candidates and as strategists who help them get elected.A woman-owned and run business, Sole Strategies was created to help flip seats across the country and has quickly made an impact on the political landscape, grossing over a million in revenue in its first year. Zee, the company’s founder, and Amani, operations director, have been the engine behind this breakthrough startup and continue to disrupt the status quo of campaigning. Zee is executive director of the firm and has worked on several people-powered campaigns in the last decade, helping flip seats across the county. After Bernie Sanders' 2016 campaign, she committed to helping truly progressive candidates …. who don't accept corporate money … win seats across the nation.Amani is operations director. Her job is to keep the Sole Strategies boat afloat. Working behind the scenes with Zee, she makes sure operations run as smoothly and efficiently as possible.Discovering her passion for politics during her time in undergrad, it’s been Amani’s dream to see progressives get elected throughout the country and see real change in America. They have plenty to say about politics today and the increasing role of women. Check it out.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

It’s the classic conundrum; is the glass half full or half empty? If it’s half full, you are said to be an optimist. If it’s half empty, you’re a pessimist. When it comes to describing the Biden administration, Republicans are always seeing a half empty glass.Check out this commentary by CJ Waldron on https://notfakenews.bizBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Social justice attorney Mark M. Bello, author of the legal thriller Betrayal High, the story of a fictional school shooting, offers ideas on steps that should be taken to eliminate such tragedies as the shooting in Michigan that claimed four lives and now has a 15-year-old boy awaiting trial for murder, and his parents charged with contributing to those murders. Narrations from Bello's commentary at NotFakeNews.biz.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

It’s the holiday season and temptations abound, for many of us playing havoc with our efforts to lose weight and get more healthy. What if you could do that and get paid at the same time? No kidding!Today we welcome David Roddenberry, who will tell us how to actually make money by losing weight. David’s co-founder of HealthyWage, and while they have a year-around program, right now they’re running a holiday-stay strong challenge that sounds pretty cool.HealthyWage is a wellness gamification company … I never knew there was such a thing…that’s already paid pound losers over $6 million in 2021 alone, and $55 million since its inception.How does it work? What’s involved?David answers these questions and more: 1.Is this a contest, or do people get money for every pound they lose?2.Does offering a healthy jackpot actually get people to shirk temptation and lose or maintain their weight?3.How do people weigh-in online?4.How does this work with New Year’s resolutions? 5.Isn’t there some kind of connection with health and fitness expert Jillian Michaels? How does that work?6.Is this for individuals, only, or are their programs at work, etc.?7.If HealthyWage pays out all of this money to pound losers, how do you guys make money?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Ever wonder about whether some of the stuff that’s in the common household products that you use every day might be harmful to your health? Well…some of them are. Stay tuned.Today, we’re with Samuel Goodman, an author, speaker and scientist who uses his education and experience to bring the confluence of science and engineering to important issues of public policy. But today we’re going to talk about common household products and what harmful chemicals and additives consumers need to know about. We thought that would be a good topic to discuss as we’re heading into the holidays and people are considering buying gifts for their families and friends.Some of these things that we’re buying every day contain some fairly harmful additives and Dr. Goodman knows about all of that.So, listen up!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

There’s a war brewing. It’s a battle of ideologies and the trenches are social media. Through various sites, those on the far right are pushing race hatred as they spew outlandish, and often unsubstantiated claims. The aim is to start a race war, writes Chris Waldron of NotFakeNews.biz.Take a listen...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Dr. Kimya Nuru Dennis, founder of 365 Diversity, is an activist, sociologist and criminologist, educator, and researcher who helps businesses, non-profits, schools, and other organizations overcome disparities and improve diversity.In this episode, she discusses such topics as Black male suicide and its causes, racism in the workplace, education, healthcare and other settings, and offers her thoughts regarding what individuals and entities can do to overcome this and improve societal relations.Dr. Dennis pulls no punches in her comments and is worth a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

November 26 was Native American Heritage Day, a time for America to honor and celebrate Native American and Alaska Natives’ countless contributions to our nation, to recognize the wrongs of the past, and make certain that the rights and dignity of our country’s first people are upheld. Thus, there is no better time than now for the Waccamaw Indian People of South Carolina to be officially recognized as a federal Indian tribe, making them eligible for all of the benefits accorded the 574 Tribal Nations in America.It is time for these "invisible" people to take their rightful place among those Tribal Nations and be positioned to benefit from many of the provisions contained in President Biden’s newly signed Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which invests over $3 billion in Native health services among other benefits. Listen to the complete story...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Hey what would you think if you knew your doc had a side hustle? Think that would be a good idea?Dr. John Shufeldt is an emergency physician who advises fellow physicians how to do exactly that -- how to become an entrepreneur and develop a new business while also practicing medicine.In this episode, Dr. Shufeldt explains how, in a time when physician burnout is a big problem, having a side gig can be a good thing for doctors.Dr. Shufeldt is author of Entrepreneur Rx: The Physician’s Guide To Starting A Business. So, he’s encouraging his fellow docs to start a side gig.I want to know from Dr. Shufeldt how having a side gig would, in any way, benefit a doctor’s patients. After all, docs are supposed to be dedicated to helping people heal. How can they do that if they’re worried about their side gig’s bottom line, or some deadline, while they’re doing brain surgery, for example? Dr. Shufeldt answers that question and also discusses these, among others:•Why do you say that being an entrepreneur has made you a better physician?•What leads to physician burnout and how does it affect our healthcare system?•How has COVID added to the burnout problem? •Patients might say they prefer that their doctors focus on caring for them rather than worrying about some side gig. Why are they wrong?•What are some traits that physicians and entrepreneurs have in common, and how do those traits improve patient care?In the episode, Dr. Shufeldt also discusses how discouraging it is for physicians to be faced with treating deathly ill unvaccinated Covid patients, knowing that the "easy fix" of the vaccine could have saved their lives.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

The justice system in America must be fixed. And it won't be until systematic racism is eliminated from law enforcement and the courts. Listen to this commentary written by CJ Waldron at https://NotFakeNews.biz about the Kyle Rittenhouse and Ahmaud Arbery trials as narrated by Bob Gatty.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Are you a veteran? Have interesting stories that you could share for posterity? Know a veteran who you’d like to honor? Take a listen and find out how.We’re delighted to present Monica Mohindra, acting director of the Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC.We’re a little late for Veterans Day, but then we need to be celebrating and honoring our veterans every day of the year.Monica is the wife of a Navy veteran who comes from a long line of veterans and is dedicated to sharing – and preserving for future generations – the stories of those who have served in our military – including women.Women have served in uniform in all branches of the U.S. military since World War II. From nurses, to code breakers, to pilots, to surgeons, to mechanics, to frontline warriors and everything in between, women veterans have done it all.In this episode, Monica explains:* What the Veterans History Project is all about* What's included there now* How you can contribute* Why it's important to share these stories* How to view and learn from the Veterans History Project* How it helps families and those suffering from PTSDTake a listen...In the photo: Four soldiers and flags during a ceremony honoring a fallen soldier. August 25, 2004. Lee Lane Collection, Veterans History Project, Library of Congress, AFC2001/001/47372.ViAlP7kwDCYwH4hmgHSVBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

In typical Republican fashion, the current run-up in inflation is being met with glee as some of their most cynical and irresponsible politicians are gloating that Americans' concerns about higher prices for food and gas are "a gold mine for us."Listen to the podcast:Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Gas prices…you think they’re high now? Just wait. Energy expert Jack Kerfoot predicts a national average price of $5 per gallon before too long. But then, he says, things will get better and action by President Biden and largely the Democrats will help.Congress has finally passed major infrastructure legislation and with its significant provisions to attack climate change, it’s been signed into law.The White House says the plan will “strengthen our nation’s resilience to extreme weather and climate change while reducing greenhouse gas emissions, expanding access to clean drinking water, building up a clean power grid, and more.”Meanwhile, a second bill, the so-called social spending and climate reconciliation bill, still faces a challenge in the Senate, with stubborn opposition from Sen. Joe Manchin, the West Virginia Democrat, who’s opposed virtually every proposed provision that would impact the coal industry.Today, we’re with Jack Kerfoot, an energy expert who’s been our guest a couple of times on the topic of renewable energy and climate change. He’s a scientist, energy expert and author of "FUELING AMERICA: An Insider's Journey." He is the principal at JL Energy Services and blogs on his website, Our Energy Conundrum, at www.jackkerfoot.com, most recently tracking states and what they are doing to attack climate change.Kerfoot predicts $5 per gallon gasoline within a year, but predicts those prices will decline as electric vehicles become mainstream reducing the demand for oil. The future for the U.S., he says, is bright as renewable energy sources replace fossil fuel and reduce harmful greenhouse gases.If you care about climate change, our environment, and the future, take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

If you're waiting for Washington to fix healthcare in this country, healthcare entrepreneur and innovator Jeff Margolis has this advice: Don't bother.Appearing on the latest episode of The Lean to the Left Podcast, Margolis discusses how information technology, innovation, and personal responsibility can all come together and result in a better, more equitable, and less costly healthcare system for America.Over his 30-year career, Margolis is known for successfully applying technologies to address the complex problems facing the healthcare industry. He was involved in developing language about health improvement for individuals that eventually was included in the Affordable Care Act.He’s also the Forbes Books author of “Not Just in Sickness … But Also in Health: Moving Beyond Sickcare to Health Optimization for All.”During the podcast, Margolis answers these questions:How would you sum up the way healthcare is handled in the U.S.?Does it matter that the current political divide may keep the Biden administration from passing any significant healthcare legislation? Why or why not?In what ways has COVID-19 revealed the problems with our system?You say that it’s possible to improve our healthcare system and at the same time reduce costs. What steps need to be taken to accomplish that?It's Medicare Open Enrollment period. Which is better for most people -- traditional Medicare or Medicare Advantage? Why?What are some of the inequities in healthcare and how can they be addressed?What can individuals do to help improve the healthcare system?Take a listen:Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

The Medicare open enrollment period ends on December 7, so if you’re a senior and on Medicare, you should listen up:Thanks for joining us today on the Lean to the Left podcast.If you’re a senior wondering what to do about supplemental Medicare coverage, that’s the topic of today’s program. It can be a confusing decision with so many different offerings and options, so its important to have the facts.So, for help, we’re turning to Chris Orestis, president of Retirement Genius, an expert on financial health, long term care, and retirement issues. He’s author of two books, “Help on the Way” and “A Survival Guide to Aging” and has a third book, “Retire Like a Genius” on the way. He’s been speaking for two-decades across the country about senior finance and the secrets to aging with financial and physical health and dignity.Take a listen, either for yourself, or to pass on to your loved ones who might need help.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

In this episode, Not Fake News writer Chris Waldron imagines a nightmare 2024 scenario, with Donald Trump's election defeat leading to a Constitutional crisis for America. It's downright scary. Narrated by Bob Gatty.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Finally, the House of Representatives has passed the sweeping infrastructure bill promised by President Biden, and nutcase GOP Rep. Marjory Taylor Greene (MTG) of Georgia says it's all part of "Biden's Communist takeover of America." Greene needs to be sent to the looney bin, but in the meantime she might want to listen to this episode of The Lean to the Left Podcast, which features a young American Communist who talks about what Communism is all about and what it would involve for the U.S. She might actually learn something, if that is possible.Our guest is Jamarr Jabari, a 29-year-old member of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, or the Communist party in the United States, and he talks about his hopes for social revolution in the U.S. Jabari, who subscribes to the idea that capitalism should be replaced with full-fledged socialism in the United States and that private home and land ownership should be eliminated, is a passionate community organizer and committed to pushing for sweeping governmental policies that will benefit the average working person, rather than the well-to-do.In our interview, Jabari pulls no punches. He says both the Democratic and Republican parties simply sell out to powerful corporate interests, although he agrees that Democratic policies and actions generally are preferred over the Republicans'He hosts a podcast called the Jabari VOC Podcast and his Facebook page says he’s a Marxist, Leninist, and PanAfricanist. He calls people Comrade on his podcast. So, I guess that proves he's a Communist. If you are curious about the ideas, goals, and plans of those who would eliminate the capitalistic system in the U.S., take a listen to this interview. It will be more informative than listening to the wacko comments from MTG.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Will national Democrats, shocked by their repudiation in Virginia and even New Jersey, stop bickering, show some spine, and get President Biden's Build Back Better social safety net spending program through Congress?Based on the first analyses from the June 2 elections for governor in those states, which went to Biden in 2020, they damn well better give the people what they voted for when they elected Biden.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

National Democrats are frittering away a huge opportunity to provide the American people with the social improvements for which they voted when they elected Joe Biden, and worse, they are opening the door to a return of Donald Trump and his GOP.Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Karen Martinez is not rich or famous. She’s not a political expert, nor is she a best-selling author, or TV star.But Karen Martinez is a truly special human being, and that is why she is our guest on this episode of The Lean to the Left Podcast.For many years, Karen has been a foster mom, taking care of other peoples’ kids she’s worked with the biological parents of those kids, too, so they could finally care for their children themselves. And she did this while holding down a fulltime job and being a mom and a wife in her own life.But one day things changed for Karen and her husband. They adopted one of their foster children as their own, and now they are fulltime parents once again. Fostering, however, apparently is in Karen’s DNA because she’s at it again. Only this time, it’s for dogs.Here’s the story. Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

It’s Halloween time, and it’s important to make certain our kids are safe when they go out trick or treating. But certainly, every day is that time, because as parents we must protect our kids from those who would do them harm -- like sexual predators and bullies. Today, we’re with Bob Kahn, a retired deputy sheriff in Nevada and former elementary school teacher who has authored eight children’s books about safety in an increasingly dangerous world. The “Stranger Danger” program he created for schools and community service organizations has been credited in foiling over 40 attempted abductions by strangers. We’re going explore issues of “good touch, bad touch” and what that’s all about, and we’re going to take a look at the ever serious problem of bullying.Robert has given over 20,000 presentations covering 15 topics on children’s safety issues. He also was an instructor for D.A.R.E., a program that gives children the life skills they need to avoid involvement with drugs, gangs, and violence. He holds a master’s degree in education from the University of Phoenix and a B.S. in education from the University of Nevada, Reno.Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

If President Biden and Democrats in Congress have any hope of enacting comprehensive, meaningful voting rights legislation, they have no choice but to end the filibuster. It's time for Democrats to stop pussyfooting around and play some hardball.Last week Republicans blocked action for the third time this year on voting rights legislation, making it clear that unless the filibuster is killed, there will be zero chance of passing the Freedom to Vote Act, intended to counter imposition of new voting restrictions in GOP states in response to Donald Trump's "Big Lie" that the 2020 election was "stolen" from him.Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

It’s almost World Series time and the playoffs are still going on, so we’re going to talk a little ball today. Yep…that’s right…baseball.Our guest is Jordan Skopp, who among other things is leading a fight to get rid of a longtime baseball rule that prevents fans who are injured by batted balls to receive compensation in court, no matter how badly they are hurt.Well, you might say, that fans are accepting the risk when they buy those tickets so they can have the best view or have a great chance of getting a ball for a souvenir. I do!But Jordan thinks it’s wrong that fans can’t sue for damages if they are hurt, and he’s leading a drive called Foul Ball Safety Now and is writing a book on the topic.Take a listen...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

As President Biden seeks to reverse actions by the Trump administration that jeopardized America's fight against the consequences of climate change, one powerful member of his own party is throwing up roadblocks that could be equally devastating.The principal opponent of a major piece of Biden's climate agenda is Sen Joe Manchin III, the West Virginia Democrat who is determined to protect coal miners and the coal industry, regardless of its impact on the environment and the industry's contributions to greenhouse gases, a major factor in climate change.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 with Sandy Phillips Kirkham, who when she was 17 years old, was raped by her pastor, a young, married man who callously took advantage of her admiration of him, and desire for his attention. His name was Jeff Coulier.The first time took place in the pastor’s house, in his bed, and that is how she lost her virginity.She had given this “man of God” her trust and he violated that trust, just as he violated her. And he was worried about washing the bloody sheets before his wife came home. That was just the beginning of Sandy’s trauma of betrayal.After many years, Sandy decided it was time to confront that past if she was to heal. She writes, “With the healing came my need and passion to speak out about clergy abuse.” She works with The Hope of Survivors ministry and is on the board of the Council on Child Abuse. She’s spoken to many groups and churches on the topic of prevention and has met several courageous survivors. And so, she wrote a wonderful, riveting book in which she tells her story. It’s a story of lies, manipulation, coercion, and abuse, but it’s also a story of courage, resilience, and bravery. The name of her book is “Let Me Prey Upon You.”Sandy, thanks for joining us today on Lean to the Left.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

When you spread misinformation that results in the deaths of hundreds of thousands, why isn’t that a crime? When you attempt to overthrow a legitimately elected president, why aren’t you held accountable?In any other country, writes Not Fake News' CJ Waldron, you would be prosecuted to the full extent of the law, yet in these United States you are more likely to face much harsher punishment for selling loose cigarettes or trying to pass off a phony twenty dollar bill. Instead of a slap on the wrist, or in some cases, a pat on the back, these individuals need to face the harsh penalties that befit their actions. They need to be charged with war crimes.Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Despite the clear evidence that Donald John Trump tried to engineer a coup to overturn President Biden's election, Republicans continue their obeisance to the disgraced former president -- even those who just wish he would go away.The Hill reported today that most Senate Republicans do not want Trump to run again for the presidency. But not surprisingly, their reasons are purely political and have little or nothing to do with Trump's inciting the January 6th insurrection, or his effort to bully his own Justice Department into aiding and abetting his attempted coup.None of that, apparently, matters. Their only concern is Trump's potential impact on their own political futures.Listen to the whole story...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

You have homeowner’s insurance and a hurricane hits. The winds and rains come. There is damage to your home. But you know the storm will blow over and you have coverage, so no worries, right?You could be very wrong.Today Mark Bello and I are with William F. “Chip” Merlin, Jr., founder and president of the Merlin Law Group.Chip has dedicated his practice to representing insurance policyholders in disputes with insurance companies nationwide.Chip was noted as the “Babe Ruth of Hurricane lawyers” in the Asbury Park Press for his work on behalf of 23 municipalities and hundreds of policyholders following Superstorm Sandy. The Tampa Bay Times dubbed him “the Master of Disaster” for his nationwide catastrophe work and helping policy holders following Hurricane Katrina.Chip also is the author of the book entitled “Pay UP! – Preventing a Disaster with Your Own Insurance Company.” His motto is “Justice for Policyholders,” as he and his firm work to help people get the recovery they deserve from bad faith insurance companies.So, today Mark Bello and I will talk with Chip about being prepared to fight with your insurance company after a disaster.Chip, I hope it never comes to that, but can you set the stage for us a little bit?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

How do you feel about all of those online ads that pop up whenever you’re online or on social media? Are they helpful? Are they intrusive? Are they generally just a nuisance? Do they make you want to toss your phone against the wall?Do you feel like they’re invading your privacy? One minute you’re searching for info on a new blender and a half hour later ads for blenders pop up when you’re reading the news online. How does that happen?Dr. Don Vaughn, who is with us today, is head of product at a digital information company called Invisibly, and he’s got the answers. They’ve just done a survey about consumer attitudes about these issues, so I figured he’d be the go-to source to help us understand all of this…and how we unwittingly contribute to this advertising trend.Plus, he says that Invisibly has come up with a way for regular people like you and me to make money from these ads. Really?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

The U.S. Supreme Court has just launched its new term and thanks to the defeated and twice impeached former president Donald Trump, our country could be in big trouble.Trump stacked the court with three right-wing justices, giving conservatives a 6-3 majority, and now they are in a position to set a very difficult, and in my view, harmful course for the future.Mark M. Bello, host of the Justice Counts podcast and author of a gripping series of legal thrillers ripped from the headlines, outlines all of this in a new blog on Not Fake News.biz.Here’s Mark with his commentary. Take a listen.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.