30 JUN 2024 · Welcome to the Lean to the Left podcast featuring the Dixie Dems! In this episode, hosts Bob Gatty, Arthur Hill from North Carolina, and Robert Thompson from Georgia discuss politics with special guest, former presidential candidate Jason Palmer. A successful venture capitalist, Palmer says President Biden should be replaced by a younger candidate and shares insights on his new initiative, Together!, developed to reduce political polarization and empower young voters. The discussion delves into the goals of registering a million young voters, endorsing 20 bipartisan candidates, and tackling legislative issues across key battleground states. The conversation also covers the political landscape in North Carolina, Georgia, and South Carolina. Tune in for an engaging dialogue on the future of American politics and how young voters can shape it. 00:00 Welcome to the Lean to the Left Podcast 00:40 Introducing Special Guest Jason Palmer 01:28 The Mission of Together! 05:43 Challenges and Strategies for Youth Engagement 07:52 Fundraising and Support for Together! 16:02 Debate Reactions and Political Commentary 20:50 A Call for New Democratic Leadership 21:23 The Case for Alternative Candidates 21:56 The Time for Change is Now 23:03 The Role of Party Apparatus 

24 JUN 2024 · In this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, we delve into ageism and its impacts on society, especially in the context of the criticism faced by President Joe Biden due to his age. Host Bob interviews Dr. Gail C. Christopher, Executive Director of the National Collaborative for Health Equity, who highlights the prevalence and dangers of ageism. Dr. Christopher discusses her work against various forms of discrimination, including ageism, and emphasizes the need for a cultural shift to respect and value the elderly. She also touches on how media, politics, and societal norms contribute to youth idolatry and disrespect for older individuals. The conversation further explores the economic and social challenges faced by the aging population, with insights into Dr. Christopher’s book, 'Rx Racial Healing,' and her advocacy for a national strategy to address these crucial issues. 00:00 Introduction to Lean to the Left Podcast 00:08 Ageism in Politics: Biden vs. Trump 01:01 Introducing Dr. Gail C. Christopher01:58 The Impact of Ageism 04:36 Cultural Perspectives on Aging 06:46 Strategies to Combat Ageism 08:22 Personal Experiences with Discrimination 09:14 Media's Role in Perpetuating Ageism 10:34 The Importance of Respect and Empathy 17:50 Economic and Policy Issues for the Elderly 31:00 Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation 34:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

19 JUN 2024 · Join us as we discuss critical threats facing America's rivers, from the recent Supreme Court decision impacting the Clean Water Act to ongoing pressures like climate change and development. Representatives from American Rivers Organization, Winyah Rivers Alliance, Idle No More South Carolina, and South Carolina Coastal Conservation League delve into the 10 most endangered rivers of 2023 and emphasize the importance of protecting the Little Pee Dee River. Learn about the significance of these rivers, the impacts of highway development, and what individuals can do to help. Also, discover ways to advocate for stronger environmental protections and get involved in conservation efforts. 00:00 Supreme Court Ruling and Its Impact on Wetlands 00:51 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests02:06 National Perspective on Water Protection 03:24 Overview of the Most Endangered Rivers Program 06:38 The Importance of the Little Pee Dee River 11:46 Threats from Development and Interstate 73 15:52 How Individuals Can Protect Our Rivers 22:32 The Role of Elections in Environmental Protection 34:38 Waccamaw Indian People's Connection to the River 39:49 How to Support River Conservation Efforts 44:46 Closing Remarks and Resources

15 JUN 2024 · Welcome to the 'Lean to the Left' podcast! In this episode, host Bob Gatty interviews Peter Sacks, author of 'Libertyland', a gripping thriller that explores themes of individualism and political conspiracy reminiscent of January 6th. Sacks discusses his inspiration, his background in economics and journalism, and his transition from nonfiction to fiction writing. They delve into current political issues, the influence of Ayn Rand's ideology, and the potential future of American democracy. Peter also talks about his previous award-winning works and his views on the intersection of politics, economics, and education in the United States. An engaging conversation about literature, politics, and society. Bonus: In this episode, at about 8:00 minutes in, an uninvited guest appears. Can you tell me who/what makes his appearance?  00:00 Welcome to Lean to the Left Podcast00:08 Introducing Peter Sacks and Libertyland 01:58 Peter Sacks' Background and Career 03:48 The Inspiration Behind Libertyland08:05 Themes and Philosophical Insights in Libertyland 11:38 From Nonfiction to Fiction: Peter's Journey 15:20 Political Reflections and Current Events 18:05 The State of American Politics 20:02 The Threat of Trump and MAGA Movemen t30:07 Concluding Thoughts and Where to Find Libertyland

9 JUN 2024 · In this powerful and touching episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, Sarah Cart, a journalist, wife, and mother of four, shares her heartfelt journey of becoming her husband's caregiver when he needed a heart transplant. Sarah reflects on the emotional and physical challenges, the support from her community, and the importance of faith, grit, and grace. She provides valuable advice for other caregivers and emphasizes the significance of organ donation. Through her story, listeners are offered a glimpse of love, resilience, and the miracles that arise from the darkest times. 00:00 Introduction to Caregiving 00:20 Sarah's Story: Becoming a Caregiver 00::39 The Memoir: On My Way Back to You 02:16 The First Signs of Illness 05:16 The Impact of COVID-19 07:36 Ben's Career and Forced Retirement 08:54 Coping Mechanisms and Meditation 10:25 The Heart Transplant Journey 14:36 Post-Transplant Challenges 19:20 Advice for Caregivers 20:10 Community Support and Gratitude 28:43 Final Thoughts and Organ Donation

5 JUN 2024 · In this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, Democratic candidate Mel Hyman outlines his campaign for South Carolina's solidly Republican 7th congressional district. With a focus on Common Sense for the Common Good, Hyman aims to unseat one-term incumbent Russell Frye. The discussion spans a wide range of topics, including jobs, healthcare, education, reproductive rights, and the environment. Hyman shares his history as a public school and university teacher, his blue-collar work experience, and his critical views on Donald Trump, especially in light of recent criminal charges. The conversation also delves into immigration reform, gun control, campaign finance reform, social security, Medicare, and climate change. Hyman emphasizes the need for significant legislative efforts to protect democracy and improve the lives of working families. He ends the interview by advocating for a children's bill of rights and making education more affordable while highlighting the importance of returning to civility in political discourse. 00:00 Introduction to Mel Hyman's Campaign 00:38 Mel Hyman's Background and Values 01:27 Thoughts on Donald Trump and His Legal Issues 04:31 The Threat of Another Trump Administration 06:05 Economic Improvements Under Biden 09:06 Abortion and Reproductive Rights 11:53 Gun Control and School Safety 14:45 Immigration Policy and Challenges 18:47 Campaign Finance Reform 21:11 Social Security and Medicare 26:32 Environmental Protection and Climate Change 29:56 Children's Bill of Rights and Education 33:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

3 JUN 2024 · Explore the insightful analysis of veteran diplomat Stuart E. Eizenstat on ending Wars in Gaza & Ukraine as he shares the keys to peace and diplomacy from his long experience as an international negotiator. In this episode, we speak with Ambassador Eisenstadt about his latest book, which includes interviews with dozens of U.S. and global leaders such as Presidents Clinton, Carter, and others. Eisenstat offers reflections on key diplomatic skills, current geopolitical issues like the Ukraine War and Gaza conflict, and provides advice for U.S. military strategy. He also shares personal anecdotes and insights from his extensive negotiations experience, including his work on Holocaust issues and economic peace processes. Eizenstat said the eventual resolution of the Ukraine conflict will hinge on a strategic stalemate on the battlefield.  "This war in Ukraine will ultimately end when both sides believe they can't get anything further on the battlefield in terms of their political goals," he said. Eizenstat advocated for the U.S. to continue providing critical military aid to Ukraine, comparing the potential outcomes to the armistice that concluded the Korean War, rather than a direct peace agreement. The long time diplomat said the US. must "give Israel the means to defeat and disable Hamas as a governing and military structure, But, we have to also, as the administration is trying to do, combine diplomacy with military force." Eizenstat cautioned that Hamas will not be defeated alone by military force. and that the US. must "look at Gaza as part of a broader conflict. And that broader regional conflict involves Iran on the one hand, which has been the military supplier for Hamas, with its so called, and they call it this, their axis of resistance with Hamas, with Hezbollah, with the Houthis, with Syria." 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:32 Purpose of the Book 01:40 Key Skills for Successful Diplomacy 03:01 Stamina in Diplomacy 04:36 Lessons from Past Negotiations 04:58 Ukraine Conflict and U.S. Military Role 10:26 Gaza Conflict and Diplomatic Strategies 15:51 Holocaust Negotiations and Personal Reflections 16:42 Trump's Foreign Policy and Biden's Age 21:28 Importance of U.S. International Engagement 22:27 Personal Anecdotes and Conclusion

30 MAY 2024 · Join the Dixie Dams—Arthur Hill, Robert Thompson, and the host from South Carolina—as they dive into current political issues on the Lean to the Left podcast. The episode covers a range of hot topics including Trump's New York hush money trial, a new initiative to energize young voters called TOGETHER!, Supreme Court decisions on gerrymandering and other impactful rulings, and heated debates over DEI funding. Discussions also address the controversies surrounding political figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene and analyze the changing political landscapes in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. Whether it's local legislation on masks and development or national electoral implications, this episode provides an in-depth look at America's political atmosphere. 00:00 Welcome to the Lean to the Left Podcast 01:29 Diving into the Trump Hush Money Trial 04:09 Political Climate and Voter Sentiments 09:00 Nationwide Initiative to Unite and Mobilize Young Voters 10:47 The Curious Case of RFK Jr.'s Brain Worm 12:54 Supreme Court's Controversial Decision on Gerrymandering 16:46 State Politics: Mask Laws and DEI Funding 32:35 Election Integrity and the Fulton County Court Clerk Race

26 MAY 2024 · In this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, we delve into the critical issue of teenage depression and the alarming rates of youth suicide. Host Bob Gatty welcomes Dr. Scott Kolbaba, an Internal Medicine Physician from Chicago, who shares his poignant experiences and insights. Dr. Kolbaba, an Amazon bestselling author, highlights his children's book 'Clara's Magic Garden,' which addresses themes of depression and self-worth. Through powerful anecdotes and a deep understanding of mental health, Dr. Kolbaba explores the importance of finding purpose as a potential solution to combating teenage depression. He also discusses the role of parents and significant others in identifying and nurturing the passions of young people to help them overcome depression. Don't miss this compelling conversation that offers hope and actionable advice for parents and caregivers. 00:00 Introduction to Teenage Depression and Suicide Rates 00:31 Dr. Kolbaba's Journey and Insights on Teenage Depression 02:53 The Power of Purpose: Dr. Kolbaba's Approach to Battling Depression 07:49 Personal Stories and the Impact of Finding Purpose 14:39 Adoption Stories and Addressing Bullying 19:12 Advice for Parents on Recognizing and Addressing Depression 22:14 The Role of Schools and Society in Supporting Mental Health 25:55 Exploring Miraculous Experiences: Physicians Untold Stories 28:48 Closing Thoughts and the Importance of Purpo 

23 MAY 2024 · Bringing Civility and Innovation to Politics: Together's Vision for the Future Lean to the Left podcast hosts an insightful discussion with Jason Palmer, Debra Perry Piscione, and Kwame Jackson, co-founders of Together, a new organization aimed at reducing political polarization by mobilizing young voters and endorsing a new generation of leaders. Aiming for inclusivity, civility, and entrepreneurship, Together seeks to transform American politics by endorsing candidates who represent common sense and bipartisan values. The podcast delves into the founders' backgrounds, the mission and structure of Together, and their plans to engage and rally young Americans for a profound political impact. The Timeline: 00:00 Introduction to Lean to the Left Podcast and Jason Palmer's Political Journey 01:05 Launching 'Together': A New Organization for Political Change 01:47 Meet the Co-Founders: Their Roles and Visions for 'Together' 07:29 Jason Palmer's Reflections on His Presidential Run and Future Plans 08:57 'Together's' Strategy: Endorsing Candidates and Mobilizing Young Voters 14:11 Addressing Political Divisions and Fostering Civility 20:45 'Together's' Approach to Political Issues and Candidate Endorsements