Progressive Voices

'BradCast' 6/11/2026: Trump Policies Imperil Social Security Trust Fund by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 6/11/2026 by Progressive Voices

Trumped Up Tomatoes Cost 40% More Tomatoes are about to get a lot more expensive, and most Americans have no idea why. This week, I retreat to the kitchen to make a comforting vegan tomato soup, but even there, politics has a way of finding us. The biggest inflation story in food right now isn't beef, eggs, or milk—it's tomatoes. Prices are rising fast, and policy decisions could make them climb even higher. So while we chop, stir, blend, and cook, we'll also talk about the real-world impact of politics on your grocery bill, along with the latest headlines from entertainment, current events, and the never-ending news cycle. Sometimes the best way to survive a chaotic week is with a warm bowl of soup and an honest conversation.

'BradCast' 6/10/2026: Maine Dems Elect Platner in Landslide; Primary results from ND, NV, SC, ME by Progressive Voices

The Student Debt Crisis Center takes over the airwaves of 'the Leslie Marshall Show,' where they cover all of the changes happening on July 1st due to last years OBBBA bill and what the 7.5 million folks who are on the SAVE plan should do now that it is ending and formal notices will go out starting July 1st.  They also detail new lending limits for both students and parents. This episode's SDCC hosts are President and Founder, Natalia Abrams, Executive Director, Sabrina Cereceres, Lead Borrower Strategist, Sabrina Calazans, and Ryan Coryea, Policy and Communications Intern. The Student Debt Crisis Center (SDCC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that centers the needs and voices of borrowers, and partners with allies, to impact public policy and end the student debt crisis. The SDCC website is www.StudentDebtCrisis.org and their handle on X, Instagram and Facebook is @DebtCrisisOrg. Their handle on BlueSky is @debtcrisisorg.bsky.social. 

Outrage Is America's Favorite Addiction A simple Pride Month post from HelloFresh sparked outrage, boycotts, angry comments, and endless social media debates. But the real story isn't HelloFresh. It's why so many people seem permanently angry about everything. Why does a Pride post generate thousands of comments demanding a “Straight Pride Month”? Why are immigrants, LGBTQ people, trans people, teachers, homeless people, and other vulnerable groups constantly blamed for problems they didn't create? Somewhere along the way, outrage became an industry. Politicians profit from it. Media outlets profit from it. Influencers profit from it. Entire movements are built around convincing people that someone else is responsible for their frustrations. From Pride Month backlash to election conspiracies to culture-war outrage, we're living in an era where anger often replaces understanding and blame replaces accountability. In this episode, Karel examines the growing culture of grievance, victimhood politics, and why some people seem determined to stay angry no matter what issue dominates the headlines. A

This time on Code WACK! What happens when we get too sick to work in a healthcare system that is tied to our jobs? What is the ultimate cost? The story of New York Health Act advocate Mariana Pineda is a case in point. After developing Long COVID, Mariana spent years navigating the same fragmented healthcare system she was fighting to change. She lost her job. She lost her health insurance. She lost her home. And earlier this year, in March, 2026, she lost her life. Mariana was just 46 years old. This is part two of a two-part series featuring tri-chair of the New York State Poor People's Campaign Susan Karbiner and LGBTQ and healthcare justice advocate Carly Paris. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more! And please keep Code WACK! on the air with a tax-deductible donation at heal-ca.org/donate.

'BradCast' 6/9/2026: Corporate Donors to Trump's Ballroom Win $50B in New Govt Contracts by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 6/9/2026 by Progressive Voices

The HelloFresh Controversy Reveals A Bigger Problem A Pride Month social media post from HelloFresh has sparked outrage, backlash, boycotts, and endless debate. Was it a bad joke? Probably. But the reaction to it may reveal something much bigger about where we are as a society in 2026. After spending 30 minutes discussing the controversy on GB News in the UK, one thing became clear: the conversation isn't really about HelloFresh. It's about LGBTQ visibility, Pride Month, and why so many people are still uncomfortable when queer people are included in mainstream culture. Meanwhile, Elon Musk and Donald Trump continue to push claims and conspiracies that dominate headlines. But are Americans still listening? Why is every election called “rigged” when one side loses and “fair” when the other side wins? And a new poll raises a troubling question: Is American exceptionalism fading? Fewer Americans than ever believe the United States stands above the rest of the world. What happened to the confidence that once defined the country, and what does it say about our future? In this episode, Karel connects the dots between culture wars, political outrage, conspiracy thinking, and a changing America struggling to define itself.

The guest host for today's show is Brad Bannon. Brad runs Bannon Communications Research, a polling, message development and media firm which helps labor unions, progressive issue groups and Democratic candidates win public affairs and political campaigns. His show, 'Deadline D.C. with Brad Bannon,' airs every Monday from 3-4pm ET.  Brad is first joined by Ken Vogel, a reporter based in the Washington bureau of The New York Times, investigating the intersection of money, politics and influence. The two discuss Ken's new explosive investigative piece revealing how big tobacco gave a Trump Super PAC $5 million dollars, and just five days later, the FDA cleared flavored vapes. (article link: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/20/us/politics/donation-big-tobacco-vaping.html?unlocked_article_code=1.kFA.hbVQ.Tezpj9lnIlR2&smid=url-share) Then, Brad is joined by Ethan Rome, National Director of the Emergency Campaign to Support Higher Education. The pair discusses the campaign's work to defend the autonomy of colleges  and universities, protect vital life-saving research that is an engine of our local economies, and make higher education a public good that is accessible, affordable, and relevant to all people,  including working families. They also discuss the Trump administration's attacks against diversity in college, as well as the threats from ICE on campuses across the country. The website for Ethan's organization is www.emergencycampaign.org. Brad is on the National Journal's panel of political insiders, is an American political analyst for The Times of India TV, and is a national political analyst for WGN TV and Radio in Chicago and KNX Radio in Los Angeles. Brad also writes a political column every Sunday for 'The Hill.' You can read his columns at www.MuckRack.com/Brad-Bannon. His handle on BlueSky is @bradbannon.bsky.social. (Image Credit: Stephanie Keith/Getty Images)

'BradCast' 6/8/2026: Trump Rails Against CA Elections, Presents No Evidence of Fraud by Progressive Voices

The Great Disconnect: Record Wealth, Record Hardship The economy is supposedly thriving. The stock market is breaking records. Corporate profits are soaring. Yet millions of Americans are struggling to pay rent, buy groceries, fill up their gas tanks, and save for the future. How can oil companies post enormous profits while gas prices remain painfully high? Why are food giants reporting strong earnings while grocery bills continue to climb? Why are hotels charging resort fees and parking fees on top of already expensive rooms? And how did a modest California home that once sold for $27,000 end up costing nearly $900,000? Meanwhile, political rhetoric grows more disconnected from reality. Claims of election fraud, accusations of rigged systems, and endless partisan battles leave many wondering whether common sense has completely disappeared from public life. In this episode, Karel takes a hard look at the contradictions defining modern America: record corporate profits, record asset values, and record financial anxiety for everyday people. Has the world stopped making sense, or are we finally paying attention to how the system really works? Join the conversation and tell us what you think in the comments below. Support independent media: Patreon: patreon.com/reallykarel Watch and subscribe: YouTube: youtube.com/reallykarel Listen everywhere: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Spreaker, and all major podcast platforms. The Karel Show streams LIVE Monday through Thursday at 10:30 AM Pacific. Karel is a history-making broadcaster, entertainer, journalist, and commentator broadcasting from Las Vegas alongside his faithful service dog, Ember. #Economy,#Inflation,#CostOfLiving,#GasPrices,#HousingCrisis,#CorporateGreed,#CorporateProfits,#StockMarket,#Rent,#FoodPrices,#MiddleClass,#WorkingClass,#AmericanEconomy,#EconomicReality,#FinancialStress,#WealthGap,#IncomeInequality,#Politics,#CurrentEvents,#NewsCommentary,#KarelShow,#ReallyKarel,#IndependentMedia,#Commentary,#PoliticalDiscussion,#EconomicCrisis,#America,#LifeInAmerica,#YouTubePolitics,#Podcast https://youtube.com/live/x7px5_nIyo0

'BradCast' 6/4/2026: J6er Says No to Trump's 'Weaponization' Slush Fund Money by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 6/4/2026 by Progressive Voices

400+ Anti-LGBTQ Bills: Why Pride Matters More Than Ever | This Gay Week As Pride Month begins, LGBTQ people around the world are asking the same question: Are things getting better—or getting worse? This week on This Gay Week, Karel welcomes Scott Jacobsen of The Good Men Project for a wide-ranging conversation on the most important LGBTQ stories making headlines across the globe. Topics include:

'BradCast' 6/3/2026: Corrupt, Partisan SCOTUS Ends All Claim to Legitimacy with Mid-Election Alabama Ruling; Primary election results by Progressive Voices

This is the story of a dedicated advocate, organizer, and powerful voice in the fight for healthcare justice - Mariana Pineda. Mariana was a teacher in the Roosevelt School District, Nassau County, Long Island, until she caught a serious case of COVID complicated by pre-existing conditions, including asthma and heart problems. No longer able to work, she lost her employer-sponsored health insurance. Desperate to have some kind of coverage, she spent down her savings on COBRA. Despite financial help from friends, Mariana eventually ended up in a homeless shelter with her young son, Max, where they suffered from cockroaches and bedbugs. Yet through it all, Mariana never stopped advocating for people's rights. A social justice activist and tireless organizer, she could command a rally one minute and spend the next making sure everyone had something to eat. And before she died earlier this year at age 46… she spent years fighting for healthcare as a human right. This is part one of a two-part series about Mariana Pineda, single mom, teacher, and healthcare justice fighter. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more! And please keep Code WACK! on the air with a tax-deductible donation at heal-ca.org/donate.

My Biggest Fear for the Rest of 2026 Isn't Politics The political world was focused on Tuesday's major primary elections, and for good reason. The results could offer an early glimpse into what may become the most important midterm election cycle in decades. But while everyone was watching politics, another story may have been far more important—and far more frightening. Climate scientists are warning that conditions are lining up for what could become an exceptionally powerful El Niño pattern, bringing hotter temperatures, more extreme weather, and potentially another record-breaking year for global heat. And that's what has me worried. I live in Las Vegas, a city that already feels like it's sitting on the edge of an oven every summer. If temperatures continue to rise, what happens to cities like mine? What happens to millions of people living in places already struggling with extreme heat, drought, and rising energy costs? Is this simply our future now? A hotter planet. More dangerous summers. More climate refugees. More communities pushed to the breaking point. Today, we'll discuss the primary election results you need to know, but we'll also tackle the story that may matter far more in the long run: climate change, extreme heat, and whether America—and the world—are prepared for what's coming next. And yes, we'll talk about fear. Because change can be frightening. I feel it too. Support independent media at Patreon.com/ReallyKarel Subscribe and join the conversation at YouTube.com/ReallyKarel The Karel Show streams Monday through Thursday and is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Spreaker, and all major podcast platforms. #ClimateChange, #GlobalWarming, #ElNino, #ExtremeHeat, #LasVegas, #Weather, #ClimateCrisis, #HeatWave, #Environment, #ClimateNews, #Politics, #Election2026, #Midterms, #PrimaryElection, #CurrentEvents, #BreakingNews, #NewsAnalysis, #PoliticalCommentary, #TheKarelShow, #Karel, #Earth, #ClimateEmergency, #Sustainability, #ScienceNews, #WeatherNews, #EnvironmentalNews, #HeatDome, #FutureOfAmerica, #Podcast, #IndependentMedia https://youtube.com/live/s0rhwIdJoqM

'BradCast' 6/2/2026: Trump's Favorite Election Fraud Criminal Now Runs Free by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 6/2/2026 by Progressive Voices

Trump Is Losing. Why Does America Feel Like It's Losing Too? Donald Trump keeps taking hits. His proposed projects are stalling. Legal troubles continue to mount. Poll numbers are sliding. Key initiatives face growing opposition. Even on major international issues, his answers seem increasingly detached from the realities Americans face every day. By many measures, Donald Trump is losing. But if Trump is losing, why does it feel like America is losing too? For millions of Americans, life is becoming harder, not easier. Housing costs remain out of reach. Grocery prices continue to strain family budgets. Political divisions are deeper than ever. Washington remains gridlocked while everyday people struggle to build stable, secure lives. So what happens if Trump's setbacks don't translate into victories for the rest of us? Today, Karel examines the uncomfortable reality that one politician's losses don't automatically become America's wins. More importantly, we'll explore what real success looks like for ordinary Americans—and how we can create it regardless of who occupies the White House. Are we trapped in a cycle where everyone loses? Or is there a path forward that neither political party seems willing to discuss? Join the conversation. Support independent media at Patreon.com/ReallyKarel Subscribe for more daily commentary on politics, culture, entertainment, and the issues shaping our lives: YouTube.com/ReallyKarel The Karel Show streams Monday through Thursday and is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Spreaker, and all major podcast platforms. #Trump, #DonaldTrump, #Politics, #PoliticalNews, #America, #USPolitics, #BreakingNews, #CurrentEvents, #Democrats, #Republicans, #ProgressivePolitics, #LiberalPolitics, #PoliticalCommentary, #Election2028, #WhiteHouse, #Congress, #Economy, #Inflation, #CostOfLiving, #MiddleClass, #AmericanDream, #NewsAnalysis, #PoliticalAnalysis, #TrumpNews, #Government, #Voters, #IndependentMedia, #TheKarelShow, #NewsPodcast, #PoliticalPodcast https://youtube.com/live/y6Ui7PIINDc

'BradCast' 6/1/2026: One Failure After Another: An historic moment as the Trump Presidency collapses by Progressive Voices

400+ Anti-LGBTQ Bills: Why Pride Month Still Matters Many people ask: “Why do we still need Pride Month?” After all, same-sex marriage is legal. LGBTQ people are visible in media, business, and politics. Haven't we won? The answer is no. As Pride Month begins, LGBTQ Americans—especially transgender youth—are facing the most significant legal and political backlash in decades. While marriage equality remains intact nationwide, the fight has shifted from expanding rights to defending them. More than 400 anti-LGBTQ bills have been introduced across dozens of states, while over 100 anti-trans laws have been enacted in recent years. From healthcare restrictions and sports bans to book censorship and attacks on legal recognition, the LGBTQ community is confronting a coordinated effort to roll back hard-won protections. In this episode, Karel examines:

This Gay Week EXPLODES: Pride Canceled, Toilet Wars, Nigel Farage Backlash & A Viral LGBTQ Student Pride flags are being ripped down, politicians are fueling outrage, and once again the LGBTQ+ community is at the center of another global culture war. On this episode of Gay Week, Scott Jacobsen and Karel break down the stories everyone will be talking about. A chilling new true crime series revisits the tragic death of Alex Rodda and raises disturbing questions about social media, bullying, and accountability. In the UK, London Colney cancels its Pride celebration after hate crimes targeting Pride flags spark fear and outrage. Meanwhile, Nigel Farage faces backlash for defending a controversial preacher accused of anti-LGBTQ rhetoric. Plus, the endless “bathroom wars” continue as another anti-trans law takes effect, Senegal accuses the West of “imposing homosexuality,” and an openly gay 8th grader from Kentucky goes viral for all the right reasons. This episode is passionate, political, emotional, and deeply personal. Watch live weekdays and join the conversation. Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/reallykarel Subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/reallykarel The Karel Show streams on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Spreaker and more. #LGBTQNews #Pride #NigelFarage #AlexRodda #GayWeek #TheKarelShow #LGBTQ, #GayNews, #Pride, #LGBTQNews, #TheKarelShow, #NigelFarage, #AlexRodda, #TrueCrime, #SocialMediaMurders, #PrideFlags, #TransRights, #BathroomBills, #GayRights, #LGBTQCommunity, #Politics, #CultureWar, #UKNews, #AntiLGBTQ, #Equality, #HumanRights, #QueerNews, #LGBTQPolitics, #ViralStory, #Kentucky, #PrideMonth, #BreakingNews, #ProgressiveTalk, #CurrentEvents, #Podcast, #YouTubePodcast https://youtu.be/TqLqvZl9bDU

America at 250: What Exactly Are We Celebrating? | Kitchen Talk With Karel America is about to celebrate its 250th birthday… but what exactly are we celebrating? This week, a massive American flag was draped across Hoover Dam to launch the America 250 festivities. But as drought, climate change, political division, attacks on civil rights, and economic anxiety continue to reshape the country, Karel asks the uncomfortable question many Americans are quietly thinking: Is America truly something to celebrate right now? Broadcasting from the kitchen, Karel mixes food, commentary, politics, history, and real talk as he prepares soup and dives into the contradictions of modern America. From the drying of Lake Mead to the growing divide in the nation, this episode of Kitchen Talk is part cooking show, part social commentary, and completely unfiltered. What does patriotism even mean in 2026? And can a country celebrate freedom while so many feel left behind? Support the show at Patreon: patreon.com/reallykarel Subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/reallykarel Watch live Monday through Thursday at 10:30am PST. #America250, #FourthOfJuly, #AmericanPolitics, #KitchenTalk, #TheKarelShow, #HooverDam, #LakeMead, #ClimateChange, #PoliticalCommentary, #CurrentEvents, #ProgressiveTalk, #America, #USPolitics, #Drought, #LasVegas, #NewsCommentary, #LiberalTalk, #CivilRights, #AmericanHistory, #Patriotism, #CookingShow, #SoupRecipe, #Politics, #SocialCommentary, #YouTubePodcast, #IndependentMedia, #PoliticalDiscussion, #CultureWar, #RealTalk, #Podcast https://youtube.com/live/zVAPT8CDAMg

The News Is Broken—And It's Breaking Your Brain BREAKING NEWS!” Every alert is urgent. Every headline is a crisis. Every story is supposedly the end of the world. But what if the real problem isn't the news… it's the way the news is built? Today on The Karel Show, we dive into the nonstop outrage machine that modern media has become. Fear, anger, panic, urgency—it's all engineered to keep you watching, clicking, doom-scrolling and emotionally exhausted. Are we finally tuning out because the news itself is broken? We'll look at today's biggest headlines and ask: * Which stories truly matter? * Which are manufactured outrage? * And how much of “breaking news” is actually broken journalism? Also: Primm, Nevada—the once-iconic stop between Las Vegas and California—is becoming a modern ghost town. So what killed it? Bad planning? Changing travel habits? Corporate greed? We'll break down the slow collapse of a desert landmark. And the Pope issues a massive warning about Artificial Intelligence in a 43,000-word address—and the tech world immediately shrugs it off. Is the Vatican overreacting… or seeing something Silicon Valley refuses to admit? The Karel Show streams live Monday through Thursday at 10:30 AM PST. Support the show at patreon.com/reallykarel Watch and subscribe at youtube.com/reallykarel Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Spreaker, TikTok and Instagram. #BreakingNews, #MediaBias, #NewsMedia, #DoomScrolling, #MainstreamMedia, #KarelShow, #TheKarelShow, #NewsCommentary, #CurrentEvents, #PoliticalCommentary, #PrimmNevada, #LasVegas, #GhostTown, #AI, #ArtificialIntelligence, #PopeFrancis, #TechNews, #MediaCulture, #CableNews, #Journalism, #ModernMedia, #FearMongering, #YouTubeNews, #IndependentMedia, #ViralNews, #TrendingNews, #NewsAnalysis, #DigitalCulture, #PodcastShow, #EntertainmentNews, #LGBTQ, #Vegan, #LasVegas https://youtube.com/live/B7hgi4oK08s

This time on Code WACK! For millions of Americans, health care means fighting insurance companies, putting off costly treatment, wondering whether the hospital you prefer is in-network, or fearing financial disaster if you get seriously sick. But what if healthcare worked differently? This is part two of our conversation with Dr. Bernard Ho, an emergency physician in Toronto and vice chair of Canadian Doctors for Medicare, a national evidence-based organization working to strengthen Canada's publicly funded healthcare system. He is a lecturer at the University of Toronto, where he also earned his M.D. Bernard is currently completing his Masters of Public Administration at the Harvard Kennedy School. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more! And please keep Code WACK! on the air with a tax-deductible donation at heal-ca.org/donate.

40,000 Evacuated After Toxic Tank Threat—Could This Happen In YOUR Neighborhood? A terrifying chemical tank failure in Garden Grove, California forced the evacuation of more than 40,000 people over Memorial Day weekend—including my friend Brandon and his family. Why? Because a massive industrial tank containing highly toxic chemicals was at risk of catastrophic failure. Had it exploded, thousands could have been injured—or worse. So why are dangerous industrial chemicals stored in densely populated neighborhoods? Why are homes, schools, and businesses built around facilities capable of mass disaster? And how many Americans are living next to hidden industrial threats without even knowing it? Today we examine the Garden Grove evacuation, the dangers lurking in cities across America, and why regulators continue allowing hazardous facilities near residential communities. Also: Trump pushes the Abraham Accords as global pressure mounts over Israel and the Middle East. Is diplomacy—or coercion—the real strategy? And I've seen what may be the best movie of the year—and no, it's not another franchise blockbuster. I'll tell you what surprised me and why you should watch it. The Karel Cast is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel Watch, like, and subscribe at youtube.com/reallykarel The Karel Cast streams Monday through Thursday at 10:30 AM PST and is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Spreaker, TikTok and Instagram. #GardenGrove, #CaliforniaNews, #BreakingNews, #ChemicalSpill, #ToxicLeak, #MassEvacuation, #EmergencyAlert, #EnvironmentalDisaster, #PublicSafety, #IndustrialAccident, #ToxicChemicals, #NeighborhoodDanger, #TrumpNews, #AbrahamAccords, #MiddleEastNews, #Politics, #CurrentEvents, #NewsCommentary, #KarelShow, #TheKarelCast, #YouTubeNews, #ViralNews, #EmergencyResponse, #DisasterZone, #ChemicalPlant, #CaliforniaEmergency, #InvestigativeNews, #HiddenDanger, #MovieReview, #StreamingNow https://youtube.com/live/4lx3aCO3co8

Israel's Massive Pride Celebration vs Nigeria's LGBTQ Crackdown | This Gay Week This week on This Gay Week, Karel and journalist Scott Jacobsen report from Kyiv to break down the biggest LGBTQ stories happening around the world — from celebration and visibility to fear and persecution. In Nigeria and Cameroon, LGBTQ prisoners are still being jailed simply for existing. The organization Project Not Alone is working to literally buy freedom for some detainees, but how does that system work, and why are people being abandoned by the world community? Meanwhile, Israel is hosting a massive four-day Pride celebration in Tel Aviv near the Dead Sea, drawing LGBTQ tourists from around the globe. But with tensions exploding across the Middle East, is now the right time for a major international Pride event? Plus: • Marcia Gay Harden delivers an important message for mothers everywhere • LGBTQ youth are damaging their health in record numbers using a legal substance — what is happening? • Global LGBTQ headlines, politics, culture, and human rights stories you need to know Karel and Scott bring perspective, passion, and global insight to the stories shaping LGBTQ life around the world. Support The Karel Cast at Patreon.com/ReallyKarel Subscribe at YouTube.com/ReallyKarel #LGBTQ, #Pride, #GayNews, #ThisGayWeek, #Israel, #TelAvivPride, #Nigeria, #HumanRights, #LGBTQRights, #MiddleEast, #Cameroon, #Equality, #GayCulture, #LGBTQNews, #KarelCast, #ScottJacobsen, #BreakingNews, #GlobalNews, #Pride2026, #TransRights, #Lesbian, #Gay, #Bisexual, #Queer, #Politics, #WorldNews, #LGBTQYouth, #MarciaGayHarden, #Humanity, #Podcast https://youtu.be/StFTPzX3Hig

'BradCast' 5/21/2026: Republicans Are Revolting, with guests Heather Digby Parton and 'Driftglass' by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 5/21/2026 by Progressive Voices

Medical Mistakes Are America's 3rd Biggest Killer | My Partner Died 25 Years Ago Today 26-83 A quarter century ago, a preventable medical mistake took the life of my partner, Andrew Lee Howard. Today, medical errors are considered the third leading cause of death in America — behind only heart disease and cancer. How did we get here? Why are so many families still suffering because of mistakes that should never happen? In this deeply personal episode of The Karel Show, I open up about grief, survival, loss, forgiveness, and what it really takes to move forward after tragedy. Twenty-five years later, I'm still learning the lessons Andrew taught me: life is too short for meaningless meetings, everyone should grow something, cooking should come from passion, and even in the face of illness, you still have to get up and live. We also talk about HIV/AIDS, caregiving, resilience, and why love sometimes means accepting people exactly as they are. If you've ever lost someone, struggled with grief, or questioned the healthcare system, this episode will hit home. The Karel Show is one of the top independent podcasts covering current events, culture, politics, entertainment, and real life — streaming everywhere from Spotify and Apple Podcasts to iHeartRadio and Spreaker.

'BradCast' 5/20/2026: Primary Results from Six States; Lawsuit Challenges Trump's $1.8 Billion Taxpayer-Funded Grift Machine by Progressive Voices

Trump's DOJ Is Paying Jan. 6 Defendants?! America's Justice System Is Breaking Down The headlines sound unbelievable, but they're real. Reports now claim DOJ officials told GOP allies that major payouts were coming for January 6 defendants. At the same time, Trump's Justice Department settlements are reportedly protecting him — and even members of his family — from IRS actions tied to old tax issues and audits. So what message does this send to America? Break the law, become powerful enough, and the system protects you instead of prosecuting you? Karel breaks down why this moment feels less like democracy and more like authoritarianism rewarded. Congress seems frozen. The courts move slowly. And Trump continues turning grievance, chaos, and sedition into profit and power. Plus: • Ebola and Hantavirus fears are rising again — can Americans still trust public health institutions after COVID? • Is the CDC prepared for another real pandemic? • The Mandalorian & Grogu are dominating the box office, but has Star Wars evolved…or completely lost its magic? Politics, culture, media, and reality collide on today's Karel Cast. Support the show at Patreon.com/ReallyKarel Subscribe at YouTube.com/ReallyKarel #Trump, #January6, #DOJ, #Politics, #BreakingNews, #TrumpNews, #Jan6, #Fascism, #Democracy, #Corruption, #IRS, #Congress, #SupremeCourt, #CDC, #Pandemic, #Ebola, #Hantavirus, #StarWars, #Mandalorian, #Grogu, #PoliticalCommentary, #CurrentEvents, #NewsAnalysis, #TheKarelCast, #AmericanPolitics, #Media, #Authoritarianism, #JusticeSystem, #DemocracyCrisis, #YouTubePolitics https://youtube.com/live/N1CR0zlLBHE

This time on Code WACK! Today we're taking an inside look at Canada's public health insurance system known as Medicare. What are the biggest misconceptions Americans have about it? What works, what doesn't, and why? And what happens when a public system starts drifting toward privatization? This is part one of our conversation with Dr. Bernard Ho, an emergency physician in Toronto and Vice-Chair of Canadian Doctors for Medicare, a national evidence-based organization working to strengthen Canada's publicly funded healthcare system. He is a lecturer at the University of Toronto, where he also earned his M.D. Bernard is currently completing his Masters of Public Administration at the Harvard Kennedy School. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more! And please keep Code WACK! on the air with a tax-deductible donation at heal-ca.org/donate.

The guest host for today's show is Brad Bannon. Brad runs Bannon Communications Research, a polling, message development and media firm which helps labor unions, progressive issue groups and Democratic candidates win public affairs and political campaigns. His show, 'Deadline D.C. with Brad Bannon,' airs every Monday from 3-4pm ET.  Brad is first joined by Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). The two discuss black Americans being stripped of their political power following the recent Louisiana v. Callais Supreme Court ruling. President Weingarten also previews a ten-point speech she'll be giving on how to properly educate our children in the age of AI.  She describes how teachers are seeing the 'muscle of learning' atrophying, and how we need to respond by changing education so that we're building active learning. She also shares how instead of leading this charge, Trump's Department of Education is instead busy undermining civil rights. Finally, she and Brad discuss a huge issue on the minds of the American people as they head to November's midterm elections, affordability.  She shares what could be done to change the U.S. tax code to help with this issue. Then, Brad is joined by CNN Military Analyst Col. Cedric Leighton (USAF-Ret.). The pair talks about President Trump's recent trip to China, and his refusal to commit to defending Taiwan if China attacked them. Next, they shift the conversation to the Iran war.  Col. Leighton highlights how President Trump failed to articulate why he was sending our nation to war with Iran. The President also never sought the authorization to use military force from Congress, or even notified the 'gang of eight' before launching military strikes with Israel against Iran. Finally, Col. Leighton updates the audience on Ukraine's recent success in penetrating Russia's missile defense system in a way that hadn't yet been done in the war. Randi Weingarten is president of the 1.8 million-member AFT, which represents teachers; paraprofessionals and school-related personnel; higher education faculty and staff; nurses and other healthcare professionals; local, state and federal government employees; and early childhood educators. The AFT is dedicated to the belief that every person in America deserves the freedom to thrive, fueled by opportunity, justice and a voice in our democracy. Their website is www.AFT.org and their handle on BlueSky is @aftunion.bsky.social.  Randi's handle is @rweingarten.bsky.social. Col. Cedric Leighton is the Founder and President of Cedric Leighton Associates, a strategic risk and leadership consultancy serving global companies and organizations. He founded the company in 2010, after serving in the US Air Force for 27 years as an Intelligence Officer and attaining the rank of Colonel. His website is www.CedricLeighton.com and his handle on BlueSky is @CedricLeighton.bsky.social. Brad is on the National Journal's panel of political insiders, is an American political analyst for The Times of India TV, and is a national political analyst for WGN TV and Radio in Chicago and KNX Radio in Los Angeles. Brad also writes a political column every Sunday for 'The Hill.' You can read his columns at www.MuckRack.com/Brad-Bannon. His handle on BlueSky is @bradbannon.bsky.social.

'BradCast' 5/19/2026: NAACP Launches Voting Rights Boycott of College Sports at Southern Schools; Trump's corrupt $1.8B deal by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 5/19/2026 by Progressive Voices

Children Are Listening: Hate Speech, Trump & America's Growing Violence Problem Two teenagers carried out a horrifying hate crime at a mosque in San Diego, killing three people. But the bigger question is: where does this kind of hatred come from? Children are not born hating Muslims, LGBTQ people, immigrants, or people of color. They learn it — from adults, media, politicians, social media, and the culture around them. Today, hate speech is treated like entertainment. Islamophobia, homophobia, transphobia, racism — people dismiss it as “just opinions,” until violence happens. Then everyone acts shocked. But words matter, especially when young people are listening. And no public figure in America has normalized division and cruelty more than Donald Trump. Whether it's immigrants, LGBTQ people, Muslims, or political enemies, the message spreads far beyond rallies and cable news. The children are listening. And sometimes, they act. Plus: The Heart Attack Grill in Las Vegas is shutting down, and the reason says a lot about America's economy. Businesses are increasingly abandoning average Americans and focusing only on wealthier consumers. What does that say about where the country is headed? The Karel Cast dives into politics, culture, media, and the stories shaping our lives — with honesty, humor, and humanity. Support the show at Patreon.com/ReallyKarel Watch and subscribe at YouTube.com/ReallyKarel #Trump, #HateCrime, #Islamophobia, #MosqueAttack, #SanDiego, #Politics, #BreakingNews, #LGBTQ, #TransRights, #Homophobia, #Racism, #SocialMedia, #DonaldTrump, #Violence, #NewsCommentary, #CurrentEvents, #TheKarelCast, #ProgressiveTalk, #MediaCriticism, #AmericanPolitics, #CultureWars, #Equality, #HumanRights, #LasVegas, #HeartAttackGrill, #Economy, #MiddleClass, #PoliticalCommentary, #Podcast, #YouTubePolitics, #LGBTQ, #Vegan, #LasVegas, #EmberDoes_Vegas

'BradCast' 5/18/2026: Trump's $1.8 Billion DOJ-Facilitated Taxpayer Heist by Progressive Voices

PRIDE IS COLLAPSING… And Maybe That's A GOOD Thing by Progressive Voices

In this episode, Leslie speaks with Jeff Padellaro, Director of the Teamsters Brewery, Bakery, and Soft Drink Conference, about ongoing strikes involving Teamsters workers at Breakthru Beverage in Illinois and Missouri. Jeff has been a Teamster for nearly 40 years. He explains why drivers and warehouse workers walked off the job, accusing the company of unfair labor practices and attempting to weaken critical union protections — including workers' rights to honor Teamsters picket lines. He discusses why those protections matter not just in these disputes, but for the broader strength and solidarity of organized labor. The conversation also examines the challenges facing newly organized workers in St. Louis who are fighting for a fair first contract, as well as what the union describes as bad-faith bargaining tactics by management. Throughout the interview, Jeff reflects on nearly four decades as a Teamster and discusses the growing willingness of workers across the country to stand together and push back against corporate pressure. It's a candid conversation about labor rights, solidarity, and why these strikes matter far beyond one company. Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow them on X @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/Teamsters.

'BradCast' 5/14/2026: More GOP Vote Rigging Underway. Hey, Maryland Dems! Time to Get Crackin' by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 5/14/2026 by Progressive Voices

THE TRUTH IS NOW CONTROVERSIAL — And That Should Terrify You 26-78 We live in a time where outrage is entertainment, misinformation spreads faster than facts, and absurdity is rewarded with clicks, followers and fame. But tell the truth? That's where the real danger begins. In this episode of The Karel Show, Karel explores why honesty has become the most controversial thing in modern life. Why are people punished for uncomfortable truths while lies thrive online? Why has truth become something people fear instead of value? From social media algorithms to modern politics, outrage culture to entertainment, we've built a world where being loud matters more than being right. And when someone dares to say what's real, they risk censorship, backlash and isolation. Plus, Karel reacts to the controversy surrounding The Boys and the reaction after commenting on the fate of the show's bi character — and why representation in film and television still comes with consequences. Watch, like and subscribe to The Karel Show on YouTube and support independent media at Patreon. #Truth, #Censorship, #TheKarelShow, #FreeSpeech, #MediaBias, #Politics, #SocialMedia, #CultureWar, #CancelCulture, #TheTruth, #Commentary, #NewsAnalysis, #EntertainmentNews, #TheBoys, #LGBTQ, #RepresentationMatters, #Hollywood, #StreamingTV, #CurrentEvents, #Podcast, #IndependentMedia, #TruthMatters, #ViralCulture, #ModernSociety, #PoliticalCommentary, #YouTubePolitics, #CulturalCommentary, #TrendingNews, #NewsPodcast, #Karel https://youtube.com/live/50LSk76qakk

'BradCast' 5/13/2026: Do Dems Have the Courage Required to Restore and Reform American Democracy? by Progressive Voices

In this episode, Leslie speaks with parent coach, writer, and speaker Margot Magowan about how Nonviolent Communication (NVC) transformed her relationship with her children—and especially helped her family through a painful mental health crisis involving her oldest daughter. After years of therapies, hospitalizations, medications, and conflict, Margot says the breakthrough came when she and her husband learned how to truly listen with presence, curiosity, and compassion. She explains how NVC helped her shift away from trying to control or “fix” behavior and instead understand the feelings and needs beneath it. The conversation explores practical parenting challenges that many families face—from school struggles and emotional outbursts to rules, conflict, and communication—and how changing the way we respond to children can create more trust, safety, and emotional connection. Margot also discusses the difference between “power-over” and “power-with” parenting, why so many parents feel overwhelmed today, and how emotional regulation begins with the adults in the room. It's an honest and compassionate conversation about parenting, connection, and learning how to listen in a whole new way. Margot's website is Listen2ConnectCoach.com and her handles on Instagram are @Listen2ConnectCoach and @reelgirlreviews.

Why Are Conservatives SO Triggered By Pride Flags? | Trump, FIFA & The Culture War Explained Pride Month is here, and once again the culture war is raging over one thing: the rainbow flag. Iran wants FIFA to ban Pride flags, Trump allies want them removed from public spaces, and cities across America are fighting over Pride displays and even rainbow sidewalks. But why does a symbol of inclusion make so many people so angry? Today on The Karel Show, Karel breaks down the real reason Pride flags trigger certain conservatives, the politics behind the outrage, and why LGBTQ visibility still scares so many in 2026. Plus: * Trump prepares for a very different showdown with China's leader Xi Jinping — and this isn't Putin. * FDA turmoil erupts as Marty Makary reportedly clashes with Trump-world over flavored vape policies. * Why vaping is far more dangerous than people admit. * And on The Boys, Sister Sage proves a painful truth liberals often forget: intelligence without strategy can still lose. The culture wars aren't slowing down — they're escalating. Support independent media and The Karel Show at: Patreon Watch and subscribe: YouTube Channel Streaming everywhere including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio and Spreaker. #PrideFlag, #PrideMonth, #LGBTQ, #Trump, #FIFA, #RainbowFlag, #CultureWar, #Politics, #GayRights, #Pride2026, #Conservative, #Liberal, #TheBoys, #SisterSage, #XiJinping, #China, #FDA, #Vaping, #News, #CurrentEvents, #PoliticalCommentary, #LGBTQRights, #Equality, #Podcast, #YouTubePolitics, #DonaldTrump, #Pride, #CultureWars, #IndependentMedia, #TheKarelShow https://youtube.com/live/Zy3yAlj2gEY

This time on Code WACK! As of spring 2026, enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies have not been extended. Without congressional action, millions of Americans could face significantly higher premiums—or lose coverage altogether. Around 22 million people receive ACA premium subsidies, many of whom benefited from pandemic-era enhancements. If those aren't restored, affordability for individuals buying their own coverage will take a major hit. Meanwhile, health care costs are rising across the board. Employer-sponsored insurance premiums have seen some of the largest increases in over a decade, shifting more costs to workers through higher premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses. Medicare premiums are also climbing, adding pressure on older adults. As coverage becomes less affordable, many people delay care, skip medications, or make tough financial tradeoffs just to get by. So what options do people have? Today, we revisit a timely 2025 conversation with Rachel Madley, executive director at the Center for Health and Democracy and former advisor to Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more! And please keep Code WACK! on the air with a tax-deductible donation at heal-ca.org/donate.

'BradCast' 5/12/2026: California Offshore Oil Rig Fire Previews Trump's Next Huge Failure by Progressive Voices