Progressive Voices

It's Christmas — Let's Dance!

The True Meaning of Christmas (It's Not What You Think) | Karel Cast Every year we decorate the tree, exchange gifts, sing the songs, and gather with loved ones — but do we ever stop to ask why we do any of it? On this Christmas Eve episode of The Karel Cast, we take a deeper look at the true meaning of Christmas: where the traditions came from, what they were meant to symbolize, and how the holiday has evolved into what it is today. We'll also talk honestly about why Christmas can feel magical for some — and painfully lonely or depressing for others. From nostalgia and loss to hope and connection, this is a reflective, thoughtful conversation about what this night really represents in our modern world. Whether Christmas fills you with joy, sadness, or a mix of both, this episode is for you. The Karel Cast is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel. Please watch, like, comment, and subscribe at youtube.com/reallykarel. The Karel Cast is heard on all major streaming platforms — from Apple Music to iHeartRadio, Spotify to Spreaker. Live Monday through Thursday at 10:30 AM PST, and streaming on TikTok and Instagram. Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer broadcasting from Las Vegas with his little service girl, Ember. #ChristmasEve, #TrueMeaningOfChristmas, #HolidayReflection, #ChristmasTraditions, #HolidayMentalHealth, #ChristmasSadness, #HolidayJoy, #ChristmasThoughts, #KarelCast, #HolidayDepression, #ChristmasSpirit, #HolidayEmotions, #SeasonOfHope, #ModernChristmas, #LGBTQVoices, #HolidayPodcast, #ChristmasPodcast, #EndOfYearReflection, #LasVegas, #EmberTheServiceDog https://youtube.com/live/x8-698BCM9I

These Food & Climate Numbers Will Shock You | Karel Cast 25-167 What would it actually take for your state to be food-self-sufficient? How much food — and especially meat — would the United States have to produce just to feed itself? The answers are staggering, and they reveal why climate change, agriculture, and what we eat are deeply connected — whether we want to admit it or not. These numbers don't just challenge our assumptions, they expose how fragile the food system really is. So yes, eat, drink, and be merry this holiday season — but understand this: you are not alone, and the choices we make collectively matter more than ever. Plus, let's talk about the emotional side of the holidays. They can be joyful… but also stressful. What holiday pet peeves drive you crazy? Crowds? Family drama? Travel chaos? Odds are, we share more than a few. And to balance it out: what are the things worth loving this season? The moments, the people, the small joys that make it all worthwhile. The Karel Cast is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel. Please like, subscribe, and share at youtube.com/reallykarel. Catch The Karel Cast Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST on Apple Music, iHeart Media, Spotify, Spreaker, TikTok, and Instagram. #KarelCast, #FoodSecurity, #ClimateChange, #SustainableFood, #MeatConsumption, #ClimateCrisis, #FoodSystem, #HolidaySeason, #HolidayStress, #HolidayPetPeeves, #FoodProduction, #EnvironmentalImpact, #DietAndClimate, #USFoodSupply, #PopCultureTalk, #ProgressiveVoices, #SocialIssues, #NewsCommentary, #LGBTQCreators, #LasVegasCreator https://youtube.com/live/gB4ZdO9dlkE

Airlines vs. Bigger Bodies: Should Fat Travelers Pay More? | Karel Cast Holiday travel is here — and Southwest Airlines is back in the spotlight for its “customer of size” policy. If you're considered too large for a single seat, they require you to buy two. Sure, you might get a refund later… but will you? And is this policy fair? Let's be honest: airplane seats are shrinking while Americans are getting larger. Should heavier passengers be financially penalized — or should airlines be held accountable for designing seats that barely fit anyone? And what does this say about how society treats bigger bodies? Plus: As we wrap up the year, Karel dives into the best movies, best music, and standout cultural moments of 2024 — the hits, the surprises, and what's absolutely worth your time this holiday break. And finally: What would your perfect Christmas gift be this year? Let's talk joy, wishes, and what really matters as we close out the year. The Karel Cast is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel. Please like, subscribe, and share at youtube.com/reallykarel. Stream The Karel Cast Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST on Apple Music, iHeart Media, Spotify, Spreaker, TikTok, and Instagram. #KarelCast, #HolidayTravel, #AirlinePolicies, #SouthwestAirlines, #BodyPositivity, #FatShaming, #TravelNews, #AirlineSeats, #AviationIssues, #HolidaySeason2024, #MovieRecommendations, #BestMusic2024, #PopCultureNews, #Christmas2024, #GiftIdeas2024, #NewsCommentary, #ProgressiveTalk, #SocialIssues, #LGBTQVoices, #LasVegasCreator https://youtube.com/live/cJnWWycOc_I

'BradCast' 12/18/2025: Old Man Shouts At People, and Other End of Year Observations by Progressive Voices

GNR_121825_PV by Progressive Voices

Trump's Oval Office Meltdown, Bongino Exits FBI, and UnitedHealth's Deadly Denials Last night's Oval Office address from Donald Trump was meant to reassure the nation—but instead became an awkward, rambling spectacle that many are calling an international embarrassment. Trump insisted the economy is “fine,” listed supposed accomplishments, and brushed off serious problems as minor issues he alone can fix. The result was painful to watch—and deeply revealing. Was it incompetence, denial, or something else entirely? And does it explain why Dan Bongino abruptly stepped down as FBI Deputy Director? Plus, a major reckoning for UnitedHealthcare. After years of denying and delaying critical care, the company now faces wrongful death lawsuits following the deaths of three nursing home residents who were blocked from emergency hospital treatment. Is accountability finally coming—and how many more cases are waiting in the shadows?

'BradCast' 12/17/2025: SCOTUS road map for illegal gerrymandering by Progressive Voices

RFK Jr., Junk Science, and the Dangerous War on Public Health | Karel Cast A headline from The Hill claims “the war on saturated fat was never based on good science.” That claim is false — and dangerous. Decades of peer-reviewed research link high saturated fat intake to heart disease and serious health outcomes. Yet RFK Jr. is pushing this narrative anyway. Since entering office, RFK Jr. has systematically dismantled public-health safeguards — from vaccines to nutrition policy — gutting the CDC and undermining trust in science. So the real question becomes: why is he willing to gamble with Americans' lives? On today's episode of The Karel Cast, we break down how misinformation around food and health becomes policy — and who pays the price. Plus: how much does each state actually contribute to the U.S. GDP? The numbers are shocking, and they completely undercut MAGA talking points about “who carries the country.” And finally: Hollywood's “woke” reputation vs. reality. Over 90% of what Americans watch is created by white people, with nearly 80% by white men. Is this just demographics — or a full-scale regression to old power structures? This episode connects health, economics, media, and power — and why all of it matters right now. The Karel Cast is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel. Please watch, like, comment, and subscribe at youtube.com/reallykarel. The Karel Cast streams Monday–Thursday at 10:30 AM PST on Apple Music, iHeart, Spotify, Spreaker, TikTok, and Instagram. Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer, currently in Las Vegas with his little service girl, Ember. #KarelCast, #RFKJr, #PublicHealthCrisis, #HealthMisinformation, #SaturatedFat, #HeartDisease, #ScienceMatters, #CDC, #HealthcarePolicy, #USPolitics, #MAGAMyths, #EconomicReality, #StateGDP, #HollywoodDiversity, #MediaRepresentation, #ProgressiveVoices, #PoliticalCommentary, #LGBTQVoices, #LasVegasCreator, #EmberTheServiceDog https://youtube.com/live/7c6RThpAYpM

This time on Code WACK! Suddenly, with little notice, you may find yourself having to step into a caregiving role for a friend or family member. Maybe you already have. It could be an aging parent, an ailing partner or an injured child. What does it really cost—emotionally, physically, and financially—to care for someone you love? To find out, we recently spoke with Mary-Elizabeth Harmon, a scientist turned storyteller and caregiver whose life changed in an instant. What she thought would be a brief visit to her father ultimately became a years' long caregiving journey that nearly pushed her to the brink—and ultimately inspired her vision for “vertical villages,” where neighbors foster caring communities and economies to support one another through life's toughest moments. As the founder of Village Company 360 and the caregiver of her mother in Virgina, Mary-Elizabeth reveals just how unprepared our systems are for the caregiving crisis—and why all of us need to pay attention. This is the first episode in a two-part series. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more! And please keep Code WACK! on the air with a tax-deductible donation.

'BradCast' 12/16/2025 (Bricks in the Wall) by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 12/16/2025 by Progressive Voices

Is It Time to Invoke the 25th Amendment? | Karel Cast Donald Trump's latest post targeting Rob Reiner has shocked even longtime Republicans — and for many, it feels like the moment where denial finally ends. This is no longer about political disagreement. It's about fitness, stability, and responsibility. On today's episode of The Karel Cast, we examine the growing concerns about Trump's health, behavior, and ability to govern. This is a man with access to nuclear codes — someone most people wouldn't trust to babysit a child — yet elected officials continue to look the other way. Why? The Constitution provides a mechanism for moments like this: the 25th Amendment. That responsibility falls to the Cabinet — but will they act? Or are fear, money, and loyalty to MAGA preventing them from doing their duty, even as polls show Trump's own base beginning to turn? We'll talk about political cowardice, constitutional accountability, and why so many leaders refuse to act even when the warning signs feel impossible to ignore. Plus: with Christmas Eve just days away, are you ready — emotionally, mentally, and practically — for the holidays? The Karel Cast is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel. Please watch, like, comment, and subscribe at youtube.com/reallykarel. The Karel Cast streams Monday–Thursday at 10:30 AM PST on Apple Music, iHeart, Spotify, Spreaker, TikTok, and Instagram. Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer, currently in Las Vegas with his little service girl, Ember. #InvokeThe25th, #25thAmendment, #TrumpMentalFitness, #PresidentialFitness, #PoliticalAccountability, #ConstitutionalCrisis, #KarelCast, #TrumpNews, #MAGAPolitics, #RepublicansTurning, #USPolitics, #BreakingPolitics, #DemocracyAtRisk, #ProgressiveVoices, #PoliticalCommentary, #HolidayStress, #ChristmasEveCountdown, #LasVegasCreator, #LGBTQVoices, #EmberTheServiceDog https://youtube.com/live/B71mWE4_JrM

'BradCast' 12/15/2025: A Weekend of Horrific Violence by Progressive Voices

A Holiday Weekend of Tragedy, Violence, and How We Keep Going | Karel Cast 25-170 This was supposed to be a holiday weekend — and instead, it became a devastating reminder of how broken and violent the world feels right now. Two people were shot and killed at Brown University, with the suspect still at large. In Australia, 15 people were murdered in a hate-driven mass shooting, the country's deadliest in 30 years. And in a shocking family tragedy, Rob Reiner and his wife were murdered in their home by their own son. It's overwhelming. It's heartbreaking. And it raises the question so many of us are asking right now: Is the world losing its mind — and how do we stay positive when tragedy feels constant? On today's episode of The Karel Cast, we talk honestly about grief, fear, compassion fatigue, and what it takes to keep going when the news never lets up. Plus, a lighter — but revealing — moment: a major vegan fail this weekend that made me realize how even our diets are being impacted by Donald Trump-era economics and policy fallout. This is a conversation about reality, resilience, and finding humanity when the headlines feel unbearable. The Karel Cast is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel. Please watch, like, and subscribe at youtube.com/reallykarel. The Karel Cast is heard on all major platforms from Apple Music to iHeart, Spotify to Spreaker. Live Monday through Thursday at 10:30 AM PST, and also streaming on TikTok and Instagram. Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer, currently in Las Vegas with his little service girl, Ember. #KarelCast, #HolidayTragedy, #GunViolenceCrisis, #MassShooting, #HateCrime, #WorldInCrisis, #BreakingNews, #MentalHealthMatters, #StayingPositive, #HolidayGrief, #NewsCommentary, #ProgressiveVoices, #LGBTQVoices, #VeganLife, #EconomicStress, #TrumpImpact, #LasVegasCreator, #CurrentEvents, #EmberTheServiceDog, #PodcastLife https://youtube.com/live/jXM71p5usZk

'BradCast' 12/11/2025: Trump's Losing One Battle After Another by Progressive Voices

Is Netflix About to Own All of Entertainment? | Karel Cast 25-165 Netflix is reportedly pursuing a massive takeover of Warner Bros./HBO Max — and Hollywood is panicking. Warner Bros is one of the last legacy studios keeping theaters alive, producing films designed for the big screen. If Netflix buys it, everything changes. Will movies skip theaters entirely? Will only Marvel-level blockbusters survive at the box office? Are traditional dramas, comedies, and mid-budget stories about to vanish from theaters forever? Or… are we just clinging to nostalgia? Most people say they love the theater experience — but box office numbers don't lie. What would it take to get audiences back? Plus: What is Trump's endgame in Venezuela? It isn't complicated. He wants Maduro gone, wants the oil-rich nation reshaped to his demands, and won't stop until regime change aligns with his “America First” ambitions. But is that foreign policy — or imperialism in disguise? The Karel Cast is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel. Please like, subscribe, and share at youtube.com/reallykarel. Catch The Karel Cast Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Music, iHeart Media, Spotify, Spreaker, TikTok, and Instagram. #KarelCast, #NetflixNews, #WarnerBros, #HBOMax, #MovieTheaters, #StreamingWars, #HollywoodNews, #EntertainmentIndustry, #MediaTakeover, #FilmIndustry, #BoxOfficeDecline, #TrumpNews, #VenezuelaCrisis, #ForeignPolicy, #AmericaFirst, #PoliticalCommentary, #StreamingFuture, #CinemaLovers, #NewsAnalysis, #LasVegasCreator https://youtube.com/live/ENuTPbNZq6E

Green News Report 12/11/2025 by Progressive Voices

'BradCast' 12/10/2025: Dems Continue Stunning 2025 Election Streak by Progressive Voices

This time on Code WACK! Join us on a deep dive into the hidden forces behind soaring out-of-pocket costs, from rising medical costs to pandemic aftershocks and corporate profit pressures. Our guest, health insurance agent Sherry Davis Johnson, shares eye-opening stories from the front lines. We'll also explore how the Affordable Care Act has saved lives, what protections still matter most, and what it really takes to navigate today's healthcare maze. This is the second episode in a two part-series. Sherry Davis Johnson - a former nurse turned long–time insurance agent in Southern California - has seen our challenging healthcare system from every angle, as a nurse and home health provider, insurance agent and patient. Today, she's here to help us make sense of it all. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more! And please keep Code WACK! on the air with a tax-deductible donation.

Republicans Want You Sick, Tired, and Distracted | Karel Cast 25-164 Republicans are pushing policies that leave Americans with higher health premiums, fewer protections, and no real solutions—while Trump tries to rebrand “affordability” by blaming Democrats for an economy his party refuses to fix. Behind the scenes, GOP lawmakers are advancing legislation that completely ignores skyrocketing insurance rates. At the same time, the economy continues to slide, and the message from the right is loud and clear: Stay sick. Stay tired. Stay powerless. LGBTQ leaders are sounding the alarm as authoritarianism spreads through American institutions. “Stop thinking you're safe, because you're not,” one warns. From ICE disabling security cameras to secretive abuses of power, systems meant to protect us are instead targeting marginalized communities—especially LGBTQ Americans. This is why I've openly questioned staying in the United States. We're watching constitutional norms erode in real time, and history tells us who becomes the first target. The Karel Cast is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel. Please like, subscribe, and share at youtube.com/reallykarel. The Karel Cast streams Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST and is available on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Media, Spotify, Spreaker, TikTok, Instagram, and more. #KarelCast, #AmericanPolitics, #HealthcareCrisis, #GOPAgenda, #LGBTQRights, #Authoritarianism, #DemocracyAtRisk, #Trump2025, #USEconomy, #HealthInsuranceCrisis, #PoliticalCommentary, #ProgressiveVoices, #HumanRights, #SocialJustice, #LGBTQCommunity, #NewsAnalysis, #EconomicInequality, #SpeakTruthToPower, #ProtectDemocracy, #LasVegasCreator https://youtube.com/live/P8PFAF7tU2M

'BradCast' 12/9/2025: Dr. Michael E. Mann on authoritarian petro-states undermining climate action by Progressive Voices

Leslie is joined by Scott Kroona and Brad Lusk, members of Teamsters Local 120, which represents over 15,000 workers in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, and South Dakota. They discuss why their Union has authorized a strike at Actus Nutrition and Foremost Farms. They explain what has led to the strike, and how they and other dairy workers are pushing back against cuts to their health care, pensions, and other protections. The website for Teamsters Local 120 is www.TeamstersLocal120.org.

Green News Report 12/9/2025 by Progressive Voices

2025: The Year America Got Thinner — But Not Healthier | Media Power Grabs & Cancer Truths 2025 is being called “the year America shed” — with more people losing weight than ever thanks to fad diets, Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, and every quick-fix trend imaginable. But here's the shocking truth: Americans may be getting thinner, but not healthier. Why? Today we break down the real reasons behind the wellness illusion. Then, a massive story almost no one is paying attention to: the brewing Warner Bros. takeover battle. Donald Trump, backed by Saudi money and his son-in-law Jared Kushner, is pushing for a hostile takeover to compete with (and control) Netflix. What's the motive? What does it mean for media, entertainment, and democracy? We dig into the power dynamics behind the scenes. Plus — new, surprising research on cancer detection asks a provocative question: Should all cancers be found? The answer isn't what you think. The Karel Cast is funded by your support at patreon.com/reallykarel. Watch, like, comment, and subscribe at youtube.com/reallykarel. Listen on all major platforms: Apple Music, Spotify, iHeartMedia, Spreaker, and more. Catch the show Monday through Thursday at 10:30 AM PST, with daily clips on TikTok and Instagram. Karel is a history-making broadcaster based in Las Vegas with his service girl, Ember — bringing bold commentary, big stories, and unfiltered truth. #TheKarelCast, #2025Trends, #OzempicCulture, #WeightLossTruth, #Wegovy, #Zepbound, #AmericanHealthCrisis, #MediaTakeover, #WarnerBrosDeal, #TrumpNews, #JaredKushner, #SaudiMoney, #NetflixWar, #CancerResearch, #HealthMyths, #PoliticalCommentary, #NewsAnalysis2025, #LasVegasCreator, #LGBTQCommentator, #PodcastLife https://youtube.com/live/NPftX-i5_EU

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 Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch, an Immigration Attorney and Advocate. The pair discusses Trump's new efforts to block immigration from 19 countries he deemed 'high risk.' Kate also explains the details of the U.S. Supreme Court agreeing to take up one of President Trump's most contentious policies by reviewing the American legal principle of "birthright citizenship," potentially upending a 127-year-old understanding of who gets to be a U.S. citizen.  Kate and Brad also discussed how alarmingly frequent it has been for ICE to arrest and detain U.S. citizens for hours to even days, with some of them being assaulted in the process. Then, Center for American Progress's Natasha Murphy talks with Brad about healthcare, including premiums that are set to skyrocket at the end of the month if Republicans refuse to extend ACA tax credits. Natasha also breaks down why the Health Savings Account options, which many congressional Republicans are pushing as a replacement for ACA tax credits, do nothing to help pay for skyrocketing health insurance premiums themselves. Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch is also the Owner and CEO of Lincoln-Goldfinch Law. Their website is www.LincolnGoldfinch.com. Kate's handle is @AttorneyKLG on X, @attorneykatelg on Instagram, and @abogadakate on TikTok. Additionally, she's currently running for State Representative for Texas House district 50 as a Democrat. Natasha Murphy is the director of Health Policy at American Progress, where she develops and advances policy proposals to lower health care costs and improve health care coverage, affordability, and quality. 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' 12/8/2025 by Progressive Voices

Is It Going to Be A Dark Christmas? 25-163 Headline BBC: New US security strategy aligns with Russia's vision, Moscow says Headline ABC: Supreme Court to reconsider 90 year old precedent of limiting Presidential Powers to Fire Heads of Independent Agencies Headline Aaron Parnas: Trump Admin to instruct FBI to find extremist in the United States, including “radical gender ideology” , andi-ICE, pro-immigrant...including a way for people to turn people in. These are terrifying. Things are MUCH worse than we thought. But it's Christmas for goodness sake. People were out shopping, people were decorating, myself included. What else can we do? Panic? And while many are out shopping, most are charging it according to research. Credit Card debt is going to increase exponentially in December. Because life is expensive. So is this a last hurrah? The Karel Cast is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel Please watch, like and subscribe to the videos at youtube.com/reallykarel The Karel Cast is heard on all streaming services from Apple Music to iHeart Media, Spotify to Spreaker. The show is Monday through Thursday at 1030 am Live PST. It can also be seen on TikTok and Instagram. Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer currently in Las Vegas with his little service girl Ember. #TheKarelCast, #DarkChristmas, #USPolitics2025, #DemocracyAtRisk, #SupremeCourtWatch, #AuthoritarianThreats, #EconomicRealityCheck, #HolidayStress2025, #NewsCommentaryPodcast, #LasVegasCreator https://youtube.com/live/s6qLFBsASgE

'BradCast' 12/4/2025: Health care cliff hits January 1 by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 12/4/2025 by Progressive Voices

Why Are Humans Making Themselves Obsolete? The AI & Robot Dilemma | Karel Cast 25-162 Humans seem strangely driven to erase their own relevance. From the explosive rise of robotics to the unstoppable push toward advanced AI, we're building machines that can do nearly everything we do — often better, faster, and cheaper. But here's the real question: Why? Why are we creating technology that replaces us instead of supports us? Why are we racing toward automation knowing it will eliminate millions of jobs? Why are humans so willing — even eager — to make themselves obsolete? Today, we dive deep into the psychology behind humanity's self-destructive tech obsession, explore what it means for our future, and break down the news of the day as only Karel can. Support The Karel Cast: patreon.com/reallykarel Watch, Like & Subscribe: youtube.com/reallykarel Catch the show Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST on Apple Music, iHeart, Spotify, Spreaker, TikTok, Instagram, and everywhere you get your media. Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer in Las Vegas with his service dog Ember. #KarelCast, #AIRevolution, #AutomationDebate, #FutureOfWork, #RobotTakeover, #TechEthics, #HumanityAndAI, #DigitalFuture, #NewsCommentary, #TechDiscussion, #AIDebate, #TechnologyTrends, #RoboticsNews, #SocietyAndTech, #HumanBehavior, #MediaAnalysis, #SocialCommentary, #InnovationDebate, #AIImpact, #IndependentMedia https://youtube.com/live/Mf_8v2KbsUM

'BradCast' 12/3/2025: TN Special Election's 'Flashing Red Light Warning Sign' for GOP by Progressive Voices

Dozy Don Showing Cognitive Decline — And Why Won't the Media Say It? | Karel Cast 25-161 Donald Trump's behavior at his recent cabinet meeting raised serious questions about his cognitive health — from visibly bruised hands suggesting recent IVs or medical intervention, to falling asleep mid-meeting, to bizarre statements about “attacking boats on land.” Combined with years of confabulations, it's getting harder to ignore the signs of progressive dementia. So why is the media ignoring it? Today we ask the big, uncomfortable question: Is the media intentionally avoiding the truth about Trump's condition? Major outlets won't touch obvious inconsistencies — not even basic facts. Pete Hegseth's order wasn't a “war crime” because there is no declared war; it was premeditated murder. Trump's MRI at nearly 80 years old and out of shape could not realistically be “normal.” But corporate media refuses to challenge the narrative. Is this fear of corporate ownership? FCC pressure? Political backlash? And why are journalists ignoring the deadly decisions coming from Trump's own cabinet? Let's talk about what's actually happening — not the sanitized version the networks want you to hear. Support The Karel Cast: patreon.com/reallykarel Watch & Subscribe: youtube.com/reallykarel Streaming everywhere Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST — Apple, Spotify, iHeart, Spreaker, TikTok, Instagram and more. Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer based in Las Vegas with his service dog Ember. #TrumpNews, #MediaAccountability, #CognitiveDecline, #TrumpHealth, #PoliticalCommentary, #KarelCast, #NewsAnalysis, #DementiaDiscussion, #PressFailure, #CorporateMedia, #USPolitics, #WhiteHouseNews, #MediaBias, #TruthToPower, #InvestigativeNews, #BreakingPolitics, #ElectionCoverage, #TrumpAdministration, #RealTalk, #IndependentMedia https://youtube.com/live/pAeqG_W9SXU

This time on Code WACK! We're digging into big questions: Are reduced health insurance subsidies leaving Americans with a bad case of sticker shock? If you're shopping on the ACA marketplace, what should you watch out for before picking a plan? And what happens if you're pre-authorized for treatment in 2025, but can't afford to renew with the same plan in 2026? (It's not pretty.) For these answers and more, we talked to Sherry Davis Johnson — a former nurse turned long–time insurance agent in Southern California. Sherry has seen our challenging healthcare system from every angle, as a nurse and home health provider, insurance agent, and patient, having personally gone through five major surgeries in just two years. Today, she's licensed in health, property, casualty, accident, and life insurance — and she's here to help us make sense of it all. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more!

'BradCast' 12/2/2025: Politicization and weaponization of the Pentagon politicization by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 12/2/2025 by Progressive Voices

America Is Like White-Water Rafting: Chaos, Crisis & What Comes Next | Karel Cast 25-160 America feels less like a country and more like a white-water raft—tossing us through political chaos, rising costs, and nonstop crises. Today, we break down the latest wave of turbulence. Pentagon Pete explodes with “kill them all” rhetoric and then scrambles to shift blame onto an admiral after a devastating strike. Are we crossing the line into war crimes? What does it mean for America's moral standing? Meanwhile, Trump is spiraling as his approval ratings hit new lows, pushing him into full meltdown mode. And for everyday Americans, life isn't much calmer: health insurance premiums, co-pays, grocery bills, and gas prices feel like a roller coaster nobody agreed to ride. So is there any calm water ahead—or are the next three years going to be even rougher? Can the country withstand this level of instability? Plus, Luigi shows up looking sharp in court while trying to get the gun and key evidence thrown out. If he succeeds… does the case fall apart? Could he actually walk? The Karel Cast is powered by your support at patreon.com/reallykarel. Watch, like, and subscribe at youtube.com/reallykarel. Catch the show Mon–Thu at 10:30 AM PST across all major platforms including Apple Music, Spotify, iHeart, Spreaker, TikTok, and Instagram. Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer based in Las Vegas with his service dog Ember. #KarelCast, #AmericanPolitics, #WhiteWaterRaftingMetaphor, #USNewsAnalysis, #PentagonControversy, #WarCrimesDebate, #TrumpMeltdown, #EconomicStress, #HealthcareCrisis, #InflationTalk, #GroceryPrices, #GasPrices, #CourtDrama, #LegalAnalysis, #PoliticalCommentary, #NewsPodcast, #ProgressiveVoices, #LasVegasCreator, #TalkShowHost, #EmberTheDog https://youtube.com/live/Yux6ngmvbF0

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 Mabinty Quarshie, White House Reporter for the Washington Examiner. The two analyze President Trump's 36% approval rating in the new Gallup poll, which is the lowest of his term, and just two points shy of his lowest ever. They also discuss Trump's handling of the press, and what his low approval rating could mean for Republicans in next year's midterm elections. Then, Brad is joined by CNN Military Analyst Cedric Leighton (USAF-Ret.). The two discuss the Washington Post report that Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, authorized a highly unusual strike to kill all survivors of one of the Trump administration's attacks in recent months on boats allegedly carrying drugs in international waters. Next, they talk about Senator Mark Kelly's message to military service members about their duty to the U.S. constitution to not follow unlawful orders. Lastly, they discuss the prospects for a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia. Mabinty Quarshie's handle on X is @MabintyQ. 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 writes a political column every Sunday for 'The Hill.' He's on the National Journal's panel of political insiders and is a national political analyst for WGN TV and Radio in Chicago and KNX Radio in Los Angeles. You can read Brad's columns at www.MuckRack.com/Brad-Bannon. His handle on BlueSky is @bradbannon.bsky.social.  

'BradCast' 12/1/2025: Follow the Voting by Progressive Voices

This time on Code WACK! Will Humana and UnitedHealth Group be found by the courts to have prematurely denied or cut off physician-ordered post-acute care for Medicare Advantage members using AI models with error rates as high as 90%? And could these same AI tools, which over 60% of doctors allege systematically deny patients necessary care, be used in Traditional Medicare as well? The answer is YES, depending on where you live. To learn more, we spoke with Jeremy White, author of InHumana: An American Healthcare Story, published recently by White Lines Press. Jeremy and his wife, Edie, founded the award-winning satirical publication Red Shtick Magazine and its online version, The Red Shtick. They live in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This is the second episode of a two-part series with Jeremy about his new book. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more! And please keep Code WACK! on the air with a tax-deductible donation.

Leslie is joined by Roxanne Brown, President-Elect of the United Steelworkers. Currently serving as the Union's international Vice President, Brown will be sworn in to her new position on March 1, 2026. Following the USW's regular four-year nomination and election process that recently took place, Brown was elected to be the Union's new President! During today's interview, Leslie and Roxanne discuss how working families have taken major hits to their rights and their pocketbooks in 2025, thanks to the Trump administration. Before President Trump was elected, his advisors laid out a terrifying vision for the nation called, 'Project 2025.' And over the past year, working families have unfortunately borne the brunt of the administration rapidly enacting these policies. On top of this, the administration has failed to rein in – and in many ways added to – costs for necessities like groceries, energy and health care. Roxanne details how these attacks have hit bargaining rights for workers, veterans' benefits, workplace safety, healthcare and more. Taken together, we're seeing an economy in which the rich get a whole lot richer, while everyone else is lucky to scrape by, just as Trump planned. Follow the USW on Facebook, Instagram and X, using the handle @steelworkers, and visit their website at USW.org. Also, check them out on Blue Sky where their handle is @steelworkers.bsky.social. Roxanne's handle on X is @BrownRox.

Green News Report 11/20/2025 by Progressive Voices

'BradCast' 11/20/2025: President of United States Calls for Killing Democratic Officials by Progressive Voices

Is This the Final Unraveling of a President? | Karel Cast 25-154 A shocking scene unfolded as the former President once again lashed out—calling a female reporter “Quiet, Piggy,” simply for asking a question. And the media? Silent. Intimidated. Afraid he'd turn his rage on them next. Moments earlier he attacked another female journalist for daring to ask why a controversial Saudi Prince—an alleged criminal—was welcomed in the White House. The pattern is clear: escalating hostility toward women, toward the press, toward accountability. But beneath the insults lies something deeper. He's taking hit after hit: Democrats' major election wins, Congress refusing to kill the filibuster despite his demands, and his failed effort to block release of the Epstein files. The pressure is mounting, and the cracks are showing. Is this a man simply angry at the press… or a leader truly coming undone? And how dangerous is an a President who still controls the nuclear codes? We dive into the moment, the psychology, and the dangerous implications. Support The Karel Cast at patreon.com/reallykarel Watch, like, and subscribe at youtube.com/reallykarel The Karel Cast streams Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST on all major platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify, iHeart Media, Spreaker, TikTok, and Instagram. Karel is a history-making broadcaster based in Las Vegas with his service dog, Ember. #KarelCast, #PoliticsToday, #NewsAnalysis, #PresidentialPolitics, #WhiteHouseNews, #PressFreedom, #MediaMatters, #WomenInJournalism, #DemocracyAtRisk, #BreakingNews2025, #EpsteinFiles, #SaudiPrince, #CongressNews, #USPolitics, #Election2025, #PoliticalCommentary, #KarelLive, #LasVegasMedia, #ProgressiveVoices, #CurrentEvents https://youtube.com/live/E3RZKd-nTGI

The Student Debt Crisis Center takes over the airwaves of 'the Leslie Marshall Show,' where they cover the newest student loan updates, actions folks may need to take, potential changes to repayment plan options and forgiveness programs, and how you can make sure that you have the lowest monthly payment. This episode's SDCC hosts are President and Founder, Natalia Abrams, Executive Director, Sabrina Calazans, and Communications Associate Ángel Rentería. 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.

'BradCast' 11/19/2025: Is MAGA Splintering? by Progressive Voices