Progressive Voices

'BradCast' 1/22/2026: Jack Smith's public testimony in the House, new secret ICE memo, with legal expert Keith Barber by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 1/22/2026 by Progressive Voices

Is It Time to Leave the U.S.? Moving to Canada as America Unravels | The Karel Show The world is no longer whispering — it's saying it out loud. At Davos, global leaders openly criticized the United States, warning that under Donald Trump, America has become a threat to democracy, stability, and basic sanity. Even major U.S. outlets are now urging Europe not to back down — and to hold America accountable. These are extraordinary times, and the global consequences are accelerating. So what happens when Americans start asking the unthinkable question: Is it time to leave? In this episode, we're joined by Tom Moore, creator of the wildly popular YouTube channel Living in Halifax, to break down the realities of moving to Canada — not the fantasy, not the panic, but the actual how, why, and what-to-expect: • Immigration basics • Cost of living realities • Cultural differences • Why so many Americans are looking north • And who moving actually makes sense for This isn't fear-mongering — it's preparation. The Karel Show is live Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST, streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, Spreaker, and more — and simulcast on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. If you value independent commentary, support the show at patreon.com/reallykarel — and please like, subscribe, and share. Broadcasting from Las Vegas with my service dog Ember

This time on Code WACK! This time on Code WACK! In celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we're rebroadcasting this episode examining how desegregation shaped the experiences of Black patients in America – and what still hasn't changed. What does racism in medicine look like today? To break it down, we spoke to Dr. Barbara Berney, project creator and producer of the documentary “Power to Heal: Medicare and the Civil Rights Revolution.” She's also an emeritus professor at City University of New York School of Public Health and a distinguished scholar in public health, environmental justice, and the U.S. healthcare system. This is the second of two episodes with Dr. Berney. It originally aired in March of 2025. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more! Keep Code WACK! on the air with a tax-deductible donation at heal-ca.org/donate.

'BradCast' 1/21/2026: World Turning Against Self-Destructing U.S. Under Trump by Progressive Voices

Why Kids Are Spiraling, Markets Are Crashing & Adults Won't Step Up | The Karel Show 26-7 Something is breaking — socially, politically, and economically — and today's episode connects the dots. In Las Vegas, a man is suing the families of seven teens after a violent park attack. It's not an isolated incident. I've been attacked twice by kids on e-bikes myself. Across the country, young people are acting out with little consequence, little guidance, and little accountability — often raised by overwhelmed adults who were never prepared to raise anyone at all. We also look at Brooklyn Beckham going public in a way that reflects a much larger generational unraveling — and ask what happens when kids are raised by kids in a culture with no guardrails. Meanwhile, Donald Trump tanked the markets, threatened Greenland (yes, again), and sparked renewed calls — including from a sitting Senator — to invoke the 25th Amendment. Congress, as usual, does nothing. As conditions escalate rapidly, the question isn't if this gets worse — it's who will finally act. We also break down: • Peet's Coffee closing Bay Area locations • Starbucks downsizing nationwide • Whether the era of $10 coffee is finally ending • And yes — a determined coyote trying to reach Alcatraz

Leslie is joined by Jody Calemine, Director of Advocacy for the 63 Unions and 15 million members of the AFL-CIO. The two review President Trump's first year of his second term, and how it's been filled with relentless attacks on workers during his pursuit of 'Project 2025.' However, they also discuss how the labor movement is fighting back, and winning! The administration: - committed the single biggest-act of union-busting in history, - launched a brutal assault on immigrants and communities across the country, - ripped health care from millions, - made billionaires richer and corporations more powerful, - moved to unleash untested AI technology, - And dismantled government agencies that provide essential services. President Trump promised to “make America affordable again,” but instead, he spent a year driving up costs, holding down wages and letting jobs disappear—including jobs that would keep energy bills from skyrocketing. But in the face of relentless attacks on our livelihoods and freedoms, workers are turning to unions to fight back. And we're winning. In December we saw the first sprouts of victory when a bipartisan group of lawmakers canceled votes on the SCORE Act, succumbing to pressure after months of organizing from the labor movement. Then before the year ended, a group of bipartisan lawmakers passed a discharge petition advancing one of labor's top priorities: restoring federal workers collective bargaining rights. At the beginning of 2026, we saw lawmakers in the house rally around an extension of the ACA tax credits and a band of Republicans come together to sink a series of anti-worker labor bills. The website for the AFL-CIO is AFLCIO.org and their handle on Blue Sky is @AFLCIO.org. Their handle on Facebook, Instagram and X is @AFLCIO. Jody's handle on Blue Sky is @guerino.bsky.social.

'BradCast' 1/20/2026: Trump Admin's Endless Waste, Fraud, Abuse in Elections by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 1/20/2026 by Progressive Voices

Don Lemon Targeted, Nicki Minaj Melts Down & MAGA Shows Its Hand | Karel Cast 26-06 Journalism is under attack — and this episode shows exactly how and why. After Don Lemon covered a protest involving an ICE agent who also serves as a pastor, right-wing outrage machines went into overdrive. The backlash escalated so far that the DOJ reportedly sent a letter and placed Lemon on a list — simply for doing his job as a journalist. That alone should alarm anyone who believes in a free press. Then Nicki Minaj inserted herself into the moment with a homophobic attack that revealed far more about MAGA culture than about its target. As political loyalty collides with personal grievance, the mask slips — again. We also break down new revelations surrounding Donald Trump and his fixation on the Nobel Prize, including texts that shed light on his bizarre Greenland rhetoric and international posturing. On a lighter (and very Karel) note: • Learn how to make homemade dog biscuits to save money • A special EPK feature on my new single “I Dance Because”, honoring those we danced with — and those we dance for now The Karel Cast is live Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST, streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, Spreaker, and more — and simulcast on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. If you value independent journalism, consider supporting the show at patreon.com/reallykarel — and don't forget to like, subscribe, and share. Broadcasting from Las Vegas with my service dog Ember

The Unraveling of a Presidency | The Karel Show 26-05 The signs are no longer subtle — the Trump presidency is coming apart, fast. Across the globe, Europe prepares economic countermeasures as it becomes clear that intimidation no longer works. NATO moves to defend Greenland, responding to unprecedented threats and destabilization. At home, Minneapolis refuses to back down in the face of aggressive ICE tactics, while approval ratings sink to historic lows. The bluster is fading. The consequences are real. What's emerging is a dangerous truth: a would-be authoritarian pushing boundaries — and a world that is finally pushing back. So where is Congress? When does the legislative branch step up and prove it is not afraid to do its job? In the second half of the show, Karel looks inward — at a country that increasingly rejects education, culture, art, reading, and empathy, and instead celebrates ignorance and cruelty. How did America lose its sense of class, curiosity, and shared values — and can it be reclaimed? The Karel Show delivers unfiltered, thoughtful commentary on politics, culture, and modern life — without the shouting.

'BradCast' 1/15/2026: A Cornered Rat: Trump threatens MN, NATO, World, w/ Heather Digby Parton, 'Driftglass' by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 1/15/2026 by Progressive Voices

Iran, Israel & the CIA: When “Conspiracy” Starts Sounding Plausible | The Karel Show The word conspiracy gets thrown around easily — but sometimes the real-world facts are disturbing enough on their own. As protests erupt in Iran, the political fallout gives Donald Trump fresh justification to escalate tensions. The question becomes: who benefits if conflict expands? Israel? The United States? Powerful interests that thrive on instability? Karel examines why so many people are now willing to believe scenarios that once felt unthinkable — and what it says about the era we're living in. Meanwhile, the Senate makes a stunning move that effectively gives Trump wide latitude in Venezuela, raising serious questions about power, resources, and accountability — and why so few seem to be paying attention. Also in this episode: • Why the facts are often scarier than conspiracy theories • Why Karel is skeptical of CBS News' reporting on the alleged “internal bleeding” of an ICE officer • Voting season for the SAG Awards and Dorian Awards — and why this year's film slate feels oddly underwhelming The Karel Show delivers thoughtful, unfiltered commentary on global politics, media narratives, and culture — without the shouting or fear-bait.

'BradCast' 1/14/2026: 'Mad King Trump in Venezuela (and Beyond) with Nicholas Grossman, U. of Illinois by Progressive Voices

America Has Truly Lost the Plot | The Karel Show 26-03 It's 2026 — and America feels completely upside down. While the country faces real, urgent crises, the highest court in the land is debating whether fewer than 1,200 student athletes should be allowed to compete in sports because they are transgender — kids whose only “crime” was being born different and receiving medically supervised, professional care. Nine justices, behind closed doors, may decide whether young people get to pursue their dreams — while homelessness grows, injustice spreads, a nation turns on itself in the streets, and a president continues to run amok. Meanwhile, a beloved television actor is aggressively pursued over allegations he strongly denies, while documented abusers of underage girls hold real power on the world stage — a contradiction that exposes just how broken our moral compass has become. Plus: a seemingly simple online question about manicures unexpectedly explodes into a heated debate about women, time, labor, and modern expectations — revealing more about society than anyone expected. The Karel Show delivers unfiltered, thoughtful commentary on politics, culture, and everyday life — without the shouting.

'BradCast' 1/13/2026: Things are Getting Weirder as Trump Keeps Losing by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 1/13/2026 by Progressive Voices

What Do We Still Love? A Needed Reset in a Chaotic America | Karel Cast 26-02 Every day seems to begin with another headline designed to exhaust us. As Donald Trump's ongoing assault on American norms continues to dominate the news cycle, it's easy to wake up angry, anxious, or defeated. But today's episode asks a different — and necessary — question: What do we still love? What moments in your day bring warmth, comfort, or joy? Is it your dog? Cooking a favorite meal? Sharing food? Small rituals that remind you who you are? In this episode, Karel explores why remembering what we love is an act of resistance — and why grounding ourselves in simple joys may be essential for surviving this political moment. Plus: What do Germany, Turkey, Italy, Brazil, and Mexico all have in common? The answer may surprise you — and reveal something important about culture, food, and national identity. The Karel Cast delivers smart, unfiltered conversation on current events, culture, and modern life — without the shouting.

'BradCast' 1/12/2026: Former Police Chief Jim Bueermann on the ICE killing of Renee Good by Progressive Voices

2026: The Year to Reset — Taking Back Our Lives, Not Just Our Politics | The Karel Show They say insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. For many Americans, the past several years have felt exactly like that. Donald Trump has made daily life exhausting for anyone who isn't MAGA. Every day brings a new outrage. Every day he takes up more space in our heads. Every day the dark cloud he creates seeps into our lives, our relationships, and our sense of self. But here's the truth: you can fly above those clouds. And above them, there is still sunlight. I've lived under that cloud for nearly a decade — watching a country spin out of control — and I've become someone I no longer want to be. Angry. Reactive. Consumed. Like Peter Finch's character in Network, mad as hell and not willing to take it anymore. But rage alone doesn't win. Purpose does. It's time to be more like Stephen Colbert or Jimmy Kimmel — fully aware of what's happening, but refusing to let anger hollow us out. It's time for America to hit the hard reset. We can still take our country back — through elections, protests, Congress, and the courts. And if that fight fails, we face that reality when it comes. But we don't live every day in fury while we wait. Yes, the economy is hurting people. Food prices are soaring. Violence fills the headlines. None of that is imaginary. But if we let Trump take our joy, our compassion, our humanity — then he wins something far bigger than an election. That ends now. For me. And maybe for you, too. The Karel Show is supported by viewer donations at patreon.com/reallykarel Please watch, like, subscribe, and share at youtube.com/reallykarel The show streams on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Spreaker, and more — Monday through Thursday at 10:30 AM PT, and on TikTok and Instagram. Broadcasting from Las Vegas with my service girl Ember — this is The Karel Show. #2026, #ResetAmerica, #TheKarelShow, #USPolitics, #Trump, #MAGA, #PoliticalCommentary, #Democracy, #MentalHealth, #CultureShift, #CurrentEvents, #Election2026, #PoliticalReflection, #America, #MediaCriticism, #LiveYourBestLife, #PurposeOverRage, #NewsCommentary, #LasVegas, #Podcast https://youtube.com/live/c1OtZlTskB8

'BradCast' 1/8/2026: Trump to U.N., Rule of Law, World: DROP DEAD by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 1/8/2026 by Progressive Voices

'BradCast' 1/7/2026 (Guest: Election expert Marilyn Marks on 'nonsense' new claims about GA's 2020 election) by Progressive Voices

This time on Code WACK! As healthcare costs skyrocket and Americans face new coverage threats, California advocates are pushing for something bigger than simple fixes around the edges. We're joined by longtime healthcare organizer Michael Lighty, who breaks down the fight for single payer, what's at stake in 2026, and why unity may be the key to winning guaranteed healthcare for all. Michael is the president of Healthy California Now and has organized, advocated and developed policy for single payer Medicare for All nationally and in California for more than 30 years. This is the second episode in a two-part series with Michael Lighty. Check out the Transcripthttps://heal-ca.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Transcript-Lighty-01_05_2026.pdfand Show Notes for more! And please keep Code WACK! on the air with a tax-deductible donation.

Leslie is joined by Raul Torrez, Attorney General of New Mexico. Torrez is a career state and federal prosecutor who has served at every level of the justice system. Since taking office as New Mexico's 32nd Attorney General in 2023, he has made protecting children a central priority—holding major tech companies accountable for enabling online abuse and investigating systemic failures in the child welfare system. The two discuss Torrez's lawsuits against Meta and Snap Inc. In December 2023, A.G. Torrez filed a lawsuit against Meta Platforms, Inc., alleging that Facebook and Instagram enabled child sexual abuse and human trafficking. The complaint details how Meta's platforms allowed predators to exploit minors and how the company's algorithms contributed to the spread of harmful content. In September 2024, A.G. Torrez filed a lawsuit against Snap Inc., alleging that Snapchat's design features and algorithms facilitated child sexual exploitation and sextortion. The lawsuit claims that Snapchat misled users about the safety of its platform, particularly regarding disappearing messages, and failed to implement adequate safeguards for minors. Lastly, the pair shares information and resources on how parents can help protect their children online, and how to detect if their child may have experienced sexual abuse or exploitation online.

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 joined by CNN Military Analyst Cedric Leighton (USAF-Ret.). The two discuss Trump's capture of the Venezuelan President on their soil, and whether or not the action was lawful. Additionally, they posit whether this move by Trump undercuts the U.S. argument that China should keep its hands off of Taiwan. They also analyze the prospect of invading Cuba or Greenland, and the impact of a more Western Hemisphere-centric foreign policy on the security of the U.S. Lastly, the pair details Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's continued retribution against Senator Mark Kelly, a U.S. military veteran, for a video he was part of encouraging military members only to follow lawful orders. Then, Brad is joined by Sarah Jones, Editor-in-Chief of PoliticusUSA. The pair discusses the anniversary of the January 6th insurrection, as well as Jack Smith's recent testimony to Congress on how culpable President Trump is for the attack on our Capitol. Next, they preview the incoming cost increases for Americans' health insurance, thanks to the changes that Trump and Congressional Republicans have made to the Affordable Care Act. Finally, Sarah evaluates how possible it seems for Democrats to retake the House during this year's midterms, and whether the Senate could be attainable. 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. Sarah Jones' handle on BlueSky is @politicussarah.bsky.social and the website for PoliticusUSA is www.PoliticusUSA.com. 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' 1/6/2026: Jack Smith's Testimony on Trump's Jan. 6 Crimes by Progressive Voices

Green News Report 1/6/2026 by Progressive Voices

The Madness of King Trump: NATO, Venezuela, Greenland & a Nation on the Brink | The Karel Cast Is this still politics—or has it crossed into something far more dangerous? Venezuela's president claims he was kidnapped while insisting he remains in power. Colombia is on high alert, warning it will fight back if provoked. Denmark issues a chilling warning: if Donald Trump makes a move on Greenland, NATO itself could collapse. This isn't exaggeration anymore. This is the Madness of King Trump. If Congress fails to act, the consequences could be irreversible—not just for democracy, but for whether the United States even survives another 250 years. The warning signs are flashing everywhere. Plus: • A fatal mountain lion attack near a national park after months of “menacing” behavior—and why I'm unapologetically on Team Lion • A heartbreaking story of a mother who lost her son after he followed advice from a chatbot—why blind faith in AI is dangerous Sharp analysis. Uncomfortable truths. No sugarcoating. The Karel Cast is supported by viewer donations at patreon.com/reallykarel Please watch, like, subscribe, and share at youtube.com/reallykarel The show streams on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Spreaker, and more—Monday through Thursday at 10:30 AM PT, and on TikTok and Instagram. Broadcasting from Las Vegas with my service girl Ember—this is The Karel Cast. #Trump, #KingTrump, #PoliticalCrisis, #WorldNews, #NATO, #Greenland, #Venezuela, #Colombia, #USPolitics, #DemocracyInDanger, #Authoritarianism, #GlobalConflict, #PoliticalCommentary, #TheKarelCast, #NewsAnalysis, #AIethics, #ChatGPT, #MountainLion, #NationalParks, #CurrentEvents https://youtube.com/live/kGda_cUYKUA

'BradCast' 1/5/2026: Trump War on Venezuela is About Ego, Power, Creation of 'Alien Enemies' by Progressive Voices

An Unhinged President Crosses a Red Line: Is America Now at War? | The Karel Cast An out-of-control President has crossed an unthinkable line — invading a sovereign nation, detaining its President and First Lady, and declaring the United States will “run the country” indefinitely. That isn't diplomacy. It's an undeclared act of war, a violation of U.S. and international law, and a chilling step toward modern-day colonization. Even more disturbing? Congress is largely silent, slow-walking its response while one man accumulates extraordinary power. How does this end? Who finally steps up to challenge it? Plus — the devastating Swiss fire tragedy. As investigators search for causes and accountability, Karel asks an uncomfortable but necessary question after watching the footage: Why didn't they run? Is it shock, youth, denial — or something deeper about how we respond to danger? Also in this episode: • A sharp pet-peeve illustration • Leo questions whether Americans still have the stomach for one long-standing national tradition This is urgent, unsettling, and essential conversation. The Karel Cast is supported by viewers like you at patreon.com/reallykarel

This time on Code WACK! Today, we're talking about rising healthcare costs and the renewed momentum behind Medicare for All. Recent polling shows majority support for the idea across Democrats, independents, and even a notable share of Republicans, even when voters are told it would replace most private insurance and require higher taxes. As premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs continue to climb, healthcare affordability is once again at the forefront of the political debate. To help us unpack what's driving this support and whether it represents a real political opportunity, we're joined by longtime healthcare advocate and policy strategist Michael Lighty, president of Healthy California Now and former healthcare constituency director for the Bernie 2020 campaign. This is the first of two episodes with Michael Lighty. Check out the Transcript and Show Notes for more! And please keep Code WACK! on the air with a tax-deductible donation.

Happy New Year! Cooking Healthy, LGBTQ Headlines, and Hope for 2026 Happy New Year! On the first show of the year, we're starting exactly where so many of us want to be: healthier, grounded, and informed. I'll show you how to make an easy, delicious lentil pasta dish that's packed with protein, full of flavor, and simple enough for anyone to cook—perfect for easing into better habits without guilt or extremes. Then Scott Jacobson joins me for This Gay Week, breaking down the LGBTQ stories that are already shaping the start of the new year—from politics to culture to what our community should be watching closely right now. And of course, we'll take a moment to reflect on what we hope this new year can bring: more health, more honesty, more joy, and more room to just breathe.

Goodbye 2025: The Year That Changed Everything As 2025 comes to a close, it's time to pause—and take one last, honest look at a year that often felt overwhelming. The first year of Trump's return to power reshaped politics almost daily, while breakthroughs and breakdowns across science, health, entertainment, and pop culture competed for our attention nonstop. Some stories inspired hope. Others shocked, exhausted, or divided us. And many lived somewhere in the uncomfortable middle. This episode of The Karel Cast puts 2025 into a time capsule—connecting the dots between the moments that defined the year and asking what they mean as we step into the future. If you felt like 2025 was a lot… you weren't wrong. Let's talk about the year that was.

Erik Dane on ALS, Disability Visibility, and Refusing to Give Up Erik Dane—forever remembered by many as “McSteamy” from Grey's Anatomy—has lived much of his career in the spotlight. From blockbuster films to hit television shows, and more recently capturing a new generation on Euphoria, his career has continued to evolve. But in April 2025, at the height of renewed success, Dane was diagnosed with ALS—a devastating disease with no cure. Now using a wheelchair, Erik Dane is still acting, still creating, and still showing up. He recently appeared on Brilliant Minds and participated in a powerful media panel discussing the role, disability visibility, and what it means to continue working in an industry that rarely makes space for visible illness. We bring you that panel—and the conversation it sparked. As we look ahead to the new year, Erik Dane's story is a profound reminder of two essential truths: nothing matters more than your health, and even when your body isn't cooperating, your dreams don't have to end.

Why New Year's Resolutions Fail, SF Takes on Junk Food, and This Gay Week It's New Year's resolution season—but what if making resolutions is actually setting yourself up to fail? As millions promise dramatic life changes, we take a hard look at why New Year's resolutions often backfire, fuel shame, and create unrealistic expectations instead of real growth. Plus, San Francisco is taking an aggressive stand against junk food, filing lawsuits aimed at companies that profit from unhealthy products. Is this smart public health policy—or government overreach into what we eat? And Scott Jacobson joins me for This Gay Week, breaking down the latest LGBTQ news, culture, and political developments you need to know as we head into the new year.

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