Podcasts about Freedom From Religion Foundation

We announce two new lawsuits this week that FFRF is taking with a coalition of state/church groups. The first challenges the placement of statues of Catholic saints at the entrance of the public safety building in Quincy, Massachusetts. The second challenges a new Texas measure that mandates the placement of the Ten Commandments in every public school classroom. Then, we speak with Pulitzer Prize finalist Rollo Romig, author of the book I Am on the Hit List: A Journalist's Murder and the Rise of Autocracy in India.

This week we honor the life and work of our friend, the Broadway composer Charles Strouse—who died last week at age 96—who wrote "Annie" and "Bye Bye Birdie" and many other musicals and songs, by hearing some of his music, including "Poor Little Me," which he co-wrote with FFRF Co-President Dan Barker. Then, we speak with journalist Talia Lavin, author of the book Wild Faith: How the Christian Right Is Taking Over America.

It's Friday, May 16th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Nigerian Muslims kill 2 Christian teachers Boko Haram Muslim terrorists recently targeted Christians traveling near a Nigerian army base along the deadly Damboa–Maiduguri highway, reports International Christian Concern. On May 12th, two Christian teachers were killed and several others were injured when their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device allegedly planted by the Islamic terror group. Blessing Luka and Gideon Bitterleaf were both devoted Christian educators with the Damboa Local Education Authority. Pray that these Muslim murderers will be held accountable. Genesis 9:6 says, "Whoever sheds human blood, by humans shall their blood be shed; for in the image of God has God made mankind." More children in United Kingdom have gender dysphoria Soaring numbers of children in England and Wales are waiting for specialist gender care from the National Health Service -- as youngsters of any age are now eligible for referral after the health service “caved to the pressure” of transgender activists to remove age limits, reports The Daily Mail and World Magazine. Average waiting times have grown to more than two years for a confused child to get a first appointment at a specialist health service clinic, with 157 of those aged under ten. There were 6,225 confused kids on the national waiting list at the end of March. That's up 12 per cent from the same point a year earlier. Young children believed to have gender dysphoria are generally given counselling and therapy with their family, but thankfully no longer prescribed hormone treatments.  Indeed, Britain's National Health Service has moved away from a “medical model” in favor of a “holistic” approach to children's gender care, as per recommendations from the Cass Review. Puberty blockers are no longer prescribed to children for the treatment of gender dysphoria, after a ban last year was made permanent in December. Former FBI Director calls for Trump's assassination Former FBI Director James Comey is facing massive backlash after he posted a photo on his Instagram page calling for the assassination of President Donald Trump, reports Christian Talk show host Todd Starnes. An image of seashells that had been arranged on the beach to spell “86 47” was posted on Comey's personal Instagram account. The number “86” is code for killing someone. And, of course, “47” refers to the fact that Donald Trump is the 47th president of the United States. Comey wrote, “Cool shell formation on my beach walk.” Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem tweeted, “Disgraced former FBI Director James Comey just called for the assassination of President Trump. [the Department of Homeland Security] and Secret Service is investigating this threat and will respond appropriately.” And Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama tweeted, “This is a direct THREAT against President Trump, who has already survived two assassination attempts. BEYOND despicable. James Comey MUST face consequences.” RFK Jr. agrees to examine the dangers of Abortion Kill Pill A recent study by the Ethics and Public Policy Center on the Abortion Kill Pill, mifepristone, showed that 11% of women experience adverse effects serious enough to send them to the Emergency Room. That's 22 times higher than what the Food and Drug Administration claims.   Appearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee on May 15th, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. agreed to a comprehensive review and relabeling of Mifepristone in response to a pointed question from Republican Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri, reports The Guardian. Listen. HAWLEY: “There's been a major study by the Ethics and Public Policy Center of 865,727 prescribed cases of mifepristone abortions, chemical abortions, between 2017 and 2023. This data shows the biggest study on mifepristone done, I think, ever, and it showed that nearly 11% of women experience very serious adverse health effects to include sepsis, hemorrhaging, infection, of course, emergency room visits. That rate is 22 times higher than the FDA's current label which says it's just 0.5 the incidence of serious adverse health events. “So, my question to you is this: You previously testified at the committee that you would do a top-to-bottom review of mifepristone. Do you continue to stand by that? And don't you think that this new data shows the need to do a review is, in fact, very pressing?” KENNEDY: “It's alarming, and clearly it indicates that, at very least, the label should be changed. I've asked Marty Makary, who's the director of FDA, to do a complete review and to report back.” HAWLEY: “Good!” South Carolina Supreme Court affirms Heartbeat Law The South Carolina Supreme Court ruled that the state may enforce its heartbeat-based abortion ban, rejecting an argument by Planned Parenthood to weaken the law, reports LifeSiteNews.com. Enacted in 2023, the law effectively bans most abortions after about six weeks gestation. South Carolina Republican Governor Henry McMaster told the Daily Wire, “Time and time again, we have defended the right to life in South Carolina, and time and time again, we have prevailed. Today's ruling is another clear and decisive victory that will ensure the lives of countless unborn children remain protected and that South Carolina continues to lead the charge in defending the sanctity of life.” Psalm 127:3 says, "Children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward." Christian band under fire by atheists and superintendent And finally, a popular Christian band is under fire from atheists along with Davidson County Schools in North Carolina, reports Blue Ridge Broadcasting. The 3 Heath Brothers band had been invited to host an anti-bullying event at Hasty Elementary School. Their performance included a number of songs that mentioned God. Afterwards, they gave the kids a devotional pamphlet that included Bible verses. The Freedom From Religion Foundation was enraged over the performance and accused the school of being a recruiting ground for Christianity. The God-hating attorney, Madeline Ziegler, wrote, “The district cannot allow non-school persons to treat schools as a recruiting ground for their religious mission.  Public schools are not an appropriate place for outside adults to convince students to convert to Christianity.” Sadly, the School Superintendent Gregg Slate was just as horrified with the Christian band and wrote a lengthy letter of apology to the atheists. But then, the school district went a step further. They had the audacity to demand that the 3 Heath Brothers remove video of the event from their social media pages. A bizarre request indeed. School officials claim they were duped. But Nicholas Heath of the 3 Heath Brothers denied that there was any proselytizing or worship service at the event. Close And that's The Worldview on this Friday, May 16th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Welcome to The Sour Lemon Special! Every week, we break down the most outrageous, corrupt, and downright awful behavior from the people in power—and this time, we've got a stacked lineup of contestants. Who will take home the title of this week's Sour Lemon? You decide! Join Don and comedian Akilah Hughes to break it all down! This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode of The Don Lemon Show is sponsored by 120 Life. Go to https://120life.com and use the code, “D-O-N ” to save 20% This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Catch Don Lemon and DL Hughley at City Winery NYC Live on Monday, June 23rd at 7:30 PM! Buy tickets here: https://citywinery.com/new-york-city/events/dl-dl-anything-goes-don-lemon-and-dl-hughley-5hj4zs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just when you thought we'd hit peak dystopia, DHS and “ICE Barbie” Kristi Noem are reportedly considering a new reality show where immigrants compete for U.S. citizenship. Yes, seriously. The working title? “The American.” Because apparently, we're now turning human rights into primetime entertainment. How would it work? Who decides who's “American enough”? And how did we go from give us your tired, your poor to give us a good camera angle and a sob story? Don breaks down the terrifyingly real details of this immigration-as-reality-TV nightmare and what it says about the current administration's obsession with cruelty as content. Because apparently deportation wasn't humiliating enough without a ratings bump. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode of The Don Lemon Show is sponsored by 120 Life. Go to https://120life.com and use the code, “D-O-N ” to save 20% This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don sits down with the authors of Cop Cop: Breaking the Fixed System of American Policing for a powerful conversation about what's really broken in U.S. law enforcement and how we start to fix it. From entrenched culture to lack of accountability, they unpack how the system too often protects itself instead of the people it serves...and how marginalized communities bear the brunt of the consequences. What would real reform look like? And is it even possible without completely rethinking the role of police in American society? It's honest, urgent, and a conversation we need right now. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode of The Don Lemon Show is sponsored by 120 Life. Go to https://120life.com and use the code, “D-O-N ” to save 20% This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode of The Don Lemon Show is sponsored by Wild Alaskan. Go to wildalaskan.com/LEMON for $35 off your first box of premium, wild-caught seafood. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump is on a deportation spree, shipping out refugees from across the globe, often without due process. But somehow, white South African farmers are being welcomed with open arms. Wonder why? (Spoiler: it's racism.) To break down what's really happening in South Africa and where this “white genocide” myth came from, Don sits down with Simon Allison, co-founder of The Continent and one of the smartest voices covering the region. They unpack the dangerous misinformation fueling U.S. immigration policy, what the data actually says (hint: there is NO white genocide), and how South Africa's complex challenges are being twisted to serve far-right fantasies. It's time to separate fact from fear-mongering and call out the hypocrisy for what it is. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode of The Don Lemon Show is sponsored by 120 Life. Go to https://120life.com and use the code, “D-O-N ” to save 20% This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode of The Don Lemon Show is sponsored by Wild Alaskan. Go to wildalaskan.com/LEMON for $35 off your first box of premium, wild-caught seafood. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Diddy trial continues to grip the nation. After Cassie Ventura's emotional testimony, all eyes are on what's next. This morning, TMZ's Charles Latibeaudiere joins Don to break down the latest developments, the legal implications, and where this high-profile case may be headed. Then we pivot to the ongoing political chaos, because what else would 2025 bring? Trump is reportedly accepting a $400 million private jet from Qatar. Yes, you read that right. No, it's not ethically allowed. But that hasn't stopped him before. The grift is no longer subtle, and even some MAGA loyalists are starting to squint a little at the golden plane-shaped red flag. Scandal, corruption, and courtroom drama...it's all happening. Tune in.

Buckle up, Lemon Nation, today's news cycle is doing the most. First up, the Diddy trial continues, with Cassie Ventura testifying for a second day. The details? Let's just say they're deeply disturbing and very, very salacious. We'll break down the latest from inside the courtroom and what it could mean going forward. Then, Grok AI (yes, Musk's pet chatbot project) is apparently serving up “white genocide” conspiracy content without even being asked. Let's be clear: white genocide is not happening in South Africa...but disinformation definitely is, and now AI is helping spread it. And finally, an update on the Menendez brothers. We've got new developments in their sentencing saga, decades after the case first captivated the country. Celebrity scandal, AI chaos, and a true crime twist...welcome to 2025. Let's get into it.

Trump is now calling for pharmaceutical price cuts and floating tax hikes on the rich, and suddenly long-held GOP talking points are… looking suspiciously like Democratic policies. So what's happening here? Is this the dawn of Trumpian socialism? Or are Democratic ideas only “evil” until Trump decides to rebrand them as his own? Let's dive into the ideological blender that is MAGA in 2025. Do they have any real principles? Or is the platform now just “whatever Dear Leader said this morning on Truth Social”? It's not left. It's not right. It's just chaos in a red hat. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text DON to 511 511 and become a member today. This episode of The Don Lemon Show is sponsored by 120 Life. Go to https://120life.com and use the code, “D-O-N ” to save 20% This episode is brought to you by Beam. Visit https://shopbeam.com/LEMON and use code LEMON to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode of The Don Lemon Show is sponsored by Wild Alaskan. Go to wildalaskan.com/LEMON for $35 off your first box of premium, wild-caught seafood. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tonight, we're diving into the chaos of the day...because there's a lot. First up: Trump's tariff “win” that's actually a loss. He blinked, paused the China tariffs, and now he's trying to spin it like a masterstroke. Don't fall for it. When the markets tank and you retreat, that's called backing down, not “playing 4D chess.” Then we get into the deeply telling policy shift: White South African farmers are being granted refugee status, while Black and brown refugees are being thrown into mass detention centers with no due process. Tell us more about how this isn't about race. And finally, we'll bring you the latest in the Diddy trial. What happened in court today, what's next, and what it means as this high-profile case unfolds. Joining us tonight: journalist and author Jemele Hill, and attorney and author Areva Martin...two sharp minds to help us unpack it all. Grab a drink. It's going to be a ride.

We have some good state/church news to report out of Oklahoma and Arizona. Then, in response to Trump's remarks at the May 1 "National Day of Prayer," we celebrate the May 4 "National Day of Reason" by hearing impassioned and humorous remarks at the Second Annual "Reason Reception" in D.C., sponsored by FFRF, American Humanist Association and the Secular Coalition for America, for the Congressional Freethought Caucus. The "Very Funny Lady" comedian Leighann Lord kicked off the event, followed by U.S. Reps. Jared Huffman, Calif., Jamie Raskin, Md., Laura Friedman, Calif., and a poignant keynote by former Rep. Susan Wild, Pa.

Trump's new pick for Surgeon General is raising eyebrows...and blood pressure. Known for pushing pseudo-science and questioning actual medical consensus (because of course), she's exactly the kind of anti-expert the MAGA base usually loves. But here's the twist: her nomination is causing serious infighting within the movement. Turns out, not everyone is on board with Trump's pick. So what does this say about the future of healthcare in America? And what happens when political loyalty trumps medical qualifications? This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “DON” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The conclave has spoken and the world has a new Pope. He's a centrist, aiming to balance tradition with modernity. But of course, that's not sitting well with the MAGA crowd, who were apparently hoping for a pope that quoted Fox News and issued communion with a side of culture war. Now, right-wing Twitter is in meltdown mode, accusing the Vatican of “going woke” (because what isn't woke these days?) and demanding a pope who reflects their version of morality. This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “DON” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we're digging into the explosive story behind Mr. Deepfakes, the man behind one of the most prolific non-consensual AI porn sites, who has finally been exposed. While he made money off stolen faces and fake fantasies, real women suffered the consequences: reputations damaged, careers impacted, and trauma inflicted without ever stepping in front of a camera. Don is joined by Laurie Segall, the CEO of Mostly Human Media, to break down the investigation, the tech loopholes that let this thrive, and what this moment says about the urgent need for regulation and accountability in the world of AI-generated exploitation. It's not just creepy, it's criminal. And it's time to talk about it. Follow Laurie Segall @mostlyhumanmedia This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “DON” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The chaos continues under the Trump administration, and today's headlines are a brutal reminder of just how messy things have gotten. Fed Chair Jerome Powell is now warning of stagflation. You know, that fun economic cocktail of rising prices and slowing growth. Meanwhile, FAA budget cuts are hitting hard, and it shows: Newark Airport is reportedly a disaster zone, with delays, staffing shortages, and confusion piling up faster than the luggage. Oh, and while America spirals, the world is watching the Vatican as the conclave prepares to choose a new Pope. So… no pressure. Let's break down the economic instability, the transportation chaos, and what to expect as the Catholic Church looks for its next leader...all while the U.S. continues its descent into dysfunction. This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “DON” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Because nothing says “freedom” like bringing back Alcatraz, Trump has now floated the idea of reopening the infamous prison island. Yes, that Alcatraz, the one we turned into a museum because we thought we were done with locking people away on remote rocks. So… why now? And who does he plan to put there? (Spoiler: it's probably not white-collar criminals or corrupt politicians.) Is this just another MAGA stunt? Or are we watching the early stages of state-sponsored prison camps take shape right before our eyes? Let's break down the absurdity, the authoritarian undertones, and the truly dystopian vibes coming from the Trump administration's latest "idea." Because apparently the 2025 policy agenda is now just one bad Netflix thriller at a time. This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “DON” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's Oval Office meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Carney, Trump once again leaned into his favorite fantasy: annexing Canada. After Carney firmly asserted that Canada is not for sale, Trump smirked and replied, “Never say never.” Yes, this is real life. As America spirals through economic instability and global backlash, Trump is out here cosplaying land baron like it's 1867. This kind of strongman land-grab nonsense isn't just embarrassing, it's isolating the U.S. further on the world stage. Let's break down the latest diplomatic facepalm and what it says about Trump's obsession with power, borders, and ignoring reality. This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “DON” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's another chaotic day in the news cycle, and we're breaking it all down. First up: Trump's interview with Kristen Welker, where he served up a fresh batch of lies, deflections, and victimhood, and then cried “unfair” the moment she pushed back with facts. (We've seen this movie before. It never gets better.) Then we head to Georgia, where Governor Brian Kemp just announced he's not running for Senate, potentially clearing the way for a possible run by none other than Marjorie Taylor Greene. Because apparently we're trying to hit that “worst-case scenario.” And finally, we'll cover the latest in the Diddy case, where jury selection has officially begun in what's shaping up to be one of the most high-profile and controversial trials of the year. Politics, ego, and celebrity scandal...welcome to a typical Monday in America.

This weekend, Trump sat down with Kristen Welker, and—shocker—it went exactly how you'd expect. He made a parade of false and misleading claims, dodged every substantive question, and the moment he was actually pressed on facts? He whined that the interview was unfair. Because in Trump World, being held accountable = media bias. Same script, different day. Let's get into it. This episode is sponsored by Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at SHOPIFY. COM/lemon This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “DON” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mayday! Mayday! We listen to some of the oral arguments in a pivotal Supreme Court case heard Wednesday about whether a private Catholic charter school can be funded with public money. If allowed, this would deal a serious blow to public education. After reporting on state/church news in Oklahoma, Louisiana and Texas, and decrying Attorney General Pam Bondi's “Eradicating Anti-Christian Bias” Task Force, we talk with Swedish humanist Christer Sturmark, author of the book To Light the Flame of Reason: Clear Thinking for the Twenty-First Century.

A legal dispute between Freedom From Religion Foundation and American Atheists over a donor's estate raised eyebrows—but the reality was far less dramatic. After questions emerged over a handwritten memo altering distribution plans, the parties sought transparency, not a fight. The case was settled amicably, with all organizations receiving more than expected. The panel unpacks lessons in ethics, optics, and legacy.News Source: Friendly Atheist by Hemant Mehta, April 8, 2025https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/two-influential-atheist-groups-have?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=oa4eg&triedRedirect=trueThe Non-Prophets 24.16.3 with Scott Dickie, Jonathan Roudabush and Eli Slack Two Atheist Groups Settle Estate Dispute Peacefully

We first do a round-up of the news nationally and globally, including the death of Pope Francis and the Trump administration's setting up of a dubious religion-based task force. Then, guest host FFRF Communications Director Amitabh Pal interviews University of Louisville Professor David T. Buckley on his recent book, Blessing America First: Religion, Populism and Foreign Policy in the Trump Administration. Barbra Streisand's songs provide the soundtrack to the show. 

We know—everything feels heavy right now. The political madness, the economic uncertainty, the nonstop outrage machine… it's a lot. So this Good Friday, we're doing something a little different. Instead of our usual Sour Lemon Special, Don is joined by the incredible Iyanla Vanzant—life coach, spiritual teacher, and bestselling author—for a much-needed conversation about how we heal. How we take care of ourselves. And how we start to reconnect with each other in a world that feels like it's falling apart. No screaming headlines. No doomscrolling. Just a chill check-in with Lemon Nation before we head into the holiday weekend. You've earned a breather—join us. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Kilmar Abrego Garcia case just took another wild turn—an appeals court judge (yes, a Republican) just slammed the Trump administration for its blatant disregard of the Supreme Court's order. Meanwhile, MAGA world is scrambling to rewrite the narrative, painting Abrego Garcia as a villain to justify deporting him without due process. But here's the twist: even some GOP members are calling this what it is—unconstitutional and dangerous. Don goes live to unpack the legal outrage, the political spin, and why this case could be a tipping point in the fight over the rule of law. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we report that Christian nationalism is on full display at all levels of government. After covering national state/church news, FFRF Senior Policy Counsel Ryan Jayne tells us about the many bills, good and bad, that FFRF's Action Fund is tracking in the states (and Puerto Rico). Then, George Mbuagbaw, acting president of the Humanist Association of Nigeria, tells us about the many nonbelievers in that part of West Africa.

Defying Supreme Court rulings. Weaponizing the DOJ against critics. Attacking the free press—again. At this point, the Trump administration isn't just testing the limits of democracy... it's tearing up the rulebook and daring anyone to stop them. So has Trump officially crossed into anti-constitutional territory? And if so—where the hell do we go from here? Don goes live to break it all down: the legal defiance, the authoritarian vibes, and the growing sense that we're watching the Constitution get slow-roasted in real time. It's serious. It's outrageous. And it's time to pay attention. The Don Lemon Show is up for a Webby! Vote now for Best Podcast Episode – Featured Guest: https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2025/podcasts/individual-episode/featured-guest This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The FCC is now going after Comcast for so-called “news distortion” after MSNBC didn't carry a White House press briefing on deportations. Coincidence? Not likely—especially when the complaint came straight from inside the White House. This isn't a one-off. Trump's been on a rampage against the press—attacking 60 Minutes, blacklisting outlets, and weaponizing federal agencies against factual reporting. It's not just petty. It's textbook authoritarianism. Don breaks down the latest assault on the free press, why this isn't just about cable news, and what we can actually do as this crosses into full-blown fascist behavior. Because when power fears facts, everyone should be paying attention. The Don Lemon Show is up for a Webby! Vote now for Best Podcast Episode – Featured Guest: https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2025/podcasts/individual-episode/featured-guest This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “DON” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

They're back. A year after our first viral conversation, the three biggest voices in progressive podcasting—David Pakman, Brian Tyler Cohen, and Cenk Uygur—are joining Don once again to break down the chaos gripping the country. Trump's tariffs are wrecking the economy, the markets are tanking, and now he's openly defying a Supreme Court order. Are we teetering on the edge of a constitutional crisis? Is this what a dictatorship looks like in 2025? No spin, no fluff—just smart, sharp takes from four people who don't mince words. Lemon Nation, you're not gonna want to miss this one. The Don Lemon Show is up for a Webby! Vote now for Best Podcast Episode – Featured Guest: https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2025/podcasts/individual-episode/featured-guest This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Trump administration wrongfully deported Abrego Garcia—and they know it. They've even admitted it was a mistake. But despite a 9-0 Supreme Court ruling ordering the administration to facilitate his return, they're refusing to bring him back. So now the question is: can Trump be held in contempt of court? Democratic lawmakers are headed to El Salvador to fight for Garcia's return, because apparently court orders—and basic human decency—aren't enough to move this administration. Don breaks it all down: the legal mess, the political fallout, and what this says about a government that's playing games with people's lives. It's outrageous, it's dangerous, and it's happening right now. The Don Lemon Show is up for a Webby! Vote now for Best Podcast Episode – Featured Guest: https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2025/podcasts/individual-episode/featured-guest This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Good Evening Lemon Nation. Harvard president Alan Garber has rejected the Trump administration's request to change DEI programs and other widespread campus reforms. In response, Trump has frozen 2 billion dollars in funding and is threatening to remove the school's tax-exempt status. What caused the university to stand up against the president? Will this courage spread to other universities? Join Don and Gen-Z Historian Kahlil Greene to break down this fight! The Don Lemon Show is up for a Webby! Vote now for Best Podcast Episode – Featured Guest: https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2025/podcasts/individual-episode/featured-guest This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. WATCH & Subscribe on YouTube @TheDonLemonShow! Become a member of our channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXs0PlIGUDSXfBaF7j-1euA/join Follow Don on Substack at donlemon.com! Listen on Apple, Spotify and iHeart Radio! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Good Morning Lemon Nation! The Trump administration likes to pretend like they're accomplishing their goals but we can always see through the smoke and mirrors, and we know you can too. Join Don at 10am this morning to break down the MAGA lies. The Don Lemon Show is up for a Webby! Vote now for Best Podcast Episode – Featured Guest: https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2025/podcasts/individual-episode/featured-guest This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. WATCH & Subscribe on YouTube @TheDonLemonShow! Become a member of our channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXs0PlIGUDSXfBaF7j-1euA/join Follow Don on Substack at donlemon.com! Listen on Apple, Spotify and iHeart Radio! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"He has Risen! He has Risen INDEED!" That's the message that came not from River City Community Church but from the White House! President Donald Trump not only recognized Holy Week, his statement basically shares the Gospel. Pastor Sean emphasizes the importance of religious liberty, and the exchange of ideas. The Freedom FROM Religion Foundation doesn't agree. Enjoy the conversation and see you at River City for Easter! 00:00 Introduction to Easter Celebration00:16 Invitation to Easter Services at River City01:06 Reaching for Real Life Podcast Begins02:27 Musical Inspirations and Easter Preparations03:28 Holy Week and Its Significance05:57 President Trump's Holy Week Message10:52 Discussion on Religious Liberty and Christian Nationalism12:18 Debunking the Separation of Church and State Myth13:07 Atheist in Foxhole Award and Its Implications13:35 Misinterpretations of the Constitution14:34 Christian Nationalism: A Misunderstood Concept16:35 The President's Faith and Its Public Perception17:36 Freedom of Religion vs. Freedom from Religion18:07 The Role of Faith in Presidential Leadership23:19 The President's Easter Message25:08 Invitation to Easter Services

"He has Risen! He has Risen INDEED!" That's the message that came not from River City Community Church but from the White House! President Donald Trump not only recognized Holy Week, his statement basically shares the Gospel. Pastor Sean emphasizes the importance of religious liberty, and the exchange of ideas. The Freedom FROM Religion Foundation doesn't agree. Enjoy the conversation and see you at River City for Easter! 00:00 Introduction to Easter Celebration00:16 Invitation to Easter Services at River City01:06 Reaching for Real Life Podcast Begins02:27 Musical Inspirations and Easter Preparations03:28 Holy Week and Its Significance05:57 President Trump's Holy Week Message10:52 Discussion on Religious Liberty and Christian Nationalism12:18 Debunking the Separation of Church and State Myth13:07 Atheist in Foxhole Award and Its Implications13:35 Misinterpretations of the Constitution14:34 Christian Nationalism: A Misunderstood Concept16:35 The President's Faith and Its Public Perception17:36 Freedom of Religion vs. Freedom from Religion18:07 The Role of Faith in Presidential Leadership23:19 The President's Easter Message25:08 Invitation to Easter Services

Today was an especially alarming day at the White House. El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele visited Donald Trump to discuss the relationship between the two countries, specifically relating to U.S. deportations to El Salvadorian prisons. Bukele says he will not be returning the wrongly deported Kilmar Abrego Garcia, and spoke with Trump about the next phase of U.S. "homegrown" deportations. What does this mean? Join Don at 5pm to hear more. The Don Lemon Show is up for a Webby! Vote now for Best Podcast Episode – Featured Guest: https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2025/podcasts/individual-episode/featured-guest This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. WATCH & Subscribe on YouTube @TheDonLemonShow! Become a member of our channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXs0PlIGUDSXfBaF7j-1euA/join Follow Don on Substack at donlemon.com! Listen on Apple, Spotify and iHeart Radio! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Monday Lemonheads! As much as Trump hopes, China is not backing down in the tariff war. And after Trump exempted phones and computers from the tariffs, he now threatens them once more. What is next? Why does it feel like groundhog day every day? Tune in at 10am to find out! The Don Lemon Show is up for a Webby! Vote now for Best Podcast Episode – Featured Guest: https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2025/podcasts/individual-episode/featured-guest This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. WATCH & Subscribe on YouTube @TheDonLemonShow! Become a member of our channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXs0PlIGUDSXfBaF7j-1euA/join Follow Don on Substack at donlemon.com! Listen on Apple, Spotify and iHeart Radio! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Sour Lemon Special! Every week, we break down the most outrageous, corrupt, and downright awful behavior from the people in power—and this time, we've got a stacked lineup of contestants. Who will take home the title of this week's Sour Lemon? You decide! Join Don and comedian and author Dulcé Sloan to break it all down! The Don Lemon Show is up for a Webby! Vote now for Best Podcast Episode – Featured Guest: https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2025/podcasts/individual-episode/featured-guest This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Trump's tariff chaos still unfolding, the economy looks like it's headed off a cliff. The markets are shaky, the value of the dollar is dropping, and global confidence in American stability? Rapidly evaporating. So… when does this end? Or has the Trump administration already done irreversible damage? This morning, Don is joined by the brilliant Reecie Colbert to break down the mess—what's happening, who's getting hurt, and whether there's a way out before it all gets worse. It's not looking good, Lemon Nation. Let's talk about it. The Don Lemon Show is up for a Webby! Vote now for Best Podcast Episode – Featured Guest: https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2025/podcasts/individual-episode/featured-guest This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

FFRF's IT Director Scott Knickelbine gives us the inside scoop on the case by Catholic Charities in Wisconsin that is before the U.S. Supreme Court seeking to deny workers unemployment insurance based on religious privilege. Then, we talk with Maryland Delegate Heather Bagnall about the bill she introduced to exonerate people accused of witchcraft in 17th-century Maryland, including Moll Dyer, who froze to death after being driven from her home.

Trump hit the economy with sky-high tariffs, watched the market tank... then suddenly hit pause for 90 days. Coincidence? Strategic retreat? Or something that smells suspiciously like market manipulation? With the economy whiplashing and investors scrambling, we're asking the real questions—and we've got Mr. Wonderful himself, Kevin O'Leary, joining us to break it all down. What does this mean for the markets, businesses, and your wallet? And can anyone keep up with this administration's trade mood swings? Join us live, Lemon Nation. It's a mess—but at least it's entertaining. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The market's been swinging like it's had three espressos and no breakfast—and Trump's tariff rollercoaster is to blame. After tanking the economy with massive trade threats, he's now backing down on some of them, trying to calm the storm he created. Spoiler: it's not working. But while the market melts down, Trump's doing something even more alarming: weaponizing the DOJ to investigate former officials who dared to speak out against him—Miles Taylor and Chris Krebs among them. We're diving into the economic mess and the creeping authoritarianism. Because tariffs are bad—but turning federal law enforcement into a revenge squad? That's much, much worse. Buckle up, Lemon Nation. This one's serious. The Don Lemon Show is up for a Webby! Vote now for Best Podcast Episode – Featured Guest: https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2025/podcasts/individual-episode/featured-guest Tara Setmayer's Seneca Project was nominated for best use of video in socials. Vote here: https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2025/social/features/best-use-of-video This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump's slapped a 104% tariff on Chinese goods—yes, you read that right—and now China's hitting back with their own round of retaliatory tariffs. The result? Skyrocketing prices, a shaken stock market, and economists nervously whispering...recession. It's economic brinkmanship at its dumbest, and everyday Americans are the ones stuck with the bill. Don goes live to break down the numbers, the fallout, and how this mess could spiral even further. Spoiler: it's not looking great out there. Buckle up, Lemon Nation—this is going to hurt. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's been a rollercoaster week for the economy. Trump temporarily hit the brakes on his tariff plans after the market tanked—only to turn around and slap even higher tariffs on China. Mixed signals? That's putting it nicely. How much longer can the economy absorb the market whiplash? Tonight, Don is joined by host of The David Frum Show and staff writer for The Atlantic David Frum. Join Don and David live to break down the chaos, the consequences, and the confusion that has American business owners asking: what now? Hold on tight, Lemon Nation—it's getting bumpy out there. Watch the first episode of The David Frum Show here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aTfVTeHbvxI This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Confused about the economy? You're not alone. Between Trump's tariff bombshell, a stock market in freefall, and zero clarity from the administration, it's starting to feel like nobody—including the people in charge—knows what's going on. One thing is clear: people are pissed. From this weekend's “Hands Off” protests to MAGA voters openly questioning their choices, the backlash is real—and growing. Don goes live to break down the economic confusion, the political fallout, and why this mess is starting to unite people in one shared emotion: pure frustration. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tariffs, market crashes, economic whiplash—is anyone steering this thing? The stock market is spiraling, prices are climbing, and even the administration seems like it's just guessing at this point. We're all feeling it: the stress, the confusion, the desperate urge for someone—anyone—to hit pause on the madness. Tonight, Don is joined by special guest David Pakman to unpack the chaos, make sense of the senseless, and ask the question on everyone's mind: can we please make it stop? This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is The Briefing, a daily analysis of news and events from a Christian worldview.Part I (00:13 - 13:09)How Much Financial Pain? How Much Gain? Trump's Tariffs Raise Big Economic QuestionsPart II (13:09 - 21:29)A Collision Between Secularism and the LGBTQ Revolution: A Leader of New Atheism Goes After the Freedom From Religion Foundation for Abandoning BiologyLosing My Nonreligion by The Wall Street Journal (Jerry A. Coyne)What is a woman? by FreeThought Now! (Kat Grant)Biology Is Not Bigotry by Free Inquiry (Jerry A. Coyne)Wednesday, January 8, 2025 by The Briefing (R. Albert Mohler, Jr.)So even atheists kick out heretics? by WORLD Opinions (R. Albert Mohler, Jr.)Part III (21:29 - 26:38)Most of the World is Still Explicitly Theological: Taliban Leader Delivers Major Theological Challenge to the WestThe Taliban leader says there is no need for Western laws in Afghanistan by The Associated PressSign up to receive The Briefing in your inbox every weekday morning.Follow Dr. Mohler:X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeFor more information on The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, go to sbts.edu.For more information on Boyce College, just go to BoyceCollege.com.To write Dr. Mohler or submit a question for The Mailbox, go here.

Well, that didn't take long. After Trump's big tariff announcement, the stock market did what it does best when he talks trade: absolutely tanked. It's not just Wall Street feeling the burn—global markets are spiraling, trading partners are furious, and economists everywhere are reaching for the TUMS. Don goes live to break down the fallout: rising prices, global tension, and a trade policy that seems more like a tantrum with consequences. Join us, Lemon Nation—because economic nationalism is starting to look a lot like economic nosedive. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The stock market is officially on a rollercoaster—and Trump's tariff announcement is the one yanking the lever. Since his so-called Liberation Day, we've seen wild swings, investor panic, and enough volatility to make even Wall Street queasy. Don breaks down what's happening, why the markets are reacting this way, and how Trump's trade war 2.0 is creating chaos not just at home, but around the globe. It's unpredictable. It's ugly. And somehow, it's exactly what he wanted. Buckle up, Lemon Nation. This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/donlemon and get on your way to being your best self. This episode is brought to you by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Whether you've always been secular or left religion behind, if you don't want someone else dictating the trip for you, F-F-R-F has your back. Join us. Go to FFRF.US/Freedom or text the word, “FAMILY” to five eleven five eleven and become a member today. Text fees may apply. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Besides covering state/church issues in Kentucky, Wisconsin and Arizona, most of the news is out of Oklahoma, including the fact that Oklahoma's Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters is suing FFRF for allegedly interfering in the right of his office to promote religion in the public schools. FFRF Legal Director Patrick Elliott joins us to talk about that case, Walters v. FFRF. Three smart young people read their winning entries in FFRF's freethinking student essay contests. Then, we hear an excerpt of a speech by former New York Times columnist and MSNBC political analyst Charles Blow decrying the dangers of Christian nationalism.

After a roundup of state/church news around the country, we celebrate the birthday of Eric Idle, 82, (who calls himself an "old agnostic") by listening to his irreverent song, "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life," from the movie "Monty Python's Life of Brian." Then, professor and author Josh Cowen tells us about his book The Privateers: How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers.