America stands at a dangerous crossroads where environmental protections are being dismantled, congressional oversight is being restricted, and international relations are spiraling toward potential conflict.
The Supreme Court's decision on California's emission power is made.
Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security has implemented new restrictions.
Similarly troubling is the new requirement on student visa applicants. Wait until you hear this one.
The most alarming development remains Trump's move on Iran's nuclear facilities!
Madness after madness leading to a Dictatorship in America.
Yet even in these dark times, stories of extraordinary humanity shine through: a woman spending 11 years to thank people?, high school senior sketches 110 portraits?, an elderly woman at the age of 82 weightlifting?, and an elephant becomes a hero by saving…?
These reminders of our capacity for kindness and connection offer essential hope as we navigate this increasingly chaotic landscape.
We must recognize what's happening and take action. This isn't about partisan politics—it's about preserving democracy, protecting our environment, and preventing unnecessary conflicts. Will you join the conversation about how we can stand together against this madness?
We need to Stay Hopeful
AWorldGoneMadPodcast@gmail.com
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
This is a world gone mad.
This is a world gone mad.
And another day in a world gonemad.
I'm Jeff Allen Wolfe.
I'm back again to give mycommentary on the news.
Thank you for joining me.
Okay, let's talk about themadness.
Supreme Court narrowsCalifornia's emission power.
(00:29):
The US Supreme Court ruled thatfuel producers like Now.
Justice Kavanaugh emphasizedthat regulated industries have
standing to sue when regulationsharm them financially.
Reversing an earlier lowercourt decision them financially
reversing an earlier lower courtdecision.
Justices Jackson and Sotomayordissented.
(00:49):
Warning this weakensenvironmental oversight and
gives undue corporate influence.
In practical terms, this meansfossil fuel interests now have a
legal pathway to contestCalifornia's zero emission
vehicle mandate for 2035.
The ruling doesn't overturnCalifornia's rules yet but
creates the potential forprotracted legal battles.
(01:12):
Observers warn this could slowforward momentum on climate
regulations nationwide andembolden challenges to other
federal or state level greenstandards.
Now two of the Democraticjustices dissented.
So Elena Kagan either votedwith the conservative side or
(01:32):
did she abstain.
Anyway, more dismantling ofenvironmental protections.
I don't understand it.
This is not a Jeff Democraticliberal viewpoint.
This is not a Republicanviewpoint.
This issue is a common senseviewpoint and we're doing
everything we can to destroy ourenvironment as fast as we can.
(01:54):
Dhs mandates advance notice forcongressional visits to ICE.
The Department of HomelandSecurity quietly introduced a
new rule requiring lawmakers toprovide 72-hour notice for
visits to ICE field offices and24 hours for staff entry.
The policy shift follows tenseencounters like the June 9th
(02:16):
confrontation in Newark, whereRepresentative McIver and others
were blocked by ICE officials.
Mciver, rather, and others wereblocked by ICE officials.
Critics argued this limitsexecutive oversight, breaches
statutory rights of Congress.
Representative Benny Thompsoncalled it unlawful, while others
say it signals growingauthoritarian tendencies within
DHS.
(02:37):
Proponents defend it as anecessary safety measure for
secure facilities.
The debate now centers onwhether this policy undermines
transparency or enhancesdeterrence against unsanctioned
visits.
You know what I think.
How about having a 72-hourwaiting period before the police
(02:58):
can bust a drug ring?
Or to stop a shooting at aschool?
We have to give 72 hours noticeto the shooter before we can
intervene.
This ruling is ludicrous.
You're telling members ofCongress and the Senate that
they can't go investigatesomething without notice because
we need to give those peopletime to prepare to clean up any
(03:21):
problems before anyone catchesthem.
Absurd Student visa entrancemust disclose social media.
Now the US State Department hasresumed processing foreign
student visas F, m and Jcategories, but with a new
requirement Applicants mustunlock and make their social
(03:44):
media profiles public.
Posts likes follows may now bescrutinized for signs of
hostility toward the US, and arefusal to comply risks visa
denial.
Now critics, includinguniversities and civil liberties
advocates, say the rule couldchill free expression, impact
(04:04):
academic freedom and discouragethousands of international
students, who contributesignificantly to US education
and research, from coming.
Now embassies are citing newworkloads and applicants from
schools with less than 50%international enrollment may
face greater scrutiny.
International enrollment mayface greater scrutiny.
Look, I understand what they'retrying to do and they put it in
(04:33):
a veil of, you know, just beingsure and protecting the
university or protecting theworkplace or whatever you want
to call it.
But the truth of the matter isthis is an invasion of privacy
and another dagger to freespeech and expression.
I just don't agree with thislevel of oversight.
Surgeon threats to electedofficials Following the
(04:53):
politically motivated shootingof two Minnesota state
legislators.
Capitol Police report a record9,474 threats logged in 2024,
highest since the January 6thCapitol attack.
Senators and representativesare now urging increased
security funding, withbipartisan calls for tougher
(05:13):
enforcement and betterprotection measures.
Authorities are also debatingpreventative steps like enhanced
screening, increased agencycoordination and speedier
prosecutions.
The Minnesota assassination ispart of a worrying national
trend.
Not only are threats increasing, but violence is creeping
closer to home in state capitals, prompting deeper reflection on
(05:38):
political rhetoric and safetyfor public servants.
Look, what we've come to ismassive threats, dangerous life
and death and, in some case,fatal threats carried out
against public servants.
And the appalling part of allthis is how the Republicans
don't see this as a problem,don't see this expanding
(06:00):
violence against people whorepresent other factions.
What's next?
Attacking podcasters or peopleon YouTube or newspaper
journalists?
Yeah, I know that's notfar-fetched, is it so Trump
mulled bunker buster strike onIran and its Fordow installation
(06:24):
.
So sources reported that formerPresident Trump was weighing a
decision on deploying GBU-57Bunker Buster against Iran's
deeply buried nuclear sites,despite concerns that such
strike could destabilize theregion, evoking a Libya-style
aftermath.
Trump was leaning towardsaction if negotiations failed,
(06:44):
although he paused it for twoweeks to weigh the risk.
You know the taco syndrome Now.
These bunker busters were amongthe few weapons capable of
penetrating the fortifiedunderground structure, but
military advisers are dividedover their effectiveness.
The final decision was expectedto happen within the next
fortnight, with Israeliofficials urging decisive
(07:05):
strikes, while European actorssimultaneously pushed for
diplomacy.
You know the bravado, the falsebravado, from Donald I'm going
to do this and if you don't dothat and I don't follow through
with it, the taco syndrome.
Like I said, he was going todelay it for two weeks, trump
follows up.
This is the style of DonaldTrump.
Again, not a true leader andI've said it over and over again
(07:27):
not decisive, pretends, youknow, to look big.
All bluster, all bark, no bite,no substance.
And that Iran was hit fromDonald Trump.
That's right.
Donald Trump, theadministration, the military did
strike the nuclear facilitiesin Iran in the last 12 hours.
On again, off again.
(07:49):
Donald.
No consistency, no diplomacy,no understanding how the world
works.
And he's putting the MiddleEast in a very frigging,
dangerous situation and we'reall holding our breath to see
what Iran's going to do, andthen Israel, and then USA again,
and then the other people,china, and see what Iran's going
to do, and then Israel, andthen USA again, and then the
other people, china and Russia.
Just a shit show, all becauseof Trump.
(08:11):
He's in action, then he's inaction, then he's in action, and
then finally he does this.
Iran launches missiles atSirocco Hospital in Israel.
Over 30 Iranian missiles strucksouthern Israel, including the
Siroka Medical Center inBeersheba, wounding at least 50
individuals, six critically.
(08:31):
Israel responded by bombingIran's Arak heavy water reactor
and threats emerged againstIran's supreme leader, tehran.
They have called a war crime.
All of this In response toescalating regional risk.
European ministers convened inGeneva to explore diplomatic
options.
While nations like the UK beganevacuating embassy staff from
(08:56):
Iran, israel, however, remainedskeptical of diplomatic
overtures, continued to push USto make a make a strike, push
Donald Trump to action and keptthe tensions dangerously
elevated.
And Trump acted and struck Iran.
Just unbelievable global pushto de-escalate the Middle East
(09:20):
tensions.
Now international leaders,spearheaded by EU ministers, are
urgently pushing forde-escalation amid growing
Iran-Israel hostilities.
Now that the US is involved.
Meetings in Geneva involvingGermany, france, the UK, eu
diplomats aim to prevent furthercivilian casualties and averta
broader regional war.
(09:41):
Meanwhile, embassies, includingBritain's, are withdrawing
staff from Tehran and advisingnationals to avoid travel.
Clear indication of escalatinginternational concern, the US
was urging American citizens inIsrael and Iran to leave.
With both sides deeplyentrenched, the risk of a wider
(10:01):
Middle Eastern conflict afterDonald struck Iran has never
been higher.
We know how dangerous this isbecause embassies are being told
to close.
World leaders are scrambling.
Obviously all because Israel,and now Trump with his strike on
Iran, are making this firestormratchet up a thousandfold, are
(10:25):
making this firestorm ratchet upa thousandfold.
This Wolfpack listeners, islike carrying nitroglycerin on
your fingertip.
The US CEOs hit five-year low ineconomic outlook.
According to the latestBusiness Roundtable data,
(10:48):
sentiment among US CEOs haveplummeted to a five-year low,
with the CEO Economic OutlookIndex dropping to 69 in Q2, well
below the long-run average of83.
Roughly 40% of CEOs plan toreduce their workforce in the
next six months, a sharpincrease from 30% in the first
quarter.
This downturn is driven byheightened uncertainty around
trade policies, escalatingtariffs, labor shortages and
(11:11):
rising costs of materials.
The housing sector is alsoshowing weakness, with new
starts and building permits downsharply in May worrying sign
that the high mortgage rates areindeed suppressing construction
.
Together, these trends suggestthat, while the labor market
remains resilient worrying signthat the high mortgage rates are
indeed suppressing construction.
Together, these trends suggestthat, while the labor market
(11:32):
remains resilient, cracks areforming under mounting
macroeconomic pressures, hintingat a potential slowdown ahead.
In other words, the CEOs areconcerned about the madness
creative with the reflection ofDonald Trump and the lack of
spine that the Republicans havenot shown, not stood up by not
going against Donald.
And when CEOs are talking aboutthis, then you know we're in a
(11:55):
serious situation.
Brazil pushes for expandedclimate commitments at COP30.
As president of COP30, brazilproposed a bold new framework
using states, rather urgingstates, cities and corporations
to commit to emissions targetsalongside national pledges,
(12:18):
creating what he calls a globaldetermined contribution, cdc.
This effort aims to fill gapsleft by government in action,
enabling US cities and companiesto participate.
Despite broader federalwithdrawal from the Paris
Agreement by Donald, brazil'sambassador emphasized that GDC
(12:39):
is a new dynamic to integratenon-state actors into global
climate goals.
The proposal seeks to boostambition ahead of COP30 in Belém
this November.
Diplomatic outreach encouragesnations to update pledges by
September, aiming for a cohesiveblend of public and private
(12:59):
commitments.
Brazil's climate champion notedthat sites, rather cities and
businesses, often outpacenational efforts, highlighting
the move as a pragmatic shifttowards real world emissions
reductions.
Great initiative, but theproblem is we're 20 to 30 years
too late.
(13:20):
It's so nice to hear somethingabout like COP 30.
But seriously, it's just asnail pace for us, the citizens
of this country, and the realityof not dealing with global
warming.
In another related story.
Un Ocean Summit marks theturning point in marine
(13:43):
protection.
Now, at the UN Ocean Summit inNice, over 60 heads of state,
190 ministers, gathered toelevate ocean conservation onto
the international agenda.
Member states endorsed alandmark high seas treaty
designed to protect 30% ofglobal oceans by 2030,
(14:03):
emphasizing curbs on destructivepractices like deep sea mining
and bottom trawling.
France announced the creationof a 5 million square kilometer
marine protected area, but drewcriticism for only restricting,
not banning, the bottom trawling.
(14:23):
They're restricting it, they'rejust not banning it.
Though challenges remains asfunding and implementation, the
summit sparked renewed politicalwill.
Notably, 37 countries supporteda mining moratorium, marking a
significant victory forconservationists.
Experts described the summit asa wake-up moment, comparing it
(14:44):
to the Paris Agreement andraising awareness and driving
commitments towards marinesustainability.
And I'm going to becomeredundant, wolfpack listeners
Exactly my comment I made beforein the previous news article
about COP30.
The action on the environment,whether it be the COP 30 or this
oceans, you know, agreement.
It's nice to see this happening, but again, sorry, where was
(15:08):
this many years ago?
Why is this taking so long?
And every time, we come up witha new agreement, a new plan to
help the environment, and it'sgoing to happen five years from
now and then, and and it'sridiculous we are wasting time.
We are behind the eight ball.
We are running uphillblindfolded.
(15:30):
I'm pissed, as I'm sure a lot ofyou are, with everything that's
happening day by day, hour byhour, since Donald's re-election
the stupidity, the absurdity,the insanity of striking Iran
nuclear facilities and gettinginvolved in creating a bigger
war.
The delay on theseenvironmental procedures, the
(15:51):
delay of people showing up atICE facilities because they have
to get notification All this isstupid.
We have lost our sense ofdirection.
We have lost any semblance ofintelligence and sanity and
moving forward in this countryto really make America great
again Not the bullshit, makeAmerica great again that Donald
(16:13):
and MAGA want.
We take a breath and I'm sorry,I'm angry Every day.
I have to be involved in this.
You guys can either go I don'twant to listen to you, I don't
listen to your podcast becauseit's too overwhelming.
You stick your head in the sandor you just post memes and
stories on different websitesand I have to deal with this
every day.
And I'm not saying woe is me,but enough leadership.
(16:35):
Democrats, somebody stand up.
Let's get action together tostop this, this, this, this
robing, this dismantling?
The emperor has no clothes.
Not two, not three, but four.
How do you like that, people?
Four uplifting, inspiringstories for you, the Wolfpack
(16:57):
listeners.
A woman writes 10,000 thank younotes over 11 years.
Ellen Webster, a resident ofHoboken, new Jersey, has spent
the past 11 years writing andsending 10,000 handwritten thank
you notes.
Her recipients vary widely,from physicians to baristas and
authors, each note expressinggratitude for a moment of
(17:19):
kindness, encouragement orcomfort she experienced.
Ellen told ABC News I writebecause I believe it matters to
acknowledge the good people andwhat they bring into our lives
In a digital age saturated bytext and emails.
Ellen's commitment tohandwritten gratitude is
extraordinary.
She spends two hours daily onthis labor of love, carefully
(17:41):
selecting stationery, penningpersonalized messages and
mailing them herself.
Her mission extends beyond merepoliteness she's rebuilding a
culture of sincerity and humanconnection.
Recipients often respond withsurprise and appreciation,
sharing how the unexpectedpostcards brighten tough days or
(18:03):
rekindle hope.
Ellen's story reminds us thatsmall, consistent acts of
kindness can ripple outward,reinforcing the power of
individual agency in fosteringcommunity and compassion.
And in another story, a highschool senior sketches 110
classmates.
At Notre Dame Academy in StatenIsland, new York, graduating
(18:26):
senior Sophia Nielsen spent twomonths sketching portraits of
all 110 of her classmates all110 of her classmates as a
project.
She completed just beforegraduation.
Drawing during lunch breaks andfree periods, sophia aimed to
capture each student's uniqueexpression and personality.
Her final montage was unveiledat graduation, bringing many
(18:47):
people to tears.
Sophia's project highlights thepower of recognition and
connection, especially during amilestone filled with change and
uncertainty.
She said in an interview Iwanted everyone to feel seen
before we go our separate ways.
The impact was immediate.
Students shared that seeingthemselves immortalized in art
(19:08):
helped forge deeper bonds.
The school planned to displaythe portraits in a permanent
gallery.
How cool, ensuring lastingmemories.
Sophia's work exemplifies howone person's creativity makes a
difference.
And here we go.
Another uplifting, inspiringstory 82-year-old grandmother is
(19:28):
going to compete in powerlifting at the US Senior Games
that's right.
Power lifting at the US SeniorGames?
That's right.
At 82 years old, faith O'Reillyis breaking stereotypes and
records.
After starting weightlifting atthe age of 76 to combat
osteoporosis, she has grown fromresistance bands to lifting 80
(19:49):
plus pounds on the bench pressand squatting nearly 120 pounds.
Recently she qualified for theUS Senior Games, becoming one of
the oldest powerliftingcompetitors in history.
What's most inspiring isn'tjust her age-defying strength,
it's her message it's never toolate to become your strongest
self.
Local gyms now report an uptickin older adults seeking
(20:12):
training, and Faith is using herplatform to advocate for senior
fitness.
Her story combines grit andheart, showing that empowerment
comes at any stage of life.
And finally, zoo Elephantrescues a drowning gazelle.
Picture this At GuatemalaCity's Aurora Zoo.
(20:33):
A heartwarming sight unfoldedwhen an elephant intervened to
save a young gazelle trapped ina pond.
Using its trunk, the elephantfirst pulled the startled
gazelle halfway out, thengripped its horns and guided it
safely to dry land.
Amazing Visitors watched in awe, capturing the moment on video.
(20:53):
Go look for it.
This isn't an isolated incidentearlier in 2022.
I'm sorry, there was anisolated incident in 2022.
Another elephant at the samezoo performed a similar rescue,
prompting staff to call themlifeguards.
Conservationists say thisdisplay showcases compassion and
interspecies empathy, remindinghumanity that kindness
(21:17):
transcends boundaries.
It's a powerful message.
Real empathy can appear inunexpected forms, even in the
wild People, animals, efforts tomake a difference in this world
.
Hopefully these storiesinspired you or put a couple of
smiles on your face.
(21:42):
This episode was late because Ihad a health issue.
Friday night had a somewhatemergency.
That was resolved, but Icouldn't do the episode, so it's
coming to you on a Sunday and Ido apologize.
You're listening to A WorldGone Mad.
I'm Jeff Allen Wolfe.
I'll be back again Monday,tomorrow, less than 24 hours
with another episode, waiting tohear from you everyone, and if
(22:04):
I don't, then I'm sitting in aroom talking to myself.
Stay hopeful.
There is chaos in the world,can't you see?
And we need to stand up andpreserve our democracy.
This is a world gone mad.
(22:26):
This is a world gone mad, mad,mad, mad.
Yeah.
This is a world gone mad.
This is a world gone mad.
And another day in a world gonemad.
I'm Jeff Allen Wolfe.
I'm back again to give mycommentary on the news.
Thank you for joining me.
Okay, let's talk about themadness.
Supreme Court narrowsCalifornia's emission power.
(00:29):
The US Supreme Court ruled thatfuel producers like Now.
Justice Kavanaugh emphasizedthat regulated industries have
standing to sue when regulationsharm them financially.
Reversing an earlier lowercourt decision them financially
reversing an earlier lower courtdecision.
Justices Jackson and Sotomayordissented.
(00:49):
Warning this weakensenvironmental oversight and
gives undue corporate influence.
In practical terms, this meansfossil fuel interests now have a
legal pathway to contestCalifornia's zero emission
vehicle mandate for 2035.
The ruling doesn't overturnCalifornia's rules yet but
creates the potential forprotracted legal battles.
(01:12):
Observers warn this could slowforward momentum on climate
regulations nationwide andembolden challenges to other
federal or state level greenstandards.
Now two of the Democraticjustices dissented.
So Elena Kagan either votedwith the conservative side or
(01:32):
did she abstain.
Anyway, more dismantling ofenvironmental protections.
I don't understand it.
This is not a Jeff Democraticliberal viewpoint.
This is not a Republicanviewpoint.
This issue is a common senseviewpoint and we're doing
everything we can to destroy ourenvironment as fast as we can.
(01:54):
Dhs mandates advance notice forcongressional visits to ICE.
The Department of HomelandSecurity quietly introduced a
new rule requiring lawmakers toprovide 72-hour notice for
visits to ICE field offices and24 hours for staff entry.
The policy shift follows tenseencounters like the June 9th
(02:16):
confrontation in Newark, whereRepresentative McIver and others
were blocked by ICE officials.
Mciver, rather, and others wereblocked by ICE officials.
Critics argued this limitsexecutive oversight, breaches
statutory rights of Congress.
Representative Benny Thompsoncalled it unlawful, while others
say it signals growingauthoritarian tendencies within
DHS.
(02:37):
Proponents defend it as anecessary safety measure for
secure facilities.
The debate now centers onwhether this policy undermines
transparency or enhancesdeterrence against unsanctioned
visits.
You know what I think.
How about having a 72-hourwaiting period before the police
(02:58):
can bust a drug ring?
Or to stop a shooting at aschool?
We have to give 72 hours noticeto the shooter before we can
intervene.
This ruling is ludicrous.
You're telling members ofCongress and the Senate that
they can't go investigatesomething without notice because
we need to give those peopletime to prepare to clean up any
(03:21):
problems before anyone catchesthem.
Absurd Student visa entrancemust disclose social media.
Now the US State Department hasresumed processing foreign
student visas F, m and Jcategories, but with a new
requirement Applicants mustunlock and make their social
(03:44):
media profiles public.
Posts likes follows may now bescrutinized for signs of
hostility toward the US, and arefusal to comply risks visa
denial.
Now critics, includinguniversities and civil liberties
advocates, say the rule couldchill free expression, impact
(04:04):
academic freedom and discouragethousands of international
students, who contributesignificantly to US education
and research, from coming.
Now embassies are citing newworkloads and applicants from
schools with less than 50%international enrollment may
face greater scrutiny.
International enrollment mayface greater scrutiny.
Look, I understand what they'retrying to do and they put it in
(04:33):
a veil of, you know, just beingsure and protecting the
university or protecting theworkplace or whatever you want
to call it.
But the truth of the matter isthis is an invasion of privacy
and another dagger to freespeech and expression.
I just don't agree with thislevel of oversight.
Surgeon threats to electedofficials Following the
(04:53):
politically motivated shootingof two Minnesota state
legislators.
Capitol Police report a record9,474 threats logged in 2024,
highest since the January 6thCapitol attack.
Senators and representativesare now urging increased
security funding, withbipartisan calls for tougher
(05:13):
enforcement and betterprotection measures.
Authorities are also debatingpreventative steps like enhanced
screening, increased agencycoordination and speedier
prosecutions.
The Minnesota assassination ispart of a worrying national
trend.
Not only are threats increasing, but violence is creeping
closer to home in state capitals, prompting deeper reflection on
(05:38):
political rhetoric and safetyfor public servants.
Look, what we've come to ismassive threats, dangerous life
and death and, in some case,fatal threats carried out
against public servants.
And the appalling part of allthis is how the Republicans
don't see this as a problem,don't see this expanding
(06:00):
violence against people whorepresent other factions.
What's next?
Attacking podcasters or peopleon YouTube or newspaper
journalists?
Yeah, I know that's notfar-fetched, is it so Trump
mulled bunker buster strike onIran and its Fordow installation
(06:24):
.
So sources reported that formerPresident Trump was weighing a
decision on deploying GBU-57Bunker Buster against Iran's
deeply buried nuclear sites,despite concerns that such
strike could destabilize theregion, evoking a Libya-style
aftermath.
Trump was leaning towardsaction if negotiations failed,
(06:44):
although he paused it for twoweeks to weigh the risk.
You know the taco syndrome Now.
These bunker busters were amongthe few weapons capable of
penetrating the fortifiedunderground structure, but
military advisers are dividedover their effectiveness.
The final decision was expectedto happen within the next
fortnight, with Israeliofficials urging decisive
(07:05):
strikes, while European actorssimultaneously pushed for
diplomacy.
You know the bravado, the falsebravado, from Donald I'm going
to do this and if you don't dothat and I don't follow through
with it, the taco syndrome.
Like I said, he was going todelay it for two weeks, trump
follows up.
This is the style of DonaldTrump.
Again, not a true leader andI've said it over and over again
(07:27):
not decisive, pretends, youknow, to look big.
All bluster, all bark, no bite,no substance.
And that Iran was hit fromDonald Trump.
That's right.
Donald Trump, theadministration, the military did
strike the nuclear facilitiesin Iran in the last 12 hours.
On again, off again.
(07:49):
Donald.
No consistency, no diplomacy,no understanding how the world
works.
And he's putting the MiddleEast in a very frigging,
dangerous situation and we'reall holding our breath to see
what Iran's going to do, andthen Israel, and then USA again,
and then the other people,china, and see what Iran's going
to do, and then Israel, andthen USA again, and then the
other people, china and Russia.
Just a shit show, all becauseof Trump.
(08:11):
He's in action, then he's inaction, then he's in action, and
then finally he does this.
Iran launches missiles atSirocco Hospital in Israel.
Over 30 Iranian missiles strucksouthern Israel, including the
Siroka Medical Center inBeersheba, wounding at least 50
individuals, six critically.
(08:31):
Israel responded by bombingIran's Arak heavy water reactor
and threats emerged againstIran's supreme leader, tehran.
They have called a war crime.
All of this In response toescalating regional risk.
European ministers convened inGeneva to explore diplomatic
options.
While nations like the UK beganevacuating embassy staff from
(08:56):
Iran, israel, however, remainedskeptical of diplomatic
overtures, continued to push USto make a make a strike, push
Donald Trump to action and keptthe tensions dangerously
elevated.
And Trump acted and struck Iran.
Just unbelievable global pushto de-escalate the Middle East
(09:20):
tensions.
Now international leaders,spearheaded by EU ministers, are
urgently pushing forde-escalation amid growing
Iran-Israel hostilities.
Now that the US is involved.
Meetings in Geneva involvingGermany, france, the UK, eu
diplomats aim to prevent furthercivilian casualties and averta
broader regional war.
(09:41):
Meanwhile, embassies, includingBritain's, are withdrawing
staff from Tehran and advisingnationals to avoid travel.
Clear indication of escalatinginternational concern, the US
was urging American citizens inIsrael and Iran to leave.
With both sides deeplyentrenched, the risk of a wider
(10:01):
Middle Eastern conflict afterDonald struck Iran has never
been higher.
We know how dangerous this isbecause embassies are being told
to close.
World leaders are scrambling.
Obviously all because Israel,and now Trump with his strike on
Iran, are making this firestormratchet up a thousandfold, are
(10:25):
making this firestorm ratchet upa thousandfold.
This Wolfpack listeners, islike carrying nitroglycerin on
your fingertip.
The US CEOs hit five-year low ineconomic outlook.
According to the latestBusiness Roundtable data,
(10:48):
sentiment among US CEOs haveplummeted to a five-year low,
with the CEO Economic OutlookIndex dropping to 69 in Q2, well
below the long-run average of83.
Roughly 40% of CEOs plan toreduce their workforce in the
next six months, a sharpincrease from 30% in the first
quarter.
This downturn is driven byheightened uncertainty around
trade policies, escalatingtariffs, labor shortages and
(11:11):
rising costs of materials.
The housing sector is alsoshowing weakness, with new
starts and building permits downsharply in May worrying sign
that the high mortgage rates areindeed suppressing construction
.
Together, these trends suggestthat, while the labor market
remains resilient worrying signthat the high mortgage rates are
indeed suppressing construction.
Together, these trends suggestthat, while the labor market
(11:32):
remains resilient, cracks areforming under mounting
macroeconomic pressures, hintingat a potential slowdown ahead.
In other words, the CEOs areconcerned about the madness
creative with the reflection ofDonald Trump and the lack of
spine that the Republicans havenot shown, not stood up by not
going against Donald.
And when CEOs are talking aboutthis, then you know we're in a
(11:55):
serious situation.
Brazil pushes for expandedclimate commitments at COP30.
As president of COP30, brazilproposed a bold new framework
using states, rather urgingstates, cities and corporations
to commit to emissions targetsalongside national pledges,
(12:18):
creating what he calls a globaldetermined contribution, cdc.
This effort aims to fill gapsleft by government in action,
enabling US cities and companiesto participate.
Despite broader federalwithdrawal from the Paris
Agreement by Donald, brazil'sambassador emphasized that GDC
(12:39):
is a new dynamic to integratenon-state actors into global
climate goals.
The proposal seeks to boostambition ahead of COP30 in Belém
this November.
Diplomatic outreach encouragesnations to update pledges by
September, aiming for a cohesiveblend of public and private
(12:59):
commitments.
Brazil's climate champion notedthat sites, rather cities and
businesses, often outpacenational efforts, highlighting
the move as a pragmatic shifttowards real world emissions
reductions.
Great initiative, but theproblem is we're 20 to 30 years
too late.
(13:20):
It's so nice to hear somethingabout like COP 30.
But seriously, it's just asnail pace for us, the citizens
of this country, and the realityof not dealing with global
warming.
In another related story.
Un Ocean Summit marks theturning point in marine
(13:43):
protection.
Now, at the UN Ocean Summit inNice, over 60 heads of state,
190 ministers, gathered toelevate ocean conservation onto
the international agenda.
Member states endorsed alandmark high seas treaty
designed to protect 30% ofglobal oceans by 2030,
(14:03):
emphasizing curbs on destructivepractices like deep sea mining
and bottom trawling.
France announced the creationof a 5 million square kilometer
marine protected area, but drewcriticism for only restricting,
not banning, the bottom trawling.
(14:23):
They're restricting it, they'rejust not banning it.
Though challenges remains asfunding and implementation, the
summit sparked renewed politicalwill.
Notably, 37 countries supporteda mining moratorium, marking a
significant victory forconservationists.
Experts described the summit asa wake-up moment, comparing it
(14:44):
to the Paris Agreement andraising awareness and driving
commitments towards marinesustainability.
And I'm going to becomeredundant, wolfpack listeners
Exactly my comment I made beforein the previous news article
about COP30.
The action on the environment,whether it be the COP 30 or this
oceans, you know, agreement.
It's nice to see this happening, but again, sorry, where was
(15:08):
this many years ago?
Why is this taking so long?
And every time, we come up witha new agreement, a new plan to
help the environment, and it'sgoing to happen five years from
now and then, and and it'sridiculous we are wasting time.
We are behind the eight ball.
We are running uphillblindfolded.
(15:30):
I'm pissed, as I'm sure a lot ofyou are, with everything that's
happening day by day, hour byhour, since Donald's re-election
the stupidity, the absurdity,the insanity of striking Iran
nuclear facilities and gettinginvolved in creating a bigger
war.
The delay on theseenvironmental procedures, the
(15:51):
delay of people showing up atICE facilities because they have
to get notification All this isstupid.
We have lost our sense ofdirection.
We have lost any semblance ofintelligence and sanity and
moving forward in this countryto really make America great
again Not the bullshit, makeAmerica great again that Donald
(16:13):
and MAGA want.
We take a breath and I'm sorry,I'm angry Every day.
I have to be involved in this.
You guys can either go I don'twant to listen to you, I don't
listen to your podcast becauseit's too overwhelming.
You stick your head in the sandor you just post memes and
stories on different websitesand I have to deal with this
every day.
And I'm not saying woe is me,but enough leadership.
(16:35):
Democrats, somebody stand up.
Let's get action together tostop this, this, this, this
robing, this dismantling?
The emperor has no clothes.
Not two, not three, but four.
How do you like that, people?
Four uplifting, inspiringstories for you, the Wolfpack
(16:57):
listeners.
A woman writes 10,000 thank younotes over 11 years.
Ellen Webster, a resident ofHoboken, new Jersey, has spent
the past 11 years writing andsending 10,000 handwritten thank
you notes.
Her recipients vary widely,from physicians to baristas and
authors, each note expressinggratitude for a moment of
(17:19):
kindness, encouragement orcomfort she experienced.
Ellen told ABC News I writebecause I believe it matters to
acknowledge the good people andwhat they bring into our lives
In a digital age saturated bytext and emails.
Ellen's commitment tohandwritten gratitude is
extraordinary.
She spends two hours daily onthis labor of love, carefully
(17:41):
selecting stationery, penningpersonalized messages and
mailing them herself.
Her mission extends beyond merepoliteness she's rebuilding a
culture of sincerity and humanconnection.
Recipients often respond withsurprise and appreciation,
sharing how the unexpectedpostcards brighten tough days or
(18:03):
rekindle hope.
Ellen's story reminds us thatsmall, consistent acts of
kindness can ripple outward,reinforcing the power of
individual agency in fosteringcommunity and compassion.
And in another story, a highschool senior sketches 110
classmates.
At Notre Dame Academy in StatenIsland, new York, graduating
(18:26):
senior Sophia Nielsen spent twomonths sketching portraits of
all 110 of her classmates all110 of her classmates as a
project.
She completed just beforegraduation.
Drawing during lunch breaks andfree periods, sophia aimed to
capture each student's uniqueexpression and personality.
Her final montage was unveiledat graduation, bringing many
(18:47):
people to tears.
Sophia's project highlights thepower of recognition and
connection, especially during amilestone filled with change and
uncertainty.
She said in an interview Iwanted everyone to feel seen
before we go our separate ways.
The impact was immediate.
Students shared that seeingthemselves immortalized in art
(19:08):
helped forge deeper bonds.
The school planned to displaythe portraits in a permanent
gallery.
How cool, ensuring lastingmemories.
Sophia's work exemplifies howone person's creativity makes a
difference.
And here we go.
Another uplifting, inspiringstory 82-year-old grandmother is
(19:28):
going to compete in powerlifting at the US Senior Games
that's right.
Power lifting at the US SeniorGames?
That's right.
At 82 years old, faith O'Reillyis breaking stereotypes and
records.
After starting weightlifting atthe age of 76 to combat
osteoporosis, she has grown fromresistance bands to lifting 80
(19:49):
plus pounds on the bench pressand squatting nearly 120 pounds.
Recently she qualified for theUS Senior Games, becoming one of
the oldest powerliftingcompetitors in history.
What's most inspiring isn'tjust her age-defying strength,
it's her message it's never toolate to become your strongest
self.
Local gyms now report an uptickin older adults seeking
(20:12):
training, and Faith is using herplatform to advocate for senior
fitness.
Her story combines grit andheart, showing that empowerment
comes at any stage of life.
And finally, zoo Elephantrescues a drowning gazelle.
Picture this At GuatemalaCity's Aurora Zoo.
(20:33):
A heartwarming sight unfoldedwhen an elephant intervened to
save a young gazelle trapped ina pond.
Using its trunk, the elephantfirst pulled the startled
gazelle halfway out, thengripped its horns and guided it
safely to dry land.
Amazing Visitors watched in awe, capturing the moment on video.
(20:53):
Go look for it.
This isn't an isolated incidentearlier in 2022.
I'm sorry, there was anisolated incident in 2022.
Another elephant at the samezoo performed a similar rescue,
prompting staff to call themlifeguards.
Conservationists say thisdisplay showcases compassion and
interspecies empathy, remindinghumanity that kindness
(21:17):
transcends boundaries.
It's a powerful message.
Real empathy can appear inunexpected forms, even in the
wild People, animals, efforts tomake a difference in this world
.
Hopefully these storiesinspired you or put a couple of
smiles on your face.
(21:42):
This episode was late because Ihad a health issue.
Friday night had a somewhatemergency.
That was resolved, but Icouldn't do the episode, so it's
coming to you on a Sunday and Ido apologize.
You're listening to A WorldGone Mad.
I'm Jeff Allen Wolfe.
I'll be back again Monday,tomorrow, less than 24 hours
with another episode, waiting tohear from you everyone, and if
(22:04):
I don't, then I'm sitting in aroom talking to myself.
Stay hopeful.
There is chaos in the world,can't you see?
And we need to stand up andpreserve our democracy.
This is a world gone mad.
(22:26):
This is a world gone mad, mad,mad, mad.
Yeah.
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