September 27, 2025 • 24 mins
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, we highlight a series of remarkable victories and progressive actions that inspire hope and demonstrate the power of collective advocacy. Microsoft has taken a bold step by cutting off services to an elite Israeli military unit following revelations that its technology facilitated extensive surveillance of Palestinians. This unprecedented move marks a significant moment for corporate responsibility in the tech industry, showcasing how employee activism can drive meaningful change.
In Florida, nurses at HCA Florida Fort Walton Destin Hospital have voted overwhelmingly to join the National Nurses Organizing Committee, reflecting their commitment to improving patient care and workplace conditions. This victory not only empowers nurses but also emphasizes the importance of community health over corporate interests, paving the way for better staffing and safety standards.
Meanwhile, Connecticut has enacted a groundbreaking policy that bans warrantless arrests and prohibits masked ICE agents from operating in courthouses, ensuring that all individuals can access legal proceedings without fear of intimidation. This significant reform underscores the state's commitment to protecting vulnerable communities and upholding justice for all.
In a major innovation, MIT researchers have developed a self-assembling material for recycling electric vehicle batteries, revolutionizing how we approach battery disposal and sustainability. This breakthrough not only promises to enhance the circular economy but also addresses pressing environmental challenges as EV sales continue to rise.
We also celebrate the election of Adelita Grijalva in Arizona, who becomes the first Latina woman from the state elected to Congress. Her victory not only narrows the Republican majority but also brings renewed progressive momentum and a commitment to transparency and justice, particularly regarding the long-sealed Jeffrey Epstein case files.
Finally, we discuss a significant protest against Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett, reflecting the growing backlash against her role in shaping a conservative court. Activists are demanding accountability and a judiciary that serves the rights of all Americans.
Join us as we celebrate these uplifting stories that remind us of the progress being made every day. If you find these stories inspiring, please help us spread the word by rating and reviewing us on your favorite podcast platform! We love hearing from you, so reach out at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
For more about today's stories:
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/sep/25/microsoft-blocks-israels-use-of-its-technology-in-mass-surveillance-of-palestinians
https://www.nationalnursesunited.org/press/hca-fort-walton-destin-hospital-nurses-vote-decisively-to-join-nnoc-nnu?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
https://ctnewsjunkie.com/2025/09/16/ct-bans-warrantless-arrests-masked-ice-agents-in-courthouses/
https://www.fastcompany.com/91397414/mit-scientists-may-have-just-cracked-the-code-on-ev-battery-recycling
https://www.cnn.com/2025/09/23/politics/arizona-special-election-epstein-files
https://www.foxla.com/news/protesters-greet-supreme-court-justice-amy-coney-barrett-yorba-linda
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/sep/25/microsoft-blocks-israels-use-of-its-technology-in-mass-surveillance-of-palestinians
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/go
In Florida, nurses at HCA Florida Fort Walton Destin Hospital have voted overwhelmingly to join the National Nurses Organizing Committee, reflecting their commitment to improving patient care and workplace conditions. This victory not only empowers nurses but also emphasizes the importance of community health over corporate interests, paving the way for better staffing and safety standards.
Meanwhile, Connecticut has enacted a groundbreaking policy that bans warrantless arrests and prohibits masked ICE agents from operating in courthouses, ensuring that all individuals can access legal proceedings without fear of intimidation. This significant reform underscores the state's commitment to protecting vulnerable communities and upholding justice for all.
In a major innovation, MIT researchers have developed a self-assembling material for recycling electric vehicle batteries, revolutionizing how we approach battery disposal and sustainability. This breakthrough not only promises to enhance the circular economy but also addresses pressing environmental challenges as EV sales continue to rise.
We also celebrate the election of Adelita Grijalva in Arizona, who becomes the first Latina woman from the state elected to Congress. Her victory not only narrows the Republican majority but also brings renewed progressive momentum and a commitment to transparency and justice, particularly regarding the long-sealed Jeffrey Epstein case files.
Finally, we discuss a significant protest against Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett, reflecting the growing backlash against her role in shaping a conservative court. Activists are demanding accountability and a judiciary that serves the rights of all Americans.
Join us as we celebrate these uplifting stories that remind us of the progress being made every day. If you find these stories inspiring, please help us spread the word by rating and reviewing us on your favorite podcast platform! We love hearing from you, so reach out at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
For more about today's stories:
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/sep/25/microsoft-blocks-israels-use-of-its-technology-in-mass-surveillance-of-palestinians
https://www.nationalnursesunited.org/press/hca-fort-walton-destin-hospital-nurses-vote-decisively-to-join-nnoc-nnu?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
https://ctnewsjunkie.com/2025/09/16/ct-bans-warrantless-arrests-masked-ice-agents-in-courthouses/
https://www.fastcompany.com/91397414/mit-scientists-may-have-just-cracked-the-code-on-ev-battery-recycling
https://www.cnn.com/2025/09/23/politics/arizona-special-election-epstein-files
https://www.foxla.com/news/protesters-greet-supreme-court-justice-amy-coney-barrett-yorba-linda
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/sep/25/microsoft-blocks-israels-use-of-its-technology-in-mass-surveillance-of-palestinians
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/go
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:06):
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm Bailwolf Rockland,
your host, ready to help you swap out doom and
gloom for some genuine hope with uplifting stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists,
(00:28):
and anyone who believes in making America a better place
for everyone. Today's troubling headlines often overwhelm us, and I'm
sure if you follow the news, you'll read or hear
about some of them today. All the bad news makes
it easy to lose sight of hope, and that's exactly
why it's vital to highlight the positive progressive wins happening
(00:50):
every day in the United States of America. To help
us spread the positivity. If you enjoy the show, please
rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your
podcast platform of choice. It helps more lefties like you
hear more good news stories and stay positive and motivated
for the days ahead. Now, let's get to some good
(01:11):
news headlines designed to brighten your day. Microsoft has cut
off an elite Israeli military unit from key cloud and
Artificial intelligence services after discoveries that its technology fueled sweeping
surveillance of Palestinians. Following months of reporting by The Guardian
(01:32):
and advocacy from tech workers, Microsoft confirmed that Unit eighty
two hundred, the Israeli Defense Force's main signals intelligence arm,
used Microsoft's Azure Cloud to store and process a staggering
volume of intercepted Palestinian phone calls in both Gaza and
the West Bank. Microsoft launched a review in August after
(01:55):
public and internal pressure revealed the scale of Israel's surveillance operations,
which involved archiving up to a million private calls per hour.
This investigation confirmed that data from millions of Palestinians was
being warehoused on Microsoft servers in Europe. Company president Brad
Smith announced that the services would be deactivated immediately, emphasizing
(02:19):
that Microsoft's technology must never be used for indiscriminate monitoring
of civilians anywhere in the world. This step marks the
first time a major US tech firm has revoked services
from the Israeli military over human rights concerns, setting a
precedent for responsible technology use. Amid ongoing conflict, grassroots activism
(02:42):
by Microsoft employees, many of whom risked arrest and job
loss to protest helped push the company to act, with
digital justice organizations hailing the moment as a breakthrough for
tech worker organizing and the fight against surveillance and genocide.
While Israel's military downplayed the move, digital rights advocates and
(03:05):
local campaigners see this as a clear message powerful corporations
can and must take responsibility for their role in upholding
human rights. Microsoft's action is being celebrated as a vital
step toward ensuring global technology does not become a tool
for oppression, and as living proof of what's possible when
(03:25):
public pressure meets principled leadership. In a resounding show of
unity and purpose, nurses at HCA Florida Fort Walton Destin
Hospital voted overwhelmingly to join the National Nurses Organizing Committee
National Nurses United, the country's largest union of registered nurses.
(03:48):
More than sixty five percent sided with the movement during
a two day election, sending a clear message that frontline
caregivers are determined to put community health and patient well
being above corporate priorities. This victory follows persistent challenges including
short staffing, unsafe floating, outdated equipment, and workplace violence, conditions
(04:14):
nurses say undermine their ability to deliver compassionate, timely care.
Nurses describe unionizing as a pathway to meaningful change, putting
the lived needs of patients and caregivers firmly on management's agenda.
Emergency room nurse Paige Campbell celebrated the decision, explaining that
(04:36):
union representation finally gives nurses the leverage to win real
improvements for all those served by the hospital. Once recognized,
the Fort Walton destined nurses will join thousands already represented
at HCA facilities nationwide, with collective bargaining playing a pivotal
role in strengthening staffing and patient outcomes. NCNNU now represents
(05:03):
thirty five hundred nurses across eleven HCA Florida hospitals and
an additional sixty five hundred members in other states, standing
as a force for progressive patient advocacy and workplace fairness.
Their next step is forming a bargaining team to negotiate
their first contract, aiming to address the very issues that
(05:26):
drove the unionization campaign. The nurse's victory is electrifying not
just for hospital staff, but for families and communities across
the region who deserve safe staffing, reliable equipment, and the
highest standard of care with industry profits soaring and executive
pay skyrocketing. Nurses at Fort Walton Deston have shown that
(05:49):
organized people power is the antidote to corporate indifference, making
this a truly hopeful day for public health in Florida.
Connecticut has taken a major step forward for justice and
community safety, issuing a new statewide policy that bans law
(06:09):
enforcement from making warrantless arrests and prohibits masked immigrations Customs
enforcement agents inside courthouses. The move was announced by Chief
Justice Rahem Mullens alongside Governor Ned Lamont and legislative leaders
following a disturbing incident in Stamford where masked ICE agents
(06:30):
forcibly apprehended two men inside a courthouse bathroom. Officials emphasized
that everyone, regardless of immigration status, deserves to access the
courts without fear or intimidation. This policy ensures that only
arrests backed by a judicial warrant, rather than administrative ICE detainers,
(06:51):
can occur in Connecticut courthouses, reinforcing the right to safe
and open legal proceedings for witnesses, victims, litigants, and families. Crucially,
law enforcement agents are now barred from concealing their identity
with masks unless medically necessary, helping to build trust and
(07:13):
transparency in public spaces. Governor Lamont and Representative Steve Staffstrom
stressed that real justice means protecting vulnerable communities so they
can seek help on civil, family, and criminal matters without disruption.
State leaders expressed hope that federal agencies would respect Connecticut's
(07:35):
new guidelines, noting similar protections already in place for federal
courthouses in the state and policies recently adopted elsewhere. New
rules were shaped in consultation with ICE officials and inspired
by calls from Democratic lawmakers and the public, demonstrating a
priority to keep courthouse operations fair and free from heavy
(07:57):
handed enforcement tactics. Supporters ailed the new policy as an
essential affirmation of dignity, legal access, and community protection. With
this action, Connecticut joins a growing list of states promising
that access to justice will not be dictated by fear,
immigration status, or secretive enforcement. MIT researchers have unveiled a
(08:22):
transformative solution for recycling electric vehicle batteries, introducing a self
assembling material that could make dismantling and reusing critical battery components,
straightforward and sustainable, Unlike today's standard, which involves costly and
toxic shredding of batteries into black mass. The MIT team
(08:43):
designed a battery electrolyte that dissolves effortlessly in organic solvent,
allowing the main battery parts to be separated and recycled
with minimal difficulty. This approach reimagines ev battery design from
the ground up, prioritizing recyclability as a core principle, not
an afterthought. The centerpiece of MIT's innovation is a new
(09:06):
solid state electrolyte made of aramid amphithiles, molecules that mimic
the durable framework of kevlar while enabling lithium ion conductivity.
When the battery's life ends, a simple solvent can turn
the electrolyte back into its molecular building blocks, causing the
(09:26):
battery to disassemble for easy component recovery. This means valuable
materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel can be reclaimed more efficiently,
cutting the risks and costs associated with mining virgin metals
and toxic battery disposal. Research lead ukyo Cho likened the
(09:46):
process to pulling apart a sandwich hell together by mayonnaise
instead of glue. The battery can be taken apart piece
by piece, rather than ground up in a messy, expensive process.
Industry experts agree this breakthrough could helps scale the circular
economy in evs, keeping batteries out of landfills and boosting
the domestic supply of critical materials. While further research is
(10:10):
needed to match commercial battery performance, MIT's approach has already
proved feasible in lab tests and is attracting attention from
automakers and sustainability advocates alike. With global EV sales forecasted
to jump twenty five percent this year, innovations like this
are urgently needed to meet environmental and supply chain challenges
(10:33):
as the technology advances. The hope is that next generation
EV's will be built for easy recycling, offering a practical
path toward a cleaner future and a more resilient green economy.
MIT's work has inspired optimism that battery waste can be
transformed into a renewable resource and that scientific imagination can
(10:55):
lead sustainable tech revolutions. Up next, a listener suggested story
back in a minute and Now. A listener suggested story
from Blue Virginia on blue Sky. Adalita Grihalva scored a
resounding victory in Arizona's seventh Congressional District special election, becoming
(11:20):
the first Latina woman from the state elected to Congress
and narrowing the Republican House majority even further. Grihalva is
set to fill the seat left by her late father,
progressive stalwart Raoul Grihalva, whose decades long legacy of fighting
for working families and justice shaped the district's values. With
(11:41):
nearly seventy percent of the vote, Grihalva's win reflected both
deep local support and widespread enthusiasm among progressives eager to
see the district continue to push for transparency and accountability.
This election drew national attention not only for its impact
on the House, but also for Grihalva's decisive commitment to
(12:03):
sign the discharge petition that would force a floor vote
to release the long sealed Jeffrey Epstein case files. Grihalva's
victory deliveries the crucial two hundred eighteenth signature, putting unprecedented
pressure on Congressional leaders to support survivors and demand answers
from all those impacted, including members of the Trump administration.
(12:27):
She emphasized that voters deserve justice and that the people
of southern Arizona stand for integrity, not cover ups. The
bipartisan discharge petition, championed by Representatives Thomas Massey and Rocanna,
had reached two hundred and seventeen signatures prior to Grihoalva's election,
with Massy confirming the House could move on the Epstein
(12:50):
bill as soon as mid October now that every necessary
signature is secured. While House GOP leadership has worked to
avoid this, Votela's swift action moves Congress closer to a reckoning,
giving voice to survivors, and holding power to account for
past abuses. Grihelva's win is celebrated not just for what
(13:11):
it means to the Epstein files, but also for what
it means in Arizona and beyond. A solid rejection of megapolitics,
renewed progressive momentum, and a clear message that ordinary people
can drive lasting changes at the highest levels of government.
With two more House vacancies due later this year, every
(13:33):
seat now carries historic weight in the drive for transparency, justice,
and real representation. Thanks so much for that story. Blue Virginia.
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share,
we would love to hear from you. Call or message
us at two zero two six five six six' two
(13:54):
seven to, one drop us a line At beowulf at
Two Squaredmedia productions dot, com or send it to us
at Good news For lefties On, Facebook instagram Or Blue
Sky Like Blue virginia. Did Supreme Court Justice Amy Cody
barrett's recent appearance at The Nixon library In Yorba, Linda
(14:15):
california drew a significant, protest reflecting growing backlash against her
role in shaping a far right court that has rolled
back fundamental rights and. Protections more than one hundred activists
gathered with signs and chants demanding That barrett stop supporting
the hard right agenda aligned With. Trump protesters criticized your
(14:37):
decisions that have undermined reproductive, freedom civil, rights and immigrant,
protections framing her as a key part of the court
that increasingly serves corporate and political interests at the expense
of ordinary. People the demonstrations underscored widespread frustration Over barrett's
pivotal roles and cases that have deepened inequality and limited
(14:57):
access to, healthcare, choice and. Justice opponents see her judicial
philosophy as an extension of political forces determined to strip away,
progress especially for marginalized. Communities barrett's alignment with conservative rulings
on abortion, RIGHTS lgbtq, equality and immigrant rights has galvanized
(15:17):
grassroots resistance that demands a more just and equitable. Judiciary
protesters relentlessly Challenged barrett's perceived loyalty TO maga politics and
called for a court that, protects rather than, restricts civil
liberties and democratic. PARTICIPATION a strong turnout at an event
nominally about her book reflects the broader urgency activists feel
(15:39):
to confront and counter act The court's conservative. Drift their
message The Supreme court must stop serving as a tool
for political agendas and start upholding the rights and dignity
of All. Americans that's a wrapper today's edition Of Good
news For. Lefties. Remember if these stories brighten your, outlook
(16:00):
please help us spread the word by rating and reviewing
us On Apple, Podcasts, spotify or your podcast platform of.
CHOICE a big thanks to our production, team Rosabelt heine
And Aaron watson for making all of this Possible behind the.
Scenes I'm Beowulf, rockland weird name good news for lefties And.
(16:22):
America stay tuned after this commercial break for more of,
me your humble and obedient, Servant AS i speak With
jen And dan of the Band camp.
Speaker 2 (16:43):
Podcast, Hey I'm John, fugel. Sang do you ever watch
These christian nationalists and right wing fundamentalists ON tv and
Think Jesus. Christ these people are the opposite Of Jesus.
Christ you, Know christianity was supposed to be about love and,
service but millions Of americans have grown up to find
their nice religions been hijacked by this mean authoritarian Tax Free.
(17:07):
CLICK i wrote a book about how these right wingers
aren't actually on the side Of jesus and historically they
never have. Been separation Of church and hate a same
Person's guide to taking back The bible from fundamentalist fascists
and flock pleasing. Frauds it's a very irreverent and biblically
correct book for, believers, atheist, agnostics and anybody who's ever
going to have to deal with A christian extremist in your, family,
(17:29):
workplace or government on all the issues that divide. Us
using actual verses from that, book they claim to follow
they've got A First amendment right to twist The bible
to their. Liking you've got a First amendment right to
call them out for, it and you'll be surprised at
how good it.
Speaker 1 (17:42):
Feels and now an excerpt from a recent episode of
the Band Camp podcast WHERE i speak with Hosts jen And.
Dan then go listen to the full Show the Band
Camp podcast that's banned with two ends bandcamppodcast dot com
and just a quick trigger warning here there may be
(18:02):
some clips Of Donald trump played in this next. Segment
it's time For Bandcab. News true new. Speaker they Will.
Frocklin it's a weird, name but he's got good news
because he can't be the.
Speaker 3 (18:18):
Truth he's broadcasting live from the Good news FOR Lefti,
studios buried deep inside his socialist safe, house hidden somewhere
deep in The oregon. Woods he Is Babe Wolf.
Speaker 1 (18:31):
Rockland Because Hello, Jen Hello, Dan hello scary book.
Speaker 3 (18:36):
People get this, Guy, JENNIFER i see very.
Speaker 1 (18:40):
Nice, hey there is something coming to The Deep south very.
Speaker 3 (18:46):
Soon trump And mobile finally making its way In.
Speaker 1 (18:48):
South the basic basic communications. Infrastructure. Yes Carrie fugu is
a military, widow, author, mother And Southerner she's the author
of the Memoir Alive day about her experience as a military,
spouse and she is put together a very interesting project
around band. Books born and raised In alabama and intimately
(19:12):
familiar with the inner workings of The United states, military
she knows. War she has watched as what she calls
a war on knowledge unfolding her. Community In march of this,
year An alabama board voted to defund a local library
under a new book band, law removing state funds from
The Fair Hope ranch after parents criticize the library for
(19:33):
carrying sexually explicit books that DEPICT lgbtq plus. Stories so
what's her. Answer she is converting a rus nineteen Forty
ford pickup truck into a traveling band. Bookstore she calls
it the band.
Speaker 2 (19:49):
Wagon, yeay lo of it all, right let's get in
touch with.
Speaker 1 (19:54):
Her it's. Awesome her goal is to put band and
challenge books back into the hands of people who need
them the, most people in the deep Red. South and
there are a lot of them there because we divide
ourselves into red and Blue. America but the truth, is
there's so many people in those, places especially in those,
places who want to, learn who want to help and
(20:16):
just can't because of the leadership. There this is a wonderful.
Mission her books are going to INCLUDE lgbtq plus youth
and other marginalized. Communities but she knows that everyone needs
access to books that challenge their. Worldview so she's going
to be taking a. Tour she is getting together a,
GoFundMe and she's about a quarter of the way there so.
(20:36):
Far she's reconverting. This she's going to stage events surround
it in different, places and basically it's a traveling book.
Show that's so.
Speaker 2 (20:45):
NICE i love.
Speaker 3 (20:46):
It we will include the link to the go fundme
in the show notes for this, episode AND i will
go personally make a. Donation Jan i'm going to put
you on the. Spot you will, True, YES i will
do it as long as you're, there throwing a couple
bucks your. Me don't be so.
Speaker 1 (20:59):
CHEAP i just thought it was very appropriate that the
Band camp show feature the Band wagon in a confluence
that was made in.
Speaker 3 (21:10):
HEAVEN i loved.
Speaker 1 (21:11):
IT i would love to reach out to. Her that's.
Speaker 3 (21:13):
Awesome, yeah maybe we can get, It. Robot would, you
for the love Of, god do, something do, anything reach
out and get her on the. Show it's really hard
nowadays because of The internet and because of TikTok and
YouTube And, instagram and it's harder to even want to,
(21:33):
read because who reads, Anymore like there's no reason for.
IT i was gonna, say it's similar to like, penmanship like,
handwriting cursive, writing do we even need it?
Speaker 1 (21:43):
Anymore or typing. Classes by the, way.
Speaker 3 (21:47):
Never taken a typing, class you.
Speaker 1 (21:49):
SEE i was forced. To and let me tell you.
Something back in the early nineteen, NINETIES i had a
typing class in which the teacher of that class taped
an upside down thumbtack to the backspace bar so that
you had to type. Everything if you, did you got
a little prick on you on your. Thumb isn't that?
Speaker 2 (22:08):
Illegal you can't do that to school.
Speaker 1 (22:10):
Kids they sure get, It Jesus.
Speaker 3 (22:13):
Stack then corporal. Punishment it's like whatever we can do
to hurt our.
Speaker 1 (22:17):
Students keep in, mind this was In Liberal Marin, County.
California this was like maybe one remnant teacher on the
verge of retirement or something like. That BUT i remember
that and by the pricking of my, thumbs something wicked
that way COMES i didn't get anything out of that,
CLASS i still content. Pack everybody hunts and. Pecks now
(22:38):
we type with with our thumbs on the little. Devices
it hasn't mattered for. Me it didn't matter, then which
was lady like nineteen ninety three or. NINE i gained
nothing from that class except for trauma and an interesting,
Anecdote and.
Speaker 3 (22:52):
To this, day unfortunately For, babel if he cannot use
his thumbs to. Type these phones are. Expensive you don't
want blood all over read these phones To. Jennifer but
back to the point about, LIKE i don't know a
cursive handwriting is? Important but is reading? Important reading seems
like it should be.
Speaker 1 (23:09):
Important it still, is because even when you're, online you
still need to know the basic skills of how to.
Read but the thing is too like the form of
a book is also. Important the form of a novel
is important because it develops characters and allows us to
imagine things in a long form way that we wouldn't
(23:30):
be able to. Otherwise it has crucial importance in developing
empathy because you have characters developing over the course of,
time and you realize they are, complete changing and complicated
people in a way that individual articles. Are individual posts
can't get across. You it's really important for young kids
to be able to see that and to see people
(23:52):
who are like themselves in those. Contexts SO i, think
especially for developing, minds, books, novels, stories different worldviews and
different kinds of people are super important for a society
that's supposed to have empathy and be able to develop
and interact with people of all.
Speaker 2 (24:11):
Kinds that's.
Speaker 3 (24:12):
Wrong go listen to the babel over and Good news For.
Lefties we agree at one hundred. Percent that's why we're
doing band.
Speaker 1 (24:19):
Camp, yeah, YEAH i love her ending. Quote here my,
DREAM a little truck full of band books rulings through The,
south spreading, truth freedom and hope one story at a.
Time such a beautiful way of encapsulating. IT i love.
It and listen To jen And dan on the Band
(24:40):
Camp podcast at band camp podcast dot com
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm Bailwolf Rockland,
your host, ready to help you swap out doom and
gloom for some genuine hope with uplifting stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists,
(00:28):
and anyone who believes in making America a better place
for everyone. Today's troubling headlines often overwhelm us, and I'm
sure if you follow the news, you'll read or hear
about some of them today. All the bad news makes
it easy to lose sight of hope, and that's exactly
why it's vital to highlight the positive progressive wins happening
(00:50):
every day in the United States of America. To help
us spread the positivity. If you enjoy the show, please
rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your
podcast platform of choice. It helps more lefties like you
hear more good news stories and stay positive and motivated
for the days ahead. Now, let's get to some good
(01:11):
news headlines designed to brighten your day. Microsoft has cut
off an elite Israeli military unit from key cloud and
Artificial intelligence services after discoveries that its technology fueled sweeping
surveillance of Palestinians. Following months of reporting by The Guardian
(01:32):
and advocacy from tech workers, Microsoft confirmed that Unit eighty
two hundred, the Israeli Defense Force's main signals intelligence arm,
used Microsoft's Azure Cloud to store and process a staggering
volume of intercepted Palestinian phone calls in both Gaza and
the West Bank. Microsoft launched a review in August after
(01:55):
public and internal pressure revealed the scale of Israel's surveillance operations,
which involved archiving up to a million private calls per hour.
This investigation confirmed that data from millions of Palestinians was
being warehoused on Microsoft servers in Europe. Company president Brad
Smith announced that the services would be deactivated immediately, emphasizing
(02:19):
that Microsoft's technology must never be used for indiscriminate monitoring
of civilians anywhere in the world. This step marks the
first time a major US tech firm has revoked services
from the Israeli military over human rights concerns, setting a
precedent for responsible technology use. Amid ongoing conflict, grassroots activism
(02:42):
by Microsoft employees, many of whom risked arrest and job
loss to protest helped push the company to act, with
digital justice organizations hailing the moment as a breakthrough for
tech worker organizing and the fight against surveillance and genocide.
While Israel's military downplayed the move, digital rights advocates and
(03:05):
local campaigners see this as a clear message powerful corporations
can and must take responsibility for their role in upholding
human rights. Microsoft's action is being celebrated as a vital
step toward ensuring global technology does not become a tool
for oppression, and as living proof of what's possible when
(03:25):
public pressure meets principled leadership. In a resounding show of
unity and purpose, nurses at HCA Florida Fort Walton Destin
Hospital voted overwhelmingly to join the National Nurses Organizing Committee
National Nurses United, the country's largest union of registered nurses.
(03:48):
More than sixty five percent sided with the movement during
a two day election, sending a clear message that frontline
caregivers are determined to put community health and patient well
being above corporate priorities. This victory follows persistent challenges including
short staffing, unsafe floating, outdated equipment, and workplace violence, conditions
(04:14):
nurses say undermine their ability to deliver compassionate, timely care.
Nurses describe unionizing as a pathway to meaningful change, putting
the lived needs of patients and caregivers firmly on management's agenda.
Emergency room nurse Paige Campbell celebrated the decision, explaining that
(04:36):
union representation finally gives nurses the leverage to win real
improvements for all those served by the hospital. Once recognized,
the Fort Walton destined nurses will join thousands already represented
at HCA facilities nationwide, with collective bargaining playing a pivotal
role in strengthening staffing and patient outcomes. NCNNU now represents
(05:03):
thirty five hundred nurses across eleven HCA Florida hospitals and
an additional sixty five hundred members in other states, standing
as a force for progressive patient advocacy and workplace fairness.
Their next step is forming a bargaining team to negotiate
their first contract, aiming to address the very issues that
(05:26):
drove the unionization campaign. The nurse's victory is electrifying not
just for hospital staff, but for families and communities across
the region who deserve safe staffing, reliable equipment, and the
highest standard of care with industry profits soaring and executive
pay skyrocketing. Nurses at Fort Walton Deston have shown that
(05:49):
organized people power is the antidote to corporate indifference, making
this a truly hopeful day for public health in Florida.
Connecticut has taken a major step forward for justice and
community safety, issuing a new statewide policy that bans law
(06:09):
enforcement from making warrantless arrests and prohibits masked immigrations Customs
enforcement agents inside courthouses. The move was announced by Chief
Justice Rahem Mullens alongside Governor Ned Lamont and legislative leaders
following a disturbing incident in Stamford where masked ICE agents
(06:30):
forcibly apprehended two men inside a courthouse bathroom. Officials emphasized
that everyone, regardless of immigration status, deserves to access the
courts without fear or intimidation. This policy ensures that only
arrests backed by a judicial warrant, rather than administrative ICE detainers,
(06:51):
can occur in Connecticut courthouses, reinforcing the right to safe
and open legal proceedings for witnesses, victims, litigants, and families. Crucially,
law enforcement agents are now barred from concealing their identity
with masks unless medically necessary, helping to build trust and
(07:13):
transparency in public spaces. Governor Lamont and Representative Steve Staffstrom
stressed that real justice means protecting vulnerable communities so they
can seek help on civil, family, and criminal matters without disruption.
State leaders expressed hope that federal agencies would respect Connecticut's
(07:35):
new guidelines, noting similar protections already in place for federal
courthouses in the state and policies recently adopted elsewhere. New
rules were shaped in consultation with ICE officials and inspired
by calls from Democratic lawmakers and the public, demonstrating a
priority to keep courthouse operations fair and free from heavy
(07:57):
handed enforcement tactics. Supporters ailed the new policy as an
essential affirmation of dignity, legal access, and community protection. With
this action, Connecticut joins a growing list of states promising
that access to justice will not be dictated by fear,
immigration status, or secretive enforcement. MIT researchers have unveiled a
(08:22):
transformative solution for recycling electric vehicle batteries, introducing a self
assembling material that could make dismantling and reusing critical battery components,
straightforward and sustainable, Unlike today's standard, which involves costly and
toxic shredding of batteries into black mass. The MIT team
(08:43):
designed a battery electrolyte that dissolves effortlessly in organic solvent,
allowing the main battery parts to be separated and recycled
with minimal difficulty. This approach reimagines ev battery design from
the ground up, prioritizing recyclability as a core principle, not
an afterthought. The centerpiece of MIT's innovation is a new
(09:06):
solid state electrolyte made of aramid amphithiles, molecules that mimic
the durable framework of kevlar while enabling lithium ion conductivity.
When the battery's life ends, a simple solvent can turn
the electrolyte back into its molecular building blocks, causing the
(09:26):
battery to disassemble for easy component recovery. This means valuable
materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel can be reclaimed more efficiently,
cutting the risks and costs associated with mining virgin metals
and toxic battery disposal. Research lead ukyo Cho likened the
(09:46):
process to pulling apart a sandwich hell together by mayonnaise
instead of glue. The battery can be taken apart piece
by piece, rather than ground up in a messy, expensive process.
Industry experts agree this breakthrough could helps scale the circular
economy in evs, keeping batteries out of landfills and boosting
the domestic supply of critical materials. While further research is
(10:10):
needed to match commercial battery performance, MIT's approach has already
proved feasible in lab tests and is attracting attention from
automakers and sustainability advocates alike. With global EV sales forecasted
to jump twenty five percent this year, innovations like this
are urgently needed to meet environmental and supply chain challenges
(10:33):
as the technology advances. The hope is that next generation
EV's will be built for easy recycling, offering a practical
path toward a cleaner future and a more resilient green economy.
MIT's work has inspired optimism that battery waste can be
transformed into a renewable resource and that scientific imagination can
(10:55):
lead sustainable tech revolutions. Up next, a listener suggested story
back in a minute and Now. A listener suggested story
from Blue Virginia on blue Sky. Adalita Grihalva scored a
resounding victory in Arizona's seventh Congressional District special election, becoming
(11:20):
the first Latina woman from the state elected to Congress
and narrowing the Republican House majority even further. Grihalva is
set to fill the seat left by her late father,
progressive stalwart Raoul Grihalva, whose decades long legacy of fighting
for working families and justice shaped the district's values. With
(11:41):
nearly seventy percent of the vote, Grihalva's win reflected both
deep local support and widespread enthusiasm among progressives eager to
see the district continue to push for transparency and accountability.
This election drew national attention not only for its impact
on the House, but also for Grihalva's decisive commitment to
(12:03):
sign the discharge petition that would force a floor vote
to release the long sealed Jeffrey Epstein case files. Grihalva's
victory deliveries the crucial two hundred eighteenth signature, putting unprecedented
pressure on Congressional leaders to support survivors and demand answers
from all those impacted, including members of the Trump administration.
(12:27):
She emphasized that voters deserve justice and that the people
of southern Arizona stand for integrity, not cover ups. The
bipartisan discharge petition, championed by Representatives Thomas Massey and Rocanna,
had reached two hundred and seventeen signatures prior to Grihoalva's election,
with Massy confirming the House could move on the Epstein
(12:50):
bill as soon as mid October now that every necessary
signature is secured. While House GOP leadership has worked to
avoid this, Votela's swift action moves Congress closer to a reckoning,
giving voice to survivors, and holding power to account for
past abuses. Grihelva's win is celebrated not just for what
(13:11):
it means to the Epstein files, but also for what
it means in Arizona and beyond. A solid rejection of megapolitics,
renewed progressive momentum, and a clear message that ordinary people
can drive lasting changes at the highest levels of government.
With two more House vacancies due later this year, every
(13:33):
seat now carries historic weight in the drive for transparency, justice,
and real representation. Thanks so much for that story. Blue Virginia.
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share,
we would love to hear from you. Call or message
us at two zero two six five six six' two
(13:54):
seven to, one drop us a line At beowulf at
Two Squaredmedia productions dot, com or send it to us
at Good news For lefties On, Facebook instagram Or Blue
Sky Like Blue virginia. Did Supreme Court Justice Amy Cody
barrett's recent appearance at The Nixon library In Yorba, Linda
(14:15):
california drew a significant, protest reflecting growing backlash against her
role in shaping a far right court that has rolled
back fundamental rights and. Protections more than one hundred activists
gathered with signs and chants demanding That barrett stop supporting
the hard right agenda aligned With. Trump protesters criticized your
(14:37):
decisions that have undermined reproductive, freedom civil, rights and immigrant,
protections framing her as a key part of the court
that increasingly serves corporate and political interests at the expense
of ordinary. People the demonstrations underscored widespread frustration Over barrett's
pivotal roles and cases that have deepened inequality and limited
(14:57):
access to, healthcare, choice and. Justice opponents see her judicial
philosophy as an extension of political forces determined to strip away,
progress especially for marginalized. Communities barrett's alignment with conservative rulings
on abortion, RIGHTS lgbtq, equality and immigrant rights has galvanized
(15:17):
grassroots resistance that demands a more just and equitable. Judiciary
protesters relentlessly Challenged barrett's perceived loyalty TO maga politics and
called for a court that, protects rather than, restricts civil
liberties and democratic. PARTICIPATION a strong turnout at an event
nominally about her book reflects the broader urgency activists feel
(15:39):
to confront and counter act The court's conservative. Drift their
message The Supreme court must stop serving as a tool
for political agendas and start upholding the rights and dignity
of All. Americans that's a wrapper today's edition Of Good
news For. Lefties. Remember if these stories brighten your, outlook
(16:00):
please help us spread the word by rating and reviewing
us On Apple, Podcasts, spotify or your podcast platform of.
CHOICE a big thanks to our production, team Rosabelt heine
And Aaron watson for making all of this Possible behind the.
Scenes I'm Beowulf, rockland weird name good news for lefties And.
(16:22):
America stay tuned after this commercial break for more of,
me your humble and obedient, Servant AS i speak With
jen And dan of the Band camp.
Speaker 2 (16:43):
Podcast, Hey I'm John, fugel. Sang do you ever watch
These christian nationalists and right wing fundamentalists ON tv and
Think Jesus. Christ these people are the opposite Of Jesus.
Christ you, Know christianity was supposed to be about love and,
service but millions Of americans have grown up to find
their nice religions been hijacked by this mean authoritarian Tax Free.
(17:07):
CLICK i wrote a book about how these right wingers
aren't actually on the side Of jesus and historically they
never have. Been separation Of church and hate a same
Person's guide to taking back The bible from fundamentalist fascists
and flock pleasing. Frauds it's a very irreverent and biblically
correct book for, believers, atheist, agnostics and anybody who's ever
going to have to deal with A christian extremist in your, family,
(17:29):
workplace or government on all the issues that divide. Us
using actual verses from that, book they claim to follow
they've got A First amendment right to twist The bible
to their. Liking you've got a First amendment right to
call them out for, it and you'll be surprised at
how good it.
Speaker 1 (17:42):
Feels and now an excerpt from a recent episode of
the Band Camp podcast WHERE i speak with Hosts jen And.
Dan then go listen to the full Show the Band
Camp podcast that's banned with two ends bandcamppodcast dot com
and just a quick trigger warning here there may be
(18:02):
some clips Of Donald trump played in this next. Segment
it's time For Bandcab. News true new. Speaker they Will.
Frocklin it's a weird, name but he's got good news
because he can't be the.
Speaker 3 (18:18):
Truth he's broadcasting live from the Good news FOR Lefti,
studios buried deep inside his socialist safe, house hidden somewhere
deep in The oregon. Woods he Is Babe Wolf.
Speaker 1 (18:31):
Rockland Because Hello, Jen Hello, Dan hello scary book.
Speaker 3 (18:36):
People get this, Guy, JENNIFER i see very.
Speaker 1 (18:40):
Nice, hey there is something coming to The Deep south very.
Speaker 3 (18:46):
Soon trump And mobile finally making its way In.
Speaker 1 (18:48):
South the basic basic communications. Infrastructure. Yes Carrie fugu is
a military, widow, author, mother And Southerner she's the author
of the Memoir Alive day about her experience as a military,
spouse and she is put together a very interesting project
around band. Books born and raised In alabama and intimately
(19:12):
familiar with the inner workings of The United states, military
she knows. War she has watched as what she calls
a war on knowledge unfolding her. Community In march of this,
year An alabama board voted to defund a local library
under a new book band, law removing state funds from
The Fair Hope ranch after parents criticize the library for
(19:33):
carrying sexually explicit books that DEPICT lgbtq plus. Stories so
what's her. Answer she is converting a rus nineteen Forty
ford pickup truck into a traveling band. Bookstore she calls
it the band.
Speaker 2 (19:49):
Wagon, yeay lo of it all, right let's get in
touch with.
Speaker 1 (19:54):
Her it's. Awesome her goal is to put band and
challenge books back into the hands of people who need
them the, most people in the deep Red. South and
there are a lot of them there because we divide
ourselves into red and Blue. America but the truth, is
there's so many people in those, places especially in those,
places who want to, learn who want to help and
(20:16):
just can't because of the leadership. There this is a wonderful.
Mission her books are going to INCLUDE lgbtq plus youth
and other marginalized. Communities but she knows that everyone needs
access to books that challenge their. Worldview so she's going
to be taking a. Tour she is getting together a,
GoFundMe and she's about a quarter of the way there so.
(20:36):
Far she's reconverting. This she's going to stage events surround
it in different, places and basically it's a traveling book.
Show that's so.
Speaker 2 (20:45):
NICE i love.
Speaker 3 (20:46):
It we will include the link to the go fundme
in the show notes for this, episode AND i will
go personally make a. Donation Jan i'm going to put
you on the. Spot you will, True, YES i will
do it as long as you're, there throwing a couple
bucks your. Me don't be so.
Speaker 1 (20:59):
CHEAP i just thought it was very appropriate that the
Band camp show feature the Band wagon in a confluence
that was made in.
Speaker 3 (21:10):
HEAVEN i loved.
Speaker 1 (21:11):
IT i would love to reach out to. Her that's.
Speaker 3 (21:13):
Awesome, yeah maybe we can get, It. Robot would, you
for the love Of, god do, something do, anything reach
out and get her on the. Show it's really hard
nowadays because of The internet and because of TikTok and
YouTube And, instagram and it's harder to even want to,
(21:33):
read because who reads, Anymore like there's no reason for.
IT i was gonna, say it's similar to like, penmanship like,
handwriting cursive, writing do we even need it?
Speaker 1 (21:43):
Anymore or typing. Classes by the, way.
Speaker 3 (21:47):
Never taken a typing, class you.
Speaker 1 (21:49):
SEE i was forced. To and let me tell you.
Something back in the early nineteen, NINETIES i had a
typing class in which the teacher of that class taped
an upside down thumbtack to the backspace bar so that
you had to type. Everything if you, did you got
a little prick on you on your. Thumb isn't that?
Speaker 2 (22:08):
Illegal you can't do that to school.
Speaker 1 (22:10):
Kids they sure get, It Jesus.
Speaker 3 (22:13):
Stack then corporal. Punishment it's like whatever we can do
to hurt our.
Speaker 1 (22:17):
Students keep in, mind this was In Liberal Marin, County.
California this was like maybe one remnant teacher on the
verge of retirement or something like. That BUT i remember
that and by the pricking of my, thumbs something wicked
that way COMES i didn't get anything out of that,
CLASS i still content. Pack everybody hunts and. Pecks now
(22:38):
we type with with our thumbs on the little. Devices
it hasn't mattered for. Me it didn't matter, then which
was lady like nineteen ninety three or. NINE i gained
nothing from that class except for trauma and an interesting,
Anecdote and.
Speaker 3 (22:52):
To this, day unfortunately For, babel if he cannot use
his thumbs to. Type these phones are. Expensive you don't
want blood all over read these phones To. Jennifer but
back to the point about, LIKE i don't know a
cursive handwriting is? Important but is reading? Important reading seems
like it should be.
Speaker 1 (23:09):
Important it still, is because even when you're, online you
still need to know the basic skills of how to.
Read but the thing is too like the form of
a book is also. Important the form of a novel
is important because it develops characters and allows us to
imagine things in a long form way that we wouldn't
(23:30):
be able to. Otherwise it has crucial importance in developing
empathy because you have characters developing over the course of,
time and you realize they are, complete changing and complicated
people in a way that individual articles. Are individual posts
can't get across. You it's really important for young kids
to be able to see that and to see people
(23:52):
who are like themselves in those. Contexts SO i, think
especially for developing, minds, books, novels, stories different worldviews and
different kinds of people are super important for a society
that's supposed to have empathy and be able to develop
and interact with people of all.
Speaker 2 (24:11):
Kinds that's.
Speaker 3 (24:12):
Wrong go listen to the babel over and Good news For.
Lefties we agree at one hundred. Percent that's why we're
doing band.
Speaker 1 (24:19):
Camp, yeah, YEAH i love her ending. Quote here my,
DREAM a little truck full of band books rulings through The,
south spreading, truth freedom and hope one story at a.
Time such a beautiful way of encapsulating. IT i love.
It and listen To jen And dan on the Band
(24:40):
Camp podcast at band camp podcast dot com
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