October 1, 2025 • 20 mins
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, we dive into a series of uplifting stories that highlight resilience, accountability, and progressive victories across the nation. We begin with Amazon's landmark $2.5 billion settlement with the Federal Trade Commission, a significant win for consumer rights that holds the tech giant accountable for misleading subscription practices. This settlement not only promises restitution for millions of affected customers but also mandates crucial changes to Amazon's signup and cancellation processes, ensuring that consumer choice takes precedence in the digital marketplace.
Next, Rhode Island and Connecticut are taking bold action against the Trump administration's abrupt halt of the nearly completed Revolution Wind project. By suing the administration, they advocate for clean energy jobs and affordable electricity, emphasizing the importance of environmental integrity and community trust. A federal judge's decision to resume work on the project marks a pivotal moment in the fight for renewable energy in America, demonstrating the power of persistent advocacy.
We also celebrate George Takei's appointment as honorary chair of Banned Books Week 2025, a campaign that champions the right to read and opposes censorship. Takei's personal experiences as a Japanese American internment survivor and LGBTQ activist underscore the importance of diverse narratives in literature, urging Americans to stand against the wave of censorship sweeping the country.
In a stunning example of energy efficiency, a mid-century co-op in Manhattan has transitioned to a fully electric system, achieving significant reductions in utility costs and greenhouse gas emissions. This project sets a new standard for sustainability in urban living, proving that bold climate-friendly upgrades can enhance both affordability and comfort for residents.
We also highlight a recent court victory in Montana, where a federal judge struck down a plan to expand livestock grazing in critical grizzly bear habitat, emphasizing the need for responsible wildlife conservation. This ruling reinforces the principle that public lands must prioritize ecological health over short-term commercial interests.
Finally, we share the inspiring journey of Rich Logis, a former MAGA supporter who now helps others navigate their exit from the movement through his nonprofit, Leaving MAGA. His story illustrates the power of personal transformation and community support in overcoming divisive ideologies.
Join us as we celebrate these encouraging 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/technology/2025/sep/25/amazon-prime-ftc-settlement
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/04/rhode-island-connecticut-trump-administration-revolution-wind
https://apnews.com/article/george-takei-banned-books-week-cda7d9feb689c61f58c2594407d2811c
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/new-york-electric-co-op-apartment-building-bright-future/
https://www.courthousenews.com/judge-strikes-down-livestock-grazing-plan-in-montana-grizzly-habitat/
https://www.rawstory.com/raw-investigates/escape-maga/
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podca
Next, Rhode Island and Connecticut are taking bold action against the Trump administration's abrupt halt of the nearly completed Revolution Wind project. By suing the administration, they advocate for clean energy jobs and affordable electricity, emphasizing the importance of environmental integrity and community trust. A federal judge's decision to resume work on the project marks a pivotal moment in the fight for renewable energy in America, demonstrating the power of persistent advocacy.
We also celebrate George Takei's appointment as honorary chair of Banned Books Week 2025, a campaign that champions the right to read and opposes censorship. Takei's personal experiences as a Japanese American internment survivor and LGBTQ activist underscore the importance of diverse narratives in literature, urging Americans to stand against the wave of censorship sweeping the country.
In a stunning example of energy efficiency, a mid-century co-op in Manhattan has transitioned to a fully electric system, achieving significant reductions in utility costs and greenhouse gas emissions. This project sets a new standard for sustainability in urban living, proving that bold climate-friendly upgrades can enhance both affordability and comfort for residents.
We also highlight a recent court victory in Montana, where a federal judge struck down a plan to expand livestock grazing in critical grizzly bear habitat, emphasizing the need for responsible wildlife conservation. This ruling reinforces the principle that public lands must prioritize ecological health over short-term commercial interests.
Finally, we share the inspiring journey of Rich Logis, a former MAGA supporter who now helps others navigate their exit from the movement through his nonprofit, Leaving MAGA. His story illustrates the power of personal transformation and community support in overcoming divisive ideologies.
Join us as we celebrate these encouraging 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/technology/2025/sep/25/amazon-prime-ftc-settlement
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/04/rhode-island-connecticut-trump-administration-revolution-wind
https://apnews.com/article/george-takei-banned-books-week-cda7d9feb689c61f58c2594407d2811c
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/new-york-electric-co-op-apartment-building-bright-future/
https://www.courthousenews.com/judge-strikes-down-livestock-grazing-plan-in-montana-grizzly-habitat/
https://www.rawstory.com/raw-investigates/escape-maga/
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podca
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, Hello, Hello, and
thank you for joining another episode of Good News for
left East. I'm Baowulf Ackland, your host, ready to help
you swap out doom and gloom for some genuine hope
with uplifting stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberal 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
(00:53):
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
(01:13):
for the days ahead. Now, let's get to some good
news headlines designed to brighten your day. Amazon's two point
five billion dollar settlement with the Federal Trade Commission marks
a notable win for consumer rights and showcases the growing
power of effective government oversight. The FTC's action, sparked by
(01:37):
widespread complaints of consumers being signed up for Amazon Prime
without clear consent and then getting ensnared in a needlessly
complex cancellation process, holds one of the world's largest corporations
directly accountable for its choices. Millions of everyday Americans who
were swept into Prime subscriptions without genuinely opting in can
(02:01):
now expect a share of the one point five billion
dollar fund set aside for restitution, promising direct financial relief
for as many as thirty five million customers. This outcome
signals a step forward in ensuring that tech giants operate
on terms that respect fair treatment of people, not just
(02:25):
profit margins. The settlement doesn't just offer restitution, It forces
Amazon to overhaul its sign up and cancelation systems, requiring
clear opt out choices and straightforward cancelation pathways. These meaningful
improvements are expected to make Prime membership genuinely voluntary and
(02:46):
fully under customer control going forward for the broader movement
toward adjust economy. The case illustrates the importance and real
impact of government intervention under the FTC's news instructions. Amazon
is prohibited from using manipulative online tactics that quietly enroll
(03:07):
people in paid services. These changes were driven by persistent
advocacy and organizing that forced open the black box of
corporate tech interfaces. No longer can platforms rely on design
tricks or foot dragging bureaucracy to lock in subscribers against
(03:27):
their will. While Amazon still faces additional legal challenges over
its monopolistic behavior, the present settlement builds momentum for greater
accountability across the tech sector. Progressive pressure is working. More
and more regulators are standing up for people's rights online
and putting consumer choice at the heart of the digital marketplace.
(03:52):
Rhode Island and Connecticut are taking a stand for clean
energy and good jobs, suing the Trump administration for its
abrupt halt of the nearly completed Revolution Wind project. Both
states alleged the administration acted unlawfully when it attempted to
derail a project that was already eighty per cent built
and fully permitted after years of rigorous environmental and national
(04:16):
security reviews. State official stress that this reckless order jeopardizes
thousands of union jobs, affordable electricity for hundreds of thousands
of homes and billions of dollars in investment that would
help the region fight the climate crisis. Leaders from both
states have made it clear the administration's backward pivot on
(04:39):
offshore Wind is a direct attack on working families, economic progress,
and responsible climate action. Connecticut Attorney General William Tung called
the federal move erratic and reckless, while Rhode Island's Senator
Sheldon Whitehouse described it as fueling higher energy costs than
accelerating climate threats, all to appease fossil fuel backers. Even
(05:02):
Republican leaning union workers who helped build Revolution Wind have
voiced outrage, saying the shutdown tramples both jobs and community trust.
Legal filings highlight that the stop work order was issued
without real evidence or statutory authority, just vague references to
unsubstantiated national security concerns both orsted and skyborne renewables. The
(05:27):
project's developers immediately sued for an injunction, warning that delays
could escalate costs by over one billion dollars in risk
project cancelation. A federal judge promptly sided with the developers,
slamming the administration's move as arbitrary and capricious and ordering
work on the project to resume. This case is now
(05:48):
a pivotal fight for the future of renewables in America.
Rhode Island and Connecticut are demonstrating the power of persistent
people first advocacy to overcome politically motivated obstacles and secure
a cleaner, more affordable energy future. For New England, the
tide is turning against the fossil fuel lobby, with courts
(06:09):
citing squarely with public interest and renewable innovation. Before we
get back to the news, I want to tell you
about an important podcast called This Week Again, hosted by
Suzanne Posele. It takes a humorous look at politics and
current events one week at a time. It's a funny, angry, progressive, sarcastic,
(06:30):
hilarious podcast that drops every Sunday and, in my opinion,
is the largest single repository of creatively insulting names for
Donald Trump. Mango Mussolini and Orange Julius Caesar are just
the beginning. So if you want to recap of the
week and you want a laugh into the bargain, listen
to This Week Again with Suzanne Posele on this platform
(06:52):
or wherever you listen to podcasts That's This Week Again
with Suzanne Posel, s us A n n An e
pos e L This Week Again, Listen, Laugh, Repeat. George
Takay has been named the honorary chair of Banned Book
Weeks twenty twenty five, a national campaign that celebrates the
(07:15):
right to read and shines a spotlight on efforts to
remove books from libraries and schools. The American Library Association
selected the veteran actor and activist who has powerfully shared
his experiences both as a childhood survivor of Japanese American
incarceration during World War II and is a gay man
who came out later in life. Tokay's own acclaimed graphic
(07:39):
memoir They Called Us Enemy, has been a frequent target
of censors, underscoring the urgent need for this year's campaign.
Takay's mission for Banned Books Week draws on his deeply
personal memories of isolation and hunger for understanding, first as
a child behind barbed wire, then as a young man
searching for lg GBTQ representation in literature. He has urged
(08:03):
Americans to stand together against the wave of censorship sweeping
the country, noting that books are critical to nurturing informed,
empathetic societies. Please stand with me in opposing censorship, to
Kay said, so that we all can find ourselves and
each other in books. Banned Books Week running October fifth
(08:23):
through eleventh, is now in its forty third year and
centers on the theme censorship is So nineteen eighty four
Read Your Rights to Kay's appointment highlights how bands continue
to target works by and about LGBTQ people and communities
of color. His latest memoir, at Rhymes with Decay is
expected to provoke further important conversations about identity, oppression, and
(08:48):
resilience in the face of injustice. Ta Ka will share
his leadership with Honorary Youth Chair Iris Mogul, an anti
banning activist and college student. Together they'll call on on readers,
writers and librarians to resist efforts to keep marginalized stories
off shelves and to champion the transformative power of reading,
(09:09):
especially in challenging times. A mid century Manhattan co op
has become a trailblazer for energy efficiency, embracing a fully
electric future that's already paying off for its residents and
the climate. The thirteen story, one hundred and ten unit
building at four to twenty Beakman Hill, once powered by
(09:29):
gas fueled steam, has replaced its outdated system with state
of the art heat pumps, slashing utility bills and shrinking
its carbon footprint. The move enabled the building to meet
New York City's ambitious emissions targets twenty five years ahead
of schedule, setting a new sustainability standard under local Law
ninety seven. Residents, led by architect and board member Randy Gerder,
(09:54):
rally behind the vision to ditch fossil fuels, leveraging public
incentives and grants to make the three point eight million
dollar retrofit viable. They secured over one million dollars from
con Edison plus help from New York's energy programs, demonstrating
how strategic leadership and city support can empower older buildings
(10:15):
to modernize without financial hardship. Even during construction, daily life
went uninterrupted and residents maintained full access to heating and cooling,
proving such transitions can be painless and practical. The project's
technical success went beyond just swapping out equipment. Engineers designed
(10:35):
a system that not only provides individual climate comfort with
rooftop heat pumps, but also recycles excess heat in summer
to produce hot water more efficiently. A smart monitoring setup
insures reliability and fair use across the building, while community
engagement and transparent decision making built resident trust throughout the process. Today,
(10:58):
the building's utility caststs have dropped by forty percent, residents
are enjoying more comfortable homes, and the greenhouse gas emissions
have fallen by over seventy five percent, With most co
op apartments still below Midtown's median price. Beakman's Hill overhaul
stands as proof that bold, climate friendly upgrades can boost
(11:19):
value and affordability, while inspiring other New Yorkers to join
the clean energy movement. Up next, a listener suggested story
back in a minute, and now, a listener suggested story
from ingrid in Bozeman, Montana. A federal judge in Montana
(11:39):
has delivered a vital wind for wildlife conservation, striking down
a plan to expand livestock grazing in key grizzly bear
habitat just north of Yellowstone National Park. The court found
that the US Forest Service had failed to properly assess
the broad impacts on grizzly connectivity, as required by environmental
(12:01):
law and ordered officials to revisit the East Paradise grazing
proposal with a more rigorous analysis before authorizing any future expansion.
Conservation groups argued, and the judge agreed that putting more
cattle into core recovery areas would undermine recovery have threatened
grizzlies by increasing risks of deadly conflicts and fragmenting the
(12:23):
crucial pathways these bears need to move, mate, and thrive.
The court's decision noted that habitat connectivity is essential to
the long term viability of grizzlies in the lower forty
eight states. While the Forest Service correctly described the current
baseline for grizzly populations, it failed to weigh cumulative grazing
(12:45):
impacts and neglected to prepare a full environmental impact statement.
Both serious legal oversights advocates and wildlife attorneys welcome the ruling,
emphasizing that federal agencies must rely on the best available
science and prioritize er cutovery over short term commercial interests.
This case shines a spotline on the need for responsible
(13:06):
management of public lands where stewardship of endangered species must
take precedence. The Judges directives now protect important corridors for
genetic exchange between Yellowstone and Glacier area bears, a goal
scientists say is fundamental to restoring healthy populations. The Judges
(13:27):
directives now protect important corridors for genetic exchange between Yellowstone
National Park and Glacier National Park Area bears, a goal
scientists say is fundamental to restoring healthy populations. While Rancher
has expressed disappointment over lost grazing allotments, conservation voices insisted
that public lands are not just for profit, their home
(13:50):
to irreplaceable wildlife and natural heritage. With this precedent, the
Forest Service is required to reconsider its decision. Grisley recovery
a much needed boost and reaffirming the principle that America's
wild spaces must serve ecological and community needs first. Thank
(14:11):
you so much for that story, ingrid. If you have thoughts, ideas,
or more good news to share, we'd love to hear
from you. Call or message us at two zero two
six five six six' two seven to, one drop us
a line At beowulf at two Squared Media productions dot,
com or send it to us at Good news For
(14:31):
lefties On Facebook instagram Or Blue. Sky Rich, logis once
a DEVOTED maga supporter and, activist has turned his personal
transformation into a lifeline for others looking to escape the movement's.
Grip as the founder of the Nonprofit Leaving, Maga logis
helps Former trump backers who feel lost in conspiracy, theories
(14:55):
alienated from friends and, family and overwhelmed by a community
that often demands loyalty above all. Else logis's journey from
writing call scripts For trump campaigns and hosting a right
wing podcast to publicly denouncing his past support reflects a
deep reckoning with the lies and chaos he once. Embraced
(15:16):
he now dedicates himself to providing a supportive community and
practical guidance for those questioning mega, beliefs emphasizing empathy and
understanding instead of. Judgment Leaving maga has grown into a
bustling nonprofit offering resources and stories to help people heal
from the movement's divisiveness and regain connection with loved. Ones
(15:40):
logis describes the work as an unlikely accidental activism rooted
in making amends and fostering hope for a more democratic.
Future his work addresses the ISOLATION maga ideology, creates giving
people an exit ram to rediscover stability and. Truth through
his own experience in, Leadership logis shines a light on
(16:02):
the human side of political, division showing that LEAVING maga
isn't just a political, act but a journey toward personal
liberation and rebuilding community. Ties his growing network signals a
powerful movement of recovery and resilience away from political. Cultism
and that's a wrap for today's edition Of Good news For.
(16:23):
Lefties remember if these stories brighten your, outlook 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 Roosabelt heine And Aaron watson for
making all of this possible behind the. Scenes I'm, bowelfrocklin
(16:44):
weird name Good news For lefties And.
Speaker 2 (16:48):
America here's what you've been missing on The Stephanie Miller
Happy hour. PODCAST i think.
Speaker 3 (17:11):
It just harks back To trump's particular style of.
Speaker 4 (17:14):
Negotiating you, know one day it's Like zelenski's the worst
and we're going to take away all your weapons and your,
Equipment AND i mean it just shows a level of abject.
Desperation he really thinks he can play an X kgb
dictator by, saying, well Maybe ukraine will. Win BUT i
want to point one thing out in that little. Comment
(17:35):
he did not say The United. States he Said europe AND.
Nato and the way he's been talking is we'll, sell you,
know because he's out to make money personal we'll sell
equipment To.
Speaker 3 (17:48):
Europe but when he MEANS, nato he MEANS nato without The.
Speaker 4 (17:50):
United, states with minimal responsibility over. There and now it's
about Maybe i'll just go make my money off Of.
Ukraine and he really Thinks putin is you want to
come crawling to. Him expect a massive provocation to Make
trump look.
Speaker 3 (18:04):
Stupid thank, You.
Speaker 5 (18:06):
MALCOLM i was going to, say this is what's they always,
say it's whoever he talks to, last because he's such
a dunce because he talked To. Zelensky All putin has
to do is threaten him or or you, know suck
up to.
Speaker 3 (18:16):
Him And i'll, say one.
Speaker 5 (18:18):
Hundred and eighty degree the opposite the next, day won't.
HE i mean he's done this.
Speaker 4 (18:21):
Before, yeah, absolutely and so do all of his psycho.
Speaker 3 (18:24):
FANS i don't know who wrote that up for.
Speaker 4 (18:26):
Him my guess Is Marco rubio is the one who
wrote that up for.
Speaker 3 (18:31):
Him but those aren't his. WORDS i mean, one they're, coherent,
right not how we. Talk they offer a.
Speaker 4 (18:38):
Policy from beginning to, end so that's not his H,
so you, KNOW i don't think The United states is
going back to the side Of. ZELENSKY i think he's
going to the side of whoever can pay him and
his friend's.
Speaker 2 (18:52):
Money subscribe to The Stephanie Miller Happy our podcast On Apple,
Podcasts Stephanie miller dot com or where you get your favorite, podcasts.
Speaker 1 (19:06):
And in case you missed, it here's this good news.
Headline california has become the first state in the nation
to prohibit most law enforcement, officers including federal immigration, agents
from wearing masks or face coverings while carrying out official.
Duties Governor Gavin newsom signed the measure On, saturday declaring
(19:28):
that the state has a responsibility to ensure residents can
identify those wielding state and federal. Power the new law
comes in direct response to heavily criticized immigration raids In
Los angeles earlier this, year where federal agents and masks
conducted sweeping arrests that sparked community outrage and. Protests advocates
(19:50):
argued the practice created a fear and intimidation while Denying
californians a basic level of. Accountability civil rights groups pray
to move as a recognition that transparency in policing is
essential to building trust between officers and the communities they.
Serve during the, Raids Donald trump escalated tensions by Sending
(20:13):
National guard troops and marines into the, city an unprecedented
deployment that critics say militarize to civil enforcement. Action in,
Contrast california leaders pushed back with legislation meant to protect
immigrant communities and residents from secretive enforcement. Tactics by banning
(20:33):
face coverings for, Officers california has taken another step in
setting a national standard for civil rights and community. Trust
supporters say residents should always know who is policing their,
neighborhoods and the change reflects a vision of public safety
that is, open, accountable and respectful of democratic. Values
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, Hello, Hello, and
thank you for joining another episode of Good News for
left East. I'm Baowulf Ackland, your host, ready to help
you swap out doom and gloom for some genuine hope
with uplifting stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberal 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
(00:53):
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
(01:13):
for the days ahead. Now, let's get to some good
news headlines designed to brighten your day. Amazon's two point
five billion dollar settlement with the Federal Trade Commission marks
a notable win for consumer rights and showcases the growing
power of effective government oversight. The FTC's action, sparked by
(01:37):
widespread complaints of consumers being signed up for Amazon Prime
without clear consent and then getting ensnared in a needlessly
complex cancellation process, holds one of the world's largest corporations
directly accountable for its choices. Millions of everyday Americans who
were swept into Prime subscriptions without genuinely opting in can
(02:01):
now expect a share of the one point five billion
dollar fund set aside for restitution, promising direct financial relief
for as many as thirty five million customers. This outcome
signals a step forward in ensuring that tech giants operate
on terms that respect fair treatment of people, not just
(02:25):
profit margins. The settlement doesn't just offer restitution, It forces
Amazon to overhaul its sign up and cancelation systems, requiring
clear opt out choices and straightforward cancelation pathways. These meaningful
improvements are expected to make Prime membership genuinely voluntary and
(02:46):
fully under customer control going forward for the broader movement
toward adjust economy. The case illustrates the importance and real
impact of government intervention under the FTC's news instructions. Amazon
is prohibited from using manipulative online tactics that quietly enroll
(03:07):
people in paid services. These changes were driven by persistent
advocacy and organizing that forced open the black box of
corporate tech interfaces. No longer can platforms rely on design
tricks or foot dragging bureaucracy to lock in subscribers against
(03:27):
their will. While Amazon still faces additional legal challenges over
its monopolistic behavior, the present settlement builds momentum for greater
accountability across the tech sector. Progressive pressure is working. More
and more regulators are standing up for people's rights online
and putting consumer choice at the heart of the digital marketplace.
(03:52):
Rhode Island and Connecticut are taking a stand for clean
energy and good jobs, suing the Trump administration for its
abrupt halt of the nearly completed Revolution Wind project. Both
states alleged the administration acted unlawfully when it attempted to
derail a project that was already eighty per cent built
and fully permitted after years of rigorous environmental and national
(04:16):
security reviews. State official stress that this reckless order jeopardizes
thousands of union jobs, affordable electricity for hundreds of thousands
of homes and billions of dollars in investment that would
help the region fight the climate crisis. Leaders from both
states have made it clear the administration's backward pivot on
(04:39):
offshore Wind is a direct attack on working families, economic progress,
and responsible climate action. Connecticut Attorney General William Tung called
the federal move erratic and reckless, while Rhode Island's Senator
Sheldon Whitehouse described it as fueling higher energy costs than
accelerating climate threats, all to appease fossil fuel backers. Even
(05:02):
Republican leaning union workers who helped build Revolution Wind have
voiced outrage, saying the shutdown tramples both jobs and community trust.
Legal filings highlight that the stop work order was issued
without real evidence or statutory authority, just vague references to
unsubstantiated national security concerns both orsted and skyborne renewables. The
(05:27):
project's developers immediately sued for an injunction, warning that delays
could escalate costs by over one billion dollars in risk
project cancelation. A federal judge promptly sided with the developers,
slamming the administration's move as arbitrary and capricious and ordering
work on the project to resume. This case is now
(05:48):
a pivotal fight for the future of renewables in America.
Rhode Island and Connecticut are demonstrating the power of persistent
people first advocacy to overcome politically motivated obstacles and secure
a cleaner, more affordable energy future. For New England, the
tide is turning against the fossil fuel lobby, with courts
(06:09):
citing squarely with public interest and renewable innovation. Before we
get back to the news, I want to tell you
about an important podcast called This Week Again, hosted by
Suzanne Posele. It takes a humorous look at politics and
current events one week at a time. It's a funny, angry, progressive, sarcastic,
(06:30):
hilarious podcast that drops every Sunday and, in my opinion,
is the largest single repository of creatively insulting names for
Donald Trump. Mango Mussolini and Orange Julius Caesar are just
the beginning. So if you want to recap of the
week and you want a laugh into the bargain, listen
to This Week Again with Suzanne Posele on this platform
(06:52):
or wherever you listen to podcasts That's This Week Again
with Suzanne Posel, s us A n n An e
pos e L This Week Again, Listen, Laugh, Repeat. George
Takay has been named the honorary chair of Banned Book
Weeks twenty twenty five, a national campaign that celebrates the
(07:15):
right to read and shines a spotlight on efforts to
remove books from libraries and schools. The American Library Association
selected the veteran actor and activist who has powerfully shared
his experiences both as a childhood survivor of Japanese American
incarceration during World War II and is a gay man
who came out later in life. Tokay's own acclaimed graphic
(07:39):
memoir They Called Us Enemy, has been a frequent target
of censors, underscoring the urgent need for this year's campaign.
Takay's mission for Banned Books Week draws on his deeply
personal memories of isolation and hunger for understanding, first as
a child behind barbed wire, then as a young man
searching for lg GBTQ representation in literature. He has urged
(08:03):
Americans to stand together against the wave of censorship sweeping
the country, noting that books are critical to nurturing informed,
empathetic societies. Please stand with me in opposing censorship, to
Kay said, so that we all can find ourselves and
each other in books. Banned Books Week running October fifth
(08:23):
through eleventh, is now in its forty third year and
centers on the theme censorship is So nineteen eighty four
Read Your Rights to Kay's appointment highlights how bands continue
to target works by and about LGBTQ people and communities
of color. His latest memoir, at Rhymes with Decay is
expected to provoke further important conversations about identity, oppression, and
(08:48):
resilience in the face of injustice. Ta Ka will share
his leadership with Honorary Youth Chair Iris Mogul, an anti
banning activist and college student. Together they'll call on on readers,
writers and librarians to resist efforts to keep marginalized stories
off shelves and to champion the transformative power of reading,
(09:09):
especially in challenging times. A mid century Manhattan co op
has become a trailblazer for energy efficiency, embracing a fully
electric future that's already paying off for its residents and
the climate. The thirteen story, one hundred and ten unit
building at four to twenty Beakman Hill, once powered by
(09:29):
gas fueled steam, has replaced its outdated system with state
of the art heat pumps, slashing utility bills and shrinking
its carbon footprint. The move enabled the building to meet
New York City's ambitious emissions targets twenty five years ahead
of schedule, setting a new sustainability standard under local Law
ninety seven. Residents, led by architect and board member Randy Gerder,
(09:54):
rally behind the vision to ditch fossil fuels, leveraging public
incentives and grants to make the three point eight million
dollar retrofit viable. They secured over one million dollars from
con Edison plus help from New York's energy programs, demonstrating
how strategic leadership and city support can empower older buildings
(10:15):
to modernize without financial hardship. Even during construction, daily life
went uninterrupted and residents maintained full access to heating and cooling,
proving such transitions can be painless and practical. The project's
technical success went beyond just swapping out equipment. Engineers designed
(10:35):
a system that not only provides individual climate comfort with
rooftop heat pumps, but also recycles excess heat in summer
to produce hot water more efficiently. A smart monitoring setup
insures reliability and fair use across the building, while community
engagement and transparent decision making built resident trust throughout the process. Today,
(10:58):
the building's utility caststs have dropped by forty percent, residents
are enjoying more comfortable homes, and the greenhouse gas emissions
have fallen by over seventy five percent, With most co
op apartments still below Midtown's median price. Beakman's Hill overhaul
stands as proof that bold, climate friendly upgrades can boost
(11:19):
value and affordability, while inspiring other New Yorkers to join
the clean energy movement. Up next, a listener suggested story
back in a minute, and now, a listener suggested story
from ingrid in Bozeman, Montana. A federal judge in Montana
(11:39):
has delivered a vital wind for wildlife conservation, striking down
a plan to expand livestock grazing in key grizzly bear
habitat just north of Yellowstone National Park. The court found
that the US Forest Service had failed to properly assess
the broad impacts on grizzly connectivity, as required by environmental
(12:01):
law and ordered officials to revisit the East Paradise grazing
proposal with a more rigorous analysis before authorizing any future expansion.
Conservation groups argued, and the judge agreed that putting more
cattle into core recovery areas would undermine recovery have threatened
grizzlies by increasing risks of deadly conflicts and fragmenting the
(12:23):
crucial pathways these bears need to move, mate, and thrive.
The court's decision noted that habitat connectivity is essential to
the long term viability of grizzlies in the lower forty
eight states. While the Forest Service correctly described the current
baseline for grizzly populations, it failed to weigh cumulative grazing
(12:45):
impacts and neglected to prepare a full environmental impact statement.
Both serious legal oversights advocates and wildlife attorneys welcome the ruling,
emphasizing that federal agencies must rely on the best available
science and prioritize er cutovery over short term commercial interests.
This case shines a spotline on the need for responsible
(13:06):
management of public lands where stewardship of endangered species must
take precedence. The Judges directives now protect important corridors for
genetic exchange between Yellowstone and Glacier area bears, a goal
scientists say is fundamental to restoring healthy populations. The Judges
(13:27):
directives now protect important corridors for genetic exchange between Yellowstone
National Park and Glacier National Park Area bears, a goal
scientists say is fundamental to restoring healthy populations. While Rancher
has expressed disappointment over lost grazing allotments, conservation voices insisted
that public lands are not just for profit, their home
(13:50):
to irreplaceable wildlife and natural heritage. With this precedent, the
Forest Service is required to reconsider its decision. Grisley recovery
a much needed boost and reaffirming the principle that America's
wild spaces must serve ecological and community needs first. Thank
(14:11):
you so much for that story, ingrid. If you have thoughts, ideas,
or more good news to share, we'd love to hear
from you. Call or message us at two zero two
six five six six' two seven to, one drop us
a line At beowulf at two Squared Media productions dot,
com or send it to us at Good news For
(14:31):
lefties On Facebook instagram Or Blue. Sky Rich, logis once
a DEVOTED maga supporter and, activist has turned his personal
transformation into a lifeline for others looking to escape the movement's.
Grip as the founder of the Nonprofit Leaving, Maga logis
helps Former trump backers who feel lost in conspiracy, theories
(14:55):
alienated from friends and, family and overwhelmed by a community
that often demands loyalty above all. Else logis's journey from
writing call scripts For trump campaigns and hosting a right
wing podcast to publicly denouncing his past support reflects a
deep reckoning with the lies and chaos he once. Embraced
(15:16):
he now dedicates himself to providing a supportive community and
practical guidance for those questioning mega, beliefs emphasizing empathy and
understanding instead of. Judgment Leaving maga has grown into a
bustling nonprofit offering resources and stories to help people heal
from the movement's divisiveness and regain connection with loved. Ones
(15:40):
logis describes the work as an unlikely accidental activism rooted
in making amends and fostering hope for a more democratic.
Future his work addresses the ISOLATION maga ideology, creates giving
people an exit ram to rediscover stability and. Truth through
his own experience in, Leadership logis shines a light on
(16:02):
the human side of political, division showing that LEAVING maga
isn't just a political, act but a journey toward personal
liberation and rebuilding community. Ties his growing network signals a
powerful movement of recovery and resilience away from political. Cultism
and that's a wrap for today's edition Of Good news For.
(16:23):
Lefties remember if these stories brighten your, outlook 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 Roosabelt heine And Aaron watson for
making all of this possible behind the. Scenes I'm, bowelfrocklin
(16:44):
weird name Good news For lefties And.
Speaker 2 (16:48):
America here's what you've been missing on The Stephanie Miller
Happy hour. PODCAST i think.
Speaker 3 (17:11):
It just harks back To trump's particular style of.
Speaker 4 (17:14):
Negotiating you, know one day it's Like zelenski's the worst
and we're going to take away all your weapons and your,
Equipment AND i mean it just shows a level of abject.
Desperation he really thinks he can play an X kgb
dictator by, saying, well Maybe ukraine will. Win BUT i
want to point one thing out in that little. Comment
(17:35):
he did not say The United. States he Said europe AND.
Nato and the way he's been talking is we'll, sell you,
know because he's out to make money personal we'll sell
equipment To.
Speaker 3 (17:48):
Europe but when he MEANS, nato he MEANS nato without The.
Speaker 4 (17:50):
United, states with minimal responsibility over. There and now it's
about Maybe i'll just go make my money off Of.
Ukraine and he really Thinks putin is you want to
come crawling to. Him expect a massive provocation to Make
trump look.
Speaker 3 (18:04):
Stupid thank, You.
Speaker 5 (18:06):
MALCOLM i was going to, say this is what's they always,
say it's whoever he talks to, last because he's such
a dunce because he talked To. Zelensky All putin has
to do is threaten him or or you, know suck
up to.
Speaker 3 (18:16):
Him And i'll, say one.
Speaker 5 (18:18):
Hundred and eighty degree the opposite the next, day won't.
HE i mean he's done this.
Speaker 4 (18:21):
Before, yeah, absolutely and so do all of his psycho.
Speaker 3 (18:24):
FANS i don't know who wrote that up for.
Speaker 4 (18:26):
Him my guess Is Marco rubio is the one who
wrote that up for.
Speaker 3 (18:31):
Him but those aren't his. WORDS i mean, one they're, coherent,
right not how we. Talk they offer a.
Speaker 4 (18:38):
Policy from beginning to, end so that's not his H,
so you, KNOW i don't think The United states is
going back to the side Of. ZELENSKY i think he's
going to the side of whoever can pay him and
his friend's.
Speaker 2 (18:52):
Money subscribe to The Stephanie Miller Happy our podcast On Apple,
Podcasts Stephanie miller dot com or where you get your favorite, podcasts.
Speaker 1 (19:06):
And in case you missed, it here's this good news.
Headline california has become the first state in the nation
to prohibit most law enforcement, officers including federal immigration, agents
from wearing masks or face coverings while carrying out official.
Duties Governor Gavin newsom signed the measure On, saturday declaring
(19:28):
that the state has a responsibility to ensure residents can
identify those wielding state and federal. Power the new law
comes in direct response to heavily criticized immigration raids In
Los angeles earlier this, year where federal agents and masks
conducted sweeping arrests that sparked community outrage and. Protests advocates
(19:50):
argued the practice created a fear and intimidation while Denying
californians a basic level of. Accountability civil rights groups pray
to move as a recognition that transparency in policing is
essential to building trust between officers and the communities they.
Serve during the, Raids Donald trump escalated tensions by Sending
(20:13):
National guard troops and marines into the, city an unprecedented
deployment that critics say militarize to civil enforcement. Action in,
Contrast california leaders pushed back with legislation meant to protect
immigrant communities and residents from secretive enforcement. Tactics by banning
(20:33):
face coverings for, Officers california has taken another step in
setting a national standard for civil rights and community. Trust
supporters say residents should always know who is policing their,
neighborhoods and the change reflects a vision of public safety
that is, open, accountable and respectful of democratic. Values
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Cardiac Cowboys
The heart was always off-limits to surgeons. Cutting into it spelled instant death for the patient. That is, until a ragtag group of doctors scattered across the Midwest and Texas decided to throw out the rule book. Working in makeshift laboratories and home garages, using medical devices made from scavenged machine parts and beer tubes, these men and women invented the field of open heart surgery. Odds are, someone you know is alive because of them. So why has history left them behind? Presented by Chris Pine, CARDIAC COWBOYS tells the gripping true story behind the birth of heart surgery, and the young, Greatest Generation doctors who made it happen. For years, they competed and feuded, racing to be the first, the best, and the most prolific. Some appeared on the cover of Time Magazine, operated on kings and advised presidents. Others ended up disgraced, penniless, and convicted of felonies. Together, they ignited a revolution in medicine, and changed the world.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.