Laura Flanders and Friends: Positive Independent Journalism for a Just World

Synopsis: Mahmoud Khalil examines why the question of Palestine is a test for U.S. democracy. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate Description: Mahmoud Khalil was coming home from an Iftar dinner with his pregnant wife on March 8, 2025 when he was detained without a warrant and transported 1,500 miles to a Louisiana detention camp. A negotiator for the 2024 pro-Palestine student protests at Columbia University, Khalil was a legal permanent resident who’d committed no violence or crime; his abduction shocked the world. The Trump administration was seeking to expel Khalil, not for his acts, but for his otherwise legal “beliefs, statements and associations” which Secretary of State Marco Rubio wrote in short letter, would “compromise a compelling US foreign policy interest.” A New Jersey federal judge threw out that case and Khalil was released after 104 days in detention, but the backlash keeps on coming. In this courageous conversation, Mahmoud Khalil joins Laura Flanders to discuss the night of his terrifying detainment, the “Palestinian Exception” and the case brought against him by the Trump administration. They are alleging errors on his green card application and have ordered Khalil to be deported — possibly to Algeria or Syria where his life would be under threat. Despite the risks of deportation, Mahmoud Khalil continues to speak out, and he and his legal team have filed a civil rights lawsuit with the U.S. District Court of New Jersey against the Trump administration to challenge his arrest and detention by ICE. Join Khalil and Flanders as they ask why the question of Palestine is a test for U.S. democracy — and one we are failing. “. . . [The Trump administration is] using Palestine. They are using the pretext of antisemitism and combating antisemitism to go after us because they know that this is the weakness of the Democratic party. When they go to the universities, they start with combating antisemitism, but then the second ask would be to abolish all DEI programs, to sanitize the history on slavery and the inception of America. And the list goes on and on and on.” - Mahmoud Khalil “People mistakenly think that what's happening is far from their doors. They think that this would never happen to them, because of their social status, because of their ethnicity or any of that. But what's happening around us should alarm us . . . It's not about that the U.S. is becoming authoritarian. It is authoritarianism now.” - Mahmoud Khalil Guest: Mahmoud Khalil, Human Rights Advocate UPDATE - since this interview was recorded- “The recent decision by a federal court in Massachusetts in the AAUP v. Rubio case confirms what Mahmoud has maintained all along: that Trump administration officials have acted in concert to suppress and silence anti-genocide, pro-Palestinian speech, in violation of the First Amendment. We look forward to the remedies that court will order and to pursuing Mahmoud’s own separate and ongoing federal court challenge to this unconstitutional policy.” -Ramzi Kassem, co-director of CLEAR, and one of the lawyers representing Mahmoud Khalil. Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. Watch the special report on YouTube; PBS World Channel September 21st, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio September 24th (check here to see if your station is airing the show) & available as a podcast. Full Episode Notes are located HERE. Music Credit: 'Thrum of Soil' by Bluedot Sessions, and original sound design by Jeannie Hopper RESOURCES: Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Behind the Barricades at Columbia University: “The...

Laura speaks to organizers in western North Carolina one year after Hurricane Helene This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate Description: When Hurricane Helene hit western North Carolina in September 2024, it came as a shock, hitting mountains, not coasts, and flooding rivers and communities with little experience of dealing with hurricanes. Helene quickly became one of the worst storms to ever hit the U.S., and in the absence of a quick response by state or federal government, other groups flooded in. Right-wing actors took advantage of the chaos, spreading rumors about looting and trying to boost their image. But it’s the mutual aid networks — some long standing, others new that responded with creative, effective strategies to distribute water, medicine and help communities rebuild. In this episode, Laura Flanders heads to some of the hardest-hit areas in western North Carolina and speaks with community activists to hear the lessons to be learned for the future. Amid Trump cuts to FEMA and the National Weather Service, the future for storm recovery in North Carolina is uncertain. But one thing's for sure — mutual aid support like Pansy Collective, Cherokee One Feather, Racial Justice Coalition (RJC), Rural Organizing and Resilience (ROAR) and Collaborativa La Milpa have the strategies and solutions we may all need for survival. “It takes the state a long time to mobilize, and that might continue to be true as FEMA gets defunded . . . It’s imperative that people fight to keep their disaster response funding, but until then, we need to know how to respond ourselves.” - RT “We were talking to the people that were staying in hotels because they had just lost everything and didn't know where they were going to get their next meal or their medicine. Talk to those people . . . We had those journalists, especially BIPOC journalists in Western North Carolina, making sure those stories were told.” - Brooklyn Brown (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians) Guests: • Brooklyn Brown (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians): Reporter, Cherokee One Feather •. RT Pansy • Ayotunde Dixson: Racial Justice Coalition (RJC) • Janet Kent: Rural Organizing and Resilience (ROAR) • Tai Little: SEAC Village • Alan Luis Ramirez: Collaborativa La Milpa • Mab Segrest: Anti Racist Research Program, Blueprint NC Watch the special report on YouTube; PBS World Channel, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio October 1st (check here to see if your station is airing the show) & available as a podcast. Full Episode Notes are located HERE. Support Laura Flanders and Friends by becoming a member at https://www.patreon.com/c/lauraflandersandfriends Music Credit: “Dawn Summit" and "Thrum of Soil" by Blue Dot Sessions. Original sound design by Jeannie Hopper. Special thanks: Davyne Dial, General Manager: WPVM FM 103.7 - Community Radio for Asheville Mab Segrest Blueprint NC Additional crew: DL Anderson, Jon Laww RESOURCES: Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Hurricane Helene 1 Year After, Survival Stories: Ayotunde Dixson, Tai Little: Listen: Exclusive Bonus Conversation • Community Action After Hurricane Helene: BIPOC Media Answers the Call: Watch / Listen: Episode and Full Uncut Conversation • Power Grids Under Attack: The Threat is Domestic Terrorism – Not Drag Artists: Watch / Listen: Episode • Collective Real Estate: Land Without Landlords?: Watch / Listen: Episode • A Co-op Story: People's Construction in Rockaway: Watch / Listen: Episode Related Articles and Resources: • Hurricane in the Mountains: What we can learn from Western North Carolina, A Blueprint NC Special Report, by May Segrest with Sofia Trovato, May 2025 • North Carolina government calculates Hurricane Helene damages, needs at least $53B, October 24, 2024, The AP • We Are The Relief: How Queer Appalachian...

Synopsis: As displacement pressures mount in the mountains 1 year after Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina, residents face gentrification head-on. Hear from local voices on the frontlines of a growing crisis in our exclusive conversation. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate Description: In this bonus conversation recorded live at radio station WPVM in Asheville, North Carolina, Laura speaks with two community organizers who were on the ground in Western North Carolina in the wake of Hurricane Helene. On the one-year anniversary of that deadly storm, they reflect on what it meant to face such an unprecedented disaster in the mountains — a place few imagined a hurricane could strike. From mutual aid networks to lessons in resilience, race, and class, they share how neighbors became first responders when government failed, and why mutual aid isn’t just a slogan but a lifeline. And what pressure are residents facing now, to combat gentrification in the wake of displacement? Released alongside our full, investigative report, Alone & Under Water: Learning from Hurricane Helene, this live conversation brings local voices and learned wisdom too listeners everywhere. Guests: • Ayotunde Dixson, Racial Justice Coalition (RJC) • Tai Little, SEAC Village Watch the special report on YouTube; PBS World Channel September 28th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio October 1st (check here to see if your station is airing the show) & available as a podcast. Full Episode Notes are located HERE. Support Laura Flanders and Friends by becoming a member at https://www.patreon.com/c/lauraflandersandfriends Music Credit: Original sound design by Jeannie Hopper Special thanks: Davyne Dial, General Manager: WPVM FM 103.7 - Community Radio for Asheville Mab Segrest Blueprint NC Additional crew: DL Anderson, Jon Laww RESOURCES: Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Community Action After Hurricane Helene: BIPOC Media Answers the Call: Watch / Listen: Episode and Full Uncut Conversation • Power Grids Under Attack: The Threat is Domestic Terrorism – Not Drag Artists: Watch / Listen: Episode • Collective Real Estate: Land Without Landlords?: Watch / Listen: Episode • A Co-op Story: People's Construction in Rockaway: Watch / Listen: Episode Related Articles and Resources: • Hurricane in the Mountains: What we can learn from Western North Carolina, A Blueprint NC Special Report, by May Segrest with Sofia Trovato, May 2025 • North Carolina government calculates Hurricane Helene damages, needs at least $53B, October 24, 2024, The AP • We Are The Relief: How Queer Appalachian Mutual Aid Showed Up After Helene, by Basil Vaughn Soper, October 22, 2024, Them.us • When the Hurricane-Relief Worker Turns Out To Be a Neo-Nazi, by Tawnell D. Hobbs, Jennifer Levitz and Joe Barrett, October 10, 2024, The Wall Street Journal • Hurricane Helene brews up storm of online falsehoods and threats, October 8, 2024, Institute for Strategic Dialogue • Extremists Co-Opt Hurricane Response to Blame Israel, Incite a Storm of Hateful Narratives, October 11, 2024, by Center on Extremism, ADL Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer; Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook:...

Synopsis: As concerns about rolled-back protections grow louder, whistleblowers at HUD have risked it all by going public with allegations that paint a stark picture of systematic regression on equality under the law. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate Description: Housing discrimination is illegal in the U.S., but every year, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) receives thousands of complaints from individuals who believe they are not being treated fairly because of their race, religion, disability and other protected classes. HUD is one of the only free resources available to Americans facing housing discrimination, but a shocking new whistleblower complaint letter released on Monday, September 29, 2025 says the agency is in crisis. Staff was slashed by 70% since Donald Trump took office, some civil rights cases have been abandoned, and political appointees are allegedly overriding legal findings to allow discrimination. These are just some of the claims in the formal complaint letter, which has now been filed through U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren’s office and taken to the press. In this conversation, Laura Flanders speaks to two of the four whistleblowers, HUD civil rights fair housing attorneys, to find out what this story means for civil rights and why they’re speaking out now. As fair housing hangs in the balance, Palmer Heenan and Paul Osadebe are organizing union members to uphold their oath to defend the constitution and protect Americans. Guests: • Palmer Heenan: Attorney, HUD Whistleblower; Member, AFGE 476 • Paul Osadebe: Attorney, HUD Whistleblower; Steward, AFGE 476 RESOURCES: Related Episodes: • Housing is a Human Right Watch / Listen • Frances Golden, “Rabble Rousers” & the NYC Housing Struggle that Won. Watch / Listen / Full, Uncut Conversation • Domestic Violence Survivor & Homeless Too? A CA Cohort Shows What Can Be Done. Watch/Listen / Full, Uncut Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren announces receipt of official complaint from HUD whistleblowers, ‘If you buy a home or rent a home or want to…’ YouTube •. Trump appointees roll back rollback enforcement of fair housing laws, by Debra Kamin, September 22, 2025, New York Times • Federal Workers Are Organizing for Democracy- from the Inside Out, by Chris Does and Alissa Tafti, June 25, 2025, NP Quarterly • Save Public Services • Exclusive: Federal Whistleblowers Expose How Trump’s HUD is Abandoning Vulnerable Americans, by Maximillian Alvarez, September 22, 2025, The Real News Network • Trump’s housing department rolls back work to combat residential segregation, whistleblowers allege, by Shcris Stein, September 24, 2025, The Guardian Full Episode Notes are located HERE. Support Laura Flanders and Friends by becoming a member at https://www.patreon.com/c/lauraflandersandfriends Music Credit: "Dusk & Glimmer" by Blue Dot Sessions. Original sound design by Jeannie Hopper Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer; Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lg Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriends Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriends ACCESSIBILITY - The...

Synopsis: With attacks on Critical Race Theory gaining momentum, Columbia & UCLA Law Professor Kimberlé Crenshaw joins Laura Flanders to dissect the fight for antiracism in America today. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate Description: Calling all white people: How many times in the last eight months have you heard the phrase “isn’t that illegal?” The problems with our legal system are more conspicuous than ever in 2025, but thought leaders like Kimberlé Crenshaw have been sounding the alarm for decades. Executive Director of the African American Policy Forum, Crenshaw is celebrating the organization's 30th anniversary and joining Laura Flanders in this episode to discuss the challenges ahead. For starters, the Supreme Court has recently legalized racial profiling for ICE deportations, the Trump administration is looking to remove so-called “improper ideology” from US institutions like the Smithsonian, and the president recently suggested domestic violence is not a real crime. Crenshaw is a leading scholar on Critical Race Theory, a Professor of Law at Columbia and UCLA Law Schools, and host of the podcast "Intersectionality Matters!" which is currently releasing a new episode of their series United States of Amnesia: The Real Histories of Critical Race Theory. Join Crenshaw and Flanders as they look at the AAPF’s role in advancing intersectional policies to address antiracism, and how they plan to continue that work in this critical moment. Plus, a commentary from Laura on rights and the Right. “To really stand behind this idea of making America great again, you've got to erase the memory of what America was . . . He's going after the history of enslavement. He's going after the history of genocide. He's saying that this kind of history is no longer appropriate for the federal government to officially recognize and historicize.” - Kimberlé Crenshaw “[Conservatives] believe race should not play a role in creating greater access to equality. They do believe race should play a role in deciding who should be surveilled. They do believe in race when it comes to who should be collected up, potentially put on buses and planes and sent out of this country.” - Kimberlé Crenshaw Guests: Kimberlé Crenshaw, Professor of Law, Columbia & UCLA Law Schools; Executive Director, African American Policy Forum Watch the special report on YouTube; PBS World Channel September 21st, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio September 24th (check here to see if your station is airing the show) & available as a podcast. Full Episode Notes are located HERE. Support Laura Flanders and Friends by becoming a member at https://www.patreon.com/c/lauraflandersandfriends Music Credit: “Courage Wolf” by Jordan McLean’s Musical Resistance or JMMR from his album 'Resistance is Fertile' released on Nublu Records, and original sound design by Jeannie Hopper Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Kimberlé Crenshaw & Soledad O’Brien Call Out the Media on Critical Race Theory: Watch / Listen: Episode, Uncut Conversation • Decades After Bloody Sunday, Is Trump Taking Civil Rights Back to Before Selma in ‘65?: Watch / Listen: Episode, Uncut Conversation • Juneteenth Special: To Confront Fascism, We Must Learn About Slavery and Colonialism: Watch Related Articles and Resources: • Under the Blacklight Live 2025 AAPF Event: Preemptive Alliances: Black Attorneys General On The Frontlines For Civil Rights. Watch • Intersectionality Matters! Podcast • US Supreme Court ‘effectively legalized racial profiling’, immigration experts warn, by Lauren Gambino, September 9, 2025, The Guardian • Supreme Court guts affirmative action, effectively ending race-conscious admissions, by Nina Totenberg, June 29, 2023, NPR • Trump Says Having ‘a Little Fight With the Wife’ Should Not Be a Crime, by Luke...

Synopsis: With attacks on Critical Race Theory gaining momentum, Columbia Law Professor Kimberlé Crenshaw joins Laura Flanders to dissect the fight for antiracism in America today. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate Description: Calling all white people: How many times in the last eight months have you heard the phrase “isn’t that illegal?” The problems with our legal system are more conspicuous than ever in 2025, but thought leaders like Kimberlé Crenshaw have been sounding the alarm for decades. Executive Director of the African American Policy Forum, Crenshaw is celebrating the organization's 30th anniversary and joining Laura Flanders in this episode to discuss the challenges ahead. For starters, the Supreme Court has recently legalized racial profiling for ICE deportations, the Trump administration is looking to remove so-called “improper ideology” from US institutions like the Smithsonian, and the president recently suggested domestic violence is not a real crime. Crenshaw is a leading scholar on Critical Race Theory, a Professor of Law at Columbia and UCLA Law Schools, and host of the podcast "Intersectionality Matters!" which is currently releasing a new episode of their series United States of Amnesia: The Real Histories of Critical Race Theory. Join Crenshaw and Flanders as they look at the AAPF’s role in advancing intersectional policies to address antiracism, and how they plan to continue that work in this critical moment. Plus, a commentary from Laura on rights and the Right. “To really stand behind this idea of making America great again, you've got to erase the memory of what America was . . . He's going after the history of enslavement. He's going after the history of genocide. He's saying that this kind of history is no longer appropriate for the federal government to officially recognize and historicize.” - Kimberlé Crenshaw “[Conservatives] believe race should not play a role in creating greater access to equality. They do believe race should play a role in deciding who should be surveilled. They do believe in race when it comes to who should be collected up, potentially put on buses and planes and sent out of this country.” - Kimberlé Crenshaw Guest: Kimberlé Crenshaw, Professor of Law, Columbia & UCLA Law Schools; Executive Director, African American Policy Forum Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. Watch the special report on YouTube; PBS World Channel September 21st, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio September 24th (check here to see if your station is airing the show) & available as a podcast. Full Episode Notes are located HERE. Support Laura Flanders and Friends by becoming a member at https://www.patreon.com/c/lauraflandersandfriends Music Credit: 'Dawn Smolders' by Bluedot Sessions, and original sound design by Jeannie Hopper RESOURCES: *Recommended book: • On Intersectionality - Selected Writings by Kimberlé Crenshaw, Get the book (*Bookshop is an online bookstore with a mission to financially support local, independent bookstores. The LF Show is an affiliate of bookshop.org and will receive a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.) Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Kimberlé Crenshaw & Soledad O’Brien Call Out the Media on Critical Race Theory: Watch / Listen: Episode, Uncut Conversation • Decades After Bloody Sunday, Is Trump Taking Civil Rights Back to Before Selma in ‘65?: Watch / Listen: Episode, Uncut Conversation • Juneteenth Special: To Confront Fascism, We Must Learn About Slavery and Colonialism: Watch Related Articles and Resources: • Under...

As the Federal Reserve convenes to discuss interest rates, revisit a timely podcast episode that dissects how central banks shape global development and whose interests they serve. Description: In the wake of the Feds meeting this week to decide whether to lower interest rates or not, we rewind to our episode “Storming the Federal Reserve” on the way central banks steer world development and for whom. Laura is joined by former Goldman Sachs manager Naomi Prins, and public ownership researcher Thomas Hanna. They believe that banking and development could look very different. This episode was originally released January 2019. “If you’re going to go the route of creating money to buy up all the subprime mortgages that were at risk at the crux of the crisis which effectively were more at risk because of how much they were manipulated by derivatives and other things throughout the financial system, you would have spent a fraction in a shorter period of time than what has been spent and continues to be spent on the subsidy to the financial system throughout the world.” Nomi Prins “Postal banking here in the United States has been popular amongst some senators to give the Post Office, which is a publicly owned enterprise, the ability to provide banking services which is common around the rest of the world.” Thomas Hanna Guests: • Nomi Prins - Former Director, Goldman Sachs and Author, Collusion: How Central Bankers Ruled the World • Thomas Hanna Research Director, The Democracy Collaborative and Author, Our Common Wealth: The Return of Public Ownership in the United States Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channel The Show is listener and viewer supported. That's thanks to you! Please donate and become a member. RESOURCES: Related Episodes: •. Revolution at the Federal Reserve - Watch the Episode • Commonomics / New Economy Episodes - Playlist • A Public Banking for Public Good - Watch • Money: The Great Corrupter - David Harvey - Watch *Recommended books: • “Collusion: How Central Bankers Ruled the World” by Nomi Prins, Get the Book • “Permanent Distortion: How the Financial Markets Abandoned the Real Economy Forever by Nomi Prins, Get the Book • “Our Common Wealth: The Return of Public Ownership in the United States” by Thomas M. Hanna, Get the book (*Bookshop is an online bookstore with a mission to financially support local, independent bookstores. The LF Show is an affiliate of bookshop.org and will receive a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.) Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer; Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O’Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lg Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriends Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriends ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Synopsis: As a bestselling author of 18 books, including "Aftershock" and "The System: Who Rigged It and How We Fix It", Robert Reich shares his insights on how to address growing income inequality and its impact on politics and economy. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate Description: The crisis we’re in was a long time coming. Now that we’re here, what do we do about it? Returning to the show, former Labor Secretary and longtime professor Robert Reich joins Laura Flanders to discuss two bullies tormenting U.S. democracy: concentrated wealth and corporate power. As Reich shares, growing income inequality yields corruption in our politics and economy. No one election will change everything, but that’s not a reason not to act, and act quickly to defeat the Trump administration — in Congress, and at the polls. Reich’s latest Substack, “Should Democrats Shut Down the Government?” presents some ideas. Reich's latest book is “Coming Up Short: A Memoir of My America”. He is also the subject of “The Last Class” about his final semester teaching at UC Berkeley's Goldman School. He's the author of eighteen books, including the bestsellers, “Aftershock” and “The System: Who Rigged It and How We Fix It,” and is co-founder of Inequality Media. Online, you can find Reich’s viral video explainers and his widely-read newsletter on Substack. Join Reich and Flanders as they unpack how economic and political power intersect in American life – and catch Laura’s two cents on “democratic capitalism.” “If the Republicans who now control Congress say, “‘We're not going to give you any role at all, and we are not even going to reassume our constitutional role as Congress,’ then I think the Democrats have no choice but to say, ‘Forget it. That's it. The only way we bring attention to this crisis is we stop and shut the whole place down.’” - Robert Reich “More than a century ago, we had the first Gilded Age in the United States . . . We had the equivalent of billionaires, the equivalent of Elon Musk . . . Why would we not have another Progressive Era as a response to the Gilded Age? We are now in the second Gilded Age.” - Robert Reich Guest: Robert Reich- Former Secretary of Labor; Professor Emeritus, University of California Berkeley; Author, Coming Up Short: My Memoir of America Watch the special report on YouTube; PBS World Channel September 14th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio September 17th (check here to see if your station is airing the show) & available as a podcast. Full Episode Notes are located HERE. -Related Podcast: Robert Reich Full Uncut Conversation Support Laura Flanders and Friends by becoming a member at https://www.patreon.com/c/lauraflandersandfriends Music Credit: 'Dawn Smolders' by Bluedot Sessions, and original sound design by Jeannie Hopper RESOURCES: Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Democracy & Capitalism: A Failed Experiment? Watch • The Pandemic Economy- Watch / Listen • Naomi Klein & Astra Taylor: Are We Entering “End Times Fascism”? Watch / Listen: Episode and Full Conversation • Masha Gessen & Jason Stanley: Is it Doomsday for U.S. Democracy? Watch / Listen: Episode and Full Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • Documentary: The Last Class with Robert Reich • “The Jobs Crash” by Robert Reich, Substack • Democrats Regain Advantage in Party Affiliation, by Jeffrey M. Jones, July 31, 2025, Gallup News • Bessent hails new ‘Trump accounts’ as ‘backdoor for privatizing Social Security, by Michael Stratford, July 30, 2025, Politico • Co-founded by Robert Reich: Inequality Media and Inequality Media Civic Action • Office Hours: Who is MOST responsible for this catastrophe, other than Trump? By Robert Reich, September 3, 2025, SubStack • Schumer: Democrats ‘will force votes’ on Trump tariffs after disappointing jobs...

Synopsis: Historical context for change- Reich draws parallels between the current era and the first Gilded Age, suggesting that a new Progressive Era could be on the horizon as a response to the second Gilded Age, bringing about potential reforms to economic and political systems. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate Description: The crisis we’re in was a long time coming. Now that we’re here, what do we do about it? Returning to the show, former Labor Secretary and longtime professor Robert Reich joins Laura Flanders to discuss two bullies tormenting U.S. democracy: concentrated wealth and corporate power. As Reich shares, growing income inequality yields corruption in our politics and economy. No one election will change everything, but that’s not a reason not to act, and act quickly to defeat the Trump administration — in Congress, and at the polls. Reich’s latest Substack, “Should Democrats Shut Down the Government?” presents some ideas. Reich's latest book is “Coming Up Short: A Memoir of My America”. He is also the subject of “The Last Class” about his final semester teaching at UC Berkeley's Goldman School. He's the author of eighteen books, including the bestsellers, “Aftershock” and “The System: Who Rigged It and How We Fix It,” and is co-founder of Inequality Media. Online, you can find Reich’s viral video explainers and his widely-read newsletter on Substack. Join Reich and Flanders as they unpack how economic and political power intersect in American life – and catch Laura’s two cents on “democratic capitalism.” “If the Republicans who now control Congress say, “‘We're not going to give you any role at all, and we are not even going to reassume our constitutional role as Congress,’ then I think the Democrats have no choice but to say, ‘Forget it. That's it. The only way we bring attention to this crisis is we stop and shut the whole place down.’” - Robert Reich “More than a century ago, we had the first Gilded Age in the United States . . . We had the equivalent of billionaires, the equivalent of Elon Musk . . . Why would we not have another Progressive Era as a response to the Gilded Age? We are now in the second Gilded Age.” - Robert Reich Guest: Robert Reich- Former Secretary of Labor; Professor Emeritus, University of California Berkeley; Author, Coming Up Short: My Memoir of America Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. Watch the special report on YouTube; PBS World Channel September 14th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio September 17th (check here to see if your station is airing the show) & available as a podcast. Full Episode Notes are located HERE. Support Laura Flanders and Friends by becoming a member at https://www.patreon.com/c/lauraflandersandfriends Music Credit: 'Dawn Smolders' by Bluedot Sessions, and original sound design by Jeannie Hopper RESOURCES: *Recommended book: “Coming Up Short: A Memoir of My America, by Robert Reich - *Get the Book (*Bookshop is an online bookstore with a mission to financially support local, independent bookstores. The LF Show is an affiliate of bookshop.org and will receive a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.) Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Democracy & Capitalism: A Failed Experiment? Watch • The Pandemic Economy- Watch / Listen • Naomi Klein & Astra Taylor: Are We Entering “End Times Fascism”? Watch / Listen: Episode and Full Conversation • Masha Gessen & Jason Stanley: Is it Doomsday for U.S. Democracy? Watch / Listen: Episode and Full Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • Documentary: The Last Class with...

Synopsis: From his early days as an illustrator for the Black Panther Party to winning the prestigious Mohn Award in 2023, artist Akinsanya Kambon has been using art to amplify marginalized voices and tell stories of resilience. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate Description: With each glimmering piece he creates, artist Akinsanya Kambon brings suppressed histories of both colonization and liberation to life. His ceramic works depict struggle and survival across the African diaspora, and stepping into his studio is a spiritual experience, as Laura Flanders recently discovered. Kambon was a member of the Sacramento chapter of the Black Panther Party where he worked on the layout and illustration of the party’s famous paper and became lieutenant for culture, illustrating among other things the party’s ten point plan and works for young people. In 2023, he won the prestigious Mohn Award — the top prize given by the Hammer Museum for his participation in their biennial “Made in LA” show, titled Acts of Living. His one-man show opened in Beverly Hills at Marc Selwyn Fine Art in April 2025. An exhibition of his work will open at the New York Sculpture Center in May 2026. In this unique conversation, Flanders asks Kambon about his own survival stories, including his polio diagnosis, getting drafted into the Vietnam War, and his year on death row. Kambon was arrested in connection with the killing of a police officer and was later acquitted from that high-profile Oak Park Four case. Join Flanders and Kambon as they discuss how art keeps spirits alive, and catch Flanders’ commentary on today’s fight to control our nation’s stories. “Art educates the masses of people. Not Black or white or Asian, this educates the masses of young people to our struggle, to how long they're struggling and how it's connected.” - Akinsanya Kambon “I thought of myself as an artist even when I was a child, because art was therapy for me . . . I used to always seem like I would always take the side of the underdog.” - Akinsanya Kambon Guest: Akinsanya Kambon, Artist, Former Marine, Black Panther & Art Professor Additional Credits: Additional Crew: Marco Amador, Producciones Cimarrón Clips from the documentary short- "Akinsanya Kambon The Hero Avenges," Produced by The Hammer Museum; Directed by Gabriel Noguez and Sean Rowry. Special thanks: Cynthia Wornham, Annie Philbin, Marc Selwyn Fine Art Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. Watch the special report on YouTube; PBS World Channel September 5th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio September 10th (check here to see if your station is airing the show) & available as a podcast. Full Episode Notes are located HERE. -Related Podcast: Uncut Conversation with Akinsanya Kambon, Artist, Former Marine, Black Panther & Art Professor RESOURCES: Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Jacqueline Woodson & Catherine Gund: Breathing Through Chaos & the “Meanwhile”, Watch / Listen: Episode Cut - Full Uncut Conversation • Genesis Be & Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis: Building Collective Freedom with a Poet & Preacher, Watch / Listen: Episode Cut • Ai Weiwei: How Do We Save Our Humanity? Watch / Listen: Episode Cut - Full Uncut Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • Akinsanya Kambon exhibit for ‘Made in L.A. 2023: Acts of Living’ the Hammer Museum’s biennial exhibition highlighting the practices of artists working throughout the greater Los Angeles area • Akinsanya Kambon Receives $100,000 John Award, Made in L.A. Biennial’s Top Prize Honors Artistic Excellence, by Victoria L. Walntine, December 12, 2023,...

Synopsis: Step into the studio of ceramicist Akinsanya Kambon, where ancient traditions meet revolutionary fervor: here, stunning works born from earthy materials recount tales of resistance, redemption, and hope across generations and geography. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate Description: With each glimmering piece he creates, artist Akinsanya Kambon brings suppressed histories of both colonization and liberation to life. His ceramic works depict struggle and survival across the African diaspora, and stepping into his studio is a spiritual experience, as Laura Flanders recently discovered. Kambon was a member of the Sacramento chapter of the Black Panther Party where he worked on the layout and illustration of the party’s famous paper and became lieutenant for culture, illustrating among other things the party’s ten point plan and works for young people. In 2023, he won the prestigious Mohn Award — the top prize given by the Hammer Museum for his participation in their biennial “Made in LA” show, titled Acts of Living. His one-man show opened in Beverly Hills at Marc Selwyn Fine Art in April 2025. An exhibition of his work will open at the New York Sculpture Center in May 2026. In this unique conversation, Flanders asks Kambon about his own survival stories, including his polio diagnosis, getting drafted into the Vietnam War, and his year on death row. Kambon was arrested in connection with the killing of a police officer and was later acquitted from that high-profile Oak Park Four case. Join Flanders and Kambon as they discuss how art keeps spirits alive, and catch Flanders’ commentary on today’s fight to control our nation’s stories. “Art educates the masses of people. Not Black or white or Asian, this educates the masses of young people to our struggle, to how long they're struggling and how it's connected.” - Akinsanya Kambon “I thought of myself as an artist even when I was a child, because art was therapy for me . . . I used to always seem like I would always take the side of the underdog.” - Akinsanya Kambon Guest: Akinsanya Kambon, Artist, Former Marine, Black Panther & Art Professor Special thanks: Cynthia Wornham, Annie Philbin, Marc Selwyn Fine Art Additional Credits: Additional Crew: Marco Amador, Producciones Cimarrón Clips from the documentary short- "Akinsanya Kambon The Hero Avenges," Produced by The Hammer Museum; Directed by Gabriel Noguez and Sean Rowry. Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. Watch the special report on YouTube; PBS World Channel September 5th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio September 10th (check here to see if your station is airing the show) & available as a podcast. Full Episode Notes are located HERE. RESOURCES: Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Jacqueline Woodson & Catherine Gund: Breathing Through Chaos & the “Meanwhile”, Watch / Listen: Episode Cut - Full Uncut Conversation • Genesis Be & Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis: Building Collective Freedom with a Poet & Preacher, Watch / Listen: Episode Cut • Ai Weiwei: How Do We Save Our Humanity? Watch / Listen: Episode Cut - Full Uncut Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • Akinsanya Kambon exhibit for ‘Made in L.A. 2023: Acts of Living’ the Hammer Museum’s biennial exhibition highlighting the practices of artists working throughout the greater Los Angeles area • Akinsanya Kambon Receives $100,000 John Award, Made in L.A. Biennial’s Top Prize Honors Artistic Excellence, by Victoria L. Walntine, December 12, 2023, Culture Type • Akinsanya Kambon’s exhibition April 17-May31, 2025 at Marc Selwyn Fine Art •. 10...

Synopsis: Uncovering the Hidden Stories of Disaster Recovery Workers: Discover the true stories of immigrant workers rebuilding America after hurricanes, floods, fires, and other disasters, and learn about initiatives like Resilience Force working towards a million-strong, skilled workforce with fair labor practices. Description [Rewind Full Uncut Conversation Originally released February 2023]: “THE GREAT ESCAPE: A True Story of Forced Labor and Immigrant Dreams in America” tells the story of one of the largest human trafficking schemes in modern American history and how the traffickers were finally held to account. Saket Soni was the co-founder of The New Orleans Workers Center for Racial Justice in the post-Katrina years. Today he’s the founder and director of Resilience Force, a project that comes directly out of his experience working with the men in this book. The U.S. is experiencing a labor shortage, and climate catastrophe will increase the need for disaster recovery workers. How can we build the resilient workforce we need, with the rights and equity workers deserve? Join Laura and Saket for this urgent conversation on the future of labor. Guest: Saket Soni: Author, THE GREAT ESCAPE: A True Story of Forced Labor and Immigrant Dreams in America; Founder & Director, Resilience Force Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channel RESOURCES: The Show is listener and viewer supported. That's thanks to you! Please donate and become a member. Full conversation & show notes are available at Patreon.com/theLFShow *Recommended book: “The Great Escape: A True Story of Forced Labor and Immigrant Dreams in America” by Saket Soni, Get the Book Here (*Bookshop is an online bookstore with a mission to financially support local, independent bookstores. The LF Show is an affiliate of bookshop.org and will receive a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.) Related Laura Flanders Shows: Watch / Download PodcastWatch / Download PodcastWatch / Download PodcastWatch Related Articles and Resources: • Populations around the world are declining. Migration is the solution, says economist, by Kai McNamee, Matt Ozug & Ari Shaprio for All Things Considered, NPR Listen / Read • Supply Chain Disruptions, Trade Costs, and Labor Markets, by Andrés Rodriquez-Clare, Mauricio Ulate, and Jose P. Vasquez; Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco. Read Here • $20million settlement agreement reached in labor trafficking cases coordinated by SPLC on behalf of exploited Indian guest workers, by Southern Poverty Law Center, Read Here • Close to Slavery: Guestowrker Programs in the United State, Report by Southern Poverty Law Center, Read Here Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lg Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriends Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriends ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Renowned actor, writer and director Liev Schreiber recently released “Meeting Zelenskyy”, a feature documentary in which he sits down with Ukraine’s embattled leader. In an extended conversation, Schreiber speaks actor-to-actor about Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s rise from entertainer to war time leader. In this exclusive interview with Laura Flanders, Schreiber discusses how the documentary came to be, how he personally became involved, and how technology could shape the outcome of the Russia-Ukraine war. The film includes never-before-seen footage from Zelenskyy’s childhood and career. Join us for this historic conversation, plus a commentary from Laura. “I've always felt optimistic about this because [Ukraine is] on the side of truth. That's the kind of thing you can cover briefly, but it always comes out, it always surfaces. It's also the kind of thing that builds morale. It builds courage. It builds principle. They have that on their side, where the Russian military is struggling.” - Liev Schreiber “This was never about Ukraine for me. This was always about American values and democracy and what it is, where it comes from and what it means. I don't think those values and those principles are on display anywhere more clearly than in Ukraine.” - Liev Schreiber“I've always felt optimistic about this because [Ukraine is] on the side of truth. That's the kind of thing you can cover briefly, but it always comes out, it always surfaces. It's also the kind of thing that builds morale. It builds courage. It builds principle. They have that on their side, where the Russian military is struggling.” - Liev Schreiber Guest: Liev Schreiber: Award-Winning Actor, Director & Writer; Co-Founder, BlueCheck Ukraine This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate Watch the special report released on YouTube; PBS World Channel August 29th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio (check here to see if your station airs the show) & available as a podcast. Full Episode Notes are located HERE. -RESOURCES- Related extended commentary from Laura is available to podcast subscribers Full Uncut Conversation Released to Podcast Subscribers: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Winning War, Building Peace: Activists from Ukraine, Russia & The US Debate: Watch / Listen: Episode and/or Full Conversation • Masha Gessen & Jason Stanley: Is it Doomsday for U.S. Democracy?: Watch / Listen: Episode and/or Full Conversation • Ai Weiwei: How Do We Save Our Humanity?: Watch / Listen: Episode and/or Full Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • Pledge Ukraine, Starenki is a charitable organization devoted to issues of elderly people in Ukraine. • In maps: The war-ravaged Ukrainian territories at the heart of the Trump-Putin summit, by Paul Adams, August 16, 2025, BBC • Ukraine war briefing: Zelenskyy entices Trump with $90bn arms buy in return for security, by Warren Murray with Guardian writers and agencies, August 18, 2025, The Guardian • Trump Won’t Deliver Peace to Ukraine - or Anywhere Else, by Feet Here, August 18, 2025, The Nation • Will Russia-Ukraine War End with Diplomacy or on Battlefield? John Mearsheimer vs. Denys Pilash, August 19, 2025, Democracy Now • Is Peace Possible? Nation Publisher Katrina vandal Hovel on Trump Summits with Putin, Zelenskyy, Democracy Now Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram:...

Synopsis: From childhood memories to the frontlines of war, Liev Schreiber's film "Meeting Zelenskyy" presents a nuanced portrait of Ukraine's embattled leader, with Schreiber drawing parallels between Ukrainian resilience and American values of democracy and freedom. Description: Renowned actor, writer and director Liev Schreiber recently released “Meeting Zelenskyy”, a feature documentary in which he sits down with Ukraine’s embattled leader. In an extended conversation, Schreiber speaks actor-to-actor about Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s rise from entertainer to war time leader. In this exclusive interview with Laura Flanders, Schreiber discusses how the documentary came to be, how he personally became involved, and how technology could shape the outcome of the Russia-Ukraine war. The film includes never-before-seen footage from Zelenskyy’s childhood and career. Join us for this historic conversation, plus a commentary from Laura. “I've always felt optimistic about this because [Ukraine is] on the side of truth. That's the kind of thing you can cover briefly, but it always comes out, it always surfaces. It's also the kind of thing that builds morale. It builds courage. It builds principle. They have that on their side, where the Russian military is struggling.” - Liev Schreiber Guest: Liev Schreiber: Award-Winning Actor, Director & Writer; Co-Founder, BlueCheck Ukraine This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. Watch the special report on YouTube; PBS World Channel August 29th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio (check here to see if your station airs the show) & available as a podcast. Full Episode Notes are located HERE. RESOURCES- Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Winning War, Building Peace: Activists from Ukraine, Russia & The US Debate: Watch / Listen: Episode and/or Full Conversation • Masha Gessen & Jason Stanley: Is it Doomsday for U.S. Democracy?: Watch / Listen: Episode and/or Full Conversation • Ai Weiwei: How Do We Save Our Humanity?: Watch / Listen: Episode and/or Full Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • In maps: The war-ravaged Ukrainian territories at the heart of the Trump-Putin summit, by Paul Adams, August 16, 2025, BBC • Ukraine war briefing: Zelenskyy entices Trump with $90bn arms buy in return for security, by Warren Murray with Guardian writers and agencies, August 18, 2025, The Guardian • Trump Won’t Deliver Peace to Ukraine - or Anywhere Else, by Feet Here, August 18, 2025, The Nation • Will Russia-Ukraine War End with Diplomacy or on Battlefield? John Mearsheimer vs. Denys Pilash, August 19, 2025, Democracy Now • Is Peace Possible? Nation Publisher Katrina vandal Hovel on Trump Summits with Putin, Zelenskyy, August 19, 2025, Democracy Now • Pledge Ukraine, Starenki is a charitable organization devoted to issues of elderly people in Ukraine. Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lg Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriends Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriends ACCESSIBILITY - The...

Synopsis- A Call to Action: Veterans, Citizens, and Leaders Unite: Hear from veterans like Terrance Deuel, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and UAW President Shawn Fain on why they're fighting for democracy and what you can do to get involved in your local community. Description: Can the Democratic party reinvent itself? In this exclusive one-on-one interview with Bernie Sanders, recorded during the Senator’s “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, he sits down with Laura Flanders in Las Vegas to discuss what he hopes people will take away from his rallies, and how we can all push back against oligarchy. Sanders’ message is especially resonating with Americans in this moment, as record-breaking crowds turn out for his tour — with many first-time activists in the audience. What is driving this phenomenon? Laura Flanders & Friends hit the road to find out, and traveled from Kenosha to Warren and Las Vegas. Along the tour, Flanders spoke with veterans, retirees and many concerned citizens. She also caught speeches from Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain, and sat in on a town hall meeting with Nevada Congresswoman Dina Titus. Will 2025 turn out to be the year that Americans remake democracy? “I did 28 years in the army. I maintained an apolitical front at all times . . . I think we're sliding into tyranny, and I took an oath to support and defend the constitution and I'm going to do that whether in or out of uniform.” - Terrance Deuel “We are at a point where the wealthiest people in the world, like Elon Musk and all the Republicans enabling him, are turning to loot what is left of Medicaid, Medicare, and social security to bankroll even deeper tax cuts and sweetheart contracts for themselves, their fellow billionaires and their corporations. And our political system right now is ill prepared for this abuse of power.” - Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez “I think the message of the moment is to understand that the vast majority of the American people do not think that we give tax breaks to the rich and cut social security or veterans programs. They don't. And our job is to work as hard as we can. Part of what this tour is about is to get them involved in their own local communities.” - Bernie Sanders Guests: • Jacqueline Davania-Williamson: Resident, Las Vegas, Nevada • Terrence Deuel: Veteran, U.S. Army • Thomas Dyer & Pam West: Retirees • Dr. Abdul El-Sayed: Health Director, Wayne County, Michigan • Shawn Fain: President, United Auto Workers (UAW) • Danielle & Jordan Lovik: Residents, Salt Lake City, Utah • Sandra & Raymond Martinez: Applicant & Social Security Recipient • Donavan McKinney: U.S. Representative (MI-11) • Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez: U.S. Representative (NY-14) • Bernie Sanders: U.S. Senator (VT); Fighting Oligarchy Tour • Dina Titus: U.S. Representative (NV-1) Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music Credit: “Live For You" by Thee Sacred Souls from their album Got a Story to Tell courtesy of Daptone Records.. "Steppin", "All The Ways" & "Electric Car" by Podington Bear. And original sound production and design by Jeannie Hopper. This show is made possible thanks our members! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! RESOURCES: *Recommended book: “It's OK to Be Angry About Capitalism” by Bernie Sanders, *Get the Book (*Bookshop is an online bookstore with a mission to financially support local, independent bookstores. The LF Show is an affiliate of bookshop.org and will receive a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.) Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • The People v. DOGE: Jamie Raskin’s Strategy to Combat the Musk & Trump Power Grab: Watch / Download the Podcast: Episode and Full Conversation • AOC & Noam Chomsky: The Way Forward: Watch / Download...

**Illinois' cash bail reform**: The state ended cash bail in 2023 with the Pretrial Fairness Act, a move that aims to address the disproportionately negative impact on Black and Brown communities and favoritism towards the wealthy. Explore the history and impact of Illinois' decision to end cash bail statewide in 2023, featuring insights from key advocates and policymakers involved in this monumental change. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: What happened when Illinois ended cash bail? As Laura’s guests explain, this deeply discriminatory and unjust system puts “a ransom on people’s heads,” disproportionately impacts Black and Brown people, and favors the wealthy who can buy their freedom while leaving the poor to languish in jail. Bail reform has faced tremendous pushback over the years, but Illinois implemented the first-of-its-kind Pretrial Fairness Act, ending cash bail statewide in 2023. The historic win didn’t happen overnight. In this episode some of those most involved explain what it took and describe the surprising results. Sharone R. Mitchell Jr., the Cook County Chief Public Defender was the lead policy expert for the Coalition to End Money Bond. Mitchell also heads the state’s largest public defender office. State Senator Robert Peters represents Illinois’ 13th District and was one of the main sponsors of the Pretrial Fairness Act. He chairs the Senate Labor Committee. Bryce Covert followed this important and under-covered story for The Nation magazine. What has Illinois to teach the nation? All that plus Laura’s commentary: Illinois has moved out of the Middle Ages. What’s holding the rest of the nation back? Guests: • Bryce Covert: Contributor, The Nation • Sharone R. Mitchell Jr.: Chief Public Defender Cook County, Illinois • Robert Peters: Illinois State Senator, 13th District Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channel Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Corporate Prison Reform Will Not Keep Us Safe: A Report from Los Angeles: Watch / Listen: Podcast Episode • Crime & Migration: An Abolitionist Plan for Immigration Justice: Watch / Listen: Podcast Episode • D.A. Larry Krasner Facing Impeachment: Criminal Justice Reform in the Crosshairs: Watch / Listen: Podcast Episode Related Articles and Resources: • The Bail Project Responds to Trump’s Executive Order to End Cashless Bail, by Devon McMahon, August 25, 2025, The Bail Project • Illinois Has Put an End to the Injustice of Cash Bail, by Bryce Covert, December 2, 2024, The Nation • U.S. Commission on Civil Rights Releases Report: The Civil Rights Implications of Cash Bail, by U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, January 20, 2022, USCCR.org • Trump Targets Bail Reform, Wants to Let Rich “Buy Their Way Out of Jail”, August 26, 2025, Democracy Now! • Trump signs executive order to eliminate cashless bail in Washington, by Kira Lerner, August 25, 2025, The Guardian • Cash bail changes - 2023 - SAFE-T Act, July 2023, Illinois Legal Aid Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lg Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriends Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriends ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

On the Road with Laura Flanders: Join Us as We Dive into Sanders' Vision for America's Political Future and Meet the Citizens Sparking Change at Rallies Coast to Coast. Can the Democratic party reinvent itself? In this exclusive one-on-one interview with Bernie Sanders, recorded during the Senator’s “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, he sits down with Laura Flanders in Las Vegas to discuss what he hopes people will take away from his rallies, and how we can all push back against oligarchy. Sanders’ message is especially resonating with Americans in this moment, as record-breaking crowds turn out for his tour — with many first-time activists in the audience. What is driving this phenomenon? Laura Flanders & Friends hit the road to find out, and traveled from Kenosha to Warren and Las Vegas. In the broadcast edition (released on YouTube April 4th 5pm ET; PBS stations April 6th, and community radio & podcast April 9th) hear interviews from the road and speeches from Senator Sanders, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain, and more. GUEST: Bernie Sanders: U.S. Senator (VT); Fighting Oligarchy Tour Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. Become a supporting member at https://LauraFlanders.org/Donate RESOURCES: Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Full Episode Notes are located HERE. *Recommended book: “It's OK to Be Angry About Capitalism” by Bernie Sanders, *Get the Book (*Bookshop is an online bookstore with a mission to financially support local, independent bookstores. The LF Show is an affiliate of bookshop.org and will receive a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.) Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • The People v. DOGE: Jamie Raskin’s Strategy to Combat the Musk & Trump Power Grab: Watch / Download the Podcast: Episode and Full Conversation • AOC & Noam Chomsky: The Way Forward: Watch / Download the Podcast: Episode and Full Conversation • Barbara Lee & Lateefah Simon: The Trailblazing Congresswomen of CA’s 12th District: Watch / Download the Podcast: Episode and Full Conversation Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lg Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriends Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriends ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Synopsis: Is Authoritarianism Here?: Gessen and Stanley discuss the shift in America's self-understanding, from democratic ideals to a self-identity based on loving the US for its past greatness, and warn that this is not a democratic project, but rather a fascist one, similar to what Putin is doing in Russia. Stay informed and engaged! Please hit the podcast subscribe button if you've yet to subscribe. Description: What will it take to reject fascism, before it’s too late? Masha Gessen and Jason Stanley are two leading experts on autocracy, and they’re sounding the alarm. They and their families have escaped totalitarian regimes and oppressive governments; today Gessen and Stanley are pulling back the curtain on the attacks against DEI, trans bodies, civil rights, higher education and more. Is authoritarianism here? Masha Gessen is an acclaimed Russian-American journalist, a Polk Award winning opinion writer for the New York Times and the author of "Surviving Autocracy" and “The Future is History: How Totalitarianism Reclaimed Russia.” Forced to leave Russia twice, in 2024, a Moscow court convicted them, in absentia to eight years in prison for their reporting on the war in Ukraine. Jason Stanley is a best-selling author and professor whose books include “Erasing History” and "How Fascism Works". He recently left his teaching position at Yale University to relocate to Canada with his family; noting that he is a child of Jewish refugees who fled Nazi Germany. In this historic conversation — the first interview between Gessen and Stanley — the two explore how to be bold in our movements and envision a multi-ethnic democracy. Plus, a commentary from Laura. “Trump has proposed a revived empire, a return to an imaginary past. The Democrats have proposed the way things are now, which are deeply unsatisfying and horribly anxiety provoking for a very large number of people. So we need a vision of a future that is more appealing than the imaginary past.” - Masha Gessen “What I see now is this regime shifting the self understanding of America, from having these democratic ideals . . . God knows they've been imperfect, to a self identity as loving the United States because we've had these great men in our past, and we've conquered the West, and we can punch you in the nose. And that's not a democratic project. That's like what Putin is doing in Russia.” - Jason Stanley • Masha Gessen: Opinion Columnist, The New York Times; Author, Surviving Autocracy; Distinguished Professor, Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism, CUNY • Jason Stanley: Author, Erasing History & How Fascism Works; Professor, Munk School of Global Affairs, University of Toronto Music Credit: “America” by Sylvan Paul, courtesy of Wolf+Lamb Records. "Steppin" by Podington Bear. And original sound production and design by Jeannie Hopper. RESOURCES: Watch the special report released on YouTube; PBS World Channel August 17th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio (check here to see if your station airs the show) & available as a podcast. The full uncut conversation is available as a podcast in this podcast feed. RESOURCES: Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Full Episode Notes are located HERE. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: •. Special Report- Decades After Bloody Sunday, Is Trump Taking Civil Rights Back to Before Selma in ‘65?: Watch, Audio Podcast: Episode, and Uncut Conversation with Kimberlé Crenshaw, AAPF and Clifford Albright, Black Voters Matter •. Journalists Maria Hinojosa & Chenjerai Kumanyika: Forced Removals, Foreign Detention, the War on Education & Free Speech: Watch, Audio Podcast: Episode, and Uncut Conversation • The People v. DOGE: Jamie Raskin’s Strategy to Combat the Musk & Trump Power Grab: Watch, Audio Podcast: Episode, and Uncut...

Sound the Alarm on Rising Fascism: Masha Gessen and Jason Stanley, leading experts on authoritarianism, warn of attacks on DEI, trans bodies, civil rights, and higher education, and discuss the need for a bold vision of a multi-ethnic democracy. ARE YOU AUDACIOUS? SUPPORT OUR RESISTANCE REPORTING FUND! Help us continue fighting against the rise of authoritarianism in these times. Please support our Resistance Reporting Fund. Our goal is to raise $100K. We're at $35K! Become a sustaining member starting at $5 a month! Or make a one time donation at LauraFlanders.org/Donate Description: What will it take to reject fascism, before it’s too late? Masha Gessen and Jason Stanley are two leading experts on autocracy, and they’re sounding the alarm. They and their families have escaped totalitarian regimes and oppressive governments; today Gessen and Stanley are pulling back the curtain on the attacks against DEI, trans bodies, civil rights, higher education and more. Is authoritarianism here? Masha Gessen is an acclaimed Russian-American journalist, a Polk Award winning opinion writer for the New York Times and the author of "Surviving Autocracy" and “The Future is History: How Totalitarianism Reclaimed Russia.” Forced to leave Russia twice, in 2024, a Moscow court convicted them, in absentia to eight years in prison for their reporting on the war in Ukraine. Jason Stanley is a best-selling author and professor whose books include “Erasing History” and "How Fascism Works". He recently left his teaching position at Yale University to relocate to Canada with his family; noting that he is a child of Jewish refugees who fled Nazi Germany. In this historic conversation — the first interview between Gessen and Stanley — the two explore how to be bold in our movements and envision a multi-ethnic democracy. Plus, a commentary from Laura. “What I see now is this regime shifting the self understanding of America, from having these democratic ideals . . . God knows they've been imperfect, to a self identity as loving the United States because we've had these great men in our past, and we've conquered the West, and we can punch you in the nose. And that's not a democratic project. That's like what Putin is doing in Russia.” - Jason Stanley Guests: • Masha Gessen: Opinion Columnist, The New York Times; Author, Surviving Autocracy; Distinguished Professor, Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism, CUNY • Jason Stanley: Author, Erasing History & How Fascism Works; Professor, Munk School of Global Affairs, University of Toronto Watch the special report released on YouTube; PBS World Channel August 15th, and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio (check here to see if your station airs the show) & available as a podcast. Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. RESOURCES: Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Full Episode Notes are located HERE. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: •. Special Report- Decades After Bloody Sunday, Is Trump Taking Civil Rights Back to Before Selma in ‘65?: Watch, Audio Podcast: Episode, and Uncut Conversation with Kimberlé Crenshaw, AAPF and Clifford Albright, Black Voters Matter •. Journalists Maria Hinojosa & Chenjerai Kumanyika: Forced Removals, Foreign Detention, the War on Education & Free Speech: Watch, Audio Podcast: Episode, and Uncut Conversation • The People v. DOGE: Jamie Raskin’s Strategy to Combat the Musk & Trump Power Grab: Watch, Audio Podcast: Episode, and Uncut Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • This Is What a Digital Coup Looks Like, by Carole Callwalladr, Ted Talk,...

From "Bloody Sunday" to Modern Activism: Civil Rights Leaders Reflect on Legacy This show is made possible thanks our members! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: 60 years ago in Selma, Alabama, state troopers beat peaceful protesters bloody on the Edmund Pettus Bridge as they marched for civil rights. The horror of “Bloody Sunday” and the resilience of the Civil Rights Movement ultimately led to the passage of the 1965 Voting Rights Act and many of the landmark achievements that are now directly under attack. As civil rights activists look to history to understand — and prepare for — the present, Laura walks the Bridge and talks with, among others, Sheyann Webb Christburg, who marched at the age of eight, Black Voters Matter co-founders LaTosha Brown and Clifford Albright; law professor and author Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw and Maya Wiley, President and CEO of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights. What does people power look like today? Plus, a commentary from Laura on name calling then and now. “We're not going to phone bank our way out of this. We're not going to text our way out of this. And in truth, we're not even going to vote our way out of this . . . It's going to take revisiting some of the same strategies that we saw here in Selma, in terms of nonviolent civil disobedience and direct action.” - Clifford Albright “When we see and hear and think about fascism, we think about anti-democratic movements in Europe. We think about the Holocaust . . . But for Black people, as Langston Hughes said, you don't have to explain to us what fascism is. We experienced it. That is what we were fighting, for the 60, 70 years after Reconstruction was overthrown.” - Kimberlé Crenshaw Guests: • Clifford Albright: Co-Founder & Executive Director, Black Voters Matter • Willard and Kiba Armstead: Veteran & Spouse • Trayvon Bossa: Sigma Chapter Member, Miles College Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity • LaTosha Brown: Co-Founder, Black Voters Matter • Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw: Co-Founder & Executive Director, African American Policy Forum; Host of the Intersectionality Matters! Podcast • Noelle Damico: Director of Social Justice, The Workers Circle • Melinda Hicks: Military Family • Jaribu Hill: Executive Director & Founder, Mississippi Workers’ Center for Human Rights • Myla Person: Jack and Jill Club, Columbus, Georgia • Ann Toback: CEO, The Workers Circle • Sheyann Webb-Christburg: Youngest Participant,1965 Bloody Sunday March • Maya Wiley: President & CEO, Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music Credit: "Tremole" "Jagged" "Thrum of Soil" & "Dawn Summit" by Blue Dot Sessions from the album Empty Outpost. "Steppin" by Podington Bear. And original sound production and design by Jeannie Hopper. Podcast Endorsement: Intersectionality Matters! Podcast Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Rep. John Lewis on Making Justice from Selma to the Present, Watch • Kimberlé Crenshaw & Soledad O’Brien Call Out the Media on Critical Race Theory, Watch / Listen / Download Podcast • Reporting on Policing at the Polls & BIPOC Voter Suppression in 2024, Watch / Listen/Download Podcast: Full Uncut Conversation and Episode • Deciding the Fate of Democracy in North Carolina, Watch / Download Podcast • The Georgia Way: Strategies that Work for Winning Elections, Watch / Listen/Download Podcast: Full Uncut Conversation and Episode Related Articles and Resources: • Anniversary of ‘Bloody Sunday’ Marks Continued Fight for Voting Rights, by Temi Adeoye, March 24, 2025, ACLU • U.S. Civil Rights Trail, Learn More • United State of Amnesia, The Real History of Critical Race Theory, Hosted by Kimberlé Crenshaw Podcast Mini Series • Documentary Trailer: “Love, Joy, and Power:...