

Good News For Lefties (and America!) - Daily News for Democracy
Beowulf Rochlen - A democracy advocate, daily news content creator, positive progressive, proponent of democratic principles, and all around lefty.
Positive, daily news for progressives and democracy! Democrats, Leftists, liberals, and democratic socialists welcome. A respite from troubling headlines in difficult times. Sure, read the bad news, but then listen to us! Send good news tips to beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com or 202-656-6271Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 14, 2025 • 19min
Blue States Sue Over School Funds, Penguins Fight Tariffs & Utah Workers Rebel – Good News For Democracy!
Strap in, progressives! Good News For Lefties is back with your weekly dose of resistance, resilience, and righteous wins. Host Beowulf Rochlen (weird name, great politics) serves up today’s juiciest lefty victories. In this episode: 16 states + D.C. sue Trump for yanking pandemic school funds (because starving education is totally a winning strategy). New Mexico goes full based with semi-open primaries and medical psilocybin (eat your heart out, DeSantis). Penguins declare trade war on Trump by selling pebbles to fight his Antarctic tariffs (yes, really). Illinois faculty avert a strike after standing firm against merit-pay nonsense. A Trump-voting beekeeper gets stung by his own side’s policies. And Utah unions rally to overturn a union-busting law because workers do in fact want rights accorded them in a democracy. Plus: Listener stories! Rate/review us on Apple Podcasts, share with your favorite lefty, and find us @GoodNewsForLefties on socials. Solidarity forever!Positive, daily news for democracy lovers! This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/LeftiesListen to our friends Jennifer and Dan of the Banned Camp podcast at BannedCampPodcast.comListen to This Week Again with Susanne Posel.If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.comYou can find out more about GNFL's daily news stories here:https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/bernie-sanders-aoc-rally-los-angeles-20273031.phphttps://apnews.com/article/trump-pandemic-relief-funding-states-lawsuit-e8b22caf1f2463085235d25af1d1b11bhttps://www.yahoo.com/news/semi-open-primaries-medical-magic-035900053.htmlhttps://www.rawstory.com/donald-trump-economic-policies-2671751464https://www.sltrib.com/news/politics/2025/04/10/utah-labor-leaders-make-final-push/More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.If you like Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, The MeidasTouch Podcast, and Pod Save America, you'll LOVE Good News For Lefties!Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

Apr 13, 2025 • 28min
Social Security Phone Victory, Right-Wing vs. Trump Tariffs & Patriotic Progressive Millionaires Fight Oligarchy
In this episode: The Social Security Administration backs down after public outrage over planned phone service cuts—a win for accessibility! An unlikely alliance forms as right-wing lawyers sue Trump over unconstitutional tariff overreach (even broken clocks, etc.). Colorado passes landmark gun safety laws despite NRA tantrums. Minnesota motel owners convert properties into affordable housing for the homeless. A heroic sea turtle rescue warms your damn heart. And the Patriotic Millionaires declare class war on oligarchs with a bold economic justice platform. Plus: Listener mail! Share this hope-fueled podcast with your favorite lefty, rate/review on Apple Podcasts, and find us @GoodNewsForLefties on socials. Democracy’s still breathing—let’s celebrate!This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/LeftiesListen to our friends Jennifer and Dan of the Banned Camp podcast at BannedCampPodcast.comListen to This Week Again with Susanne Posel.If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.comYou can find out more about GNFL's daily news stories here:https://www.axios.com/2025/04/09/social-security-cuts-dogehttps://newrepublic.com/post/193612/donald-trump-lawsuit-tariffs-far-right-grouphttps://www.cpr.org/2025/04/10/polis-signs-detachable-magazine-gun-bill/https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/motel-transformation-homeless-minnesotahttps://www.nbcnews.com/news/animal-news/sea-turtle-rescue-florida-rcna199618https://www.commondreams.org/news/patriotic-millionairesMore good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.If you like Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, The MeidasTouch Podcast, and Pod Save America, you'll LOVE Good News For Lefties!Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.Progressive liberal leftist democracy daily news Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

Apr 12, 2025 • 28min
Defiant States Protect DEI, Gig Workers Fight for Unions & Cat Declaws Get Banned - Progressive Wins!
Welcome to Good News For Lefties, the progressive podcast that brings you uplifting, democracy-affirming, and leftist-friendly daily news with a dash of wit! Host Beowulf Rochlen delivers your dose of liberal victories, resistance against authoritarian overreach, and heartwarming wins for workers, marginalized communities, and even our feline friends. In this episode: Blue states push back against federal attacks on DEI programs, standing firm for equitable education; California gig workers rally for union rights in a bold new labor fight against Uber and Lyft; Mayo Clinic workers reclaim their power by ditching a 50-year-old "no strike" clause; California moves to ban cruel cat declawing (finally!); LA schools defy ICE to protect immigrant students; and a Colorado rancher partners with conservationists to protect elk migration.This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/LeftiesListen to our friends Jennifer and Dan of the Banned Camp podcast at BannedCampPodcast.comListen to This Week Again with Susanne Posel.If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.comYou can find out more about GNFL's daily news stories here:https://pluribusnews.com/news-and-events/blue-states-reject-trumps-dei-ban/https://calmatters.org/politics/2025/04/gig-worker-unionize-labor/https://www.postbulletin.com/health/mayo-clinic-union-members-vote-to-open-possibility-of-a-strikehttps://www.kron4.com/news/california/bill-prohibiting-cat-declawing-in-california-moves-forward-in-state-legislature/https://www.rawstory.com/immigration-raids/https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/elk-can-migrate-through-private-colorado-ranch-after-first-of-its-kind-deal-with-conservation-group/More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.If you like Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, The MeidasTouch Podcast, and Pod Save America, you'll LOVE Good News For Lefties!Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.Progressive liberal leftist democracy daily news Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

Apr 11, 2025 • 20min
Justice Prevails: Supreme Court's Ruling on Deportation Case
In this uplifting episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen highlights significant recent legal and political developments that shine a light on justice and community support. The Supreme Court's unanimous ruling on the wrongful deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia serves as a reminder of the importance of legal accountability. Additionally, we explore the ongoing bipartisan efforts in Congress to limit President Trump's tariff powers, showcasing a growing coalition of lawmakers advocating for economic stability. We also celebrate the remarkable achievements in medical science with the first cure for sickle cell anemia in New York, and the proactive initiatives taken by local churches to address affordable housing crises. Tune in for inspiring stories and a reminder that progress is possible, even amidst challenges!This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/LeftiesListen to our friends Jennifer and Dan of the Banned Camp podcast at BannedCampPodcast.comListen to This Week Again with Susanne Posel.If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.comYou can find out more about GNFL's daily news stories here:https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/5243763-supreme-court-deports-trump/https://www.alternet.org/senator-trump-nominees/https://www.commondreams.org/news/congress-trump-tariffshttps://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/austin-texas-affordable-housing-seniorshttp://cbsnews.com/newyork/news/sickle-cell-anemia-cure-new-york/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2aGV-hO1-rSlr-x90l2eazoLzN5tB3iYCNuK2d9rJIgs0v4xASoa1S0yM_aem_y3h7BZbFRQe-q9KJ9wN-1A#5pyixb34gp5ot4bulyygwe4ghh2ajayr4https://ucsdguardian.org/2025/04/07/upte-cwa-9199-strike-continues-afscme-3299-union-joins-in-solidarity/More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.If you like Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, The MeidasTouch Podcast, and Pod Save America, you'll LOVE Good News For Lefties!Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

Apr 10, 2025 • 18min
Democracy and the AP, Progressive Healthcare Wages, and Immigrant Rights
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you uplifting stories that highlight recent victories for press freedom, democracy, immigrant rights, and innovative community solutions. Learn about a federal judge's ruling that restores the Associated Press's access to presidential events, a legal battle for immigrant rights led by Mahmoud Khalil, and the brave healthcare workers in Connecticut demanding fair wages. Discover how Chattanooga is transforming empty classrooms into child care micro centers, and how Kenyan farmers are using beehives to protect their crops from elephants. Join us as we celebrate these inspiring stories that remind us of the power of community and resilience!Positive, daily news for democracy lovers! This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/LeftiesListen to our friends Jennifer and Dan of the Banned Camp podcast at BannedCampPodcast.comListen to This Week Again with Susanne Posel.If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.comYou can find out more about GNFL's daily news stories here:https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/ap-wins-access-to-white-house-events-after-judge-rules-government-cant-bar-its-journalistshttps://www.commondreams.org/news/mahmoud-khalil-columbia-university-2671726828https://www.mcknights.com/news/after-4-year-deal-pushed-cna-wages-over-20-hourly-union-threatens-massive-strike-if-state-doesnt-do-more/https://reasonstobecheerful.world/child-care-micro-centers-classrooms/https://prospect.org/politics/2025-04-07-south-dakota-louisiana-voters-ballot-initiatives/https://chicago.suntimes.com/food-and-restaurants/2025/04/08/restaurant-reservation-selling-apps-face-crackdown-under-illinois-billMore good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.If you like Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, The MeidasTouch Podcast, and Pod Save America, you'll LOVE Good News For Lefties!Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.Progressive liberal leftist democracy daily news Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

Apr 9, 2025 • 13min
ACLU Fights For Democracy, Maine Defends Trans Kids, and Harriet Tubman Returns
In this episode of "Good News for Lefties," host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of uplifting stories that highlight the resilience of democracy, the fight for progressive values, and the triumphs of the left in the face of adversity. From the ACLU's bold legal actions against the Trump administration's misuse of the Alien Enemies Act to Maine's courageous stand for transgender rights, we explore how liberal values are being defended in the courts. We also celebrate the restoration of Harriet Tubman's legacy by the National Park Service, the groundbreaking wildlife crossing in Los Angeles, the FDA's approval of a new UTI treatment, and the recognition of ancient trees as an old-growth forest near Detroit. Join us for a dose of positivity and inspiration, and remember to share this podcast with others who need a little good news in their lives!Positive, daily news for democracy lovers! Listen to our friends Jennifer and Dan of the Banned Camp podcast at BannedCampPodcast.comListen to This Week Again with Susanne Posel.If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.comYou can find out more about GNFL's daily news stories here:https://www.commondreams.org/news/aclu-sues-trump-over-deportationshttps://apnews.com/article/trump-maine-usda-transgender-sports-abfc3c0c63995764bed6fcee167a2509https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/national-park-service-restores-original-harriet-tubman-underground-rai-rcna200298https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/06/la-wildlife-freeway-crossinghttps://time.com/7271483/new-uti-treatment-antibiotic/https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/300-year-old-trees-along-detroit-river-gain-recognition-as-old-growth-forest/More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.If you like Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, The MeidasTouch Podcast, and Pod Save America, you'll LOVE Good News For Lefties!Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.Progressive liberal leftist democracy daily newsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

Apr 8, 2025 • 14min
Standing Strong for Diversity, Tackling Medical Debt, Republicans Say No To Trump and Yes To Democracy
In this episode of "Good News for Lefties," host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of uplifting stories that highlight progressive victories and initiatives across the nation. From New York's unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education, to a bipartisan effort in Congress to rein in presidential trade powers, and a groundbreaking deal to alleviate medical debt for millions, this episode is packed with good news for the left. We also explore innovative conservation efforts for endangered species, legislative advancements in housing rights, and a significant legal victory for a woman facing unjust charges after a miscarriage. Join us for a dose of optimism and inspiration as we celebrate the strides being made for democracy, equity, and justice in America.Positive, daily news for democracy lovers! Listen to our friends Jennifer and Dan of the Banned Camp podcast at BannedCampPodcast.comListen to This Week Again with Susanne Posel.If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.comYou can find out more about GNFL's daily news stories here:https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/education/2025/04/07/new-york-will-not-back-down-to-trump-administration-on-dei-in-schools-lester-young-says/82970977007/https://thehill.com/homenews/senate/5236142-congress-tariff-bill-trump/https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2025/04/04/nx-s1-5349500/major-deal-wipes-out-30-billion-in-medical-debt-even-backers-say-its-not-enough?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=emailhttps://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/right-whale-sounds-massachusetts-buoys/https://ctnewsjunkie.com/2025/04/07/housing-bill-banning-some-ai-data-advances-out-of-judiciary-committee/https://archive.md/aAnAw#selection-3533.0-3533.68More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.If you like Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, The MeidasTouch Podcast, and Pod Save America, you'll LOVE Good News For Lefties!Progressive liberal leftist democracy daily newsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

Apr 7, 2025 • 16min
Judge Rules Against Deportation, Bernie & AOC, WNBA, and Fire Resilience - Wins For Democracy!
In this episode of "Good News for Lefties," host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of uplifting stories that highlight the progressive spirit in America. From a federal judge's courageous decision to return a wrongly deported man to the U.S., to the star-studded anti-oligarchy rally featuring music legends, we explore the triumphs of democracy and justice. We also celebrate the rise of the MeidasTouch podcast, which has become a beacon of progressive thought, and the groundbreaking achievements of the Golden State Valkyries in the WNBA. Finally, we delve into innovative solutions for climate resilience with KB Home's new wildfire-resilient community in California. Join us for a dose of optimism and inspiration in these challenging times, as we highlight the power of the left to effect change and uplift communities across the nation.Positive, daily news for democracy lovers! Listen to our friends Jennifer and Dan of the Banned Camp podcast at BannedCampPodcast.comListen to This Week Again with Susanne Posel.If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.comYou can find out more about GNFL's daily news stories here:https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/05/anti-trump-protests-hands-offhttps://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5234451-emhoff-hits-law-firm-over-trump-deal-report/https://apnews.com/article/new-hampshire-transgender-girls-sports-lawsuit-trump-ce80bf62d6174ce2e5e04822befca8dahttps://chicago.suntimes.com/metro-state/2025/03/24/illinois-returns-nearly-1-500-acres-of-stolen-land-to-states-first-federally-recognized-tribehttps://www.sfgate.com/local/article/guerrilla-transit-activists-bus-benches-bay-area-20234113.phphttps://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/the-size-of-a-rice-grain-worlds-smallest-pacemaker-is-activated-by-light/More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.If you like Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, The MeidasTouch Podcast, and Pod Save America, you'll LOVE Good News For Lefties!Progressive liberal leftist democracy daily news Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

Apr 6, 2025 • 16min
Hands Off Democracy, Tiny Pacemakers, Returning Land, and Trans Teens
In this episode of "Good News For Lefties," host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of uplifting stories that highlight the resilience of democracy, the fight for equality, and the power of community activism. From massive anti-Trump protests across the United States to the courageous actions of transgender teens standing up for their rights, we explore the progressive movements that are shaping our society. We also celebrate the return of stolen land to Indigenous tribes in Illinois, the grassroots efforts to improve public transit in the Bay Area, and groundbreaking medical advancements for newborns. Join us for a dose of positivity and inspiration as we navigate the daily news through a leftist lens. Remember to share this podcast with friends and family who need a little good news in their lives, and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts and other platforms!Positive, daily news for democracy lovers! Listen to our friends Jennifer and Dan of the Banned Camp podcast at BannedCampPodcast.comListen to This Week Again with Susanne Posel.If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.comYou can find out more about GNFL's daily news stories here:https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/05/anti-trump-protests-hands-offhttps://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5234451-emhoff-hits-law-firm-over-trump-deal-report/https://apnews.com/article/new-hampshire-transgender-girls-sports-lawsuit-trump-ce80bf62d6174ce2e5e04822befca8dahttps://chicago.suntimes.com/metro-state/2025/03/24/illinois-returns-nearly-1-500-acres-of-stolen-land-to-states-first-federally-recognized-tribehttps://www.sfgate.com/local/article/guerrilla-transit-activists-bus-benches-bay-area-20234113.phphttps://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/the-size-of-a-rice-grain-worlds-smallest-pacemaker-is-activated-by-light/More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.If you like Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, The MeidasTouch Podcast, and Pod Save America, you'll LOVE Good News For Lefties!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

Apr 5, 2025 • 18min
Health Funds Saved, Elections and Democracy, Video Game Unions, and Law Firms Stand Up
In this episode of "Good News for Lefties," host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a delightful mix of uplifting stories that highlight the progressive movement in America. From a federal judge blocking significant health fund cuts to a coalition of states standing up for democracy and election integrity, we explore the victories that remind us of the power of democracy. Plus, learn about the ZeniMax Media workers who are taking a stand for their rights, and the movement in Tennessee to ban harmful food dyes in schools. Join us as we celebrate these wins and encourage you to spread the good progressive vibes! Join us for a dose of positivity and encouragement as we navigate these challenging times together. Remember to share this podcast with friends and family who need a little good news, and don't forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts and other platforms!Positive, daily news for democracy lovers! Listen to our friends Jennifer and Dan of the Banned Camp podcast at BannedCampPodcast.comListen to This Week Again with Susanne Posel.If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.comYou can find out more about GNFL's daily news stories here:https://stateline.org/2025/04/04/repub/judge-to-temporarily-block-trump-administration-from-yanking-11b-in-health-funds-from-states/https://apnews.com/article/trump-elections-executive-order-states-lawsuit-5790caa7d4d801c4053e73dfa50622e9https://cwa-union.org/news/releases/video-game-workers-vote-authorize-strike-microsofthttps://abc7news.com/post/san-francisco-law-firm-keker-van-nest-peters-takes-stand-trump-administration-executive-orders-target-contracts/16099485/https://www.wbir.com/article/news/state/bill-banning-red-40-in-schools/51-ecbf4e5e-8d1d-478c-83b2-56f0c8fc1a69https://www.usnews.com/news/politics/articles/2025-04-01/us-house-advances-rule-to-let-members-who-are-new-parents-vote-by-proxyMore good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.If you like Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, The MeidasTouch Podcast, and Pod Save America, you'll LOVE Good News For Lefties!Progressive liberal leftist democracy daily newsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.