

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 24, 2025 • 31min
Delaware's Freedom to Read Act: A Stand Against Censorship
In this episode, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you uplifting stories that highlight progressive movements across the United States. From Colorado's Senate Bill 276, which seeks to protect immigrant communities from federal overreach, to Delaware's Freedom to Read Act aimed at preserving intellectual freedom, we explore the impactful legislation shaping our society. Join us as we celebrate innovative solutions like the DriveIt app, created by a young activist to streamline DMV appointments, and New Mexico's groundbreaking initiative to provide free universal childcare. Tune in for a dose of good news and inspiration. It's 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.denverpost.com/2025/04/21/colorado-senate-passes-immigration-bill-civil-rights-legislature/https://www.delawarepublic.org/politics-government/2025-04-20/delaware-lawmakers-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-limit-book-bans-in-schools-and-librarieshttps://www.commondreams.org/news/trump-attack-on-universitieshttps://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/long-wait-times-dmv-hack-teen-apphttps://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/11/childcare-new-mexico-povertyMore 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, Aaron Watson, and Melissa Hart 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 23, 2025 • 26min
Colorado's Junk Fees Law: A Win for Renters Everywhere!
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a selection of uplifting stories that highlight progressive victories and initiatives across the United States. From New York's bold legislative measures to safeguard its workforce to groundbreaking gun safety laws in Colorado, we explore how progressive lawmakers are making strides in protecting their communities. We also discuss the historic decision by the International Olympic Committee to ensure female athletes will make up the majority of participants at the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Games. Tune in for a dose of optimism and inspiration!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.news10.com/news/legislation-proposed-to-withhold-new-yorks-payments-to-the-federal-government/https://washingtonmonthly.com/2025/04/18/court-ruling-against-google-ad-tech-monopoly-is-a-victory-for-journalism/https://www.denverpost.com/2025/04/21/colorado-housing-hidden-fees-apartments-utilities-pests/https://marylandmatters.org/2025/04/18/maryland-high-school-graduation-rate-reaches-seven-year-high/https://www.denverpost.com/2025/04/18/colorado-gun-control-ammo-sales-gun-shows/https://apnews.com/article/ioc-fifa-2028-olympics-womens-soccer-8a881f452c544d204662e237a55a7a3fMore 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 22, 2025 • 27min
Labor Rights Win Big, California Fights Trump Tariffs & Boston Expands Affordable Housing – Good News For Progressives
Welcome to Good News For Lefties, the progressive podcast that brings you uplifting daily news for liberals, leftists, and everyone who believes in democracy, justice, and a fairer future! In this episode, host Beowulf Rochlendelivers a powerhouse lineup of lefty victories:Labor Rights Lawsuit: Progressive groups challenge the unlawful termination of global labor rights programs, standing up for workers worldwide.California vs. Trump Tariffs: Governor Newsom and AG Bonta launch a bold legal fight against Trump’s illegal tariffs, defending fair trade and economic stability.Boston’s Affordable Housing Win: Mayor Michelle Wu converts 347 market-rate units into permanently affordable housing, pushing back against gentrification.Wildfire Prevention Funding: California fast-tracks $170M to protect communities from wildfires while the feds fail to act.Trans-Led Housing Solutions: Baltimore Safe Haven and other trans-led orgs build life-saving housing for vulnerable LGBTQ+ folks.Sandhill Cranes Thrive: A record-breaking migration offers hope for conservationists amid ecological threats.Big Oil Pays Up: Chevron hit with a $744M verdict for destroying Louisiana’s wetlands—a massive win for environmental justice.Tune in for a dose of progressive victories. Share this podcast with anyone who needs good news in these dark times—because the left is winning, and Beowulf Rochlen is here to tell you how!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:Common Dreams – Groups Challenge Unlawful Termination of Global Labor Rights ProgramsThe Guardian – California Launches Legal Challenge Against Trump TariffsGood Good Good – Boston Affordable Housing Plan and GentrificationJefferson Public Radio – California Lawmakers Expedite Fire Prevention FundsYES! Magazine – Housing Insecurity Among Trans PeopleSmithsonian Magazine – Record Sandhill Crane Migration and Bird Flu ConcernsMore 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 21, 2025 • 45min
SCOTUS Pauses For Democracy, America Protests - AGAIN, and LGBTQ Self-Defense
We discuss the recent Supreme Court decision halting the Trump administration's attempts to deport Venezuelan men from Texas accused of being gang members, highlighting the administration's disregard for due process. Plus, the ongoing nationwide protests against Trump's policies, emphasizing the growing mobilization of Americans. And, the rise in self-defense classes for the LGBTQ+ community as a positive response to the increasing threats against them. All this and a change in the format. But don't worry - it's still good news for progressives and lefties of all stripes! 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.comMore 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 20, 2025 • 13min
Colorado Hospitals Reopen Gender Affirming Care for Youth
In this episode, we bring you a wave of positivity as we explore groundbreaking stories that highlight innovation and compassion. From researchers in Hawaii training marine fungi to combat ocean plastics, to Colorado hospitals reinstating gender-affirming care for youth, we celebrate the strides being made in environmental and social justice. We also discuss a lawsuit against Trump and Musk aimed at protecting our environment, and the incredible efforts of nonprofits in Maine to eliminate medical debt for struggling families. Finally, we spotlight a transformative housing initiative for homeless students in Los Angeles. Join us for a heartwarming journey through inspiring news!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.comMore 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 19, 2025 • 18min
Mutual Defense Compacts, Wolf Comebacks & Book Brigades: Good News for Democracy, Ecology & Community
Welcome to Good News For Lefties, the daily news antidote for progressive hearts! This week, host Beowulf Rochlen—with his signature old-time radio charm and a dash of cheeky wit—delivers uplifting stories proving democracy, ecology, and people power are alive and kicking.First, universities nationwide defy Trump’s authoritarian crackdowns, forming mutual defense compacts to protect academic freedom, DEI programs, and student protesters from ICE raids. Then, Oregon’s gray wolves hit a historic population milestone—200 strong!—thanks to relentless conservation efforts (despite ranchers’ grumbling).In the courts, a federal judge smacks down Trump’s freeze on climate and environmental justice grants, safeguarding lead-poisoning prevention and green infrastructure. Meanwhile, blue states like California and New York double down on climate superfund laws and cap-and-trade programs, spitting in the face of federal overreach.Plus, heartwarming dispatches from the frontlines of community solidarity: a heroic ranch dog named Buford rescues a missing toddler in Arizona, and a Michigan town forms a human book brigade to save their beloved indie bookstore.It’s liberal, it’s leftist, it’s the daily news you actually want to hear. Share it, rate it, and remember: the future’s still worth fighting for.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/campus-protesthttps://www.ijpr.org/environment-energy-and-transportation/2025-04-17/oregon-wolf-population-surpasses-200-for-first-time-in-8-decadeshttps://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/ri-federal-judge-orders-trump-administration-resume-grant-payments-environmental-nonprofitshttps://pluribusnews.com/news-and-events/state-leaders-dismiss-trump-order-attacking-climate-policies/https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/dozens-searched-missing-2-year-old-arizona-desert-buford-dog-was-real-rcna201654https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/hundreds-of-volunteers-form-a-human-chain-to-get-9000-books-to-new-location-for-indie-bookstore/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 18, 2025 • 19min
Alabama Saves Pharmacies, Montana Bans Styrofoam, Arizona Schools Go Healthy & More – Good News for Democracy
Welcome to Good News For Lefties, the podcast that delivers a hearty dose of progressive victories, uplifting stories, and left-leaning wins in these often-dark times. In today’s episode: Alabama takes on corporate greed as grassroots activists score a major win against predatory Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), forcing Governor Kay Ivey to sign a law protecting local pharmacies—a triumph for democracy and healthcare access! Montana says "no more Styrofoam" in a bold move for public health and the environment, proving that even red states can embrace progressive policies when people demand change. Arizona bans harmful additives in school foods, putting kids' health over corporate profits—another win for evidence-based policymaking! A New York community rallies around an immigrant family detained by ICE, showing the power of solidarity in the face of injustice. Polling data reveals bad news for MAGA as Americans sour on Trump’s economic policies—could an impeachment be on the horizon? Tune in for all this and more, because in a world that often feels bleak, Good News For Lefties is here to remind you: the fight is far from over, and the left is winning more battles than you think.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.thedailybeast.com/cnn-data-guru-reveals-bad-trend-for-maga-americans-are-not-buying-what-trump-is-selling/https://www.npr.org/2025/04/08/nx-s1-5354933/sackets-harbor-family-detainedhttps://archive.md/oqKbohttps://dailymontanan.com/2025/04/14/montana-moves-to-ban-styrofoam-containers-in-food-industry/https://www.al.com/politics/2025/04/alabama-loses-a-pharmacy-a-week-ivey-signs-new-law-to-help-save-them.htmlMore 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 17, 2025 • 12min
Justice, Rights, Progress, and Community Resilience
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 reproductive rights, and the power of community action. We discuss the recent court rulings that protect voting rights in Arizona and the alarming rise in book bans targeting LGBTQ characters and people of color. Plus, we celebrate the launch of Bookshop.org's new e-book platform, challenging Amazon's monopoly, and the innovative transformation of former border wall shipping containers into foster homes. Join us for a dose of positivity and inspiration as we navigate the daily news landscape with a leftist lens.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.comMore 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 16, 2025 • 21min
Senate Dems Block Trump, AOC Fights for Workers, Oregon Protects Students & Big Oil Loses in Court
Tired of doomscrolling through the daily news? Need a dose of progressive victories to keep your spirits up? Welcome to Good News For Lefties, the podcast that brings you the brightest spots for liberal and leftist causes in America—because yes, good things are still happening! First up: Senate Democrats are moving to block Trump from unilaterally withdrawing from NATO—because apparently, some folks still believe in alliances. Then, AOC and fellow Democrats push to expand worker protections—take that, corporate overlords! Over in Oregon, the governor teams up with labor and education leaders to shield students from bullying and discrimination—because kids deserve safe schools, not culture war battlegrounds. Meanwhile, a federal judge just told Big Oil "no thanks" on a risky Gulf lease that threatened the Rice’s whale—score one for the climate! And finally, a pro-bono legal bootcamp is training the next generation of climate movement lawyers—because saving the planet requires more than just reusable straws.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://au.news.yahoo.com/senate-democrats-looking-block-trump-220826409.htmlhttps://www.commondreams.org/news/aoc-democratshttps://www.ijpr.org/education/2025-04-14/oregon-governor-joins-labor-education-leaders-in-effort-to-protect-students-from-bullying-discriminationhttps://www.nola.com/news/environment/judge-oil-gas-lease-rices-whale-gulf/article_15a67c65-fd78-4c14-872a-54697a26ba37.htmlhttps://grist.org/looking-forward/the-climate-movement-needs-lawyers-this-pro-bono-bootcamp-helps-connect-the-dots/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 15, 2025 • 21min
Sanders & AOC Back Utah Workers, Free School Lunches Win, California Defies Trump, Alex Jones Pays Up & Eco-Surf Homes Rise
Tired of doomscrolling through the daily news? Need a shot of hope for democracy, workers' rights, and progressive wins? Good News For Lefties is your antidote to despair! Join your host, Beowulf Rochlen—yes, that’s his real name—as he delivers uplifting, irreverent, and unabashedly lefty news with an old-time radio flair. In this episode: Bernie Sanders and AOC rally with Utah workers fighting for union rights, Utah’s GOP governor embraces free school lunches (take notes, red states!), California tells Trump’s election meddling to get lost, Alex Jones finally coughs up cash for Sandy Hook families, Hawaii turns surfboard waste into affordable housing, and Baltimore’s community fridge network fights food insecurity. Democracy isn’t dead—it’s just getting warmed up! Share this podcast with your favorite liberal, progressive, or leftist friend who needs good news in these dark times.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.commondreams.org/news/sanders-ocasio-cortez-utahhttps://www.sltrib.com/news/education/2025/03/26/utahs-free-school-lunch-program-is/https://www.yahoo.com/news/california-defies-trump-order-certify-030935959.htmlhttps://apnews.com/article/alex-jones-sandy-hook-shooting-infowars-60d5e76f5f9da99397667f6f7f03626ehttps://www.civilbeat.org/2025/03/riding-a-wave-surfboard-waste-turned-into-building-blocks-for-new-homes/https://www.cbsnews.com/baltimore/news/food-insecurity-baltimore-women-community-fridge-network/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.