Lever Time

Craig Aaron, Co-CEO of Free Press and a local TV ownership expert, teams up with Matt Stoller, an authority on antitrust issues, to dissect the troubling trends in corporate media. They discuss how the recent cancellations of Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel reflect deeper issues of corporate power and regulatory pressures under the Trump administration. The duo also explores the chilling effects of media consolidation on creativity and free speech, while suggesting practical ways to combat these trends and promote independent media.

Robert Reich, former Labor Secretary and acclaimed author, dives into his extensive political journey and the lessons learned from multiple presidential administrations. He discusses the failures of the Baby Boomer generation and critiques the Democratic Party's shift toward corporate interests. Reich reflects on Obama's legacy, highlighting missed economic reform opportunities and the disconnect between the party and working-class voters. He also confronts deep-rooted anti-establishment sentiments while offering a cautiously optimistic vision for America's political future.

The podcast opens with a shocking activist shooting and recent school violence, prompting deep reflection. It highlights parallels between a film on civil war and today's societal turmoil. The discussion emphasizes the urgent need for unity amid escalating political polarization. It warns of the dangers of media-induced outrage and sensationalism, urging a return to constructive discourse. The call is clear: we must prioritize compassion and understanding to heal the divisions that threaten our society.

In this engaging discussion, Abdul El-Sayed, a physician and Michigan Senate candidate, goes deep into the healthcare debate, advocating for Medicare for All. Saikat Chakrabarti, a tech engineer challenging Pelosi in San Francisco, emphasizes the need to address wealth inequality and political corruption. Meanwhile, Antonio Delgado, the first person of color to represent upstate New York, outlines his vision for transforming local governance and combating economic disparities. Together, they represent a fresh wave of progressive change within the Democratic Party.

Bob Hockett, a finance law professor at Cornell, and Harold Meyerson, an Editor at The American Prospect, dive into the complexities of government ownership in big corporations. They discuss the U.S. government’s recent investment in Intel, raising questions about the balance between state involvement and capitalism. The conversation explores historical precedents, the implications of corporate subsidies, and the potential impacts on democracy—examining how personalism in governance under Trump shapes public policy and accountability.

In this conversation with Evan Osnos, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of "The Haves and Have-Yachts," the deepening divide between workers and the ultra-rich is laid bare. Osnos critiques the extravagant lifestyles of billionaires, highlighting their obsession with yachts, doomsday bunkers, and even space travel. He delves into how these symbols of opulence reflect the psychology of wealth and its societal implications. The discussion also touches on capitalism's evolution and the pressing issues of wealth inequality and social responsibility.

In this engaging discussion, Texas Democratic Congressman Lloyd Doggett—an active participant in the gerrymandering conflict—reveals Trump's alarming push to redraw congressional maps in favor of Republicans. Doggett shares his bold decision to step aside for new leadership in the face of these challenges. The conversation highlights the urgent need for Democrats to rethink strategies and unite in response to the evolving political landscape. Listeners will appreciate insights into how partisan redistricting threatens democratic norms and the importance of equitable representation.

In this engaging discussion, Ed Helms, comedian and writer renowned for his roles in The Office and The Daily Show, takes us through some of history's wildest screw-ups. He shares laughable yet chilling stories, like the plan to blow up the moon and near-misses during the Cold War. Helms emphasizes how our past blunders teach us about resilience and the dangers of trusting leaders with chaos. With wit and insight, he shows how laughter can help us navigate society's fears around nuclear threats and personal security.

In this discussion, Larry Levitt, Executive Vice President for Health Policy at KFF, and Miranda Yaver, an assistant professor specializing in health policy, dive into the alarming possibility of health insurance premiums skyrocketing by 66%. They dissect the political fallout from the expiration of ACA subsidies and the resulting financial strain on families, questioning whether these changes could boost support for Medicare for All. Their insights unpack how the complex U.S. healthcare system affects consumers and highlight potential policy solutions.

Explore the historical significance of Wall Street's Morgan building while uncovering personal journeys of bankers grappling with corporate life versus family. A former banker’s transformative path leads to a focus on education as capitalism faces rising skepticism among the youth. Delve into the complexities of child care economics, highlighting the struggles of providers and families within a profit-driven landscape. Join critical discussions on the need for reform and a sustainable future, questioning the very essence of capitalism itself.