Lever Time

The podcast dives into the conservative takeover of media, spotlighting Bari Weiss's controversial rise at CBS News. It explores the historical influence of the Powell Memo, which urged corporations to dominate public discourse. The discussion highlights how media consolidation has stifled diverse viewpoints, risking democracy. Listeners are called to support independent journalism as a bulwark against oligarch-fueled narratives. Key takeaways include the need to break up media monopolies and the implications of recent corporate media maneuvers.

Helen Santoro, a Reporter at The Lever, dives into her investigation of Zillow and Redfin's one-stop real estate platforms. She reveals how these conveniences may disguise hidden costs for homebuyers. Exploring the lucrative mortgage market, Helen discusses the dangers of steering consumers towards in-house lenders and how this ties into regulatory issues. The conversation touches on the impact of the 2008 crisis on these platforms, the potential risks they impose on consumers, and ongoing scrutiny from regulators. It's a compelling look at the future of homebuying.

Join investigative journalist Ken Klippenstein, known for his insights on civil liberties, as he dives deep into NSPM-7, a controversial directive altering the landscape of domestic terrorism. He reveals how this memo expands indicators to include views deemed anti-American or anti-capitalist. Ken discusses chilling effects on free speech and the potential targeting of nonprofits. He raises alarms about the ramifications for journalists and sources, all while challenging the narrative around political violence. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation!

Keith Ellison, the Elected Attorney General of Minnesota and former U.S. Representative renowned for his civil rights work, discusses pressing legal battles against the Trump administration's executive orders. He shares insights on suing TikTok over youth exploitation, addressing gun violence through corporate accountability, and the importance of antitrust actions against monopolies. Ellison also critiques the Democratic Party’s strategies and emphasizes grassroots mobilization to expand the electorate, advocating for bold action on economic justice and civil rights.

Alec Karakatsanis, a civil rights lawyer and author of 'Copaganda', dives into the myths surrounding crime in America. He challenges President Trump's fearmongering about violent crime by contrasting it with declining FBI data. Karakatsanis explores how media amplifies public fears, particularly targeting marginalized communities. He discusses the dangerous effects of 'broken windows' policing and the PR tactics behind crime coverage, urging for reforms to shift away from oppressive policies and build a more equitable public safety framework.

Bill McKibben, a bestselling author and climate activist, discusses the transformative potential of solar energy in today's world. He highlights the solar revolution's tipping point and its impact on climate policy. McKibben delves into the history of solar technology, the efficiencies of solar paired with EVs, and solutions to battery and land use challenges. He outlines practical steps for accelerating solar deployment, fostering hope for a sustainable future despite political obstacles. Don't miss insights from his new book, *Here Comes the Sun*.

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.