Heidi Harris Show

What happens when a journalist spends a decade investigating one of the most controversial cultural and medical issues of our time?

Brandon Showalter of The Christian Post joins me to discuss what he's learned after ten years covering transgender issues — particularly the medical transition of children and young people.

We discuss the changing language surrounding gender medicine, mental health and vulnerable young people, parental rights, the role of the media and medical establishment, and why opposition to pediatric gender transition now includes some liberals, gay Americans and parents who might otherwise disagree politically.

Brandon also explains why his Christian faith shapes the way he views the issue, why he believes churches and pastors have a responsibility to speak up, and what he means when he says society risks developing a “seared conscience.”

His simplest argument may also be his most powerful:

“You don't cut the body to heal the mind.”

It's a candid conversation about medicine, culture, faith, journalism — and the consequences of being afraid to ask difficult questions.

Brandon M. Showalter is a journalist and podcaster with The Christian Post who has reported extensively on topics of theological interest in the Church; bioethics issues such as euthanasia, assisted suicide, artificial reproductive technology, and surrogacy; and the developments of the "gender identity" movement and transgender ideology. In 2022, he launched and co-produced CP's documentary podcast "Generation Indoctrination: Inside the Transgender Battle."

He earned a bachelor's degree in international studies and Spanish from Bridgewater College of Virginia in 2007, a Master of Arts in human rights from The Catholic University of America in 2022, and is a fellow of the John Jay Institute for Faith, Society, & Law.

1 Timothy 4:2 “Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.”

Brandon’s column: https://www.christianpost.com/voices/what-i-learned-after-10-years-of-covering-the-trans-madness.html

Teen taken from parents by judge: https://www.cnn.com/2018/02/16/health/ohio-transgender-teen-hearing-judge-decision

Wolves in white coats report: https://www.yahoo.com/news/politics/articles/wolves-white-coats-hhs-report-110052522.html

He was first inspired to pursue a career in writing and journalism while mopping floors and scrubbing toilets as a church custodian in April 2015.

Reimer twins: https://www.simplypsychology.org/david-reimer.html

https://www.sott.net/article/373088-The-Reimer-twins-A-tragic-and-highly-unethical-forced-sex-change-experiment

Phalloplasty, or what they like to call “bottom surgery”. View at your own risk: https://www.gurecon.com/photos-alt-phalloplasty

Stay in touch:

HeidiHarrisShow.com

@HeidiHarrisShow

The Heidi Harris Show — Courage & Clarity

Heidi Harris interviews entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and Lebanese civil war veteran Guy Nohra about President Trump's proposed ceasefire agreement ("MOU") with Iran and its implications for Israel, Lebanon, and the broader Middle East.

Key Themes

1. Wait and See

Nohra argues that ceasefires in the Middle East are often temporary pauses rather than permanent solutions. Drawing from his experience during the Lebanese Civil War, he cautions against assuming any agreement will hold until its details and results become clear.

2. Different Views of Victory

A major point of discussion is that Western leaders often measure success by military losses and gains, while groups such as Hezbollah may view mere survival as victory. Nohra explains that even after suffering significant damage, Hezbollah historically claimed success because it remained standing.

3. Hezbollah and Lebanon

Nohra provides background on Lebanon's religious and political factions and explains how Hezbollah became Iran's proxy force in the country. He argues that Hezbollah functions as both a political and military organization and remains the most powerful armed group inside Lebanon.

4. Concerns About the Ceasefire

Both Heidi and Nohra question whether the proposed agreement adequately addresses Iran's nuclear ambitions, Hezbollah's military power, and long-term regional stability. They express concern that Iran may gain time to regroup while retaining key capabilities.

5. The Concept of "Hudna"

Nohra discusses the Islamic concept of a hudna (truce), describing it as a temporary pause in conflict that may be used until conditions become more favorable. He suggests that historical examples make him skeptical of long-term peace agreements with Iranian-backed groups.

6. Syria and Regional Politics

The conversation explores Syria's role, Hezbollah's involvement in the Syrian civil war, and concerns about relying on former Islamist factions to help stabilize the region. Nohra argues that many Americans underestimate the complexities of Middle Eastern alliances and rivalries.

7. Domestic Politics and Trump's Strategy

Nohra speculates that political considerations, including upcoming U.S. elections and Trump's promise to avoid prolonged wars, may influence the administration's approach. He suggests the ceasefire could be an opportunity for Iran to demonstrate whether it intends to change course or continue confrontation.

Bottom Line

The conversation centers on skepticism about whether the ceasefire will produce lasting peace. While both speakers hope for a positive outcome, they question whether Iran and its proxies share the same goals and definitions of success as Western leaders. Nohra repeatedly emphasizes that the real test will be what happens after the agreement is signed, not the signing itself.

Guy Paul Nohra is a co-founder of Alta Partners, a leading life sciences venture capital firm that has funded more than 150 healthcare companies since 1996 through eight venture funds, representing over $2 billion in investments. Named to the Forbes Midas List in 2007, he has contributed to therapies addressing cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative disorders, orthopedics, and cancer.

In Layman’s Terms with Guy Nohra podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-laymans-terms-with-guy-nohra/id1806772757

Guy’s column on the issue: https://www.realclearworld.com/articles/2026/05/01/the_strange_case_of_lebanons_ceasefire_1180185.html

Guy’s book: “Not on our Watch”. https://www.amazon.com/Not-Our-Watch-Soldiers-Warning/dp/B0H514BZ4Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=1NY84D5BPTHEA&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.YI_RL3HtQQzk9cbaZVZb5Gv_PdBnQgMguDHlVCjEviM.aMG4WLu3Fne-bSx_mZkaaSEJ1CX8bTXp2ZDz4INsvAw&dib_tag=se&keywords=guy+paul+nohra+not+on+my+watch&qid=1781548424&sprefix=guy+paul+nohra+not+on+my+watch,aps,227&sr=8-1

Robert Spencer from Jihad Watch interview: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/f8ebc694-3f4b-40ca-883b-1b6544b5831c/

Check out my Vegas Crime Files podcast wherever you get podcasts.

Get on my email list: Go to HeidiHarrisShow.com and click on “message the show”!

The audio version of my book “Don’t Pat me on the Head!” is now available at heidiharrisshow.com!

HeidiHarris.com

HeidiHarrisShow.com

[email protected]

Podcast: Heidi Harris Show (Spotify, or anywhere you get podcasts)

@HeidiHarrisShow

Instagram: Heidi Harris Show

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Books:

Don’t Pat me on the Head! Blowback, Setbacks and Comebacks in Vegas radio

https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Pat-Me-Head-Comebacks/dp/1984195263/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3QWT1L4CYAGUH&keywords=dont+pat+me+on+the+head&qid=1698428860&s=books&sprefix=dont+pat+me+on+the+head%2Cstripbooks%2C175&sr=1-1

Cocktail Waitress Wisdom; Life Lessons Learned While Carrying a Tray in Las Vegas

https://www.amazon.com/Cocktail-Waitress-Wisdom-lessons-carrying/dp/0982983506/ref=sr_1_1?crid=XFT6XYR0G752&keywords=cocktail+waitress+wisdom&qid=1698428901&s=books&sprefix=cocktail+waitresss+wisdom%2Cstripbooks%2C169&sr=1-1

More than 100 days into the war with Iran, why does it still feel like nobody is telling the whole truth? In this episode, Heidi Harris talks with author and jihad expert Robert Spencer of JihadWatch.org about Donald Trump, Iran, Netanyahu, Islam, and the growing divide inside the MAGA movement over foreign policy.

Spencer argues that the West fundamentally misunderstands Islam — and that misunderstanding is shaping dangerous decisions in the Middle East. The conversation covers regime change in Iran, whether Trump believes he can “make a deal” with radical Islamic leaders, the future of Israel’s relationship with the United States, and why many ordinary Iranians remain trapped under a brutal regime they desperately want removed.

This is a candid, unfiltered discussion about war, ideology, geopolitics, and the long game being played in the Middle East.

Follow Heidi everywhere @HeidiHarrisShow

Robert Spencer is the director of Jihad Watch and a Shillman Fellow at the David Horowitz Freedom Center. He has authored 32 books on Islam and jihad, and has led seminars for various U.S. government agencies. Spencer is a regular columnist and has appeared on numerous media outlets and at various speaking engagements.

jihadwatch.org

Don’t forget to check out my NEW crime podcast, Vegas Crime Files, wherever you get podcasts. Firsthand interviews with the people who actually LIVED the cases. Wherever you get podcasts.

VegasCrimeFiles.com

Check out my Vegas Crime Files podcast wherever you get podcasts.

Get on my email list: Go to HeidiHarrisShow.com and click on “message the show”!

The audio version of my book “Don’t Pat me on the Head!” is now available at heidiharrisshow.com!

HeidiHarris.com

HeidiHarrisShow.com

[email protected]

Podcast: Heidi Harris Show (Spotify, or anywhere you get podcasts)

@HeidiHarrisShow

Instagram: Heidi Harris Show

Rumble: Heidi Harris Show (videos)

Youtube: Heidi Harris Show

Books:

Don’t Pat me on the Head! Blowback, Setbacks and Comebacks in Vegas radio

https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Pat-Me-Head-Comebacks/dp/1984195263/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3QWT1L4CYAGUH&keywords=dont+pat+me+on+the+head&qid=1698428860&s=books&sprefix=dont+pat+me+on+the+head%2Cstripbooks%2C175&sr=1-1

Cocktail Waitress Wisdom; Life Lessons Learned While Carrying a Tray in Las Vegas

https://www.amazon.com/Cocktail-Waitress-Wisdom-lessons-carrying/dp/0982983506/ref=sr_1_1?crid=XFT6XYR0G752&keywords=cocktail+waitress+wisdom&qid=1698428901&s=books&sprefix=cocktail+waitresss+wisdom%2Cstripbooks%2C169&sr=1-1

Las Vegas may be headed for its biggest casino ownership shakeup in years. Heidi Harris sits down with Review-Journal gaming reporter Rick Velotta to break down the growing buzz around billionaire Tilman Fertitta’s reported move toward Caesars Entertainment, what it could mean for Caesars Palace, and whether the Strip is about to become even more competitive.

They discuss:

1. Why Fertitta has other casino operators nervous
2. Whether Caesars could sell off some of its smaller properties
3. The rise of Hard Rock and how it could pressure competitors with lower prices and perks like free parking
4. Barry Diller’s interest in MGM Resorts
5. The corporatization of the Strip and whether Vegas has lost some of its old-school charm
6. Resort fees, expensive parking, overpriced drinks, and whether Vegas is still considered a “value destination”
7. How social media now shapes Las Vegas’ reputation more than the LVCVA ever could

Plus, Heidi and Rick share personal memories of classic Vegas, from Caesars fountains to the changing visitor experience on the modern Strip.

If you love Vegas history, casino business drama, and honest talk about where the city is headed next, this episode is for you.

https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/casinos-gaming/caesars-sale-is-one-of-highest-valued-casino-buyouts-ever-in-las-vegas-3832711/

Rick Velotta Bio:

Richard N. “Rick” Velotta has covered business, the gaming industry, tourism, transportation and aviation in Las Vegas for 25 years. A former reporter and editor with the Las Vegas Sun, the Ogden (Utah) Standard-Examiner, the Arizona Daily Sun in Flagstaff and the Aurora (Colo.) Sun, Velotta is a graduate of Northern Arizona University where he won the school’s top journalism honor. He became the Review-Journal's assistant business editor in September 2018.

Don’t forget to check out my NEW crime podcast, Vegas Crime Files, wherever you get podcasts. Firsthand interviews with the people who actually LIVED the cases. Wherever you get podcasts.

VegasCrimeFiles.com

Check out my Vegas Crime Files podcast wherever you get podcasts.

Get on my email list: Go to HeidiHarrisShow.com and click on “message the show”!

The audio version of my book “Don’t Pat me on the Head!” is now available at heidiharrisshow.com!

HeidiHarris.com

HeidiHarrisShow.com

[email protected]

Podcast: Heidi Harris Show (Spotify, or anywhere you get podcasts)

@HeidiHarrisShow

Instagram: Heidi Harris Show

Rumble: Heidi Harris Show (videos)

Youtube: Heidi Harris Show

Books:

Don’t Pat me on the Head! Blowback, Setbacks and Comebacks in Vegas radio

https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Pat-Me-Head-Comebacks/dp/1984195263/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3QWT1L4CYAGUH&keywords=dont+pat+me+on+the+head&qid=1698428860&s=books&sprefix=dont+pat+me+on+the+head%2Cstripbooks%2C175&sr=1-1

Cocktail Waitress Wisdom; Life Lessons Learned While Carrying a Tray in Las Vegas

https://www.amazon.com/Cocktail-Waitress-Wisdom-lessons-carrying/dp/0982983506/ref=sr_1_1?crid=XFT6XYR0G752&keywords=cocktail+waitress+wisdom&qid=1698428901&s=books&sprefix=cocktail+waitresss+wisdom%2Cstripbooks%2C169&sr=1-1

@Peter_Kasl

Heidi Harris interviews Peter Kasl, author of Escaping the Grip of Eastern European Communism, who shares his firsthand experience growing up under communist rule in Czechoslovakia and his family’s dramatic escape to freedom.

Kasl explains that even as a child, he understood communism was oppressive because his parents and grandparents—strongly anti-communist—constantly corrected the propaganda he was taught in school. Life under the regime required conformity: joining the Communist Party was essential for education, career advancement, and basic opportunities. His family refused, which limited their prospects and subjected them to scrutiny.

He describes how communism fostered a culture of fear, surveillance, and distrust. Citizens were incentivized to report one another, creating widespread suspicion and jealousy. Even small advantages—like owning a better car or earning extra income—could trigger investigations or punishment. Private enterprise was illegal, forcing his father to secretly repair cars in exchange for goods.

Kasl recounts his family’s carefully planned escape in 1983. Without telling the children, three families coordinated over years to flee. Under the guise of a vacation, they traveled through Eastern Europe, ultimately crossing into Austria illegally by hiking through mountainous terrain. From there, they made their way to West Germany and sought asylum, eventually immigrating to the United States. Their acceptance depended in part on not being affiliated with the Communist Party.

Upon arriving in the U.S., Kasl experienced a stark contrast: a society where individual effort mattered more than background. He emphasizes America’s unique openness compared to Europe, where immigrants were often permanently labeled as outsiders.

Returning years later to his homeland after the fall of communism, Kasl observed that many people struggled to adapt to freedom. Decades of living under authoritarian control had conditioned them to expect limited opportunity and government dependence. Some even expressed nostalgia for communism due to the false sense of security it provided.

Throughout the conversation, Kasl and Harris draw parallels between communist systems and modern societal trends, particularly during COVID-era restrictions. Kasl warns that freedom can erode gradually when people become complacent or trade liberty for perceived safety.

He also discusses how communism suppresses religion, replacing it with state ideology, and highlights the system’s historical record of oppression, inequality, and mass suffering. He stresses that communism, socialism, and similar ideologies often promise equality but instead concentrate power among elites.

Kasl concludes by expressing deep gratitude for the United States and a desire to educate younger generations—especially students—about the realities of communism, which he believes are widely misunderstood.

Allowing politicians to take your peace is voluntarily regardless of their schemes to obtain, maintain and increase their power. God's plan will go on regardless. I had a guy on Facebook argue with me about God's plan and calling me intolerant because I wasn't open to other people's gods in their plans. So I addressed that in this podcast.

My podcast is now on Spotify! Just search “Heidi Harris Show” and check it out!

Get on my email list: Go to HeidiHarrisShow.com and click on “message the show”!

The audio version of my book “Don’t Pat me on the Head!” is now available at heidiharrisshow.com!

Don’t forget to check out my NEW crime podcast, Vegas Crime Files, wherever you get podcasts. Firsthand interviews with the people who actually LIVED the cases. Wherever you get podcasts.

VegasCrimeFiles.com

HeidiHarris.com

HeidiHarrisShow.com

[email protected]

Podcast: Heidi Harris Show (Spotify, or anywhere you get podcasts)

@HeidiHarrisShow

Instagram: Heidi Harris Show

Rumble: Heidi Harris Show (videos)

Youtube: Heidi Harris Show

Books:

Don’t Pat me on the Head! Blowback, Setbacks and Comebacks in Vegas radio

https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Pat-Me-Head-Comebacks/dp/1984195263/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3QWT1L4CYAGUH&keywords=dont+pat+me+on+the+head&qid=1698428860&s=books&sprefix=dont+pat+me+on+the+head%2Cstripbooks%2C175&sr=1-1

Cocktail Waitress Wisdom; Life Lessons Learned While Carrying a Tray in Las Vegas

https://www.amazon.com/Cocktail-Waitress-Wisdom-lessons-carrying/dp/0982983506/ref=sr_1_1?crid=XFT6XYR0G752&keywords=cocktail+waitress+wisdom&qid=1698428901&s=books&sprefix=cocktail+waitresss+wisdom%2Cstripbooks%2C169&sr=1-1

Heidi Harris interviews Ira Melman from FAIR Immigration to discuss recent changes in immigration policy, the impact of H-1B visas, and national security concerns related to illegal immigration and sleeper cells. They analyze the implications of immigration reforms, tech layoffs, and the importance of American assimilation.

Discussed:

H-1B visa program changes under Trump and Biden

Impact of H-1B visas on American workers and wages

Security concerns: sleeper cells and terrorism

Border security and illegal immigration trends

The importance of assimilation and cultural integration

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Current Events

01:18 Changes to the H-1B Visa Program

04:46 The Impact of H-1B Visa on American Workers

09:25 Job Security and Layoffs in the Tech Sector

12:20 Immigration Policy Under Trump vs. Biden

15:15 Concerns About Sleeper Cells and Terrorism

18:13 Religious Conversion and Ideological Influence

21:48 Assimilation Challenges for Immigrants

26:44 Conclusion and Future Outlook

resources

Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) - https://www.fairus.org/

Heidi Harris (Host) - https://twitter.com/HeidiHarrisShow

Ira Melman (Guest) - https://twitter.com/IraMelman

I had a chance in 2015 to speak with a legendary Mont Rock III. He was best known as the colorful DJ in Saturday night fever. He fronted a band called Disco Tex and the Sex O'Lettes during the 70s. He was a famous hairdresser, frequent guest on the Tonight Show, and as he put it in his own words, "Famous for Being Famous".

I'm now sharing the interview because he passed away last week in Las Vegas. He was quite a character, in a town full of characters. And he was a huge fan of Donald Trump! Who knew?

Here's a link to his most famous song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=4&v=FdkhViXqnSk&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fduckduckgo.com%2F&themeRefresh=1

We are watching deeply disturbed young people spiral — and instead of confronting the mental health crisis head-on, we keep arguing about politics. We need to acknowledge what is happening with trans kids shooting up schools, and the underlying causes. These are individuals in profound psychological distress who needed intervention long before violence ever entered the picture.

They need serious, long-term mental health care — therapy, psychiatric evaluation, family involvement, and accountability.

My podcast is now on Spotify! Just search “Heidi Harris Show” and check it out!

Get on my email list: Go to HeidiHarrisShow.com and click on “message the show”!

The audio version of my book “Don’t Pat me on the Head!” is now available at heidiharrisshow.com!

HeidiHarris.com

HeidiHarrisShow.com

[email protected]

Podcast: Heidi Harris Show (Spotify, or anywhere you get podcasts)

@HeidiHarrisShow

Instagram: Heidi Harris Show

Rumble: Heidi Harris Show (videos)

Youtube: Heidi Harris Show

Books:

Don’t Pat me on the Head! Blowback, Setbacks and Comebacks in Vegas radio

https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Pat-Me-Head-Comebacks/dp/1984195263/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3QWT1L4CYAGUH&keywords=dont+pat+me+on+the+head&qid=1698428860&s=books&sprefix=dont+pat+me+on+the+head%2Cstripbooks%2C175&sr=1-1

Cocktail Waitress Wisdom; Life Lessons Learned While Carrying a Tray in Las Vegas

https://www.amazon.com/Cocktail-Waitress-Wisdom-lessons-carrying/dp/0982983506/ref=sr_1_1?crid=XFT6XYR0G752&keywords=cocktail+waitress+wisdom&qid=1698428901&s=books&sprefix=cocktail+waitresss+wisdom%2Cstripbooks%2C169&sr=1-1

Heidi Harris sits down with the state’s Lieutenant Governor and Marshi Smith, a longtime women’s sports advocate, for a candid discussion on protecting women’s sports and the opportunities they provide. The conversation focuses on the original intent of women’s athletics—to ensure fair competition, safety, and equal opportunity—and how those principles are being challenged today.

Marshi Smith brings the perspective of athletes and advocates who have spent decades fighting for women’s sports, outlining concerns about competitive balance, scholarships, and the long-term impact on girls and young women. The Lieutenant Governor discusses the issue from a policy and governance standpoint, including how state leaders are approaching questions of fairness, Title IX, and the role of legislation versus athletic governing bodies.

Rather than slogans, the discussion centers on real-world consequences, unresolved questions, and the difficulty of navigating an emotionally charged issue while respecting women’s rights and the integrity of female athletics.