Eric Lichtblau is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter and best-selling author known for his deep dives into the most pressing issues of national security, civil rights, and political extremism. Having spent years at The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times, Lichtblau has built a career on exposing the hidden structures of power and prejudice. His latest work, American Reich: A Murder in Orange County, Neo-Nazis, and a New Age of Hate, serves as a definitive account of the modern far-right movement, using the tragic murder of Blaze Bernstein as a lens to examine the rise of the Atomwaffen Division.

Joining the conversation is Shereen Rahming, a children’s author, educator, and a key figure in the South Orange County activism scene. Born in Belize, Shereen moved to the United States and eventually settled in Ladera Ranch, where her efforts to address systemic intolerance and a conservative culture of exclusion caught the attention of major media outlets. Shereen’s journey from a dedicated educator to a vocal community advocate provided Eric Lichtblau with a vital local perspective for his investigation, making her a central interviewee in the pages of American Reich.

American Reich

The intersection of Eric and Shereen’s work is a study in meaningful synchronicity. While Eric was mapping the national landscape of neo-Nazi radicalization, Shereen was confronting the manifestation of those same ideologies on the ground in her own neighborhood. Their shared presence in this investigative project highlights a crucial truth: that the work of a global journalist and a local activist are two sides of the same coin when it comes to defending democratic values and protecting vulnerable communities.

In this episode, host Jeanne Pepper explores the "unusual synchronicities" that bind these guests together. A striking example of this occurred when a podcast volunteer spotted Shereen in a Starbucks reading American Reich, only to discover she was a featured subject in the book. This is the meeting that bridged the gap between the recorded history in Eric’s pages and the ongoing reality of Shereen’s advocacy, illustrating how deeply the "New Age of Hate" has impacted individual lives and community structures alike.

Episode 327

Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper

Guest: Eric Lichtblau & Shereen Rahming

Producer: Eli Moskowitz

Original Theme: Jay Bernstein

Special Thank You to our volunteers

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LinkedIn: Jeanne Pepper

DISCLAIMER Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at [email protected]

#PeppTalkswithJeanne #JeannePepper #BlazeitForward

Jill Lloyd joins this episode to share a journey defined by both professional excellence and uncanny timing. For 33 years, Jill was a cornerstone of the Orange County community, serving as the high-profile publicist and media face of the OC Fair. In her interview, she reflects on the high-energy world of community events and how her decades spent managing public narratives eventually prepared her for a much more quiet and sacred calling in the world of death care.

Episode 326

Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper

Guest: Jill Lloyd

Producer: Eli Moskowitz

Original Theme: Jay Bernstein

Special Thank You to our volunteers

FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE to PeppTalks with Jeanne

Facebook: PeppTalks with Jeanne Pepper

Instagram: @pepptalkswithjeanne

LinkedIn: Jeanne Pepper

DISCLAIMER Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at [email protected]

#PeppTalkswithJeanne #JeannePepper #BlazeitForward

Episode 325

Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper

Guest: Trip Oldfield

Producer: Eli Moskowitz

Original Theme: Jay Bernstein

Special Thank You to our volunteers

FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE to PeppTalks with Jeanne

Facebook: PeppTalks with Jeanne Pepper

Instagram: @pepptalkswithjeanne

LinkedIn: Jeanne Pepper

DISCLAIMER Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at [email protected]

#PeppTalkswithJeanne #JeannePepper #BlazeitForward

In this episode, host Jeanne Pepper and Addie discuss the intersection of trauma and the public eye. They explore the emotional toll of accountability and the strength required to stand firm when the world is watching. Addie’s insights serve as a vital reminder that healing is not a linear process, but a courageous act of defiance. Her story isn't just about what happened to her; it’s about who she became because of it, and how she continues to lead with integrity.

Episode 324

Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper

Guest: Addie Zinone

Producer: Eli Moskowitz

Original Theme: Jay Bernstein

Special Thank You to our volunteers

FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE to PeppTalks with Jeanne

Facebook: PeppTalks with Jeanne Pepper

Instagram: @pepptalkswithjeanne

LinkedIn: Jeanne Pepper

DISCLAIMER Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at [email protected]

#PeppTalkswithJeanne #JeannePepper #BlazeitForward

In this episode, Brandi joins host Jeanne Pepper for a raw and necessary conversation about the reality of filicide and the "broken" status of child welfare departments. They discuss the legislative hurdles Brandi has overcome, the bipartisan support for The Rowan Act, and the importance of holding CPS directors accountable for failures in background checks and investigation protocols. It is a story of a mother’s love evolving into a protective shield for all children in the state of Michigan.

This interview serves as both a tribute to Rowan—a boy who loved golf and had an infectious smile—and a call to action. Brandi explains how listeners can support lobbying efforts, become "Court Support Advocates," and help designate August 31st as Filicide Awareness Day. Her journey proves that while the system failed Rowan, his legacy is now the catalyst for a safer future for every child in danger.

Episode 323

Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper

Guest: Brandi Morey-Pols

Producer: Eli Moskowitz

Original Theme: Jay Bernstein

Special Thank You to our volunteers

FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE to PeppTalks with Jeanne

Facebook: PeppTalks with Jeanne Pepper

Instagram: @pepptalkswithjeanne

LinkedIn: Jeanne Pepper

DISCLAIMER Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at [email protected]

#PeppTalkswithJeanne #JeannePepper #BlazeitForward

Episode 322

Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper

Guest: Shereen Rahming

Producer: Eli Moskowitz

Original Theme: Jay Bernstein

Special Thank You to our volunteers

FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE to PeppTalks with Jeanne

Facebook: PeppTalks with Jeanne Pepper

Instagram: @pepptalkswithjeanne

LinkedIn: Jeanne Pepper

DISCLAIMER Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at [email protected]

#PeppTalkswithJeanne #JeannePepper #BlazeitForward

We are joined by a guest who is both a distinguished educator and a cornerstone of the host's own family: Richard Bernstein. Richard is a former honors civics teacher who dedicated twenty years to the Los Angeles Unified School District at Vermont High School. Teaching in an area so volatile it was designated for "combat pay," Richard developed a unique perspective on the failures and successes of the American educational system, specifically regarding how we prepare our youth for the complexities of the modern world.

Episode 321

Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper

Guest: Richard Bernstein

Producer: Eli Moskowitz

Original Theme: Jay Bernstein

Special Thank You to our volunteers

FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE to PeppTalks with Jeanne

Facebook: PeppTalks with Jeanne Pepper

Instagram: @pepptalkswithjeanne

LinkedIn: Jeanne Pepper

DISCLAIMER Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at [email protected]

#PeppTalkswithJeanne #JeannePepper #BlazeitForward

While studying at UC Irvine, Adam began teaching chess at local elementary schools, including Foothill Ranch Elementary School. What started as a collegiate endeavor quickly blossomed into a mission-driven career. He realized that chess was more than just a game; it was a vehicle for teaching critical thinking, patience, and confidence—skills especially vital for at-risk youth. This passion led to the expansion of Academic Chess and the eventual founding of Strategic Kids.

Episode 320

Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper

Guest:  Adam Brody (http://www.strategickids.com/)

Executive Producer:  Jeanne Pepper

Producer: Eli Moskowitz (https://www.instagram.com/elijoelmos/)

Original Theme: Jay Bernstein

Special Thank You to our volunteers

FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE to PeppTalks with Jeanne

Facebook: PeppTalks with Jeanne Pepper

Instagram: @pepptalkswithjeanne

TikTok: @pepptalkswithjeanne

LinkedIn: Jeanne Pepper

DISCLAIMER Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at [email protected] #PeppTalkswithJeanne #JeannePepper #BlazeitForward

We are joined once again by Dr Michael GIlman, a devoted father who first shared his insights on the show during episode 304, alongside autism expert Melissa Reiner. While his previous appearance touched on the medical and societal landscape of neurodiversity, this episode pulls back the curtain on the Gilman family's private world, revealing a story of extraordinary resilience in the face of overlapping crises: autism advocacy and a childhood cancer diagnosis.

Episode 319

Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper

Guest: Dr. Michael Gilman

Producer: Eli Moskowitz

Original Theme: Jay Bernstein

Special Thank You to our volunteers

FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE to PeppTalks with Jeanne

Facebook: PeppTalks with Jeanne Pepper

Instagram: @pepptalkswithjeanne

LinkedIn: Jeanne Pepper

DISCLAIMER Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at [email protected]

#PeppTalkswithJeanne #JeannePepper #BlazeitForward

Episode 318

Hosted by: Jeanne Pepper

Guest: Melissa Reiner

Producer: Eli Moskowitz

Original Theme: Jay Bernstein

Special Thank You to our volunteers

FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE to PeppTalks with Jeanne

Facebook: PeppTalks with Jeanne Pepper

Instagram: @pepptalkswithjeanne

LinkedIn: Jeanne Pepper

DISCLAIMER Jeanne Pepper is providing this podcast as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Jeanne Pepper unless so stated. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Ms. Pepper’s guests are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Ms. Pepper. If you have any questions about this disclaimer or the content herein, please contact us at [email protected]

#PeppTalkswithJeanne #JeannePepper #BlazeitForward