The Karel Show

Dolly Parton’s Death Raises a Big Question: Does the Public Have a Right to Know?
Dolly Parton’s death shocked millions of fans around the world. Within hours, the public learned that cancer was the cause. But increasingly, when celebrities, politicians and other public figures die, we hear that they died—but not necessarily how or why.
So where should the line be drawn between a family’s right to medical privacy and the public’s right to know?
On today’s The Karel Cast, Karel examines how reporting on death has changed in the age of instant news and social media. Sometimes determining an official cause of death takes weeks or even months. But in other cases, families simply choose not to disclose it.
Does being a public figure change the equation? Is cause of death legitimate news—or are we treating private medical information as something the public is automatically entitled to know?
Then, Meta agrees to a staggering $16.7 billion settlement involving allegations surrounding social media addiction and harm. If these platforms can cause serious harm—particularly to young people—who ultimately pays the price? Where does settlement money actually go? And if governments believe social media products can be dangerously addictive, why are the companies behind them still allowed to operate largely as they do today?
Karel tackles two questions about modern life that have more in common than they initially appear to: How much are we entitled to know—and how much responsibility should powerful institutions have for the consequences of what they do?
What do you think? Should the cause of death of a major public figure be disclosed? And have governments done enough to hold social media companies accountable?
Join the conversation in the comments, LIKE this video, SUBSCRIBE to The Karel Cast and SHARE it with someone who has an opinion.
Support independent media and The Karel Cast at Patreon:
patreon.com/reallykarel
Watch and subscribe on YouTube:
youtube.com/reallykarel
The Karel Cast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Spreaker and other major streaming platforms and can also be seen on TikTok and Instagram.
LIVE Monday–Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Pacific.
Karel is a history-making broadcaster, entertainer and commentator based in Las Vegas, joined by his little service dog, Ember.
#DollyParton, #DollyPartonDeath, #DollyPartonNews, #CelebrityNews, #CauseOfDeath, #CelebrityDeaths, #MedicalPrivacy, #RightToPrivacy, #PublicFigures, #MediaEthics, #Journalism, #BreakingNews, #NewsCommentary, #TheKarelCast, #Karel, #Meta, #Facebook, #Instagram, #SocialMedia, #SocialMediaAddiction, #MetaSettlement, #BigTech, #TechNews, #SocialMediaSafety, #OnlineSafety, #MentalHealth, #CurrentEvents, #NewsAnalysis, #IndependentMedia, #PoliticalCommentary
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GdvueOhPZmE



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-karel-show--1368295/support.

The Karel Show is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel and streams live Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST. Available on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Apple Music, Spotify, iHeart Media, Spreaker, and all major platforms.

Democrats Need to Figure It Out, FastYesterdayTrump Tanks But Democrats Don't Soar in America—Can They Turn It Around Before It’s Too Late?Donald Trump’s approval ratings are falling—but Democrats shouldn’t celebrate yet. Many polls suggest the Democratic Party is struggling to win over voters, build enthusiasm, and present a compelling alternative.In this episode of The Karel Cast, Karel asks why a party that claims to champion working families, civil rights, healthcare, and democracy continues to lose public confidence. Why are so many voters attracted to the very politicians whose policies may work against their interests?The uncomfortable truth may be that America isn’t looking for “nice.” Voters want strength, clarity, confidence, and decisive leadership. Can Democrats stop playing defense, communicate a bold vision, and prove they’re prepared to lead?If they can’t figure it out—and fast—what happens in the next election? More importantly, what happens to American democracy?Watch now, share your opinion in the comments, and subscribe for independent political commentary from The Karel Cast.Support The Karel Cast:patreon.com/reallykarelWatch, like, and subscribe:youtube.com/reallykarelThe Karel Cast streams live Monday through Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Pacific and is available on YouTube, Apple Music, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Spreaker, TikTok, Instagram, and other major platforms.Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer based in Las Vegas with his service dog, Ember.#Democrats, #DemocraticParty, #DonaldTrump, #Trump, #TrumpApprovalRating, #USPolitics, #AmericanPolitics, #PoliticalNews, #PoliticalCommentary, #BreakingPolitics, #CurrentEvents, #ElectionNews, #MidtermElections, #PresidentialElection, #AmericanDemocracy, #Democracy, #Congress, #Progressives, #Liberals, #IndependentVoters, #WorkingClass, #VoterOutreach, #PoliticalStrategy, #DemocraticLeadership, #ElectionStrategy, #NewsAnalysis, #TheKarelCast, #KarelCast, #ReallyKarel, #LasVegashttps://youtube.com/live/0AM6qr-bO1U



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-karel-show--1368295/support.

The Karel Show is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel and streams live Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST. Available on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Apple Music, Spotify, iHeart Media, Spreaker, and all major platforms.

Trump's War on Americans ContinueYesterdayTrump's War on Americans ContinueTrump’s Canada Tariff, Iran Conflict & ICE Crackdown: Americans Pay the PriceDonald Trump’s latest policies could hit Americans where it hurts most: their wallets, workplaces, healthcare, and communities.
In this episode of The Karel Cast, Karel examines how a new tariff on Canadian goods could raise prices across construction, food, alcohol, and other key industries. He also discusses escalating tensions with Iran, continued pressure on gas and food prices, and America’s growing alienation from its allies.Plus, how is the ICE immigration crackdown affecting everyday life? Fear within immigrant communities could deepen worker shortages in hospitals, nursing care, factories, tourism, and other essential industries—potentially increasing costs for everyone.While Americans confront these challenges, Trump appears focused on photo opportunities, a new ballroom, and notes from Natalie. Karel asks whether the administration’s priorities amount to a continuing war on the American people.Finally, Karel gets personal about the homelessness crisis affecting parks and neighborhoods in Las Vegas—including Desert Breeze Park—and asks the question communities across the country are struggling with: Who is actually doing anything about it?Support The Karel Cast:
patreon.com/reallykarelWatch, like, comment, and subscribe:
youtube.com/reallykarelThe Karel Cast streams live Monday through Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Pacific and is available on YouTube, Apple Music, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Spreaker, TikTok, Instagram, and other major platforms.Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer based in Las Vegas with his service dog, Ember.#Trump, #DonaldTrump, #TrumpTariffs, #CanadaTariffs, #Tariffs, #Iran, #IranConflict, #ICE, #Immigration, #ImmigrationCrackdown, #GasPrices, #FoodPrices, #CostOfLiving, #Inflation, #AmericanEconomy, #HealthcareWorkers, #WorkerShortage, #Tourism, #USPolitics, #PoliticalNews, #BreakingPolitics, #CurrentEvents, #TrumpAdministration, #Homelessness, #HomelessnessCrisis, #LasVegas, #DesertBreezePark, #TheKarelCast, #KarelCast, #ReallyKarelhttps://youtube.com/live/Rqg-eo7emLc



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-karel-show--1368295/support.

The Karel Show is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel and streams live Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST. Available on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Apple Music, Spotify, iHeart Media, Spreaker, and all major platforms.

LGBTQ Rights Under Attack: Ukraine, Russia, Africa and the Politics Behind the Backlash
Why are LGBTQ+ people increasingly being targeted during times of war, political instability and economic uncertainty?
In this episode of This Gay Week, Scott Jacobsen joins Karel live from Ukraine during one of the most intense nights of bombing in the war. Together, they examine the realities facing LGBTQ+ communities in Ukraine, Russia, Africa and around the world.
The conversation explores whether attacks on LGBTQ+ rights are being used as political distractions—and why some American conservative organizations are exporting anti-LGBTQ+ campaigns to African nations. Are these policies truly rooted in local values, or are they a legacy of colonial-era religious and legal systems?
Karel and Scott also consider a troubling pattern: as LGBTQ+ people have become more visible and demanded equal rights, political and legislative attacks against them have intensified. History has shown that LGBTQ+ people cannot be erased, so why do governments and political movements keep trying? The answer may lie in power, money and electoral gain.
Watch the full discussion, share your perspective in the comments, and please like and subscribe.
Support The Karel Cast:
https://patreon.com/reallykarel
Watch and subscribe:
https://youtube.com/reallykarel
The Karel Cast is available on Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Spreaker and other major streaming platforms. Watch live Monday through Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Pacific, with additional content on TikTok and Instagram.
Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer based in Las Vegas with his service dog, Ember.
#LGBTQ, #LGBTQRights, #LGBTQNews, #GayRights, #HumanRights, #Ukraine, #UkraineWar, #Russia, #Africa, #WorldNews, #BreakingNews, #PoliticalNews, #GlobalPolitics, #Equality, #CivilRights, #QueerNews, #GayNews, #LGBTQEquality, #AntiLGBTQLaws, #Politics, #SocialJustice, #HumanRightsNews, #ThisGayWeek, #TheKarelCast, #ReallyKarel, #ScottJacobsen, #UkraineNews, #CultureWars, #ReligiousFreedom, #Democracy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l8tRPHNXIWk


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-karel-show--1368295/support.

The Karel Show is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel and streams live Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST. Available on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Apple Music, Spotify, iHeart Media, Spreaker, and all major platforms.

Did Lizzie Borden Get Away With Murder? The Chilling Truth Behind the Legend
Did Lizzie Borden really take a hatchet and murder her father and stepmother—or has history convicted an innocent woman?
As Netflix revisits the infamous Lizzie Borden case in Ryan Murphy’s Monster, The Karel Cast investigates the evidence, unanswered questions and surprising details behind one of America’s most enduring true-crime mysteries.
Karel speaks with Ryk McIntyre, a longtime Lizzie Borden history specialist affiliated with the Borden House in Fall River, Massachusetts. Was Lizzie the killer? Did she arrange a murder for hire? Or does the real story point somewhere else entirely?
What you think you know about Lizzie Borden may be only half the story—and Hollywood’s version could be very different from the historical truth.
Support The Karel Cast at patreon.com/reallykarel. Watch, like and subscribe at youtube.com/reallykarel.
The Karel Cast streams live Monday through Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Pacific and is available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Spreaker, TikTok and Instagram.
#LizzieBorden, #TrueCrime, #UnsolvedMystery, #UnsolvedMurder, #MurderMystery, #CrimeHistory, #HistoricalCrime, #AmericanHistory, #DarkHistory, #TrueCrimePodcast, #TrueCrimeCommunity, #NetflixMonster, #MonsterNetflix, #RyanMurphy, #LizzieBordenHouse, #FallRiver, #MassachusettsHistory, #ColdCase, #CrimeDocumentary, #MysteryPodcast, #FamousMurders, #VictorianCrime, #BordenMurders, #AndrewBorden, #AbbyBorden, #DidLizzieDoIt, #HistoryMysteries, #TheKarelCast, #ReallyKarel, #TrueCrimeFans
https://youtube.com/live/kvCkfiWg-jY


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-karel-show--1368295/support.

The Karel Show is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel and streams live Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST. Available on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Apple Music, Spotify, iHeart Media, Spreaker, and all major platforms.

Is the West Running Out of Water? Las Vegas, Trump & a Congress in Hiding
Lake Powell is approaching record-low territory, the Colorado River crisis is intensifying—and the American West is running out of time. When will our leaders finally treat this like the emergency it is?
Karel examines a frightening New York Times report about the future of Lake Powell and what it could mean for Las Vegas, Lake Mead and millions of people across the West. Could Southern Nevada eventually enforce its annual residential water-use cap? What would a limit of roughly 460 gallons per household per day actually mean for Las Vegas residents?
Then, Karel turns to Washington: Donald Trump’s conduct, questions about his mental fitness, rising prices and the possibility of another unwinnable, open-ended conflict. Are Americans truly stuck waiting for the midterm elections—or does Congress have the power and responsibility to intervene now?
History may not judge congressional Republicans kindly. And one question demands an answer: Where the hell is Mitch McConnell?
Plus, Karel discusses The End of Oak Street—and why its real horror has nothing to do with dinosaurs.
Read the New York Times report:
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/08/17/climate/lake-powell-record-low-colorado.html
Support The Karel Cast:
https://patreon.com/reallykarel
Watch, like and subscribe:
https://youtube.com/reallykarel
The Karel Cast streams live Monday through Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Pacific and is available through Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Spreaker, TikTok and Instagram.
Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer based in Las Vegas with his service dog, Ember.
#KarelCast, #WesternWaterCrisis, #LakePowell, #LakeMead, #ColoradoRiver, #LasVegas, #Nevada, #WaterShortage, #Drought, #ClimateCrisis, #AmericanWest, #WaterConservation, #Trump, #DonaldTrump, #TrumpNews, #USPolitics, #AmericanPolitics, #PoliticalCommentary, #PoliticalPodcast, #Congress, #Republicans, #GOP, #MitchMcConnell, #Midterms, #CostOfLiving, #ForeignPolicy, #CurrentEvents, #TheEndOfOakStreet, #MovieReview, #ReallyKarel
https://youtube.com/live/k7piy4SjPdg


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-karel-show--1368295/support.

The Karel Show is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel and streams live Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST. Available on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Apple Music, Spotify, iHeart Media, Spreaker, and all major platforms.

Why Americans Defend the Indefensible: Trump, Billionaires & Corporate Power
Why do so many Americans defend corporations, billionaires and political leaders whose actions may work against their own interests?
After discussing how corporate power is damaging everyday life in America, Karel was stunned to see viewers rush to defend the corporations. California remains deeply divided over taxing billionaires. Donald Trump repeatedly crosses boundaries that once seemed politically disqualifying—yet his supporters continue to defend him.
Have we reached a point where no action is beyond defense? And why do people increasingly attack proposed solutions, the people offering them and even their motivations?
Karel also examines America’s literacy crisis. According to the 2023 PIAAC assessment, approximately 56% of U.S. adults ages 16–65 scored at Level 2 or below, while 28% scored in the lowest category. These proficiency levels do not translate directly into school-grade reading levels, but the results still raise serious questions about education, critical thinking, media literacy and political decision-making.
Are powerful interests manipulating an uninformed public—or have Americans become willing participants in their own exploitation?
Support The Karel Cast:
https://patreon.com/reallykarel
Watch, like and subscribe:
https://youtube.com/reallykarel
The Karel Cast streams live Monday through Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Pacific and is available on Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Spreaker, TikTok and Instagram.
Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer based in Las Vegas alongside his service dog, Ember.
#TheKarelCast, #Karel, #DefendingTheIndefensible, #DonaldTrump, #TrumpNews, #TrumpSupporters, #CorporateAmerica, #CorporateGreed, #Billionaires, #TaxTheRich, #WealthInequality, #AmericanPolitics, #USPolitics, #PoliticalCommentary, #PoliticalPodcast, #ProgressivePolitics, #CurrentEvents, #BreakingPolitics, #MediaLiteracy, #AdultLiteracy, #EducationCrisis, #CriticalThinking, #EconomicInequality, #CorporatePower, #Democracy, #AmericanSociety, #PoliticalAnalysis, #SocialCommentary, #LasVegas, #ReallyKarel
https://youtube.com/live/BAkDhg_xY6Y


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-karel-show--1368295/support.

The Karel Show is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel and streams live Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST. Available on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Apple Music, Spotify, iHeart Media, Spreaker, and all major platforms.

LGBTQ Rights Worldwide: UN Honors Advocates as Senegal Arrests 72 Men | This Gay Week
LGBTQ rights are making headlines worldwide. Scott Jacobsen of The Good Men Project joins Karel live from Ukraine for a new edition of “This Gay Week,” examining major stories affecting LGBTQ+ people and communities around the globe.
In this episode:
The United Nations honors five people for their extraordinary service.
Senegal arrests 72 men accused under laws targeting same-sex activity.
Long Beach, California, moves ahead with plans for a new Pride-themed float.
Karel and Scott examine more LGBTQ news, human-rights developments and stories from around the world.
Join the conversation in the comments: Where are LGBTQ rights advancing—and where are they most at risk?
Support The Karel Cast at https://patreon.com/reallykarel.
Watch live Monday through Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Pacific. Please like, subscribe and turn on notifications at https://youtube.com/reallykarel.
The Karel Cast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Spreaker, TikTok and Instagram.
Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer based in Las Vegas, alongside his beloved service dog, Ember.
#ThisGayWeek, #LGBTQ, #LGBTQNews, #LGBTQRights, #GayNews, #QueerNews, #HumanRights, #UnitedNations, #UN, #Senegal, #SenegalNews, #Africa, #Ukraine, #UkraineNews, #LongBeach, #LongBeachCA, #CaliforniaNews, #Pride, #PrideNews, #GlobalNews, #WorldNews, #ScottJacobsen, #TheGoodMenProject, #Karel, #TheKarelCast, #ReallyKarel, #GayRights, #Equality, #CivilRights, #LGBTQCommunity
https://youtube.com/live/6yNi6L2kCxU



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-karel-show--1368295/support.

The Karel Show is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel and streams live Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST. Available on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Apple Music, Spotify, iHeart Media, Spreaker, and all major platforms.

94 Major Wildfires Are Burning Across the West—Is This the New Normal?
The Western United States is facing a dangerous wildfire crisis. Crews are fighting to protect Big Sur, three fires are burning near Reno with single-digit containment, and 94 large wildfires remain uncontained across the West as of August 11, 2026.
From the Northwest and Northern Rockies to California, Nevada and the Southwest, extreme heat, dry conditions and expanding fire activity threaten communities, public health and the environment. Wildfire smoke can travel hundreds of miles, while the economic and human costs continue to mount.
What can America do to prevent these disasters? Can better land management, climate action and community preparation make a meaningful difference—or must we adapt to wildfires as the West’s new normal?
Then, after 24 years on the air, a Bay Area radio host has been laid off. His scathing Facebook post captures the troubling state of today’s broadcasting industry. Who killed local radio—and why are experienced local voices disappearing?
Support The Karel Cast at patreon.com/reallykarel. Please watch, like and subscribe at youtube.com/reallykarel.
The Karel Cast streams Monday through Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Pacific and is available on Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Spreaker, TikTok and Instagram.
Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer based in Las Vegas with his service dog, Ember.
#WesternWildfires, #Wildfires, #CaliforniaWildfires, #BigSurFire, #RenoFires, #NevadaWildfires, #WildfireSeason, #WildfireSmoke, #ClimateChange, #ExtremeHeat, #BreakingNews, #USNews, #CaliforniaNews, #NevadaNews, #PacificNorthwest, #NorthernCalifornia, #SouthernCalifornia, #AirQuality, #ClimateCrisis, #NaturalDisasters, #EmergencyPreparedness, #Firefighters, #NewNormal, #LocalRadio, #BayAreaRadio, #RadioIndustry, #MediaNews, #TheKarelCast, #ReallyKarel, #KarelCast
https://youtube.com/live/WhcAzTPgXf0


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-karel-show--1368295/support.

The Karel Show is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel and streams live Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST. Available on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Apple Music, Spotify, iHeart Media, Spreaker, and all major platforms.

Can America Survive This Divided? The United States Isn’t United Anymore
America isn’t simply divided into left versus right anymore. We’re splintering into smaller and smaller tribes—and increasingly, those groups don’t just disagree with each other. They don’t even seem to want to coexist.
A New York Times article about the “atomization” of America captures something happening across the country: the United States may still be united on a map, but socially, politically and culturally, we’re becoming a nation of isolated groups living completely different realities.
On today’s Karel Cast, we ask the uncomfortable question: Can the United States survive without a shared sense of “us”?
Because democracy requires disagreement—but it also requires people who disagree to believe they’re still part of the same country.
Then, a longtime Bay Area radio personality loses his job and raises another question I’ve been asking for years: Did radio die, or did giant corporations kill it? Consolidation transformed American broadcasting, local personalities disappeared, stations became increasingly automated and homogenized, and audiences went elsewhere. Was radio’s decline inevitable—or was an incredible medium systematically dismantled in pursuit of bigger profits and lower costs?
And finally, something much more personal.
Yesterday I went to a camera store, and I realized how genuinely happy these places make me. Cameras, lenses, lights, microphones—the tools of filmmaking, photography and storytelling. Being surrounded by creativity reminds me why I fell in love with media in the first place.
We spend so much time talking about what’s wrong with America that maybe we should also ask ourselves:
Where is your happy place?
Tell me in the comments. I genuinely want to know.
THE KAREL CAST
The Karel Cast is live Monday through Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Pacific and available across YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Spreaker and other major streaming platforms.
❤️ Support independent media and The Karel Cast:
patreon.com/reallykarel
📺 Watch, LIKE and SUBSCRIBE:
youtube.com/reallykarel
Follow Karel on TikTok and Instagram @reallykarel.
Karel is a history-making broadcaster, entertainer, author and recording artist based in Las Vegas, joined frequently by his little service girl, Ember.
#KarelCast, #Karel, #AmericaDivided, #DividedAmerica, #AmericanPolitics, #PoliticalPolarization, #AmericanCulture, #UnitedStates, #USPolitics, #Democracy, #AmericanDemocracy, #PoliticalDivision, #SocialDivision, #CultureWars, #America2026, #USNews, #CurrentEvents, #NewsCommentary, #PoliticalCommentary, #IndependentMedia, #TalkRadio, #RadioIndustry, #RadioIsDead, #CorporateMedia, #MediaConsolidation, #Broadcasting, #SanFranciscoRadio, #Photography, #Filmmaking, #FindYourHappyPlace
https://youtube.com/live/A01Y2RFlLqA


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-karel-show--1368295/support.

The Karel Show is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel and streams live Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST. Available on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Apple Music, Spotify, iHeart Media, Spreaker, and all major platforms.