The Lean to the Left Podcast

Guantanamo Bay was once described as housing the “worst of the worst.” But what if that's a lie?

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty is joined by human rights attorney Joshua Colangelo-Bryan, special counsel at Human Rights First and author of "Through the Gates of Hell: American Injustice at Guantanamo Bay".

Joshua has spent more than two decades challenging the injustices of Guantanamo Bay. He explains how fear-driven narratives allowed indefinite detention, torture, and the erosion of due process—and why those same tactics are now being repurposed in immigration policy.

We discuss:

• The true legacy of Guantanamo Bay

• How demagoguery targets immigrants and minorities

• The use of cruelty as political theater

• Parallels to Japanese American internment

• Why empathy and the rule of law still matter

This conversation is a sobering reminder of what happens when executive power goes unchecked—and why human stories are essential to defending democracy.

📘 Through the Gates of Hell is available through major retailers and local bookstores.

🎧 Listen, subscribe, and join the conversation at Lean to the Left.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:10 Trump's Immigration Policies and Guantanamo Bay

01:03 Guest Introduction: Joshua Colangelo Bryan

01:21 The Legal Battle and Personal Bond

16:28 Current State of Guantanamo and Immigration Policies

19:21 Broader Implications and Political Commentary

22:30 Discussion on Venezuela and Foreign Policy

29:01 Closing Thoughts and Book Information

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty talks with environmental health lawyer, professor, and author Susan Kaplan about how states are leading the way on environmental health policy. Drawing from her book, A Healthy Union: How States Can Lead on Environmental Health, Kaplan explains how state-level innovation has produced effective, evidence-based policies that protect public health while reducing costs.

🔍 What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why federal environmental protections have eroded — and what states are doing instead

• How states act as “laboratories of innovation” for environmental health

• The growing role of local governments, school boards, and city councils

• How everyday environmental choices affect public health

• Why collective community action can drive lasting change

Kaplan highlights successful policies from states like Massachusetts, New York, and Texas, along with regional collaborations that prove environmental protection and economic efficiency can go hand in hand.

🌱 This conversation is a hopeful reminder that progress is possible — and often starts close to home.

📘 Learn more about Susan Kaplan’s work and her book A Healthy Union

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Amazon book Link: https://amzn.to/4acwEsy

NOTE: Susan Kaplan is offering listeners ands viewers of this podcast a 20% discount on the price of her book. To obtain that discount visit www.islandpress.org and use the code word: UNION.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Lean to the Left Podcast

00:20 Meet Susan Kaplan: Environmental Health Expert

01:34 The History of Environmental Protection in the US

03:46 State-Level Environmental Health Policies

05:16 Challenges and Solutions in Environmental Protection

08:17 Local Government's Role in Environmental Health

09:31 Practical Tips for Individuals

11:43 Encouraging Local Government Action

15:03 Best Practices and Case Studies

17:03 Susan Kaplan's Career Journey

19:12 Current Issues and Final Thoughts

20:40 Where to Find Susan's Book

22:12 Conclusion and Optimism for the Future

Welcome to Dixie Dems, the monthly roundtable from the Lean to the Left Podcast focused on progressive politics across the South.

Host Bob Gatty (South Carolina) is joined by Arthur Hill, Vice Chair of the Brunswick County (NC) Democratic Party, and Robert Thompson, a bold progressive voice from Georgia.

Our special guest this episode is Robin Biro—a South Carolina native, Army Ranger veteran, former campaign director for the Barack Obama campaign, and longtime political commentator on Fox News and Newsmax.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Trump’s influence on U.S. military and foreign policy, including Venezuela and oil politics

• Concerns about political retaliation within the armed forces

• Georgia’s evolving political landscape, including the Senate race and figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene

• South Carolina’s gubernatorial race, featuring Mullins McLeod and Dr. Jermaine Johnson

• Fractures inside Southern Republican parties—and opportunities for Democrats

• Veterans’ voices in politics and the risks facing democratic institutions

• Social justice, ICE accountability, systemic racism, and protest movements

• A powerful firsthand story exposing healthcare inequities in Georgia

As Trump looms over upcoming elections and Southern politics continue to shift, Dixie Dems remains committed to honest conversation, accountability, and progressive action.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Dixie Dems

00:39 Meet Our Special Guest: Robin Biro

01:57 Venezuela and US Military Strategy

06:56 Political Climate in Georgia

08:20 Marjorie Taylor Greene and Upcoming Elections

12:26 South Carolina Political Landscape

15:21 Balancing Life and Politics

15:56 Campaign Strategies and Fundraising

17:18 Political Landscape in South Carolina

18:37 Republican Party Fractures

20:01 Trump's Controversial Election Ideas

22:18 Protests and Police Shootings

27:14 Healthcare System Failures

28:43 Closing Remarks and Farewells

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🎧 Listen to more episodes at LeanToTheLeft.net

South Carolina is a hotbed of political corruption, but Mullins McCleod, Democratic candidate for governor, says he's fighting against it and the Palmetto State could be on the brink of transformation.

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, McLeod, a Charleston attorney, also addresses his May disturbing the peace arrest when he was found walking the streets at night shirtless, and police say, in his boxer shorts.

McLeod says he did nothing wrong, that his behavior resulted from the stress of preparing for his campaign and the affect of taking Adderall for a long period of time. His attorneys are seeking to have the charges dropped.

A fourth-generation public servant, McLeod lays out a bold vision in the interview for a government that works for the people — not wealthy donors or corporate interests.

🔥 What We Cover:

• The fight against corruption and donor-driven politics

• Why South Carolina still has no minimum wage

• The economic and ethical risks of unchecked AI expansion

• The dangers of for-profit decision-making in healthcare and housing

• His commitment to transparency — including upcoming disclosure about his arrest

• How grassroots donors can reshape political leadership

McLeod argues that South Carolina deserves servant leadership, fair wages, and an accountable public system — and he’s ready to take on entrenched interests to make that happen.

🎧 Listen now and decide if Mullins McLeod is the voice of change South Carolina has been waiting for.

👉 Subscribe for more interviews, commentary, and perspectives on politics and democracy.

#SouthCarolina #SCPolitics #MullinsMcLeod #LeanToTheLeft #Democracy #PoliticalCorruption #MinimumWage #GrassrootsPower #BobGatty

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

00:14 Mullins McLeod's Background and Legal Career

00:46 The Arrest Incident and Campaign Transparency

01:33 Motivation for Running for Governor

01:59 Addressing Political Corruption in South Carolina

03:13 Servant Leadership and Legal Achievements

05:12 Economic Issues and Livable Wage

07:09 Political Corruption and Power Companies

09:47 Family Legacy and Public Service

11:31 Housing Market and AI Concerns

21:44 Healthcare and Medicaid Expansion

24:22 Republican Candidates and Trump

26:33 Political Corruption and Oil Exploitation

28:23 Trump and Political Blame Game

29:55 Economic Inequality and Political Corruption

34:58 The Arrest Incident and Legal Battle

45:36 Campaign Vision and Funding

48:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty sits down with Michael Brownstein, co-author of "Somebody Should Do Something", to explore how individual actions—often dismissed as insignificant—can ignite meaningful, systemic social change.

At a time when Americans feel overwhelmed by climate change, racial injustice, economic inequality, and threats to democracy, Brownstein challenges the idea that only institutions or powerful leaders can make a difference. Instead, he introduces “both-and” thinking: the idea that personal choices and collective action are not opposites—but partners.

From voting and social influence to community organizing and combating misinformation, this conversation digs into how small, visible actions can ripple outward, shaping norms, inspiring others, and building momentum for real reform. Brownstein also addresses political polarization, loyalty to authoritarian figures, and how despair can be broken through connection and shared purpose.

This episode is a powerful reminder that change doesn’t start “somewhere else”—it starts with people who decide to act -- and that's especially important in this era of Donald Trump and his apparent desire to be dictator of the world.

📘 "Somebody Should Do Something" is available via Amazon at https://amzn.to/499oO2p and independent bookstores, with an audio edition coming soon.

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CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: The Urgency of Social Change

00:31 Meet the Author: Michael Brownstein

01:12 The Motivation Behind the Book

02:34 From Scholarly Work to Public Engagement

04:49 The Need for Structural Change

08:07 Individual Actions and Social Influence

14:45 Challenges in American Politics

18:29 Loyalty to Trump: Analyzing the Phenomenon

25:54 Trump's Impact on Climate Change Efforts

28:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

What is the impact of the USAID shutdown as thee United States abruptly walked away from global humanitarian aid?

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty speaks with former senior USAID official Clifford Brown about the far-reaching consequences of the Trump administration’s decision to dismantle the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

Brown, who left a lucrative legal career to serve in public service, shares firsthand accounts from his work in Kenya, Guatemala, Honduras, West Africa, and post-Soviet states. He explains how USAID programs provided food security, healthcare, and economic opportunity—and how their abrupt termination has contributed to increased suffering, instability, and migration pressures.

The conversation explores:

• Why the shutdown of USAID was celebrated by some Trump administration officials who enjoyed a big sheet cake—and devastating for millions who because of their actions would have very little to eat

• The real-world consequences of ending global health and development programs

• The moral and political challenges of democracy-building abroad

• Corruption, cultural conflict, and the limits of foreign intervention

• Why restoring USAID matters for America’s global credibility

Brown also discusses his book, Inside USAID: An Odyssey of Foreign Assistance, a deeply personal account of the triumphs and failures of U.S. foreign aid.

🎙️ Subscribe to Lean to the Left for in-depth conversations on politics, policy, and the real human impact of government decisions.

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CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction: The Heinous Act of Defunding USAID

01:09 Guest Introduction: Clifford Brown's Journey

02:16 The Impact of USAID's Elimination

02:52 Clifford's Career and Experiences

06:45 Global Consequences of Defunding USAID

10:17 Humanitarian Crises and USAID's Role

18:35 Challenges in Promoting Democracy

20:48 Controversial Topics and Personal Stories

26:04 Clifford's Book and Final Thoughts

As the holidays approach, the Dixie Dems take a step back—and a clear-eyed look forward—at a Southern political landscape that’s shifting in surprising ways.

In this special holiday episode, Bob Gatty (South Carolina), Arthur Hill (North Carolina), and Robert Thompson (Georgia) share season’s greetings while digging into what’s ahead for Democrats in the South as 2026 comes into view.

🎄 In this episode, we discuss:

• Georgia’s increasingly competitive governor’s race and growing Democratic momentum
• North Carolina’s political crossroads and the lasting legacy of Democratic leadership
• Surprising new polling in South Carolina that could spell trouble for longtime GOP incumbents
• Why Democrats must reclaim their history of progress, fairness, and opportunity

The holidays may be a time for reflection—but the Dixie Dems are clear: the South has a voice, and it’s getting bluer.

What makes a lifelong conservative rethink everything—and cross the political divide from Republican to Democrat? Why would a Marine switch from being a life-long Republican to join the Democrats and dump Trump's GOP?

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty sits down with Carl Able, retired Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant, founder of Crayon Box Politics, and co-host of the Crayon Box Weekly podcast, to explore his powerful journey from Republican to Democrat.

Carl explains how a deep review of party platforms—and a reckoning with human rights issues like healthcare, reproductive freedom, immigration, and LGBTQ+ rights—led him to conclude that the modern Republican Party no longer reflected his values. What followed was not just a change in party registration, but a complete political realignment grounded in principle and clarity -- to the point where Able plans to run for Congress from North Carolina, as a Democrat.

Drawing on his Marine Corps experience, Carl discusses leadership, critical thinking, and the danger of political tribalism. He also explains the mission behind Crayon Box Politics, an initiative designed to cut through political noise and make government processes understandable for everyday Americans.

Commenting on the current controversy over Defense Secretary Hegseth reportedly ordering a second strike to kill two sailers clutching to their bombed out fishing boat, Abel says the order was illegal and that he would not have followed it.

Looking ahead, Carl shares his plans for an AI-powered civic education tool and his goal of running for Congress in North Carolina’s 3rd District in 2028, focused on veterans’ issues, coastal protection, and economic opportunity.

This conversation is a call to engagement, courage, and honest dialogue—proof that political growth is possible, and necessary, in a polarized America.

🎙️ Subscribe to Lean to the Left for more conversations that challenge assumptions and spark progress.

🌐 Podcast.LeanToTheLeft.net

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Welcome to Lean to the Left Podcast

00:09 Meet Carl Able: From Marine to Political Advocate

00:46 Carl's Political Journey: From Republican to Democrat

01:52 Challenges and Realizations in Political Alignment

04:55 Reception in Democratic Circles

07:42 Key Issues: Human Rights and Healthcare

12:49 Military Service and Its Impact on Views

16:45 Controversial Orders and Military Ethics

20:35 Political Fractures and Future Aspirations

25:02 Crayon Box Politics: Mission and Vision

28:50 Carl's Political Ambitions and Future Plans

31:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this powerful episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty sits down with filmmakers Babette Hogan and Julie Eisenberg to discuss their searing documentary, Running for the Mountains.

Filmed over 15 years, Running for the Mountains exposes the deep entanglement between greed, politics, and environmental sacrifice in West Virginia, revealing how extractive industries have shaped public policy at the expense of human health and democratic accountability. Hogan and Eisenberg share firsthand stories of resistance, risk, and resilience—from arrests and threats to building trust within communities often ignored by the national media.

The conversation digs into:

• How corporate power influences environmental and energy policy

• The weaponization of patriotism to justify environmental harm

• The outsized political role of West Virginia figures like Joe Manchin

• The personal and political cost of documenting environmental injustice

This episode is a must-watch for anyone concerned about climate justice, political accountability, and the real human cost of deregulation. Running for the Mountains is currently available on Amazon Prime and Kanopy.

👉 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for in-depth conversations that challenge power, expose injustice, and inspire action.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Lean to the Left Podcast

00:18 Meet the Filmmakers: Babette Hogan and Julie Eisenberg

01:52 The Story Behind 'Running for the Mountains'

02:34 Challenges and Risks in Filmmaking

07:51 Political Landscape and Environmental Impact

09:43 The Role of Patriotism and National Politics

12:19 Joe Manchin's Influence and National Implications

16:23 Environmental Devastation in West Virginia

20:32 Film Distribution and Accessibility

21:45 Personal Reflections and Future Plans

25:26 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

Artificial intelligence is transforming our world—but not always for the better. In this urgent episode of Lean To the Left, we explore how AI is fueling a disturbing rise in digital sexual exploitation, including the creation and distribution of child sexual abuse materials.

Our guest, Roger Canaff—former New York City special victims prosecutor, author, educator, and survivor—shares his unparalleled insight into how predators are weaponizing AI to manipulate innocent images, evade detection, and create explicit content without consent.

He also exposes the failures of tech companies, the challenges in our legal system, and the critical need for better enforcement and oversight.

We discuss:

✅ How AI-generated imagery is changing the landscape of exploitation

✅ The legal and ethical challenges facing lawmakers and prosecutors

✅ Why tech companies aren’t doing enough

✅ The role of parents, communities, and policy in prevention

✅ Signs of hope—and the growing movement toward education and reform

This is a difficult but essential conversation. By understanding the threat, we can work together to protect vulnerable children, support survivors, and demand accountability from those who shape our digital world.

Guest: Roger Canaff – Legal expert, advocate, and survivor

Learn more about Roger's work at https//rogercanaff.com

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CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:03 Roger Canaff's Journey and Motivation

02:24 AI and Sexual Exploitation

06:09 The Role of Social Media and Tech Companies

09:09 Legal and Legislative Efforts

12:12 Parental and Societal Responsibilities

13:33 Trauma Responses and Victim Support

18:45 Justice 3D and Training Initiatives

23:42 Roger Canaff's Books and Contact Information

25:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts