Hot Mics From Left To Right - podcast cover

Hot Mics From Left To Right

Two Squared Media Productionswww.spreaker.com
Go behind the scenes with two of CNN’s leading commentators and fan favorites
as they discuss what they didn’t have time to get on air but is badly needed
conversation at an unprecedented time of partisanship and politics. Alice
Stewart and Maria Cardona have a unique ability to bring hot topics of
conversation to the fore, with respect, civility and intellectual honesty. Each
week, the “Hot Mics from Left to Right” duo will discuss the intersection of politics
and culture to give listeners a better understanding of where and how they have
come to their beliefs, offering a much needed view of a deeper perspective on
lifestyle and values and how they impact politics. Hot Mics will wrap with some
warm words of inspiration.
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Episodes

State of the Union - Food Fight Edition and May the Force be With You

Maria and Alice break down President Biden's State of the Union address and the ensuing heckling from vocal Republican members of Congress. Did the president make the case for his accomplishments or did it fall short? Plus- the controversy over the notion that Republicans plan to sunset Social Security and Medicare. And - the lying Congressman George Santos has yet another claim of deceiving people. Is it time for him to step aside? In this week's Meaningful Moment, Alice and Maria share feedbac...

Feb 10, 202331 min

The Old and New of Washington: Documents, Debt and a returning GOP Chairman

Maria and Alice discuss the ongoing drip, drip, drip of classified documents turning up here, there, and everywhere. Former Vice President Mike Pence is the latest high level leader to turn over documents. He joins President Biden and former President Trump under scrutiny for mishandling classified documents. The National Archives now says it's time for all past presidents and vice presidents to search for documents. And President Biden touts strong economic numbers while Republicans fight to cu...

Jan 27, 202330 min

Washington is fired up: Documents, Deception and "De-Ranged"

Alice and Maria discuss the many questions surrounding President Biden's alleged mishandling of classified documents. Is the White House being transparent? How does this differ from the probe involving former President Donald Trump and the documents found at Mar-a-Lago? And calls from both sides of the aisle for Congressman George Santos to step down due to his many lies concerning his background. Plus - Washington is on fire about a suggestion to ban gas stoves. Some say "keep your hands off my...

Jan 13, 202334 min

Is Sen. Sinema an IINO? (Independent in Name Only)

Maria and Alice break down the impact of AZ Sen. Kyrsten Sinema's decision to change her party registration from Democratic to Independent. Was this about the current political climate, or her political future? They weigh in on the Georgia Senate runoff election and the GOP battle for speaker of the House. They also discuss the newly formed Facts First organization, designed to respond to the actions of the Republican-led House of Representatives. In this week's Meaningful Moment, the two talk a...

Dec 12, 202235 min

Mind Your Midterm Manners

Maria and Alice discuss the best ways to break bread with your family and friends without breaking any spirits. Do you avoid politics altogether? Do you agree to disagree? And what does the runoff election in Georgia mean for both parties moving forward. Plus, amidst the tragic shooting at a nightclub in Colorado, a hero emerges, saving untold number of lives. In this week’s meaningful moment, Alice and Maria share inspiring words of gratitude and thanks from Oprah Winfrey.

Nov 23, 202235 min

The Midterm Election Countdown: Who is Voting and Why?

With just days until the 2022 Midterm elections, Alice and Maria discuss the massive early voting numbers and what party is taking an early lead. The two also discuss the key issues motivating voters across the country. Is it the economy, abortion, crime, or voting rights? In this week's Meaningful Moment, Maria and Alice share powerful words to remind us of the value of your vote.

Nov 04, 202233 min

It's the Gas Prices, Stupid

With just over two weeks until the midterm elections, Alice and Maria talk about the rising impact of gas prices on the electorate. Will the pain at the pump drive voters away? And what are the top of mind issues for voters? Is it the economy, inflation, crime, abortion? Plus- a judge orders former President Donald Trump to turn over emails relating to his bogus claims of election fraud in 2020. And in this week's Meaningful Moment, Maria and Alice talk about how you can choose to be happy and h...

Oct 24, 202229 min

Hurricane Ian: The Damage, The Devastation, and the Desire to Help

Alice and Maria talk about the massive devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Ian. They discuss the efforts to rescue people, restore power, and remain safe in the aftermath. In this week's Meaningful Moment, they call for listeners to help those impacted by the storm. Maria calls attention to the Puerto Rican relief efforts through the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) and sends those interested in helping to: lulac.org\prrelieffund and Alice points to this site to help those ...

Sep 29, 202232 min

Crisis at the Border moves North

Maria and Alice discuss the controversy surrounding border Governors bussing and flying migrants to Northern cities. What is the political fallout. And - why did Sen. Lindsey Graham bring abortion back into the spotlight. Also- President Biden says the pandemic is over and inflation is under control, but many are skeptical. In this week's Meaningful Moment, the two share inspiring quotes in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month and from John F. Kennedy

Sep 24, 202235 min

Battle for the Soul of our Nation - Or is it?

Alice and Maria discuss President Biden's speech to the nation and his reference to MAGA Republicans. Why is there an effort to divide the GOP? And the two discuss the impact of Donald Trump on the midterm elections. In this week's Meaningful Moment, they both share words of inspiration from the great tennis legend Serena Williams.

Sep 02, 202231 min

No Apologies for the Student Loan Forgiveness - But Plenty of Criticism

Alice and Maria break down President Biden's plan to cancel student debt for millions of people across the country. What are the political and legal questions that arise from this historic announcement? And the first major referendum of Roe v. Wade is put to the test in New York and abortion rights come out on top. Plus a new poll shows voters are concerned about threats to democracy and our economy. In this week's Meaningful Moment, Maria and Alice share inspiring words from actress Viola Davis...

Aug 28, 202234 min

No Apologies for the Student Loan Forgiveness - But Plenty of Criticism

Alice and Maria break down President Biden's plan to cancel student debt for millions of people across the country. What are the political and legal questions that arise from this historic announcement? And the first major referendum of Roe v. Wade is put to the test in New York and abortion rights come out on top. Plus a new poll shows voters are concerned about threats to democracy and our economy. In this week's Meaningful Moment, Maria and Alice share inspiring words from actress Viola Davis...

Aug 28, 202234 min

Biden's BFD, Cheney's Last Stand, and Mar-A-Lago

Maria and Alice discuss details of the recently passed Infrastructure Reduction act. Will the $700 billion dollar package actually reduce inflation or is it simply a climate change and health care spending plan. Also, Wyoming Congresswoman Liz Cheney loses her battle for re-election, but vows to continue the war to keep Trump out of the white house. And the Mar-A-Lago raid is raising concern on both sides: Why did Trump have these documents at his home and why did federal agents conduct the raid...

Aug 17, 202236 min

The Kansas-Abortion Test and a Midterm preview with Special Guest New Democrat Network Founder Simon Rosenberg

Maria and Alice are joined by the man Politico has billed as the "oracle of Democratic midterm optimism," Simon Rosenberg weighs in on what he sees as a potential blue wave in November. The founder of New Democrat Network has been reading the political tea leaves and sees a bright future for democrats, even with the low presidential poll numbers and inflation concerns. The podcast duo also looks at the fallout of the Kansas abortion vote and how it may motivate voters through the fall. In this w...

Aug 06, 202235 min

Supreme Debate over the Supreme Court Ruling on Roe

Maria and Alice discuss the impact of the landmark Supreme Court ruling in the Dobbs case that overturns Roe v. Wade. The abortion and pro-life debate is emotional, didfficult, and often very divisive. Alice and Maria are on opposing sides of this controversy and respectfully share their views on what this means, now that abortion policy is now in the hands of elected state leaders. Also- they discuss the bombshell House Select Committee testimony highlighting former President Trump's behavior o...

Jul 06, 202241 min

Trump's GOP Peer Pressure on Full Display and Gun Talks Moving Along

Alice and Maria discuss the mounting testimony in House Select Committee hearings on January 6th indicating former President Trump's pressure on election officials to change the outcome of the 2020 election. High level GOP elections officials stand firm on their commitment to the constitution. And bi-partisan talks are slowly moving along to produce meaningful legislation to combat gun violence. In this week's Meaningful Moment, we hear words of inspiration from Brene Brown and Angela Davis.

Jun 23, 202233 min

Is Former President Trump Detached from Reality? Hot Mics special guest Michael Zeldin

Maria and Alice are joined by special guest attorney and legal analyst Michael Zeldin to discuss the testimony to date in the January 6th committee hearings. The three break down testimony of former President Trump's inner circle referring to the former president as being "detached from reality" on election night 2020. The discussion also raises questions about the basis of fundraising for legal fees related to election denials. Is it criminal, or simply unethical? And will this impact voters in...

Jun 14, 202231 min

The Uvalde Shootings: Thoughts and Prayers Are Not Enough - It's Time for Change

Alice and Maria discuss the tragic mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas in which 19 students and two teachers lost their lives. They talk about the emotional toll on those impacted, the insufficient law enforcement response, and the need for political consensus to make meaningful reforms to curtail gun violence. Please listen, like and share with those who appreciate civil discourse on the news of the day.

Jun 02, 202236 min

Choice v. Life: The Big Battle over Roe v. Wade

Maria and Alice discuss the bombshell news of the leaked draft Supreme Court opinion dealing with the controversial Roe v. Wade case. The draft opinion would overturn Roe v. Wad and the right to have an abortion. Alice and Maria break down the discussion along the legal, political and moral lines. This is an emotional discussion filled with talk and tears that you don't want to miss. Please listen, like, and share.

May 06, 202236 min

No Mickey Mousing Around - Culture Wars Are in Full Swing

Maria and Alice discuss the intense debate between Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Walt Disney World over the controversy surrounding the Parental Rights in Education bill, aka, "Don't Say Gay" bill. The ensuing culture war pits supporters of the LGBTQ community against those who support parental rights in education. A similar battle is brewing in Michigan where one state senator strongly defended herself after being accused by a colleague of "grooming" and sexualizing children. And in this we...

Apr 24, 202236 min

Special Guest: CNN Political Commentator Karen Finney on the historic confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the U.S. Supreme

Fresh off the White House grounds celebrating the confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to United States Supreme Court, CNN Political Commentator and Democratic Consultant Karen Finney joins Maria and Alice to discuss the historic nature of the newest member of the high court. Karen says "Amen" to Judge Jackson quoting Maya Angelou who said "I am the dream and the hope of a slave." Maria and Karen discuss their efforts on "Winning with Black Women" which worked to shape and drive the messa...

Apr 09, 202232 min

Crisis in Ukraine: Special Guest CNN Global Affairs Analyst Kimberly Dozier

CNN Global Affairs Analyst Kimberly Dozier joins Alice and Maria to discuss the latest on negotiations between Russia and Ukraine and the possible reduction of forces The former visiting Fellow at the Observer Research Foundation and Time Magazine Contributor talks about the impact of President Biden's comments regarding Putin: "For God's sake, this man cannot remain in power" and how that is perceived by the Russian leader and powers around the world. They also discuss the unmistakable resolve ...

Mar 30, 202228 min

The Supreme Court HERstory of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson with special guest Elie Honig

CNN Senior Legal Analyst and former federal prosecutor Elie Honig joins Alice and Maria to discuss the historic Supreme Court confirmation process of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. Elie talks about the legal background of Judge Jackson and her experience that makes her uniquely qualified to sit on the high court if confirmed. He also discusses the questions she has faced on her judicial philosophy by members of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Please listen, like, and share this episode of Hot Mics...

Mar 23, 202234 min

General Spider Marks the Spot on the War in Ukraine

General James "Spider" Marks joins Maria and Alice to share his knowledgeable, harsh, and honest assessment of what he calls the "bone-headed operation" being executed by Russian President Vladimir Putin in Ukraine. Gen. Marks is a CNN Military Analyst and former Commanding General, U.S. Army Intelligence Center and senior intelligence officer for the 2003 liberation of Iraq. The wartime veteran talks about the dangerous military invasion in Ukraine, the impact of U.S. sanctions, the four elemen...

Mar 10, 202240 min

War is Hell and Ukraine Needs Help

Maria and Alice discuss the catastrophic developments with the Russian invasion of Ukraine. As Ukrainian President Voldymyr Zelenskyy makes an urgent plea for help, the United States and our allies are united in efforts to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin and his deadly reign of terror. In this week's Meaningful Moment, Alice and Maria share words of inspiration from President Zelenskyy as he demonstrates leadership in a time of crisis.

Mar 07, 202235 min

Potential War in Europe and Parental War in Education

Maria and Alice discuss the critical efforts underway by President Biden and our NATO allies to prevent war in Europe as Russian President Vladmir Putin threatens to invade Ukraine. And the debate continues over the recall election to oust three members of the San Francisco School Board. Parents are outraged over the lack of focus on re-opening schools in the COVID era. Plus - former President Donald Trump is facing more legal woes, what does this mean for the midterm elections and his decision ...

Feb 20, 202235 min

Self-Inflicted Wounds of the GOP and Joe Rogan

Instead of taking on the Biden team, Republicans are taking on the home team. Alice and Maria discuss the recent actions within the GOP that may add some wind to the sails of Democrats in the midterm elections. And - podcast giant Joe Rogan is under fire yet again for controversial language. First it was COVID, now the n-word. And in this week's meaningful moment, Maria and Alice share words of inspiration from Olympic heroes.

Feb 08, 202236 min

The High Court and High Dollars

Maria and Alice discuss the retirement of Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer and President Biden's commitment to appointing the first Black female to the High Court. Plus, former President Trump is raising massive amounts of money and talking about his plans if he's re-elected. Talk of pardoning January 6th protestors is being met with mixed reviews. In this week's meaningful moment, in an honor to Black History Month, Alice and Maria share words of inspiration from Nelson Mandela and Maya Ang...

Feb 02, 202234 min

Presidential Pivot or was it a Divot?

Maria and Alice discuss President Biden's big news conference as he marks one year in the White House. While touting his accomplishments, did he raise other concerns? Plus the Arizona Democratic Party censures Senator Sinema, what will that mean for her? Also- Alice and Maria share mean tweets and some that are nice. In this week's Meaningful Moment, they share words of inspiration from the late rocker Meatloaf.

Jan 23, 202234 min

A Bunch of Bad Days for Biden

Maria and Alice discuss the bad week for the Biden administration, with major setbacks on voting legislation, vaccine rules, and the economy. Maria focuses on the administration accomplishments and says there are better days ahead. Alice believes his low polling numbers will benefit Republicans in the midterm elections. And will the GOP opt out of future general election Presidential debates? Plus - In this week's Meaningful Moment, we hear messages from the Peacock drama "Yellowstone" and the D...

Jan 17, 202233 min
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