Laura Flanders and Friends: Solutions-Focused Progressive Perspectives on Politics, News, and Culture - podcast cover

Laura Flanders and Friends: Solutions-Focused Progressive Perspectives on Politics, News, and Culture

Laura Flanders, Curious Communicationswww.lauraflanders.org
Uncensored history meets bold voices with Laura Flanders, award winning journalist and author. The show explores actionable models for creating a better world by reporting on the people and movements driving systemic change. We spotlight the solutions of tomorrow, today. The show airs on PBS stations in over 300 US markets, and airs on 60+ community radio stations via PRX Exchange and Pacifica, and is available on YouTube and here as a podcast. Subscribers receive lots of video and audio web exclusives in addition to the weekly episode. Recent field reports and specials include: Jimmy Carter; 60th Anniversary of Selma Bloody Sunday March; Bernie Sanders' Fighting Oligarchy; Labor Movement vs. Fascism: Worker Organizers & Teachers Under Attack; And interviewee highlights include Award Winning Actor, Director, Writer, Liev Schreiber on his documentary "Meeting Zelensky"; Award winning journalists Maria Hinojosa (Award Winning Suave Podcast and host of Latino USA) & Chenjerai Kumanyika (Award Winning Podcast Series Empire City) on Forced Removals, Foreign Detention, the War on Education & Free Speech; Democracy & Capitalism: A Failed Experiment? with Bloomberg Economist & host of Truponomics, Stephanie Flanders; Masha Gessen & Jason Stanley on fascism then and now; Naomi Klein & Astra Taylor on the arc of history and “End Times Fascism”; Congressman Jamie Raskin on Donald Trump, Elon Musk, DOGE, and congressional oversight of the executive branch."
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Episodes

Mainstream Media's Blind Spot: Lessons from Claud Cockburn on the Rise of Nazism (uncut - rewind)

Description: Mainstream media has a lot to account for in 2024, but go back 90 years, and prestigious publications have often failed to see when things were so clearly wrong. In 1930s Germany, many journalists downplayed Adolf Hitler’s ascension to power, with the New York Times writing “There is no warrant for immediate alarm…The more violent parts of his alleged program he has himself in recent months been softening down or abandoning.” But one young British journalist who, seeing what was hap...

Mar 07, 20251 hr 3 min

The People v. DOGE: Jamie Raskin’s Strategy to Combat the Musk & Trump Power Grab

Maryland Congressman Jamie Raskin outlines his strategy to hold the executive branch accountable and shares his concerns about Trump and Musk's actions in a candid conversation. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: Amidst a hail of executive orders, lay-offs, and threats, Americans are witnessing both early compliance by some of the most powerful institutions in the country, and ...

Mar 05, 202529 minEp. 148

The People v. DOGE: Jamie Raskin’s Strategy to Combat the Musk & Trump Power Grab (Full Conversation)

As Trump and Musk push the limits of power, Rep. Jamie Raskin explains how Congress plans to exert oversight and defend democracy in an exclusive interview. Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. Become a supporting member at https://LauraFlanders.org/Donate This show is...

Feb 28, 202547 min

Police Violence Against Latinos: The Shocking Data We Now Know

La Raza Database Research Project is bringing awareness to police violence against Latinos. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: You wouldn’t know it from the data, but Latinos are the second most likely demographic to be killed by law enforcement in the U.S, relative to their population. We only have these statistics now thanks to the work of La Raza Database Research Project, a...

Feb 26, 202529 minEp. 147

The Truth About America's "Wood Basket": Why the U.S. South is Losing Its Forests

The forest industry is booming in the American South, but communities like those in the Carolinas are raising concerns about the environmental and social costs. Discover their innovative solutions and what it means for sustainability. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Full Episode Description: The forest industry in the American South is booming, but at what cost? According to some governm...

Feb 19, 202529 minEp. 146

Full Uncut Conversation- Brittons Neck Community Forest: Climate Resilience & Reparations

Synopsis: A new environmental justice training center is transforming a former South Carolina plantation into a hub of climate resilience and equity. Learn how local leaders are pioneering change in the US South's logging narrative. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Full Conversation: The forest industry in the American South is booming, but at what cost? According to some government leade...

Feb 14, 202544 min

What Happens After a Prison Shuts Down? A Report from Rural Craigsville, Virginia

Episode Synopsis: What is the fate of Craigsville, Virginia after a prison closed in the small, rural town? We’re envisioning the future of Craigsville and investigating how decarcerating the economy can become a win for all. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: What happens to a small town when a prison shuts down? The Augusta Correctional Center employed many residents and brou...

Feb 12, 202530 minEp. 145

Los Angeles Wildfires: BIPOC Media Are Telling Stories Other Media Aren’t (broadcast edition)

Beyond the flames, L.A. communities face long-term challenges from gentrification and loss. Join our "Meet the BIPOC Press" panel as local journalists explore the environmental and social impacts of recent fires. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Full Episode Description: In times of crisis, people need their questions answered, fast. As residents impacted by the recent Los Angeles fires r...

Feb 05, 202529 minEp. 144

Full Conversation- Los Angeles Wildfires: BIPOC Media Are Telling Stories Other Media Aren’t

Residents returning to Los Angeles face critical questions on health, safety, and recovery following devastating fires – hear from frontline BIPOC journalists on the ground. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Full Conversation: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our supporting members and podcast subscribers the full uncut c...

Jan 31, 202530 min

The Escalation of Violence: A Warning from the Front Lines in Homegrown Documentary

Join us for a timely conversation with filmmaker Michael Premo on the escalation of potential for violence and the path forward following Trump's pardons of Jan. 6 Capitol rioters . This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Full Episode Description: Just hours after he took office, Donald Trump issued pardons for over 1,500 people convicted of crimes related to the storming of the U.S. Capitol on ...

Jan 29, 202528 minEp. 143

Full Conversation: Inside the MAGA Movement: What Happens Now?

Discover filmmaker Michael Premo's insights on political violence in his documentary about right-wing groups and their diversity, featuring pardoned Proud Boy Christopher Quaglin. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! About the LF&F Full Uncut Conversations: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our supporting members and podc...

Jan 24, 202539 min

“Love In A F*ed-Up World”: Dean Spade’s Self-Help Book for Movements

Explore the timely insights from activist Dean Spade on how reshaping our personal connections can bolster our fight for justice, as featured in his latest book, "Love in a F*cked Up World." This show is made possible thanks our members! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: In a time of climate catastrophe, genocide, mass incarceration and political turmoil, people need to work together – better! That’s why lifelo...

Jan 22, 202529 minEp. 142

Full Conversation- “Love In A F*cked-Up World”: Dean Spade’s Self-Help Book for Movements

In "Love in a F*cked Up World," Dean Spade shares insights on fostering relationships and activism in the face of global crises—find out more about his approach to solidarity now! This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: In a time of climate catastrophe, genocide, mass incarceration and political turmoil, people need to work together – better! That’s why lifelong activist Dean Spade ...

Jan 21, 202537 min

Jimmy Carter’s Vision for Peace, Palestine & the Planet: A Legacy Under Attack?

Join us as we delve into the complex remembrance of Jimmy Carter, from his pivotal energy policies to international diplomacy, at his funeral reflections with diverse voices. This show is made possible thanks our members! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: What is being left out of the conversation when it comes to Jimmy Carter, and why are many of his significant achievements under attack today? He created a na...

Jan 15, 202528 minEp. 141

Illinois Ends Cash Bail: What the Nation Can Learn from This Historic Win

**Historic Change in Illinois: Cash Bail Eliminated Statewide** Explore the implications of the groundbreaking Pretrial Fairness Act as experts discuss its impact on racial equity and justice reform. This show is made possible thanks our members! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: What happened when Illinois ended cash bail? As Laura’s guests explain, this deeply discriminatory and unjust system puts “a ransom o...

Jan 08, 202529 minEp. 140

Full Conversation- Illinois Successfully Ends Cash Bail: Why Is No One Talking About It?

Explore the history and impact of Illinois' decision to end cash bail statewide in 2023, featuring insights from key advocates and policymakers involved in this monumental change. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: What happened when Illinois ended cash bail? As Laura’s guests explain, this deeply discriminatory and unjust system puts “a ransom on people’s heads,” disproportion...

Jan 03, 202534 min

13 Years After Occupy, How Do We Address Economic Inequality Today? (rewind)

Reflecting on the Occupy movement's 13th anniversary: A deep dive into its impact on democracy, economic inequality, and the ongoing fight against the wealth gap. (episode originally released September 11, 2024) This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: Were you one of the hundreds of thousands of people on the streets during the Occupy movement? For many the movement was a political ...

Jan 01, 202529 minEp. 139

From Protests to Art Shows: How Genesis Be’s Journey Highlights the Spirit of Collaboration (episode rewind)

Dive into compelling stories of triumph, art, and activism as key voices reflect on changing Mississippi's state flag history. (episode originally aired June 5, 2024) This show is made possible by you! Our year end goal is to raise $50,000, and we are half way there. To become a member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: In a time of division, how do we create a sense of collective freedom? It’s a question that peace activist, artist and poet...

Dec 25, 202429 minEp. 138

Barbara Lee & Lateefah Simon: The Trailblazing Congresswomen of CA’s 12th District

Meet the New Leaders of California's 12th District:** Newly elected Democrat Lateefah Simon joins veteran Congresswoman Barbara Lee in a powerful conversation about minority representation and the fight for reproductive rights, housing, and immigration reform—how will they inspire change in a Republican-controlled Congress? This show is made possible by you! Our year end goal is to raise $50,000, and we are half way there. To become a member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for y...

Dec 18, 202429 minEp. 137

Audio Exclusive – From College to Career: The Impact of ALPFA on First-Generation Students

Here at Laura Flanders & Friends, we offer a comprehensive fellowship program in collaboration with the City University of New York (CUNY) John Jay School of Criminal Justice. Participants work hands-on, gaining knowledge about our independent movement media operation producing our TV, radio and podcast productions. Throughout the program our entire staff spends time with each fellow, sharing expertise and knowledge from editing to scripting to promotions and technical skills. We mentor our ...

Dec 17, 20249 min

Full Conversation- Barbara Lee & Lateefah Simon: The Trailblazing Congresswomen of CA’s 12th District

Description: If anyone can inspire the public about the role of the minority in Congress, the women of California’s 12th district can. In this charming conversation, newly-elected Democrat, Lateefah Simon, joins the indomitable veteran Barbara Lee, whose congressional seat Simon will be taking when the new Congress convenes. Republicans will control the House and Senate, the White House, and dominate the Supreme Court, but Simon says she’s fired up to “fight for what we’ve fought for” in the are...

Dec 13, 202446 min

Maysoon Zayid: Comedy of Resistance, Disability, Difference & Palestine

Join Maysoon Zayid as she discusses humor, disability rights, and the resilience of Palestinian identity during a conversation filled with heart and laughter amid conflict. This show is made possible by you! Our year end goal is to raise $50,000, and we are half way there. To become a member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: Israel’s US-backed war on Gaza has been a mass disabling event. Today’s guest says we must create a “viable, accessib...

Dec 12, 202429 minEp. 136

Full Conversation- Maysoon Zayid: Comedy of Resistance, Disability, Difference & Palestine

Description: Israel’s US-backed war on Gaza has been a mass disabling event. Today’s guest says we must create a “viable, accessible future” for the disabled Palestinians we have failed. Maysoon Zayid is a comedian, Princeton Fellow, and unapologetic voice for both disability rights and Palestinian identity. A fierce advocate with cerebral palsy, Zaid proves that the most powerful messages often come from unexpected places and are filled with laughter. She’s lost tens of thousands of dollars of ...

Dec 06, 202439 min

The Edutainment Approach of Amanda Seales: Enlightening Matters from Hollywood to Civil Rights

Discover how Amanda Seales combines comedy and activism to address social justice challenges in Hollywood. This show is made possible thanks our members! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Our year end goal is to raise $50,000. Thank you for your continued support! Description: What does it take to be politically outspoken in Hollywood? You may know Amanda Seales from her role on HBO’s “Insecure”, her stand-up comedy, her podcast and radio show or her viral vide...

Dec 04, 202429 minEp. 135

BIPOC Media Answers the Call: Community Action After Hurricane Helene

Amid chaos following Hurricane Helene, hear how BIPOC journalists redefine community engagement by addressing urgent needs in western North Carolina. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: Some residents had no food, electricity, or cell service after Hurricane Helene ravaged the western part of North Carolina in October. Amidst misinformation and no information, local media had to...

Nov 27, 202429 minEp. 134

Full Conversation- BIPOC Media Answers the Call: Community Action After Hurricane Helene

Description: Some residents had no food, electricity, or cell service after Hurricane Helene ravaged the western part of North Carolina in October. Amidst misinformation and no information, local media had to step in to inform desperate people fast. This month on “Meet the BIPOC Press”, we explore what media outlets did to serve their people in that moment. Laura and co-host Amir Khafagy, a journalist with the New York City-based publication Documented, speak with two local BIPOC media projects ...

Nov 22, 202437 min

Patrick & Claud Cockburn: A Legacy of Guerilla Journalism Against Media Complacency

Discover how Claude Cockburn's guerrilla journalism foresaw the rise of fascism in the 1930s and challenged mainstream media narratives. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: Mainstream media has a lot to account for in 2024, but go back 90 years, and prestigious publications have often failed to see when things were so clearly wrong. In 1930s Germany, many journalists downplayed ...

Nov 20, 202429 minEp. 133

Full Conversation- Patrick & Claud Cockburn: A Legacy of Guerilla Journalism Against Media Complacency

Description: Mainstream media has a lot to account for in 2024, but go back 90 years, and prestigious publications have often failed to see when things were so clearly wrong. In 1930s Germany, many journalists downplayed Adolf Hitler’s ascension to power, with the New York Times writing “There is no warrant for immediate alarm…The more violent parts of his alleged program he has himself in recent months been softening down or abandoning.” But one young British journalist who, seeing what was hap...

Nov 15, 20241 hr 3 min

Where Do We Go From Here? Frontline Activists Talk Election ‘24 Takeaways

Discover the perspectives of influential advocates on what lies ahead for voters, communities, and democratic engagement after a transformative election season. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to https://LauraFlanders.org/donate Thank you for your continued support! Description: Tens of millions of Americans cast their ballots in one of the most divisive elections in our lifetime, but what happens next? What are the teachings and takeaways from this historic p...

Nov 14, 202428 minEp. 132

Full Conversation- Where Do We Go From Here? Frontline Activists Talk Election ‘24 Takeaways

Descpription: Tens of millions of Americans cast their ballots in one of the most divisive elections in our lifetime, but what happens next? What are the teachings and takeaways from this historic presidential race, as well as critical local races and ballot initiatives? Laura Flanders & Friends presents an exclusive post-election roundtable discussion, featuring analysts and perspectives you won’t find in the money media. They include Guerline Jozef, a Haitian-American human rights advocate...

Nov 13, 202434 minEp. 132
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