PodcastTwitter
The Lean to the Left Podcast
Hosted by Bob Gatty · EN
Welcome, Thoughtful Americans
If you're concerned about the future of our democracy, social justice, human rights, the environment, healthcare, or political extremism, you belong here at Lean to the Left.
Hosted by veteran journalist and political commentator Bob Gatty, Lean to the Left delivers sharp progressive commentary, timely political analysis, engaging interviews, and conversations with fascinating guests — from authors, activists, and political insiders to everyday people with extraordinary stories.
No scripts. No corporate spin. No sugarcoating.
Just independent journalism, honest discussion, a little humor, and the occasional dose of sarcasm.
Now in its sixth year, the Lean to the Left podcast grew out of the LeantotheLeft.net blog, launched in 2017 in response to Donald Trump’s attacks on democratic institutions, the mainstream press, and basic political norms. Since then, the show has continued to challenge misinformation, expose political hypocrisy, and speak out against extremism and division in American politics.
Bob Gatty brings decades of experience to the microphone as a journalist, communications executive, and former congressional chief of staff and press secretary for both Republican and Democratic members of Congress. He is also co-author of the three-volume series, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump’s Attack on America’s Greatness.
Whether you're looking for expert insight, progressive perspectives, political commentary, or thought-provoking conversations, Lean to the Left offers smart, independent content for listeners who care about what’s happening in America — and what we can do about it.
Subscribe today and join the conversation.
Visit us at leantotheleft.net
Lean to the Left Podcast: podcast.leantotheleft.net
44episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Is the FBI Targeting Dissent in America? Are We in a Police State?
Apr 1900:30:15Tap to summarizeIs the FBI being used to target political dissent in America? Is Trump creating a police state in America?In this revealing interview, retired FBI agent Eric Robinson joins Lean to the Left to expose what’s really happening inside federal law enforcement—and how political pressure may be shaping investigations.Robinson, who served 24 years in the FBI—including work tied to January 6 cases—offers a rare insider perspective on:+ Trump-era directives targeting “left-wing dissent”+ The truth about Antifa investigations+ How FBI priorities shift under different administrations+ First Amendment concerns and law enforcement limits+ The reality of January 6 cases inside the Bureau+ Why the Epstein case represents a major failure of justiceHe also shares his remarkable personal journey—from Baptist minister to FBI SWAT team member—and how his experiences reshaped his views on faith, justice, and America.This is a candid, thought-provoking conversation you won’t hear anywhere else.CHAPTERS:00:00 Welcome and Setup00:23 FBI Training Local Police03:22 How Directives Reach Field07:20 Two FBIs Explained08:53 January 6 Case Fallout10:47 Notable Cases and BLM Fraud14:22 From Pastor to FBI16:12 Faith Deconstruction and Family20:45 Epstein Files and Accountability22:23 Book Announcement and Release26:35 Beard Rules and SWAT Story28:04 Wrap Up and Thanks👉 Subscribe for more interviews that focus on substance, not sensationalism.
Transcribe →
What if Elections are Rigged Before You Even Vote?
Apr 1900:20:21Tap to summarizeWhat if Elections are Rigged Before You Even Vote? We're not talking about Trump's actions designed to curtail voting from non-supporters or the Democrats' efforts to increase voting from their likely supporters. We're talking about the system itself.On this episode of Lean to the Left, host Bob Gatty speaks with entrepreneur and reform advocate Tom Joseph to explore a bold, outside-the-box solution that could fundamentally change how candidates are chosen—and who really holds power in our elections. It's a system intended to make the nominating process fair for all, regardless of party affiliation.Joseph introduces Wilson’s Fountain and the Main Street Party, a technology-driven initiative designed to:• Put voters—not party insiders—in control• Eliminate backroom deals in candidate selection• Challenge gerrymandering and political gridlock• Open the door to true competition in every districtAt the heart of his idea is a powerful concept:👉 “The people are the whip.”Instead of politicians controlling the system, this model flips the script—giving everyday Americans the power to evaluate candidates, shape nominations, and demand accountability.But can it actually work?And more importantly… will the political establishment ever allow it?🎧 Watch the full conversation and decide for yourself. 🔔 Subscribe & Stay Engaged👉 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for bold conversations, political insight, and solutions that challenge the status quo.👉 New episodes weekly. 💬 Join the ConversationDo you think the two-party system is broken?Could a system like this actually work?Drop your thoughts in the comments 👇 🔗 Learn More🌐 Main Street Party: https://mainstreetparty.orgCHAPTERS:0:00 – Is the Two-Party System Broken?1:12 – Meet Tom Joseph & The Big Idea3:45 – What Is Wilson’s Fountain?6:20 – Rethinking How Candidates Are Chosen9:10 – “The People Are the Whip” Explained12:05 – How the Main Street Party App Works15:40 – Giving Voters Real Power18:25 – The Role of Students & Tech Innovation21:10 – Fighting Gerrymandering24:30 – Resistance from the Political Establishment27:15 – Can This Actually Work?30:05 – What Happens Next?32:10 – Final Thoughts: A New Path Forward
Transcribe →
Can Democrats Win in Red States? The Dixie Dems Take on Southern Politics
Apr 600:44:23Tap to summarizeIs the South really as “red” as it seems—or is something shifting beneath the surface? Can Democrats actually win in red states with the right strategy?In this powerful episode of Dixie Dems, host Bob Gatty is joined by co-hosts Arthur Hill (North Carolina Democratic Party leader) and Robert Thompson (Georgia-based podcaster) to explore the evolving political landscape across the South.🎙️ Special Guest: Grace CowanFounder, organizer, and co-host of the Frogmore Stew podcast, Grace shares how grassroots efforts in South Carolina are challenging the status quo—even in heavily gerrymandered districts.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why Democrats are running candidates in every single South Carolina state legislative district—even the toughest ones--for the first time in many years.How gerrymandering has shaped Southern politics—and how activists are pushing backThe strategy behind forcing “safe seat” politicians to actually competeWhy grassroots organizing could reshape the South’s political futureThe importance of messaging, identity, and voter engagementWhat’s next for South Carolina and the broader Southern political landscape💡 Key Takeaway:Progress doesn’t only come from winning elections—it comes from showing up, organizing, and refusing to concede entire communities.👉 Subscribe for more progressive conversations:Lean to the Left Podcast👉 Listen to more Dixie Dems episodes:https://podcast.leantotheleft.net👉 Follow & Support the Movement:Your voice matters—especially in the South.CHAPTERS:00:00 Welcome to Dixie Dems01:23 Hair Talk Cold Open02:46 Run Every Seat Strategy04:57 North Carolina Playbook06:45 Expose Gerrymandering08:44 Voting Rights Crackdown10:43 Disruptor Ads Approach11:37 Annie Andrews vs Graham14:52 Democrats Need Branding19:44 Sanford and Mace Drama21:04 South Carolina Governor Race22:00 Candidate Scandal Fallout22:47 Jermaine Johnson Stays In24:00 Building the Party Bench25:08 Name Recognition Matters28:16 Training Candidates Basics29:30 Gerrymandering Workarounds31:17 Straight Ticket Voting Tricks33:38 Trump Mail Voting Hypocrisy36:20 MAGA Media Silo Explained37:34 Voting by Class Debate41:03 Frogmore Stew Podcast Plug43:52 Wrap Up and Thanks
Transcribe →
He Promised Peace Now Americans are Dying
Mar 2800:01:24Tap to summarizeMillions of Americans are marching in “No Kings” rallies across the country—and for good reason.In this commentary, Bob Gatty breaks down the growing gap between Donald Trump’s campaign promises and today’s reality, including a new conflict with Iran that has already cost American lives.This isn’t just politics—it’s about accountability, democracy, and the future of the country.👉 Subscribe to Lean to the Left👉 Join the conversation👉 Share this episode#NoKings #Trump #Politics #Democracy #Protests
Transcribe →
Laura VanWormer: Who's Worse? Nixon vs Trump?
Feb 2300:27:56Tap to summarizeRichard Nixon came within a gnats eyelash of being impeached over the Watergate scandal, but ended up resigning instead. Despite some of his positive achievements, he is generally considered a bad president. But what about Trump? Is he worse?In this episode of Lean to the Left, host Bob Gatty is joined by novelist and podcaster Laura VanWormer, creator of the serialized audio fiction podcast Class of ’74.The conversation explores the dynamics of political power through a compelling comparison of Donald Trump and Richard Nixon, with VanWormer offering a provocative take on why Nixon—despite his flaws—represented a more functional form of leadership.Laura also shares her deeply personal journey following a devastating car accident that forced her to step away from writing novels—and how that loss unexpectedly gave rise to Class of ’74, a podcast that blends 1970s nostalgia, political backdrop, and soap-opera storytelling into a modern audio experience enjoyed by listeners around the world.This episode is a reflection on:• Political leadership and historical perspective• Resilience after personal tragedy• Podcasting as a new literary frontier• Humor as a survival tool in dark political timesThoughtful, funny, and deeply human, this conversation is a reminder of the enduring power of storytelling—and the importance of laughter when confronting history and the present moment.👉 Subscribe for more conversations on politics, culture, and the people shaping how we understand them.👉 Like & share if you believe stories still matter.CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Lean To the Left00:29 Comparing Trump and Nixon01:00 Introducing Laura VanWormer01:13 Laura's High School Reunion and Podcast01:55 Weather and Small Talk03:13 Details About the Class of 74 Podcast09:00 Laura's Personal Story and Accident11:45 The Impact of Laura's Podcast13:20 Writing and Voices13:38 Trump vs. Nixon14:12 Nixon's Environmental and Media Policies15:21 Nixon's Downfall and Resignation16:33 Personal Reflections on Nixon Era17:09 Nixon's Draft and Popularity20:32 Comparing Nixon and Trump21:25 High School Memories and Politics23:34 Teenagers and Social Media25:26 Books and Writing Career26:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Transcribe →
Echoes of Injustice: Trump and the Legacy of Guantanamo Bay
Feb 100:32:01Tap to summarizeGuantanamo 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 matterThis 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 Podcast00:10 Trump's Immigration Policies and Guantanamo Bay01:03 Guest Introduction: Joshua Colangelo Bryan01:21 The Legal Battle and Personal Bond16:28 Current State of Guantanamo and Immigration Policies19:21 Broader Implications and Political Commentary22:30 Discussion on Venezuela and Foreign Policy29:01 Closing Thoughts and Book Information
Transcribe →
The Power of States: Environmental Health Policy and Action
Jan 2600:22:52Tap to summarizeIn 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 changeKaplan 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🎧 Subscribe to Lean to the Left for more conversations on progressive politics, climate, and social justice👍 Like, comment, and share to support independent progressive mediaAmazon book Link: https://amzn.to/4acwEsyNOTE: 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 Podcast00:20 Meet Susan Kaplan: Environmental Health Expert01:34 The History of Environmental Protection in the US03:46 State-Level Environmental Health Policies05:16 Challenges and Solutions in Environmental Protection08:17 Local Government's Role in Environmental Health09:31 Practical Tips for Individuals11:43 Encouraging Local Government Action15:03 Best Practices and Case Studies17:03 Susan Kaplan's Career Journey19:12 Current Issues and Final Thoughts20:40 Where to Find Susan's Book22:12 Conclusion and Optimism for the Future
Transcribe →
Dixie Dems Podcast: Amplifying Progressive Politics in the South
Jan 1700:29:14Tap to summarizeWelcome 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 GeorgiaAs 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 Dems00:39 Meet Our Special Guest: Robin Biro01:57 Venezuela and US Military Strategy06:56 Political Climate in Georgia08:20 Marjorie Taylor Greene and Upcoming Elections12:26 South Carolina Political Landscape15:21 Balancing Life and Politics15:56 Campaign Strategies and Fundraising17:18 Political Landscape in South Carolina18:37 Republican Party Fractures20:01 Trump's Controversial Election Ideas22:18 Protests and Police Shootings27:14 Healthcare System Failures28:43 Closing Remarks and Farewells👍 Like, subscribe, and share to support independent progressive media.🎧 Listen to more episodes at LeanToTheLeft.net
Transcribe →
Mullins McLeod: Fighting Political Corruption in the Deep South | Lean to the Left Podcast
Jan 1100:48:57Tap to summarizeSouth 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 leadershipMcLeod 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 #BobGattyCHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest00:14 Mullins McLeod's Background and Legal Career00:46 The Arrest Incident and Campaign Transparency01:33 Motivation for Running for Governor01:59 Addressing Political Corruption in South Carolina03:13 Servant Leadership and Legal Achievements05:12 Economic Issues and Livable Wage07:09 Political Corruption and Power Companies09:47 Family Legacy and Public Service11:31 Housing Market and AI Concerns21:44 Healthcare and Medicaid Expansion24:22 Republican Candidates and Trump26:33 Political Corruption and Oil Exploitation28:23 Trump and Political Blame Game29:55 Economic Inequality and Political Corruption34:58 The Arrest Incident and Legal Battle45:36 Campaign Vision and Funding48:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Transcribe →
How Small Actions Spark Big Social Change in a Broken System
Jan 600:31:03Tap to summarizeIn 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.👍 Like🔔 Subscribe💬 Share your thoughts in the commentsCHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction: The Urgency of Social Change00:31 Meet the Author: Michael Brownstein01:12 The Motivation Behind the Book02:34 From Scholarly Work to Public Engagement04:49 The Need for Structural Change08:07 Individual Actions and Social Influence14:45 Challenges in American Politics18:29 Loyalty to Trump: Analyzing the Phenomenon25:54 Trump's Impact on Climate Change Efforts28:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Transcribe →