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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
Impact of USAID Shutdown: Let Them Eat Cake
Jan 600:30:17Tap to summarizeWhat 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 credibilityBrown 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.👉 Stay informed. Speak up. Join the conversation.CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction: The Heinous Act of Defunding USAID01:09 Guest Introduction: Clifford Brown's Journey02:16 The Impact of USAID's Elimination02:52 Clifford's Career and Experiences06:45 Global Consequences of Defunding USAID10:17 Humanitarian Crises and USAID's Role18:35 Challenges in Promoting Democracy20:48 Controversial Topics and Personal Stories26:04 Clifford's Book and Final Thoughts
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The Dixie Dems: A Progressive Voice in the South During the Holidays
Dec 2300:23:38Tap to summarizeAs 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 momentumNorth Carolina’s political crossroads and the lasting legacy of Democratic leadershipSurprising new polling in South Carolina that could spell trouble for longtime GOP incumbentsWhy Democrats must reclaim their history of progress, fairness, and opportunityThe holidays may be a time for reflection—but the Dixie Dems are clear: the South has a voice, and it’s getting bluer.
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From Republican to Democrat: A Marine Dumps Trump's GOP
Dec 1500:34:11Tap to summarizeWhat 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.netCHAPTERS:00:00 Welcome to Lean to the Left Podcast00:09 Meet Carl Able: From Marine to Political Advocate00:46 Carl's Political Journey: From Republican to Democrat01:52 Challenges and Realizations in Political Alignment04:55 Reception in Democratic Circles07:42 Key Issues: Human Rights and Healthcare12:49 Military Service and Its Impact on Views16:45 Controversial Orders and Military Ethics20:35 Political Fractures and Future Aspirations25:02 Crayon Box Politics: Mission and Vision28:50 Carl's Political Ambitions and Future Plans31:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Running for the Mountains|How Corporate Power Sold Out the Environment
Dec 700:26:06Tap to summarizeIn 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 injusticeThis 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 Podcast00:18 Meet the Filmmakers: Babette Hogan and Julie Eisenberg01:52 The Story Behind 'Running for the Mountains'02:34 Challenges and Risks in Filmmaking07:51 Political Landscape and Environmental Impact09:43 The Role of Patriotism and National Politics12:19 Joe Manchin's Influence and National Implications16:23 Environmental Devastation in West Virginia20:32 Film Distribution and Accessibility21:45 Personal Reflections and Future Plans25:26 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts
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Carter's Peaceful Path vs. Trump's Self-serving Agenda
Dec 31, 202400:03:48Tap to summarizeThe passing of former President Jimmy Carter, recognized by many as one of the most virtuous leaders in American history, brings into stark relief the contrasting legacy of the convicted felon Donald J. Trump, who is set to resume office on January 20. As we reflect on the lives and careers of these two leaders, the differences between them raise questions of values, integrity, and legacy.Jimmy Carter: A Lifetime of Service and PeaceJimmy Carter, despite criticisms from his single term as President, spent the better part of five decades after his time in office dedicating himself to humanitarian efforts and advocacy for world peace. His charitable work, including building homes for the underprivileged through Habitat for Humanity and his vigorous peacemaking efforts, earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. Unlike many before and after him, Carter shunned lucrative opportunities that other former presidents embraced, choosing instead to live simply and serve selflessly.In a 2018 interview, Carter revealed, “I don’t see anything wrong with that. I don’t blame other people for doing it. It just never had been my ambition, it just never had been my ambition to be rich.” It’s a statement that encapsulates his humble approach, markedly different from that of Donald Trump.Carter’s presidency saw significant achievements like the passage of the Panama Canal Treaties and the establishment of the U.S. Departments of Energy and Education, the latter of which now face eradication under Trump’s administration. Trump says he wants to take over the Panama Canal.[caption id="attachment_8805" align="alignleft" width="182"] Available at https://amzn.to/3BUiaiH[/caption]It was Jimmy Carter who famously promised never to lie to the American people. Contrast that with Trump, whose lies and misrepresentations have reached into the thousands and continue to this day.Donald Trump: Wealth and PowerFor Donald Trump, the presidency has often seemed a bid to amplify his wealth and influence, with his time in office marred by controversies and legal battles. A federal appeals court recently upheld a sex abuse verdict against him, a striking coincidence in timing with Carter’s noble passing. Trump’s presidency has been characterized by policies that favor big business and corporate interests, contrary to Carter’s dedication to equitable service.His commercial endeavors extend even into the spiritual, with the sale of expensive religious memorabilia and exclusive access to prayer sessions for the affluent, illustrating a stark contrast to Carter’s modest sense of duty.The Legacy of Carter versus TrumpThe life stories and presidencies of Jimmy Carter and Donald Trump illustrate two divergent paths of American leadership. Carter's simple refusal of “Hail to the Chief” and his grassroots community service highlight a humility often absent in modern politics. Trump’s anticipated return to the presidency, however, brings back into focus a personality that has been accused of exploiting power for personal gain.As Jimmy Carter is laid to rest beside his lifelong companion, Rosalind, the country mourns the loss of a true public servant and a hero to many. In stark contrast, Donald Trump’s impending second term brings renewed concerns about ethics, governance, and the direction of American values. This juxtaposition poses a profound reflection on what it means to lead with dignity and purpose.00:00 Carter's Legacy vs. Trump's Verdict00:19 Carter's Post-Presidency Contributions00:42 Trump's Return and Carter's Final Rest01:06 Carter's Humility vs. Trump's Wealth01:54 Carter's Humanitarian Efforts02:10 Carter's Achievements and Trump's Plans02:40 Carter's Faith vs. Trump's Greed03:07 A Tale of Two Presidents03:23 Conclusion: A Hero and a Felon
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Solar Solutions for the Home: Saving Money and the Planet
Dec 28, 202400:44:45Tap to summarizeWe're in the dead of winter, but the sun still shines and soon the days will grow longer as spring draws near. Will you be tempted to invest in solar energy for your home? I invite you to check out this interview with solar expert Randy French, founder of Independent Solar in Arizona, as we discuss the potential benefits and challenges involved with solar. And, if you like it, please consider subscribing and leaving a comment. Hitting the like button would be great, too!So, join us on the Lean to the Left podcast as we delve into the benefits and complexities of solar solutions for the home, and how you can benefit by saving both money and the planet. Host Bob Gatty discusses his own solar panel experience with Randy French and learn how solar energy can lead to substantial financial savings, increase your home value, and contribute to environmental sustainability. This episode covers factors like cost efficiency, export rates, and incentives, while also addressing such potential challenges as HOA regulations and resale of solar-equipped homes. Whether you're considering solar for financial reasons, environmental concerns, or both, this podcast offers valuable insights to help you make informed decisions.CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Lean to the Left Podcast00:09 Why Invest in Solar Energy?01:04 Meet Randy French: Solar Energy Expert01:21 The Rising Cost of Electricity03:40 Benefits of Going Solar05:40 Understanding Solar Savings16:29 Federal and State Incentives for Solar21:38 Can Solar Panels Be Installed on Any Roof?23:06 Solar System Durability in Extreme Weather23:37 Navigating HOA Regulations for Solar Installations25:19 Selling a Home with a Financed Solar System29:58 Understanding Net Energy Metering30:35 The Future of Solar: Federal Mandates and Utility Companies35:56 The Importance of Backup Power for Solar Systems39:08 Solar Efficiency in Low-Sunlight Regions40:21 Final Thoughts on Going SolarAbout Bob Gatty A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time. Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.As we continue to explore pressing social issues, I encourage everyone to share their stories and experiences. Your voice matters!"DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.
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Christmas with Donald Trump
Dec 26, 202400:01:39Tap to summarizeWith the holiday season upon us, the conversation surrounding politics and its impact on everyday Americans becomes even more poignant.An article by The Washington Post sheds light on a group of low-income Trump voters who are now faced with the unexpected consequences of their voting decisions. Among them is a woman who, due to financial constraints, relies on a bicycle to grocery shop because affording car repairs is beyond her reach. Her monthly income is comprised of $1,200 in food stamps and Social Security, supporting both herself and her teenage son.A Misguided VoteThis Trump voter, a former Democrat, believed that his presidency would bring about positive changes—cheaper groceries and gas, a more favorable economy. However, his focus on cutting federal spending tells a different story. Programs at risk include Medicaid, food stamps, veterans health care, the Affordable Care Act, federal housing assistance, opioid treatment and drug development initiatives, domestic violence programs, Head Start, among others.The promises of prosperity and improved financial circumstances ring hollow as Trump’s administration prepares to cut critical benefit programs. For those voters who supported him in hopes of change, there’s an unsettling realization: their vote may not have been in their best interest. The stark contrast between the lavish million-dollar fundraisers for Trump’s affluent supporters and his average voter’s struggle to afford basic necessities emphasizes the chasm between promise and reality.The Harsh Truth of Economic PoliciesAs Trump celebrates with his wealthy supporters, perhaps enjoying champagne at opulent Mar-a-Lago, many of his voters face harsher choices—like deciding between food or toilet paper on trips to Walmart. The disconnect between expectations and actions raises an important question: Is this outcome truly what they envisioned when they voted?Election decisions carry profound impacts, with voter expectations sometimes clashing sharply with political realities. For Trump voters now facing the potential loss of vital benefits, it should be a sobering lesson in understanding the true implications of political promises. As the holiday season fades into Trump’s Jan. 20 inauguration and the first days of his presidency, the challenge for many will be contending with the impact of policies that contradict their own needs and interests.CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction: Low Income Trump Voters’ Dilemma00:34 Trump’s Spending Cuts: What’s on the Chopping Block?00:56 The Impact of Trump’s Policies on His Voters01:04 Conclusion: The Reality of Voting Against Self-InterestAbout Bob GattyA former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time. There are now more than 700 episodes available on YouTube and the major audio podcast channels.Please check out our new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump’s Attack on America’s Greatness, co-written with Lean to the Left star writer CJ Waldron. The book is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24, Digital version $3.99. Here’s a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZThanks for your support.
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Trump's Conflicts of Interest & Plans for Personal Gain
Dec 23, 202400:08:18Tap to summarizeTrump's Conflicts of Interest & Plans for Personal GainDonald Trump is more than a month away from returning to the White House and he’s already cooking up plans selling out the American people, satisfying his big money donors to the detriment of public safety, the environment, and more.Meanwhile, If you enjoy this commentary, please like and subscribe! We have many more thought-provoking discussions and guest interviews lined up that you won't want to miss.Last May, candidate Trump reportedly told oil industry executives that if they donated $1 billion to his campaign, he would get rid of troublesome federal regulations designed to support clean energy and conserve the environment.What happened? Well, he didn’t get $1 billion, but oil industry interests contributed $75 million to his election effort. Now, over 100 manufacturing and business groups have sent him a letter urging an end to Biden administration regulations on pollution, worker safety, consumer protection and more, claiming the rules are “strangling” the nation’s economy. They want what they paid for.Trump has promised to rollback climate funding contained in the Infrastructure Reduction Act, once again pull out of the Paris Climate Accord, and boost American oil and natural gas production. He’ wants to ditch federal support for offshore wind projects, claiming that windmills kill birds and spoil the view.But it’s not just the battle against climate change that will suffer from the grifter-in-chief’s money grubbing actions. Not by a long shot. Tune in to understand the implications of Trump's financial ventures on his presidency and national interests.CHAPTERS:00:00 Trump's Pre-Inauguration Plans to Sell Out America00:22 Oil Industry Influence and Environmental Rollbacks01:48 Elon Musk and Car Safety Regulations02:50 Conflicts of Interest in Trump's Administration03:26 Trump's Business Ventures and Foreign Influence06:11 Consumer Products and Personal Enrichment07:17 Conclusion and Call to ActionAbout Bob Gatty A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time. Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.Bob is considering making changes to Lean to the Left in 2025, and is asking for your input. Please take a moment to complete two quick 4-question polls here on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeantotheLeft/communityDISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.
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Meeting the Pre-Teen Challenge
Dec 22, 202400:31:16Tap to summarizeMeeting the Pre-Teen ChallengeToday, with the Holidays upon us, I'm veering away from political discussions to focus on kids, specifically pre-teen kids, and I invite you to check out this interview with life coach Marcus Aurelius Higgs as we discuss meeting the pre-teen challenge. And, if you like it, please consider subscribing and leaving a comment. Hitting the like button would be great, too!Our guest is Marcus Higgs, a life coach specializing in communication strategies for parents of preteens. The discussion covers the importance of open communication, family relationships, and critical thinking for preteens. Marcus shares his journey from being a missionary in South Korea to founding Certain Future Press, a company dedicated to character development and supporting holistic growth in families. He introduces the 'Show Up' framework designed to help parents foster strong identities and communication skills in their children facing the challenges of modern societal pressures, especially those stemming from social media. Additionally, Marcus emphasizes the value of collective growth, interpersonal development, and the significance of virtues and values in family culture.Marcus is the author of "Inspire Life Through Words of Well-Being," personal meditations in poetry. Here's a link: https://amzn.to/3P8093qCHAPTERS:00:00 Welcome to Lean to the Left Podcast00:22 Introducing Marcus Higgs: Life Coach for Preteen Parents01:35 Marcus Higgs' Background and Missionary Work02:37 The Birth of Certain Future Press03:31 Communication Strategies for Preteen Parents05:00 The Show Up Framework: Helping Parents Show Up06:43 Challenges and Strategies in Parenting Preteens12:02 Public vs. Private Education Debate14:48 Understanding the Show Up Framework15:05 Melting the Wall of Ice: Building a Strong Identity15:12 Understanding Virtues and Values15:55 Challenges of Identity in the Digital Age16:27 The SHOW Framework: Strategies for Parents18:19 Counseling and Support for Parents21:37 The Role of Technology and Social Media27:34 Characteristics of the Ideal Parent29:29 Inspiring Life Through Words of Wellbeing30:37 Generational Impact and Legacy31:12 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsAbout Bob Gatty A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time. Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.Bob is considering making changes to Lean to the Left in 2025, and is asking for your input. Please take a moment to complete two quick 4-question polls here on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeantotheLeft/communityOur mission is to challenge the status quo and provide a platform for underrepresented voices. Thank you for being part of this journey with us!DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.
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Unveiling Immigration Surveillance: AI, Technology, and Migrant Abuse
Dec 16, 202400:24:09Tap to summarizePlease check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link.Join us in this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast as we dive into the critical issues surrounding immigration, AI technology, and human rights and migrant abuse with author and attorney Petra Molnar. We discuss her book, 'The Walls Have Eyes: Surviving Migration in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,' which chronicles her six-year journey examining the impact of AI on migration globally, which she says is fraught with abuse.Petra sheds light on Trump's mass deportation plan, the broader implications of AI and surveillance at borders, and the role of the profit-driven private sector in the border security industry. She also highlights her work with the Migration and Technology Monitor Project. This episode is a must-watch for those concerned about human rights, technology, and the future of immigration policies.CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Immigration Issues00:17 Meet Petra Monar: Migration Expert01:11 The Role of Technology in Migration02:24 Surveillance and Deportation Concerns04:14 Global Impact of Surveillance on Migrants09:55 Tech Companies Profiting from Borders16:47 Migration and Technology Monitor Project20:39 Personal Migration Journey and ConclusionAbout Bob Gatty A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time. Bob is considering making changes to Lean to the Left in 2025, and is asking for your input. Please take a moment to complete two quick 4-question polls here on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeantotheLeft/communityDISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.
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