Laura Flanders and Friends: Progressive, Economics, Democracy, Solutions, BIPOC-logo

Laura Flanders and Friends: Progressive, Economics, Democracy, Solutions, BIPOC

News & Politics Podcasts

Award winning host, author and journalist Laura Flanders interviews forward-thinking people from the world of politics, business, culture and social movements. 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 50+ community radio stations, and is available on YouTube and here as a podcast. Online subscribers receive lots of video and audio web exclusives. Recent specials include "Indigenous People's Power", "James Baldwin: Lessons for the US", "Building Public Trust for Public Health", "Countering the Coup From the Grassroots Up". Recent special guests include Representative Karen Bass, environmental activist Jane Fonda, economist Robert Reich, author/activist Naomi Klein, agrarian reformer Shirley Sherrod, novelist Arundhati Roy, economist Michael Hudson and ’Next System” theorist Gar Alperovitz.

Location:

United States

Description:

Award winning host, author and journalist Laura Flanders interviews forward-thinking people from the world of politics, business, culture and social movements. 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 50+ community radio stations, and is available on YouTube and here as a podcast. Online subscribers receive lots of video and audio web exclusives. Recent specials include "Indigenous People's Power", "James Baldwin: Lessons for the US", "Building Public Trust for Public Health", "Countering the Coup From the Grassroots Up". Recent special guests include Representative Karen Bass, environmental activist Jane Fonda, economist Robert Reich, author/activist Naomi Klein, agrarian reformer Shirley Sherrod, novelist Arundhati Roy, economist Michael Hudson and ’Next System” theorist Gar Alperovitz.

Twitter:

@theLFshow

Language:

English

Contact:

212.343.2353


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

2/12/2025
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 brought business to Craigsville, Virginia, a two square-mile, 900-person town located in the Shenandoah Valley. But when the prison closed in the summer of 2024 with minimal warning and no time for planning, Craigsville residents and the town’s economy were hit hard. In this special report, Laura Flanders & Friends correspondents Chelsea Higgs Wise and Lewis Raven Wallace head to Craigsville to learn about how the town is struggling, possible solutions from locals, and the larger questions around our country’s prison industrial complex. How can small, rural communities be supported in a sustainable transition away from a carceral economy? Join us as we envision the future of Craigsville and investigate how decarcerating the economy can become a win for all. Chelsea Higgs Wise is a community organizer based in Richmond, Virginia whose work focuses on empowering Black communities economically and educationally. She is co-founder and director of Marijuana Justice, a Black-led organization established to repair the harms of the drug war. Durham, North Carolina-based Lewis Raven Wallace is an independent journalist, author, and the Abolition Journalism Fellow at Interrupting Criminalization. Plus, a commentary from Laura on what could happen to the Augusta Correctional Center under the Trump administration. “At one point there were 43 institutions in the Virginia Departments of Corrections . . . That number has dramatically decreased as a result of measures put in place, such as incentive credits, the juvenile parole bill, and other pieces of legislation that helped sentencing.” - Sincere Allah “What I would say is that building these prisons has not changed communities. It hasn't helped people inside. It hasn't helped create all these amazing jobs . . . Instead of investing $1.5 billion in our prisons, parole, probation, what if that was invested in communities?” - Margaret Breslau “Augusta Correctional opened in 1985. Probably at least half of the population here was working over there at that time. And it boosted the community greatly . . , boosted the town operational costs also. Kind of devastating for them to leave.” - Richard L. Fox “There's a gorgeous gym in [the prison] that is just full of equipment that these young people could very much get something out of. There's a beautiful library in there. There's two ball fields there. There's plenty of office space. It could be turned into a lot of things.” - Tracy Martin Correspondents: • Lewis Raven Wallace: Journalist & Activist, Durham, North Carolina • Chelsea Higgs Wise: Journalist & Policy Advocate, Richmond, Virginia Guests: • Sincere Allah: State Organizer, REFORM Alliance • Margaret Breslau: Co-Founder, Virginia Prison Justice Network • Pam L. Carter: Augusta County Board of Supervisors, Craigsville, Virginia • Richard L. Fox: Mayor, Craigville, Virginia • Tracy Martin: Fire Chief, Volunteer Fire Department, Craigsville Virginia • Sandy Oscar Sprouse: Owner, Grandma’s Busy Bee • Fred Sprouse: Superintendent of Maintenance, Craigsville, Virginia • David Swink: Cattle & Hay Farmer, Craigsville, Virginia • Catherine Moyers-Youell: Retired Teacher, Craigsville, Virginia • Bill Youell: Retired Chemical Engineer, Craigsville, Virginia • Claudette Wilcher: Pastor Bells Valley Worship Center, Craigsville, Virginia Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channel Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle: ...

Duration:00:30:15

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

2/5/2025
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 return to their homes, are they receiving enough information about insurance and recovery dollars, or how to protect their health and wellbeing? At the time of this recording, the Pacific Palisades and the Eaton fires are still burning, with toxic air and water putting thousands at risk. On top of the immediate dangers, the loss of community and the threat of developers and gentrification will impact residents for years to come. How are the media reporting on communities dealing with this immeasurable loss and what is the path to recovery for the city? Kadia Tubman, Scripps News Disinformation Correspondent, returns to host our monthly “Meet the BIPOC Press” panel. Joining us from Los Angeles are two journalists to talk about the stories they’re covering on the ground. Cerise Castle reports on civil rights, criminal justice and climate. She wrote a groundbreaking exposé of deputy gangs inside the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department which we featured last year. She is exploring the environmental impact the fires have had in communities such as Altadena. Jacqueline García is a Senior Reporter at CALÓ News, focused on immigration, politics and issues affecting the Latino population. She is covering inspiring organizing among day laborers and immigrants. We’ll also see an excerpt from Castle’s most recent report for Capital & Main. Join us to hear what local BIPOC reporters want outside media to hear, as they respond to the Los Angeles fires. “. . . I am glad to see that there has been a course correction by both local and national media to bring these stories to the forefront, not just talking about high-income earners in the Palisades that have lost million-dollar homes, but talking about the babysitters, the grocery shopkeepers, the renters that were living in apartments that lost everything in the Eaton fire.” - Cerise Castle “. . . [Immigrants are] using this phrase of “el pueblo salva al pueblo,” which is people helping people . . . They said that this is what they're showing, that immigrants are also coming to work and they're showing their efforts and their passion for the community, and they want it to go back to as normal as possible.” - Jacqueline García Guests: • Cerise Castle: Journalist, Capital & Main • Jacqueline García: Senior Reporter, CALÓ News • Kadia Tubman: Disinformation Correspondent, Scripps News Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channel Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle: “Babylon Flamenco” by Gaudi from his album Bass, Dub, Sweat & Tears courtesy of Six Degrees Records. And additional music included- "Steppin" and "All The Ways" by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • The Defund Movement in 2024: Frontline Reporters Separate Myth from Reality: Watch / Audio Podcast • Colette Pichon Battle on Climate Justice Reparations: Watch / Audio Podcast: Episode &/or Full Conversation • BIPOC Media Answers the Call: Community Action After Hurricane Helene: Watch / Audio Podcast: Episode &/or Full Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • Day Laborers and Volunteers Clean After the Eaton Fire, by Jacqueline Garcia, January 10, 2025, CALÓ News •. Black Altadena Rebuilds after the Eaton Fire with Guidance from Octavia Butler, by Cerise Castle, January 24, 2025, Capital & Main • Governor Newsom announces commitments from major lenders to provide firestorm survivors with mortgage relief, January 18, 2025...

Duration:00:28:46

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

1/31/2025
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 conversation. Laura passes the mic to Kadia Tubman of Scripps News to host this month’s meet the BIPOC press. In this episode we hear what BIPOC Media are telling about the Los Angeles Wildfires that the other media are not. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. Episode Description: In times of crisis, people need their questions answered, fast. As residents impacted by the recent Los Angeles fires return to their homes, are they receiving enough information about insurance and recovery dollars, or how to protect their health and wellbeing? At the time of this recording, the Pacific Palisades and the Eaton fires are still burning, with toxic air and water putting thousands at risk. On top of the immediate dangers, the loss of community and the threat of developers and gentrification will impact residents for years to come. How are the media reporting on communities dealing with this immeasurable loss and what is the path to recovery for the city? Kadia Tubman, Scripps News Disinformation Correspondent, returns to host our monthly “Meet the BIPOC Press” panel. Joining us from Los Angeles are two journalists to talk about the stories they’re covering on the ground. Cerise Castle reports on civil rights, criminal justice and climate. She wrote a groundbreaking exposé of deputy gangs inside the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department which we featured last year. She is exploring the environmental impact the fires have had in communities such as Altadena. Jacqueline García is a Senior Reporter at CALÓ News, focused on immigration, politics and issues affecting the Latino population. She is covering inspiring organizing among day laborers and immigrants. We’ll also see an excerpt from Castle’s most recent report for Capital & Main. Join us to hear what local BIPOC reporters want outside media to hear, as they respond to the Los Angeles fires. “. . . I am glad to see that there has been a course correction by both local and national media to bring these stories to the forefront, not just talking about high-income earners in the Palisades that have lost million-dollar homes, but talking about the babysitters, the grocery shopkeepers, the renters that were living in apartments that lost everything in the Eaton fire.” - Cerise Castle “. . . [Immigrants are] using this phrase of “el pueblo salva al pueblo,” which is people helping people . . . They said that this is what they're showing, that immigrants are also coming to work and they're showing their efforts and their passion for the community, and they want it to go back to as normal as possible.” - Jacqueline García Guests: • Cerise Castle: Journalist, Capital & Main • Jacqueline García: Senior Reporter, CALÓ News • Kadia Tubman: Disinformation Correspondent, Scripps News Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channel Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • The Defund Movement in 2024: Frontline Reporters Separate Myth from Reality: Watch / Audio Podcast • Colette Pichon Battle on Climate Justice Reparations: Watch / Audio Podcast: Episode &/or Full Conversation • BIPOC Media Answers the Call: Community Action After Hurricane Helene: Watch / Audio Podcast: Episode &/or Full Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • Day Laborers and Volunteers Clean After the Eaton Fire, by Jacqueline Garcia, January 10, 2025, CALÓ News •. Black Altadena Rebuilds after the...

Duration:00:30:05

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Inside the MAGA Movement: What Happens Now?

1/29/2025
Explore the complex narrative behind Trump’s controversial pardons, as filmmaker Michael Premo discusses capturing the diverse faces of political extremism in 'Homegrown'. 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 January 6, 2021. One of those pardoned was one of the subjects of a gripping documentary: Homegrown, from Storyline Media. Alongside two other members of the extremist group, the Proud Boys, filmmaker Michael Premo followed convicted felon, Christopher Quaglin, at home, on the road, and up the steps of the Capitol that day. In this conversation with Flanders, recorded just prior to Trump’s inauguration, Premo describes how the film came to be and what he found, including the surprising diversity within the Right-wing groups he followed. How do political ideas turn to political violence? What is the path forward? Join us for a timely conversation and, as always, Laura’s commentary. “I think what we're going to see is an escalation of the potential for violence . . . Project 2025 is a great example of the sort of broader consensus among the conservative movement around what to do once they regained power . . . People feel increasingly emboldened in a way that I think is somewhat similar to 2016, but there's a different sense of urgency.” - Michael Premo Guests: Michael Premo, Journalist & Filmmaker; Director & Producer, Homegrown Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channel Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle: ‘Call Sender remix’ of “Lost In the Woods” by Project Gemini from their forthcoming Colours & Light courtesy of Mr. Bongo Records and thanks to Nurture Music. And additional music included- "Steppin" and "All The Ways" by Podington Bear. *Note: This interview took place on January 15th, 2025 prior to the inauguration. Since the taping of this interview, Donald Trump issued pardons for over 1,500 individuals convicted of crimes related to the January 6 Capitol storming shortly after taking office. Christopher Quaglin, a prominently featured subject in the documentary "Homegrown," was pardoned alongside other members of the extremist group, the Proud Boys. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Lisa Graves: The Extremist Revolution & Democracy Hanging by a Thread: Watch / Audio Podcast • Faith & Fascism: Rob Reiner & Dan Partland Tackle Christian Nationalism with “God & Country”: Watch / Download Podcast: Episode & Full Conversation • Another January 6 Insurrection? ‘War Game’ Film Asks if We’re Ready: Watch / Download Podcast: Episode & Full Conversation • Countering the Coup From the Grassroots Up: Watch / Download Podcast • Political Violence & MAGA Militancy: Strategies to Protect Democracy: Watch / Download Podcast • Idaho’s United Vision Project: Confronting Extremism in America’s Heartland: Watch / Download Podcast: Episode & Full Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • Police Must Do Better Against Far-Right Violence, byMike German & Beth Zasloff, January 8, 2025, Brennan Center • FBI seizes largest stockpile of explosives in its history from Virginia home, by WDBJ7 Staff, January 1, 2025, Isle of Wight, VA, WDBJ7 • Four years after the Capitol riot, its meaning and legacy are still debated, by Odette Yousef, January 6, 2025, WAMU - NPR News • Donald Trump Throws the Doors to the Patriot Wing Open, by Antonia Hitchens, January 25, 2025, The New Yorker Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram:...

Duration:00:28:21

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

1/24/2025
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 podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. The following is from our episode “Inside the MAGA Movement: What Happens Now?” with guest Michael Promo, a journalist and filmmaker who produced and directed the gripping documentary “Homegrown.” The film follows three members of the Proud Boys in the lead up to the January 6th insurrection. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our member supporters. *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 January 6, 2021. One of those pardoned was one of the subjects of a gripping documentary: Homegrown, from Storyline Media. Alongside two other members of the extremist group, the Proud Boys, filmmaker Michael Premo followed convicted felon, Christopher Quaglin, at home, on the road, and up the steps of the Capitol that day. In this conversation with Flanders, recorded just prior to Trump’s inauguration, Premo describes how the film came to be and what he found, including the surprising diversity within the Right-wing groups he followed. How do political ideas turn to political violence? What is the path forward? Join us for a timely conversation and, as always, Laura’s commentary. “I think what we're going to see is an escalation of the potential for violence . . . Project 2025 is a great example of the sort of broader consensus among the conservative movement around what to do once they regained power . . . People feel increasingly emboldened in a way that I think is somewhat similar to 2016, but there's a different sense of urgency.” - Michael Premo Guest: Michael Premo: Journalist & Filmmaker; Director & Producer, Homegrown Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channel Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon *Note: This interview took place on January 15th, 2025 prior to the inauguration. Since the taping of this interview, Donald Trump issued pardons for over 1,500 individuals convicted of crimes related to the January 6 Capitol storming shortly after taking office. Christopher Quaglin, a prominently featured subject in the documentary "Homegrown," was pardoned alongside other members of the extremist group, the Proud Boys. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Lisa Graves: The Extremist Revolution & Democracy Hanging by a Thread: Watch / Audio Podcast • Faith & Fascism: Rob Reiner & Dan Partland Tackle Christian Nationalism with “God & Country”: Watch / Download Podcast: Episode & Full Conversation • Another January 6 Insurrection? ‘War Game’ Film Asks if We’re Ready: Watch / Download Podcast: Episode & Full Conversation • Countering the Coup From the Grassroots Up: Watch / Download Podcast • Political Violence & MAGA Militancy: Strategies to Protect Democracy: Watch / Download Podcast • Idaho’s United Vision Project: Confronting Extremism in America’s Heartland: Watch / Download Podcast: Episode & Full Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • Police Must Do Better Against Far-Right Violence, byMike German & Beth Zasloff, January 8, 2025, Brennan Center • FBI seizes largest stockpile of explosives in its history from Virginia home, by WDBJ7 Staff, January 1, 2025, Isle of Wight, VA, WDBJ7 • Four years after the Capitol riot, its meaning and legacy are still debated, by Odette Yousef, January 6, 2025, WAMU - NPR News Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with...

Duration:00:39:05

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

1/22/2025
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 lifelong activist Dean Spade has written “Love in a F*ed Up World: How to Build Relationships, Hook Up, and Raise Hell, Together”. Which tools can help people and social justice movements face conflict and emerge stronger (rather than weaker)? Which stories do we tell ourselves that aren’t helping us think — or act — in our best interest? In this timely conversation, Spade shares tips on how we might get our interpersonal houses in order so that we’re better equipped to show up for others and the causes we care about. Spade is a lawyer, educator, and author of “Mutual Aid: Building Solidarity During This Crisis (and the Next)”, and “Normal Life: Administrative Violence, Critical Trans Politics and the Limits of the Law”. He’s the director of “Pinkwashing Exposed: Seattle Fights Back!”, and in 2002 he founded the Sylvia Rivera Law Project in New York City, a law collective that provides free legal services to trans and gender non-conforming people who are low income and/or people of color. He has useful things to say about romance too, which are worth bearing in mind, as the Valentine’s marketing crush hits, as Laura reflects in her commentary. “. . . Most of us are taking in all the bad news by ourselves through a screen . . . One of the best things we can do to support our own wellbeing through the overwhelm is be with others, joining any kind of project in our communities, a creative project, a mutual aid project . . .” - Dean Spade “The typical self-help genre is very focused on the individual. It doesn't contextualize the kinds of suffering that everyone's going through in a broader feminist analysis, anti-capitalist analysis, anti-racist analysis . . . If we understand that our individual suffering is a bunch of bigger scripts, . . . it can be a little bit freeing.” - Dean Spade Guest: Dean Spade: Author, Love In A F*ed-Up World: How To Build Relationships, Hook Up, And Raise Hell Together & Mutual Aid: Building Solidarity During This Crisis (and the Next) 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! Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle: “We are Rising” by activist, singer and songwriter, Taína Asili. She created the song for One Billion Rising’s 2020 global campaign.. And additional music included- "Steppin" and "All The Ways" by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • The New Transgender Movement: Race, Poverty, Gender, Policing, and Pinkwashing, Watch ​​• Emergent Strategies for Abolition: Andrea J. Ritchie’s Toolkit for Activists: Watch / Download Podcast • Mariame Kaba: Rooting Out Our Culture of Harm: Watch / Download Podcast: Episode & Full Uncut Conversation • adrienne maree brown: Pleasure Activism and Black Women’s Legacy of Joy, Watch (06:58) / Download Podcast: Full Uncut Conversation (37:20) Related Articles and Resources: • Our Best Option for Defending Ourselves From Trump’s Second Term Is Each Other, by Dean Spade, November 12, 2024, TruthOut • Checking in with Dean Spade (ep181), December 9, 2024, Gender Reveal Podcast •. “The Mask Is Off:” Dean Spade and Susan Stryker on Trans Resistance in Trump’s America, by Them, December 18, 2024, Them.us Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah...

Duration:00:29:13

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

1/21/2025
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 has written “Love in a F*cked Up World: How to Build Relationships, Hook Up, and Raise Hell, Together”. Which tools can help people and social justice movements face conflict and emerge stronger (rather than weaker)? Which stories do we tell ourselves that aren’t helping us think — or act — in our best interest? In this timely conversation, Spade shares tips on how we might get our interpersonal houses in order so that we’re better equipped to show up for others and the causes we care about. Spade is a lawyer, educator, and author of “Mutual Aid: Building Solidarity During This Crisis (and the Next)”, and “Normal Life: Administrative Violence, Critical Trans Politics and the Limits of the Law”. He’s the director of “Pinkwashing Exposed: Seattle Fights Back!”, and in 2002 he founded the Sylvia Rivera Law Project in New York City, a law collective that provides free legal services to trans and gender non-conforming people who are low income and/or people of color. He has useful things to say about romance too, which are worth bearing in mind, as the Valentine’s marketing crush hits, as Laura reflects in her commentary. “. . . Most of us are taking in all the bad news by ourselves through a screen . . . One of the best things we can do to support our own wellbeing through the overwhelm is be with others, joining any kind of project in our communities, a creative project, a mutual aid project . . .” - Dean Spade “The typical self-help genre is very focused on the individual. It doesn't contextualize the kinds of suffering that everyone's going through in a broader feminist analysis, anti-capitalist analysis, anti-racist analysis . . . If we understand that our individual suffering is a bunch of bigger scripts, . . . it can be a little bit freeing.” - Dean Spade Guest: Dean Spade, Author, “Love In A F*cked-Up World: How To Build Relationships, Hook Up, And Raise Hell Together”, “Mutual Aid: Building Solidarity During This Crisis (and the Next)” and more. Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channel Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • The New Transgender Movement: Race, Poverty, Gender, Policing, and Pinkwashing, Watch ​​• Emergent Strategies for Abolition: Andrea J. Ritchie’s Toolkit for Activists: Watch / Download Podcast • Mariame Kaba: Rooting Out Our Culture of Harm: Watch / Download Podcast: Episode & Full Uncut Conversation • adrienne maree brown: Pleasure Activism and Black Women’s Legacy of Joy, Watch (06:58) / Download Podcast: Full Uncut Conversation (37:20) Related Articles and Resources: • Our Best Option for Defending Ourselves From Trump’s Second Term Is Each Other, by Dean Spade, November 12, 2024, TruthOut • Checking in with Dean Spade (ep181), December 9, 2024, Gender Reveal Podcast •. “The Mask Is Off:” Dean Spade and Susan Stryker on Trans Resistance in Trump’s America, by Them, December 18, 2024, Them.us Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube:...

Duration:00:37:24

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

1/15/2025
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 national energy policy that married conservation with developing alternatives and getting off oil, passed the Superfund Act, created the Federal Department of Education and negotiated the Panama Canal treaty — a deal that Trump slammed earlier this week as he threatened to regain control of Panama. In this episode, Laura is on the ground in Georgia for Carter’s funeral events, and speaks with people who came from all around the country to pay their respects. How are Americans remembering the 39th president? Many obituaries have excluded the October Surprise by which the release of US hostages held in Iran was delayed until Ronald Reagan’s election day, and Carter’s critiques of Israeli violations of international law and his warning that cutting off non-violent options for Palestinians under Israel’s occupation would inevitably explode, making both Israel and the Palestinians less secure. What should we make of the notion that he “failed” during his presidency? Join us as we explore why Carter’s legacy is so relevant today. All that, plus a commentary from Laura. “Carter had established the US-China relationship and this year is the 45th anniversary of US-China relationship normalization. Over the past 40 years, he had the great policy to help the Chinese people, help China to develop, and that changed millions of people's life.” - Richard Li “[Jimmy Carter] was accused of being antisemitic. Imagine the president who removed Israel's largest enemy from the battlefield, Egypt, could be considered antisemitic is so beyond the pale. He was so committed to Israel's security, which he knew could only happen when the Palestinian people would have their state.” - Karin Ryan “There's different philosophies on how private sector and public sector labor unions are viewed, and each one of them is unique in how they work for their contracts. But overall, collective bargaining is an important thing. And I think the general consensus of everybody historically is that President Carter supported collective bargaining, and collective bargaining is what this country was founded on.” - Greg Waddle People Featured in This Episode: • Karin Ryan, the Senior Policy Advisor on Human Rights and Special Representative on Women and Girls at The Carter Center • Richard Li, Vice President, Chinese American Business Association of Atlanta • Greg Waddle, President, IATSE Local 479 Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle: flashback to the Jimmy Carter Campaign Song “Why Not the Best” from 1976. And additional music included- "Steppin" and "All The Ways" by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Angela Davis: A Revolutionary Roadmap for Building a Better Future, Watch / Listen-Podcast- Episode, Full Conversation • Israel, Hamas & Universal Human Rights: Former UN Official Craig Mokhiber Describes Path Forward, Watch / Listen-Podcast- Episode, Full Conversation • How to Fortify Democracy in 2024, Watch / Listen-Podcast- Episode Related Articles and Resources: • Jimmy Carter Presidential Library video archives • Carterland, a documentary by Jim & Will Pattiz released in 2021, Learn More • Jimmy Carter Tribute website, Learn More Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat...

Duration:00:28:17

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

1/8/2025
**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 on people’s heads,” disproportionately impacts Black and Brown people, and favors the wealthy who can buy their freedom while leaving the poor to languish in jail. Bail reform has faced tremendous pushback over the years, but Illinois implemented the first-of-its-kind Pretrial Fairness Act, ending cash bail statewide in 2023. The historic win didn’t happen overnight. In this episode some of those most involved explain what it took and describe the surprising results. Sharone R. Mitchell Jr., the Cook County Chief Public Defender was the lead policy expert for the Coalition to End Money Bond. Mitchell also heads the state’s largest public defender office. State Senator Robert Peters represents Illinois’ 13th District and was one of the main sponsors of the Pretrial Fairness Act. He chairs the Senate Labor Committee. Bryce Covert followed this important and under-covered story for The Nation magazine. What has Illinois to teach the nation? All that plus Laura’s commentary: Illinois has moved out of the Middle Ages. What’s holding the rest of the nation back? “I do think that there has been a severe backlash to the Black Lives Matter movement, to criminal justice reform that's pretty nationwide . . . That said, Illinois is out there doing this, and I think people are taking note . . . So as long as this stays in place and we have good data about the outcomes and people keep supporting it and don't give into the opposition that wants to push to roll it back, then we will have proof that this can happen, that this can work.” - Bryce Covert “Literally the hardest job I had was talking to mothers and grandmothers and partners about whether they should be paying this a thousand dollars for bond or a thousand dollars for rent. We were forcibly extracting money out of the people that needed it the most. And I'm so glad that we are now in a system where we realized that we can make these really important decisions without quite frankly putting ransoms on people's heads.” - Sharone R. Mitchell Jr. ". . . The president was involved in criminal behavior. Rudy Giuliani was involved in criminal behavior. They had no problem being able to either pay out or pay within the legal system. Working class people on the other hand, many of them who are innocent, many of them who are just trying to live their life or trying to move on, they can't. A billionaire who's able to game the court system and be able to get out has no business trying to lecture the working class of this country.” - Robert Peters Guests: • Bryce Covert: Contributor, The Nation • Sharone R. Mitchell Jr.: Chief Public Defender Cook County, Illinois • Robert Peters: Illinois State Senator, 13th District Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle: Eric Kupper remix of “U Try Livin’” by Black Guy, White Guy and 808 Beach from the Red Hot and Free project released by the Red Hot Organization. And additional music included- "Steppin" by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Corporate Prison Reform Will Not Keep Us Safe: A Report from Los Angeles: Watch / Listen: Podcast Episode • Crime & Migration: An Abolitionist Plan for Immigration Justice: Watch / Listen: Podcast Episode • D.A. Larry Krasner Facing Impeachment: Criminal Justice Reform in the Crosshairs: Watch / Listen: Podcast Episode Related Articles and Resources: •...

Duration:00:28:32

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

1/3/2025
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,” disproportionately impacts Black and Brown people, and favors the wealthy who can buy their freedom while leaving the poor to languish in jail. Bail reform has faced tremendous pushback over the years, but Illinois implemented the first-of-its-kind Pretrial Fairness Act, ending cash bail statewide in 2023. The historic win didn’t happen overnight. In this episode some of those most involved explain what it took and describe the surprising results. Sharone R. Mitchell Jr., the Cook County Chief Public Defender was the lead policy expert for the Coalition to End Money Bond. Mitchell also heads the state’s largest public defender office. State Senator Robert Peters represents Illinois’ 13th District and was one of the main sponsors of the Pretrial Fairness Act. He chairs the Senate Labor Committee. Bryce Covert followed this important and under-covered story for The Nation magazine. What has Illinois to teach the nation? All that plus Laura’s commentary: Illinois has moved out of the Middle Ages. What’s holding the rest of the nation back? Guests: • Bryce Covert: Contributor, The Nation • Sharone R. Mitchell Jr.: Chief Public Defender Cook County, Illinois • Robert Peters: Illinois State Senator, 13th District Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channel Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Corporate Prison Reform Will Not Keep Us Safe: A Report from Los Angeles: Watch / Listen: Podcast Episode • Crime & Migration: An Abolitionist Plan for Immigration Justice: Watch / Listen: Podcast Episode • D.A. Larry Krasner Facing Impeachment: Criminal Justice Reform in the Crosshairs: Watch / Listen: Podcast Episode Related Articles and Resources: • Illinois Has Put an End to the Injustice of Cash Bail, by Bryce Covert, December 2, 2024, The Nation • U.S. Commission on Civil Rights Releases Report: The Civil Rights Implications of Cash Bail, by U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, January 20, 2022, USCCR.org • Cash bail disproportionately impacts communities of color. Illinois is the first state to abolish it. By Claire Savage and Corey Williams, September 12, 2023, AP News Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lg Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriends Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriends ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Duration:00:34:03

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

1/1/2025
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 awakening, as people rallied to end economic inequality and support democracy in response to the 2008 global financial crisis. On this 13th anniversary, how does the spirit of Occupy live on? And what progress — if any — has been made when it comes to the wealth gap? Joining us for that conversation is Marisa Holmes, author of the recently released book “Organizing Occupy Wall Street: This Is Just Practice” and director of “All Day All Week: An Occupy Wall Street Story” which looks at the takeover of Zuccotti Park in New York City in September 2011. Also joining us is Taifa Smith Butler, President of Demos, a public policy organization working to build a multiracial democracy and economy. Previously she was a leader at the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute. Award-winning journalist Amir Khafagy returns to co-host this episode. Our guests explore the links between economic inequality and authoritarianism and ask how far we've come as a nation to create structural, policy and practice-based changes on the economic front. How can we create a people-led economy that will lead to collective power? All that, plus a commentary from Laura. “During Occupy, we really rejected representative politics because it seemed not responsive to people's needs . . . So we just thought, ‘We're going to do this ourselves’. We have to build alternatives ourselves from the bottom up through mutual aid networks . . . That's what I think is going to transform the economy . . .” - Marisa Holmes “Demos has always talked about the inextricable links of economic power and political power. As I think about where we are historically with the retraction of resources, with the threat of authoritarianism and fascism and this demographic shift that is happening in our nation and the inequality that continues to proliferate, if we do nothing, we'll be looking at apartheid in America.” - Taifa Smith Butler Guests: • Taifa Smith Butler: President, Dēmos • Marisa Holmes: Author, Organizing Occupy Wall Street • Amir Khafagy: Journalist, Report for America Member, Documented Watch the episode cut airing on PBS stations across the country at our YouTube channel Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle: “Walk-in’” by The Pimps of Joytime featuring Roy Ayers from the Occupy This Album compilation. And additional music included- "Steppin" by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • “Trust-Busting 2024 with Stacy Mitchell & Matt Stoller: A Bipartisan Battle Against Monopoly Power” Watch / Listen or Download Podcast• Debt, Democracy & Disarray: Astra Taylor on “The Age of Insecurity”. Watch / Listen or Download Podcast • Catastrophic Capitalism: Marjorie Kelly & Edgar Villanueva on “Wealth Supremacy” Watch / Listen or Download Podcast Related Articles and Resources: • Overview of Demos’ Economic Democracy Project & Case Studies, Read /Download Here • All Day All Week- An Occupy Wall Street Story made with the Occupy Wall Street Media Working Group, Watch Here • Rewind: As Obama's re-inauguration approaches, Americans celebrate other key anniversaries. But the promised land remains elusive, by Laura Flanders, The Guardian, Read Here Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram:...

Duration:00:28:49

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

12/25/2024
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 Genesis Be grapples with in all her work. Genesis Be has a new book out, People Not Things: Love Poems & Paintings for Humanity, and recently curated the Freedom Rising art show in Brooklyn, New York featuring work by incarcerated artists currently held by the Georgia Department of Corrections. She is the subject of the upcoming film “Mississippi Turning” about the successful years-long effort to remove the Confederate symbol from the state’s flag. In this episode taped at the CUNY studios in NYC, we turn to a poet and a preacher. Genesis Be joins Laura Flanders and co-host Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis, the Senior Minister for Public Theology and Transformation at Middle Church, to discuss how to reject stigmas and advance liberation. Genesis Be painted in the studio — for her and us it was a first. “I did my protest about the confederate flag that went viral, I hung a noose around my neck and draped myself in a confederate flag . . . It was a very scary time for me because I got thrown into the fight to change the Mississippi State flag. There were a lot of death threats, but a lot of support during that time.” - Genesis Be “The word freedom is hijacked often by folks: freedom from having to change, freedom from having to admit the humanity of others, freedom from having to widen the tent, freedom from having to let go of their sense of exceptionalism . . . This [conference] was a gathering of like-minded folks sharing a dream of all of us belonging and all of us saving this democracy, interfaith, intergenerational.” - Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis Guests: • Genesis Be: Poet, Peace Activist, Artist; Author, People Not Things: Love Poems & Paintings for Humanity • Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis (Co-host): Senior Minister of Public Theology & Transformation, Middle Church, NYC. Author of several books including her latest Fierce Love: A Bold Path to Ferocious Courage and Rule-Breaking Kindness That Can Heal the World Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle: “Blind Lady Say (Be Love)” by Genesis Be, courtesy of the artist. And additional music included- "Steppin" by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: •. Prison Creative Arts Project: Imagination in the Face of Incarceration. Watch / Listen-Download Podcast and Full Conversation • How Radical Self-Love Can Heal the World. Watch / Listen-Download Podcast • Ask Angola Prison: What Difference Can a Play Make? Watch / Listen-Download Podcast and Full Conversation Related Articles and Resources: •. Documentary (released Fall 2024) “Mississippi Turning” Artist & activist Genesis Be, after her controversial protest against Mississippi's Confederate Heritage Month, heads down to her home state of Mississippi to have an honest discussion with people on both sides of the debate, including her childhood friend, a proud descendant of Confederate soldiers. Watch the Trailer •. “People Not Things” by Genesis Be, recordings of her poetry via Bandcamp •. Middle Church Freedom Rising Conference Learn More Here •. People Not Things Exhibit. Learn More Here Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram:...

Duration:00:29:22

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

12/18/2024
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 your continued support! 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 areas of reproductive rights, low and middle-income housing, public safety, immigration and more. And that’s no wonder. Simon’s following Lee — whose historic 26-year career in the legislature included often being in the minority, and once standing alone against granting the president unlimited war powers after 9/11. Like Lee, Simon began her activism as a single mother at Mills College, and that’s not all they have in common. Lee says Simon’s already made her proud. This episode will delight everyone interested in the role of African American women in politics, or how legacies are built and power is passed on. All that, plus a commentary from Laura on how not to stay tired. “Being a Black woman in America really gives us the experience and the lens to not be daunted with being a minority. We've been a minority in this country forever . . . I don't buy this fear. I don't buy into the fact that a lot of people talk about they're exhausted Black women. We always keep going and Lateefah keeps going. “ - Barbara Lee “We know what racism looks like. We know what the threats of deportation looks like. We have been here before, but I am so honored to be able to take on again, the ongoing journey that was led by Shirley Chisholm, Kamala D. Harris, and my mentor, professor and friend Barbara Lee. We are weary, clearly, but we're not weak.” - Lateefah Simon Guests: • Barbara Lee, Congresswoman, California 12th District • Lateefah Simon, Congresswoman-Elect, California 12th District Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle: "Be Love" by Alexis P. Suter Band, the title track from their album released on HipBone Records.. And additional music included- "Steppin" by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Transportation is a Human Right. Watch / Download Podcast • To Save The Progressives: U.S. Reps Pramila Jayapal, Mark Pocan, Barbara Lee, Yvette Clark. Watch Related Articles and Resources: • Lateefah Simon, on Track to Be a New house Dem: “I’ve Never Shied Away From Any Fight”, by Samantha Michaels, November 6, 2024, Mother Jones • Shirley Chisolm’s Legacy Still Looms Large, Time Magazine • ‘The point is to be there for the fight’: incoming congresswoman arrives in D.C., Erika Ryan, Ari Shapiro, Patrick Jarenwattananon, November 25, 2024, NPR Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Erika Harley, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube:...

Duration:00:29:11

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

12/17/2024
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 fellows and guide them in producing their own media pieces. You are about to hear one of those stories produced by our Justice Capital Initiative fellow Erika Harley, a college sophomore pursuing a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. Description: Many first-generation Latino students face unique challenges as they navigate the path from college to career readiness. ALPFA (Association of Latino Professionals for America) is a transformative organization providing mentorship, professional development, and a sense of belonging through its ALPFAmilia network. In this audio report, John Jay Justice Capital Initiative fellow Erika Harley explores how ALPFA empowers students to overcome barriers, featuring interviews with John Jay Chapter President Nayeli Zempoaltecatl and the New York Director of Student Affairs Kevin Durjpal. Together, they share how ALPFA bridges the gap for underrepresented groups, fosters equity, and transforms lives. "Everybody a part of ALPFA is automatically a part of an ALPFAMILIA because this network, why it was created, was to help, at first, Latinos. Now it has branched out, of course. But we understand one another. We know the struggles we're facing." – Nayeli Zempoatecatl “A lot of students, they want to join in first to get an internship. But then when you join in, you realize you make a lot of good friends. You may look at family. That's the reason why you want to stay. I know that's the reason why I stayed.” – Kevin Durjpal Guests: ALPFA NY AccentureMusic Included: "Tweet Storm" & " Electric Car" by Podington Bear At The Laura Flanders Show, we’re dedicated to providing a platform for diverse voices in the field of social justice. This report, a collaboration between The Laura Flanders Show fellowship program and CUNY John Jay College, reflects our commitment. The opinions presented are solely those of the guest contributor and do not necessarily reflect or represent The Laura Flanders Show’s views or those of CUNY John Jay College. Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Erika Harley, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lg Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriends Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriends ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Duration:00:08:53

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

12/13/2024
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 areas of reproductive rights, low and middle-income housing, public safety, immigration and more. And that’s no wonder. Simon’s following Lee — whose historic 26-year career in the legislature included often being in the minority, and once standing alone against granting the president unlimited war powers after 9/11. Like Lee, Simon began her activism as a single mother at Mills College, and that’s not all they have in common. Lee says Simon’s already made her proud. This episode will delight everyone interested in the role of African American women in politics, or how legacies are built and power is passed on. All that, plus a commentary from Laura on how not to stay tired. “Being a Black woman in America really gives us the experience and the lens to not be daunted with being a minority. We've been a minority in this country forever . . . I don't buy this fear. I don't buy into the fact that a lot of people talk about they're exhausted Black women. We always keep going and Lateefah keeps going. “ - Barbara Lee “We know what racism looks like. We know what the threats of deportation looks like. We have been here before, but I am so honored to be able to take on again, the ongoing journey that was led by Shirley Chisholm, Kamala D. Harris, and my mentor, professor and friend Barbara Lee. We are weary, clearly, but we're not weak.” - Lateefah Simon Guests: • Barbara Lee, Congresswoman, California 12th District • Lateefah Simon, Congresswoman-Elect, California 12th District RESOURCES: Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Transportation is a Human Right. Watch / Download Podcast • To Save The Progressives: U.S. Reps Pramila Jayapal, Mark Pocan, Barbara Lee, Yvette Clark. Watch Related Articles and Resources: • Lateefah Simon, on Track to Be a New house Dem: “I’ve Never Shied Away From Any Fight”, by Samantha Michaels, November 6, 2024, Mother Jones • Shirley Chisolm’s Legacy Still Looms Large, Time Magazine • ‘The point is to be there for the fight’: incoming congresswoman arrives in D.C., Erika Ryan, Ari Shapiro, Patrick Jarenwattananon, November 25, 2024, NPR Full Episode Notes are located HERE. 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 Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Erika Harley, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lg Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriends Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriends ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Duration:00:45:33

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

12/12/2024
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, 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 contracts for her views, she says, but that hasn’t stopped her “making funny during a genocide” on social media all year. And she’s shown her followers her home village in Palestine — the best place on earth, she says, despite the onslaught of oppression and violence that her people have endured. Maysoon co-founded the New York Arab American Comedy Festival and the Muslim Funny Fest. Her viral Ted Talk, “I Got 99 Problems...Palsy is Just One,” has been translated into 42 languages, and was one of the most popular talks of 2014. She’s the author of “Shiny Misfits”, the new graphic novel that tells the story of Bay Ann, a disabled girl and her cat friend that rock star Dave Matthews narrates for the audiobook. In this conversation filled with heart and humor, hear how comedy shines a light on injustice and serves as a voice of resistance. All that, plus a commentary from Laura on human shields. “As a disabled kid, I liked Palestine a lot more than Jersey . . . I was the only visibly disabled kid in my school growing up. But in Palestine there were other disabled kids and disability wasn't shunned. It wasn't mocked, it wasn't bullied. I grew up in a society that very much believed that disability was a natural part of life . . .” - Maysoon Zayid “I've always used comedy to humanize and educate on disability. And this is the moment because the future of Palestine is disabled and between life and death, there's disability. I don't think it's better to be dead than to be disabled. I want us to create a viable, accessible future for this cohort of human beings that we have failed in the present.” - Maysoon Zayid Guest: Maysoon Zayid: Comedian & Disability Advocate; Author, Shiny Misfits Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle: "Purpose Love" by Jhelisa, released on Dorado Records. And additional music included- "Steppin" by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • “The Future is Disabled”: Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha. Watch / Download Podcast and Full Conversation • Anita Cameron & Keith Jones on The Americans with Disabilities Act: A Civil Rights Milestone With Miles To Go. Watch • Amanda Seales Takes the Heat: Speaking Out About Gaza & Hollywood. Watch / Download Podcast and Full Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • “Shiny Misfits” Maysoon’s graphic novel and audio version available from Audible featuring the voice of Dave Matthews, and others. • Maysoon Zayid’s Ted Talk • DISCO, a live interactive panel show hosted by Maysoon Zayid coming up February, 2015 at Joe’s Pub in New York City. Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Erika Harley, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook:...

Duration:00:29:18

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

12/6/2024
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 contracts for her views, she says, but that hasn’t stopped her “making funny during a genocide” on social media all year. And she’s shown her followers her home village in Palestine — the best place on earth, she says, despite the onslaught of oppression and violence that her people have endured. Maysoon co-founded the New York Arab American Comedy Festival and the Muslim Funny Fest. Her viral Ted Talk, “I Got 99 Problems...Palsy is Just One,” has been translated into 42 languages, and was one of the most popular talks of 2014. She’s the author of “Shiny Misfits”, the new graphic novel that tells the story of Bay Ann, a disabled girl and her cat friend that rock star Dave Matthews narrates for the audiobook. In this conversation filled with heart and humor, hear how comedy shines a light on injustice and serves as a voice of resistance. All that, plus a commentary from Laura on human shields. “As a disabled kid, I liked Palestine a lot more than Jersey . . . I was the only visibly disabled kid in my school growing up. But in Palestine there were other disabled kids and disability wasn't shunned. It wasn't mocked, it wasn't bullied. I grew up in a society that very much believed that disability was a natural part of life . . .” - Maysoon Zayid “I've always used comedy to humanize and educate on disability. And this is the moment because the future of Palestine is disabled and between life and death, there's disability. I don't think it's better to be dead than to be disabled. I want us to create a viable, accessible future for this cohort of human beings that we have failed in the present.” - Maysoon Zayid Guest: Maysoon Zayid: Comedian & Disability Advocate; Author, Shiny Misfits RESOURCES: Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • “The Future is Disabled”: Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha. Watch / Download Podcast and Full Conversation • Anita Cameron & Keith Jones on The Americans with Disabilities Act: A Civil Rights Milestone With Miles To Go. Watch • Amanda Seales Takes the Heat: Speaking Out About Gaza & Hollywood. Watch / Download Podcast and Full Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • “Shiny Misfits” Maysoon’s graphic novel and audio version available from Audible featuring the voice of Dave Matthews, and others. • Maysoon Zayid’s Ted Talk • DISCO, a live interactive panel show hosted by Maysoon Zayid coming up February, 2015 at Joe’s Pub in New York City. Full Episode Notes are located HERE. Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Erika Harley, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lg Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriends Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriends ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Duration:00:39:10

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

12/4/2024
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 videos on social media. She’s lost agents, her publicist, and has had speaking gigs retracted for her commitment to social justice. From Black women to Palestinians in Gaza, Seales uses her platform to speak honestly about harm done to others. She talks powerfully about her experiences with the dangers of fame and celebrity in Hollywood, neurodivergence, white supremacy and a whole lot more. In this conversation, Laura Flanders asks Amanda Seales about our progress as a country, what it means to be an “artistic intellectual” and about the educators who’ve helped her along the way. Hear why Seales is “divesting from celebrity” and taking backlash from her support for Palestinians as “a badge of honor”. Plus, go behind the scenes with Seales with the full, uncut conversation from this week’s show. Laura will tell you more. “. . . You are definitely expected to just take whatever gossip is said about you. You have to take it all on the chin because you've made this somehow unspoken exchange that having monetary gain and visibility means that you have to allow harm. And what I've decided is I am divesting from celebrity.” - Amanda Seales “I lost my agents, I lost my publicist, and I have definitely had speaking engagements and different gigs retracted because of my support of Palestine and my outward support of the ending of apartheid in Palestine. I got to tell you, I take it as a badge of honor. I do. It's good trouble, rest in peace to John Lewis. I am so honored for all those people.” - Amanda Seales Guests: Amanda Seales, Artistic Intellectual Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle: “Hope” by Shaun Escoffery from his forth coming expanded digital album release of In The Red Room coming out on Dome Records. And additional music included- "Steppin" by Podington Bear. RESOURCES: Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: •. Angela Davis: A Revolutionary Roadmap for Building a Better Future, Subscribe: YouTube to Watch and Listen on Major Podcast Platforms, Listen to the full conversation •. Abbott Elementary Teaches Us All: Sheryl Lee Ralph & Joyce Abbott, Subscribe: YouTube to Watch and Listen on Major Podcast Platforms, Listen to the Full Conversation •. Sarah Jones on Sex & Making an “Unorthodoc,” Subscribe: YouTube to Watch and Listen on Major Podcast Platforms, Listen to the Full Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • Op-Ed: The Tragedy of Tyre Nichols and the State of Policing in America, by Amanda Seales, Ebony, Read Here • Amanda Seales: What would the ancestors say?? A one woman show, a return to artivism. Watch / Learn More • Small Doses with Amanda Seales Podcast Listen Here Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Erika Harley, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lg Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriends Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriends ACCESSIBILITY - The...

Duration:00:28:37

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BIPOC Media Answers the Call: Community Action After Hurricane Helene

11/27/2024
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 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 that saved lives and expanded their relationship with their communities. Our guests are Brooklyn Brown, Reporter for Cherokee One Feather, the local newspaper of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians; and Magaly Urdiales, co-founder of JMPRO Community Media (“Justice Media Project”), a grassroots nonprofit that shares essential news and information with immigrant communities in Spanish, English and Mayan Indigenous languages. As they found themselves at the frontlines of relief efforts, how did these local outlets redefine journalism? “. . . Objectivity doesn't have to be cold. Reporting the facts doesn't have to be without passion. That's something I see a lot in community journalism, is that we are able to practice good journalism while also having a heart for the community that we're covering.” - Brooklyn Brown “I think many barriers and many problems of the corporate media came in place. We were called for people that were looking for a story, that were looking for somebody that was crying because their loved one wasn't found yet. And for us it was frustrated . . . in a moment like this, that can be transactional.” - Magaly Urdiales Guests: • Brooklyn Brown (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians): Reporter, Cherokee One Feather • Magaly Urdiales: Co-founder, JMPRO Community Media • Amir Khafagy (Co-host): Journalist, Report for America Member, Documented Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Subscribe to episode notes via Patreon Music In the Middle: Novalima remix of “La Voz” by Eljuri, courtesy of the artist. And additional music included- "Steppin" by Podington Bear. Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Where Do We Go From Here? Frontline Activists Talk Election ‘24 Takeaways, Watch / Podcast: Abridged or Full Conversation • Climate Change Journalism: Moving Frontline Communities from the Sideline to the Center, Watch / Podcast • BIPOC Press for the People: Bursting the Corporate Media Bubble, Watch / Podcast: Abridged or Full Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • “Joey in chaos,” The giving heart of the Ice Cream Social, by Brooklyn Brown, October 15, 2024, Cherokee One Feather • JM Pro Community Media Podcast, Listen • Helene Response and Recovery, updates posted daily - Ashville, NC 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. Everyone who donates $25 or greater on Giving Tuesday, December 3rd, will receive a complimentary one year subscription to The Nation, both print and digital. Thank you for your continued support! Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Erika Harley, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/LFAndFriends Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube:...

Duration:00:29:26

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

11/22/2024
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 that saved lives and expanded their relationship with their communities. Our guests are Brooklyn Brown, Reporter for Cherokee One Feather, the local newspaper of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians; and Magaly Urdiales, co-founder of JMPRO Community Media (“Justice Media Project”), a grassroots nonprofit that shares essential news and information with immigrant communities in Spanish, English and Mayan Indigenous languages. As they found themselves at the frontlines of relief efforts, how did these local outlets redefine journalism? “. . . Objectivity doesn't have to be cold. Reporting the facts doesn't have to be without passion. That's something I see a lot in community journalism, is that we are able to practice good journalism while also having a heart for the community that we're covering.” - Brooklyn Brown “I think many barriers and many problems of the corporate media came in place. We were called for people that were looking for a story, that were looking for somebody that was crying because their loved one wasn't found yet. And for us it was frustrated . . . in a moment like this, that can be transactional.” - Magaly Urdiales Guests: • Brooklyn Brown (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians): Reporter, Cherokee One Feather • Magaly Urdiales: Co-founder, JMPRO Community Media • Amir Khafagy (Co-host): Journalist, Report for America Member, Documented Watch the broadcast episode cut for time at our YouTube channel and airing on PBS stations across the country Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: • Where Do We Go From Here? Frontline Activists Talk Election ‘24 Takeaways, Watch / Podcast: Abridged or Full Conversation • Climate Change Journalism: Moving Frontline Communities from the Sideline to the Center, Watch / Podcast • BIPOC Press for the People: Bursting the Corporate Media Bubble, Watch / Podcast: Abridged or Full Conversation Related Articles and Resources: • “Joey in chaos,” The giving heart of the Ice Cream Social, by Brooklyn Brown, October 15, 2024, Cherokee One Feather • JM Pro Community Media Podcast, Listen • Helene Response and Recovery, updates posted daily - Ashville, NC Full Episode Notes are located HERE. They include related episodes, articles, and more. Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Erika Harley, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and Friends Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/LFAndFriends Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriends YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lg Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriends Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriends ACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Duration:00:37:28