Progressive Voices

Why Society Keeps Collapsing—And We Just Pretend It’s Fine | Karel Cast 25-71 Description: Our world is unraveling, but we’re too busy pretending everything’s normal. In today’s Karel Cast, I break down a powerful article on hypernormalization—how we normalize the absurd and destructive just to keep functioning. Sound familiar? It should. Also: The anti-LGBTQ+ agenda continues to escalate. Where does it end? What is the ultimate goal of those targeting queer lives and rights? Plus, Trump’s latest move? Pardoning reality show felons. How much lower can it go? 👉 WATCH, like, and subscribe at youtube.com/reallykarel 💬 Join the convo in the comments ❤️ Support the show at patreon.com/reallykarel 🎙️ The Karel Cast streams Mon–Thurs @ 10:30AM PST on all major platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and more. 📱 Follow for more on TikTok & Instagram: @reallykarel

This week on CodeWACK! Medicare for All is back in the spotlight! With two new bills recently introduced in Congress, what makes these proposals different from earlier versions— and why are some advocates feeling hopeful, even in the current political climate? What would a truly public, universal health care system look like, and how could it help curb the soaring costs, corporate greed, and bureaucracy plaguing our current system? To unpack this, we spoke with Rachel Madley, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Center for Health and Democracy. A former health policy advisor to Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal — lead sponsor of the House Medicare for All bill — Rachel helped shape and reintroduce the landmark legislation in 2023. She’s also a former FDA staffer and holds a PhD in Microbiology and Immunology from Columbia University, where she was active in both Physicians for a National Health Program and Students for a National Health Program.

Why the “Big Beautiful Bill” Is a Big Fat Lie — And No One’s Talking About It Description: In this episode of The Karel Cast, we dig into the so-called “Big Beautiful Bill” — praised in headlines but deeply flawed beneath the surface. While the Senate nitpicks over details, no one is asking the real question: why is this bill just bad for Americans, full stop? Karel breaks down the bigger picture lawmakers ignore and why this is a pattern that keeps hurting everyday people. Next, we tackle the $750,000 budget hole at NYC Pride and the growing financial crisis facing LGBTQ+ Pride events nationwide. A recent survey shows consumers are now twice as likely to avoid brands that support Pride. Is this Trump’s fault? Not exactly. Karel has a sharper take. Finally, a little keyboard chaos: Karel got into it online with a journalist covering the Nevada Gay Rodeo. What sparked the drama? Let’s just say it involves clout-chasing, rodeos, and a whole lotta ego. 🔥 Unfiltered. Honest. Bold as ever. 🟢 Support the show: patreon.com/reallykarel 📺 Watch + Subscribe: youtube.com/reallykarel 🎧 Stream anywhere: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, Spreaker & more 📱 Follow on TikTok + Instagram: @reallykarel 📍 Live Mon–Thurs at 10:30am PST

$7 Coffee? $3 Cream? Restaurant Tries to Defend INSANE Prices — It Backfires Description: In today’s episode of The Karel Cast, we dive into the viral backlash against Ain’t Normal Coffee in Oakland after a reviewer called them out for charging $3 extra for a splash of half and half. The owner says it’s unfair criticism — but is it really? When coffee already costs up to $10, and a scone is $7, how much is too much? We also tackle the global double standard in media outrage: Gaza’s ongoing devastation continues, yet a single violent incident in the U.S. involving Israelis sparks international headlines. Why is one life valued over another in public discourse? Plus, let’s get personal — when someone says “I need space” in a relationship, what does that even mean? Karel shares a raw and honest take on emotional distance and what it really signals. 🔥 Tune in for bold opinions, unfiltered honesty, and the truth you’re not hearing anywhere else. 🟢 Support the show: patreon.com/reallykarel 📺 Watch + Subscribe: youtube.com/reallykarel 🎧 Stream anywhere: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, Spreaker & more 📱 Follow on TikTok + Instagram: @reallykarel 📍 Live Mon–Thurs at 10:30am PST

💀 30 Americans Die EVERY Hour From This Hidden Killer | Karel Cast Ep. 25-68 You hear about cancer, heart disease, and accidents — but the #3 leading cause of death in the USA? You probably haven’t been told the full truth. ➡️ Medical errors claim 100,000 lives a year — that’s 30 people per hour. And no, these aren’t rare mistakes… they’re disturbingly common. 💔 I lost the most important person in my life to this, and 24 years later, I still don’t trust the medical system — and after this episode, you might not either. 🚀 Meanwhile, Trump wants to weaponize space with a “golden dome” of defense — but who actually owns space? And what happens when other countries respond in kind? This could trigger a dangerous new arms race above Earth. ⚖️ Plus: I want to lose weight the old-fashioned way — but is that foolish in today’s shortcut-obsessed world? 🎧 Watch & listen to The Karel Cast, now streaming everywhere — Apple, Spotify, iHeart, YouTube, TikTok, and more. 💖 Support the show at patreon.com/reallykarel 📺 Subscribe: YouTube.com/reallykarel

Are you handsome/pretty? Can you read a TelePrompter convincingly? Are you willing to compromise whatever personal values you might hold in exchange for fame and fortune (of course, if you’re already ideologically aligned, so much the better)? If you answered all those questions “yes,” then you too could be a part of State Television, aka Fox News. Most presidents feverishly vet their cabinet and functionaries to ensure competence and integrity. This administration has a different approach. There are only two bars to clear. First, are you loyal to Donald Trump, no matter what, and second, has he admired you on Fox News. We’ll go through the list in this short commentary. I hope you’ll listen.

This week on CodeWACK! Which states have received the highest scores in the rePROs Fight Back’s 13th annual 50-state report card on sexual and reproductive health and rights released in March -- and why? And what specific threats - whether federal, state or local - should reproductive rights advocates be most concerned about? And what policies should they be promoting? To find out, we spoke with Jennie Wetter, Director of the rePROs Fight Back initiative at The Population Institute, where she champions sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice every day. Jennie also hosts the rePros Fight Back Podcast, offering deep dives into abortion access, birth control, sex ed, LGBTQ+ rights, and This is part two of a powerful two-part series with Jennie.

America’s Budget Battle EXPOSES a Harsh Truth | Karel Cast 25-67 💥 You spend money on what matters. So why is the U.S. government slashing Medicare, Medicaid, food aid, and education — but pouring billions into war and tax cuts for the wealthy? The answer is painful: America has an empathy problem. And it’s killing us. 🇺🇸 Politicians reflect the people. When Biden revealed his cancer diagnosis, the right didn’t respond with compassion — they mocked him, spread conspiracies, and celebrated. What does that say about us? 💣 Is the U.S. on the brink of collapse — or already past the point of no return? This isn’t a rant. It’s a reality check. 👀 Plus, the Diddy drama deepens — and what was reportedly found in his hotel room is shocking. Drug cocktails, bizarre personal items… it paints a dark picture of celebrity excess and self-destruction. 🎧 Watch the full Karel Cast now and join the conversation that isn’t afraid to say what others won’t. 👉 Watch, Subscribe, and Support: 🌐 reallykarel.com 📢 patreon.com/reallykarel 📺 YouTube: @ReallyKarel 🎙️ Streaming on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, and all major platforms #EmpathyCrisis, #BidenHealth, #USPolitics2025, #BudgetCuts, #MedicareMatters, #FoodStamps, #AmericanDecline, #PoliticalCommentary, #TruthTellers, #KarelCast, #DiddyControversy, #CelebrityCulture, #DrugAddictionAwareness, #ViralPodcast, #LasVegasLife, #LGBTQVoices, #RealTalk, #YouTubeNews, #CultureCritique, #CurrentEvents https://youtube.com/live/zbn9dI8idqI

🚨 Biden’s Cancer Battle, AI Griefbots, and the Price of Fame | Karel Cast Ep. 25-66 President Joe Biden is battling aggressive prostate cancer with a Gleason score of 9 and bone metastasis. At 81, is this the end of the road—or just the beginning of a tougher fight? We break it all down. 🧠💀 Griefbots are here. Yes, your loved ones can now interact with a digital version of you after you’re gone. Your face, your voice, your memories—kept alive by AI. But is this innovation comforting, creepy, or just dangerous? 💸 Would you rather be rich or famous? Ben Affleck says money over fame—and I’ve got thoughts. Is celebrity worth the cost? 🎧 Watch the full episode now on YouTube and listen on all major platforms. 📲 Subscribe: https://youtube.com/reallykarel 🌐 Follow @ReallyKarel on socials and visit reallykarel.com 🎙️ The Karel Cast: Bold, unfiltered commentary from trailblazing LGBTQ+ host Karel, coming to you from Las Vegas with his dog Ember.

Leslie Marshall Show - A Non-Partisan View on U.S. Tariffs with AAM President Scott Paul by Progressive Voices

Overwhelmed by Life? Where Do YOU Escape? Plus: The Real Diddy Drama | Karel Cast Ep. 25–66 🌪️ When life gets too loud, where do you go to quiet the noise? We all reach a breaking point — but what helps you reset? Is it music, nature, meditation, motorcycles, or just zoning out with a favorite movie? In this episode, we dive into the essential need to retreat, recharge, and protect your peace. You’re not alone in needing a safe space — let’s talk about how to find (or build) yours. 🔥 Is Diddy a freak — or just human? A wild new claim involving nipple cream has the internet buzzing, but let’s be real: sexual kinks aren’t crimes. What is on trial here is consent. So why do we get so distracted by the salacious headlines? Let’s break it down.

Reformed Killers or Master Manipulators? The Menendez Brothers Back in Court | Karel Cast Ep. 25-65 🔍 Are the Menendez Brothers reformed—or just playing the long game? Their shocking 90s murder trial gripped the nation even before O.J. Now, decades later, they’ve been re-sentenced and could be eligible for parole. Was it justice, manipulation, or redemption? Their parole hearing is set for June — and the world is watching. ✈️ Meanwhile, Trump is jetting off with his new BFFs — Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the billionaire boys’ club including Elon Musk. This isn’t diplomacy. It’s a luxury power trip — but who really benefits? Spoiler: not you. 🏍️ PLUS: What happens when you stop doing something you love? Inspired by Ewan McGregor’s The Long Way Round, I’m reflecting on the passions we leave behind — and why we need to reclaim them. 🎙️ The Karel Cast airs Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms. 📲 Follow @ReallyKarel on TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, and more. 💖 Support independent media at patreon.com/reallykarel 📺 Subscribe and watch all episodes at youtube.com/reallykarel

Why is National Single Payer organizing a National Day of Action on May 31 amid cuts and freezes to public health programs? How has an incremental approach to universal health care in America made comprehensive healthcare reform more difficult? To find out, we recently talked to Dr. Ana Malinow, who spent three decades working as a pediatrician with immigrant, refugee and underserved children before retiring as clinical professor of Pediatrics from UC San Francisco School of Medicine. The past president of Physicians for a National Health Program, she is on the steering committee of National Single Payer. She’s also a lead organizer for The Movement to End Privatization of Medicare. This is the first episode in a two-part series.

Health Obsessed, But Dying Younger? | Karel Cast 25-64 Americans are more health-obsessed than ever—tracking protein, joining gyms, spending billions on healthcare. Yet shockingly, we’re dying younger and younger. What’s behind this deadly contradiction? The truth is simpler—and scarier—than you think. Also on today’s Karel Cast: 🇨🇳 Trump’s “Deal” with China – Is it really a win, or a surrender disguised as strategy? 😩 Blue Mondays Are Real – Why Mondays hit harder than we realize and how to fight back. 🎙️ Watch & Listen The Karel Cast streams live Monday–Thursday at 10:30 AM PST across Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartMedia, and Spreaker. 📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram @ReallyKarel. 🐾 Karel is a trailblazing broadcaster now based in Las Vegas with his service dog Ember. Support the show at patreon.com/reallykarel. 🔔 Subscribe for fearless commentary, real talk, and the truth the mainstream won’t say!

Trump’s Flying Palace EXPOSED, Music Mogul Trial Drama, and #1 Artist of the Century Shocks Fans! Karel Cast Ep. 25-64 🚨 Trump says “Buy American,” but happily accepts a $500M luxury jet from Qatar — a nation far from an ally. Why? He wants a flying Mar-a-Lago! The current Air Force One isn’t lavish enough, apparently. But don’t worry — YOU’LL be footing the bill. Will Elon DOGE this one? 🎤 A major music mogul is on trial, but why is this case making headlines while Weinstein fades into the background? The answer might be simpler — and scarier — than you think. 💿 Plus, the best-selling music artist of the 21st century has been revealed — and it’s NOT who you think! The numbers will blow your mind. 📺 Watch the full episode now on YouTube and subscribe at YouTube.com/reallykarel 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts. 🌐 Follow @ReallyKarel on all socials and visit reallykarel.com The Karel Cast — bold, unfiltered, and three times a week across all streaming platforms. 🏳️‍🌈 Hosted by trailblazing LGBTQ+ talk show legend Karel, coming to you from Las Vegas with pup Ember.

Single Dad Murdered After Instagram Date | Why the Old Safety Rules Still Matter | Karel Cast Ep 25-63 📢 Thumbnail Text Idea: “DM → Date → DEAD 💔” “Why We’re Ignoring the Rules That Could Save Our Lives” 🎙️ Description A single dad ends up dead after meeting a woman through Instagram. They exchanged DMs, went on a date… and he was found in a pool of blood next to his car. In an era of dating apps and DMs, are we ignoring the safety rules that used to protect us? This shocking story proves: **the rules haven’t changed—**we’ve just stopped following them. 🚨 In this episode of The Karel Cast, I break down what happened and why it matters. From true crime shows to real-world tragedy, we keep seeing one theme: our parents’ safety advice still applies—but tech has made us forget. 🧼 Also today: Food safety in the U.S. is collapsing. There’s one product you should AVOID buying right now—and no, it’s not meat (which you shouldn’t be eating anyway!). 🎬 Plus, as the weekend rolls in, we dive into the latest entertainment news and ask: Should we give more tax breaks to U.S. productions? 🕙 The Karel Cast goes LIVE Monday–Thursday at 10:30am PST. 🎧 Available everywhere: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, Spreaker 📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram 🐾 Hosted by Karel, history-making broadcaster and entertainer, live from Las Vegas with Ember the Wonder Pup 🐶 💸 Support the show: patreon.com/reallykarel ▶️ Subscribe now: youtube.com/reallykarel

This week on CodeWACK! Single payer is back in the spotlight with Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Pramila Jayapal submitting new Medicare for All bills for 2025-26! How will the upcoming National Day of Action on May 31st keep the need for healthcare reform in the spotlight? And how do physicians feel about single payer today, 60 years after the American Medical Association’s infamous ‘stealth campaign’ against socialized medicine (featuring none other than Ronald Reagan)? To find out, we recently talked to Dr. Ana Malinow, who spent three decades working as a pediatrician with immigrant, refugee and underserved children before retiring as clinical professor of Pediatrics from UC San Francisco School of Medicine. The past president of Physicians for a National Health Program, she is on the steering committee of National Single Payer. She’s also a lead organizer for The Movement to End Privatization of Medicare.

What Century Are We Living In? Progress Feels Like It’s in Reverse | Karel Cast Ep. 25-62 Are we really in the 21st century? Because it sure doesn’t feel like it. From popes chosen in secrecy like it’s 1723, to India and Pakistan clashing over colonial-era borders, to Trump talking about annexing Canada like it’s 1776 again — the world seems stuck in the past. And despite having supercomputers in our pockets, some still believe in horse dewormer over science. Measles is back. Anti-vax conspiracies are thriving. Seriously… What century is this? Join Karel as he breaks down the madness of modern-day “progress,” with a sharp, witty, and brutally honest look at today’s world. 🟢 Watch & Listen LIVE Monday–Thursday at 10:30 AM PST 📲 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Spreaker, and more 🎥 Full videos on YouTube, TikTok & Instagram: @reallykarel ❤️ Support the show at Patreon.com/ReallyKarel ⸻ #KarelCast #WhatCenturyIsThis #PoliticalSatire #ProgressOrNot #ModernMadness #CurrentEvents #IndiaPakistan #TrumpNews #AntiVax #PopeElection #SocialCommentary #WokeTalk #LGBTQVoices #LasVegasPodcast #HistoryRepeats #ReallyKarel #MeaslesOutbreak #21stCenturyProblems

Why We’re All Poor Even at $100K | Truth About ‘Minimum’ Wage Karel Cast 25-61 In four Bay Area Counties, low income now means six figures. Yes, $100 to be poor. But we’ve always lied to ourselves about money. For instance, the “minimum” wage is just another word for poverty, not a living. And it’s not just the four area counties, low income in the USA now means under $100k a year and we all know it. So why do we lie and say you can live comfortably on $50k or $70k a year. In today’s world, that’s surviving, not comfortable. Also, why is the world turning its back on Gaza. They are about to be completely destroyed and disenfranchised, and no one is screaming at Israel. Why? Oh, ya, that’s why. The MET Gala made me joyous and sad. We’ll discuss. The Karel Cast is heard on all streaming services from Apple Music to iHeart Media, Spotify to Spreaker. The show is Monday through Thursday at 10:30 am Live PST. It can also be seen on TikTok and Instagram. Karel is a history-making broadcaster and entertainer currently in Las Vegas with his little service girl Ember. The Karel Cast is supported by your donations at patreon.com/reallykarel Please watch, like and subscribe to the videos at / reallykarel 🎬 𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇 𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐎𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐑 𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐎𝐒: ▶️ • Trump Says “I Don’t Know” About Defen... ▶️ https://youtube.com/live/U8VP5Ym8PBI ▶️ • Everybody Wants This, But Can’t Have It 🔔 𝐒𝐔𝐁𝐒𝐂𝐑𝐈𝐏𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐊: ▶️ / @reallykarel ⚠️ 𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐈𝐌𝐄𝐑: We do not accept any liability for any loss or damage incurred from you acting or not acting as a result of watching any of my publications. You acknowledge that you use the information I provide at your own risk. do your own research. ✖️ 𝐂𝐎𝐏𝐘𝐑𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐄: This video and my YouTube channel contain dialog, music, and image that are property of “Really Karel” You are authorized to share the video link and channel and embed this video in your website or others as long as a link back to my YouTube Channel is provided 👉 @ReallyKarel ▶️ 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐊𝐄𝐘𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐒:- #CostOfLivingCrisis #SixFiguresStillBroke #MinimumWageTruth #AmericanDreamIsDead #LivingWageNow #EconomicReality #MiddleClassMyth #RealTalkMoney #FreePalestine #StandWithGaza #GazaUnderAttack #HumanRights #SilenceIsViolence #JusticeForGaza #EndTheOccupation #GenocideInGaza

Trump Says “I Don’t Know” About Defending the Constitution 😳 | Karel Cast Ep. 25-60 ⸻ Description: 🚨 Did Trump just betray the oath of office—again? In a jaw-dropping interview, Donald Trump was asked if it’s the President’s job to defend the Constitution—and he responded: “I don’t know.” Seriously? This is the same man who’s sworn twice to protect and defend it. Is this another impeachable offense the media will ignore? 🔥 In this episode of the Karel Cast: 🛑 Trump dodges basic constitutional duty—why is Congress silent? 📸 What’s with that Pope photo and Trump’s bizarre behavior? 👑 Prince Harry speaks out after court loss—but why is public hate still so strong? 🍗 Alcohol and chicken: what do they have in common? A deadly truth. 🎧 Plus, how mainstream media gaslights us and why YOU need to speak up. 🎙 The Karel Cast is bold, fearless, and unfiltered—streaming LIVE Monday–Thursday at 10:30AM PST. 🔔 SUBSCRIBE for honest takes on politics, culture, and headlines no one else is telling. 💬 Drop a comment: Should Trump be held accountable for this? 📲 Watch & follow on TikTok, Instagram, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart & more 💖 Support the show at Patreon.com/ReallyKarel #Trump #Constitution #PoliticsToday #PrinceHarry #CancelCulture #KarelCast #BreakingNews #ViralNews #PopCulture #PoliticalCommentary https://www.youtube.com/live/Wc3bYP75tFI?si=c6hdNWvFlgOC0yPT