The John Fugelsang Podcast

In this episode of We're Still Here, John is joined by the brilliant Simon Moya Smith, a Lakota Chicano journalist and author, and Julie Francella, a mental health professional and Ojibwe educator. Together, they engage in a heartfelt discussion about the legacy of Gloria Steinem and her impact on feminism and Indigenous cultures.
John reflects on how Steinem’s advocacy not only empowered women but also liberated men from the constraints of toxic masculinity. Simon shares his personal connection to Steinem, recounting an inspiring conversation he had with her about the importance of advocacy journalism in addressing the plight of missing and murdered Indigenous women.
Julie emphasizes the significance of matriarchal cultures within Indigenous communities, highlighting how these systems have historically provided strength and resilience. The trio delves into the complexities of cultural identity, discussing the intersections of matriarchy and patriarchy in various cultures, including the challenges faced by individuals navigating these dynamics.
As the conversation evolves, they tackle pressing issues such as the recent renaming of Lake Ontario and the implications for Indigenous rights, emphasizing the importance of honoring treaties and the historical narratives tied to these lands. They also address the treatment of wild horses and the broader implications for Indigenous relationships with the environment.
Join John, Simon, and Julie for an enlightening episode that champions the voices of Indigenous peoples, celebrates the legacy of Gloria Steinem, and encourages listeners to engage in meaningful conversations about culture, identity, and justice.
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In this episode of The John Fugelsang Podcast, John tackles the critical implications of California's Proposition 40, a proposed one-time 5% tax on billionaires aimed at revitalizing the state's healthcare system. With the potential to raise around $100 billion, this initiative seeks to backfill funding lost due to federal cuts that threaten millions of Californians' health coverage. John engages with Dave Regan, President of SEIU UnitedHealthcare Workers West, who passionately articulates the urgent need for this tax to prevent catastrophic losses in healthcare services, especially for vulnerable populations.
As they delve into the details, John and Dave discuss the challenges of calculating billionaire wealth, the moral imperative for the wealthy to contribute more during times of crisis, and the broader societal implications of wealth inequality. They highlight the stark reality facing California's healthcare system, where layoffs and closures loom if Prop 40 does not pass.
The conversation shifts to the historical context of labor rights and activism, drawing parallels between the struggles of past generations and today's fight for equitable healthcare. John emphasizes the need for grassroots mobilization and the importance of standing up to misinformation campaigns funded by the wealthy elite.
Join John for an enlightening discussion that not only examines the pressing issues at stake in California but also serves as a rallying cry for collective action in the face of systemic injustice.
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In this episode of The John Fugelsang Podcast, John dives deep into the pressing issues of our time, starting with New York City's ban on AI in classrooms and the alarming UN report on global warming. He discusses the urgent need for immunizations as the American Academy of Pediatrics joins forces with other medical organizations to advocate for public health amidst rising concerns about the Ebola crisis in Congo.
John is joined by Dr. Tracy Pearson, a legal analyst, to unpack the implications of immigration crackdowns on students and the mental health challenges they face. Together, they explore the tragic story of Pierre Damas Bell, a young immigrant whose life was cut short by the harsh realities of immigration enforcement, and the broader impact on the educational landscape for immigrant students.
As the conversation shifts, John reflects on the legacy of the late Gloria Steinem, celebrating her contributions to feminism and the fight for gender equality. He emphasizes how Steinem's work not only liberated women but also challenged toxic masculinity, urging men to embrace vulnerability and compassion.
With humor and insight, John critiques the current political climate, including the absurd endorsement of Ken Paxton by President Donald Trump, and the ongoing fallout from the Iran war. He encourages listeners to engage in activism and remain aware of the systemic issues affecting their lives and communities.
Join John for a thought-provoking episode filled with passion, laughter, and a call to action for a better future.
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Ever feel like neither political party actually speaks for you anymore? You’re far from alone. Millions of voters are walking away from the bipartisan machine—and the political establishment is scrambling to adapt.
In this episode of The John Fugelsang Podcast, John cuts through Washington's internal chaos to reveal what these massive political shifts mean for your everyday life and your vote.
He’s joined by guest Adam Brandon—political bridge builder, Senior Advisor at the Independent Center, and former leader of FreedomWorks for over a decade. A proud Cleveland native with three master’s degrees and deep expertise in foreign and domestic policy, Adam is passionate about uniting the "politically homeless" to put country over party.
Whether you're fed up with partisan gridlock or trying to make sense of the latest defense shockwaves, this conversation delivers a clear roadmap to where American politics is actually heading next.
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In this episode, John discusses Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll's resignation and the implications of the recent government shutdowns, alongside the devastating flash floods in the Grand Canyon. John also critiques the Trump administration's controversial moves, including the closure of truck driving schools and the mishandling of mail voting, which raises eyebrows about election integrity. Then, he speaks with Susan Rinkunas and Garnet Henderson from Autonomy News. They shed light on the impending threats to abortion rights in the wake of the midterms. They also discuss the legal maneuvers surrounding mifepristone and the potential ramifications of the Comstock Act, emphasizing the urgent need for vigilance in protecting reproductive freedoms. Their insights highlight how the fight for abortion access is intricately tied to larger issues of healthcare and systemic racism. And finally, John welcomes back Leigh McGowan, known as Politics Girl, who shares her thoughts on the current political climate and the importance of grassroots activism. Together, they tackle the challenges of voter suppression and the need for accountability among elected officials, urging listeners to remain engaged and prepared as the midterms approach.
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