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Explaining Humanist values, how we can live our values to support social justice issues, and responding to science denying Christian Nationalists bent on smashing the wall between church and state. Human problems require human solutions. There will be interviews, from time to time, with Humanists and other secular people in Northwest Ohio and beyond.
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Secular Left

Douglas Berger

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There is a well organized and well funded effort to gut the Bill of Rights in this country and in the age of Trump, secular people seem to taking it on the chin more often. Secular Left is meant to be the light in the fog of Christian Nationalism supporting the idea that toxic religious belief is the root of most social justice issues today.
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My name is Erik Fleming. I am an African American native of Chicago. I have had the privilege of being an elected official in the Deep South. Therefore I created this podcast to express my unique take on politics, as well as encouraging black excellence in leadership. This podcast was a 2021 and 2024 Black Podcasting Awards Nominee for Best Black News & Politics Podcast and with your support, this podcast will continue to be an uplifting experience and a strong voice in our American politica ...
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In this episode, Rachel Zimmerman, author of Us, After: A Memoir of Love and Suicide, talks about her personal journey after the loss of husband and Michelle De Leon, founder of World Afro Day, explains the importance of ending texturism in the workplace, as well as in society. Then the episode concludes with my commentary on the execution of Marce…
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Ron Millar is our guest. He is the political action committee (PAC) manager for the Center for Freethought Equality, which operates under the American Humanist Association. With over 40 years of experience in nonprofit education and advocacy, including a significant tenure at the Secular Coalition for America, Millar shares his insights into the in…
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We look at the alarming trend of Republican rhetoric surrounding immigration, particularly their attempts to vilify Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio. Drawing comparisons to the divisive strategies of Ronald Reagan in the 1980s, we explore how the GOP is leveraging fear and misinformation to distract voters from their lack of substantial poli…
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In this jam packed episode, Kellee Knighten Hough (The social media personality known as “Kell Belle”) and Maura Quint (Campaign/Comms Director, Americans For Tax Fairness) discuss the importance of humor in American political discourse. As a bonus, our podcast law firm of Pearson & Pearson breaks down some recent and significant legal issues. --- …
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In this episode, legendary author Fred Waitzkin talks about his new book, Anything Is Good, and its emphasis on homelessness. Then, Matthew Ferrence, author of I Hate It Here, Please Vote For Me, discusses his book and gives his thoughts on American politics. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support…
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We engage in a compelling conversation with Kyle Herman, the newly elected city council member from Stow, Ohio. With a rich background that includes experiences in both national politics and international democracy promotion, Kyle shares his journey back to his hometown and the pivotal moments that inspired his decision to serve locally. Kyle offer…
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In this episode, friend of the podcast Coach Felecia Killings gives her conservative assessment of Vice President Harris’ campaign and talks about her upcoming leadership convention. Then, Dr. Robin Bernstein, author of Freeman’s Challenge, discusses the significance of her new book. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show…
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We investigate the political tactics of the Republican Party as we approach the election season, highlighting their reliance on divisive rhetoric around immigration rather than substantive policy proposals. With a convicted felon leading the party, it's become apparent that their strategy is to invoke fear rather than offer solutions. We examine ho…
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Nick Fish is our guest. He is the fourth president of American Atheists in its 60-year history. We discuss his journey to the organization, the strategic plan for the next 60 years, the current climate of religious freedom in the U.S., and how groups can collaborate to uphold secular values. Nick shares his background as a civil rights activist and…
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In this episode, Ethan Elkind, Director of The Climate Program at Berkeley Law, talks about his book, Railtown and the importance of public transportation towards climate change. Then, you will hear some of the voices from the Democratic National Convention held in Chicago last week. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show…
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We Don't Want Empty Promises, Party Manipulations, Or Politcal Bridge Burning We look into the ongoing political landscape in Ohio, dissecting the implications of a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at curbing gerrymandering that could potentially end the Republican supermajority in the state. The Ohio Ballot Board's recent attempt to manipul…
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In this episode, Dr. Crystal Chambers, author of Black Women's Pathways to Executive Academic Leadership, talks about Black female leadership, especially as it relates to the current Democratic presidential nominee. Then, Dr. Michael Sierra-Arévalo, author of The Danger Imperative, discusses how the concept of constant danger dictates American poli…
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We look into the complex religious dimensions of Project 2025, a strategic initiative shaped by the Heritage Foundation and influenced by various far-right and religious conservative groups. This document serves as a comprehensive playbook for a future conservative presidential administration, detailing policies aimed at reconstituting government t…
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In this inaugural episode of Season 10, Tim Wendel, author of Rebel Falls, talks about his book and his experience in Charlottesville 7 years after the “Unite The Right” rally. Then Coach Michael Taylor shares his passionate beliefs and his perspective on American race relations. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/eri…
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In this episode, the final episode of Season 9, Dr. John Berger, author of Solving the Climate Crisis: Frontline Reports from the Race to Save the Earth, and Dr. Jon Mills, author of End Of The World: Civilization and Its Fate, discuss the impact of the current environmental crisis we are in and share thoughts of how to get out of it. --- Support t…
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In this spicy episode, we give you many reasons why voting for Donald Trump in the upcoming election is not a wise choice. We look into the history of the 2024 presidential election, highlighting the lack of merit in considering Trump as a viable candidate due to his questionable character and numerous controversies during his previous presidency. …
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We look at the details of refreshing our group's Ten Commitments prize wheel for information booths at community events. Our focus is on engaging kids with fun activities while also educating them about humanism. We redesigned the wheel, creating new wedges with shortened, inspirational messages to convey the essence of each commitment effectively.…
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In this episode, Jason Bell, author of Cracking the Nazi Code, discusses his book, its protagonist, Winthrop Bell, and the relevance of the work in modern times. Then, I express my thoughts about the hope the new candidacy of Vice President Kamala Harris brings. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support…
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In this episode, Farah Harris, author of The Color of Emotional Intelligence, and Drs. Adaira Landry and Resa Lewiss, co-authors of MicroSkills, teach us in politics, and life in general, how to better cope with our emotions, make better use of our abilities, and to emphasize self-care.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/sh…
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We start with concerns surrounding politics, particularly Christian nationalism, in the United States. The focus is on the worrisome alignment between the Republican Party and Christian nationalists who wrongly believe that the US was founded as a Christian nation. We recommend two documentaries, "Bad Faith" and "God and Country," which shed light …
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In this episode, Saqib Qureshi, author of Being Muslim Today, talks about the challenges in the Muslim community and Timothy Bult, author of Platform of Hope, offers suggestions to the most controversial political issues of the day.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support…
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In this jammed packed episode, we talk with Zach and Molly, parents who are taking a stand against LifeWise Academy, an evangelical Christian nationalist group that has found a way to seep into public schools through a legal loophole. They have formed Parents Against LifeWise to shed light on the group's questionable tactics, lack of background che…
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We have a special announcement about the upcoming winter solstice potluck event in December. We reflect on the challenges the group faced during the pandemic and the excitement around reviving this tradition. The decision to have a potluck instead of a catered banquet is discussed, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and removing financial b…
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In this episode, Dethra Giles, CEO of ExecuPrep, talks about the intersectionality of leadership in the political and corporate arenas. Then, I give a report after attending an event to sway Black voters to support Republicans.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/support…
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In this episode, we open with noting a recent US Supreme Court decision in a social media censorship case. Then we discuss the hysteria in Ohio over trans women playing sports and the unconstitutional Ten Commandments law recently enacted in Louisiana. We explore how these laws are impacting individuals and communities, especially the LGBTQ+ commun…
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We discuss the impact of genetics on society, touching on both the positive and dark aspects of the field. We reflect on the work of Dr. Anthony Fauci in combating infectious diseases like HIV-AIDS, Ebola, Zika, and COVID-19. Dr. Fauci's dedication to saving lives and his experiences with various administrations are highlighted, along with the unfo…
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In this episode, Edgar Villanueva, CEO of Decolonizing Wealth Project, talks about the importance of implementing a decolonizing philosophy in corporate and charitable giving. Then, I make a pitch to my listeners for their assistance in manifesting a major achievement/opportunity for the podcast.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.…
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A recent bill introduced by Christian Nationalists in Ohio labels the existence of trans individuals as obscene. We look into the implications of such legislation and questions the necessity for laws that perpetuate bigotry towards the LGBTQ community. The significance of Pride Month in June is highlighted, emphasizing the celebration of the LGBTQ …
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In this episode, Dr. Tiffany Manuel, President/CEO of TheCaseMade, explains the concept of strategic casemaking and its impact on social change. Then, Rachael Keri Williams, Executive Director of SOAL: Saving Our Ancestors’ Legacy, talks about her journey towards preserving Lincoln Cemetery in Harrisburg, PA and the movement toward restoring Black …
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Join us as we tackle the controversial presence of LifeWise Academy in Ohio's public schools. LifeWise, a well-funded evangelical group, has been pushing religious classes under the guise of release time religious education. We discuss how they manipulate state laws to recruit elementary students to attend Bible classes off-campus, often misleading…
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In this episode, Sabrina Clarke, The Golden Brain Entrepreneur, explains the challenges of being a female entrepreneur, British politics, and the similar struggles of Africans in the UK. Then, Dr. Agatha Caraballo, Founding Director of the Maurice A. Ferré Institute for Civic Leadership, talks about the work of the institute and the importance of c…
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We delve into the upcoming 2024 election and the current political landscape. There is disbelief in polls showing Trump ahead of Biden, emphasizing the concerning reality of Trump's character and actions. We highlight the stark differences between the two major candidates, pointing out Trump's history of dishonesty, racism, and legal troubles, juxt…
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In this episode, Dr. Dawn Hicks Tafari, Associate Professor at Winston-Salem State University, defines hip-hop feminism and promotes her book, The Journey of Kamau Miller. Then, I offer my opinion about the lack of integrity, honesty, and courage exhibited by Republican leaders. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik…
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In this episode, we confront the realities of urban development and its impact on local communities. Peggy Daly-Masternak, coordinator of the I-475 Neighborhoods Coalition, sits down with us to discuss the group's determined fight against the proposed widening of Interstate 475 in Toledo. Peggy details the coalition's efforts to ensure that the voi…
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In this episode, Dr. Damary Bonilla-Rodriguez explains the concept of her new book, Modern Marianismo, and why it is important for Latina leadership to be recognized. Then, I offer my opinion about presidential debates and attendance at a criminal trial to audition for a job.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fle…
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In this episode, Bridgette Washington, Founder/CEO of RaveVenn App, discusses how her app will better inform young Americans about the political process, and Ty Pinkins, the Democratic Nominee for the United States Senate in Mississippi, talks about his campaign efforts.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1…
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Could Ohio's latest law be a seismic shift toward religious indoctrination in public schools? We grapple with the state's decision to allow Bible classes during school hours, and the societal tremors it's causing. Explore with me the backlash from an Ohio State Representative against cities supporting abortion rights, despite Ohio's recent Abortion…
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Have you ever wondered how to mark life's transitions without relying on traditional religious ceremonies? Megan Sheldon, co-founder and CEO of Be Ceremonial, joins us to illuminate the world of humanist rituals. Megan shares her inspiring journey from personal grief to empowering others in creating secular ceremonies that resonate with their authe…
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In this episode, Jeanné Lewis, interim CEO of Faith in Public Life, explains the mission of the organization and the importance of establishing a community of belonging. Then, I conclude with why it is imperative for all of us to be centered in moral responsibility.--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/erik-fleming1/supp…
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In this episode, former news anchor and print journalist Marty Davis looks into her crystal ball to see, and assess, what’s happening in our political world. Then, MiDian Holmes, Founder/CEO of The Epitome of Black Excellence & Partnership, updates us on the seeking of justice for Elijah McClain, as well as the work she is doing in the Denver, Colo…
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America is facing a tipping point in potentially losing its democracy in 2024, particularly if Trump wins the upcoming election. White Christian nationalists are identified as a significant influence pushing the country towards this tipping point. We take a deep dive into the concept of Christian nationalism, which conflates American identity with …
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We take a very deep dive into the topic of White Christian Nationalism and why it is an existential threat to the religious freedom for all of us. Then we hear from keynote speaker Dr. Anthea Butler at the recent Summit for Religious Freedom, who well versed on the danger we are facing. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merc…
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In this episode, Kevin A. Sabet, Ph.D., President/CEO of Smart Approaches to Marijuana, talks about his concerns over the legalization of marijuana in America and Malia C. Lazu, DEI consultant and author of From Intention to Impact, explains how Corporate America can successfully commit to a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.--- Support t…
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In this episode, Stephen M. Cohn, Trauma Surgeon and author of All Bleeding Stops, talks about the state of trauma care in America and Saleha Mohsin, Senior Washington Correspondent for Bloomberg News and author of Paper Soldiers, explains how the US Dollar has been weaponized in international policy. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.sp…
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We delve into the complex topic of free speech and its limits. Free speech is not an absolute right and there can be the regulation of speech in certain contexts. A prime example is in a nearby conservative town where a vocal individual disrupts city council meetings with personal attacks on the mayor, correctly leading to the consideration of new …
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In this episode, Evelyn LaChappelle, founder of The Weed Lady Gift Shop/lifestyle brand, talks about her mission to be a successful entrepreneur and an advocate for the formerly incarcerated. Then, Dr. C. Nicole Mason, founder of Future Forward Women, discusses the importance, and challenges, of empowering women in America.--- Support this podcast:…
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