What the Hal?? 2.0

Hal Eisner
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Veteran FOX 11 journalist Hal Eisner has spent a lifetime telling stories. Now he’s continuing the conversation. In this new chapter of What the Hal??, Hal sits down with newsmakers, storytellers, and people doing extraordinary things in everyday life. Expect thoughtful interviews, behind-the-scenes perspectives from a career in journalism, and real discussions about the issues shaping Los Angeles and beyond. It’s news, insight, and curiosity—through the eyes of someone who’s seen it all.

  1. 2d ago

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 17: Flying Animals to Safety: The Inspiring Mission of Flying Tails

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 17Flying Tails: Saving Lives One Flight at a TimeWhat happens when an award-winning television journalist combines a passion for aviation with a love of animals? A nonprofit that's giving thousands of animals a second chance. In this episode, Hal Eisner sits down with Ken Wayne, founder of Flying Tails, to discuss how volunteer pilots transport shelter pets, injured wildlife, and disaster-displaced animals to safety across California and beyond. From rescuing orphaned bear cubs and bald eagles to helping overcrowded shelters find homes for adoptable pets, Ken shares the inspiring stories behind this unique aviation-based rescue mission. The conversation explores the challenges of animal transportation, the emotional realities facing shelters, and how community volunteers are making a life-saving difference—one flight at a time. KEY TOPICS• How Flying Tails transports rescue animals by air • Ken Wayne's journey from television news anchor to nonprofit founder • Wildlife rescues involving bears, bald eagles, mountain lions, and more • Helping overcrowded animal shelters through volunteer aviation • Emergency animal evacuations during California wildfires • The logistics and safety of transporting animals by aircraft • The importance of spaying, neutering, and responsible pet ownership • Building a nationwide network of volunteer pilots • The emotional impact of animal rescue on shelter workers and volunteers • How the public can support Flying Tails' mission Support the Podcasthttps://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner Original Theme Music by Stuart Pearsonhttps://stuartpearsonmusic.com Listen to Previous Episodeshttps://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal ResourcesFlying Tails https://flyingtails.org Flying Tales (PBS) https://www.pbs.org/show/flying-tales/ Support Flying Tails https://flyingtails.org/support Connect with UsHal Eisner Instagram: https://instagram.com/haleisner Facebook: https://facebook.com/haleisner X: https://x.com/HalEisner Elsa Ramon Instagram: https://instagram.com/elsamramon X: https://x.com/ElsaMRamon Hunter Lowry Instagram: https://instagram.com/serendipitychick Takeaways: The nonprofit organization Flying Tails, founded by Ken Wayne, transports rescue animals across California to ensure their safety and well-being.Ken Wayne discusses his transition from an award-winning television journalist to a dedicated animal rescue pilot, highlighting the emotional impact of his work.The podcast emphasizes the critical issue of overcrowded animal shelters, where many animals face euthanasia if not relocated to more accommodating facilities.Flying Tails operates a nationwide network of volunteer pilots, facilitating the urgent transport of animals during emergencies, such as wildfires.Ken shares poignant stories of wildlife rescues, including transporting orphaned bear cubs and injured bald eagles to rehabilitation centers.The conversation addresses the logistical challenges of safely transporting animals by air and the importance of responsible pet ownership in preventing shelter overcrowding. Companies mentioned in this episode: Flying TailsCalifornia Fish and WildlifeSan Diego Humane Society's Wildlife CenterPacific Wildlife CareMarine Mammal CenterLA Animal ServicesHollywood Huskies

  2. Jul 15

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 16: Exploring the New mRNA Flu Vaccine: A Paradigm Shift in Prevention

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 16 New mRNA Flu Vaccine: Could It Change the Future of Medicine? Could a new generation of mRNA vaccines dramatically improve protection against seasonal influenza and change the future of infectious disease prevention? In this episode, Hal Eisner sits down with physician Dr. Steve Goldberg to discuss the science behind the next generation of mRNA flu vaccines. They explore how this technology differs from traditional influenza vaccines, what clinical trials are revealing, and why researchers believe mRNA may become one of the biggest advancements in vaccine development in decades. The conversation also examines recent Cyclospora outbreaks making headlines, vaccine safety, misinformation surrounding mRNA technology, food safety, and practical ways to reduce your risk of infectious diseases at home and while traveling. KEY TOPICS • Why seasonal flu vaccines don't always match circulating strains • How mRNA technology works differently than traditional flu vaccines • What current clinical trials reveal about next-generation influenza vaccines • Vaccine safety and addressing common misconceptions • The FDA approval process and what comes next • How mRNA technology could transform future infectious disease prevention • Recent Cyclospora outbreaks and protecting yourself from foodborne illness • Safe food handling and washing fresh fruits and vegetables • The importance of evidence-based medicine and peer-reviewed science • Practical health recommendations for everyday life and travel Support the Podcast https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner Original Theme Music by Stuart Pearson https://stuartpearsonmusic.com Listen to Previous Episodes https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal Resources HealthTrackRx https://healthtrackrx.com Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Influenza https://www.cdc.gov/flu FoodSafety.gov https://www.foodsafety.gov World Health Organization https://www.who.int Connect with Us Hal Eisner Instagram: https://instagram.com/haleisner Facebook: https://facebook.com/haleisner X: https://x.com/HalEisner Elsa Ramon Instagram: https://instagram.com/elsamramon X: https://x.com/ElsaMRamon Hunter Lowry Instagram: https://instagram.com/serendipitychick

  3. Jul 8

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 15: LA City Library at 100: Innovation, Community...

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 15 LA City Library at 100: Innovation, Community and a Century of Learning For 100 years, the Los Angeles Public Library has served as a cornerstone of education, culture, and community engagement. But today’s library is much more than books on shelves. In this episode, Hal Eisner, Elsa Ramon, and Hunter Lowry explore the past, present, and future of the Los Angeles Public Library with library leaders Christina Rice and Madeline Peña Feliz. From podcast studios and 3D printers to museum passes and technology lending programs, the conversation highlights how libraries continue to evolve to meet the needs of modern communities. The discussion also looks back at the devastating 1986 Central Library fire, the community effort that helped rebuild one of Los Angeles’ most treasured institutions, and how libraries are preserving history while embracing emerging technologies. KEY TOPICS • Celebrating the Los Angeles Public Library’s 100th anniversary • How libraries have evolved beyond traditional books and reading rooms • The Octavia Lab and the growing role of technology in public libraries • Library programs supporting immigrants, students, and lifelong learners • Free access to museum passes, hotspots, STEM kits, and technology through a library card • The impact of the 1986 Central Library fire and the community’s recovery efforts • Preserving history through archives, artifacts, and time capsules • The future of libraries in a digital world • Career opportunities in library science and public service • Why libraries remain one of the most valuable free resources available to communities Support the podcast https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson https://stuartpearsonmusic.com Listen to Previous Episodes https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal RESOURCES & LINKS https://lapl.org https://lapl.org/central100 https://lapl.org/branches/central-library https://lapl.org/tech2go https://libbyapp.com CONNECT Hal Eisner https://instagram.com/haleisner/ https://facebook.com/haleisner/ https://x.com/HalEisner Elsa Ramon https://instagram.com/elsamramon/ https://x.com/ElsaMRamon Hunter Lowry https://instagram.com/serendipitychick/

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 15: LA City Library at 100: Innovation, Community...

  4. Jul 1

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 14: Audubon Beyond Birds

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 14 Audubon Beyond Birds — Conservation, Education, and Community Impact Bird conservation is only part of the story. In this episode, Hal Eisner, Elsa Ramon, and Hunter Lowry sit down with Kathy Barton, President of the San Fernando Valley Audubon Society, to explore how one local organization is making a lasting impact through environmental education, habitat preservation, wildfire prevention, and community engagement. Named Nonprofit of the Year by the California Association of Nonprofits, the San Fernando Valley Audubon Society is helping protect local ecosystems while inspiring future generations to become environmental stewards. KEY TOPICS • Why the San Fernando Valley Audubon Society was named Nonprofit of the Year • Habitat preservation and community-led conservation efforts • Birds as environmental indicators and what they tell us about ecosystem health • The importance of the Sepulveda Basin as a migratory bird habitat • Educational programs that introduce students to nature through hands-on learning • The role of birds, pollinators, and predators in maintaining ecological balance • Using technology like the Merlin Bird ID app to connect people with nature • Innovative wildfire prevention efforts using goat grazing • The post-pandemic rise in birdwatching and outdoor engagement • Protecting bird populations through responsible pet ownership and habitat-friendly practices Support the podcast https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson https://stuartpearsonmusic.com Listen to previous episodes https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal RESOURCES & LINKS https://sfvaudubon.org https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/machine-learning/merlin-bird-id-app/ https://www.cattios.com https://instagram.com/audubonsociety CONNECT Hal Eisner https://instagram.com/haleisner/ https://facebook.com/haleisner/ https://x.com/HalEisner Elsa Ramon https://instagram.com/elsamramon/ https://x.com/ElsaMRamon Hunter Lowry https://instagram.com/serendipitychick/

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 14: Audubon Beyond Birds

  5. Jun 17

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 13: El Niño Explained: Weather, Climate and the Impacts Ahead

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 13 El Niño Explained: Weather, Climate and the Impacts Ahead What exactly is El Niño, and why can warming water in the Pacific Ocean influence weather patterns around the world? In this episode, Hal Eisner is joined by former FOX 11 meteorologist Rick Dickert for a clear and accessible look at the science behind El Niño and La Niña. Rick explains how these natural climate patterns form, why they matter, and what a strengthening El Niño could mean for rainfall, storms, wildfires, and hurricane activity. The conversation explores the global impacts of El Niño, how weather agencies forecast changing conditions in the Pacific, and the relationship between natural climate variability and long-term climate change. Rick also discusses why even small changes in ocean temperatures can have significant consequences and how accurate forecasting helps communities prepare for seasonal weather impacts. KEY TOPICS • What is El Niño and how does it form? • Understanding the differences between El Niño and La Niña • How warming Pacific Ocean temperatures influence weather around the globe • Why El Niño can bring drought to some regions and increased rainfall to others • The potential impacts of a strengthening El Niño on storms, flooding, and wildfires • How El Niño affects hurricane activity in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans • The relationship between natural climate variability and climate change • Why small temperature changes can have major effects on weather patterns • How meteorologists use forecast models to prepare communities for future conditions Support the podcast https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson https://stuartpearsonmusic.com Listen to Previous Episodes https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal RESOURCES & LINKS https://climate.gov https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov https://weather.gov CONNECT Hal Eisner https://instagram.com/haleisner/ https://facebook.com/haleisner/ https://x.com/HalEisner Elsa Ramon https://instagram.com/elsamramon/ https://x.com/ElsaMRamon Hunter Lowry https://instagram.com/serendipitychick/

  6. Jun 10

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 12: Is kindness the path to happiness?

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 12 The Science of Kindness — Why It Matters More Than Ever Kindness, human connection, and the science behind positive behavior are at the center of this conversation with experts from Kindness.org. In this episode, Hunter Lowry leads a discussion exploring how kindness impacts happiness, mental health, relationships, and communities—and why intentional acts of kindness can create ripple effects far beyond the original interaction. From scientific research and social media behavior to practical ways of building a more compassionate society, this episode examines why kindness matters now more than ever. KEY TOPICS • The difference between kindness and politeness • Scientific research connecting kindness and happiness • How kindness positively impacts communities and observers • Measuring kindness through research and behavioral studies • Social media’s influence on kindness and cruelty • Practical ways to intentionally practice kindness • Why kindness is essential to stronger communities and relationships Support the podcast https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson https://stuartpearsonmusic.com Listen to previous episodes https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal RESOURCES & LINKS https://kindness.org https://kindness.org/kq CONNECT Hal Eisner https://instagram.com/haleisner/ https://facebook.com/haleisner/ https://x.com/HalEisner Elsa Ramon https://instagram.com/elsamramon/ https://x.com/ElsaMRamon Hunter Lowry https://instagram.com/serendipitychick/

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 12: Is kindness the path to happiness?

  7. Jun 3

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 11: ICE Raids and Your Rights — What You Need to Know

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 11 ICE Raids and Your Rights — What You Need to Know Constitutional rights, public recording laws, and legal protections during ICE raids are at the center of this conversation with legal expert Ugo Lord. In this episode, Hal Eisner, Elsa Ramon, and Hunter Lowry discuss what individuals should understand about warrants, public interactions with law enforcement, recording rights, and legal boundaries during enforcement actions. From practical safety considerations to constitutional protections, this episode explores how individuals can better understand their rights in high-stress legal situations. KEY TOPICS • Constitutional rights during ICE raids and law enforcement encounters • Recording law enforcement activity and First Amendment protections • Understanding warrants and home entry procedures • Public interactions, detentions, and disengagement strategies • Identifying law enforcement and understanding legal boundaries • Legal considerations involving youth safety and parental responsibility • Practical steps during searches and enforcement situations Support the podcast https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson https://stuartpearsonmusic.com Listen to previous episodes https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal RESOURCES & LINKS https://instagram.com/ugolord https://ugolord.com https://amazon.com/s?k=An+Accidental+Career+Hal+Eisner CONNECT Hal Eisner https://instagram.com/haleisner/ https://facebook.com/haleisner/ https://x.com/HalEisner Elsa Ramon https://instagram.com/elsamramon/ https://x.com/ElsaMRamon Hunter Lowry https://instagram.com/serendipitychick/

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 11: ICE Raids and Your Rights — What You Need to Know

  8. May 27

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 10: Special Olympics — The Power of Inclusion Through Sports

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 10 Special Olympics — The Power of Inclusion Through Sports Inclusion, community, and the life-changing impact of sports are at the center of this conversation about the Special Olympics. In this episode, Hal Eisner, Elsa Ramon, and Hunter Lowry discuss how Special Olympics programs create opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities through sports, support systems, and community engagement. From healthcare partnerships and sensory-friendly environments to volunteerism and major upcoming competitions, this episode explores how inclusion through sports can strengthen both individuals and communities. KEY TOPICS • The difference between the Special Olympics and Paralympics • How Special Olympics programs support inclusion and belonging • Brandon’s experience as a multi-sport athlete • The importance of mental health, confidence, and social connection • Volunteer support, coaching, and healthcare partnerships • Sensory-friendly spaces and accessibility at events • The impact of social media and digital platforms on inclusion efforts • Upcoming Special Olympics events and competitions Support the podcast https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson https://stuartpearsonmusic.com Listen to previous episodes https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal RESOURCES & LINKS https://sosc.org https://2026speciallympicsusagames.org CONNECT Hal Eisner https://instagram.com/haleisner/ https://facebook.com/haleisner/ https://x.com/HalEisner Elsa Ramon https://instagram.com/elsamramon/ https://x.com/ElsaMRamon Hunter Lowry https://instagram.com/serendipitychick/

    WHAT THE HAL?? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 10: Special Olympics — The Power of Inclusion Through Sports
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About

Veteran FOX 11 journalist Hal Eisner has spent a lifetime telling stories. Now he’s continuing the conversation. In this new chapter of What the Hal??, Hal sits down with newsmakers, storytellers, and people doing extraordinary things in everyday life. Expect thoughtful interviews, behind-the-scenes perspectives from a career in journalism, and real discussions about the issues shaping Los Angeles and beyond. It’s news, insight, and curiosity—through the eyes of someone who’s seen it all.

Information

  • Creator
    Hal Eisner
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Hal Eisner 2026
  • Show Website
    What the Hal?? 2.0