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. Sep 2

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 20: Kindness Is Free: Building Stronger Communities Through Compassion

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 20Kindness Is Free: Building Stronger Communities Through CompassionCan kindness really change lives? According to author and speaker Scott Aylor, the answer is a resounding yes. In this episode, Hal Eisner welcomes Scott Aylor, founder of Kindness Is Free, to discuss how simple acts of compassion can strengthen communities, improve mental well-being, and inspire positive change. Through personal stories and practical examples, Scott explains why kindness isn’t just a feel-good concept—it’s a powerful tool for building stronger relationships at home, in schools, and throughout society. The conversation explores how intentional kindness can combat bullying, encourage empathy, and create a ripple effect that reaches far beyond a single interaction. KEY TOPICS• The inspiration behind the Kindness Is Free movement • Why kindness is a learned behavior that can be practiced daily • Building stronger communities through compassion • The impact of kindness on mental health and well-being • Teaching empathy to children and young adults • Combating bullying through positive action • How small acts of kindness create lasting change • The importance of gratitude and human connection • Practical ways anyone can spread kindness every day • Scott Aylor’s vision for a more compassionate future 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 ResourcesKindness Is Free https://kindnessisfree.org Scott Aylor https://scottaylor.com 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: According to Scott Aylor, kindness is a powerful tool that can transform communities and improve mental well-being.The Kindness Is Free movement emphasizes that kindness is a learned behavior that can be practiced daily by individuals of all ages.Simple acts of compassion can create a ripple effect, inspiring further acts of kindness throughout society.Teaching empathy to children and young adults is essential in combating bullying and fostering a more compassionate future. Companies mentioned in this episode: Kindness is FreeBoys and Girls ClubUnion Rescue MissionWorthy of Love

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 20: Kindness Is Free: Building Stronger Communities Through Compassion

  2. Aug 19

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 19: Meow Wolf: Inside the Immersive Art Experience

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 19Meow Wolf: Inside the Immersive Art ExperienceWhat happens when art, technology, storytelling, and imagination collide? The result is Meow Wolf—an immersive experience that's redefining how people engage with art and entertainment. In this episode, Hal Eisner explores the creative world of Meow Wolf with members of its artistic team, discussing how these larger-than-life installations blend visual art, interactive storytelling, technology, and community collaboration into one unforgettable experience. From the company's unconventional beginnings to its growing collection of immersive exhibitions across the country, the conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the artists, designers, and visionaries bringing these imaginative worlds to life. KEY TOPICS• What makes Meow Wolf unlike any traditional art exhibit • How immersive storytelling drives each experience • The collaborative process behind creating Meow Wolf installations • Supporting local artists and creative communities • The technology behind interactive exhibits • How exhibits continue evolving after they open • The importance of curiosity, exploration, and discovery • Behind-the-scenes maintenance and creative problem-solving • Meow Wolf's expansion into new cities • Why every visitor experiences Meow Wolf differently 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 ResourcesMeow Wolf https://meowwolf.com Meow Wolf Exhibitions https://meowwolf.com/visit AREA15 Las Vegas https://area15.com 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

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 19: Meow Wolf: Inside the Immersive Art Experience

  3. Aug 5

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 18: Empowering Creativity: The Easterseals Disability Film Challenge

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 18Empowering Creativity: The Easterseals Disability Film ChallengeHow can storytelling change perceptions and create new opportunities? The Easterseals Disability Film Challenge is proving that authentic representation can transform both the entertainment industry and the lives of filmmakers with disabilities. In this episode, Hal Eisner sits down with Nick Novicki, founder of the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge, along with award-winning actor, writer, and filmmaker Vincent Rutley, to discuss how the annual film competition has become a launching pad for disabled creators in front of and behind the camera. Together, they explore the importance of authentic representation, inclusive casting, accessible filmmaking, and how storytelling and humor are helping reshape the industry's understanding of disability while opening doors for the next generation of filmmakers. KEY TOPICS• The creation and growth of the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge • Why authentic disability representation matters in film and television • Opportunities for disabled creators both on-screen and behind the camera • Vincent Rutley's journey from actor to award-winning filmmaker • How storytelling and humor help change perceptions about disability • Accessibility, inclusive casting, and industry misconceptions • The supportive community built through the Disability Film Challenge • How the Challenge has inspired more than 1,000 films worldwide • Advice for aspiring filmmakers and actors with disabilities • The future of disability representation in entertainment 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 ResourcesEasterseals Disability Film Challenge https://disabilityfilmchallenge.com HollyShorts Film Festival https://hollyshorts.com Nick Novicki https://disabilityfilmchallenge.com/about/ 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 Easterseals Disability Film Challenge empowers filmmakers with disabilities by providing them opportunities to showcase their talents.Authentic representation of disabilities in film is paramount for changing societal perceptions and promoting inclusivity.The annual film challenge has successfully inspired over 1,000 films globally, fostering a supportive community among disabled creators.Vincent Rutley's journey illustrates the transformative potential of pursuing one's passion in filmmaking despite personal challenges and setbacks.The challenge encourages participants to explore various roles in filmmaking, extending beyond acting to writing, directing, and editing.The increasing demand for authentic disability representation in media signifies progress towards greater inclusivity in the entertainment industry.

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 18: Empowering Creativity: The Easterseals Disability Film Challenge

  4. Jul 22

    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

  5. 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

  6. 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...

  7. 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

  8. 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/

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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
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Hal Eisner 2026
  • Show Website
    What the Hal?? 2.0