What the Hal?? 2.0

Hal Eisner

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 30

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 23: Undue Medical Debt: Erasing Bills and Restoring Hope

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 23Undue Medical Debt: Erasing Bills and Restoring Hope Medical debt can follow people long after they receive care, affecting their finances, credit, and willingness to seek treatment. But one nonprofit is working to provide immediate relief while pushing for broader changes to the healthcare system. In this episode, Hal Eisner speaks with Marisa Clemente, Vice President of Philanthropy at Undue Medical Debt, about how the organization uses charitable donations to purchase large portfolios of qualifying medical debt at steep discounts and erase those bills for people facing financial hardship. The conversation examines the scale of America’s medical-debt crisis, the complicated systems behind healthcare pricing and collections, and practical steps patients can take when reviewing a medical bill. Marisa also explains how donors, healthcare providers, policymakers, and local communities can help relieve existing debt while working toward long-term reform. KEY TOPICS• The scale and impact of medical debt in the United States • How Undue Medical Debt purchases and abolishes qualifying debt • Why medical debt can be acquired for a fraction of its original value • How donations are used to provide relief to financially vulnerable families • Problems involving healthcare pricing, insurance, and billing practices • Why patients should carefully review medical bills for errors • Hospital financial-assistance programs and patient eligibility • The role of philanthropy in expanding medical-debt relief • State and local efforts to limit aggressive collection practices • Why abolishing existing debt must be paired with systemic reform 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 ResourcesUndue Medical Debt https://unduemedicaldebt.org Undue Medical Debt — How Debt Relief Works https://unduemedicaldebt.org/solutions-to-buy-medical-debt/ Consumer Financial Protection Bureau — Medical Debt Resources https://consumerfinance.gov/rules-policy/medical-debt/ KFF — The Burden of Medical Debt in the United States https://kff.org/health-costs/the-burden-of-medical-debt-in-the-united-states/ 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: Medical debt in the United States has become a leading cause of financial instability for families, often forcing difficult choices regarding essential needs.Undue Medical Debt, a nonprofit organization, acquires and abolishes medical debt using charitable donations, providing relief to those in financial distress.The organization utilizes a unique software, Debt Engine, to identify and prioritize patients eligible for debt relief based on specific financial criteria.Healthcare costs in the U.S. contribute significantly to personal bankruptcies, with two-thirds of bankruptcies linked directly to medical expenses.Patients are encouraged to meticulously review their medical bills for errors, as billing mistakes can lead to undue financial burdens.Systemic reform is essential alongside immediate debt relief efforts to ensure that healthcare remains accessible and affordable for all individuals.

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 23: Undue Medical Debt: Erasing Bills and Restoring Hope

  2. Sep 23 ·  Bonus

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 22: Postpartum Depression vs. Psychosis: Warning Signs Families Should Know

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 22 Postpartum Depression vs. Psychosis: Warning Signs Families Should Know What separates postpartum depression from postpartum psychosis—and which warning signs require immediate action? In this episode, Hal Eisner, Hunter Lowry, and Elsa Ramon sit down with psychotherapist Dr. Lynn Ianni to discuss postpartum mental health, including the important differences between postpartum depression and the much rarer postpartum psychosis. Using the Lindsay Clancy case and Hayden Panettiere’s public discussion of postpartum depression as context, they examine warning signs, risk factors, stigma, treatment, and the support systems available to new parents. The conversation also offers guidance for partners, relatives, and friends who are concerned about someone they love. KEY TOPICS • How postpartum depression differs from postpartum psychosis • Why postpartum depression is relatively common while postpartum psychosis is rare • Hallucinations, paranoia, delusions, pressured speech, and detachment from reality • Why persistent, severe insomnia can be an important warning sign • How hormonal changes and sleep deprivation may affect mental health • The role of bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and other prior conditions • How medication changes during pregnancy or postpartum may affect stability • Coordinating care among mental health professionals, OB-GYNs, and support networks • What friends and family can do when someone refuses help • When symptoms require urgent professional help or emergency intervention • The shame and unrealistic expectations surrounding the “perfect mother” • How proactive planning and early intervention may help prevent a crisis Postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis are serious health conditions—not personal failures. Postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency that requires immediate professional evaluation. Recognizing warning signs, reducing shame, and seeking qualified help early can protect both the parent and child. 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: Dr. Lynn Ianni https://www.drlynnianni.com National Maternal Mental Health Hotline Call or text: 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) https://mchb.hrsa.gov/national-maternal-mental-health-hotline 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or text: 988 https://988lifeline.org Office on Women’s Health — Postpartum Depression https://womenshealth.gov/mental-health/mental-health-conditions/postpartum-depression If someone is in immediate danger or experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911. 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

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 22: Postpartum Depression vs. Psychosis: Warning Signs Families Should Know

  3. Sep 16

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 21: Psychedelics and Mental Health: Hope, Hype, and the Science

    WHAT THE HAL? PODCAST 2.0 – EPISODE 21Psychedelics and Mental Health: Hope, Hype, and the ScienceInterest in psychedelic-assisted therapy has grown dramatically in recent years, but where does the science stand today? Which treatments are showing promise, and what misconceptions still exist? In this episode, Hal Eisner sits down with Dr. Michael White, Distinguished Professor and Chair of the Department of Pharmacy Practice at the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, to discuss the emerging research surrounding psychedelic-assisted therapy for mental health conditions. Together, they examine the evidence behind substances such as psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine, exploring their potential role in treating PTSD, depression, and other mental health disorders. The conversation also addresses safety considerations, ongoing clinical trials, and the importance of separating scientific evidence from popular misconceptions. KEY TOPICS• The current state of psychedelic-assisted therapy research • Understanding the differences between psilocybin, MDMA, and ketamine • Emerging treatments for PTSD, depression, and treatment-resistant mental illness • What current clinical trials are revealing • Potential risks, benefits, and patient safety considerations • Why professional medical supervision is essential • The evolving regulatory landscape for psychedelic therapies • Common myths and misconceptions about psychedelic medicine • How researchers evaluate effectiveness and long-term outcomes • Where the future of psychedelic-assisted treatment may be headed 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 ResourcesUniversity of Connecticut School of Pharmacy https://pharmacy.uconn.edu John Dempsey Hospital https://health.uconn.edu National Institute of Mental Health https://www.nimh.nih.gov National Institute on Drug Abuse https://nida.nih.gov 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 21: Psychedelics and Mental Health: Hope, Hype, and the Science

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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

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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
    24
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Hal Eisner 2026
  • Show Website
    What the Hal?? 2.0