Secular Left

Douglas Berger
  • 5.0 (1)
  • POLITICS

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.

  1. Whiskey Pete and the American Taliban Reporting for Duty

    DEC 9

    Whiskey Pete and the American Taliban Reporting for Duty

    As December temperatures plunge below freezing, it becomes painfully apparent that while churches often advocate for helping the underprivileged, their doors frequently remain closed when it matters most. A homeless man was found dead in Toledo, raising critical questions about why faith-based institutions do not open their doors as warming centers during dire circumstances. With many churches only utilized a few times a week, it seems they could make a meaningful difference during these harsh conditions. Instead, many individuals within the church community have seemingly bought into the stigmatization of the homeless, seeing them as "dirty" or morally culpable rather than as fellow humans deserving of compassion. Then we note the troubling rise of right-wing influence in the media, particularly through a CBS prime-time town hall featuring Erika Kirk, widow of far-right figure Charlie Kirk. The event, moderated by conservative commentator Bari Weiss, is framed as an exploration of grief, faith, and politics. The event is propaganda that perpetuates harmful narratives around women's roles, echoing the anti-feminist sentiments that Charlie Kirk espoused before his death. Erica's position as the new face of Kirk's organization is rife with irony. A former businesswoman, she is now expected to uphold her late husband's regressive vision of womanhood, which discourages career pursuits in favor of traditional domestic roles. We then look at the potential severing of ties between the U.S. military and Scouting America due to the organization's evolving stance on inclusiveness, particularly with the inclusion of girls and LGBTQ+ individuals. The federal government should cut ties, years ago, because the scouts exclude atheists. We also slip in an update on legal developments involving Pastor Chris Avell and his efforts to operate a homeless shelter in his church’s complex, in Bryan, Ohio, as he battles local ordinances. The situation raises significant questions about the intersection of religious freedom and public safety. Full Show Notes & Links Used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter(for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon

    45 min
  2. Splitting Epstein's Hair & Antisemitism

    NOV 22

    Splitting Epstein's Hair & Antisemitism

    We look at a concerning aspect of the LifeWise Academy's curriculum, which has been accused of promoting anti-Semitic teachings to children. We look at specific examples from the curriculum that seem to frame Jewish individuals as antagonists in the narrative surrounding Jesus Christ. Is it appropriate to be teaching such material to impressionable young minds, reinforcing harmful stereotypes rather than promoting understanding or compassion? Next we talk about an officer with the Toledo Fire Department who was terminated for voicing indifference following the murder of conservative figure Charlie Kirk. The action raises broader concerns about free speech and political expression, especially considering that conservative ideologies often cry foul over cancellation when they face criticism or consequences for their statements. Updating the ongoing Epstein saga, we’ve shifted into a phase where discussions on the age of victims have become disturbingly prevalent. This has reignited arguments about the nuances of consent as some right-wing figures attempt to minimize the severity of allegations connected to Epstein by suggesting distinctions between minors and young adults. We call out the moral bankruptcy of these arguments and the vast historical context surrounding the harmful trope of blaming individuals instead of the systemic issues that allow for such abuses. So of course the Catholic League wants to get on the age of the victim bandwagon. We also add the voice of Rebecca Watson who takes the rich and powerful to task over the child abuse and trafficking detailed in the Epstein case especially as it touches some of the people in the science and freethought movement. Full Show Notes & Links Used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter(for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon

    41 min
  3. Holy War on Public Schools: How Lifewise & "Off-School Property" Film Misleads on Religious Education

    OCT 28

    Holy War on Public Schools: How Lifewise & "Off-School Property" Film Misleads on Religious Education

    We take a close look at the infomercial/documentary titled "Off-School Property," produced by LifeWise Academy, which claims to present a solution around the separation of church and state in education to have kids learn the Holy Bible. Released in over 700 theaters, this film promotes LifeWise Academy's approach to religious education during public school hours by manipulating facts and narratives to bolster their claims. LifeWise boasts approximately $35 million in donations yet the organization struggles with uneven enrollment figures across various regions. Their film aims to mask such challenges with slick production value and emotionally charged testimonials, thus creating a facade of widespread acceptance and appeal. We dissect a few key segments from the film, which employs a narrative structure that presents a problem — public school neutrality regarding religion — and follows up with the purported solution offered by LifeWise. Through the use of audio clips from the film, we will highlight instances where their portrayal of facts strays far from reality. We also touch on the film's interpretation of the secularization of public education. The documentary argues that schools’ neutral stance toward religion is inherently hostile, misrepresenting foundational legal principles surrounding the separation of church and state. The film  oversimplifies the complexities of diverse beliefs within a pluralistic society. Many families already have the option to pursue religious education through private institutions if they choose not to utilize the public school system. The film's claims fail to acknowledge that public education serves all students, regardless of their faith, thereby necessitating a neutral, non-preferential environment. Lifewise leans on the voluntary aspect of their program but their ultimate goal is to integrated with the public school like gym and art. Full Show Notes & Links Used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter(for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon

    45 min
  4. The Trumpian Assault on Voting, Race, and Freedom of Religion

    OCT 17

    The Trumpian Assault on Voting, Race, and Freedom of Religion

    We discuss the resurgence of racism, particularly in this era of Trump’s rule. We start the journey talking about church-state separation in public schools, demonstrating the systematic violation of children’s rights when religious teachings are integrated in their education through policy created by Christian nationalists. This reversal of argumentation has prompted troubling precedent in some recent legal battles, including the notorious example of a football coach praying on the field that illustrates a dangerous narrative toward endorsement of religious activity in schools and how that leads to the latest conservative pushback on race and gender scholarships that is compounding systemic inequities not resolving them. The US Supreme Court is also poised to gut the Voting Rights Act to help dilute Black voting power since there are Black people in Congress and the conservatives believe that means voting rights protections aren't needed. Transitioning to legislative developments, we examine a current bill in Ohio that was passed which would regulate the administration of overdose reversal drugs in schools, and was later amended to include provisions favorable to LifeWise Academy. The unthinkingly adopted passage of this amendment along partisan lines raises serious questions of transparency in governance and the continuance of favoring religious instruction during school hours at the expense of the fair funding of real rational education. We then examine the connotations of President Trump's National Security Presidential Memorandum, in which those who oppose Trump and his policies are viewed as potential foes. The new measure aims to repress and silence all forms of political dissent. Building off that historical overreach, with some links to the past, we encourage listeners to be on their toes, aware and watchful — that engaging and informing each other on our rights is critical in standing up when the tide of intolerance and authoritarian government approaches.  Full Show Notes & Links Used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter(for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon

    50 min
  5. Kirk's Corpse on Parade and Nestor's Progressive Truth

    SEP 23

    Kirk's Corpse on Parade and Nestor's Progressive Truth

    We start with the divisive legacy of Charlie Kirk, whose recent death has sparked a wave of controversy and hypocrisy from the far right. We begin by dissecting the blatant attempts to martyr Kirk, likening their efforts to a modern-day propaganda campaign reminiscent of Horst Wessel from the Nazi party era. We fervently argue against the glorification of a man who was a "racist" and "bigot," emphasizing how Kirk's sole purpose was to spread division and chaos through his flare for inciting fake debates on college campuses and his podcasts — all while profiting from his inflammatory rhetoric. From supporting January 6 insurrectionists to making harmful remarks about marginalized communities, we expose Kirk’s toxic legacy and the right's grotesque eagerness to canonize him posthumously. Then to cleanse our palate, we have a discussion with Sean Nestor, a progressive activist in the Toledo area, who brings a fresh perspective on the current political landscape. He tackles the often-heard sentiment that voting doesn't matter, challenging the notion that both major parties are equally to blame for the political malaise. Sean argues for a more nuanced understanding of the electoral process, advocating for the potential impact of local and state-level elections, and emphasizing the need to actively participate even in a flawed system. The conversation highlights the importance of engagement in various political contexts and the necessity to build alternatives to the traditional two-party system. We look at one solution to the problem by using ranked-choice voting, reflecting on its historical roots in Ohio and its potential to give voice to third parties and independent candidates. We express disappointment with current Republican efforts to suppress this voting method, linking it to broader trends of giving the powerful even more control at the electorate's expense. Sean raises critical points about representation and articulates a vision for a more inclusive political dialogue, particularly for the disenchanted voters who feel alienated by the status quo. Full show notes and links used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter(for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon

    1h 9m
  6. Ramaswamy: Why Did Unions Back a "Tech Bro" Union-Buster?

    SEP 9

    Ramaswamy: Why Did Unions Back a "Tech Bro" Union-Buster?

    We're calling out the blatant hypocrisy of Congressman Bob Latta and the GOP's latest con: rebranding Trump's tax cuts. They're trying to sell you a "Working Family Tax Cut," but the truth is, it's a handout to the rich that guts vital programs like Medicaid and SNAP. We'll expose how they're twisting the truth, even when the polls show that most people—including Republicans—aren't buying it. Are you ready to see through the smoke and mirrors? Then, we're turning the spotlight on the dangerous game of putting questionable characters in charge of our health. We're talking about Robert Kennedy Jr. and his anti-vax agenda. We'll look at the consequences of promoting conspiracy theories and the very real threat of diseases making a comeback.  Finally we'll expose a shocking betrayal: an Ohio Union Council endorsing Vivek Ramaswamy, a self-proclaimed "tech bro" whose party has a history of stomping on workers' rights. Get ready to have your mind blown! This episode is your wake-up call. Are you ready to listen? Full show notes and links used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter(for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon

    38 min
  7. The Vanishing Voice of Liberty: Where Did the Libertarians Go?

    AUG 26

    The Vanishing Voice of Liberty: Where Did the Libertarians Go?

    We plunge headfirst into the alarming surge of authoritarianism gripping society, pointedly highlighting the conspicuous silence of self-proclaimed libertarians in the face of blatant governmental overreach. As federal troops patrol urban communities, we question the deafening quiet from those who ostensibly champion individual freedoms and civil liberties. It is perplexing to see libertarian support for figures like Donald Trump, whose policies have often expanded, rather than curtailed, governmental powers. It is argued that libertarians have seemingly abandoned their core principles in favor of populist sentiments, failing to uphold the traditional pillars of liberty amidst shifting political alliances. We also dissect the controversial figure of Representative Jim Jordan, scrutinizing his role in defending individuals with deeply troubling pasts, including the recently spotlighted case of Ghislaine Maxwell. We expose the profound irony of Jordan advocating for a known sex trafficker, especially given his own historical allegations of turning a blind eye to sexual abuse during his tenure as a wrestling coach. This stark juxtaposition not only dismantles the credibility of his narrative but also ignites serious questions about accountability and integrity within the highest echelons of political discourse. Further unsettling revelations emerge with the spotlight on LifeWise Academy, a Christian nationalist initiative that has amassed a staggering $35 million in donations. The operation is unflinchingly likened to a pyramid scheme, where local communities bear the brunt while the organization reaps substantial profits from their efforts. Full Show Notes & Links Used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter(for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon

    32 min
  8. Politicians and MAHA Influencers: Masters of Science Misinformation

    AUG 7

    Politicians and MAHA Influencers: Masters of Science Misinformation

    Congressman Mike Flood's recent town hall, promoting Medicaid work requirements, wasn't just a political event; it was a microcosm of the war on facts.  Flood, while commendable for engaging directly with constituents, peddled a narrative devoid of scientific backing, painting a picture of able-bodied individuals leeching off the system. This blatant disregard for the reality that many Medicaid recipients are already working multiple jobs, juggling financial precarity and healthcare needs, is a dangerous form of political theater, designed to scapegoat the vulnerable and further erode the social safety net. The performative outrage surrounding Medicaid conveniently ignores the complexities of healthcare access in America.  Flood's arguments, echoing a chorus of conservative voices, rely on a simplistic, misleading narrative that conveniently ignores the data.  Organizations like the Kaiser Family Foundation have repeatedly debunked the myth of the 'lazy' Medicaid recipient, showcasing the reality of individuals struggling to balance work, family, and debilitating health conditions.  Flood's town hall, rather than a genuine attempt at policy discussion, served as a platform for disseminating misinformation and fueling divisive rhetoric. Dr. Jessica Nurick's counterpoint provides a crucial antidote to this manufactured outrage.  Her work dismantling health misinformation, whether tackling the manipulative narratives of social media influencers or clarifying the science behind nutrition and funding, is a beacon of reason in a sea of manufactured controversy.  The attacks on evidence-based science, exemplified by Flood's rhetoric, are not merely political; they are an assault on public health.  By highlighting the dangers of relying on simplistic narratives and embracing evidence-based policymaking, Dr. Nurick offers a vital path towards a more informed and equitable healthcare system. Full Show Notes & Links Used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter(for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon

    35 min
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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.

Information

  • Creator
    Douglas Berger
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    116
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Secular Left
  • Show Website
    Secular Left