The Lightning Strike Radio

tlsradio
  • 5.0 (2)
  • News
  • Updated Weekly

The Lightning Strike Radio isn't backed by corporations, political PACs, or advertisers with agendas. It's powered by you — the listeners who believe Chicago deserves a show that speaks truth, amplifies community voices, and holds power accountable. Every Sunday morning, we bring unfiltered conversation to the airwaves because independent media matters.

Episodes

  1. Aug 9

    The Lightning Strike- August 2, 2026

    In this episode of **The Lightning Strike**, Mohammed Faheem and the TLS team go beyond the headlines to examine the forces shaping American politics, healthcare, and independent media.⚡ *Independent Media Under Threat*Mohammed Faheem delivers a hard hitting monologue on the growing influence of algorithms and artificial intelligence on journalism. As social media platforms increasingly determine what Americans see and what stories receive attention, what happens to independent voices, investigative journalism, and accountability?⚕️ *Advances in Minimally Invasive Pain Treatment*Dr. Salman Sagarwala and Dr. Samir Ahmad from the Pain and Vascular Institute explore emerging medical advances in minimally invasive approaches to pain treatment and what these developments could mean for patients seeking alternatives to more invasive procedures.https://painvascular.com/🗳️ *Michigan Senate Primary and Progressive Organizing*The program examines the growing political movement in Michigan ahead of the Democratic Senate primary, including the role of grassroots organizing, progressive candidates, campaign spending, and the influence of powerful political interests.🏙️ *Chicago's First Ward: Housing and Crime*Alderman *Daniel La Spada* joins Marie Newman for a discussion about housing, public safety, crime trends, and the challenges facing Chicago's First Ward.⚖️ *Accountability and the ICC*Attorney Maria Mozaffar discusses concerns surrounding accountability and the International Criminal Court, raising important questions about international law, justice, and the institutions responsible for enforcing it.*The Lightning Strike* goes beyond the headlines to ask the questions others may not be asking.📻 *Listen live every Sunday, 8 to 10 AM Central on WCPT 820 AM*🌎 *Streaming worldwide on Heartland Signal*🎙️ *Subscribe and support independent media:**TLSRadio.com*#TheLightningStrike #MohammedFaheem #IndependentMedia #MichiganPolitics #Chicago #ProgressivePolitics #Journalism #AI #Media #ICC #WCPT820 #BeyondTheHeadlines

  2. Jul 27

    The Lightning Strike- July 26, 2026

    The $30 Million Question: Who's Really Choosing Michigan's Next Senator? | The Lightning Strike.This episode kicks off with host Mohamed Faheem's monologue on the Michigan Senate Democratic primary, where Congresswoman Haley Stevens is facing off against Dr. Abdul El Sayed. Faheem digs into the nearly $30 million in outside spending from AIPAC-aligned groups backing Stevens, and asks a question that goes way beyond party lines, when tens of millions of dollars flood into one primary, are voters still deciding the outcome, or is it whoever has the deepest pockets? He also looks at what makes Michigan such a unique battleground, with large Arab American, Muslim, and Jewish communities all watching this race closely, and what it might mean for the future of election spending across the country.Faheem is joined by guest host Ray Hanania, along with regular co-hosts Marie Newman, Mike Patino, Chris Hilbert and Maaria Mozaffar.In the second hour, Congresswoman Marie Newman sits down for an interview with Dr. Abdul El Sayed, followed by attorney Maaria Mozaffar's segment "Breaking the Echo Chamber," focused on why civic engagement matters now more than ever.*In this episode:*🗳️ The Michigan Senate Democratic primary, Haley Stevens vs. Abdul El Sayed💰 AIPAC aligned outside spending and its impact on elections🎙️ Special guest host Ray Hanania🤝 Interview with Dr. Abdul El Sayed, conducted by Rep. Marie Newman📣 "Breaking the Echo Chamber" with attorney Maaria Mozaffar*Hosts:* Mohamed Faheem, with guest host Ray Hanania, and co-hosts Mike Patino & Chris Hilbert#TheLightningStrike #Michigan #Election2026 #AbdulElSayed #HaleyStevens #AIPAC #CampaignFinance #Politics

  3. Jul 21

    The Lightning Strike- July 19, 2026

    This is another powerful episode of The Lightning Strike. Host Mohammed Faheem leads off with a passionate appeal for Americans to come together as a nation of immigrants.Demi Palecek (Democratic Party), running for election to the Illinois House of Representatives to represent District 13, joins the conversation as our 'District Watch' correspondent. She is on the ballot in the general election on November 3, 2026.Andrew Herrera (Herrera Strategy), Mike Patino and Chris Hilbert round up the first hour.In the second hour, in her segment 'Ignore at your risk', Marie Newman brings the focus back on the Iran war, the election fraud nonsense, and the change in the congressional Dems on Israel funding compared to 2022.Marie is followed by Maaria Mozaffar with 'Breaking the echo chamber'.

  4. Jul 15

    The Lightning Strike- July 12, 2026

    The Lightning Strike | Section 224, Water Rate Hikes, Independent Candidates & Political AccountabilityIn tis episode of *The Lightning Strike**, host **Mohammed Faheem* and the panel tackle some of the most pressing political and community issues affecting Americans at the local, state, and national levels.Mohammed opened the show with a powerful monologue examining Section 224 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), raising questions about the future of U.S. military cooperation with Israel, congressional oversight, and whether America's national interests are receiving the attention they deserve.Journalist Ray Hanania joined the discussion to examine the controversy surrounding the proposed designation of a portion of Harlem Avenue as "Little Palestine Way." The conversation explored community identity, cultural recognition, and concerns that other Arab American communities were not included in the proposal.The program featured an in depth interview with Bolingbrook Mayor Mary Alexander Basta, who discussed Illinois American Water's proposed $148 million rate increase and encouraged residents to make their voices heard before the Illinois Commerce Commission. The interview examined the impact of rising utility costs on families and the balance between infrastructure investment and consumer protection.Political strategist Andrew Herrera joined remotely to discuss the dramatic developments in the Maine U.S. Senate race, including the political fallout surrounding former Democratic nominee Graham Platner and the broader implications for campaign politics.Former Congresswoman Marie Newman welcomed Mayra Macias, an independent candidate for Congress, for a conversation about the challenges facing independent candidates in Illinois. They discussed the state's ballot access requirements, signature thresholds, and the barriers that make it difficult for independent voices to compete against major party candidates.The show concluded with Dr. Sheila White's "Person of the Week" segment, featuring Harry Whitledge of Jiffy Lube, who shared practical advice on vehicle maintenance, oil changes, and keeping your car running safely and efficiently.Topics covered: Section 224 of the National Defense Authorization ActU.S. foreign policy and congressional oversightThe "Little Palestine Way" debateIllinois American Water's proposed $148 million rate increaseConsumer advocacy and utility regulationThe Graham Platner Senate campaign controversyIndependent candidates and ballot access in IllinoisPractical vehicle maintenance tips from Jiffy LubeThe Lightning Strike airs every Sunday from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM (Central Time) on WCPT 820 AM, Chicago's Progressive Talk Radio station, and is streamed worldwide.If you value independent journalism and thoughtful conversations that challenge conventional thinking, please like, subscribe, and share.#TheLightningStrike #MohammedFaheem #WCPT820 #Section224 #IllinoisAmericanWater #Bolingbrook #MaryAlexanderBasta #RayHanania #MarieNewman #MyraMacias #GrahamPlatner #IndependentMedia #Politics #CommunityVoices

  5. Jul 8

    The Lightning Strike- July 5, 2026

    This week on The Lightning Strike on WCPT 820 AM, host Mohammed Faheem reflects on America's 250th birthday, examining the nation's democratic foundations and the vital role citizens play in protecting and strengthening democracy through civic engagement and political participation.This episode features another edition of District Watch with Mahnoor Ahmad, Public Health Director, former congressional and DuPage County Board candidate. Mahnoor discusses her grassroots campaign against Congressman Sean Casten, her focus on healthcare, working families, and progressive values, and the challenges she faced from the local Democratic political establishment during her campaign.Former Congresswoman Marie Newman welcomes Chicago Alderwoman Leni Manaa Hoppenworth, who shares the initiatives she is leading in the Chicago City Council and discusses the issues shaping the future of Chicago neighborhoods.Our Person of the Week is TeeJay Mercer, who highlights the inspiring work of her nonprofit initiative, Move In Day Mafia, and explains how the organization is helping people transition into stable housing through community support and volunteer action.We also invite you to join us for The Lightning Strike Fundraising Dinner on Tuesday, July 29, at the Bolingbrook Community Center. Guests will enjoy a delicious dinner catered by Al Bawadi Grill, live music by Bill Shepherd, and an evening emceed by Ray Hanania. Every dollar raised helps keep The Lightning Strike independent, commercial free, and committed to bringing thoughtful conversations and progressive voices to the airwaves.If you enjoy independent journalism, please support the show by subscribing, liking this video, sharing it with your friends, and leaving a comment below.Subscribe:    / @tlsradio  (   / @tlsradio  )Visit: https://www.tlsradio.com (https://www.tlsradio.com)Listen live every Sunday from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM Central on WCPT 820 AM and worldwide through the Heartland Signal network.#TheLightningStrike #MohammedFaheem #WCPT820 #MarieNewman #ChicagoPolitics #DistrictWatch #ProgressivePolitics #Democracy #PublicHealth #Chicago #MoveInDayMafia #IndependentMedia

  6. Jun 30

    The Lightning Strike- June 28, 2026

    The Democratic Party at a Crossroads? | Zohran Mamdani, Supreme Court Decisions, Illinois Politics & America's 250th AnniversaryOn this episode of The Lightning Strike on WCPT 820 AM, host Mohammed Faheem delivers an in depth analysis of the political forces reshaping America, from the rise of progressive candidates to the latest U.S. Supreme Court decisions and the races that could determine the future of Congress.The program opens with a discussion of Zohran Mamdani's stunning victories in New York City, where candidates he endorsed defeated three establishment backed Democratic incumbents. Mohammed examines what these results reveal about growing voter frustration with the political establishment, the increasing influence of progressive politics, and what they could mean for the Democratic Party heading into the 2026 midterm elections.The show also breaks down several significant U.S. Supreme Court decisions involving immigration, asylum policy, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), and presidential trade authority, while previewing major rulings that could reshape executive power, voting rights, and immigration policy.Basim Elkarra joined us to talk about the Unity and Justice Fund, a super PAC dedicated to helping elect progressive candidates across the country. Basim can be reached at belkarra@cairaction.org. Congressional candidate Paul Nolley, who is challenging incumbent Darren LaHood in Illinois' 16th Congressional District, joins the program as the guest of former Congresswoman Marie Newman. Paul discusses his campaign, expanding access to affordable healthcare, bringing manufacturing jobs back to America, supporting organized labor, and ending America's involvement in endless wars. He also shares the personal impact of his grandfather's service in Vietnam, discusses encouraging early polling numbers, and highlights endorsements from the United Auto Workers (UAW), the United Steelworkers, and other labor organizations.In the Person of the Week segment, Victor Felix, brand strategist and master storyteller, explains why compelling storytelling is one of the most powerful tools in politics. Victor discusses how candidates can build authentic connections with voters by communicating values, purpose, and a hopeful vision for the future rather than relying solely on policy proposals.Segment Producers Dr. Sheila White and Chris Hilbert join the conversation to reflect on America's upcoming 250th anniversary, emphasizing the importance of unity, civic engagement, and understanding the nation's founding principles. Chris also recommends the award winning musical 1776 as an inspiring way to learn about America's founding.The episode concludes with a discussion on supporting local candidates, strengthening grassroots organizing, and why community engagement remains the foundation of meaningful political change.Topics covered: Zohran Mamdani and the future of the Democratic PartyProgressive victories in New York CitySupreme Court rulings on immigration and presidential authorityPaul Nolley's campaign for Illinois' 16th Congressional DistrictHealthcare, manufacturing jobs, labor unions, and ending endless warsAmerica's 250th anniversaryVictor Felix on storytelling and political leadershipGrassroots organizing and supporting local candidatesIllinois and national politicsIf you enjoyed this episode, please *Like**, **Subscribe**, and **Share* to help support independent journalism and thoughtful political conversation. Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion.*Follow The Lightning Strike*🌐 [https://www.tlsradio.com](https://www.tlsradio.com)📻 Listen live every Sunday on *WCPT 820 AM*🎙 Hosted by *Mohammed Faheem*#TheLightningStrike #MohammedFaheem #ZohranMamdani #PaulNolley #IllinoisPolitics #SupremeCourt #ProgressivePolitics #Healthcare #LaborUnions #GrassrootsOrganizing #WCPT820 #PoliticalCommentary #AmericanPolitics #Storytelling #Election2026

  7. Jun 29

    The Lightning Strike- June 21, 2026

    🎙️ The Lightning Strike | Presidential Libraries, Data Centers, Aviation Careers & Progressive PoliticsOn this week's episode of The Lightning Strike on WCPT 820 AM, host Mohammed Faheem was joined by co-hosts Dr. Sheila White, Chris Hilbert, Mike Patino, and Morgan Coghill for a lively discussion on politics, public policy, and community issues.The show opened with a Father's Day celebration and a thought-provoking monologue questioning America's spending priorities, including the rising costs of presidential libraries and whether those resources could be better invested in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and other public needs.In the District Watch segment, former congressional candidate Morgan Coghill discussed his work with Northern Illinois Progressives and concerns about a proposed T5 data center in Grayslake. The conversation examined the project's massive energy requirements, potential environmental impacts, and questions about its long-term benefits to the local community.The program also honored James McCoy as the Person of the Week. A former Marine aviator with more than 30 years of aviation experience, McCoy shared his efforts to introduce young people to careers in aviation through youth career days and a new aviation academy initiative.Later in the show, former Congresswoman Marie Newman joined the discussion to compare the Trump and Obama approaches to Iran, reflect on the meaning of patriotism ahead of Independence Day, and highlight progressive candidates focused on delivering practical solutions to everyday challenges facing American families.Topics include:• The cost of presidential libraries and public priorities• The Grayslake T5 data center controversy• Energy, environmental, and community impacts of AI infrastructure• Aviation careers and workforce development opportunities• U.S. policy toward Iran• Independence Day and patriotism• Progressive candidates and grassroots organizing📻 The Lightning Strike airs Sundays on WCPT 820 AM and features independent news, community voices, and conversations that matter.Please like, subscribe, and share to support independent media.#TheLightningStrike #WCPT820 #MohammedFaheem #MarieNewman #MorganCaughill #JamesMcCoy #DataCenters #ProgressivePolitics #IndependentMedia #AviationCareers #CommunityVoices

  8. Jun 28

    The Lightning Strike- June 14, 2026

    What is America really celebrating at 250 years?In this powerful episode of The Lightning Strike, host Mohammed Faheem opens with a thought provoking monologue examining the contradictions of America's 250th anniversary. While billions are spent on celebrations and spectacle, millions of Americans continue to struggle with food insecurity, housing affordability, healthcare costs, and economic uncertainty.Joining Mohammed is guest host Ray Hanania, who weighs in on the controversial proposal to host a UFC fight at the White House, President Trump's political rhetoric, and the growing challenges facing American democracy. Texas activist Chris Hilbert adds her perspective on standing up to political intimidation and confronting bullying in public life.The conversation then turns to Illinois State Senator Rachel Ventura, who discusses her work representing Illinois' 43rd District and her efforts to address some of the state's most pressing issues, including:• Protecting warehouse workers and improving workplace conditions• Addressing the housing crisis by limiting private equity firms from purchasing single family homes• Fighting discrimination and protecting human rights• Examining the impact of artificial intelligence on workers and communities• Immigration policy and social justice concernsSenator Ventura shares insights into her legislation aimed at curbing corporate ownership of residential housing and discusses the challenges lawmakers face in addressing emerging issues such as AI bias, workforce displacement, and the protection of civil liberties in a rapidly changing world.This episode delivers an honest and wide ranging discussion on democracy, economic justice, housing, technology, and the future of America as the nation marks its 250th anniversary.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations that challenge conventional thinking.👍 Like, comment, and share to help independent media grow.📻 The Lightning StrikeSundays 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM CSTWCPT 820 AM#TheLightningStrike #MohammedFaheem #RachelVentura #RayHanania #Politics #IllinoisPolitics #HousingCrisis #ArtificialIntelligence #WorkersRights #Democracy #Trump #WCPT820 #ProgressiveTalkRadio #HumanRights #EconomicJustice

  9. Jun 28

    The Lightning Strike - June 7, 2026

    The Lightning Strike radio show discussed why Israel, a country of 9 million people, has significant influence over American foreign policy decisions affecting a country of 300 million. Mohammed delivered a monologue explaining that this influence stems from multiple factors including the American-Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), pro-Israel donors, evangelical Christian support, the military-industrial complex, and strategic partnerships. The show also featured a new "District Watch" segment with Lynn LaPlante, a DuPage County Board member serving her third term, who discussed her experiences holding local officials accountable and highlighted a recent incident where Republicans on the board attempted to give the Democratic board chair a 35% raise without proper agenda notice. The discussion emphasized the importance of local government oversight and the need for better voter participation.In the second half, Congresswoman Marie Newman gives her take on the Chicago Bears move to Indiana and questioned the role of the Bears ownership and management in this decision.Maaria Mozaffar speaks about the recent Virtual Town Hall she conducted recently featuring faith and community leaders.The Lightning Strike is celebrating our third year at WCPT with our first fundraising dinner on Wednesday, July 29, at the Bolingbrook Community Center, 201 Canterbury Lane in Bolingbrook, Illinois.

  10. May 4

    The Lightning Strike April 26, 2026

    The Lightning Strike radio show discussed economic struggles despite official reports of strong growth, with hosts and guests analyzing how wealth inequality is affecting everyday Americans through rising costs of essentials like food and housing. The conversation covered the recent attempted assassination of President Trump at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, with participants questioning whether it was a setup given the security failures and the president's previous statements about expecting shots to be fired. The show featured an interview with Rep. LaShawn Ford, who discussed his recent primary victory in Illinois's 7th Congressional District and his plans to focus on healthcare, education, and reversing Trump administration policies that benefit the wealthy while harming working families. The discussion also touched on campaign finance reform, particularly regarding AIPAC's influence in elections, and the need for progressive policies including a proposed millionaire's tax amendment that failed to advance due to concerns about funding distribution.

  11. Apr 20

    The Lightning Strike March 29 2026

    The hosts and guests discussed the Republican "Sharia Free America Caucus," with Ahmed Rehab from CAIR explaining that the term "Sharia" simply means "path" or "way" in Arabic and is being misused to divide Americans. Thomas Gary, a Navy veteran, shared his experiences serving in Iraq and the challenges of re-adjusting to civilian life, while Marie Newman discussed the impact of social media on mental health after a significant legal ruling against Meta. The conversation also covered campaign finance reform, with Marie explaining efforts to address Citizens United and potential solutions like expanding the Supreme Court and making DC a state. Reed Bible, a retired DHS special supervisory agent and attorney, concluded by warning about potential abuses when ICE agents are deployed to TSA checkpoints, explaining how this could violate citizens' Fourth Amendment rights.

  • 11 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

The Lightning Strike Radio isn't backed by corporations, political PACs, or advertisers with agendas. It's powered by you — the listeners who believe Chicago deserves a show that speaks truth, amplifies community voices, and holds power accountable. Every Sunday morning, we bring unfiltered conversation to the airwaves because independent media matters.

Information