Left Face

Drawing from the profound experiences of military life and the complexities of parenting, Megan—a military spouse and mother to three—joins me to share her unique perspective on the highly charged debate around arming teachers in Colorado Springs' District 20. Our discussion ventures beyond the mere policy implications, touching upon the emotional and psychological effects such measures could have on both educators and students, and the significance of local school board elections in shaping educational integrity.
The safety of our kids in school is a topic that hits close to home for all of us, and Megan's activism in the school community as we grapple with the idea of concealed carry for teachers highlights the broader conversation on how we can best protect our children. We reflect on the FASTER program's initiatives, the potential impact on teachers' psychological wellbeing, and the use of School Resource Officers as an alternative. The heartrending reality of active shooter drills and their impact on our youngest ones is a stirring call to action for every listener concerned with the future of school safety.
But our journey doesn't stop at the school gates; it takes us around the globe as Megan and I explore how different cultures can reshape our political ideologies and the trust we place in our government. From the social safety nets in Germany to the challenges faced by American middle-class families and educators, we tackle the intricacies of economic pressures and the responsibilities we carry in framing a truthful narrative of American history for our children. Join us as we navigate these waters, confronting the critical issues that shape our lives and the world our children will inherit.

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Liz Rosenbaum, a dynamic force in political activism and a candidate for House District 21, joins us to share her journey from history teacher to community organizer. Through her insightful narratives, Liz illustrates how she has harnessed the power of civic engagement to connect individuals and confront injustices. In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked challenges veterans face when entering political discussions and the critical role mentorship plays in political activism. By sharing personal stories and experiences, Liz and co-host Dick Wilkinson demonstrate how proactive involvement and community building can transform political landscapes.
As we navigate the intricacies of local governance, Liz guides us through the impact that elected officials have on education and daily life, particularly in Colorado's House District 21. Her personal reflections on the aftermath of the 2009 budget crisis reveal the struggles faced by local governments in resource allocation, especially in education. Liz's transition from teaching to politics, spurred by experiences in civic leadership, underscores the importance of understanding governmental influence on local communities and the need for accountability and transparency in public office.
The conversation also spotlights the hurdles and victories of running against an absent incumbent, with Liz emphasizing the significance of being present and accountable to constituents. Her grassroots efforts focus on modernizing infrastructure, advocating for fair healthcare policies, and addressing environmental issues like PFAS contamination. Through compelling anecdotes, Liz shares her commitment to introducing legislation that protects rural populations from unfair billing practices and highlights the need for inclusive healthcare policies. The episode concludes with a strong call for community engagement and the importance of grassroots activism in effecting real change.

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Could your city council be sabotaging economic progress? We tackle this bold question by examining the political maneuvering surrounding the cannabis industry in Colorado Springs. With the passage of Ballot Measure 300, recreational cannabis taxation is set to boost the local economy, yet restrictive zoning laws pose a significant hurdle. This episode sheds light on the ongoing tug-of-war between voter mandates and city council actions, fueled by the stark contrast in campaign spending between anti- and pro-cannabis groups.
Why are some Colorado communities clinging to "cannabis-free bubbles," and what does this mean for access to emerging therapies? We confront the cultural and political resistance to cannabis and psychedelic therapies, focusing on the impact of these restrictions on veterans and first responders. As the state transitions from medical-only to recreational cannabis sales, we explore the tension between local ordinances and state licensing, noting how personalities like RFK might influence this evolving landscape.
Has misinformation warped our view of global threats? We unravel the birth of conspiracy theories and the shifting perception of Russia, probing how narratives have been shaped by propaganda and political agendas. This episode critiques the Trump administration's appointments, highlighting the prioritization of loyalty over democratic values. By analyzing these complex issues with a critical lens, we offer insights into the growing polarization in American politics and the moral dilemmas faced by those in power. Join us as we navigate these intricate topics with insight and candor.

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Is the American political landscape teetering on the edge of unprecedented transformation? Join us for an insightful episode of Left Face as we dissect recent events that have left the nation on tenterhooks. We kick off with a curious incident from a Donald Trump rally where a dance session led by the former president bewildered many. However, beneath the entertainment lies a chilling narrative: Trump's alarming rhetoric about the "enemy within" and the potential implications for military engagement with civilians. Our conversation explores the fine line between maintaining military neutrality and the dangers of its politicization, underscoring the critical importance of lawful orders in preserving democracy.
The shadow of Donald Trump's influence continues to cast a long reach over state governors, despite his absence from official power. This episode examines how Trump's enduring impact reshapes political dynamics and could challenge democratic norms if his voter base remains strong, even in the face of Electoral College defeat. We unpack the strategic deployment of National Guard troops during his tenure, questioning the implications of such maneuvers. Through a careful analysis, we highlight the crucial role veterans and citizens play in safeguarding political stability by active civic engagement and participation in the democratic process.
Within the Republican Party, the landscape is shifting, and figures like Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger find themselves navigating treacherous waters due to their opposition to Trump. As these political loyalties unfold, we reflect on the historical parallels to past events like Kent State, warning against unchecked power and authoritarian tendencies. The episode is a clarion call for listeners to vote with intention and awareness, urging a proactive stance against misinformation and heightened rhetoric. In this ever-evolving political climate, staying informed and active in democracy is not just a choice—it's a necessity.

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Adam is a retired Air Force E-8 and has some terrific ideas on our Podcast. This is his first, and really not bad. My first I had to record 3 times to get it right - Adam did this on his first try. In this episode, Adam talks about changes in the VA and the services they provide. Be sure to listen to see how these changes will affect you.

www.EPCCPV.org or [email protected]