The Leslie Marshall Show

AFT President Talks Voting Rights & AI; Col. Leighton on China, Iran and Ukraine

The guest host for today's show is Brad Bannon. Brad runs Bannon Communications Research, a polling, message development and media firm which helps labor unions, progressive issue groups and Democratic candidates win public affairs and political campaigns. His show, 'Deadline D.C. with Brad Bannon,' airs every Monday from 3-4pm ET. 

Brad is first joined by Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).
The two discuss black Americans being stripped of their political power following the recent Louisiana v. Callais Supreme Court ruling.
President Weingarten also previews a ten-point speech she'll be giving on how to properly educate our children in the age of AI.  She describes how teachers are seeing the 'muscle of learning' atrophying, and how we need to respond by changing education so that we're building active learning.
She also shares how instead of leading this charge, Trump's Department of Education is instead busy undermining civil rights.
Finally, she and Brad discuss a huge issue on the minds of the American people as they head to November's midterm elections, affordability.  She shares what could be done to change the U.S. tax code to help with this issue.

Then, Brad is joined by CNN Military Analyst Col. Cedric Leighton (USAF-Ret.).
The pair talks about President Trump's recent trip to China, and his refusal to commit to defending Taiwan if China attacked them.
Next, they shift the conversation to the Iran war.  Col. Leighton highlights how President Trump failed to articulate why he was sending our nation to war with Iran. The President also never sought the authorization to use military force from Congress, or even notified the 'gang of eight' before launching military strikes with Israel against Iran.

Finally, Col. Leighton updates the audience on Ukraine's recent success in penetrating Russia's missile defense system in a way that hadn't yet been done in the war.

Randi Weingarten is president of the 1.8 million-member AFT, which represents teachers; paraprofessionals and school-related personnel; higher education faculty and staff; nurses and other healthcare professionals; local, state and federal government employees; and early childhood educators. The AFT is dedicated to the belief that every person in America deserves the freedom to thrive, fueled by opportunity, justice and a voice in our democracy.
Their website is www.AFT.org and their handle on BlueSky is @aftunion.bsky.social.  Randi's handle is @rweingarten.bsky.social.

Col. Cedric Leighton is the Founder and President of Cedric Leighton Associates, a strategic risk and leadership consultancy serving global companies and organizations. He founded the company in 2010, after serving in the US Air Force for 27 years as an Intelligence Officer and attaining the rank of Colonel. His website is www.CedricLeighton.com and his handle on BlueSky is @CedricLeighton.bsky.social.

Brad is on the National Journal's panel of political insiders, is an American political analyst for The Times of India TV, and is a national political analyst for WGN TV and Radio in Chicago and KNX Radio in Los Angeles. Brad also writes a political column every Sunday for 'The Hill.'
You can read his columns at www.MuckRack.com/Brad-Bannon.
His handle on BlueSky is @bradbannon.bsky.social.

Solidarity on the Line: The Breakthru Beverage Strikes

In this episode, Leslie speaks with Jeff Padellaro, Director of the Teamsters Brewery, Bakery, and Soft Drink Conference, about ongoing strikes involving Teamsters workers at Breakthru Beverage in Illinois and Missouri.
Jeff has been a Teamster for nearly 40 years.

He explains why drivers and warehouse workers walked off the job, accusing the company of unfair labor practices and attempting to weaken critical union protections — including workers’ rights to honor Teamsters picket lines. He discusses why those protections matter not just in these disputes, but for the broader strength and solidarity of organized labor.

The conversation also examines the challenges facing newly organized workers in St. Louis who are fighting for a fair first contract, as well as what the union describes as bad-faith bargaining tactics by management.

Throughout the interview, Jeff reflects on nearly four decades as a Teamster and discusses the growing willingness of workers across the country to stand together and push back against corporate pressure.

It’s a candid conversation about labor rights, solidarity, and why these strikes matter far beyond one company.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow them on X @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/Teamsters.

The Parenting Shift That Changed Everything

In this episode, Leslie speaks with parent coach, writer, and speaker Margot Magowan about how Nonviolent Communication (NVC) transformed her relationship with her children—and especially helped her family through a painful mental health crisis involving her oldest daughter.

After years of therapies, hospitalizations, medications, and conflict, Margot says the breakthrough came when she and her husband learned how to truly listen with presence, curiosity, and compassion.

She explains how NVC helped her shift away from trying to control or “fix” behavior and instead understand the feelings and needs beneath it. The conversation explores practical parenting challenges that many families face—from school struggles and emotional outbursts to rules, conflict, and communication—and how changing the way we respond to children can create more trust, safety, and emotional connection.

Margot also discusses the difference between “power-over” and “power-with” parenting, why so many parents feel overwhelmed today, and how emotional regulation begins with the adults in the room.

It’s an honest and compassionate conversation about parenting, connection, and learning how to listen in a whole new way.

Margot's website is Listen2ConnectCoach.com and her handles on Instagram are @Listen2ConnectCoach and @reelgirlreviews.

Voting Rights Are Workers' Rights

In this episode, Leslie speaks with AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond about a Supreme Court ruling the labor movement is calling a dangerous setback for voting rights and working people.

Fred explains why the AFL-CIO sees the decision as part of a broader effort to weaken the political power of working Americans—especially Black, Latino, and Native communities—and how attacks on voting rights are deeply connected to issues like wages, workplace protections, union strength, and economic fairness.

The conversation also explores the historic connection between the labor movement and the civil rights movement, why many Americans feel democracy is becoming less responsive to ordinary people, and what organized labor plans to do next in response.

It’s a powerful discussion about democracy, representation, and why the fight for voting rights remains central to the fight for workers’ rights.

The website for the AFL-CIO is AFLCIO.org and their handle on Blue Sky is @AFLCIO. Their handle on Facebook, Instagram and X is @AFLCIO. Fred's handle on X is @STRedmond.

Brookfield Zoo Workers in Chicago Fight for Fair Pay—and Animal Safety

In this episode, Leslie speaks with Andy Ferris, a longtime animal care specialist at Brookfield Zoo and a member of the Teamsters 727 bargaining committee, about an ongoing labor dispute that could lead to a strike.

Andy shares what’s happening behind the scenes as workers negotiate with the Chicago Zoological Society over staffing levels, safety concerns, wages, and health care. Despite decades of service, many workers are being asked to accept minimal raises while facing rising costs—and potential cuts to long-standing health benefits.
For example, workers were offered less than 4% raises, while the CEO's compensation increased by over 70%! 

The conversation also addresses one of the public’s biggest concerns: the well-being of the animals. Andy explains how workers have contingency plans in place to ensure animals are cared for, while also raising concerns about existing staffing shortages that could already be impacting safety.

Finally, the discussion pushes back on claims from management that higher wages would drive up ticket prices, highlighting broader questions about priorities, cost of living, and how institutions value the people who keep them running.

It’s a candid look at a high-stakes labor fight—one that impacts workers, families, and the animals they care for every day.

For more than 100 years, Teamsters Local 727 has represented the hardworking men and women of the Greater Chicago area.
They currently represent nearly 10,000 members across a multitude of industries, from bus drivers to trade show workers, pharmacists to zookeepers, funeral directors to parking industry workers. Their top priority is serving the needs of their members, and they firmly believe that a united union is a strong union.
Their website is www.TeamstersLocal727.org and their handle on X is @Teamsters727.

Buyer’s Remorse: Are Young Voters Leaving MAGA?

In this episode, Leslie speaks with Carlos Calzadilla-Palacio, founder of the Disrupt political PAC, about a potential shift in the youth vote and what it could mean for upcoming elections.

Carlos argues that many young voters who supported Donald Trump in 2024 are beginning to rethink that decision, pointing to broken promises on issues like student debt, the economy, and foreign policy.
He explains how those policy changes are affecting young Americans in real, everyday ways—and why frustration may be turning into political movement.

But as Carlos emphasizes, changing opinions isn’t enough. The real challenge is turning that energy into action at the ballot box. He outlines how Disrupt is organizing on college campuses across the country, working to register and mobilize young voters during a key midterm cycle that will take place while many students are on campus.

The conversation highlights both the risks and the opportunity ahead—and why the youth vote could play a decisive role in shaping what comes next.

Disrupt is a youth-led political movement dedicated to freedom, affordability, and ending corporate control.
Their website is www.DisruptPAC.org. Carlos' handle on X is @Carlos_Calz07.

Political Violence in the Age of Trump; Americans Want Iran War Ended as it Crushes the Economy

The guest host for today's show is Brad Bannon. Brad runs Bannon Communications Research, a polling, message development and media firm which helps labor unions, progressive issue groups and Democratic candidates win public affairs and political campaigns. His show, 'Deadline D.C. with Brad Bannon,' airs every Monday from 3-4pm ET. 

Brad is first joined by Sarah Jones, Editor-in-Chief for PoliticusUSA.  
First, in the wake of the assassination attempt on the President this past weekend, Brad and Sarah discuss political violence in the age of Trump.
Next, they analyze new polling showing that 70% of Americans want the Iran war to end ASAP.
Lastly, they talk about the prospects for the Democratic party in the congressional midterms, and the curious case of John Fetterman.

Then, Brad is joined by world renowned economist, Dr. Robert Shapiro, Chairman of Sonecon.
The pair breaks down the status of the economy, including the impact of the Iran war and AI.

Brad is on the National Journal's panel of political insiders, is an American political analyst for The Times of India TV, and is a national political analyst for WGN TV and Radio in Chicago and KNX Radio in Los Angeles. Brad also writes a political column every Sunday for 'The Hill.'
You can read his columns at www.MuckRack.com/Brad-Bannon.
His handle on BlueSky is @bradbannon.bsky.social.

Worker Safety at Risk: What’s Changed and What’s at Stake

In this episode, Leslie speaks with Tom Duffy of the United Steelworkers about the urgent state of workplace safety in America ahead of Workers Memorial Day.

They begin by reflecting on the meaning of the day, which honors workers who have been killed, injured, or made sick on the job—and why those risks remain a serious concern today. Tom shares insight from decades of experience investigating workplace incidents and advocating for stronger protections.

The conversation then turns to recent policy changes and regulatory rollbacks that have weakened key safety standards, including protections against dangerous exposures and extreme working conditions. Tom explains what these changes mean in real terms for workers and why they could lead to more preventable injuries and illnesses.

They also discuss the growing strain on the agencies responsible for enforcing workplace safety, with fewer inspectors and reduced resources making it harder to hold companies accountable.

Finally, the episode focuses on what workers and unions can do to protect themselves, from pushing for stronger safeguards on the job to advocating for policies that prioritize worker health and safety.

It’s a sobering but important conversation about the risks workers face—and the ongoing fight to ensure every worker makes it home safely.

Follow the USW on Facebook, Instagram and X, using the handle @steelworkers, and visit their website at USW.org. Also, check them out on Blue Sky where their handle is @steelworkers.bsky.social.

Trump Attacks the Environment While Pope Leo Defies Him with Calls for Peace with Iran

The guest host for today's show is Brad Bannon. Brad runs Bannon Communications Research, a polling, message development and media firm which helps labor unions, progressive issue groups and Democratic candidates win public affairs and political campaigns. His show, 'Deadline D.C. with Brad Bannon,' airs every Monday from 3-4pm ET. 

Brad is first joined by Bob Deans, Director of Strategic Engagement for the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).
The two discuss the environment ahead of this year's Earth Day, which is this coming Wednesday.
The NRDC tracks the Trump administration's actions and proposals that threaten the environment and public health.  They've documented 470 and counting in about a dozen different categories.  
They're attacking the 'Clean Water Act,' the 'Clean Air Act,' and the 'Endangered Species Act.'  Learn more at their 'White House Watch.'
However, while efforts to combat climate change have regressed on a federal level, there's still real progress happening on the state level in many different parts of the U.S.

Brad is then joined by Tara Devlin, host of the 'TARABUSTER' podcast.
The pair covers the quagmire of a war that Trump has dragged the country into versus Iran.
They also talk about Trump's verbal attacks against Pope Leo because the Pope is encouraging dialogue between the U.S. and Iran instead of more violence.
The pair also discusses how the Pope is sticking to the teaching of the gospel in his message of peace, versus those encouraging more attacks vs Iran.  Brad highlights additional clear differences between President Trump and Pope Leo with respect to the 'Sermon on the Mount' in the Gospel of Matthew.

Brad is on the National Journal's panel of political insiders, is an American political analyst for The Times of India TV, and is a national political analyst for WGN TV and Radio in Chicago and KNX Radio in Los Angeles. Brad also writes a political column every Sunday for 'The Hill.'
You can read his columns at www.MuckRack.com/Brad-Bannon.
His handle on BlueSky is @bradbannon.bsky.social.

American Manufacturing: From Cars to the Moon and Back Home Again

In this episode, Leslie speaks with Scott Paul, President of the Alliance for American Manufacturing, about three stories that highlight the role of manufacturing in America today—from global competition to space exploration to cultural identity.

They begin by discussing why Chinese-made automobiles still haven’t entered the U.S. market in a major way, and why that may be a good thing for American workers, national security, and the long-term health of the auto industry. The conversation explores the balance between lower prices for consumers and protecting domestic manufacturing jobs.

Next, they turn to the Artemis II mission and how a return to the moon is powered not just by NASA, but by thousands of American workers and manufacturers across the country. Scott explains how large-scale national projects like this support innovation, strengthen supply chains, and create jobs far beyond the space industry.

Finally, the episode closes on a lighter but meaningful note, looking at how the Pittsburgh Pirates are embracing the city’s industrial roots with steelworker-themed celebrations. It’s a reminder of the deep connection between manufacturing, community identity, and pride in American work.

Together, these conversations offer a wide-ranging look at how manufacturing continues to shape the economy, culture, and future of the United States.

If you’d like to follow more of Scott Paul’s work or learn more about the Alliance for American Manufacturing, you can visit AmericanManufacturing.org. You can also watch episodes of their podcast, The Manufacturing Report, on YouTube at youtube.com/@AmericanMfg, or listen at AmericanManufacturing.org/podcast.

They’re also active on social media—follow AAM on X at X @KeepItMadeInUSA, Scott Paul at @ScottPaulAAM, and on BlueSky at @keepitmadeinusa.bsky.social.