Les Leopold

In this episode, we dive deep into the intersection of technology, power, and politics. The conversation kicks off with AI and how its potential has been hijacked by corporate interests. Instead of shorter workweeks and higher wages, productivity gains are being funneled into layoffs and stock buybacks. Drawing on history from Ford’s $5 workday to the rise of unions after WWII, we explore how technology once lifted living standards, and why that balance has broken down. Both major parties, now captured by trickle down economics, have left communities behind. Case in point: Mingo County, West Virginia, where the collapse of coal jobs opened the door to economic despair and the opioid crisis. But there’s a flip side. New polling shows broad support for progressive economic populism across party lines: fair wages, stopping price gouging, taxing the wealthy, and even government as employer of last resort. The public is less focused on culture wars and far more concerned with economic fairness and security. The episode closes with a vision: building an independent, worker centered movement that transcends party politics. Instead of “trickle down,” imagine “trickle out” prosperity radiating through families, small businesses, and communities. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roycedorazio.substack.com/subscribe