Lean to the Left is a progressive media platform offering political commentary, fact-based news analysis, and expert interviews that expose threats to democracy and hold leaders accountable. Lean to the Left is an independent, evolving media platform. Member benefits will grow and adapt over time. Founded in 2017 as Not Fake News and rebranded in 2021, Lean to the Left brings together the work of journalist and author Bob Gatty and a talented team of contributing writers who deliver sharp, insightful content on the issues affecting Americans today.
Our podcast—launched as NFN Radio News before becoming The Lean to the Left Podcast—featured weekly interviews with authors, activists, experts, and political insiders, with hard-hitting commentary on the challenges facing our nation. What began as a podcast grew into a community of listeners and readers who care deeply about democracy, accountability, and civic engagement. At its close, the Lean to the Left podcast had reached nearly 850 episodes with a worldwide audience.
Lean to the Left: Stay Informed. Speak Up. Join the Conversation.
Lean to the Left Is Back—with Special Reports on Stories That Matter
Lean to the Left is back! But this time, we’re doing things a little differently.
By Bob Gatty
After taking a break from regular podcast production, I’ve decided to return to the microphone with a new approach: Lean to the Left Special Reports.
Rather than producing interviews and commentary on a fixed schedule, I’ll be featuring occasional conversations with guests who have important stories to tell, perspectives worth exploring, or insights into breaking developments that demand attention.
In other words, no rigid production schedule. No obligation to fill airtime. Just conversations that I believe are worth having—and sharing with you.
Over the years, Lean to the Left has featured hundreds of interviews with journalists, political leaders, authors, activists, historians, and experts addressing some of the most consequential challenges facing our country — nearly 850 episodes in all.
Those conversations have reinforced my belief that independent journalism and thoughtful political discussion remain essential, particularly when so much of our public discourse is dominated by political spin, misinformation, and partisan noise.
That’s the spirit behind this new approach.
Our First Special Report: Courtney McClain
Courtney McClain
We’re launching the new format on Wednesday, October 28, with an interview featuring Courtney McClain, the 25-year-old Democratic candidate challenging Republican Rep. William Timmons in South Carolina’s Fourth Congressional District.
McClain, a Spartanburg native and former president of the South Carolina NAACP Youth and College Division, represents a younger generation seeking a voice in national politics.
We’ll discuss her candidacy, the issues affecting South Carolina’s Upstate communities, and her perspective on the direction of American politics.
What Comes Next?
Frankly, I don’t know exactly how often these Special Reports will appear. And that’s intentional.
When important developments occur, when an especially interesting guest becomes available, or when I believe a particular message deserves attention, I’ll produce a report.
Some will focus on breaking news. Others will feature interviews with people whose experiences, ideas, and expertise can help us better understand the issues confronting our country.
The mission of Lean to the Left hasn’t changed: to inform, challenge assumptions, encourage thoughtful discussion, and give voice to perspectives that deserve to be heard.
What has changed is the schedule.
I’m looking forward to reconnecting with longtime listeners and viewers—and hopefully welcoming some new ones along the way. And, if you have ideas for episode topics or guests who you’d like to hear, just let me know using the comment box below.
Important voices. Timely issues. When the story demands it.
That’s Lean to the Left Special Reports.
Stay tuned!
Bob Gatty is a longtime journalist, author, and host of the Lean to the Left podcast.
Subscribe to the Lean to the Left YouTube channel and follow us at LeanToTheLeft.net for upcoming Special Reports.
Lean to the Left Is Back—with Special Reports on Stories That Matter
By Bob Gatty
After taking a break from regular podcast production, I’ve decided to return to the microphone with a new approach: Lean to the Left Special Reports.
Rather than producing interviews and commentary on a fixed schedule, I’ll be featuring occasional conversations with guests who have important stories to tell, perspectives worth exploring, or insights into breaking developments that demand attention.
In other words, no rigid production schedule. No obligation to fill airtime. Just conversations that I believe are worth having—and sharing with you.
Over the years, Lean to the Left has featured hundreds of interviews with journalists, political leaders, authors, activists, historians, and experts addressing some of the most consequential challenges facing our country — nearly 850 episodes in all.
Those conversations have reinforced my belief that independent journalism and thoughtful political discussion remain essential, particularly when so much of our public discourse is dominated by political spin, misinformation, and partisan noise.
That’s the spirit behind this new approach.
Our First Special Report: Courtney McClain
We’re launching the new format on Wednesday, October 28, with an interview featuring Courtney McClain, the 25-year-old Democratic candidate challenging Republican Rep. William Timmons in South Carolina’s Fourth Congressional District.
McClain, a Spartanburg native and former president of the South Carolina NAACP Youth and College Division, represents a younger generation seeking a voice in national politics.
We’ll discuss her candidacy, the issues affecting South Carolina’s Upstate communities, and her perspective on the direction of American politics.
What Comes Next?
Frankly, I don’t know exactly how often these Special Reports will appear. And that’s intentional.
When important developments occur, when an especially interesting guest becomes available, or when I believe a particular message deserves attention, I’ll produce a report.
Some will focus on breaking news. Others will feature interviews with people whose experiences, ideas, and expertise can help us better understand the issues confronting our country.
The mission of Lean to the Left hasn’t changed: to inform, challenge assumptions, encourage thoughtful discussion, and give voice to perspectives that deserve to be heard.
What has changed is the schedule.
I’m looking forward to reconnecting with longtime listeners and viewers—and hopefully welcoming some new ones along the way. And, if you have ideas for episode topics or guests who you’d like to hear, just let me know using the comment box below.
Important voices. Timely issues. When the story demands it.
That’s Lean to the Left Special Reports.
Stay tuned!
Bob Gatty is a longtime journalist, author, and host of the Lean to the Left podcast.
Subscribe to the Lean to the Left YouTube channel and follow us at LeanToTheLeft.net for upcoming Special Reports.