In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen offers a refreshing perspective amidst the chaos of today's headlines, focusing on the positive strides being made toward a better America. We start with encouraging news on public safety, as violent crime rates are showing a significant decline across the nation, with homicides dropping by 16% in 2024 compared to the previous year. This marks one of the largest decreases since 1960, reflecting the effectiveness of community-focused policing and social programs that prioritize safety and resilience.
Next, we celebrate Connecticut's recent legislative victories in maternal health, with the signing of two crucial bills aimed at addressing disparities affecting women of color. These laws will enhance access to birth centers, improve Medicaid support for doulas, and establish a task force to review perinatal mental health care, marking a pivotal step toward equitable maternal care.
We also highlight the growing movement across states to tackle the retirement savings crisis through the implementation of automatic Individual Retirement Accounts (auto IRAs). Nevada's recent launch of its program aims to benefit approximately 500,000 workers, ensuring more Americans have access to retirement savings regardless of their employer's offerings.
In a groundbreaking effort to combat the effects of addictive social media, New York State Senator Andrew Gonardez has introduced legislation requiring warning labels on platforms with addictive design features and allowing users to opt out of algorithmic content. This progressive initiative seeks to prioritize user well-being and combat the mental health challenges associated with social media usage.
We also share a listener-suggested story about the profound benefits of nature for maternal health, particularly for Black women facing systemic challenges. Programs that connect women with green spaces are proving vital in reducing stress and improving birth outcomes, emphasizing the need for equitable access to nature.
Lastly, we delve into exciting research from Emory University revealing the potential anti-aging effects of psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms. This study opens the door to new possibilities for promoting healthier aging and longevity, highlighting the importance of rethinking legal barriers surrounding psychedelics.
Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of hope, resilience, and the belief that positive change is not only possible but actively unfolding around us!
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
You can find more about this week's stories here:
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/violent-crime-rates-decrease-covid-19
https://www.nhregister.com/connecticut/article/lamont-signs-maternal-health-care-bills-20780440.php
https://nystateofpolitics.com/state-of-politics/new-york/politics/2025/07/22/n-y--state-senator-aims-to-create--user-first--digital-landscape
https://stateline.org/2025/07/23/americans-havent-saved-for-retirement-states-are-creating-automatic-savings-plans/
https://reasonstobecheerful.world/black-women-maternal-health-nature/
https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/psychedelic-mushrooms-reduced-human-cellular-aging-by-57-increased-lifespan-in-mice-30/
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Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.
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