R, first, thank you for the kind words.  Sometimes I sit back and ponder how great this country really could be if those that could make changes really did make changes - sort of like a true pursuit of a well-rounded, culturally filled life with a grand pursuit of knowledge and a sincere love of life (by that I mean, a true appreciation of nature versus possessions).

Next, I truly hope you fully recover from your tumor.  One thing that comes back to me in this world where human contact is becoming so diluted and changed is I find it is so easy for one to get so focused on their own immediate world that we become so surprised learning of the issues other people are facing within their own lives (if that makes sense).

Lastly, I listened to the podcast and in a way, it was both encouraging and distressing.  The distressing part was how so little national attention is focused on things like this and the themes that were discussed (one of the things I think about from time to time is how this country would be so different if we had really listened to true sincere stewards of the land and environment over the development of America just as indigenous people did - if we had only seen the Earth as sacred like they have done through history).

The encouraging thing is when it comes to appointments and how some appointments are made upon merit and abilities rather than just being rewards for political supporters with no ability to do what the positions they are appointed to require. 

Best wishes, Eric