Birmingham Promise: A Progressive Southern Mayor is Changing the Game for Youth|Dixie Dems Podcast

The Birmingham Promise How can a progressive young mayor from the deep South help thousands of students attend college, combat gun violence, and drive economic growth? Listen to this powerful episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast as hosts Arthur Hill, Robert Thompson, and Bob Gatty sit down with Mayor Randall Woodfin, the youngest mayor in Birmingham, Alabama’s history. Mayor Woodfin discusses his transformative Birmingham Promise initiative, which provides college scholarships and job training for high school graduates, with strong support from the business community. We also explore critical issues like: 🔹 Gun violence and youth impact 🔹 Economic development and job creation 🔹 Trump-era policies and their local effects 🔹 Bipartisan efforts for real change 🔹 Mayor Woodfin's personal journey and leadership values 💬 Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about bold leadership, education reform, and the future of urban America. 📘 Also, check out Bob Gatty’s new book: Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness – Get it on Amazon. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to the Dixie Dems Podcast 00:35 Meet Mayor Randall Woodfin 02:09 Concerns About Trump's Policies 07:28 Creating Jobs in Birmingham 10:13 Empowering Young People 14:05 Mayor Woodfin's Journey 20:40 Birmingham Promise Initiative 25:24 Impact of Crime on Youth 26:35 Gun Violence in Birmingham 27:44 Gun Safety and Legislation 29:07 Bipartisan Efforts to Combat Gun Violence 30:40 Political Endorsements and Policy Views 32:56 Fatherhood and Personal Life 33:54 Challenges as Mayor 36:51 Impact of National Policies on Birmingham 38:48 Closing Remarks and Book Promotion 40:38 South Carolina's Missing Funds About Bob Gatty Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast. Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank. If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!