New mRNA Flu Vaccine: Could It Change the Future of Medicine?

Could a new generation of mRNA vaccines dramatically improve protection against seasonal influenza and change the future of infectious disease prevention?

In this episode, Hal Eisner sits down with physician Dr. Steve Goldberg to discuss the science behind the next generation of mRNA flu vaccines. They explore how this technology differs from traditional influenza vaccines, what clinical trials are revealing, and why researchers believe mRNA may become one of the biggest advancements in vaccine development in decades.

The conversation also examines recent Cyclospora outbreaks making headlines, vaccine safety, misinformation surrounding mRNA technology, food safety, and practical ways to reduce your risk of infectious diseases at home and while traveling.

KEY TOPICS

• Why seasonal flu vaccines don't always match circulating strains

• How mRNA technology works differently than traditional flu vaccines

• What current clinical trials reveal about next-generation influenza vaccines

• Vaccine safety and addressing common misconceptions

• The FDA approval process and what comes next

• How mRNA technology could transform future infectious disease prevention

• Recent Cyclospora outbreaks and protecting yourself from foodborne illness

• Safe food handling and washing fresh fruits and vegetables

• The importance of evidence-based medicine and peer-reviewed science

• Practical health recommendations for everyday life and travel

Support the Podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to Previous Episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

Resources

HealthTrackRx

https://healthtrackrx.com

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Influenza

https://www.cdc.gov/flu

FoodSafety.gov

https://www.foodsafety.gov

World Health Organization

https://www.who.int

Connect with Us

Hal Eisner

Instagram: https://instagram.com/haleisner

Facebook: https://facebook.com/haleisner

X: https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

Instagram: https://instagram.com/elsamramon

X: https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

Instagram: https://instagram.com/serendipitychick

LA City Library at 100: Innovation, Community and a Century of Learning

For 100 years, the Los Angeles Public Library has served as a cornerstone of education, culture, and community engagement. But today’s library is much more than books on shelves.

In this episode, Hal Eisner, Elsa Ramon, and Hunter Lowry explore the past, present, and future of the Los Angeles Public Library with library leaders Christina Rice and Madeline Peña Feliz. From podcast studios and 3D printers to museum passes and technology lending programs, the conversation highlights how libraries continue to evolve to meet the needs of modern communities.

The discussion also looks back at the devastating 1986 Central Library fire, the community effort that helped rebuild one of Los Angeles’ most treasured institutions, and how libraries are preserving history while embracing emerging technologies.

KEY TOPICS

• Celebrating the Los Angeles Public Library’s 100th anniversary

• How libraries have evolved beyond traditional books and reading rooms

• The Octavia Lab and the growing role of technology in public libraries

• Library programs supporting immigrants, students, and lifelong learners

• Free access to museum passes, hotspots, STEM kits, and technology through a library card

• The impact of the 1986 Central Library fire and the community’s recovery efforts

• Preserving history through archives, artifacts, and time capsules

• The future of libraries in a digital world

• Career opportunities in library science and public service

• Why libraries remain one of the most valuable free resources available to communities

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to Previous Episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

RESOURCES & LINKS

https://lapl.org

https://lapl.org/central100

https://lapl.org/branches/central-library

https://lapl.org/tech2go

https://libbyapp.com

CONNECT

Hal Eisner

https://instagram.com/haleisner/

https://facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

https://instagram.com/elsamramon/

https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

https://instagram.com/serendipitychick/

Audubon Beyond Birds — Conservation, Education, and Community Impact

Bird conservation is only part of the story.

In this episode, Hal Eisner, Elsa Ramon, and Hunter Lowry sit down with Kathy Barton, President of the San Fernando Valley Audubon Society, to explore how one local organization is making a lasting impact through environmental education, habitat preservation, wildfire prevention, and community engagement.

Named Nonprofit of the Year by the California Association of Nonprofits, the San Fernando Valley Audubon Society is helping protect local ecosystems while inspiring future generations to become environmental stewards.

KEY TOPICS

• Why the San Fernando Valley Audubon Society was named Nonprofit of the Year

• Habitat preservation and community-led conservation efforts

• Birds as environmental indicators and what they tell us about ecosystem health

• The importance of the Sepulveda Basin as a migratory bird habitat

• Educational programs that introduce students to nature through hands-on learning

• The role of birds, pollinators, and predators in maintaining ecological balance

• Using technology like the Merlin Bird ID app to connect people with nature

• Innovative wildfire prevention efforts using goat grazing

• The post-pandemic rise in birdwatching and outdoor engagement

• Protecting bird populations through responsible pet ownership and habitat-friendly practices

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to previous episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

RESOURCES & LINKS

https://sfvaudubon.org

https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/machine-learning/merlin-bird-id-app/

https://www.cattios.com

https://instagram.com/audubonsociety

CONNECT

Hal Eisner

https://instagram.com/haleisner/

https://facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

https://instagram.com/elsamramon/

https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

https://instagram.com/serendipitychick/

El Niño Explained: Weather, Climate and the Impacts Ahead

What exactly is El Niño, and why can warming water in the Pacific Ocean influence weather patterns around the world?

In this episode, Hal Eisner is joined by former FOX 11 meteorologist Rick Dickert for a clear and accessible look at the science behind El Niño and La Niña. Rick explains how these natural climate patterns form, why they matter, and what a strengthening El Niño could mean for rainfall, storms, wildfires, and hurricane activity.

The conversation explores the global impacts of El Niño, how weather agencies forecast changing conditions in the Pacific, and the relationship between natural climate variability and long-term climate change. Rick also discusses why even small changes in ocean temperatures can have significant consequences and how accurate forecasting helps communities prepare for seasonal weather impacts.

KEY TOPICS

• What is El Niño and how does it form?

• Understanding the differences between El Niño and La Niña

• How warming Pacific Ocean temperatures influence weather around the globe

• Why El Niño can bring drought to some regions and increased rainfall to others

• The potential impacts of a strengthening El Niño on storms, flooding, and wildfires

• How El Niño affects hurricane activity in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans

• The relationship between natural climate variability and climate change

• Why small temperature changes can have major effects on weather patterns

• How meteorologists use forecast models to prepare communities for future conditions

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to Previous Episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

RESOURCES & LINKS

https://climate.gov

https://cpc.ncep.noaa.gov

https://weather.gov

CONNECT

Hal Eisner

https://instagram.com/haleisner/

https://facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

https://instagram.com/elsamramon/

https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

https://instagram.com/serendipitychick/

The Science of Kindness — Why It Matters More Than Ever

Kindness, human connection, and the science behind positive behavior are at the center of this conversation with experts from Kindness.org.

In this episode, Hunter Lowry leads a discussion exploring how kindness impacts happiness, mental health, relationships, and communities—and why intentional acts of kindness can create ripple effects far beyond the original interaction.

From scientific research and social media behavior to practical ways of building a more compassionate society, this episode examines why kindness matters now more than ever.

KEY TOPICS

• The difference between kindness and politeness

• Scientific research connecting kindness and happiness

• How kindness positively impacts communities and observers

• Measuring kindness through research and behavioral studies

• Social media’s influence on kindness and cruelty

• Practical ways to intentionally practice kindness

• Why kindness is essential to stronger communities and relationships

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to previous episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

RESOURCES & LINKS

https://kindness.org

https://kindness.org/kq

CONNECT

Hal Eisner

https://instagram.com/haleisner/

https://facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

https://instagram.com/elsamramon/

https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

https://instagram.com/serendipitychick/

ICE Raids and Your Rights — What You Need to Know

Constitutional rights, public recording laws, and legal protections during ICE raids are at the center of this conversation with legal expert Ugo Lord.

In this episode, Hal Eisner, Elsa Ramon, and Hunter Lowry discuss what individuals should understand about warrants, public interactions with law enforcement, recording rights, and legal boundaries during enforcement actions.

From practical safety considerations to constitutional protections, this episode explores how individuals can better understand their rights in high-stress legal situations.

KEY TOPICS

• Constitutional rights during ICE raids and law enforcement encounters

• Recording law enforcement activity and First Amendment protections

• Understanding warrants and home entry procedures

• Public interactions, detentions, and disengagement strategies

• Identifying law enforcement and understanding legal boundaries

• Legal considerations involving youth safety and parental responsibility

• Practical steps during searches and enforcement situations

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to previous episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

RESOURCES & LINKS

https://instagram.com/ugolord

https://ugolord.com

https://amazon.com/s?k=An+Accidental+Career+Hal+Eisner

CONNECT

Hal Eisner

https://instagram.com/haleisner/

https://facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

https://instagram.com/elsamramon/

https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

https://instagram.com/serendipitychick/

Special Olympics — The Power of Inclusion Through Sports

Inclusion, community, and the life-changing impact of sports are at the center of this conversation about the Special Olympics.

In this episode, Hal Eisner, Elsa Ramon, and Hunter Lowry discuss how Special Olympics programs create opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities through sports, support systems, and community engagement.

From healthcare partnerships and sensory-friendly environments to volunteerism and major upcoming competitions, this episode explores how inclusion through sports can strengthen both individuals and communities.

KEY TOPICS

• The difference between the Special Olympics and Paralympics

• How Special Olympics programs support inclusion and belonging

• Brandon’s experience as a multi-sport athlete

• The importance of mental health, confidence, and social connection

• Volunteer support, coaching, and healthcare partnerships

• Sensory-friendly spaces and accessibility at events

• The impact of social media and digital platforms on inclusion efforts

• Upcoming Special Olympics events and competitions

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to previous episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

RESOURCES & LINKS

https://sosc.org

https://2026speciallympicsusagames.org

CONNECT

Hal Eisner

https://instagram.com/haleisner/

https://facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

https://instagram.com/elsamramon/

https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

https://instagram.com/serendipitychick/

Understanding Autism — Moving from Awareness to Belonging

Watch this episode on YouTube

https://youtu.be/KygUeNMqn9E

Autism spectrum disorder, inclusion, and community understanding are at the center of this conversation with Paula Pompa Craven from Easterseals Southern California.

In this episode, Hal Eisner, Elsa Ramon, and Hunter Lowry discuss how autism is understood today, the importance of early diagnosis and support, and why listening to lived experiences is essential in creating more inclusive communities.

From changing diagnostic criteria to common misconceptions and the importance of belonging, this episode explores the challenges and progress surrounding autism awareness and advocacy.

KEY TOPICS

• Rising autism diagnosis rates and increased awareness

• Understanding autism spectrum disorder and communication differences

• Misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding autism

• The importance of early diagnosis and intervention

• Challenges faced by girls and underserved communities

• Community support, inclusion, and belonging

• Debunking myths surrounding autism and vaccines

• Resources available for families and individuals

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to previous episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

RESOURCES & LINKS

https://eastersealsautism.com/

https://eastersealsautism.com/watch

https://socal.easterseals.com/

https://easterseals.com

CONNECT

Hal Eisner

https://instagram.com/haleisner/

https://facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

https://instagram.com/elsamramon/

https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

https://instagram.com/serendipitychick/

Fighting Fire with Sound — A New Approach to Fire Safety

Watch this episode on YouTube

https://youtu.be/sWNoPjze5yI

Fire safety, wildfire protection, and new technology are at the center of this conversation with Sonic Fire Tech.

In this episode, Hal Eisner, Elsa Ramon, and Hunter Lowry explore how acoustic fire suppression works, using sound waves to disrupt flames without water or traditional extinguishing systems.

From the science of infrasound to real-world deployment in homes and commercial settings, this episode looks at how this technology could change fire safety moving forward.

KEY TOPICS

• How acoustic waves can disrupt and suppress flames

• The science behind vibrating oxygen molecules

• Comparing sound-based suppression to traditional systems

• Safety considerations and real-world applications

• Challenges adopting new fire technologies

• Future applications including wildfire protection and battery fires

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to previous episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

RESOURCES & LINKS

https://sonicfiretech.com

CONNECT

Hal Eisner

https://www.instagram.com/haleisner/

https://www.facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

https://www.instagram.com/elsamramon/

https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

https://www.instagram.com/serendipitychick/

Ocean Warning Signs — What Marine Mammals Are Telling Us

Watch this episode on YouTube

https://youtu.be/hDEA-8rUAo0

Marine mammal strandings, toxic algae blooms, and ocean health are at the center of this conversation with experts from the Marine Mammal Care Center.

In this episode, Hal Eisner, Elsa Ramon, and Hunter Lowry discuss how environmental changes along the California coast are affecting marine life, and why marine mammals can serve as early warning signs for larger ecosystem problems.

From harmful algal blooms to warming waters and emerging diseases, this episode looks at what these changes mean for marine life, conservation, and public awareness.

KEY TOPICS

• The rise in marine mammal strandings linked to toxic algae blooms

• How climate change is intensifying ocean conditions

• Marine mammals as early indicators of ecosystem health

• Emerging disease threats including avian influenza

• The importance of public awareness and responsible observation

• Ways individuals can support marine conservation efforts

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to previous episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

RESOURCES & LINKS

https://marinemammalcare.org

https://marinemammalcare.org/volunteer

https://marinemammalcare.org/donate

https://www.instagram.com/marinemammalcare/

https://www.nature.com/articles/nclimate3419

CONNECT WITH THE GUEST

Marine Mammal Care Center

https://marinemammalcare.org

https://www.instagram.com/marinemammalcare/

CONNECT

Hal Eisner

https://www.instagram.com/haleisner/

https://www.facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

https://www.instagram.com/elsamramon/

https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

https://www.instagram.com/serendipitychick/

Understanding Your Pet — Behavior, Health, and the Human-Animal Bond

Watch this episode on YouTube

https://youtu.be/FRi4enRzcCk

Pet behavior, communication, and care are at the center of this conversation with Kim Todd.

In this episode, Hal Eisner and Hunter Lowry explore how pets express their needs, emotions, and health through behavior and subtle cues, and how owners can better understand and support them.

Key Topics

- Pet behavior and communication

- Recognizing signs of stress, illness, and emotional changes

- Strengthening the human-animal bond

- Alternative approaches to pet care

- End-of-life considerations for pets

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to previous episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

Resources & Links

https://starsoulsblossom.com

https://www.tellingtontouch.com

https://petworks.com

Connect with Kim Todd

https://starsoulsblossom.com

https://www.instagram.com/starsoulsblossom

https://www.facebook.com/starsoulsblossom

Connect

Hal Eisner

https://www.instagram.com/haleisner/

https://www.facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Hunter Lowry

https://www.instagram.com/serendipitychick/

Travel Like a Pro — What You Need to Know Before You Go

Watch this episode on YouTube

https://youtu.be/AEIwmT4tq48

Travel safety, airline policies, and smarter planning are essential for navigating modern travel.

In this episode, the hosts are joined by Peter Greenberg to break down how to stay informed, avoid disruptions, and travel more confidently.

Key Topics

- Travel safety and risk awareness

- Airline policies and passenger rights

- Handling delays and disruptions

- Smarter travel strategies

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to previous episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

Resources & Links

https://travel.state.gov

https://www.tsa.gov

https://www.faa.gov

https://petergreenberg.com

Connect

Hal Eisner

https://www.instagram.com/haleisner/

https://www.facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

https://www.instagram.com/elsamramon/

https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

https://www.instagram.com/serendipitychick/

Big Bear Eagles — Why Millions Are Watching Jackie & Shadow

Watch this episode on YouTube

https://youtu.be/QcOWIPv7OpM

Big Bear bald eagles, wildlife conservation, and the viral Eagle Cam featuring Jackie and Shadow have captured a global audience.

In this episode, the hosts explore the impact of the Eagle Cam and the efforts to protect the eagles’ habitat.

As always with live wildlife, moments can change quickly—but what remains constant is the connection people have built with these eagles and the effort to protect their future.

Key Topics

- Big Bear bald eagles Jackie and Shadow

- Wildlife conservation and habitat protection

- Eagle Cam and global audience engagement

- Community-led environmental efforts

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to previous episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

Resources & Links

https://bigbearvalley.org

https://savemooncamp.org

Connect

Hal Eisner

https://www.instagram.com/haleisner/

https://www.facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

https://www.instagram.com/elsamramon/

https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

https://www.instagram.com/serendipitychick/

AI Scams — How to Protect Yourself from Modern Fraud

Watch this episode on YouTube

https://youtu.be/EqK7_m_kMEM

Artificial intelligence is changing the way scams operate, making fraud more sophisticated and harder to detect.

In this episode, the hosts break down how AI is being used in scams, what warning signs to look for, and how to protect yourself.

Key Topics

- AI-driven scams and fraud tactics

- Deepfakes and impersonation scams

- Fraud prevention strategies

- Consumer protection tools

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to previous episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

Resources & Links

https://bbb.org/scamtracker

https://irs.gov

https://ctec.org

https://consumer.ftc.gov

Connect

Hal Eisner

https://www.instagram.com/haleisner/

https://www.facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

https://www.instagram.com/elsamramon/

https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

https://www.instagram.com/serendipitychick/

Summer Willis — From Assault to Advocacy

Watch this episode on YouTube

https://youtu.be/uQp4RO1zPMQ

Listener Note: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault and may be sensitive for some listeners.

Sexual assault, legal reform, and survivor advocacy are at the center of this conversation with Summer Willis.

In this episode, the hosts explore her personal experience and the broader efforts to change consent laws and support survivors through education and action.

Key Topics

- Sexual assault awareness and advocacy

- Consent law reform

- The Summer Willis Act

- Community support for survivors

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to previous episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

Resources & Links

https://www.summerwillisfoundation.org/

https://raceroster.com/events/2026/113378/the-denim-run

https://www.instagram.com/likesummerwillis/

Connect

Hal Eisner

https://www.instagram.com/haleisner/

https://www.facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

https://www.instagram.com/elsamramon/

https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

https://www.instagram.com/serendipitychick/

What the Hal — The Launch of a New Podcast

Watch this episode on YouTube

https://youtu.be/biz6Y4K66cw

Journalism and media experience come together as Hal Eisner, Hunter Lowry, and Elsa Ramon launch a new podcast focused on real, unscripted conversations.

They discuss their careers in television news, the transition into podcasting, and what this new format means for their audience.

Key Topics

- Journalism and media backgrounds

- Transition from TV to podcasting

- Storytelling and audience connection

- Launch of a new conversational format

Support the podcast

https://buymeacoffee.com/haleisner

Original Theme Music Composed by Stuart Pearson

https://stuartpearsonmusic.com

Listen to previous episodes

https://audioboom.com/channels/4960408-what-the-hal

Connect

Hal Eisner

https://www.instagram.com/haleisner/

https://www.facebook.com/haleisner/

https://x.com/HalEisner

Elsa Ramon

https://www.instagram.com/elsamramon/

https://x.com/ElsaMRamon

Hunter Lowry

https://www.instagram.com/serendipitychick/

The New What the Hal?? Podcast 2.0 brings listeners inside thoughtful, candid discussions about the moments in life and the headlines that make us stop and ask — what just happened?

Joined by journalist Elsa Ramon and former television news producer Hunter Lowry, Hal explores stories that range from serious to uplifting, heartbreaking to inspiring. From major news events to the human moments behind them, the conversations go beyond the surface to understand the people, decisions, and emotions involved.

Some stories are difficult. Some are surprising. Some are even funny.

But every episode centers on the kinds of moments that leave us all thinking the same thing:

What the Hal?

Produced in Los Angeles, California.