Perspective Podcast - February 3, 2012

In this edition of Perspective...

The Fight for Florida
GOP Candidates are in states like Nevada, Colorado, Maine, and Minnesota after battling in Florida's GOP Primary on Tuesday.  Mitt Romney sailed to victory in the sunshine state, picking up fifty delegates in the winner-takes-all contest.  Newt Gingrich placed second -- Rick Santorum third and Ron Paul fourth.  Weeks of negative campaigning saw an unprecedented amount of advertising money flow into the Sunshine State, however Rick Santorum and Ron Paul were not on the airwaves. Both instead focused on this weekend's race in Nevada.  Santorum was in Las Vegas on Tuesday night and addressed his supporters after coming in third.  After finishing fourth in Florida, Ron Paul spoke to supporters in Henderson, Nevada, congratulating Romney but remaining encouraged by the support he's received.  After Romney's win in Florida, The Department of Homeland Security informed his presidential campaign that he will begin receiving secret service protection.  Many believe that Romney will be the one taking on President Obama in the fall, although there are a lot of folks who see things differently, starting with Newt Gingrich.  Here is ABC's Terry Moran.

Miami Mafia Scam
Now the story of a Philadelphia TV weatherman and his costly vacation disaster at the hands of two beautiful women.  John Bolaris set out for a couple nights of fun in Miami beach, but on his first night there, he fell prey to a well-organized operation run by the Russian mafia.  ABC's Matt Gutman has the details.

Tug of War: Custody Battle
In America, the issue of immigration sparks fierce debate.  And now, and ABC News investigation reveals the story of a five-year-old boy, taken from her mother because she crossed the border illegally.  And as ABC Chief Investigative Correspondent Brian Ross reports, there may be thousands of other cases just like it.

Chemical Kids
Tens of thousands of preschoolers in this country are on anti-psychotic medications … and that number has doubled in the last decade.  Most of the drugs in question have *not* been tested on children, and doctors have no idea what their affect may be on the developing brain.  ABC's Cynthia McFadden spoke to one family faced with a profoundly difficult choice when it came to medicating their child.

Remembering Don Cornelius and Soul Train

Bill Gates the Philanthropist
We now turn to another man that has changed millions of lives.  Bill Gates has made billions of dollars as a computer industry pioneer and entrepreneur, and now he's finding new challenges to tackle.  He spoke to ABC's Bill Weir about the work he's doing to heal the world.

Black Market Boom
There are billions of people in poverty across the world.  How do they survive?  We're now finding out it's because the economy of the streets is booming.  This black market is rapidly growing and becoming the main market.  And ABC's Christiane Amanpour says the facts of this slumdog economy will amaze you.

Queen Latifah
She released her first album "All Hail the Queen" when she was only nineteen years old.  In the more than two decades since, Dana Owens -- better known as Queen Latifa -- has won a Grammy, a Golden Globe, and has been nominated for an Academy Award.  Here's ABC's Lara Spencer.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - January 27, 2012

In this edition of Perspective...

The State of the Union
Facing a country preparing to hold a referendum on his leadership, President Barack Obama gave his fourth State of the Union address this week.  He struck themes of patriotism and American unity, calling for a renewed commitment to economic fairness, as well as growth.  ABC's Terry Moran has the details.

Gabby Giffords Steps Down
After receiving a roaring round applause upon her entrance at the State of the Union address on Tuesday, Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords received additional accolades from her colleagues in the House of Representatives when she turned in her resignation letter this week.  She was recognized by both the Majority Leader, Eric Cantor ... and the Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi.  But it was what one of Giffords' best friends ... Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Shultz said ... that touched the most people.  Here's some of what it sounded like on Wednesday, when --- a year after her near fatal shooting --- Gabby Giffords stepped down.

Seal Team 6 Strikes Again
It's the story of a Navy Seal team rescuing a young, American woman and another man from pirates in Somalia.  The mission involved jumping from an airplane in the middle of the night, lethal combat, and a helicopter evacuation.  ABC's Martha Raddatz has the story.

The Most Dangerous Man in China
We now turn from Somalia to China, to an artist and dissident that some consider a danger to the government of China.  His name is Ai Weiwei (eye way-way), and Chinese authorities fear him so much they have gone through the trouble to install surveillance cameras throughout his home.  He is now the subject of a documentary from filmmaker Alison Klayman, titled "Never Sorry."  ABC's Christiane Amanpour spoke with Klayman about the film and what she learned about one of China's most influential artists and activists.

Cyber Stalking
A danger closer to home involves the dark side of social media, evidenced by one woman's struggle to elude her cyber stalker.  After being approached with a friend request on Facebook from a former classmate, their interaction quickly took a disturbing turn that eventually dominated her life.  ABC's Andrea Canning reports.

Many Happy Returns
It's another type of holiday shopping season ... only cheaper.  Now that the holiday season is over, people have spent the last month returning unwanted gifts, including more than 550,000 items returned from online purchases alone.  But many of those items aren't ending up at the stores they were bought.  Instead, they're sent to warehouses to sell at seriously deep discounts.  ABC's Juju Chang explains.

The End of Illness
He's been called a rock star of science ... and believes that modern medicine is completely backwards.  Instead of America spending billions on the sick, Doctor David Agus says the system should keep us from getting sick in the first place.  To demonstrate his theory, he asked ABC's Bill Weir to undergo a series of cutting-edge tests, and it turns out those tests may actually have saved his life.

Oh Say Can't You Sing?
The Star Spangled Banner was written in 1814 and became the national anthem in 1931.  Singing it before major sporting events has become a tradition, but it's not an easy song to sing.  It's been mangled by some very famous people, most recently by American Idol judge Steven Tyler at last weekends AFC Championship football game.  Here's ABC's David Wright.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - January 20, 2012

In this edition of Perspective...

Cruise Ship Disaster
It's a mangled sea wreck off the coast of Italy that had just days ago been a proud ocean liner.  Here in the U-S, the tragedy of the Costa Concordia ship wreck is hitting home, with several dead and more still missing.  And now, doubts are intensifying about the captain's story of what exactly happened onboard.  Reporting from Italy, here's ABC's News Correspondent Lama Hasan.

Gingrich's Ex-Wife Speaks
The 20-12 political season is well underway, with the South Carolina primary in focus this weekend and Florida's primary on the horizon.  Most of the candidates spent the week campaigning in South Carolina to secure votes, while Rick Perry and Jon Hunstman dropped out of the race.  Texas Congressman Ron Paul took a short break from campaigning to return to his home state.  When he did travel to South Carolina, he picked up the endorsement of a state senator popular with Tea Party members, and told supporters he expects his campaign to continue to exceed expectations.  One candidate under fire this week was Newt Gingrich.  He's been in the public eye for decades and has had a complicated private life, which he's spoken about openly on the campaign trail.  But this week, one of Gingrich's two ex-wives spoke to ABC News about the candidate.  His second wife, Marianne, says she does not believe Gingrich has the morals necessary to be president.  ABC Chief Investigative Correspondent Brian Ross reports.

Romney's Cayman Accounts
In addition to speaking with Marianne Gingrich this week, ABC Chief Investigative Correspondent Brian Ross inspected several offshore investment funds linked to presidential candidate Mitt Romney.  These are just a few of the numerous funds on tiny islands that hold a staggering amount of American money.  Once again, here's ABC Chief Investigative Correspondent Brian Ross.

Evangelicals for Santorum
Just last week, a group of evangelical leaders met to decide *their* choice for president.  Despite a tepid showing in the New Hampshire primary, they chose to endorse Rick Santorum.  ABC's David Kerley has the details.

U.S. and Iran Tensions
America and Iran appear to be on a collision course over Iran's nuclear program.  Iran blames the United States and Israel for the recent murder of an Iranian nuclear scientist, while Secretary of State Clinton and Secretary of Defense Panetta vehemently deny any U-S involvement.  To discuss the escalating tension between the U-S and Iran, ABC's Christiane Amanpour speaks to former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Jamie Rubin, who is also Ms. Amanpour's husband.

Diet Rehab
It's the number one new years resolution on many people's lists: losing weight.  It's also big business in the U-S.  Americans spent 62-billion dollars last year on weight loss programs and health club memberships.  But one doctor says we may be spending our money in the wrong ways.  He believes food can be as addictive as drugs,  and we put his 28 day solution to the test during the hardest time of the year to diet: the holidays.  Here's ABC's Juju Chang.

Madonna
Throughout her career, Madonna has pushed many boundaries, but has superstardom slowed down for her at all?  Not exactly.  She's the main attraction at this years Super Bowl Half-time Show, and as ABC's Cynthia McFadden reports, she's not slowing down anytime soon.

Host:  Aaron Katersky
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - January 13, 2011

In this edition of Perspective...

Casey Anthony's Untold Story
Since her acquittal on murder charges in the death of her daughter Caylee, Casey Anthony has mostly avoided the spotlight.  But this week, new information has emerged in the form of a report by the psychiatrists who evaluated Anthony before her trial began.  ABC's Matt Gutman has the details.

Brave Buddies
Shyness is hardly uncommon.  Just about every kid experiences a paralyzing moment during show and tell or when meeting someone new.  But imagine a child so stricken with fear, she goes without speaking for an entire school year.  We met two such children … their parents, desperate for help … and one man who says he can cure them with a simple technique.  ABC's Juju Chang has more.

Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama is one of the most famous people on the planet, but her privacy, her power, her fears, have been carefully guarded.  Now, there's a new book about her challenges in the White House and one moment that may have changed everything for her.  ABC's Cecilia Vega reports from Washington.

Presidential Wives
Nobody runs for president alone.  The men and women who run need their life partners to lean on, stand by them, and vouch for them with voters.  But how does a candidates' wife affect the campaign?  Here's ABC's Terry Moran.

Battle of the Ballads
Voter excitement is important for any presidential candidate, and some try to create it using music and campaign theme songs.  But as ABC's John Berman explains, there are mixed results when injecting rock and roll into a campaign.

Okay to Shoot?
It's a case of one mother's protective instincts ... 18-year-old Sarah McKinley was home alone on New Year's Eve with her baby.  Her husband had passed away from cancer just the week before.  That night two men tried to break into her home.  It was then that she made two quick decisions.  She picked up a shotgun, called 9-1-1, and asked for permission to fire.  ABC's Ryan Owens has the details.

Celebrity Scents
We build powerful associations with scents ... everything from a mother's perfume to the mountain air.  And now, some celebrities are betting that you might want to smell like them ... and pay handsomely for that pleasure.  ABC's Andrea Canning explains.

Angelina Jolie
She has the Hollywood lineage, the handsome husband, and the kind of kids that magazines pay eight figures just to photograph.  But Angelina Jolie is also an unflinching humanitarian and a member of the Council of Foreign Relations.  ABC's Christiane Amanpour spoke to Jolie about her most recent project.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - January 6, 2012

In this edition of Perspective...

Who Is Rick Santorum?
This week we saw an historically close photo finish at the Republican Iowa caucuses.  Former Governor Mitt Romney finished at the top ... winning by only 8 votes even though he spent 50 times more money than second place finisher Rick Santorum.  Meanwhile a poor showing from Congresswoman Michele Bachmann caused her to drop out of the race.  Many Americans still have questions about the candidates, and want to know more about the surging Rick Santorum.  Can he go the distance?  ABC Chief White House Correspondent Jack Tapper has the details.

A New Challenger for Mitt Romney
So how is the Mitt Romney campaign responding to Rick Santorum's success in Iowa?  Most recently, he's turned to a one-time political foe-turned-friend ... John McCain.  Here's ABC's David Muir.

The Rest of the Field
Although they led in Iowa, Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum are only part of the field.  This Tuesday in New Hampshire, all the GOP contenders will be vying for votes.  To find out more about the rest of the field, ABC's Steven Portnoy speaks to ABC Senior Political Editor Rick Klein.

Christina Tailer Green
Nearly one year ago in Tucson, Arizona a 22-year-old man shot Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and 18 others ... killing 6.  The youngest victim was 9-year-old  Christina Tailor Green.  Her life was strangely bookended by American tragedy.  She had been born on 9-11.  Her parents spoke to ABC's Cynthia McFadden about their inspiring daughter.11.

Salt Danger?
As the only rock we eat, salt has been a treasured commodity going back to the earliest civilizations.  While we don't trade it anymore, most of us enjoy it enough that it could be dangerous to our health.  And now the FDA is looking for new ways to lessen our salt consumption.  As ABC's Linsey Davis reports, it's a move that could change eating as we know it.

Meth Lab Investigation
In the heartland of America, cops are working around the clock to keep an every day cold medicine out of the hands of drug dealers.  The key ingredient to making meth can be found in any drugstore, and dealers are paying big bucks to get their hands on a closely regulated supply of it.  ABC's Chris Bury traveled with one Kentucky police unit trying to catch those dealers.

Death Off the Shelf
For American troops serving in Afghanistan, one killer has surpassed all others … the improvised explosive device, or IED.  They have killed or injured more than 8-thousand U-S service members in that country, and they are so prevalent in part because they are incredibly easy to make.  ABC's Nick Schifrin has the details about a few deadly ingredients that are disturbingly easy to buy.

Being Elmo
He has helped millions of toddlers learn the alphabet, make friends, and sing.  But no toddler and few parents could likely tell you his name.  That's because his talents find expression through an alter ego called Elmo.  Here's ABC's Juju Chang.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - December 30, 2011

In this edition of Perspective...

Turmoil in Iraq
Many military families across the country received a special holiday gift this year ... their loved ones finally home from the war in Iraq.  But Iraq is still facing widespread violence, threatening to tear the country apart.  Just this week ... a suicide bombing in Baghdad ... while the Iraqi government is being viewed as increasingly fragile.  ABC Senior Foreign Affairs Correspondent Martha Raddatz was there when the last troops left Iraq.

2012 Doomsday Prophecy
We now turn to a story reminiscent of disaster films ... the end of the world as we know it.  While there have been plenty of wild predictions throughout the years, some still say that doomsday will come in 20-12.  ABC's David Wright has the details.

Unclaimed Baggage for Sale
If you were among the millions of Americans flying this holiday season, you likely encountered numerous airline fees.  However, that thirty dollar checked bag fee is only *one* way airlines are making money on your luggage.  ABC's Ryan Owens explains.

2011: A Global Perspective
It was a turbulent and tumultuous year throughout the world.  From the instability of the European financial markets to the worldwide protests in the Middle East, Wall Street, and Moscow, much of the tension from 20-11 will reverberate in the New Year.  ABC's Christiane Amanpour takes a look back at the stories that defined 20-11.

Google Search Trends of 2011
Google's not the only one compiling a list of the year's hottest topics.  Over 90-billion messages were sent on Twitter this year, and the company has put together a list of some of the years most *extraordinary tweets.*  ABC's Cecilia Vega has the details.

The Real Erin Brockovich
Eleven years ago, Hollywood brought us the extraordinary story of one exceptional woman ... Erin Brockovich, who stood up for a community she claimed was being poisoned.  Now she's at it again ... and the community she's trying to protect might even be yours.  Here's ABC's Cynthia McFadden.

Fad Diet Danger
There are 60-billion reasons to get into the weight loss business.  That's how many dollars we spend each year in an attempt to shed pounds.  But many so-called *fad* diets have a staggering number of Americans getting ripped off, sick, or both.  And recently, the FDA pulled one wildly popular diet product from the shelves.  To find out more about some popular diets and how well they work, here's ABC's Sharyn Alfonsi.

Janet Jackson
Janet Jackson is the most famous member of a wildly successful show business family.  Now 45, Miss Jackson opens up about her life-long struggle with body image.  It began with childhood stardom ... and now that Jackson's famously-sheltered 13-year-old niece Paris is joining the family business, she shares her advice for Paris with us.  Here's ABC's Juju Chang.

Host:  Alex Stone
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Year End Perspective Podcast - December 23, 2011

In this edition of Perspective...

Top U.S. Stories of 2011
We begin with some of the top stories of 2011.  The death of one of the most infamous terrorists ... an attack on an Arizona congresswoman ... the end of an era in space travel.  ABC's Jim Hickey has the details.

Big Trials of 2011
2011 was also a year of high profile trials.  A mother accused of killing her child ... a doctor implicated in the death of a pop icon ... and a student set free after four years in prison.  ABC's Alex Stone reports on the biggest trials of 20-11.

2011 Economy Year in Review
2011 was marked by a year of turmoil on Wall Street.  An extremely volatile stock market ... a european debt crisis ... and protests both overseas ... and at home.  Here's ABC's Richard Davies.

International Stories of 2011
2011 was a busy year overseas ... with a royal wedding extravaganza ... a harrowing attack in Europe ... and a devastating natural disaster in Asia.  ABC's Tom Rivers reports from London.

The Arab Spring
2011 was also a year of revolutions throughout the Arab world.  The people of Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, and Syria rose up and revolted against their countries dictators, marking what is now referred to as the "Arab Spring."  ABC's Linda Albin has the details.

The Year in Entertainment
Music, movies, and celebrity drama ... they were all part of the headlines in 2011.  ABC's David Blaustein and Jason Nathanson  report on the years top entertainment stories.

The Year in Sports
20-11 was a rocky year in the world of sports.  Lock outs and labor talks threatened both the NFL and NBA seasons, while a child sex abuse scandal took down an iconic college football coach.  ABC's Rich Cantu has the details.

Remembering Steve Jobs
Steve Jobs was a visionary ... a genius ... some even called him a modern day Einstein.  Jobs passed away on October 5th ... at just 56 ... after an eight-year battle with cancer.  He was mourned by millions around the world and was Barbara Walters' choice as "Most Fascinating Person of the Year."  Here's ABC's Bill Weir.

Remembering Amy Winehouse
Another lost life in 2011 was Amy Winehouse.  The singer was found dead in her London home on July 23rd ... an unintended consequence of drinking too much alcohol.  Here's ABC's Jason Nathanson.

Remembering Elizabeth Taylor
She became one of the great screen actresses of Hollywood's Golden Age.  Elizabeth Taylor was recognized for her acting ability, glamorous lifestyle, and beauty.  Taylor died on March 23rd at Los Angeles' Cedars-Sinai Hospital due to congestive heart failure.  She was 79.  Here's ABC's Diana Alvear.

Remembering Andy Rooney
Andy Rooney's weekly riffs about the absurdities of everyday life made him one of television's longest-running commentators.  Rooney passed away due to complications following a minor surgery on November 4th ... just weeks after his farewell broadcast on "60 Minutes."  He was 92.  Here's ABC's Bill Diehl.

Remembering Al Davis
Al Davis was the Hall of Fame owner of the Oakland Raiders known for his rebellious spirit.  He died from congestive heart failure on October 8th ... at the age of 82.  Here's ABC's John Cloghessy.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - December 16, 2011

In this edition of Perspective...

Doctors with Heart
It's a story far from American shores ... but with deep connections to this country.  Liberia, on the west coast of Africa, came into being when freed slaves from the U-S settled there in 1822.  But that hopeful beginning dissolved into a horrific 14-year civil war ... leaving the country and its health care system in ruins.  Only 60 doctors remained ... and not a single pediatrician among them.  As ABC's Cynthia McFadden reports, that's where two young American doctors come in.

Drugs and Foster Care, Part 1
For the past year, ABC has been investigating the use of psychotropic drugs on America's foster children.  In many cases, these are children already traumatized by abuse, neglect and abandonment.  And a new report says sometimes even *infants* are being given these powerful drugs.  Of course, drugs *can* be useful ... but should they be the first option?  Here's ABC's Diane Sawyer.

Drugs and Foster Care, Part 2
We now return to our year-long ABC investigation on the use of psychotropic drugs on America's foster children ... kids being prescribed a shocking quantity of pills, often without the therapy they say they crave.  ABC's Sharyn Alfonsi caught up with the doctors prescribing those pills.

Drugs and Foster Care, Part 3
We return now to our investigation of the use of mind-altering drugs on foster children across America.  This time we visit a place offering these kids some hope.  Once again here's ABC's Diane Sawyer.

Drugs and Foster Care, Part 4
As part of our year-long ABC investigation on the use of psychotropic drugs on foster children ... we took our questions to the U-S government.  What we encountered were agencies referring us back to each other, and the Secretary at the Department of Health and Human Services declined our request for an interview.  ABC's Diane Sawyer *did* speak to Robert Nelson of the Food and Drug Administration ... which regulates drugs in this country.  She asked him who's going to fix this problem.

Drugs and Foster Care, Part 5
And there are others besides Senator Carper doing everything they can to help.  ABC's Diane Sawyer met with one such family who is also working to change the lives of these children.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast -December 9, 2011

In this edition Perspective...

Syria: A Dictator Speaks
In an exclusive interview,  ABC's Barbara Walters traveled to Syria to speak with the country's embattled dictator.  She is the first reporter allowed access to the country since a revolution began there nine months ago.  We turn now to her extraordinary interview with Syrian President Bashar Al Assad.

Syria: On the Streets
After the nine-month virtual media blackout in Syria, President Assad told ABC's Barbara Walters and her team they were free to go anywhere in the country and ask anyone whatever questions they'd like.  So ABC's Alex Marquardt, who was traveling with Walters, went to where the rebellion started to see if Assad's assertion was true.

Pat Summitt and Alzheimer's
She is a living legend who has given incredible memories to countless students and sports fans.  But now, Pat Summitt is losing her own memories as she battles the ultimate game changer ... early onset Alzheimer's.  ABC's Robin Roberts spoke to Summitt about her battle with the debilitating disease.

The Business of Collecting Pennies
In this tough economy, Americans continue to find all kinds of enterprising ways to make a buck.  However, the latest example is raising eyebrows ... it's an item collecting in jars, rattling in dryers, and hiding in coaches.  ABC's Neal Karlinsky explains.

Fighting Back Against Cancer
It turns out that the growing sense of the rich getting richer while the rest of Americans are just jogging in place is accurate.  The congressional budget office reports that over the past thirty years, the income of the wealthiest 1-percent has shot up 275-percent, and as ABC's Cynthia McFadden reports, when it comes to health care, that kind of imbalance may even determine who lives and who dies.

Paul Anka
It's holiday time, and one original teen idol is out with his first seasonal album in more than half a century.  You've heard Paul Anka's voice grace many iconic holiday anthems, and ABC News Entertainment Correspondent Bill Diehl sat down to talk to him about his most recent work.

Host:  Alex Stone
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - December 2, 2011

In this edition of Perspective...

Gary Giordano Returns Home
We begin with an ABC News exclusive interview with Gary Giordano, after his release from jail in Aruba.  He was held there for four months, suspected of murdering his traveling companion, Robyn Gardner ... a 35-year-old Maryland woman ... although he was never charged.  When we spoke to Giordano, he answered some questions ... but also raised some others.  ABC's Matt Gutman has been covering this story from the beginning and has the details from New York.

American Valor: Fighting On, Part 1
Many of us gathered around the family table for Thanksgiving last week, but on the other side of the world there are 116,000 Americans serving in Iraq and Afghanistan whose family celebrated the holiday without them.  As two wars that have lasted more than a decade wind down ... *they* fight on.  ABC's Senior White House Correspondent Jake Tapper traveled to Afghanistan to spend some time with them.

American Valor: Fighting On, Part 2
In the last decade 6,319 American servicemen and women have lost their lives in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.  Many have come home with injuries invisible to the eye and others painfully obvious.  But so many more would have died, if not for the heroic efforts of one very special unit -- the medivacs, pilots, nurses, and doctors who go into battle unarmed to rescue the fallen.  During his trip to Afghanistan, ABC Senior White House Correspondent Jake Tapper spoke to one elite unit.

Giving Back
With many Americans straddling the poverty line, a holiday dinner with all the fixings isn't always possible.  ABC's Juju Chang introduces us to one woman who made Thanksgiving dinner a reality for nearly 400 families this year.

Marriage Regret
Actress Demi Moore announced her plans to divorce Ashton Kutcher last month, on the heals of Kim Kardashian's similar announcement after only 72 days of marriage ... and the authors of a new book say, don't be shocked.  30-percent of divorced women put on their white dress and march down the aisle even though they had a sinking feeling it wasn't going to work.  The question is, why?  ABC's Andrea Canning has the details.

Tim Allen
He may have left his tool belt and his santa claus fat suit behind, but on his new TV show Tim Allen is still making America laugh.  He's also battled his share of demons ... his father's tragic death, his own addictions, and even time in prison.  ABC's Elizabeth Vargas visited Tim Allen to find out more about the man behind the voice of Buzz Lightyear.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - November 25, 2011

In this edition of Perspective...

Homeless Teens, Part 1
Four courageous kids ...  every day for them on the streets is a struggle to survive.  We followed them for two years, and now ABC's Chris Cuomo shares the story of four teenagers that will do just about anything to survive.

Homeless Teens, Part 2
We return now to the struggles of four homeless teenagers.  In Portland Oregon, we meet June ... a troubled teen with no place to call home.  Once again, here's ABC's Chris Cuomo.

Homeless Teens, Part 3
We now return to the story of four homeless teens.  George was abandoned by his family ... left to fend for himself.  But he's working hard to make it on his own.  Once again, here's ABC's Chris Cuomo.

Homeless Teens, Part 4
George ... unwanted by his family and left to fend for himself.  But things could be starting to look up for him.  Once again, ABC's Chris Cuomo.

Homeless Teens, Part 5
Now back to the story of four homeless and troubled teens ... struggling to live and survive on their own.  We've followed them for two years, and ABC's Chris Cuomo tells us what they're lives are like now.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - November 18, 2011

In this edition of Perspective...

Gabby Giffords' Recovery, Part 1
Those who know them have called Gabby Giffords and her husband Mark Kelly "America at it's best."  She was once called the most positive person in congress, and then last January, a stranger pulled out a gun and put a bullet through Gabbrielle Giffords' brain.  Now, hear her story from that moment to now ... captured on tape by Kelly.  ABC's Diane Sawyer has the story ... but first we begin with Mark Kelly's description of the spirited woman he married four years ago.

Gabby Giffords' Recovery, Part 2
We return now to the story of Congresswoman Gabbrielle Giffords, shot in the head on January 8th at a supermarket in Tucson Arizona.  But her story begins much earlier than that.  Once again, here's ABC's Diane Sawyer.

Gabby Giffords' Recovery, Part 3
We now return to congresswoman Gabbrielle Giffords harrowing ordeal ... recovering from a devastating gun shot wound to the head.  We join her seven weeks into her rehabilitation.  Once again, ABC's Diane Sawyer.

Gabby Giffords' Recovery, Part 4
We rejoin Gabbrielle Gifford and husband Mark Kelly ten months into her recovery from a gunshot wound to the left side of her brain.  Once again, here's ABC's Diane Sawyer.

Gabby Giffords' Recovery, Part 5
We return to the story of congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.  Her recovery has been long, and she has much more ahead ... but she is determined to continue her improvement.  So what's next for the congresswoman?  Once again, ABC's Diane Sawyer has the details.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - November 11, 2011

In this edition of Perspective...

Conrad Murray's Fate
The jury in the trial of Michael Jackson's doctor, Conrad Murray, reached a verdict this week:  guilty.  Murray was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in the stars death nearly two-and-a-half years ago.  After six weeks of hearing evidence, it took the jury just under nine hours to decide that Murray's actions had cost Michael Jackson his life.  ABC's Jim Avila has the details.

Murder for Hire
We now turn from manslaughter to murder.  In movies, hiring a hitman usually involves a briefcase and a photograph ... works every time.  But in real life, paying to have someone killed is complicated and dangerous.  ABC's John Donvan has the story of three botched murder attempts and one incredibly complex marriage.

Allegations Against Herman Cain
In less than one year, Americans will go to the polls to select a president, and Herman Cain is still in the running ... despite the women who have now gone public with sexual harassment allegations against him.  He addressed the allegations this week in a press conference, where he denied any wrongdoing.  He also sat down with ABC's Jonathan Karl to explain his side of the story.

Birth Control Pill Danger
We now turn to women's health and one of the most popular pills on the market today ... but our reporting suggests that using it can increase the risk of dangerous side effects that may even cause death in young, otherwise healthy patients.  We spoke to one twenty-four year old woman who is convinced that this drug is the reason she ended up blind.  Hers is among the mounting claims that have prompted an FDA investigation.  ABC Chief Law Correspondent Chris Cuomo explains.

Iran's Nuclear Capabilities
Questions about Iran's nuclear program have been swirling for years, causing fear that they are secretly preparing to build a nuclear warhead.  The IAEA ... the UN's nuclear agency ... has issued a report that comes the closest yet to accusing Iran of working on a nuclear weapons device.  ABC's Christiane Amanpour has the details.

Leonardo Dicaprio and Clint Eastwood
They're the golden boy and the cowboy ... Jack Dawson and Dirty Harry ... and now for the first time ever, Leonardo DiCaprio and Clint Eastwood are pooling their star power to make a movie.  Eastwood is in the director's chair while DiCaprio portrays one of the most complicated figures in American history.  A man with such unbelievable power, even Hollywood couldn't make it up.  ABC's Terry Moran has more.

Bebe Neuwirth
When talking about a show business 'triple threat' the name Bebe Neuwirth comes to mind for many.  Bebe is a performer who's been on television and stage
for many years, and recently she paid a visit to our studios for a chat with ABC News Entertainment correspondent Bill Diehl.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - November 4, 2011

In this edition of Perspective...

Condoleezza Rice
A poll last month found that only 44-percent of military veterans and a mere 36-percent of civilians think the war in Iraq has been worth fighting.  But many of the leaders who took us into that war continue to see things differently, including former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.  ABC's George Stephanopoulos spoke with Rice about her time as National Security Advisor and Secretary of State during the Bush administration.

Confessions of a Gold Scammer
All currency is built on human trust ... a mass agreement that pieces of paper can be swapped for goods and labor ... faith that a dollar in the bank today will be there tomorrow.  But when fear replaces faith, many turn to the historic safety of gold.  But what happens when con-men exploit that urge for security?  We spoke to one such man who *could* be called the Bernie Madoff of gold scams ... using the allure of gold to steal tens of millions of dollars from unsuspecting victims.  While awaiting his prison sentence, he spoke to ABC Chief Investigative Correspondent Brian Ross about how he chose his victims and tried to take them for all they were worth.

Kim and Kris Divorce
Kim Kardashian's brand has long since eclipsed her reality star beginnings.  For Kim, her recent blowout wedding with designer dresses and a 4 hour reality TV spectacle was just business as usual.  But this week ... a twist ... and questions about how the business might threaten the brand.  ABC's John Donvan has more.

Is Marriage Only for White People?
We now turn from divorce to marriage, and what some are calling the black girl curse.  It's a term used by a group of four friends ... single women in Atlanta.  They use the phrase to describe their marriage prospects.  The fact is, a staggering 70-percent of black women in America are unmarried ... compared to 45-percent of white women.  And according to one controversial author, the solution is for black women to stop waiting around for black men.  ABC's Linsey Davis tackles the issue..

A Miracle Baby
The storms struck with fury ... tornadoes ripped through the small town of Phil Campbell just over six months ago.  Much of the town was leveled, and 26 people were killed.  But there are also incredible stories of survival from that day.  ABC's Steve Osunsami reports on one such story.

Using Craigslist to Fight Crime
If you are one of the millions of people who shop for bargains on Craigslist, you've probably seen some *very* good deals.  But have you ever wondered why those iPads, computers, and other items on Craigslist are so cheap?  It may be that the merchandise is stolen.  And police investigators we spoke to have their eyes on it too.  Here's ABC's Neal Karlinksy.

Rosie O'Donnell Returns
She's won a bushel of Emmy's ... she's bold and irreverent ... and for the last four years she has not been on television.  But that's changed now that Oprah Winfrey has brought Rosie O'Donnell back, with a daily, live show on her OWN Network.  And as ABC's Cynthia McFadden explains, Rosie is as funny and feisty as ever.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - October 28, 2011

In this edition of Perspective...

The Two Sides of Steve Jobs
More than anyone in modern business, Steve Jobs knew how to create a bond with his customers.  But a new biography released this week reveals some of the *not-so-nice* things about Jobs.  While those who truly knew him may dispute the contents of the book, those who read it may never think of him the same way again.  ABC's Bill Weir spoke to Jobs' biographer, Walter Isaacson, about the man being mourned by millions.

The Madoffs Suicide Attempt
New information was revealed this week in the story of Bernie Madoff ... the man behind the ponzi scheme that tricked thousands of people out of millions of dollars.  Madoff's wife had been silent since his arrest, but this week she spoke for the first time in a 60 Minutes interview.  ABC Chief Investigative Correspondent Brian Ross has the story.

Stephanie Madoff Mack, Part 1
Bernie Madoff is the face of financial wrongdoing on an epic scale.  His family was destroyed by his lies ... and one son would never recover.  In her new book, that son's wife, Stephanie, asks the questions we all have wondered.  Why would a father lay waste to his entire family?  And what could make a son feel he had no choice but to pay for the sins of his father?  Here's ABC's Chris Cuomo.

Stephanie Madoff Mack, Part 2
We now return to the story of the Madoff family ... torn apart by the man who stole his clients' money.  His daughter Stephanie even says he stole his son Mark's life.  Once again, here's ABC's Chris Cuomo.

Stephanie Madoff Mack, Part 3
We return now to the story of Stephanie Madoff ... daughter-in-law of infamous ponzi-schemer Bernie Madoff.  Stephanie chronicles the scandal and its devastating effect on her family in the new book, "The End of Normal."  ABC's Chris Cuomo has more from Stephanie as she remembers the moments after Bernie's arrest.

Stephanie Madoff Mack, Part 4
We now turn to the final chapter of Stephanie's story ... in the wake of father-in-law Bernie Madoffs scandal and arrest.  Once again, Here's ABC's Chris Cuomo.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - October 21, 2011

In this edition of Perspective...

Gadhafi Killed
We begin with the death of another loathed middle-eastern tyrant ... a man who sponsored international terror for decades.  This week, rebel forces in Libya finally killed Moammar Gadhafi.  In the wake of his death, his body was dragged through the streets so the Libyan people could see him dead ... in order to actually believe he was gone for good.  ABC's Christiane Amanpour -- the last western journalist to interview Gadhafi -- has the details.

President Obama's Bus Tour
At a time when a lot of Americans are having difficulty making ends meet, people are desperately looking for leadership on the economy.  Meanwhile, President Barack Obama took to the road this week, on a bus tour to tout his jobs plan.  ABC Senior White House Correspondent Jake Tapper joined the president on his trip and spoke to him about getting the country back on track.

G.O.P. Presidential Debate
We now turn to the GOP Presidential race.  The fifth republican debate since labor day took place in Las Vegas this week, and the candidates focused on the economy ... and each other.  The attacks turned personal at times ... including more than one yelling match.  ABC Senior Political Correspondent Jonathan Karl has the story.

Animals On The Run
Big cats were on the loose this week in small town America.  An animal preserve owner set dozens of deadly animals free just before taking his own life.  What followed was a tense, dangerous, and very surreal suburban safari ... with police officers using 911 calls to track down the animals.  Here's ABC's David Kerley.

Indy Care Race
We turn now to a tragedy this week in Las Vegas ... where an indy car driver, speeding at hundreds of miles an hour, lost his life on the racetrack.  Here's ABC's Terry Moran.

James Cameron
James Cameron used groundbreaking technology, giant budgets, and sheer force of will to make Titanic and Avatar two of the most successful movies of all time.  Updates of both films are in the works, but sequels aren't enough for this man.  While imagining and creating other planets, he wants to save this one.  ABC's Bill Weir explains.

Relatively Speaking
It's a triple play on Broadway, and we're not talking baseball.  It's a trio of one-act plays titled "Relatively Speaking" ... written by Ethan Coen, Elaine May, and Woody Allen.  ABC News Entertainment Correspondent Bill Diehl caught up with some of the stars ... including Marlo Thomas.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - October 14, 2011

In this edition of Perspective ...

8th Grade Classroom Murder, Part 1
It's a tale of two boys.  One is a star athlete .. the other sometimes wore heels and makeup to class.  It's an extreme story about what schoolyard bullying can lead to ... in this case, an execution-style murder.  Here's ABC's Juju Chang...

8th Grade Classroom Murder, Part 2
We return now to the tale of a classroom murder in Oxnard California.  Here's ABC's Juju Chang...

8th Grade Classroom Murder, Part 3
We return to the 2008 execution-style murder in an 8th grade California classroom, where prosecutors in the case believe that the murder of teenager Larry King was a hate crime.  They argue that defendant Brandon McInerney associated with an avowed white separatist named Matt Reaume.  The prosecution wanted Reaume to testify, but said they were unable to find him.  However he did speak to us, after a private investigator hired by Brandon's defense team tracked him down.  Once again, here's ABC' Juju Chang...

8th Grade Classroom Murder, Part 4
We return now to the horrific murder in an 8th grade California classroom, where student Larry King was shot twice, at point-blank, buy classmate Brandon McInerney.  Now, we hear from the jurors who decided Brandon's fate.  Once again, here's ABC's Juju Chang...

Hulk Hogan
Hulk Hogan used to be a professional wrestler.  But since then he's ran into some trouble ... and now he's starting over with a new wife and a new show.  The former wrestler says he's humbled by what he's been through, but if he had the chance, he'd do it all over again.  Here's ABC's Andrea Canning...

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - October 7, 2011

In this edition of Perspective ...

Steve Jobs
He was our Edison ... our Disney.  Steve Jobs was one of the most successful businessmen of our generation, but deep down, he was an artist who worked in metal and glass ... plastic and pixels ... and the ideas that live inside his machines completely changed our definition of form and function.  After surviving pancreatic cancer and a 2009 liver transplant, the 56-year-old founding-father of Apple Computer passed away this week.  He is mourned by his wife, four children, and millions around the world.  Here's ABC's Bill Weir...

Bob Iger Remembers Steve Jobs
The year after he was fired from Apple -- back in the mid 80s -- Steve Jobs bought a small graphics computing company from George Lucas called Pixar.  A decade and several mega-hits later, Pixar was bought by Disney, bringing Jobs closer than ever to the CEO of ABC's parent company, Bob Iger.  In the wake of Jobs' death, we spoke to Iger and asked him what it was like to watch Steve Jobs create...

The Verdict In The Amanda Knox Trial
After four years, the odyssey for Amanda Knox and her family is finally over.  The American student from Seattle convicted of brutally killing her British roommate was freed from prison this week after a reversal in an Italian court.  She has now returned to Seattle with her family ... who has stood by her from day one and always believed in her innocence.  Here's ABC's Elizabeth Vargas...

Amanda Knox Returns Home
We now turn to the Seattle airport, where Amanda Knox returned home just one day after her release from prison in Italy.  After a nine hour flight, she cleared customs and stepped up to a microphone to address her supporters.  ABC's Neal Karlinsky was there...

10 Years Of War In Afghanistan
Ten years ago, President Bush sent America to war in Afghanistan.  There has been progress, but we still don't know whether it's sustainable ... and it's come at a tremendous cost.  Here's ABC's Christiane Amanpour...

America's Cheapest Family
While most regular people can't do much to control the economy, what they *can* control is their household budget.  And now we talk to one family that has it's own spending down to a science.  ABC's Ryan Owens explains...

Frugal Is The New Chic
Some experts say there is a one in three chance of a double-dip recession, but there is also evidence that the American spirit of resilience is kicking in.  Families are tightening the proverbial belt, and as one businessman put it ... frugal is the new chic.  ABC's Jim Avila has more...

Goldie Hawn
According to Unicef, American kids are among the least happy kids in the world.  There are plenty of reasons and few solutions.  But one Academy Award-winning actress says that a couple of minutes every day can make a huge difference.  Goldie Hawn, known for her sunny personality, is trying to restore happiness, one school at a time.  ABC's Cynthia McFadden spoke to Hawn at her home in New York City...

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - September 30, 2011

In this edition of Perspective ...

Michael Jackson Trial
Vivid stories emerged this week in the manslaughter trial of Michael Jackson's personal physician, Conrad Murray.  Jurors in the trial listened to a recording of the star's security guard pleading with emergency personnel for help.  But what happened in that room *before* the call was made might be even more startling.  ABC's Jim Avila has the details from Los Angeles.

Justice John Paul Stevens
We now turn from a manslaughter trial to the issue of the death penalty.  Retired Justice John Paul Stevens spent decades balancing his every word as one of the longest serving Supreme Court Justices in history.  Now Justice Stevens deals with some controversial issues of the day ... from gay marriage to the death penalty ... in his new book, The Five Chiefs.  Here's ABC's George Stephanopoulos.

Libyan Surface-To-Air Missiles
For months now, Libya has been a lawless zone open to fighters who have poured into the country from surrounding areas.  It's feared that those fighters include members of Al Qaeda.  And now, thousands of missiles have gone missing in Libya ... missiles that could take out a plane.  ABC Chief Investigative Correspondent Brian Ross reports..

Food Safety
The current Listeria outbreak in cantaloupes is already being called the third deadliest wave of food-bourne illness in U-S history.  In a list that seems to grow daily, now there are two new voluntary recalls of lettuce and grape tomatoes.  ABC's Neal Karlinsky spoke with one of the country's top food safety litigators about the items he refuses to eat.

A Fast Food Makeover
Burger King, Wendy's, and other fast-food brands are battling to keep their sales up.  Young adults are making less visits to fast-food restaurants --- 53 fewer visits than they did five years ago.  ABC's David Muir set out to discover what's taking the place of those 53 meals.

Netflix
Netflix has always been considered one of the big winners when it comes to internet companies, but suddenly customers are fleeing by the hundreds of thousands.  The man at the top of Netflix has gone from a study in success to a business page pariah.  And now, the embattled CEO talks about what went wrong and how to fix it.  Here's ABC's John Donvan.

The Facebook Economy
The fight for new jobs rages on.  President Obama, Speaker of the House John Boehner, and GOP Presidential Candidates are all talking about how to create new jobs.  Meanwhile, jobs are being found in a place that's literally right at our fingertips.  It turns out that social networking sites just might be the place to score a new job.  ABC's Bill Weir explains.

Tony Bennett
What do Lady Gaga, Queen Latifah, and Carrie Underwood all have in common?  They would all like to be in a room with the silky smooth voice that brought us "The Best Is Yet To Come."  Here's ABC's Chris Cuomo.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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Perspective Podcast - September 23, 2011

In this edition of Perspective ...

The Contenders: GOP Debate
This week in Orlando, Florida the economy took center stage in the Republican Presidential Debate.  We heard some personality from the candidates -- but also from the giant, vocal crowd.  Here's ABC's Bill Weir.

Real Housewives Backlash
If money could buy you class, strong personal relationships, and inner peace ... then there probably wouldn't be the Real Housewives franchise.  Their tabloid exploits packaged in all that wealth, beauty, and social fizz make them a pleasure for millions of fans, but lately there appears to be something seriously amiss in New York, Beverly Hills, and the other cities where these famous families live.  And now the reality show is dealing with a *new* kind of tragic reality.  ABC's Andrea Canning explains.

Millionaire Murder
In a murder trial underway in Florida, the defense has began it's efforts to convince a jury that a millionaire developer is *not* responsible for the close-range shooting death of his wife.  He admits to having shot her -- he told the 9-1-1 operator as much -- but he says it was an accident.  The latest tapes to emerge of the defendant talking on the phone from a police interrogation room are just part of the evidence against him.  Here's ABC's Ashleigh Banfield.

Mansion Suicide Mystery
We turn now to another mysterious death ... a horrific scene at a private mansion in Coronado California --- right across the bay from San Diego.  A young woman was found hanging from a balcony ... nude, bound, and gagged.  Identified as the girlfriend of the mansion owner, her death was ruled a suicide.  But her family disagrees with that ruling and speaks out to ABC's Elizabeth Vargas.

Joel Osteen
Tens of thousands of people show up every week to hear him preach in his hundred million dollar Houston church.  His message that faith and positive thinking can overcome hardship is a controversial one, but it's a message that fills every one of those stadium seats.  ABC's Robin Roberts has the story.

Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz
There are plenty of people upset that politicians took so long to start talking about jobs.  Among them is a man who has played a role in growing one of America's most successful businesses -- the CEO of Starbucks.  ABC's Terry Moran has more.

Jermaine Jackson
We turn now to financial news regarding the estate of Michael Jackson.  The executors say, since the star's death, the estate has earned a whopping 310 million dollars ... enough to pay off the singer's debts.  The executors have also said that Jackson's mother, Katherine, wants to sell the family's famous Encino estate -- the very place that ABC's Chris Connelly sat down with Michael's brother, Jermaine Jackson.

Host:  Cheri Preston
Producer:  Colin Tipton

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