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The Progress Report

The Progress Report

By: Jessica Curtis & Rob Semerano
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The Progress Report is where optimism meets action. Hosted by Jessica Curtis and Rob Semerano, this weekly podcast shines a light on the people, ideas, and innovations moving America forward. From unsung heroes to household names, each episode dives into personal stories of resilience, leadership, creativity, and grit. It’s not about politics—it’s about progress. Whether it's a high school wrestler overcoming the odds, a local business changing lives, or a national figure sharing lessons from the frontlines, The Progress Report celebrates the spirit that keeps this country going. Tune in, get inspired, and be reminded: the American story is still being written—and it’s far from over.


© 2026 Think American News
Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Dr. John Bell on Character, Community & the Umpire's Code
    Jun 24 2026

    Three words have anchored Dr. John Bell's graduation speech for decades: dream big, make a plan, work like a dog. In Part 2, the Port Jervis superintendent and Little League World Series umpire connects the dots between the diamond and real life — why kids need to get hosed by a bad call sometimes, what helicopter parents are actually taking away from their children, and how a thick skin and a friendly handshake make you a better umpire and a better leader. Plus: the Bell family legacy of community service that spans four generations and counting.

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    26 mins
  • Dr. John Bell on Family, Little League & the 20-Year Road to Williamsport
    Jun 17 2026

    He applied for 13 straight years. He got rejected every single time. And then, out of 10,000 applicants, Dr. John Bell was one of 16 umpires selected to work the Little League World Series in Williamsport. In Part 1, Port Jervis superintendent and lifelong umpire John Bell talks about what it means to chase a dream the slow way — laying groundwork, climbing ladders, and never mailing it in — and why growing up in a town like Port Jervis gave him the toughness to keep going when it would have been easier to quit.

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    23 mins
  • Tony Perkins on Prostate Cancer, Podcasting & What Still Gets Him Up at 2:30 AM
    Jun 10 2026

    The career is impressive. The person behind it is even more so. In Part 2, Tony Perkins gets personal — sharing his prostate cancer diagnosis, why he decided to go public with it, and how that decision led to countless men getting tested who otherwise wouldn't have. He also talks about the future of media, the reboot of his comedy podcast You Gotta Be Kidding Me with longtime producer Gary Stein, and the screenplay he's currently trying to sell. Plus his advice for anyone trying to break in today: forget the traditional mold and lead with your passion.

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    23 mins
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