How Do We Fix It?
From politics to the personal, we're about bridging rigid partisan divides and listening with respect to different points of view. Our podcast is hosted by longtime journalist Richard Davies. We challenge authors, experts and provocateurs in a search for positive, practical ideas. Guests include David Blankenhorn, Mónica Guzmán, Dr. Francis Collins, and other leaders and members of Braver Angels. “How Do We Fix It?" - a repair manual for the real world. Produced by DaviesContent. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 28, 2025
Braver Angels: Beginnings and Today’s Challenge. David Blankenhorn
I don’t do this work in optimism. I do it in hope”, Braver Angels President David Blankenhorn tells our podcast. “If we’re going to have any chance to fix this and save our country, this is what needs to be done.” Soon after the tumultuous 2016 election Braver Angels sprung to life— co-founded by David, Bill Doherty and David Lapp. Two years after its founding this nationwide volunteer-led citizen movement had its first convention attended by 72 conservative and 72 liberal delegates. Last summer, more than 750 reds and blues were at the Braver Angels national convention in Kenosha , Wisconsin. In the past few years Braver Angels workshops , debates, and other events have been held in all 50 states. The work continues every day all across America. We are releasing this repeat episode of our 2024 interview with David, recorded at Braver Angels offices in New York. This June he will transition from his role as Braver Angels President. Episode 416 includes more of our conversation and David’s thoughts. This episode is the latest in our series of reports on the people, projects and ideas of Braver Angels. For the past ten years, How Do We Fix It? has featured lively and creative cross-partisan interviews with a broad range of authors, journalists and public thinkers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 21, 2025
Braver Angels. Learning & Listening Across Political Divides: Wilk Wilkinson
What do you think of people who you totally disagree with about politics? Can you listen to their point of view and have a constructive conversation? Do you dismiss the other side as evil or deplorable? In this episode we hear from Wilk Wilkinson , a Christian conservative who voted for Donald Trump. He has working class roots and grew up poor. A decade ago Wilk was enraged at liberals, but today he’s working closely with both reds and blues at Braver Angels to turn down the volume on loathing and distrust. “There’s no reason why I can’t have civil conversations with people on the blue side”, says Wilk. “We cannot get stuck in this idea that just because politically we don’t see eye-to-eye we are enemies.” Wilk’s podcast is “ Derate the Hate .” He’s had “guests from all over the spectrum and talked about gratitude, forgiveness, and personal accountability” with authors, journalists, life coaches, and psychologists. “I’ve taken away incredible things from people who I disagree with vehemently on politics and most other things”, Wilk told us. “We’ve all got our blind spots, but not one of us is not worth talking to.” Wilk works in the trucking industry in central Minnesota. He describes himself as a devoted husband, a loving father, and a steadfast Christian conservative. He came from humble beginnings and as a child lived in small towns across the upper Midwest. Wilk started working at the age of 10 and hasn’t stopped. Through his podcast and personal experiences, Wilk shares candidly about the power of personal accountability, gratitude, and civility. He firmly believes that our reactions to life's challenges define us more than the challenges themselves. In his view, civility entails recognizing the humanity in everyone, regardless of our differences, our differing opinions, and/or backgrounds. Wilk says his journey from adversity to success in his career, marriage, and parenting exemplifies the transformative power of perseverance and self-improvement. His podcast and work as a volunteer leader with Braver Angels, offer hope, guidance, practical tips and tools for positive change. Wilk was recently named to the Board of Advisors at the Prohuman Foundation . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 07, 2025
Why Should I Trust You? Vaccines and Public Health. Brinda Adhikari and Tom Johnson
In the five years since the COVID pandemic began, trust in public health institutions and vaccines has plummeted. According to a new opinion poll , just over half of the public now says they trust the Food and Drug Administration to make the right recommendations on health issues at least “a fair amount,” down from nearly two-thirds (65%) in June 2023. About 1 in 4 Republicans parents now say they’ve akipped or delayed some children’s vaccines. " Why Should I Trust You? " is a new podcast about why so many Americans have lost trust in science and public health. We hear from two of the show's co-hosts, journalists Brinda Adhikari and Tom Johnson . They speak about what they've learned from a remarkably broad range of skeptics, scientists and doctors who have different opinions about vaccines and public policy on healthcare. "How Do We Fix It?" reports on the people, projects and ideas of Braver Angels , America's volunteer-led cross-partisan movement working to bring people together across rigid lines of partisan division. Braver Angels' Truth and Trust Project was featured on episode 414 of "How Do We Fix It? ". This work aims to bridge divides among people with different views on official responses to the pandemic. Braver Angels helped Brinda and Tom as they launched their podcast. Tom Johnson is an award winning producer with experience in documentary series, digital, cable and network news. Brinda Adhikari is the former executive producer of The Problem with John Stewart. This episode also looks at the changing public comments from Robert F Kennedy Jr., who may be the most powerful voice in US public health today. As we release this episode he's set to become President Trump's Health and Human Services Secretary. Kennedy's Senate nomination hearings have been highly contentiou
Fri, January 24, 2025
Braver Faith: Building Bridges With Respect Not Agreement. Mark Beckwith
How Do We Fix It? raises questions about solutions to divisive topics of politics and public policy: Decidedly secular matters. In this episode we look at how religious groups and institutions can help bring people together across divides. Braver Faith is our focus. The Right Rev. Mark Beckwith is our guest. Braver Faith is one the newest and most vibrant groups within Braver Angels — America's largest cross-partisan, volunteer-led movement that works to push back against rigid polarization. Led by faith leaders from many different religious backgrounds and beliefs, Braver Faith is a civic organization that develops educational tools to build bridges between people who are divided over politics. Mark Beckwith speaks with us about the group's goals and principles. "So many people that I talk to within Braver Angels tell me their commitment emerges from their particular faith", he tells us. Ordained in the Episcopal Church in 1979, Mark Beckwith has served parishes in Connecticut, New Jersey and Massachusetts. Elected Bishop of Newark, New Jersey, he served in that capacity for 12 years before retiring in 2018. Bishop Beckwith is a liaison for Bishops United Against Gun Violence, and is the co-founder of Faith Leaders for Ending Gun Violence , a national ecumenical group of diverse leaders. He is the author of " Seeing the Unseen : Beyond Prejudices, Paradigms and Party Lines." Braver Faith organized an online gathering the evening before President Trump's inaugural January 20. Here's a link . Three speakers shared their thoughts about how faith can play a role in building bridges. Prayers from a range of faith traditions were offered. We include short extracts in this podcast. "How Do We Fix It?" publishes frequently. We report on the projects, people, and ideas of Braver Angels. Host: Richard Davies. Producer and sound designer: Miranda Shafer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, December 13, 2024
Braver Angels "Road Trip Across a Divided America": Joseph Sim
In the fall 2024, a young British filmmaker jumped in a small car and drove across America, asking more than 200 strangers the same two questions: "How did we lose connection with our neighbors, and how do we get it back?" Many of the answers and explanations are fascinating. "I am a firm believer that developing a curiosity or a curiosity in strangers is the cure for a polarized and isolated world," says Joseph Sim , the director and producer of the new documentary, " A Road Trip Across a Divided America ." In this podcast we also hear from experts, everyday citizens and members of Braver Angels , who gave Joseph renewed hope that America can overcome the toxic divides that currently poison so many friendships and family relationships. Part of the message of Joseph's documentary is to encourage curiosity. "There is an adventure to be had. There is knowledge to be gained if you get curious about the people around you," he told us. "You honestly can't prepare yourself for what you'll find if you do that." Want to watch Joseph's wise and entertaining video? It's easy. The documentary is available at https://www.jojofilm.co.uk/ Watch Joseph's TedX talk as he makes the case for curiosity and speaking with strangers. Our podcast— "How Do We Fix It?"— makes shows about the people, ideas and projects of Braver Angels, the nation's largest volunteer-led citizens movement that's pushing back against rigid and destructive polarization. Braver Angels helped Joseph make his film. Everyday there are Braver Angels local, regional, or national workshops, debates, and events . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, November 27, 2024
Holiday Helper: Embracing Disagreement With Love. Tania Israel and Arthur Brooks
The holiday season is here, but many people across the country may dread sitting down with their nearest and dearest— all because of politics. In this episode we share down-to-earth advice from two wise experts who have thought deeply and creatively about how to minimize conflict and maximize cooperation with parents, family, and friends. Tania Israel is a Professor of Counseling Psychology at the University of California, Santa Barbara and award-winning author of " Beyond Your Bubble : How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation". Arthur C. Brooks is Professor of the Practice of Public and NonProfit Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School. We discuss the findings of his book " Love Your Enemies : How Decent People Can Save America From the Culture of Contempt". We make podcasts about the work, ideas, and projects of Braver Angels , the volunteer-led, cross-partisan network of American citizens who are working together across divides to push back against toxic polarization. This episode is very much in the spirit of what Braver Angels are working to achieve. This show is released just weeks after the election of Donald Trump to serve a second term as President. Divisive rhetoric by both sides during the campaign added to recent bitterness and division. Polarization is "not only hurting our connections with other people, it's hurting our health and our democracy," says Tania Israel. She argues that Americans "need to strengthen our connections with other people and tolerate, even embrace differences". A longer version of the interview with Tania was first published by the podcast, " Let's Find Common Ground ". In the second half of this podcast we hear about the radical ancient teachings of Jesus, Buddah and many religious leaders— love your enemies." This is a "subversive, sort of crazy-sounding idea", Arthur Brooks tells us. But it can have a profound impact on how we live. "It's pretty easy to love your friends, but to love your enemies is something entirely different," he says. "You see them in an entirely different way. You change your own heart." Our "How Do We Fix It?" interview with Arthur Brooks was first recorded in 2018. Richar
Fri, November 15, 2024
Braver Angels Reds and Blues: Election Day 2024 and Beyond
Some wore red hats, others wore blue. Outside scores of polling places in many states across the country, pairs of Democrats and Republicans sat together in a radically simple experiment called the Braver Angels Election Day Initiative. The contrast between dire media forecasts of violence, and calamity during the election and what actually happened was stark. The day passed by calmly with minimal reports of disruption. There was a sense of quiet majesty that day. In this episode we hear about the experience of three Red/Blue pairs of Braver Angels volunteers. For all of them the experience of presenting themselves in public as liberals and conservatives who could get along was uplifting. We also get reactions and reflections about the results and what they mean for our democracy. Our guests are: Liberal Don Goldberg and conservative Elizabeth Doll who were outside the King County Election Headquarters in Renton, Washington on Election Day. Dorsey Cartwright, who voted for Harris, and Roger Haynes who backed Trump, spent several hours together close to a polling station in Austin, Texas. The third red/blue pair Martin Hunke (Blue) and Tarleton Ferrin (Red) in Tucson, Arizona. Braver Angels volunteers had posters that said Vote Red, Vote Blue, We're All Americans Through and Through. "People were really warm about it," said Elizabeth. "They seemed sometimes surprised, sometimes amused, but everyone was really receptive." Don said the experience in Renton "was really kind of delightful". Our Blue volunteers, as expected, were deeply saddened by the election result. "I felt some sadness," said Martin Hunke. "I realized that we live in very different worlds. We can't agree on what truth is." "In elections people win and lose, but we as Americans are left with moving forward together," conservative Roger Haynes told us. "We have to learn to win and lose with grace and understand how to be more empathetic with people whose side didn't win... Do we take this as another gotcha moment or do we try to step outside of our tribe and ask what's it like for them?" This episode was produced with the help and encouragement of David Albright, Jessica Jones, and Mónica Guzmán at "A Braver Way" podcast. Our deep thanks to them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, November 01, 2024
Tangle: Independent, Non-partisan News. Isaac Saul
Do you believe what you see in newspapers, websites and on TV? Most Americans don't trust the people who are supposed to truthfully report the news. A new Gallup poll says Americans have record-low trust in mass media. Only one-in-three adults has a "great deal" or a "fair amount" of confidence in the media to report the news "fully, accurately and fairly." More than 150,000 readers each day turn to Tangle , a website read by liberals, conservatives and independents. Every day Tangle tackles one current debate in American politics, and summarizes arguments from left, right, and center. All Sides Bias Checker gives Tangle a "middle" rating, which means the site neither leans left nor right. Our guest, politics reporter Isaac Saul , started Tangle in 2019 as an independent, ad-free, nonpartisan newsletter. He grew up in Bucks County Pa. — one of the most politically divided counties in America — where he was exposed to a huge range of political opinions and values. As a young journalist, Isaac learned the media ecosystem was broken when he found that he wasn’t being judged based on his writing, but where it was being published. On Tangle "you will encounter a wide range of views, including some you really disagree with," Isaac tells us. "We're trying to be a big tent news organization and we are succeeding at that... Our readership is split almost evenly between conservative and liberal readers." "I'm working from the premise that the reds and blues don't understand each other," he says. "I really do want to bring people under one roof with a shared set of arguments to analyze and talk about, and a shared set of facts to work from." About this show: Every couple of weeks we release a new episode hosted by Richard Davies about the work, the ideas, and the people of Braver Angels , a remarkable band of brothers and sisters who get together across political divides in person and online: Reds and Blues who do battle against toxic polarization. In this show we speak with a fellow traveler of this effort. Links to news sites that feature a range of opinions on a single issue: Tangle , All Sides , and <a href="https
Fri, October 25, 2024
Braver Angels Election Day Initiative. Elizabeth Doll and Don Goldberg
Are you fed up with politics and especially the presidential campaign? On How Do We Fix It? we're reporting on the people, projects and ideas of Braver Angels. This nationwide citizen-led movement is a growing coalition of liberals and conservatives working to restore hope and co-operation to our politics. In this episode we speak with a second pair of Red-Blue volunteers who will be working together and meeting voters outside a polling site on November 5th. It's all part of the nationwide Election Day Initiative. Our guests are Elizabeth Doll and Don Goldberg. On election day, they will be outside King County Election HQ in Renton, Washington. "The other is not necessarily the enemy", Don tells us. "They just happen to be another side." Elizabeth agrees and hopes that one result of the Initiative is that Americans "recognize people can be friends... talk about politics with each other, disagree about politics, and still be in relationship with each other." Elizabeth Doll is Director of Braver Politics at Braver Angels. She's been a volunteer, and a consultant for political campaigns in the Pacific NorthWest. Don Goldberg is a writer and political social satirist who now helps transcribe the podcast, "A Braver Way". This episode is a reminder that America's voting system differs across the country. Washington state votes by mai l. All voters receive paper ballots. They put them in drop boxes, or hand in their ballots to the local county elections department on or before election day. You can find out more about the Election Day Initiative on the Braver angels dot org web site. Braver Angels also have local in-person and online events all across the country. Look for one at the "Find an Event" prompt here . This show was put together with help of the production team at " A Braver Way ", a podcast about how Americans of all viewpoints can disagree about politics without losing heart. Thanks to their team David Albright, Jessica Jones and show host Moni Guzman. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 11, 2024
Braver Angels: Red and Blue Voters Together on Election Day
These final days before the election are tense times . Today’s toxic politics are hurtful and heart breaking for many of us. Maybe we all need a hope vaccine. An injection of kindness, curiosity and understanding for those who see the world differently than we do. In our latest report on the work, ideas, and people of Braver Angels , the nationwide citizen-led campaign against political polarization, we learn more about its Election Day Initiative : A volunteer-led effort to push back against political climate change— the hurricane of hate resentment and disdain that many on the left and right feel for the other side. Our guests in this episode are liberal Dorsey Cartwright and conservative Roger Haynes. They are two of many red/blue pairs of citizens who will sit and stand together outside polling places across America. M. Dorsey Cartwright is a retired marriage and family therapist in Austin, Texas. She travelled internationally leading workshops for couples, individuals, adult children and parents, as well as for communities. Valuing the healing of relationships, Dorsey has turned her attention to America’s political environment. First as an active member of No Labels and its mission to depolarize the House and Senate, and then Braver Angels, with its mission to depolarize our citizenship. Her politics lean blue. Red-leaning Roger Haynes is a retired Chief Master Sergeant with 23 years of active military service and he recently left a civil service appointment with the government. He has served in his community in various roles including HOA, City Commission, and is also active helping local Friends of NRA committees raise grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. He’s passionate about the First and Second Amendments. Learn more here about Braver Angels “ American Hope Campaign ”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, September 27, 2024
Braver Angels Trustworthy Elections Report: Larry Mayes and Walt McKee
Elections are vital to all democracies: The authority of the government comes solely from the consent of the governed. But millions of Americans don’t trust the electoral process and have highly negative views of politics .. Many have little or no confidence that all votes will be fairly and accurately counted. What should be done to improve our elections? We discuss reforms that both conservative reds and liberals blues can endorse. Some may surprise you, including ending gerrymandering and the unanimous recommendation on requiring ID to vote. The Braver Angels Trustworthy Elections Initiative held 26 workshops with nearly 200 evenly-balanced Red and Blue participants. Together, they found 727 unanimous points of agreement. Our guests are Larry Mayes and Walt McKee— the Blue and Red Co-Chairs of the Trustworthy Elections Leadership Team. They discuss their recommendations and what they learned together during the past four years. Larry Mayes has over two decades of experience working with elected municipal, state, and federal government officials and community leaders, focusing on driving human development and social capital. He is Senior Vice President for Government and Community Relations for Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of Boston . In 2014, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh appointed Mayes to the Community Ombudsman Oversight Panel. The Panel for several years reviewed Boston Police Department Internal Affairs cases that were on appeal from citizens as well as random investigated cases. Walt McKee lives in Maryland with his wife, Juliana. They have been married for 40 years and have three adult children. He worked as a business entrepreneur and, in addition to Braver Angels activity, Walt serves on two nonprofit boards: Steadfast, which serves homeless youth, and the Sandy Spring Slave Museum and African Art Gallery. In this episode, we also learn more about how Braver Angels will send red and blue voters to polling places across the country on election day, to show Americans that no matter who we’re voting for, we can— and must— get along. It’s easy to take part. Learn more and sign up here at the Election Day Initiative . This episode of “How Do We Fix It?” is our latest report on the work, ideas, and people of <a href="https://braverangels.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_bl
Fri, September 13, 2024
How Braver Angels is Bridging Divides. David Blankenhorn (part 2)
Braver Angels is addressing a huge threat that could disrupt the future of our democratic republic: The rigid, often bitter, divisions between reds and blues. While nearly four in ten voters identify as "independent", more than nine in ten Americans fall into one of two broad categories. They identify as either conservative or liberal leaning and tend to vote for either Republicans or Democrats. "If this country breaks apart, if violence increases to the point where we are killing each other, it will be because of those two groups and the extreme leaders of those two groups," says Braver Angels co-founder and President David Blankenhorn . "That's the division we are looking at. That's the bridge we want to build. That's what's threatening the country." This episode is part two of our "How Do We Fix It?" podcast interview with David. We discuss Braver Angels bridge building by young people. Our conversation also explores America's political divisions and the Braver Angels approach to reforming and rebuilding American political discourse one conversation, one debate, one workshop at a time. In part one— our previous episode— we began by discussing the movement's origin story. Before co-founding Braver Angels, David Blankenhorn led the Institute for American Values, a think tank on civil society. He founded the Mississippi Community Service Corps, the Virginia Community Service Corps, and the Committee for Economic Change at Harvard University. David co-founded the National Fatherhood Initiative, and is the author of five books including his most recent, " In Search of Braver Angels : Getting Along Together in Troubled Times.” This podcast mentions the work Braver Angels is doing on college campuses. One example is how campus free speech debates encourage open minds at Denison University in Ohio. Recommendation : We give shout outs to "A Braver Way" and "Derate The Hate". Móni Guzman of Braver Angels is the host of " A Braver Way ", A podcast about how you - yes YOU - can disagree about politics without losing heart. Another fine bridge building show to listen to is " Derate the Hate " ,hosted by Wilk Wilkinson. This episode is the fifth in a series of podcasts about work, ideas and people of Braver Angels. We’re grateful for their inspiration and support. All our podcasts are available for free <a href="https://www.howdowefixit.me/" rel="noopener
Fri, August 30, 2024
Braver Angels: Past Present & Future. David Blankenhorn (part 1)
“I don’t do this work in optimism. I do it in hope”, Braver Angels President David Blankenhorn tells us. “If we’re going to have any chance to fix this and save our country, this is what needs to be done.” Soon after the tumultuous 2016 election Braver Angels sprung to life— co-founded by David, Bill Doherty and David Lapp. Two years after its founding this nationwide volunteer-led citizen movement had its first convention attended by 72 conservative and 72 liberal delegates. This year, more than 750 reds and blues were at the Braver Angels national convention in Kenosha , Wisconsin. In the past few years Braver Angels workshops , debates, and other events have been held in all 50 states. In this episode, we hear from David about the Braver Angels origin story and much more. We also feature a brief update from Jessie Mannisto , Braver Angels Director of Debates, about her experience as a Braver Angels volunteer outside the DNC Convention in Chicago. Before co-founding Braver Angels, David Blankenhorn led the Institute for American Values, a think tank on civil society. He founded the Mississippi Community Service Corps, the Virginia Community Service Corps, and the Committee for Economic Change at Harvard University. David co-founded the National Fatherhood Initiative, and is the author of five books including “ In Search of Braver Angels : Getting Along Together in Troubled Times.” In our thoughtful and provocative interview we learn more about the urgent need to push against rigid partisan divides. “We do not any longer effectively communicate with one another as citizens. That’s a big statement," says David. “But the more we think about it and the more you look at how we’re working today, I really think it’s true.” This episode is the fourth in a series of podcasts about work, ideas and people of Braver Angels. We’re grateful to them for their inspiration and support. All our podcasts are available for free here . Note : Please Subscribe to
Fri, August 16, 2024
Braver Angels Truth & Trust. Francis Collins and Wilk Wilkinson
When renowned physician-scientist Francis Collins was about to have his first conversation with Christian conservative Wilk Wilkinson in early 2022, he admits that he had concerns. "I thought oh boy, this is going to be a tough one". Dr. Collins had recently stepped down as Director of NIH— The National Institutes of Health. He served under Presidents Obama, Trump, and Biden, and played a leading role in the federal response to the COVID pandemic. Podcaster Wilk Wilkinson , who lives in rural Minnesota, was intensely critical of how the government handled COVID. Today both Francis and Wilk are friends. They lead the Braver Angels ' Truth and Trust Project . The goal is to build trust between ordinary Americans and the public health community in the wake of the pandemic. In each Truth and Trust gathering equal numbers of people from each side of the debate about what happened with public health listen carefully and express their views. In this episode of "How Do We Fix It?", Wilk and Francis discuss their unlikely partnership, what they've learned from those they disagree with, and how they're working together across divides. "We're going to have another pandemic," says Francis. "If we do not learn the lessons of what went right and what went wrong with this one then we're going to be in a terrible spot." Both men still have different opinions on the role of government mandates in health emergencies. "When I look at anything that involves the government it's through the lens of liberty," says Wilk. "If the one entity out there that has a monopoly on force is going to restrict the liberty of the individual they better be 100% sure that what they're doing is really the only option." "I learned a lot by listening, and Wilk was a very good person to listen to, about how the pandemic was different for somebody who was in a very different place than I was", says Francis. "I also learned from Wilk and others in the Truth and Trust sessions about how sometimes the pronouncements from people like me in public health communication came across as very elitist... as opposed to really explaining the circumstance about how imperfect the data was and how uncertain we often were that we were recommending was going to turn out to be right." Francis's forthcoming book, to be published in mid-September, is " The Road to Wisdom : On Truth, Scienc
Fri, August 02, 2024
Braver Angels: Guide Across The Divide. Móni Guzmán
Toxic polarization is "the problem that eats all other problems... It's the sludge at the base of everything else," says our guest Mónica Guzmán . Think how much progress could be made on the great problems of today if politics were much more about discovering nuance than shouting slogans. This show is our second episode on the work, people, and ideas of the volunteer-led cross-partisan campaign, Braver Angels . In the coming months, we'll report on their initiatives and projects. Americans who are pissed off with politics are sometimes called " the exhausted majority ." Many are tuning out toxic, divisive rhetoric that aims to settle scores instead of solving what's broken. Our guest, Braver Angels senior fellow Mónica Guzmán, has suggestions about how to be truly curious and have better conversations with those who see things differently. This loving liberal daughter of conservative immigrant parents who came to the US from Mexico, is a bridge builder, journalist and author. Her podcast is " A Braver Way ". Modi’s recent book is “ I Never Thought of It That Way ." Our "How Do We Fix It?" interview was recorded a couple years ago. This show includes highlights and also an extract from Móni's podcast. "When you want to ask why people believe what they believe, instead ask how they came to believe what they believe," she tells us. When you ask how instead of why, you're asking for their story and then what people do is take you on a tour instead of being put on trial." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 19, 2024
Braver Angels at The Republican Convention: Jessie Mannisto and Luke Nathan Phillips
This is our first in a series of new reports on the work, people and projects of Braver Angels — the largest volunteer-led group in the bridging community. The show was recorded a few days after the assassination attempt against Donald Trump. Our guests are Jessie Mannisto and Luke Nathan Phillips , who spent this week in Milwaukee, right outside the Fiserv Forum Arena, site of the Republican National Convention. Since its founding after the 2016 election, Braver Angels has brought together many hundreds of Republicans, Democrats, and Independents to debate, discuss, and work together to bridge partisan divides. Jessie is Director of Debates at Braver Angels, and Luke is the Publius Fellow For Public Discourse. In this episode we hear about the Braver Angels petition calling on party leaders to detoxify our politics, the mood of Republican delegates and protesters on the streets outside, the differences between media coverage of the event and what its like to be there, as well as responses to Braver Angels and its push back against polarization. "We're at both party conventions because America is at the party conventions," Luke tells us. “It’s just really interesting observing how people are feeling on the ground." "We set up Braver Angels in the wake of the 2016 election trying to keep people from hating their friends and relatives over politics," says Jessie. "Now the stakes are higher. We really are confronted with the possibility of political violence and have seen that is what we're up against.” Braver Angels are working to fix the national crisis of partisan polarization at the heart of America's political paralysis. Last month they hosted America's largest Presidential debate watch party, with hundreds of Republicans, Democrats, and independents in the same room. In this episode we also hear about " A Braver Way ", the podcast hosted by Mónica Guzmán." Her show is, we think, a companion to ours — a personal guide across the divide that gives listeners creative, practical and sometimes playful suggestions about how to disagree over politics without getting angry, depressed or disagreeable. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.co
Trailer · Thu, July 18, 2024
Special Announcement About Our Future
In the last episode Jim Meigs and Richard Davies celebrated more than nine years as co-hosts. They also announced that their podcasting partnership was ending. But "How Do We Fix It?" is not going away. Instead we plan to focus on something we've covered a great deal recently, and is of urgent importance right now: The broken nature of American politics. In the weeks to come, Richard will be the solo host of the show. We'll feature a series of creative, constructive conversations with bridge builder— people who are working to reduce polarization and push back against partisan divides. We'll shine a spotlight on the largest group in the field: Braver Angels. There are many stories we're excited to share with you here on How Do We Fix It? Watch this space. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 28, 2024
Jim & Richard: A Friendship Across Divides
When we first started our podcast in the spring of 2015, Jim and Richard came from different political tribes. They still do. But during more than 400 shows they've deepened their friendship and learned a tremendous amount from each other, and our remarkable guests. While "How Do We Fix It?" podcast will continue its journey, Jim and Richard's nine years as co-hosts ends with this show. We discuss why the partnership is ending (spoiler alert: it's amicable!) and what they discovered about podcasting, politics, and how to navigate divisions at a time of rigid, painful divides. "I feel like when we started, we were a couple of voices in the wilderness, searching for more open-minded conversations, looking for people willing to grapple with facts and ideas that don't fit their comfortable world views," says Jim. "One of our last-minute decisions in those early days was to add a question mark to our title," says Richard. "I'm so glad we decided to do that, because fixing the current political mess starts with better listening and more challenging questions." In the years since we started our voices have grown into a movement. Some call it the bridging space with organizations such as Braver Angels, Heterodox Academy, Living Room Conversations, Listen First, Solutions Journalism Network, Common Ground Committee and many more. Media have also changed with the huge growth of podcasting, Substack, and new news sites such as The Free Press. We've enjoyed hearing from a remarkable range of guests. Among the most successful and persuasive experts are humble about their own opinions and accomplishments. They've been open-minded and curious about the views of those who sharply, and sometimes dismissively, disagreed with them. Standout examples include scientist Alina Chan, journalist and author Jonathan Rausch, writer and podcast host Yascha Mounk, and Moni Guzman of Braver Angels. In this episode Richard and Jim get personal and a bit emotional about where they've changed their minds and personally learned from each other. Please listen! Follow How Do We Fix It? on Facebook and Twitter X . Jim is a senior fellow at The Manhattan Institute . Follow him here on Twitter. He writes for City Journal and Commentary . Richard co-hosts " Let's Find Common Ground " podcast with Ashley Milne-Tyte. He's on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/richard.davies.90260/"
Thu, May 30, 2024
The Case For Ranked Choice Voting. Rob Richie
Supporters of Ranked Choice Voting argue that we need to a big change how we vote. Our “choose-one” elections, they say, deprive voters of meaningful choices, create increasingly toxic campaign cycles, advance candidates who lack broad support and leave voters feeling like our voices are not heard. We examine the case for this form of proportional representation. Ranked Choice Voting could boost electoral turnout, reduce polarization, and cut the public cost of running elections. This relatively new reform is now being used in dozens of states, cities and counties. In 2022, Alaska implemented ranked-choice voting for the first time after a referendum revamped its elections. Our guest, Rob Richie is cofounder and senior analyst at FairVote, makes the case for how it works and why RCV is a viable way to improve electoral politics. Right now, he says, we are in this "incredibly intense winner-take-all environment" in most states. Ranked-choice voting could change the equation. Instead of picking just one candidate, voters rank as many candidates as they want in order of choice: first, second, third and so on. If your first-choice candidate is in last place, your vote counts for your highest-ranked candidate who can win by getting more than 50%. RCV removes voters' concerns that their favored candidate could split the vote. Most Americans agree Congress is not working. Retiring Senators Mitt Romney (Republican - Utah) and Joe Manchin (Democrat - West Virginia) are outspoken supporters of Ranked Choice Voting. “Every incentive in Washington is designed to make politics extreme,” says Manchin. “The growing divide between Democrats and Republicans is paralyzing Congress and worsening our nation’s problems.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 17, 2024
Refuge: A Unique Strength of Liberalism: Professor Bryan Garsten
Liberalism is out of fashion. You might say that it's under siege. From the populist right to the progressive left, liberal touchtones of limited government, personal freedom, the rule of law, and a mixed economy have come in for harsh criticism. Liberalism is assailed by many critics, but it has not failed, argues Yale Political Science Professor Bryan Garsten . "A liberal society is unique in that it offers refuge from the very people it empowers" through "institutions and different political parties. This allows the rest of us to live undisturbed," he says. Supporters argue that this form of liberty most clearly elevates the liberal project. In addition to his research and teaching, Garsten has written recent op-eds for The New York Times . His books include “ Saving Persuasion : A Defense of Rhetoric and Judgement” and a collection of essays he edited about Rousseau and the Age of Enlightenment. This episode is published with assistance from The Journal of Democracy . We are grateful. The most recent print issue includes essays by five authors , who grapple with questions of liberalism's lasting relevance and its challenges for the future. Our interview features a lively discussion about the difference between liberal thought and other "isms" such as neoliberalism, libertarianism and progressivism. We learn more about the importance of community, the limits of individual freedom, and why liberal societies do not produce refugees— arguably another unique source of strength. Professor Garsten is also skeptical of some aspects of modern liberalism. "I think there's a certain language that liberals use, of science, rights and progress which sometimes has been hijacked to justify elite overreach in imposing a vision of the world onto many people of different views," he tells us. "I offer the language of refuge as an alternative way to get at what's morally admirable in liberal societies." Recommendation : Richard has just read the new book by journalist and TV commentator, Fareed Zakaria: " Age of Revolutions. Progress and Backlash From 1600 to the Present ." Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https
Fri, April 19, 2024
The Collapse of Local News and How to Rebuild Regional Journalism: Anna Brugmann
In much of the country local news has collapsed, threatening civic pride and a sense of community for countless towns and cities. This dramatic change has also deepened America's divides . As our guest, journalist and public policy researcher Anna Brugmann explains in this episode, "the internet disrupted the local journalism model". Newspaper advertising revenue fell 80% since 2000. Thousands of local and regional publications closed. Most surviving newsrooms faced drastic cutbacks. Coverage of all kinds of local events— from city hall, school board meetings and football games to local businesses and zoning decisions — disappeared. First, Craigslist displaced print-based classified ads. Then Google, Facebook and other online firms became the main source of consumer advertising. We discuss the impact on local journalism. In recent decades, the news we read and listen to has largely shifted from local reporting to often highly polarizing national opinion journalism. In the first of two episodes on the changing face of the news media, we look at the retreat of local journalism and discuss solutions . These include non-profit media and changes in for-profit business models. Today, many newspapers get more revenue from subscriptions and fundraising drives than from advertising. We ask: how sustainable are these initiatives? Anna Brugmann is policy director for the advocacy organization, Rebuild Local News . According to her group, since 2004, as the U.S. population has grown, the number of newsroom employees has dropped by 57% . "By almost every metric by which you measure a healthy community and a healthy democracy, the trends are in the wrong direction when local news leaves," says Anna. "In the past twenty years more than two thousands newspapers have closed in The United States." Recommendation: Jim is listening to a lot of podcasts since he unplugged his TV and stopped watching broadcast and cable news. Among his current favorite podcasts is " The Reeducation With Eli Lake ". The show "challenges the common narratives the mainstream media and others push". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for m
Fri, March 22, 2024
Diversity Is Great. DEI Isn't. Amna Khalid and Jeff Snyder
Diversity equity and inclusion: Sounds like a good thing in an incredibly diverse country such as ours, especially when teaching young people at American colleges and universities. But the DEI industry - or DEI Inc. — has arguably gone off the rails. There’s a big difference between the intentions behind a lot of diversity training and the results. We learn about the crucial difference between training and education, and hear the case against the Stop WOKE Act in Florida. History professors Amna Khalid and Jeff Snyder share their deep concerns about a growing industry. There is no reliable evidence that diversity, equity and inclusion training sessions at colleges, non-profits, and large corporations actually work. In many places, DEI could be making things worse, imposing an ideological litmus test and encouraging cynicism and dishonesty at places of learning. Amna specializes in modern South Asian history, the history of medicine and the global history of free expression. Growing up under a series of military dictatorships in Pakistan, she has a strong interest in issues relating to free speech. Jeff is also a Professor at Carleton: A historian of education, who studies questions of race, national identity and the purpose of public education in a diverse, democratic society. He’s the author of Making Black History : The Color Line, Culture and Race in the Age of Jim Crow . Jeff and Amna released this YouTube video about DEI. They speak regularly together about academic freedom, free speech and campus politics at colleges and universities. They also write frequently on these issues for newspapers and magazines, including The Chronicle of Higher Education, The New Republic and The Washington Post . Amna hosts a podcast and blog called “Banished,” which explores censorship controversies in the past and present. Recommendation : Richard has been watching " Nada " on Hulu, a gentl
Fri, March 08, 2024
Politics: Majority In The Middle. Shannon Watson
News coverage of Super Tuesday and other party primaries focused mainly on base voters— Democrats and Republicans. But most Americans are actually on the political sidelines or somewhere in the middle. Many have a mix of conservative and liberal views. This episode is about them. Our guest is Shannon Watson , the Founder and Executive Director of Majority in the Middle . Her Minnesota-based non-profit group works to give voters and elected officials a place to gather outside the extremes. "We try to elevate the people who are demonstrating the behavior we want to see", Shannon tells us. "When it's only the rabble-rousers who get the coverage then there is an incentive to be one of them." Majority in the Middle also promotes structural changes in governing that will remove barriers to cooperation across the political aisle. While the two parties have a stranglehold on many aspects of elections and governance, record numbers of Americans no longer register as Republican or Democrat. They prefer the label "independent". At the same time, the right and left have changed. Among pro-Trump conservatives, we see a decline in support for free trade and military spending to help traditional allies. The former president has also resisted calls to limit spending on Medicare and social security. Younger Democrats are much less likely to support Israel. The rise of identity politics has also pushed the party to the left. While we've always had partisan division the level of vitriol can obscure the fact that Americans are much more closely aligned on issues such as gun rights, abortion, and immigration than we are led to believe. "Not all Democrats agree with all Democrats, and not all Republicans agree with all Republicans," says Shannon Watson. Our podcast conversation mentions the Political Typology Quiz, conducted by Pew Research Center . Polling of more than 10,000 U.S. adults showed that while partisan polarization remains a dominant fact of political life, "the gulf that separates Republicans and Democrats sometimes obscures the divisions and diversity of views that exist within both partisan coalitions – and the fact that many Americans do not fit easily into either one." You can take the Typology Quiz here and see your personal views fit in with nine broad categories of left and right. Recommendation : Jim enjoyed reading "<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/61714
Fri, February 09, 2024
Changing Journalism: Boosting Trust in the News Media. Joy Mayer
Only four-in-ten Americans say they have a lot of trust in the news media. That's a big problem for our democracy, especially in this volatile presidential election year. While journalists are supposed to tell the truth and get the story right, just 35% of right-of-center voters have some trust in what they see on the news. Democrats and independents are much more likely to trust journalists, but Americans of almost all shades of opinion are skeptical of the journalists, not only questioning the quality of their work but the intentions behind it. Our guest is Joy Mayer , Director of the non-profit group, Trusting News , which has partnered with many local newsrooms around the country to help journalists earn consumers' trust. While many reporters, writers and editors are reluctant to discuss their politics, most journalists have liberal or progressive views. "I think it's something we need to talk about more openly," Joy tells us. In this episode, we look at bias, transparency, and constructive steps that the newsrooms can take to improve their reputation with a broad cross-section of Americans. We first recorded our interview with Joy in the late summer of 2021. Since then polling shows that the gulf between many journalists and their readers, listeners, and viewers is as wide as ever. Americans of all political views are switching off the news. Audiences are shrinking for local TV stations, most newspapers and public radio, even as they release podcasts, email newsletters and other newer forms of content. Polling by Pew Research found that more than half of journalists surveyed say every side does not always deserve equal coverage in the news. But three-quarters of the public say journalists should always strive to give all sides equal coverage. Recommendation: Richard has just finished watching the first two seasons of " Dark Winds ", a TV thriller and crime drama set on a Navajo Indian reservation in the southwest. Almost all of the actors and crew are native americans. Richard says: "This series is beautiful, exciting and compelling. The acting is first rate The scenery alone is reason enough to watch it." Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noo
Fri, January 26, 2024
Ideas For Everyone: The Virtues of a Liberal Education. Roosevelt Montás
What is the point of a good education? Do we need it to learn a narrow set of skills ro help us get ahead in the workplace, or should knowledge and learning to be used over a lifetime to acquire wisdom that enables us to think more deeply about our place in the world? This question has profound resonance at a time of angry divides over American politics and moral confusion at elite American universities. The President of Harvard, Claudine Gay, resigned after months of campus unrest and controversy. In December, Gay and two other university presidents faced widespread criticism for their testimony at Congressional hearings about antisemitism on their campuses. In this episode, we hear from an university educator who makes the case for liberal education that gives students the tools needed to have a deeper sense of purpose. Roosevelt Montás is the author of " Rescuing Socrates : How The Great Books Changed My Life And Why They Matter For a New Generation". He believes that the ideas and writings of Plato, Socrates, Shakespeare, Ghandi and many others aren't just for a few privileged students. They're for everybody, and that encountering these thinkers as a poor immigrant teenager changed his life. Montás is senior lecturer in American Studies and English at Columbia University, and director of the Center for American Studies Freedom and Citizenship Program, which introduces low-income high school students to primary texts in moral and political thought, as well as seminars in American Studies including “Freedom and Citizenship in the United States.” From 2008 to 2018, he was director of Columbia’s Center for the Core Curriculum . "There is a prevailing cultural attitude that liberal education— the study of literature and philosophy — is appropriate only to the elite," Roosevelt tells us. "That is a really pernicious idea." He argues that the students who benefit the most from the foundational wisdom in the "great books" come from poor and marginalized backgrounds. Recommendation: Richard watched and greatly enjoyed the Anglo-Japanese Netflix TV series, " Giri / Haji ", — duty/shame in Japanese— a thriller about a Tokyo detective scouring the London underworld to find his allegedly deceased brother. The series was filmed in Tokyo and London. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, January 12, 2024
What Could Go Right? 2024 Predictions Show
From the economy and prospects for a Biden vs Trump rematch to the future for global energy and artificial intelligence, Richard and Jim make their forecasts for 2024. And we re-visit our predictions from exactly a year ago and report on precisely how we did. "It's sort of like weather forecasters and opinion pollsters going back and owning up to their mistakes," says Richard. "I mean, who often do we see that!" Once again, Meigs and Davies make their best guesses about what's to come this year. Will Donald Trump maintain his slim lead in the polls over President Biden? Is there a much higher risk than most experts expect for energy supplies during the winter months? How big are the chances for a wider war in the Middle East? Fresh off his A+ forecast on the 2023 economy, when Richard out-forecasted the overwhelming majority of experts, we'll get more predictions about this year. Don't make any more investments without hearing this episode! Jim, who writes with perception and foresight about nuclear power and our frayed power grid, will share his updated insights on the year to come for energy, and attempts to cut carbon dioxide levels in the Earth's atmosphere. We also hear about the migration crisis on the Southern border, the long frustrating retreat of COVID, and the grim outlook for the war in Ukraine. As usual, both hosts share some surprising opinions and air a few lively disagreements. Read Jim's new article in City Journal, " Where Now For Nuclear Power ". Listen to our sister show " Let's Find Common Ground ". Here's their latest episode with Christian Science Monitor Editor, Mark Sappenfield. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, December 29, 2023
How to Escape The Identity Trap - Yascha Mounk (part two)
We continue our discussion with Yascha Mounk, one of the leading public intellectuals of our time. The subject is a hugely influential ideology that attempts to put racial, sexual and gender identity at the center of our social, cultural and political life. The "identity synthesis", Mounk argues, denies that members of different groups can truly understand one another and this stifles public discourse. In this podcast episode, we learn why an obsession with identity undermines social justice, fuels culture wars, and boosts hateful hardliners on the right and left— from Donald Trump to protesters who support Hamas and its murderous attacks on Israeli civilians. We also hear how to politely but firmly push back against those who have become ensnared in " The Identity Trap ," the name of Yascha Mounk's new book. "Categories like race and gender and sexual orientation help to explain what's going on in the world, but they're not the only categories that help to explain it," Mounk tells us. "There's also social class, religion and patriotism as well as individual actions, attributes and aspirations." "The Identity Trap" has been called "the most ambitious and comprehensive account to date of the origins, consequences and limitations" of "wokeness". In our last episode, Yascha Mounk explained how postmodernism, postcolonialism and critical race theory gained currency on many college campuses by 2020. Today, a simplified version of these ideas exerts a strong influence in business, government and media. In this episode, Mounk urges listeners to claim the moral high ground. "Don’t apologize about arguing against a worldview that emphasizes identity to the exclusion of other factors". Recognize we have genuine disagreements but argue for convictions that you believe will result in a better world. People are open to persuasion, he says. Mounk mentions two of the most effective critics of the identity ideology were once very drawn to it: Maurice Mitchell of the Working Families Party and interfaith organizer, Eboo Patel . Recommendation : Richard has just read " The Speech ", by Gary Younge, who writes for the Guardian and The Nation. His book is the story behind Martin Luther King Jr.'s powerful "I have a Dream" speech delivered to a vast audience in 1963. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privac
Fri, December 15, 2023
The Origins of Today's Identity Politics - Yascha Mounk (part one)
Having skewered right-wing populism and its demagogues in his two previous best-selling books, politics professor, writer, and podcaster Yasha Mounk turns now to the threat posed to liberalism from those progressives who champion "woke" identity politics. We discuss his latest, " The Identity Trap : A Story of Ideas and Power In Our Time ." This episode— the first of two with Yasha Mounk — looks at the complex roots of a highly influential ideology based on personal identity— specifically race, gender and sexual orientation. These are said to determine a person's power, role in society, and how they see themselves. Mounk explains how the identity synthesis, which has become widely accepted in many universities, nonprofits and large corporations, had its origins in several intellectual traditions, including post-colonialism, postmodernism and critical race theory. Our interview mentions ideas and concepts raised by Michel Foucault , Derrick Bell , Kimberlé Krenshaw , Edward Said , Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak , and others. We learn how these thinkers sharply criticized modern liberalism and the civil rights movement of the Sixties and beyond. Yascha Mounk is a German-born American who teaches international affairs at Johns Hopkins University. His writing appears in The Atlantic and other publications. He is also founder and editor-in-chief of the Substack publication " Persuasion ", and hosts the podcast, " The Good Fight ". Mounk's new book has won widespread critical praise. The Washington Post said that "Mounk has told the story of the Great Awokening better than any other writer who has attempted to make sense of it." Recommendation : Jim is reading " UFO: The Inside Story of the US Government's Search for Alien Life Here— and Out There: by Garrett Graff. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_bla
Fri, December 01, 2023
Imaging a Better Future. How Doomers Prevent Progress. James Pethokoukis
Yes, it's our 400th episode. But instead of looking back over the past eight-and-a-half years of our podcasts, we consider the future: How collective optimism or pessimism can have a huge impact on the economy, risk taking, and the acceptance of new technologies that spark growth and innovation. Our guest is scholar and journalist James Pethokoukis of the American Enterprise Institute, author of " The Conservative Futurist : How To Create the Sci-Fi World We Were Promised." In this episode he argues that in the decades after World War Two and during the space race, America was the world's dream factory. TV and movies helped to turn imagination into reality, from curing polio to landing on the Moon to creating the internet. In those years we were confident that more wonders lay just over the horizon: clean and infinite energy, a cure for cancer, computers and robots as humanity’s great helpers. But as we moved into the late 20th century, we grew cautious, even cynical, about what the future held and our ability to shape it. James Pethokoukis says that this year— 2023— marks the 50th anniversary of the start of the Great Downshift in technological progress and economic growth, followed by decades of economic stagnation, downsized dreams, and a popular culture fixated on catastrophe. "If you cannot imagine or have someone present a plausible imagining of a better tomorrow, why should we take any risks today?", Jim tells us. "There will be failures. Failure is part of taking a risk. It's part of a capitalist economy, and if you're not seeing failures, you're not taking large enough risks or a big enough swing at the plate" In our interview examine the impact of popular entertainment and its impact on our collective ambitions: "I think it influences how we think about the future, and that influences the decisions we make right now in the present." We discuss the current debate over artificial intelligence, and how future breakthroughs might be held back: "If all we can imagine is AI taking all our jobs, only enriching a slice of the population or somehow killing us, why would we want to do anything?" Among public policy decisions James Pethokoukis endorses are a dramatic increase in government spending on research and development as well as sharp cuts in red tape and severe environmental restrictions that prevent the construction of new transmission lines and other building blocks for clean technology projects. This is a wide-ranging conversation. In the interview we mention the controversial best-selling book, "<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Population_Bomb" rel="noopener noreferrer" t
Fri, November 17, 2023
Polarization Series: Bridging Divides at Braver Angels. Erica Manuel and Manu Meel
Affective polarization in America – the gap between voters' positive feelings about their own political party or "side" and negative feelings toward the opposing party – has sharply increased during the past two decades. We speak with two leaders in local government and a nationwide students group about effective ways to bridge divides. Erica Manuel is CEO and Executive Director at the Institute for Local Government in Roseville, California. She has over 20 years of experience helping public, private and nonprofit organizations implement innovative policies to provide strong leadership, advance climate resilience, support economic development, engage communities, and drive positive change. Manu Meel is CEO of BridgeUSA , a student-led nonprofit organization that creates spaces at colleges and high schools for open discussion among students about political issues. BridgeUSA began in 2016 at the universities of Notre Dame, CU-Boulder and UC Berkeley in response to growing polarization on campus. Erica and Manu were interviewed by our co-host Richard Davies at the 2023 Braver Angels Convention in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Both of them played leading roles at the cross-partisan gathering of Democrats, Republicans and independent citizens. Braver Angels is part of the growing movement of bridging organizations, who are finding new ways to push back against rigid and dehumanizing political divides. Many young people on college campuses are "just scared to say what's on their minds, and walking on eggshells," Manu tells us. He blames "the loudest voices" for silencing open discussion. "This is not a problem of the majority," he says. "It is a problem of the loudest voices imposing their closed-mindedness on an exhausted majority." Both Erica and Manu insist they're hopeful that the crisis of polarization can be successfully overcome. "I'm hopeful because not a single person I've talked to has said why on earth would you do that? Why on earth would you talk to someone on the other side? Why on earth would you want to treat someone like a human being with dignity?" Erica tells Richard. Recommendation : Jim recommends Commentary Magazine , a monthly publication of conservative "non-Trumpy" opinion. He writes its tech commentary and is a frequent guest on Commentary's <a href="https://radiopublic.com/the-co
Fri, November 03, 2023
Polarization Series: The Soul of Civility. Alexandra Hudson
It's easy to look at the impacts of rigid polarization and blame our leaders and political parties, the media, or the education system. In this episode, we hear an argument that the first thing all of us should do is focus on what we can control: ourselves. We discuss how to learn to live with others despite deep divisions. All democracies need protests and debates to flourish. But we also need to respect ourselves and acknowledge the dignity of others. Alexandra Hudson is the author of the new book, " The Soul of Civility ", and an adjunct professor in philanthropy at Indiana University. She argues that civility is a key solution for polarization and a breakdown in social order. In her writing she examines how civility—a respect for the humanity of others—transcends political disagreements. Civility, she writes, is not a technique, but a disposition: "a way of seeing others as beings endowed with dignity and inherently valuable." The divided state of the world "is a timeless problem. It's an intractable problem, but there's no policy solutions or simple cure," Lexi tells us. "It requires constant vigilance on behalf of each of us. That's humbling." We learn about the crucial difference between outward politeness, polish or poise, and civility which requires constant internal work and the application of true character. We individually have the power to improve and change, Lexi says. Her book looks at arguments for civility from the ancient times until the present day. Recommendation : Richard recently read " The Spinning Heart " by the Irish writer Donal Ryan. This short, powerful novel set in a small town in Ireland in the wake of the 2008 financial collapse. People are left without work, with routine and meaning in their lives. Each short chapter is from the vantage point of a different speaker who has been wounded — by the economy as well as by their parents, their lovers, by life. The book is funny and poignant. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 20, 2023
Polarization Series: The Keys to Good Conflict. Hélène Biandudi Hofer
Destructive conflict aims to destroy the other side. But constructive conflict can be a force for good. In this episode we learn how good conflict helps move people beyond polarization, slogans, and angry tweets to a place where they can connect and grow— even as they strongly disagree. Hélène Biandudi Hofer says that when we have the vocabulary and basic skills to investigate conflict with curiosity, it can change everything. Journalists Hélène Biandudi Hofer and Amanda Ripley co-founded Good Conflict , which works with news organizations, non-profits, elected officials, educators, religious leaders, and others to lean into conflict in a constructive, productive way. Hélène developed and managed the Solutions Journalism Network ’s Complicating the Narratives project. She trained more than a thousand journalists across 125 newsrooms throughout the world. "I believe story is the most underutilized and under-appreciated thing to help people understand those we disagree with and who are vastly different from ourselves," she tells us. In this podcast, we hear about the specific tools, skills and vocabulary Hélène uses to help people respond to disagreements without sliding into contempt. Co-hosts and Richard come to this subject from very different places. While Richard says he "sometimes falls into a trap of trying to avoid conflict and ignoring that it's a needed part of life." Jim responds: "I like a good argument. I think it's healthy and kind of exciting sometimes to have a difference of opinion, especially with a good friend." This episode and others about polarization are funded in part by a grant from Solutions Journalism Network. Richard is one of this year's Complicating The Narratives Fellows. This week's recommendation : Jim is an enthusiastic listener to the podcast, " The Rest Is History ", hosted by historians Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 06, 2023
Polarization Series: Is Social Media to Blame? Professor Chris Bail
Almost everyone has an opinion about the impact of social media on political polarization. Most of us believe that Twitter, Facebook, Reddit, YouTube and other sites have made our civic life more angry and divided. But how much of this is true? Are consumers as much to blame as the platforms themselves? 15 years ago, in the very early days of social media, many Americans had a much more positive view of this new technology. It was bringing friends and families together, opening up new sources of information, and that was viewed as a good thing. We discuss the surprising findings of research into social media and polarization with Professor Chris Bail, founder of the Polarization Lab at Duke University. He’s the author of the 2021 book, “ Breaking The Social Media Prism .” Bail studies political tribalism, extremism, and social psychology using data from social media and research from computational social science. This show was recorded during a week of chaos on Capitol Hill, right after the historic ouster of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy . Republican Congressman Matt Gaetz who led the push to remove McCarthy, is one of a new generation of performative politicians, known more for their huge social media followings than their ability to get things done. Both Democrat and Republican hardliners are among those who have used Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to push politics to the extremes. Compromise is considered a dirty word by these politicians. Working out the complex, time-consuming details of legislation is hardly the stuff of clicks or headlines. In this episode we complicate the current social media narrative, learning more about algorithms, and user responses to them. This show is part of our podcast series on polarization, funded in part with a generous grant from Solutions Journalism Network . This non-profit group is about t
Fri, September 22, 2023
Polarization: My Side Is Wrong. Jim & Richard
Have you ever been asked by a political opponent to describe what's wrong or weak about your own side's arguments? That's what Richard and Jim do here. This episode could have been ripped from a Braver Angels training seminar, but to our knowledge, no other podcast has tried this before. Liberal-leaning Richard takes on three hot topics, picked by Jim, where the left is wrong. Jim does the same thing for his side, discussing three examples picked by Richard. The ground rules are simple: No "your-side-ism". When describing the failings of their own side neither host was allowed to criticize their opponents. If they do, a loud bell rings. Listen to find out how many times the darn thing goes off! The six topics are: - Liberals try to do too much and as a result their policies backfire. - Conservatives fail to challenge populism, Donald Trump, and stand up for democracy. - The left hugely underestimates the cost of their spending programs. - The right ignores the huge increase in public debt. - Liberals are too quick to decide that anyone who disagrees with them is not only misinformed but evil. - Too many Conservatives deny the reality of climate change. One big failure in American politics is that neither side understands the other. Both Democratic and Republican voters have major misconceptions about what supporters of the other party actually believe. This weakens the arguments of both, and has a dire impact on public policy making and the quality of debates. Issues discussed by Richard and Jim include homelessness in California, recent changes in the Republican Party, the alarming rise in government deficits and debt, and the changing nature of the conservative debate over climate. Among articles mentioned in this podcast are Jim's writing about The New Green Right and Against The Wind about problems with wind energy and coverage about homelessness in The Atlantic and New York Times . Recommendation : Richard read the new book by Richard Haass: " The Bill of Obligations — The Ten Habits of Good Cit
Fri, September 08, 2023
Polarization: Is America Too Fragmented? Rick Pildes and Lee Drutman
Why is American politics so dysfunctional? Is it because we are too polarized or too fragmented? Throughout this fall we will be exploring different aspects of polarization— arguably the most important threat to both effective governance and a stable democracy. This episode includes an edited recording of a lively conversation from the podcast, " Politics In Question ", between Rick Pildes , Professor of Constitutional Law at NYU School of Law, and political scientist Lee Drutman , a senior research fellow at the New America Foundation. Lee has been a guest on several previous episodes of "How Do We Fix It?". Author of the book, " Breaking the Two Party Doomloop : The Case for Multiparty Democracy in America", Lee is known as an advocate for proportional representation with ranked-choice voting, arguing that it would reduce political polarization and minimize the risks of democratic backsliding. Rick is skeptical of this analysis, and argues that "the most pervasive and perhaps deepest challenge facing virtually all Western democracies today is the political fragmentation of democratic politics." He has written widely about this topic. Thank you to our friends at "Politics In Question", who have given us permission to share their interview. Both "Politics In Question" and "How Do We Fix It?" are members of The Democracy Group , a network that shares political podcasts about democracy, civic engagement and civil discourse. This episode is part of a fall series made with support and funding from Solutions Journalism Network — a non-profit training and advocacy organization. SJN trains journalists to focus on what the news misses most often: How people are trying to solve problems and what we can learn from their successes and failures. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, August 25, 2023
American Polarization: Political and Personal. Mónica Guzmán
Toxic polarization is "the problem that eats all other problems... It's the sludge at the base of everything else," our guest Mónica Guzmán tells us. In this really useful repeat episode from 2022, we learn how to fight back against the confusion and heartbreak of living with rigid divides. This show is a curtain raiser for a series we are doing this fall with funding from Solutions Journalism Network . We will be examining threats to our society from polarization and recent efforts to build a national movement to bridge divides. Monica is a bridge builder and author of the highly-praised book " I Never Thought Of It That Way : How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times ". She serves as a Senior Fellow for Public Practice at the national depolarization organization, Braver Angels . This interview contains surprises. One of them, says Monica, is that "the anger and the rage that we see out there that defines our division doesn't actually exist that much on the one-to-one level," She argues that the best tool we can use to have successful conversations with those we disagree with is our own curiosity. We also learn about Monica's personal story as the loving liberal daughter of Mexican immigrants who strongly supported Donald Trump. We hear how Mónica discovered ways to overcome divisions that hurt our relationships and society. In this episode, Monica discusses how we can put our natural sense of wonder to work, finding the answers needed to work with people, rather than score points against them. Bridging the gap involves asking questions that help you get across the difficult divides that are causing so much pain in our families and communities. We also learn about the work and practice of Braver Angels and its current campaign, " Rise For America ." Hosted on Acast. See acast
Fri, August 11, 2023
A Bigger Tent for Democrats: Lanae Erickson
Why aren’t Democrats doing much better in elections for Congress and also in state races? We explore several reasons. One is that Democrats have been losing the support of many black, white and hispanic working class voters. We heard a forceful argument about that in "How Do We Fix It?" episode #389 with Ruy Teixeira. In this show we expand the argument and look at another group of voters often ignored by Democratic party leaders— Christians and especially Catholics who are among the largest group of swing voters. This is a shared podcast with " Talkin' Politics and Religion Without Killin' Each Other ". Their show and ours are members of the Democracy Group podcast network, Our guest is Lanae Erickson , Senior Vice President at Third Way, a center-left think tank that champions pragmatic liberal ideas. She spoke earlier this year with Talkin' Politics and Religion's host, Corey Nathan. Thank you, Corey, for giving us permission to share an edited version of a rich and thoughtful conversation. We hear from Lanae about why she's a pragmatic progressive. She argues that the only way America can make lasting progress on major issues is to include different sides in a debate. We learn why so many elected officials and activists treat public policy as an all or nothing proposition. "I would say we should try to get what we could done, and then do it again, do it again and do it again, instead of holding out and making the perfect the enemy of the good," she told Corey Nathan. As Senior Vice President for Social Policy & Politics at Third Way, Lanae tackles hot-button issues like immigration, abortion, religious liberty, education and guns. Previously, Lanae served as a member of President Obama’s Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships. Her commentary has been featured in The Washington Post, The New York Times, USA Today, Politico and PBS NewsHour. Lanae is also principal second violinist in Washington DC's Capital City Symphony . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 28, 2023
The Fight to Save the Town: Michelle Wilde Anderson
Globalization, technology, devastating impacts from the foreclosure crisis and the opioid addiction have wreaked havoc on communities left behind by the modern economy. Some of these discarded places are rural. Others are cities or suburbs. Some vote blue, others red. Some are the most diverse communities in America, while others are nearly all white, all Latino, or all Black. In this episode we visit four cities and towns with deep poverty and gutted public services— where entire communities are struggling to hold on. Our guest is Michelle Wilde Anderson , a professor of property, local government and environmental justice at Stanford Law School. Her recent book is " The Fight to Save the Town : Reimagining Discarded America". "We have given up on many of these places", Michelle tells us. She describes discarded America as "giant parts of many states that have not found their foothold in the 21st century economy." Discarded America is "a term that describes active decision making." Her book describes the fallout from decades of cuts to local government amidst rising segregation by income and race. She reports on efforts to revive four communities— Stockton California, Lawrence Massachusetts, Josephine County Oregon, and Detroit. The focus is on local activists, community leaders, elected officials and others who have poured their heart and soul into fighting for the places where they live. In these places and others some of the most basic aspects of local government services have been dismantled. This podcast was first published last year and is a companion piece to "How Do We Fix It?" episode #390— "For the Love of Cities" with Peter Kageyama. In this episode we learn about brave and innovative efforts to cope with years of falling tax receipts in many communities that were hit hard by the foreclosure crisis, and decades of economic decline as jobs and entire industries moved offshore or to other parts of the country. As always with our podcast, there is also a focus on solutions, as we discuss examples of civic pride and rebuilding. Michelle Wilde Anderson book Review: " Building Back Better — One Community at a Time (New York Times). Recommendation: Richard watched the FX drama series, " The Old Man ", starring Jeff Bridges, John Lithgow, Amy Brenneman and Alia Shawkat. <p style='color:grey; font-size
Fri, July 14, 2023
For the Love of Cities. Peter Kageyama
Why do we connect emotionally with some places and not others? Why does that matter? What does loving the place you live in have to do with healing the partisan divide? We explore these questions and hear about solutions from author, researcher and speaker Peter Kageyama . This shared episode is an edited version of a podcast released earlier this year by " Village Squarecast ". Our show includes extracts from a speech delivered at a special meeting of The Village Square in Tallahassee, Florida. Peter Kageyama is the author of For the Love of Cities : The Love Affair Between People and Their Places , the follow up, Love Where You Live: Creating Emotionally Engaging Places and his latest, The Emotional Infrastructure of Places. He loves cities and is the former President of Creative Tampa Bay, a grassroots community change organization and the co-founder of the Creative Cities Summit, an interdisciplinary conference that brings citizens and practitioners together around the big idea of ‘the city.’ "The mutual love affair between people and their place is one of the most powerful influences in our lives, yet rarely thought of in terms of a relationship," says Peter. "As cities begin thinking of themselves as engaged in a relationship with their citizens, and citizens begin to consider their emotional connections with their places, we open up new possibilities in community, social and economic development by including the most powerful of motivators—the human heart—in our toolkit of city-making." In this episode we learn about the importance of "high touch" local entrepreneurs and local innovators who send "love notes" to the places where they live. Peter shares creative initiatives and speaks of the work of local innovators and public artists. Examples mentioned here include the transformation of Times Square's public space in New York City, The Bean (Cloud Gate) in Chicago, and the Grand Rapids Lip Dub . A warm thankyou to Liz Joyner , President and CEO of The Village Square for giving us permission to share this episode. Village Square is a non-profit organization based in Tallahassee, Florida. It "builds community in our hometown across the ideologic
Fri, June 30, 2023
Where Have All The Democrats Gone? Ruy Teixeira
American politics are evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans. But our guest argues that it doesn't have to be this way. He tells fellow Democrats: "Given the problems the Republicans have, why aren't you beating the hell out of these people?" Political scientist and author Ruy Teixeira says that recent election results have been a lost opportunity as the left pursued identity politics instead of focusing on class. While more white college-educated voters have abandoned the Republicans in the past decade, Democrats have lost ground among white and hispanic working class voters. "That's a fundamental question that Democrats should be confronting, but don't," he tells us. Ruy Teixeira is among America's best-known political thinkers. He's a senior fellow at The American Enterprise Institute, where he writes and does research about changing party coalitions and the future of electoral politics. He calls himself a social democrat. He is co-author with John Judis of " The Emerging American Majority " that was published two decades ago. The highly influential book argued that Democrats would gain a lasting advantage in twenty-first century America. But the party has not made significant gains. Their next book, out this fall, is called " Where Have the All Democrats Gone? : The Soul Of The Party In The Age of Extremes". In this episode we hear about a wake-up call for Democrats. Teixieira argues for a return to policies of growth, prosperity and economic abundance that enabled the left to dominate American politics in much of the second half of the last century. Recommendation: Richard has read James Wilson's critically acclaimed and profoundly moving book " The Earth Shall Weep : A History of Native America." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 16, 2023
Should Money Be Free? Rethinking Interest Rates. Edward Chancellor
Ever since the 2008 financial crisis and recession, central bankers and most economists have agreed that it's good to keep interest rates as low as possible. Making it easy to borrow money very cheaply helps the economy recover from recessions and the COVID pandemic. But what if very cheap money has unintended consequences such as asset bubbles and bank failures, and benefits the haves much more than the have-nots of society? Our guest is financial analyst, journalist, and historian Edward Chancellor , author of the new book, " The Price of Time , The Real Story of Interest". Edward specializes in financial crises— bubbles, crashes and panics. He uses examples from history to challenge conventional wisdom about near-zero interest rates, and walks though his arguments in a relatable way. "If you reduce the cost of borrowing, you will increase the amount of debt," Edward tells us. "Is it socially just to get large numbers of people into debt that they can't pay, to get them to buy cars they can't afford?" The idea of charging interest on loans has been around as long as civilization. In ancient Mesopotamia they invented interest before humans learned how to put wheels on carts. Yet throughout history interest or usury has been considered immoral by religious leaders and even philosophers. Edward Chancellor offers a robust defense of the need for interest rates. "Interest is the difference in value of something over time," he explains. "You could say it's the exchange rate between the present and the future." We recorded this episode at the headquarters of The Manhattan Institute in New York. Thank you to Brianna Mangat for recording our conversation and to everyone who made this podcast possible. Recommendation: Jim is a frequent listener to The Glenn Show , a podcast about race, inequality and economics in the US and throughout the world with Professor Glenn Loury. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 02, 2023
The Middle 70%. In This Together: Bill Shireman
"America is rigidly divided between red and blue." That's what we're constantly being told by pundits, politicians and media outlets, both left and right. But what if that wasn't quite true? On a surprisingly large number of issues, Americans agree on the broad outlines of public policy. Author, conflict mediator, and social entrepreneur, Bill Shireman makes the case that the middle 70% of the public should have a much greater say in who gets elected to make laws and decide policy. "All it takes is a small number of folks who are aware of how we're being gamed to build a bridge between the political left and right, Bill says. "We need a relatively small percentage of voters who will not divide the way we are triggered to divide," Bill argues that the media and political industry make money and gain power by dividing Americans and making us mad at the other side. "The middle 70%" does not necessarily mean moderates. Bill calls them "the silenced majority of us who are common-sense, reality-based voters who can work out our differences." Some are conservatives or progressives, while others have a mix of opinions on social and economic issues. The House of Representatives vote for the debt ceiling bill is an example of what Bill is talking about. Despite furious denunciations by legislators on the progressive left and Freedom Caucus right, the compromise bill passed by an overwhelming margin. President Biden and House Republican leaders quietly worked together. More about Bill Shireman: Host of the podcast series " A Moment of BS Bill Shireman Disrupts the Dividers". President of Future 500 , where he invites Greenpeace, ExxonMobil, Rainforest Action Network, Mitsubishi and other corporate and environmental leaders to work together. Bill co-chairs the Donor Roundtable and its citizen recruitment initiative, In This Together . He's the author of seven books. The most recent is " In This Together : How Republicans, Democrats, Capitalists and Activists are Uniting to Tackle Climate Change and More. Bill teaches leadership and negotiations at the <a href="https://haas.berkeley.edu/" rel="no
Thu, May 18, 2023
AI Revolution: Disaster or Great Leap Forward? Nathanael Fast
Generative Artificial Intelligence has the power to transform lives and change our jobs. In this episode, we discuss the potential for good and bad from large, creative AI models such as ChatGPT. Our guest is Nathanael Fast , who serves as Director of the Neely Center for Ethical Leadership and Decision Making and Co-Director of the Psychology of Technology Institute . Professor Fast teaches in the MBA, Ph.D., and Executive Education programs at USC Marshall in Los Angeles. ChatGPT reached over 100 million active users within two months of its release. Consumers have used it to write essays, take tests, crack jokes and write poetry in response to questions or prompts. We raise the questions we need to ask about rapidly changing forms of artificial intelligence. Should we be scared or excited… or both? With calls for new regulation, even from the industry itself, policy makers and the public need to gain a fuller understanding of the AI revolution. This episode introduces listeners to the meaning of large language models and generative AI. Nate Fast argues that if we want to understand and improve the future, we’ll need to focus on the adoption of technology and how AI, social media and other platforms shape human psychology. Recommendation: Jim has been listening “ The Spear ”, from The Modern War Institute at West Point. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, May 04, 2023
US-UK Relations. Fit for a King? Richard and Jim
The Coronation of King Charles III promises to be very big on pomp and circumstance, but it may also play a leading role in healing divisions between post-Brexit Britain and the European Union. Leading EU officials will be in attendance at Westminster Abbey. This podcast shares a personal perspective on some of the momentous changes in the UK over recent years, and includes comparisons between the hot topics on both sides of The Atlantic. Our co-host Richard last lived in London in the 1970's and 80's. During late March and April he returned, spending a month there. Richard tells us that forty years ago London was "darker, smellier, poorer, louder and less orderly than the great city of today." He shares examples that illustrate this shift, as well as discussing the great impact of Brexit on the UK economy and politics. Jim and Richard examine the special relationship between the US and UK plus similarities and differences in debates over cancel culture, populism, immigration and abortion. The 2016 Brexit vote that led to the UK's withdrawal from the EU has not been the disaster that many had forecast. But the British economy is losing ground compared to other leading nations of Europe. Growth is flat and a small recession is forecast for later this year. Compare this with Ireland— still inside the EU— where the economy has been growing at more than twice the European average. The Irish growth rate may be as high as 8% this year. Recommendations : Refreshed after his recent trip, Richard urges listeners, if possible, to head overseas for at least a week or two. Travel is not only a tonic for the soul, but also broadens our political and cultural perspectives. During his trip, Richard read two fine books about the world-class city: " London: A Short History ", a short, fluid and lively account by E.N. Wilson, and the much longer " London: The Biography ", by Peter Ackroyd. Both give the reader a rich sense of London's very long and layered story. Anti-recommendation : Jim urges listeners to be very skeptical about the accuracy of ChatGPT , the artificial intelligence chatbot. While researching an article for The Manhattan Institute recently, Jim came across potentially alarming examples of made-up quotes and magazine article
Thu, April 20, 2023
What's The Future of Journalism? Nikki Usher
The news media and journalists themselves are faced with a crisis of confidence and trust. The internet broke the old business model of locally-based newspaper reporting and replaced it with national opinion journalism written by and for well-educated metropolitan elites. Our guest is Nikki Usher , Associate Professor at the University of San Diego, who studies journalism, politics, tech, and power. Nikki's recent book is " News For The Rich, White and Blue : How Place and Power Distort American Journalism". In our conversation we look at the loss of place in American journalism, the gap between "news haves and have-nots", and how technology can be used to challenge old journalistic models and lead to new ways of delivering news to audiences that have been poorly served in the past. For decades the polling firm Gallup has been asking Americans: "How much confidence and trust do you have in the news media?" In the 1970's more than two-thirds of the public said they had a great deal or a fair amount of confidence. Today, the proportion is down to one-third. Most Americans distrust what they read, see, or hear from news outlets. A minuscule 7% of Americans have "a great deal" of trust and confidence in the media. We ask how do we fix it? and how journalists can gain a better understanding of why so many readers, viewers, and listeners believe that they tell lies or simply don't care about the truth. In this episode, we hear about efforts by The Los Angeles Times and Philadelphia Inquirer to reassess their roles in the community. We also learn about growing non-profit regional news organizations such as The Voice of San Diego and the Connecticut Mirror . Jim and Richard also discuss the work of the online platform Substack . Recommendation : Richard enjoys listening to the podcast series, " Rumble Strip ", produced and hosted by Erica Heilman. This extraordinary show was profiled in The New Yorker and won a 2021 Peabody Award for the episode, "<a href="https://peabodyawards.com/award-profile/finn-and-the-bell/" rel="noopener nor
Thu, April 06, 2023
Let's Rebuild Local News: Anna Brugmann
In much of the country local news has collapsed, threatening civic pride and a sense of community for countless towns and cities. This dramatic change has also deepened America's divides . As our guest, journalist and public policy researcher Anna Brugmann explains in this episode, "the internet disrupted the local journalism model". Newspaper advertising revenue fell 80% since 2000. Thousands of local and regional publications closed. Most surviving newsrooms faced drastic cutbacks. Coverage of all kinds of local events— from city hall, school board meetings and football games to local businesses and zoning decisions — disappeared. First, Craigslist displaced print-based classified ads. Then Google, Facebook and other online firms became the main source of consumer advertising. We discuss the impact on local journalism. In recent decades, the news we read and listen to has largely shifted from local reporting to often highly polarizing national opinion journalism. In the first of two episodes on the changing face of the news media, we look at the retreat of local journalism and discuss solutions . These include non-profit media and changes in for-profit business models. Today, many newspapers get more revenue from subscriptions and fundraising drives than from advertising. We ask: how sustainable are these initiatives? Anna Brugmann is policy director for the advocacy organization, Rebuild Local News . According to her group, since 2004, as the U.S. population has grown, the number of newsroom employees has dropped by 57% . "By almost every metric by which you measure a healthy community and a healthy democracy, the trends are in the wrong direction when local news leaves," says Anna. "In the past twenty years more than two thousands newspapers have closed in The United States." Recommendation : Jim is listening to a lot of podcasts since he unplugged his TV and stopped watching broadcast and cable news. Among his current favorite podcasts is " The Reeducation With Eli Lake ". The show "challenges the common narratives the mainstream media and others push". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy</a
Thu, March 23, 2023
Risky Business: More Bank Collapses Ahead? Allison Schrager
Rising interest rates and the end of easy money were two factors in the sudden collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and a subsequent stock market run on shares of regional banks. Questions were raised about the safety of the entire U.S. banking industry. We examine risk in banking, investing and the broader economy. Federal regulators faced harsh criticism for the latest bank failures. Progressives blamed politicians who eased regulations on medium-sized and small banks. Some on the right claimed that DEI — Diversity, Equity and Inclusion — distracted SVB from focusing on risk management. Our guest is economist and risk expert Allison Schrager , author of " An Economist Walks Into a Brothel : And Other Unexpected Places to Understand Risk". She also writes frequently for Bloomberg Opinion and City Journal . This episode looks at the causes of the recent bank panic and the current outlook for the financial industry. "Safety is the foundation of finance and it is also how we price risk," Allison tells us in this episode. Everyone assumes that holding government-backed securities is safe. "But long-duration bonds are very sensitive to changes in bond yields." If interest rates go up, "bond prices on long-dated securities go down a lot." SVB was heavily invested in these securities. But many of its depositors, including tech firms and venture capitalists, were highly sensitive to rate rises. In mid-March, despite reassurances from top executives, SVB's depositors pulled their money out. It was a sudden online version of an old-fashioned bank run. We look at potential solutions and hazards for investors and the economy, including the perils of inflation, the dangers of groupthink, why investors and bank executives should feel some pain when an institution fails, and the need for risk management that takes a broad range of economic possibilities into account. Allison recently <a h
Thu, March 09, 2023
Ukraine: Why The War With Russia Has Changed The World: Marci Shore
The people of Ukraine are facing down a military giant. Their unity and bravery in the bloody, cruel year since the Russia invasion are an inspiration to the rest of the world. Instead of talking about politics or the state of the war, we consider the battlefield of ideas. Above all this show is an attempt to put the war into context: What’s at stake for Western democracy, and what space does Ukraine fit in our history? We speak again with Marci Shore , professor of European cultural & intellectual history at Yale University. She first appeared on "How Do We Fix It?" a year ago. In 2018 she received a Guggenheim Fellowship for her current book project, a history of phenomenology in East-Central Europe, tentatively titled “Eyeglasses Floating in Space: Central European Encounters That Came about While Searching for Truth.” Her most recent book is “ The Ukrainian Night: An Intimate History of Revolution ”. This show is a companion piece to episode #380 with Jacob Mchangama. We hear a very thoughtful, passionate account of the war. "These are my friends and colleagues who are being slaughtered," Marci Shore tell us."That is first and foremost why the war is so personal for me." She describes the war as "the decisive end of what Francis Fukuyama had called the end of history." Marci is Jewish, and a well-known scholar of Eastern Europe in the post-Soviet era. As a young child she listened to elderly relatives who had once been victims of Tsarist pogroms— riots aimed at expelling and killing Jews and other members of ethnic or religious groups in a region that includes present-day Ukraine. She tells us why "Ukraine has emerged as a subject and not an object in world consciousness." In this episode we also discuss the work of The Reckoning Projec t— a coalition of human rights activists, journalists and archivists who are using the power of story-telling and legal accountability to document truth. The project has uncovered evidence and is conducting first-person interviews about Russian abuses and cruelty in occupied parts of Ukraine. Recommendation: Jim is looking at the extraordinary work of photojournalist Lynsey Addario and others who risk their lives to capture vital moments during the wars. Her work photos have been published by The New York Times . <p style='color:grey; fon
Thu, February 23, 2023
Ukraine and the Wider Conflict. Values at Stake: Jacob Mchangama
By any measure this has been a momentous week for global politics. President Biden’s surprise trip to Kyiv , his “freedom” speech in Warsaw, the visit of China’s top diplomat to Moscow, and Vladimir Putin’s decision to suspend Russian participation in the last remaining nuclear arms treaty with the U.S. are all signs of deepening big-power tensions. This coincides with the first anniversary of the bloodiest conflict in Europe since World War Two. In the early hours of February 24 last year Putin’s tanks rolled across Ukraine’s borders. Our podcast guest is well-known human rights advocate, Jacob Mchangama , CEO of the Danish think tank Justitia, and author of the recent book, “ Free Speech : A History From Socrates to Social Media”. We discuss the Ukraine war's broader implications for fundamental values that are a vital part of the growing struggle between the West autocratic powers. One of the biggest surprises of the past year has been the strength of European and American support for President Zelenskyy and Ukraine. “I’m very heartened by it,” says Mchangama. “It’s a good antidote to a decay of the West and complacency of democracies narrative that has been driving some of the authoritarian backlash.” “Even a year in, there still seems to be solid support in many countries for the Ukrainian cause and for continuing to supply them with the means to defend themselves and hopefully decisively turn the tide.” Today, it could well be argued that Joe Biden is the first cold war President since Ronald Reagan. In this episode, we learn why free speech is so vital to oppressed groups and racial minorities. We examine the recent "free speech recession", and how to ensure that young people are better equipped to deal with misinformation on social media and the internet. Recommendation : Richard has recently watched and enjoyed three movies on the big screen in theaters. They are: "Everything Everywhere All at Once", the British film "Living" and the Irish movie "The Banshees of Inisherin". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, February 08, 2023
Avoiding Debt-Ceiling Disaster: Chris Low
The last time the U.S. faced a major showdown over the debt ceiling was a decade ago. Much like today, House Republicans insisted on spending cuts before they would vote to raise the amount of money the government could borrow. Then-President Obama and now-President Biden said they would not negotiate. Who will blink first? Nearly all economists and financial experts say that a debt default would have extremely serious consequences for the everyday economy and America's place in the world. We look at the massive U.S. debt mountain , which has leverage in the current game of chicken, and discusses why both political parties are so reluctant to get serious about the debt. Our guest, fixed income specialist, and economist, Chris Low of FHN Financial comes up with potential fixes. This show is an explainer— ideal for anyone who wants to learn about the crisis and understand the fundamental difference between debt and annual deficits. We look at reasons for the huge increase in government red ink in recent years, which include the impact of the COVID pandemic, and recovering from the 2008-9 financial crisis. U.S. debt is an astonishing six times what it was in 2000— the largest it's ever been compared with the size of the economy. The Government hit the $31.4 trillion legal limit last month, forcing a potential crisis. By law, the ceiling must be raised or the U.S. will fail to pay some of its debts. If this happens, a recession or worse could be one of the consequences. "If you miss a payment it is a default," Chris Low tells us. "The U.S. credit rating would go from the second highest possible to the lowest possible overnight." A default "would be painful, and that pain would be felt by every business, every consumer, every household that borrows." Recommendation : Richard has just read "The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Free Yourself and Your Family From a Lifetime of Clutter." During their conversation at the end of the show, Jim says "death cleaning" is a terrible way of describing a sensible practice. Richard suggests that "streamlining" might be easier on the ear. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, January 26, 2023
Anti-Racism: The Pro-Human Approach. Bion Bartning
Sixty years ago in his most famous speech , the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke of his vision of an America transformed. "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character," he said. Was this an argument for a color-blind society, or should racism be thought of as structural and systematic? Ibram X. Khendi, author of the best-selling book, " How To Be An AntiRacist ", argues that "the most threatening racist movement" is the drive for race-neutrality. Our guest, Bion Bartning , argues that instead of emphasizing our common humanity, the approach of Kendhi and others lumps people into simplistic racial groupings. Bartning founded the non-profit group, The Foundation Against Intolerance and Racism (FAIR). In its mission statement, FAIR calls for "advancing civil rights and liberties for all Americans, and promoting a common culture based on fairness, understanding and humanity." "Really, we should be anti-racism, the ideology, and not anti-racist, the individual," Bartning tells us. He calls for a pro-human approach. "There is a burning need to reaffirm the core principles of the civil rights movement... integration, healing divisions and moving forward together as one people." He says that in recent years a different form of anti-racism has emerged that goes against these ideas. Bartning launched FAIR after pulling his two children out of one of New York City's most prestigious private schools because he thought that the new anti-racist curriculum was encouraging kids to look at themselves and others primarily through the lens of race and see the world in a pessimistic, grievance-oriented way. We discuss his personal story and ideas in this episode. Recommendation: Richard has just read and thoroughly enjoyed John Steinbeck's beloved 1962 memoir, " Travels With Charley, In Search of America " Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/p
Thu, January 12, 2023
Pushing Back Against Polarization: The Village Square. Liz Joyner
One way to help solve America's polarization crisis is to hang out with someone not like you. Someone who sees the world differently or comes from a cultural background, social class, racial or ethnic group other than your own. While social media, political elites and national news outlets profit from polarization, the rest of us do not. This episode looks at one highly successful local initiative to push back against the conflict entrepreneurs who want to make us angry, fearful and divided. Our guest is Liz Joyner , founder and President of The Village Square , a non-profit based in Tallahassee, Florida, dedicated to reviving civic connections across divisions inside American communities. For the past 17 years she's been the leader of an organization that describes itself as "a nervy bunch of liberals and conservatives who believe that dialogue and disagreement make for a good conversation, a good country and a good time" Most of us live in neighborhoods and among friends who think like us, especially about politics. That’s a problem because not only are we divided, but don’t understand the other side. The number of people who say our country is headed in the wrong direction has remained very high throughout most of the past decade. Liz believes that with the help of food and a sense of humor all kinds of people can be in the same room. They don't have to agree, but in many cases she says, Americans are not as divided as we think. "We disagree in soundbites that professional polarizers are working to divide us over, but in paragraphs we agree way more than we think we do," she tells us. As for the polarizers? "l think they're playing us all, and we ought to be done with them," Liz tells us. The Village Square has organized dozens of public events, ranging from a few dozen people to audiences of more than a thousand breaking bread and enjoying a lively conversation. Recommendation : Jim is reading " The Matter of Everything " by physicist and science communicator Dr. Suzie Sheehy. The book is a journey through the experiments that not only unlocked the nature of matter and shaped our understanding of the cosmos, but also changed the way we live. Bonus Recommendation : Jim enjoys listening to The Glenn Show podcast with economist Glenn Loury. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for
Thu, December 29, 2022
What Will We Fix in 2023? Jim & Richard's Predictions
2022 was another year of COVID-induced anxiety with widespread worries about democracy, polarization, climate change and threats to democracy. But in this new year special Richard and Jim say we have reached peak fear. America may well be calming down and headed towards a new sense of normal. Our co-hosts throw caution to the wind with a series of fresh outside-the-box forecasts for the twelve months to come. We make predictions about the retreat of COVID, the outlook for inflation, and the migration crisis on the southern border that threatens havoc for the Administration. Hear what could happen next in Ukraine's war against Russian aggression. We also look closely at China's new struggles with COVID, street protests, and slowing growth. In a special section on technology and science, we focus on stunning advances in cancer and Alzheimer treatments plus new innovations in AI and the likely impact of ChatGTP, the app that's just been released to the public and is already raising ethical issues for schools, universities, and employers. We promise to release a scorecard of how we did at the end of the year. Is Jim right when he says there is a real likelihood of a new energy crisis in 2023? Is Richard's forecast about the 2024 Presidential race on target? Jim and Richard also share their year-end hopes for the new year and recommendations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, December 15, 2022
The Costs of Culture Wars: Curiosity at Risk. Deborah Appleman
In some ways, our culture is less tolerant and more fragile than it once was. The teaching of literature in schools and colleges is often caught in the crossfire of the culture wars. Support for canceling books and authors by the illiberal left and demands to ban books from the reactionary right have led to the removal of important literature from classrooms and libraries. In this episode author and literature professor, Deborah Appleman mounts a rousing case for teaching troubling texts in troubling times . "Our classrooms need to remain a space where critical thinking is taught, tolerance from different viewpoints is modeled, and the sometimes-harsh truth of our history and literary heritage are not hidden," she says. Her latest book is " Literature and The New Culture Wars ." Professor Appleman taught high school English for nine years before receiving her doctorate from the University of Minnesota. She is chair of Educational Studies at Carleton College. Her recent research has focused on teaching college-level language and literature courses to the incarcerated. We discuss how free speech and free thinking are under assault from puritans from the right and the left. We examine the costs to curiosity as well as to open and free inquiry— so essential to a thriving democracy. We look at the impact of the recent global pandemic on teaching and education. "Life is tough. Life is hard and full of bumps and bruises,' Professor Appleman tells us. "You can't hide the hurt of life from young people. Literature is not life but it can be in some ways a preparation for what life has to offer us." "Doing no harm does not mean causing no discomfort for students. Learning requires cognitive dissonance. Learning requires that you are off-balance both psychologically and emotionally sometimes....It's in disequilibrium that we learn." Read more here from Pamela Paul of The New York Times. She wrote this year about the impact of book bans on the publishing industry: "Parents, schools and readers should demand access to all kinds of books, whether they personally approve of the content or not. For those on the illiberal left to conduct their own campaigns of censorship while bemoaning the book-burning impulses of the right is to violate the core tenets of liberalism. We’re better than this." Recommendation: Richard has read "<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/books/this-is-happiness-is-an-unforgettable-trip-to-a-lost-ir
Thu, December 01, 2022
Our Electricity Grid is Surprisingly Fragile: Meredith Angwin
Every day Americans take the reliable supply of electricity for granted. Except during severe storms, we rarely, if ever, think that the lights might not turn on in the morning. But in some parts of the country, consumers face the threat of rolling blackouts, and sudden surges in the price of electricity. Nearly two years ago, nearly 300 people died when the Texas power grid partially failed during a winter cold snap. California came close to a grid collapse last summer. And New England might be in big trouble this coming winter. Energy analyst, author, and chemist, Meredith Angwin , is our guest in this episode of "How Do We Fix It?" Her latest book is “ Shorting the Grid : The Hidden Fragility of our Electric Grid.” In recent years, our podcast co-host Jim Meigs has written extensively on energy , and says it's a bad idea to shut down nuclear power plants that supply large amounts of reliable energy and aren't dependent on the weather. But the threatened electricity grid crisis is not just about how we make power—it’s how we deliver power to users. For big chunks of the country that system has changed radically in recent decades. Reforms that were meant to make our energy system more competitive backfired. The fragile gird matters more than at any time in memory for three reasons: - The need to decarbonize energy production to limit the future impacts of climate change. - Modern technology requires a big increase in electricity output. - The geopolitical clash over energy has grown more intense and violent since Putin's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. We also discuss why it's not enough to add more solar panels, wind turbines and hydro-electric power to the system. We need new and improved transmission lines to move all that power. Recommendation : Richard is watching " Extraordinary Attorney Woo<
Thu, November 17, 2022
Democracy: The Voters Verdict. Layla Zaidane and David Meyers
We have a 2022 post-election show with a twist. Instead of focusing on which party is up or down, we open the hood and examine the engine of our democracy. Voters delivered a clear verdict: Most election deniers were defeated as many voters, especially independents, split their ballots, and shunned the extremes. Our guests are Layla Zaidane , President and CEO of Millennial Action Project— the nation's largest nonpartisan organization of young lawmakers— and David Meyers , founding Executive Editor of the democracy newsletter, The Fulcrum. In the days before the election, the media was full of warnings, and perhaps some hyperbole, about the perilous state of American democracy. Both of our guests and podcast co-hosts agree that many of the results were reassuring for the guardrails of the electoral system. "I think when the dust settles we're going to feel pretty good about this election," Layla told us. "Things went really well," said David. "The continued use of voting-by-mail and early voting has gone a long way towards making sure more people had the opportunity to vote and not wait in very long lines." We also examine the arguments over Ranked-Choice Voting , open primaries , and the need for a quicker vote account in some states where results took well over a week to come through. In their conversation after the interview, Jim and Richard debate voting-my-mail, early voting, reforming the primaries, and how to encourage states to make improvements in vote tabulation. Richard favors limited action by Congress, but Jim is vigorously opposed to any federal reforms or interference in how states conduct their elections. Recommendation : Richard is reading " Broken News . Why the Media Rage Machine Divides America and How to Fight Back", by political journalist Chris Stirewalt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, November 03, 2022
Fixing the Housing Affordability Crisis. Ed Glaeser
No other issue has greater potential for common ground than America's housing affordability crisis. Progressives and conservatives alike agree that for far too many Americans there is a critical shortage of available homes. Since COVID erupted in 2020 the costs of apartment rentals and homes to buy have soared. According to the real estate firm Zillow , average U.S. home prices doubled in the past decade. In recent months mortgage rates went up to levels not seen in nearly two decades. With the growing possibility of a recession in the near future, there is no shortage of pessimism in the housing market today. We discuss solutions to the housing mess with Harvard University economist Ed Glaeser , author of " Rethinking Federal Housing Policy: How to Make Housing Plentiful and Affordable", "Survival of the City: Living and Thriving in an Age of Isolation" and many other books. Among the topics raised: The role played by zoning and environmental regulations in limiting homebuilding, Long-standing local resistance to new housing, The potential for pre-fabricated building to sharply reduce the cost of construction, Why giant companies face far few hurdles to business growth than many small neighborhood firms, and recent moves by some urban politicians on the left to support plans by developers to build new homes, even if much of it is neither subsidized nor fully affordable. "The whole COVID era has been a spectacular time for housing price increases," Glaeser tells us. The shortage of homes for sale is one reason. So is rising demand for additional space as millions more people work from home. Another cause is "the longer-term dysfunction of our housing markets in failing to produce enough supply." Recommendation : Jim is reading " How The World Really Works " by Canadian professor Vaclav Smil, author of more than forty books on topics including energy, environmental and population change, food production and nutrition, technical innovation, and public policy. A special thank you to <a href="https://www.manhattan-institute.org/" rel="noopener noreferr
Thu, October 20, 2022
Homecoming: The Case for a Post-Global World with Rana Foroohar
For much of the past fifty years, American political leaders of both parties have assumed that globalization and free trade would lead to more opportunity, higher living standards and increased business efficiency. But our guest, author and Financial Times columnist, Rana Foroohar , argues that with supply chain disruptions and growing economic insecurity in much of the world, the long reign of globalization is coming to end. A shift to more resilient and local businesses is now at hand. We discuss the reporting and findings in the brand new book, " Homecoming : The Path to Prosperity in a Post-Global World." "I think the pendulum of the old way is tapped out," Rana tells us. "Cheap money is over. Cheap labor from China is largely over. Cheap energy from Russia is definitely over." The war in Ukraine and the political and economic chaos that followed have brought the fragility of the global economic and political system into sharp relief. We discuss the argument that our economy is far too financialized and that this is leading to greater mistrust, vast inequality and more populist autocrats. As we do in all of our shows, we hear potential solutions. Rana argues that place-based economics and a wave of technological innovations now make it possible to keep investment and wealth closer to home. She makes the case that our economic system needs to be transformed Recommendation : Jim is thoroughly enjoying " Fly on the Wall ", a podcast with Saturday Night Live alumni Dana Carvey and David Spade. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 14, 2022
They Changed Our Minds. Alina Chan and Jonathan Rauch
How do you tell the difference between truth and lies? The answer involves a careful process of seeking knowledge that may contradict our long held beliefs. In this episode, our hosts share two conversations with expert guests who changed Jim and Richard's minds about how they approach topics central to our understanding of politics, science, and society. Journalist and scholar Jonathan Rauch is the author of the best-selling book, " The Constitution of Knowledge ". He makes a stirring case for the social system of checks and balances used by scientists, lawyers, business leaders, and researchers to turn disagreements into verifiable facts. Alina Chan is a Canadian molecular biologist specializing in gene therapy and cell engineering at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, where she is a postdoctoral fellow. Chan is the co-author of " Viral : The Search for the Origin of COVID-19." When she and several other scientists raised the possibility that the SARS CoV2 could have escaped from a lab, Chan's research was dismissed by many leading scientists and mainstream journalists. Some declared that her work was "a conspiracy theory." But Chan continues to ask crucial questions. The world needs to know the true origins of the pandemic in order to prevent the next dangerous virus from causing a future pandemic. A full and open investigation was never done. Both of our interviews underline the need for nuance, curiosity and open-minded approaches to the world's great problems. The "global network of people hunting for each others' errors is far and away the greatest technology ever invented," Rauch tells us. The constitution of knowledge, he says, "is a global conversation of people looking for truth, and more especially, looking for error." Recommendation : Richard is reading " Broken News " by political journalist Chris Stirewalt . This new book provides a crisp, passionate, well-judged argument of how the media rage machine divides America. Reporters in newsrooms are incentivized to write news stories that are full of emotion and anger. These reports very often get the most clicks and social media attention. This emphasis on anger and rage has p
Thu, September 29, 2022
Junk Science in the American Criminal Justice System. M. Chris Fabricant
No one will ever know how many innocent people have been sent to prison because of junk science and flawed forensics. In this episode, we hear from Innocence Project attorney M. Chris Fabricant about how America’s broken and racist criminal justice system often relies on bogus scientific evidence for convictions. Chris is the author of the new book, “ Junk Science and the American Criminal Justice System .” Best-selling writer John Grisham calls it an “intriguing and beautifully crafted book that …illustrates how wrongful convictions occur.” We explore the urgent need to fix the system and improve the quality of evidence presented in courtrooms. Independent crime labs are among the solutions that we discuss. “Jurors go into court with the expectation that there will be scientific evidence available, and that this evidence will be conclusive. This is just not the reality at all,” Chris tells us. We learn that forensic “experts” call themselves scientists but the current system lacks safeguards that keep science objective. Worse, this very questionable discipline has been corrupting the American justice system since at least the 1970s. Chris Fabricant is the director of strategic litigation for the Innocence Project — a remarkable legal organization that works to free prisoners jailed for crimes they did not commit. Over three decades, the Innocence Project has freed more than 300 unjustly convicted prisoners. And more than 40% of those cases involved the misuse of forensic evidence. In this episode, we hear about cases of people wrongly convicted, many of them on death row. The interview begins with the remarkable and tragic case of Eddie Lee Howard, who spent 26 years in prison insisting that he was innocent. He was finally freed early last year after his murder conviction was overturned after a years-long legal defense by The Innocence Project. Recommendation: Richard and Jim both read and recommend “ Land: How the Hunger for Ownership Shaped the Modern World ”, by Simon Winchester. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, September 16, 2022
Clean, Green, Affordable Energy: Jim Meigs
Energy prices have skyrocketed this year. Rolling blackouts are still a threat in California, and as winter approaches Europe is facing a full-blown crisis that may cause widespread suffering, factory closures and a deep recession. Angered by the West's support of Ukraine, Russia has shut down supplies of natural gas that European nations had relied on for decades to heat homes and run industry. The EU, United Kingdom and others are now scrambling to find new supplies and reassure their citizens that the crisis can be contained. In this episode we discuss efforts to reduce carbon emissions and consider why the outlook for affordable energy has deteriorated. Our podcast co-host Jim Meigs is the expert source for this episode. He argues that shutting down nuclear power plants, having unrealistic expectations of solar and wind production, and ignoring years of threats from Russia have all contributed to the energy crisis. Earlier this year, Jim joined the Manhattan Institute as a senior fellow and a contributing editor of City Journal. His recent commentary for the magazine, "The Green War on Clean Energy", makes the case that progressives and socialists in the environmental movement have waged a fight against technology that would cut carbon emissions. Jim says that "nuclear energy is the only technology to dramatically reduce America's carbon footprint." We consider the case for and against this view. We examine promising new technologies such as carbon capture and improved battery storage. And we look at the Republican ridicule of ambitious attempts to fight climate change, and consider whether conservative views about the need for action are fundamentally changing. Recommendation : Richard has just read " Land : How The Hunger For Ownership Shaped The Modern World", by Anglo-American author and journalist, Simon Winchester. This 2021 book received glowing reviews .may Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, September 09, 2022
Richard and Jim's Quick Announcement
Starting this week we will publish new shows every other Thursday. After seven plus years of being a weekly podcast, Jim and Richard decided that we need a little more time and love to make and share each new show. We will also be sharing more details on our newsletter sent to friends and free subscribers of our podcast. You can sign up for regular updates right here on the website. Unlike substack and other independent publications, our solutions journalism podcast is entirely free. If you'd like to support us, please go to our funding page at Patreon. Since we started "How Do We Fix It?" seven years ago both hosts have become even busier. Richard works as a consultant , producer or host of other podcasts and writes a column for The Fulcrum , a daily online newsletter about bridging divides and democracy. Jim was recently given the honor of being a senior fellow and contributing editor of City Journal at the Manhattan Institute . Next week we'll release a new podcast episode based on some of his latest research and reporting on energy. As always, thanks for listening! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, September 02, 2022
Trump, Power Politics, Populism & Democracy. Darrell West
The recent controversy about the seizure of classified government documents at Mar-a-Lago is only the latest example of outrage over former President Trump's behavior, and the responses to it. But the forces shaking American democracy didn't begin with Trump's arrival on the political scene. We learn why populism, polarization and other threats to public institutions will likely last for the foreseeable future. Our guest, Darrell West , vice president of Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution in Washington D.C., is the author of " Power Politics : Trump and the Assault on American Democracy." He's the author of 19 books on American politics and has won several prestigious awards for his writing. In this episode we discuss why the grievances exploited by Trump that existed well before he became president, the threat of extreme authoritarianism, the role played by technological and social media, and Darrell West's constructive advice for protecting people, organizations and the country from challenges to democracy. Our lively conversation also looks at the systemic causes of current threats to American democracy, procedural justice, and a reason-based society. Jim and Richard also debate Darrell West's analysis of the challenges that we all face. Recommendation: Jim is reading " The Facemaker : A Visionary Surgeon's Battle to Mend the Disfigured Soldiers of World War 1" by Lindsey Fitzharris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, August 26, 2022
Democracy Reform: Ranked-Choice Voting. Rob Richie
Ranked-choice voting (RCV) is a promising way to boost electoral turnout, reduce polarization, and cut the public cost of running elections. This relatively new reform is now being used in 55 states, cities and counties. In August, Alaska implemented ranked-choice voting for the first time since a 2020 referendum revamped its elections. Our guest, Rob Richie , President and CEO of FairVote, makes the case for how it works and why RCV is a viable way to improve electoral politics. Right now, he says, we are in this "incredibly intense winner-take-all environment" in most states. Ranked-choice voting could change the equation. Instead of picking just one candidate, voters rank as many candidates as they want in order of choice: first, second, third and so on. If your first-choice candidate is in last place, your vote counts for your highest-ranked candidate who can win by getting more than 50%. RCV removes voters' concerns that their favored candidate could split the vote. Alaska and Maine now use RCV for all presidential and congressional elections. Beginning in 2023, Hawai will use it for some federal and local elections. Open primaries and ranked-choice voting will be on the ballot this November in Nevada . The vast majority of Americans live in landslide districts. To make elections more competitive, Rob is also calling for multi-member congressional districts. Both reforms, he tells us, would lead to "a more representative and functional Congress" that would "regain legitimacy" with voters. RCV is now winning support among Democrats and Republicans. In 2021 it was used for the first time to elect Eric Adams, the Mayor of New York City and in the Republican primary for the Governor of Virginia, Glenn Youngkin . Numerous cities, counties and states are actively considering Ranked Choice Voting. In their conversation, Richard and Jim debate the merits and drawbacks of RCV. Richard embraces it wholeheartedly, while Jim cautiously supports using it in primaries, where the current system can lead to more extreme candidates being selected by their parties. Recommendation: Richard urges voters to read and share The 2022 <a hr
Fri, August 19, 2022
Democracy Reform: Propositions & Ballot Initiatives. Jenna Spinelle
The promise and perils of direct democracy are at the heart of the debate over voter propositions and ballot initiatives. They have emerged as one way that citizens in more than two dozen U.S. states can vote directly on policy and bring issues they care about to their fellow voters. This episode is inspired by the recent podcast series, " When The People Decide ", from The McCourtney Institute for Democracy . The show's producer, writer and host, Jenna Spinelle , tells the stories of some remarkable people who have organized initiative campaigns across the country. We speak with her about the history of ballot measures, including California's Prop 13 in 1978, and more recent efforts to expand Medicaid. Ballot initiatives are "a very powerful tool that citizens have, particularly when there is broad support for change to an existing policy or law", Jenna tells us. Over the past four decades in California and elsewhere the political establishment has been frequently shaken by the results. In this episode we hear about the story of Desmond Meade, the voting rights activist who led a winning ballot initiative to change Florida’s constitution to give people like him — with past felony convictions — the right to vote. Desmond is Executive Director of The Florida Rights Restoration Coalition , which led the campaign that resulted in America’s largest expansion of voting rights since the civil rights era. We also speak about Katie Fahey , the democracy activist who led the successful grassroots effort to ban partisan gerrymandering in Michigan. At " Voters Not Politicians ", she organized thousands of volunteers who collected over 425,000 voter signatures for Proposal 2, a ballot initiative amending the state constitution to create an independent redistricting commission. We also spoke at length with Katie in episode #262 . Recommendation : Jim is reading "<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59427482-junk-science-and-the-american-criminal-justice-syst
Fri, August 12, 2022
What Personal Passion and Purpose Bring To Our Lives
World-renowned author and scientist Neil deGrasse Tyson became fascinated with astrophysics when he was a teenager. Best-selling science writer Mary Roach is known for her quirky humor and wide-eyed curiosity as she explores the often bizarre science of human behavior. This episode includes six unique perspectives about passion, purpose, and meaning in our own lives. Investment advisor and wealth manager Karen Firestone shares a story about a chance encounter with advice columnist Ann Landers , who gave her a new understanding of risk vs. reward. Obstetrician-gynecologist Rose Gowen speaks about her mission to get her small city with a large obesity problem to exercise more and eat better food. Emily Esfahani Smith , author of "The Power of Meaning", talks about her passion for learning from strangers. Long-distance trucker Finn Murphy reveals a long-time love of America's roads and highways. What we share today was sparked by our guests who bring deep intellect, emotion, and enthusiasm to the microphone as they reflect on what excites and moves them about their work and fields of expertise. All of us can learn from their wisdom as we seek ways to lead more fulfilling lives and make a difference to others in huge and tiny ways. This episode was first recorded in 2017. Recommendation: Jim has been thoroughly enjoying the new 2022 Netflix series, " Like a Rolling Stone : The Life & Times of Ben Fong-Torres". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, August 05, 2022
Framing Is Vital For Survival. Kenneth Cukier and Francis de Véricourt
From pandemics, populism and climate change, AI and ISIS, inflation and growing tensions with China and Russia, we are faced with enormous challenges— some of which threaten our existence. In this episode we discuss how we are all influenced by our personal perspectives and prejudices— our frames— and how we can use mental models to see patterns, solve problems and go beyond a narrow lens of red vs. blue or "us" vs. "them." Our guests are Kenneth Cukier , deputy executive editor of "The Economist" and Francis de Véricourt , professor of management science at the European School of Management and Technology in Berlin. Both are co-authors of " Framers . Human Advantage in an Age of Technology and Turmoil." This innovative book shows how framing is not just a way to improve decision-making in an age of algorithms and machine learning, but also a matter for survival at a time of upheaval. Real-world examples of how framers changed the world include: The rapid rise of #MeToo , which went viral on Twitter after the actress Alyssa Milano tweeted a request to her followers: “If you’ve been sexually harassed or assaulted write ‘me too’ as a reply to this tweet.” Successful, innovative responses to Covid-19 were made by the governments of New Zealand and Taiwan . Recently, the Federal Reserve was forced to change its inflation frame before beginning a series of interest rate hikes. In our interview we learn why the advice to "think outside the box" is useless, and how to understand the role of mental models in our own daily lives. Recommendation : Jim and Richard suggest a puzzle: The New York Times Spelling Bee . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 29, 2022
Common Ground. The People vs. Congress: JP Thomas, Gail Hoffman
American voters are deeply dissatisfied with the government in Washington. They feel shut out of Congressional deliberations. We discuss a promising new initiative that helps engage citizens much more directly in the work of Congress and state legislatures. While Congressional gridlock has reached a new high , groundbreaking new research that we report on in this episode shows that the American people are far less polarized than elected officials. There is extensive bipartisan common ground on a surprising range of controversial issues— from abortion and immigration to the environment and law enforcement. Our guests are Gail Hoffman , President of The Hoffman Group, a public affairs strategist and consultant for the Program for Public Consultation at the University of Maryland, and Voice of the People. She has served in federal and state government, including in the Clinton White House and in the U.S. Justice Department under Attorney General Janet Reno. JP Thomas is Voice of the People's Director of External Relations, and an organizer and government relations professional, who develops campaigns and strategies to promote the use of public consultation to consult citizens on key public policy issues. "When you actually look at the things that need to be done to fix things in this country, the degree of agreement and commonality is remarkable," Gail tells us. The debate in Congress is not a reflection of the American people and where they stand and the American people know that." The Program for Public Consultation has developed detailed policymaking simulations that put citizens in the shoes of a policymaker. They get a briefing on policy options under consideration and evaluate the pros and cons of an issue and then make recommendations. We walk through this process and discuss how this detailed research is profoundly different from traditional polls and surveys of voters. This effort to "put the public back in public service" was recently featured in The New York Times. Recommendation: Richard enjoyed the hit movie "<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2022/
Fri, July 22, 2022
The Fight to Save Discarded Places: Michelle Wilde Anderson
Neighborhood, local and regional inequality has been overlooked too long. In this episode we visit four cities and towns with deep poverty and gutted public services— where entire communities are struggling to hold on. Our guest is Michelle Wilde Anderson , a professor of property, local government and environmental justice at Stanford Law School. Her new book is " The Fight to Save the Town : Reimagining Discarded America". "We have given up on many of these places", Michelle tells us. Discarded America is "a term that describes active decision making." She reports on efforts to revive four communities— Stockton California, Lawrence Massachusetts, Josephine County Oregon, and Detroit. The focus is on local activists, community leaders, elected officials and others who have poured their heart and soul into fighting for the places where they live. In these places and others some of the most basic aspects of local government services have been dismantled. We learn about the devastating impact of the foreclosure crisis, opioid addiction and long economic decline as jobs and entire industries moved offshore or to other parts of the country. As always with our podcast, there is also a focus on solutions, as we discuss examples of civic pride and rebuilding. Book Review: " Building Back Better — One Community at a Time (New York Times). Our Recommendation: Richard is watching the FX drama series, " The Old Man ", starring Jeff Bridges, Jon Lithgow, Amy Brenneman and Alia Shawkat. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 15, 2022
The Science of Polarization. Peter Coleman
The January 6th hearings are a reminder of the impact of hatred for the other side and toxic polarization. We are rigidly divided by our politics, Facebook and other social media sites, and by news media . Nearly half of us have stopped talking with someone about political topics as a result of what they said in person or online. Our culture of contempt is dividing us all and making America ungovernable. How do we use science and proven methods to reduce toxic polarization and push back against conflict entrepreneurs? This episode presents a way forward. We repeat this episode with Peter Coleman , who is a leading expert on intractable conflict and sustainable peace. Peter is a professor of psychology and education at Columbia University and director of the Morton Deutsch International Center for Cooperation and Conflict Resolution. Peter's new book is " The Way Out . How to Overcome Toxic Polarization." We discuss research on how deeply divided societies can and do change. We learn more about the role you can play to navigate these times most effectively – as well as what to look for in groups and organizations in your community that are already at work making America more functional again. In this episode, Peter praised the work of the Bridging Divides Initiative , a group that tracks and mitigates political violence in the United States. The initiative supports efforts to grow and build local community resilience throughout elections and other periods of heightened risk, laying the groundwork for longer-term efforts towards reconciliation. Recommendation: Jim is listening to the podcast series, A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs , a history of rock from 1938 to 1999, hosted by Andrew Hickey. aWjyPCPZFrs0sg4bAoNd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 08, 2022
Inflation! Recession? Untangling the Economy. Megan McArdle
Inflation is through the roof. Stocks are through the floor. Most economists say that a recession is likely to hit soon or is already here. Add to this the economic impact of the Ukraine invasion, an entitlements crisis with the possible bankruptcy of Medicare and Social Security trust funds in the coming years, and today's weird housing market. In this episode, we discuss all these, plus the tough choices now facing the Federal Reserve, political dysfunction in Washington, disruption of global supply chains, and the roots of the inflation crisis. Our guest is Washington Post columnist Megan McArdle , the author of "The Up Side of Down: Why Failing Well is the Key to Success." "The biggest issue is getting the political will to act like grownups," Megan tells us. "We used to have one party that would try to keep taxes reasonable... and the other party would keep the spending down to match the taxes. Now we're in a situation where everyone gets in and wants to spend all of the money without any regard to discipline." Also, learn about what Richard's brother knew about Just-in-Time Production, and Jim's Dad understood about monetarism. Recommendation: Jim is reading " Two Wheels Good : The History and Mystery of the Bicycle", by critic and journalist Jody Rosen. She examines the bicycle’s past and peers into its future Help us spread the word about our podcast. Here's Our Patreon accoun t. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 01, 2022
Why America Needs Good Conflict: Amanda Ripley
In recent weeks the great American divide grew again. Explosive revelations from the House January 6th Hearings and Supreme Court decisions on abortion, guns and the EPA's ability to limit carbon emissions from power plants are further examples of where the middle has been weakened. On many media platforms nuance is replaced by taunts and jeers. Our nation is trapped in high conflict . Both sides are paralyzed by fear and anger as they demonize and misunderstand the actions and motivations of the other. The bitter national narrative of "us versus them" is a threat to democracy and stops Congress and other public institutions from working together to build a better world. Best-selling author and investigative journalist, Amanda Ripley , is our guest in this repeat episode. She is well-known for her writing in The Atlantic, Time, The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal, and many other publications. We discuss her groundbreaking book, “ High Conflict : Why We Get Trapped and How We Get Out." Amanda argues that good conflict can teach us to be better people, who are capable of solutions as they move past misunderstandings. Many are trapped in high conflict, which is threatening to tear us apart, creating an even deeper crisis than we have now. We discuss "conflict entrepreneurs"— cable TV personalities, talk radio hosts, and politicians from both left and right — who profit from making us angry and fearful. "Most Americans want out of this high conflict," Amanda tells How Do We Fix It? "They very much want to see a different way of disagreeing among their politicians and the news media. They are frequently tuning out of politics and the news, which is a big problem, but totally understandable." Recommendation: Jim enjoyed watching " Long Strange Trip ", a highly-praised documentary about the rock band, the Grateful Dead. TV viewers can watch it on Amazon Prime . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 24, 2022
Dementia: Memory and Forgetting: Nicci Gerrard
Dementia provokes profound moral questions about our society and the meaning of life itself. How much are we connected to one another? In what ways are we distant and separated? What does it mean to have a self? How can we offer dignity to those who suffer from Alzheimer's and other forms of this terrible disease? Worldwide around 55 million people have dementia. The US Centers for Disease Control estimates that the U.S. total is nearly six million cases. The numbers are growing with the aging of the population. The incidence of Alzheimer's increased more than 50% in the past 15 years. People over the age of 85 are the largest growing share of the population. British journalist and author Nicci Gerrard is our guest. Her father's long struggle with dementia led Nicci to investigate what the disease does to those who live with it and to their caregivers. She writes with deep wisdom, kindness, and empathy in her new book, " The Last Ocean A Journey Through Memory and Forgetting." In modern, developed nations, "we so value being young, healthy, vigorous, successful, purposeful, and autonomous," says Nicci. "In dementia all these things gradually unravel." Following her father's death in 2014, Nicci Gerrard cofounded John's Campaign , which seeks to make care more compassionate for those who are vulnerable and powerless. In this episode, we discuss her journey, what's she learned, and ways to improve dementia care, including the need for open an unrestricted visiting hours at hospitals-- still a controversial topic -- and dementia villages , a fairly new way to help people with memory loss improve quality of life. Here's a link to more information about Nicci's work and her book.<
Fri, June 17, 2022
January 6th: A New Reckoning. Bennie Thompson, Liz Cheney & Conversation
History was made on January 6th, 2021, yet nearly 18 months later we are still coming to terms with what happened before and during the attack on the U.S. Capitol. In this episode, Richard and Jim discuss what's been revealed by the House Select Committee that continues to investigate the disturbing events of that day. We include excerpts from statements by Committee Chair Bennie Thompson (D) and Vice-Chair Liz Cheney . Our discussion looks at the controversy over how the Committee was formed and how its findings will be viewed by voters, elected officials, legal analysts and historians. The first Select Committee hearing was aired during prime time on a Thursday night. While much of it was solemn and deliberative, there were moments of theater and passion. In their discussion, Jim and Richard share their different views of whether or not the work of the Committee has been as effective as it should have been. Recommendation: Jim has been re-reading the dystopian novel " Fahrenheit 451 " by Ray Bradbury. This episode also includes a promotion for another fine podcast— " The Purple Principle ". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 10, 2022
Death by Firearms— A Public Health Crisis. Dr. Patrick Carter
The appalling carnage in Uvalde, Texas, Buffalo, New York, Tulsa, Oklahoma, and other communities across the country is a deeply painful source of grief, outrage, and national shame. Since 2009 more than 2500 people have been killed or wounded in 277 mass shootings in The United States— more than the number of U.S. military personnel killed in hostile action in Afghanistan over the same period. But as horrible as they are, mass shootings represent a small percentage of overall firearms-related deaths. In 2020 — the latest year for which numbers are available — more than 45 thousand Americans were killed in shootings, including accidents and suicides. That’s more than the number of deaths on roads and highways. In this episode we look at some ways to reduce the huge toll . Our guest is Dr. Patrick Carter, a professor of emergency medicine and health behavior at the University of Michigan, and a leading expert on firearm injury prevention. He argues that instead of endless debate, we need to think of gun deaths "as a public health issue and a science issue." Then we can make real progress, he argues. Key soundbites : 05:13 We should think about the crisis of gun-related fatalities "not just as a single thing, but of a multi-faceted problem with lots of potential solutions: From engineering— how we construct guns and firearms safes— to how we change behavior around how people own and use guns, to how we address populations that are particularly high-risk and shouldn't own guns or shouldn't have access to guns when they are in crisis." 05:40 "I really think we can change the direction of firearm deaths and we have done that with cars... with drownings in this country. We've done that with all types of injury-related issues." 20:30 "I don't think you can solve this problem with the science-based approach I've talked about without engaging the people who own guns... We need to understand what things will change behaviors and to do that we need to engage with firearms owners around common-sense solutions." Recommendation : The weekly online newsletter
Fri, June 03, 2022
When Business Should Take a Stand. Elizabeth Doty
"There is one and only one social responsibility of business," Nobel Prize-winning economist Milton Friedman famously declared more than 50 years ago. It is “to use its resources and engage in activities designed to increase profits so long as it.. engages in open and free competition without deception or fraud.” Times have certainly changed, especially in the past two decades. Today, corporate leaders and brands know that they can't always follow Friedman's advice, and are expected to step forward and contribute to solving crises facing society. But there are often hazards in doing so. Walt Disney , Delta Airlines , and Larry Fink , Chairman, and CEO of BlackRock, have all faced harsh criticism for their public stands. We discuss the hazards and opportunities for corporations and their leadership with the author, researcher, and facilitator Elizabeth Doty , Director of the Erb Institute's Corporate Political Responsibility at the University of Michigan. She suggests constructive ways for businesses to play a key role in countering hyperpartisanship and other divisions in society. "Companies are on the receiving end of a lot of criticism," Elizabeth tells us. "We felt they needed a place to get foresight for companies to dig into what's behind these complaints." In our podcast, we hear ways businesses can benefit society and themselves with a constructive forward-facing, deliberative approach. When confronting divisive issues, corporations should consider how to "raise the quality of the argument rather than pick a side in the argument", says Elizabeth. In a statement on its website , the Taskforce says: "Unfortunately, many executives operate without an integrated view of their firms’ engagement with governing or electoral processes, or clear principles to ensure transparency, accountability and responsibility. As we have seen in 2020, in an environment of polarization and distrust, inattention to CPR can increase reputational risk, destabilize the civic and business environment, threaten the credibility of other efforts and undermine the positive systemi
Fri, May 27, 2022
The Power of Myth: Stephen Greenblatt
Myths are widely seen as little more than lies. We're constantly told by experts in media and society that myths are for debunking and even ridicule. Yet despite clear evidence frequently presented by doctors, journalists and scientists, many of us believe in legends and myths. In this episode of "How Do We Fix It?", we explore the power of myths and legends: Why they are essential in making sense of life. Bestselling author of " The Swerve ", " The Rise and Fall of Adam and Eve " and other books, Harvard Humanities professor Stephen Greenblatt , is our guest. Using the origin story of Adam and Eve and other accounts in The Bible, we discuss the enormous appeal of foundation stories to raise questions about human existence and explain our fears, desires and morality. At their best popular legends and myths can bring our communities together and improve cooperation and understanding. But at their worst they can promote hatred and lead us to believe in dangerous fantasies. "Some are good for us, while others are not. But it's often difficult to sort out which ones are in each category," says Professor Greenblatt. Note: this interview was first published in 2017. Recommendation: During and after his trip to Florence, Richard has been listening to lecture series about the Italian Renaissance. They include the Great Courses series by Professor Kenneth Bartlett . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 20, 2022
A New Definition of Winning: Cath Bishop
What does it mean to be a winner? Is it simply about “crushing it” or hitting your targets at work? Do you always have to come first? In this episode, we get a new definition of winning and success from former British Olympic rower, Cath Bishop , who competed in three Olympics and won a silver medal. Today Cath works in leadership development and has spent years thinking deeply about what it means to be successful in life. Her new book is “ The Long Win: The Search for a Better Way to Succeed ”. Cath spoke with audio journalist Ashley Milne-Tyte , host of the winning podcast, “ The Broad Experience ”, about women and the workplace. Here we share part of her episode with Cath. In the second half of this episode, Richard also has a conversation with Ashley about the insights she’s learned during the first decade of reporting for her podcast. We hear about racism and sexism in the workplace and how men can help women achieve true equality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 13, 2022
Billionaire Elon Musk: SpaceX and Twitter. Eric Berger.
Elon Musk is the richest person in the world and the most interesting business leader of his time. Disruptive and innovative, Musk has already revolutionized two giant industries— autos and aerospace. His planned purchase of Twitter will turn him into a power player in a third: social media. In this episode we look at what Elon Musk and his team achieved with SpaceX and share part of our 2121 interview with journalist Eric Berger , senior space editor at the science and tech news site, Ars Technica . Eric wrote the book " Liftoff : Elon Musk and the Desperate Early Days That Launched Space." We also hear from our co-host Jim about his Commentary Magazine article, "Can Elon Musk Save Twitter?" We learn more about the risks and obstacles involved in buying the digital public square that Musk plans to take private. With SpaceX, Musk pioneered the use of reusable rockets, drastically cut the cost of launches and made space exploration much more interesting to people around the globe. He turned Tesla into the world's most successful electric car company. He is also founder of the tunnel drilling firm Boring Company, and co-founder of the neuro-technology firm Neuralink and Open AI, an artificial intelligence research lab. "He's very demanding of pretty much everyone around him," says Eric Berger. "If you go to work for Elon Musk you better expect to work very hard and deliver, and with him you are going to get the chance to do great things." Recommendation : Both Jim and Richard explain why they are active Twitter users. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 06, 2022
Libertarians. A New Understanding. Nick Gillespie
All too often political movements are defined by their opponents. That is especially true for libertarians who are often labeled as uncaring— far more concerned with the individual than society. In this episode, we get a mostly positive view of what libertarians stand for and also why they oppose both the populist domination of the Republican Party and the leftward tilt by Democrats. Our guest Nick Gillespie is editor at large of Reason Magazine , which has the motto "free minds and free markets." He's co-author of the book, “The Declaration of Independents: How Libertarian Politics Can Fix What’s Wrong With America,” and host of “The Reason Interview” podcast. In this episode we discuss six main topics— What is a libertarian, public education and school choice, inflation, the role of billionaires in society, Ukraine & foreign policy, and the controversial Disinformation Governance Board . "I value individual choice. I devalue coercion," Nick tells us. "I believe in a smaller state than we have now... I want people to be able to make as many meaningful choices in their lives as possible." Recommendation: Jim has great enthusiasm for birding and science, and is reading " The Most Perfect Thing " about the science and natural history of bird eggs by Chenghui Ju, David C. Lahti Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 29, 2022
The Right: A New Understanding. Matthew Continetti
How did the Republican Party go from being dominated by Ronald Reagan in the 80s to the movement of Trump? What are the deep tensions between grassroots Republicans and Conservative elites who used to be in charge? Six months before the 2022 midterm election, why would liberals and progressives stand to benefit from understanding exactly why conservatives win so many races? We grapple with these questions and many more in this episode of "How Do We Fix It?" Our guest is conservative intellectual, scholar and journalist, Matthew Continetti — a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute in Washington. His new book is " The Right : The Hundred Year War on American Conservatism." "I resist this temptation to simply pathologize conservatism, because I don't think it explains why the American right has been so successful," Matthew tells us. Asked about critics who argue that Republicans are racist, sexist or homophobic, he says, "I think it's dangerous for the American left to ascribe everything to these 'isms'". Notes: Jonathan Rauch, our guest on episode 344 , wrote a favorable review Matthew's book in The New York Times. We discussed Gerard Baker's Wall Street Journal op-ed, " Republicans Remain Shackled to Donald Trump " in this week's show. Recommendation: Richard watched and enjoyed the new Netflix comedy, " Standing Up ". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 15, 2022
Successful Conversations Across Difficult Divides. Mónica Guzmán
Partisanship is up, trust is down and social media encourages us to believe we're right and everyone else is either ignorant, stupid or evil. But avoiding difficult conversations with those we disagree with is a big reason why our nation is so bitterly divided. Journalist Mónica Guzmán set out to discover what was blinding us and learned that the best tool we have we're not using: Our own curiosity. In this episode we learn about her personal story as the loving liberal daughter of Mexican immigrants who strongly support Donald Trump. We hear how Mónica discovered ways to overcome divisions that hurt our relationships and society. Mónica Guzmán is the author of the highly praised new book " I Never Thought Of It That Way ". She serves as an advisor and storyteller at the depolarization organization, Braver Angels . "The anger and the rage that we see out there that defines our division doesn't actually exist that much on the one-to-one level," Monica told us. In this episode, Monica discusses how we can put our natural sense of wonder to work, finding the answers needed to work with people, rather than score points against them. Bridging the gap involves asking questions that help you get across the difficult divides that are causing so much pain in our families and communities. We also learn about the work of Braver Angel s and hear why this month's America Talks is a good place to start when learning how to help depolarize America, one person at a time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 08, 2022
Fixing Government Now: Code For America. Amanda Renteria
Reform advocates are full of good intentions and worthy goals— from ending hunger to improving access to healthcare and limiting the impacts of climate change. But good intentions are not the same as good results. The efficient delivery of services is important for all citizens. In this episode, we look at how to design technology that makes the government smarter, much more efficient, and even friendlier. Amanda Renteria is CEO of Code for America , a non-profit group that uses coding and other forms of tech expertise to ensure the delivery of equitable digital tools and services. Amanda grew up in California's Central Valley, the daughter of Latino farm workers. She spent years in public service, as former National Political Director for Hillary Clinton, chief of staff for two Democratic Senators, and chief of operations for California’s Attorney General. "Nearly $60 billion in government services go unclaimed each year by people who are eligible," says Amanda. "We often talk about technology in terms of making things faster and easier but the first thing is to treat people with dignity... We try to create a welcoming front door. " In our discussion, we go under the hood to examine Code for America's work to improve government delivery of services to those who need it most— from food, income, and housing assistance to help with filling out taxes or getting something as simple as a new driver’s license. Recommendation: Both Richard and Jim enjoy games and puzzles, including Wordle and Guesstures . They're a lot of fun! Note: We are doing something special with our Patreon fundraising account , where we ask listeners for support. Until now we've been spending the money to expand our reach and gain more subscribers. But for the next 6 months, we're giving it to Ukraine relief efforts. The funds are going to charities such as Doctors Without Borders and the International Red Cross. Please help us help people who need our money most. Here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 01, 2022
How Your Mindset Transforms Your Life: David Robson
Our brains are prediction machines: How we frame everyday tasks and challenges of our lives can have a profound impact on their outcomes. In this episode, we learn about new discoveries in science that reveal the many ways our expectations shape our experience. Author and science writer David Robson is our guest. His latest book, " The Expectation Effect " cites findings from well-over 400 "robust experiments" and takes readers on a tour of cutting-edge research that uncovers new techniques to improve our fitness, productivity, intelligence, health, and happiness. We learn why people who believe aging brings wisdom live longer. Reappraising stress as something that's energizing increases your creativity under pressure. Cultivating an indulgent attitude to food may help you lose weight. Taking a placebo, even when you know it is a placebo, can still improve your health. "What the latest research has just done is to tell us that if the placebo effect is happening in a doctor's office or hospital maybe it's happening all the time in everyday life," David tells "How Do We Fix It?". "Our expectations are shaping our life every minute of every day." Unlike many best-selling self-help books, David's writing and reasoning are based on years of careful research. David was surprised by what he discovered. You cannot think your way into a pile of money or out of a cancer diagnosis. But just because magical thinking is nonsense doesn’t mean rational magic doesn’t exist. Pointing to accepted psychology and objective physiology, Robson gives us practical takeaways that may well improve our fitness, productivity, intelligence, and happiness. Recommendation : Jim is reading " Land : How the Hunger for Ownership Shaped the Modern World", by Simon Winchester. Note: We are doing something special with our Patreon fundraising account , where we ask listeners for support. Until now we've been spending the money to expand our reach and gain more subscribers. But for the next 6 months, we're giving it to Ukraine relief efforts. The funds are going to charities such as Doctors Without Borders and the International Red Cross. Please help us help people who need our money most. Here . <p style='color:grey; font-size:
Fri, March 25, 2022
What The War in Ukraine Means for Climate Change: Gernot Wagner
Russia's invasion of Ukraine made Europe's energy dependence painfully clear. "We are supporting and actually financing the war by purchasing oil and gas and other fossil fuels from Russia," Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin bluntly put it . Fossil fuel energy is vital for Russia's economy, accounting for almost half of its exports. One-third of Europe's oil and as much as 40% of natural gas imports come from Russia. In this episode, we discuss how the war in Ukraine is changing the debate over fossil fuel dependency. Our guest is climate economist and Bloomberg News columnist Gernot Wagner of NYU and Columbia School of Business. The invasion has already prompted a dramatic rethink by European policymakers. The EU has pledged to sharply reduce and ultimately phase out purchases of Russian oil and gas. In an abrupt about-face, Germany halted the Nordstream 2 gas pipeline project. The unprovoked attack on Ukraine "certainly provides the moral clarity that tells us to get off fossil fuels now," Gernot tells us. "This is a fossil fuel war." As they do in almost every episode, Richard and Jim put the spotlight on solutions. Among the topics covered here: - The prospects for carbon capture technology to remove significant amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere. - The case for a new carbon tax plus a proposed ban on natural gas in new apartment building construction. - Why building many more homes in big cities would reduce carbon emissions. - The role of nuclear power, solar, and wind in reducing the world's reliance on fossil fuels. Recommendation : Richard enjoyed watching the Danish six-part HBO series, " The Investigation ". We are doing something special with our Patreon account, where we ask listeners for support. The usual appeal is: give us a few dollars each month to help boost the audience for our solutions journalism podcast. Until now we've been spending all of the money to expand our reach and gain more subscribers. But for the next 6 months we're sending all the money to Ukraine relief efforts. The money will go to charities like Doctors Without Borders and the International Red Cross. Help us help people who need our money most. Sign up here. <a href="
Fri, March 18, 2022
Defending Truth. Advancing Knowledge: Jonathan Rauch
Democracies around the world are under threat from populist movements, demagogues, and dogmatic extremists who use disinformation, conspiracy theories, cancel culture, and shaming to weaponize social media and challenge our ability to distinguish truth from falsehood. Most recently, the Russian government has used lies and fake news to justify its attempted land grab in Ukraine. In " The Constitution of Knowledge : A Defense of Truth", best-selling author, journalist, and public intellectual, Jonathan Rauch , offers a stirring defense of the social system of checks and balances that is crucial for turning disagreement into verifiable facts. "This global network of people hunting for each others' errors is far and away the greatest human technology ever invented," Jonathan tells us. The constitution of knowledge "is a global conversation of people looking for truth, and more especially, looking for error." In this episode of "How Do We Fix It?", Jonathan arms listeners and advocates of truth with a clear understanding of what they must protect, and how to do it. He makes a clear and moving argument for how all of us can help defend truth and free inquiry from threats that come from as far away as Russia and as close as our cellphones. Here's one of our recommended reviews of "The Constitution of Knowledge". Movie recommendation: Richard enjoyed " The Leopard ", a 1963 Italian period drama by director Luchino Visconti, starring Burt Lancaster, Claudia Cardinale, and Alain Delon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 11, 2022
Ukraine. The World Responds to War. Robert Kagan, Jane Lytvynenko
Shock, surprises, and suffering are the most immediate results of all wars. Russia's brutal, yet deeply flawed invasion of Ukraine has profound implications for the West, global democracy, and the future of Europe and Russia. We hear the perspectives of two prominent thinkers, Jane Lytvynenko and Robert Kagen. Richard and Jim also share their analysis of the unexpected early outcomes of the war. This episode has extracts from an interview with Robert Kagan , a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a contributing columnist for The Washington Post. He spoke with podcast producer and host Jenna Spinelle of "Democracy Works". We also share part of an interview from the current episode of " Democracy in Danger " with journalist Jane Lytvynenko , who covers technology, disinformation, and now, Ukraine. She was born in Kyiv. Jane is also a senior research fellow at Harvard University's Technology and Social Change Project at the Shorenstein Center . This podcast is produced with the generous help of the Democracy Group podcast network and the McCourtney Institute for Democracy at Penn State University. "I actually believe in the long run we will come out of this," says Robert Kagen. "Unfortunately, the long run may be longer than we want and we may be in this for 20 years." "Had the West stood up against the torture of protesters in Belarus, Russia would not have been able to put tanks there today," says Jane Lytvynenko. She argues for a more robust response by the West to attacks against democracy in other nations. Recommendation: Jim is reading “ Mercury Rising . John Glenn, John Kennedy and the New Battleground of the Cold War" by Jeff Shesol. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 04, 2022
Understanding Ukraine. Unity, Defiance, Resistance: Marci Shore
The war in Ukraine and the global response to Russia's invasion are dominating the news. But missing in much of the coverage is a sense of the country and its people. In this historic moment, we hear a riveting account of the country's recent political awakening and why Ukrainians are prepared to resist and fight. In the past century, Ukraine suffered massively during two world wars, Nazi occupation , famine , and the Chernobyl disaster . Eight years ago, during the " Revolution of Dignity ", Ukranians stood up against corruption, brutality, and Russian dominance. A new democracy and civic bond were formed. The country profoundly changed. "Ukranians are fighting for all of us," says our guest, Yale University historian Marci Shore , the author of “ The Ukrainian Night: An Intimate History of Revolution .” She is a scholar of Eastern Europe in the post-Soviet era. "I'm terrified for my friends," Marci tells us. "The Ukrainians will not give up... I'm desperately hopeful that as difficult as the odds are, they are going to prevail." Recommendations for further reading about the war and today's Ukraine: Yarolav Trofimo, the Wall Street Journal’s Chief foreign correspondent, now in Kiev. Phil Stewart of Reuters and his newsfeed on Twitter, coverage from CNN's Clarissa Ward, Anderson Cooper, and Alex Marquardt in Ukraine. Background and perspective in The Economist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 25, 2022
Why We Need Representative Democracy. Lisa Disch
The invasion of Ukraine is a shocking reminder of what's at stake for democracies around the world. This moment is a stunning reminder of the vital importance of what we so often take for granted— personal freedoms and the rule of law. Despite well-advertised flaws, our constitutional system of governance is infinitely preferable to dictatorships or thuggish autocracies. In this episode, we share a conversation that touches on the relationship between voters and those who represent them, and what is meant by "representative democracy". The interview is shared with us by our friends at the " Democracy Paradox " podcast. Lisa Disch , author of the book, “ Making Constituencies: Representation as Mobilization in Mass Democracy” is this week’s guest. She is a professor of political science at the University of Michigan and an elected member of the Ann Arbor City Council. She is a committed member of the Democratic Party, but her views and research should be of interest to listeners from across the political spectrum. Lisa makes a spirited defense of multi-party representative democracy as an engine for change and progress. Justin Kempf asks the questions in this interview. His podcast, “Democracy Paradox” and ours are members of the Democracy Group network , where you can hear challenging, fascinating, and sometimes difficult ideas about democracy and governance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 18, 2022
Gerrymandering: Why It's So Bad For Democracy. Sam Wang
Partisan gerrymandering — where one party gains an unfair advantage by redrawing political maps to favor its candidates— is unpopular with voters , but widespread in many states. We examine why this process devalues democracy, and how data science is being used across the country to expose many of the most egregious examples, and help voters advocate for fair and transparent redistricting. Every decade, legislators across the country come up with maps for state and congressional districts. The latest round of changes, due to be finished well before primaries are held before the 2022 midterm elections in November, is facing widespread criticism . Redistricting reformers also see strong ties between partisan and racial bias. Our guest in this episode shows citizens how they can fight back against local examples of gerrymandering by both Democrats and Republicans. Professor Sam Wang oversees the Princeton Gerrymandering Project , which runs an informative website that helps voters in every state decide if they live in an unfairly drawn legislative or Congressional District. "A sense of fairness is a fundamental principle of our democracy," Professor Wang tells us. But "these fundamental principles are hard to keep sight of when a lot of the ways we talk about democracy have started to break down a bit." Additional listener resources on political reform: Dave's Redistricting App , and RepresentUs . Daily news coverage of democracy reform at The Fulcrum . Richard's recommendation this week: Don Quixote , by Miguel de Cervantes. The book, first published in 1605, is often called the first modern novel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 11, 2022
Regrets Are Good For Us! Daniel Pink
Best-selling author Daniel Pink admits he's pedaling against the wind. His new book, " The Power of Regret " takes on the longstanding and deeply ingrained doctrine that paying attention to our regrets is foolish. In this episode, we ask him why this notion is wrong. "No regrets" is the name or theme of countless books and popular songs. Bob Dylan, Angelina Jolie, and Ruth Bader Ginsberg all advised us to live without regrets. "We think that it's courageous to say I have no regrets, but it's not," Pink tells us. "What's courageous is staring your regrets in the eye, confronting them, and doing something about them". Almost everybody has regrets. And if we acknowledge them in fresh and imaginative ways, we can enlist our regrets to make smarter decisions, perform better at work and school, and deepen our sense of meaning and purpose. In our solutions podcast, we hear that examining what we regret the most helps us understand what we value the most. Pink draws on research in psychology, neuroscience, economics, and biology to challenge widely-held assumptions about emotions and behavior. He also questioned people about their regrets and conducted his own World Regret Survey , which has collected regrets from more than 16,000 people in 105 countries. Recommendation : Jim often listens to the podcast, " Blocked and Reported ", hosted by journalists Katie Herzog and Jesse Singal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 04, 2022
The Other Pandemic: Loneliness. Noreena Hertz
Two years of coronavirus have made the growing loneliness crisis even worse— with greater social isolation causing personal pain and mental and physical illnesses. "Even before the global pandemic introduced us to terms like social distancing, loneliness was becoming the defining condition of the twenty-first century. But it's also one we have the power to reverse," says our podcast guest, economist Noreena Hertz . Numerous surveys have found that reported cases of loneliness have jumped in recent decades. More than three-in-five Americans told a 2020 poll , conducted before the pandemic, that they felt left out, poorly understood, and lacking in companionship. Noreena Hertz is the author of " The Lonely Century : How to Restore Human Connection in a World Pulling Apart." Her book is a personal and deeply-researched investigation into the roots of the loneliness epidemic and what we can do to come together. In our interview, we discuss the importance of the workplace in enhancing community, the need to reinvigorate our neighborhoods, and how governments and private enterprises can react to the increase in loneliness and alienation. We also learn more about the link between loneliness and the rise of right-wing populism. In many different ways, the social fabric of our community is being pulled apart, causing an increase in polarization and a loss of confidence in democracy and civil institutions. Technology, including social media, migration, a radical reorganization of many workplaces, and the transactional nature of commerce have also led to a broader sense of isolation. We discuss solutions in this episode. Recommendation : Richard and Jim use Wikipedia , which is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Wiki co-founder, Jimmy Wales , is the guest on a recent episode of " the Economist Asks " podcast, hosted by Anne McElvoy . Note: This episode was first published in January 2021. <p style='color
Fri, January 28, 2022
Reducing Polarization All By Yourself: Kamy Akhavan
Across the board— from voter access to questions of race and gender , and views of the economy— the gap between Republicans and Democrats has grown wider in recent years. According to recent polling, a rising share of Americans say that having political conversations with those they disagree with is “ stressful and frustrating ”. Political polarization and the recent actions of party leaders have prevented compromise and resolution of critical problems. We discuss five personal ways to reduce polarization with our guest, Kamy Akhavan , Director of the Center for the Political Future at the University of Southern California, and former CEO of the well-known non-partisan site procon.org "In today's political climate we don't respect the other side: We don't care what they have to say," says Kamy. "Our immediate reaction goes to defense. It is 'stop that side'". 5 personal tips to depolarize: 1. Listen to understand not to judge. 2. Commit to speak with and learn from others you disagree with. 3. Seek Opposing Views. Is your sense of what the other side is saying a mere characterization of what they say? 4. Interpret Generously. Don't assume that those with different ideological and cultural views are bad people. 5. Superordinate. Instead of pursuing common ground, recognize our underlying shared values. Seek out what you have in common with your workers, colleagues, and—yes— political opponents. In this episode, Kamy also shares his personal experience as an immigrant and a bridge builder. Recommendation: Jim is reading the science fiction novel, " Far From the Light of Heaven ", by Tade Thompson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, January 21, 2022
Liberal Education is Under Assault. Roosevelt Montás
What is the point of an education? Is it to learn skills that will help you get ahead in the workplace, or is it to acquire knowledge and to think more deeply about your place in the world? In this episode we hear from an educator who thinks that the great books— Plato, Aquinas, Shakespeare for example— aren’t just for a few well-off students at elite colleges, but for everybody. And he says encountering these thinkers when he was a poor immigrant teenager from the Dominican Republic literally changed his life. Roosevelt Montás is senior lecturer in American Studies and English at Columbia University. He is director of the Center for American Studies Freedom and Citizenship Program, which introduces low-income high school students to primary texts in moral and political thought, as well as seminars in American Studies including “Freedom and Citizenship in the United States.” From 2008 to 2018, he was director of Columbia’s Center for the Core Curriculum . "There is a prevailing cultural attitude that liberal education— the study of literature and philosophy — is appropriate only to the elite," Roosevelt tells us. "That is a really pernicious idea." He argues that the students who benefit the most from the foundational wisdom in the "great books" come from poor and marginalized backgrounds. But liberal education is under assault today in academia. We find out why. Recommendation : Richard is watching the Anglo-Japanese Netflix TV series, " Giri / Haji ", — duty/shame in Japanese— a thriller about a Tokyo detective scouring the London underworld to find his allegedly deceased brother. The series was filmed in Tokyo and London. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, January 14, 2022
I Changed My Mind About Nuclear Power: Zion Lights
Earth's global average temperature in 2021 was the sixth warmest on record, according to two new reports issued this week by U.S. Government agencies. Scientists at NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies report that collectively the past eight years were the warmest since modern record keeping began in 1880. The research adds to overwhelming evidence of climate change. This episode looks at the role played by carbon-free nuclear power in providing one solution to the growing climate crisis. Our guest, British environmental activist and science communicator, Zion Lights , tells us whyt she changed her mind about nuclear safety and reliability. After playing a leading role with Extinction Rebellion UK, Zion left the group and founded Emergency Reactor , which calls on fellow activists to "stop spreading misinformation and fear. Follow the science about nuclear energy." "People are already worried and scared about climate change. Let's look at solutions," she tells us. This show is the latest in a series of "How Do We Fix It?" episodes about the need to come up with pragmatic, workable solutions that limit the damage to our warming planet. Recommendation : Richard has spent part of the past year reading literary classics, including the three books of Dante's "Divine Comedy", Virgil's "The Aeneid", and The Iliad and Odyssey by Homer. "My recommendation is to challenge yourself. This may lead you to change your mind about something that's important to how you see the world," says Richard. Note : Zion Lights is an amateur astronomer. Her Tedx talk, " Don't Forget to Look Up " is full of curiosity and wonder about stargazing and the universe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, January 03, 2022
National Day of Dialogue. Christy Vines
Our first episode of 2022 is all about a constructive response to the calamitous events of one year ago: The January 6th riot at the U.S. Capitol. On January 5th, a coalition of organizations, led by Ideos Institute , will host the first annual National Day of Dialogue . We discuss this invitation to all Americans to push back against deep divides. We also explore the need for hard talk and getting into our discomfort zones. “As a nation, we have largely lost our ability to have hard conversations without judgment, animus, or fear,” says our guest, Ideos President & CEO, Christy Vines . "Deep down we all want to have these kinds of moments with somebody we would disagree with and who we often see as the enemy... Not enough people are getting those opportunities to see the human behind the positions they hold." The National Day of Dialogue is a series of virtual and live events across the country, and the premiere of a documentary movie " Dialogue Lab: America ", which includes a series of deep, and sometimes very emotional conversations among individuals from different political and religious beliefs. The event is part of a broader bridging movement that we’re part of on "How Do We Fix It?", as we respond to the deep divides that hold us back and threaten our democracy. Recommendation: " Beginner's Mind ", 90-minutes of music and audio narration by acclaimed cellist Yo Yo Ma. He speaks of his career and personal story as an immigrant, and invites us “to strip away preconceptions and reclaim a beginner's mind...one open to new questions, explorations, and unexpected answers.” Available free on Audible. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, December 23, 2021
Big News. The Stories You Missed in 2021: Jim & Richard
The Forever Pandemic, Omicron, Build Back Better, Biden, Putin, China, What's Trump got up his sleeve? The media gave these stories ad nauseum coverage in 2021, often marching in lockstep and suffering from a painful lack of imagination about what should be the big news of the day. But what about underreported stories: The important news that most of us missed? Richard and Jim share their gripes, observations, hopes and insights about the media, science, the environment and global affairs. Our co-hosts are not only solutions journalists with decades of reporting experience, they're also voracious readers and observers of current events. In this episode, we learn how COVID has super-charged the development of promising new mRNA vaccines against malaria, lyme disease and other challenging illnesses, the hidden social upsides of remote working on family life, the broad benefits of the private space flight boom, and the hard truths of global energy production. We also examine why curiosity, intellectual humility and overcoming our negativity bias are all needed to gain a better understanding of the world. We explore why people have such a hard time accepting progress that is being made in many fields."A lot of times I think it is because the media is afraid that if they mention good news then people will stop the fight for further change," says Jim. "But if you can emphasize the good sometimes that shows these problems can be solved." Jim and Richard's recommended news sources: Apart from reading The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and other mainstream newspapers, Richard recommends The Economist , GZero Newsletter on global affairs, and the Migration Policy Institute . Jim urges listeners to check out City Journal and eco-modernist reports from The Breakthrough Institute . His other sources include a range of journalists on Substack and Twitter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, December 17, 2021
Changing the Way We Vote: Rob Richie
Gerrymandering, low turnout elections, negative campaign ads, and increased polarization are all part of the flawed, fractured U.S. political system. Here we examine the case for constructive changes to how candidates for public office are elected. Our guest, Rob Richie , has been the leader of the non-profit advocacy group, FairVote, since co-founding the organization in 1992. He has been involved in helping to develop and implement: Ranked Choice Voting in several states and more than 20 cities, fair representation voting systems in numerous states, Voting Rights Act cases, the National Popular Vote plan in 16 states, and voter access proposals like voter preregistration and automatic voter registration. "We're in a winner-take-all environment and it's incredibly tense," Rob tells us. The current voting system allows for only one choice, which can add to bitterness and deep division. "Ranked Choice Voting gives the voter a chance not only to just put an X next to one candidate but to make a series of choices." This fundamental reform is attracting growing support among Democrats, Republicans, and independents. In 2021 it was used for the first time to pick the Mayor of New York and the Republican nominee for Governor of Virginia, Glenn Youngkin . Numerous cities and more states are considering Ranked Choice Voting. The vast majority of Americans live in landslide districts. Rob is also calling for multi-member congressional districts. Both reforms, he writes , would lead to "a more representative and functional congress" that would "regain legitimacy" with voters. Recommendation. Jim is listening to journalist Andrew Sullivan's podcast, " Dishcast ". Jim calls Sullivan "a consistently interesting, provocative thinker", who has great free-ranging conversatio
Fri, December 10, 2021
Better Policing — Not Posturing: Nekima Levy Armstrong
The huge difference between slogans and solutions is a key theme of this episode. While demands to “de-fund the police” or replace entire police departments with something new might sound good in theory, these ambitious experiments in public safety may backfire. Our guest is Minneapolis civil rights lawyer and activist Nekima Levy Armstrong . Her recent New York Times op-ed — “Black Voters Want Better Policing, Not Posturing by Progressives”— was written after the defeat of a November ballot initiative that would abolish the Minneapolis Police Department and replace it with a department of public safety. She expressed frustration over the lack of a detailed, well-researched plan. While white progressives mostly voiced support for the proposal, majority-black neighborhoods rejected it. We find out why. In the months after the murder of George Floyd , there was a massive outcry over police violence against African-Americans. The protest movement was multi-racial. In many towns and cities, Whites marched alongside Blacks and other citizens of color, demanding change. But what sort of change? There’s a racial divide in how different communities view the police. But as we hear in this episode, it’s complicated. Recommendation: Richard enjoyed the new movie, “ King Richard ” — about the extraordinary story of Richard Williams and his daughters, tennis stars Venus and Serena Williams. Based on the true story the film follows the uplifting journey of a family that created a sports dynasty. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, December 03, 2021
Stopping the Next Pandemic. Alina Chan (Part Two)
A crucial step in preventing the next global pandemic will be knowing where this one came from. Did SARS-CoV-2— the virus that causes Covid-19— jump from animals to humans, or was the outbreak the result of a lab leak? The world still doesn’t know the answer. This episode is part two of our wide-ranging interview with Alina Chan , a postdoctoral scientist who co-wrote an explosive online paper in May 2020. She argued that scientists and governments should investigate whether a virus from a laboratory in Wuhan, China caused the pandemic. “It's not about holding one country accountable, because we are all accountable for this,” Alina tells us. “We're all in this together.” In this episode, we discuss the need for much greater transparency when viral outbreaks occur. The world needs to adopt new policies and strategies to prevent or mitigate future outbreaks. Proposed solutions include: more regulation of scientific experiments— including “gain of function” research, better lab safety standards, greater international oversight of groups that study how viruses cross species barriers, and a global treaty governing viral research. Alina Chan co-wrote “ Viral ” with British science writer Matt Ridley. “Unfortunately, there are no enforceable international biosafety and biosecurity standards,” they write. Their newly-published book has prompted further controversy and pushback from some well-known scientists. We think a full airing of the questions raised by Dr. Chan’s research is central to our mission at “How Do We Fix It?” Recommendation: Jim is reading " In the Heart of The Sea : The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex”, by history writer Nathaniel Philbrick. The book won the 2000 National Book Award for Nonfiction . The Essex sank after a sperm whale attacked it in the Pacific Ocean in 1820. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, November 24, 2021
Did COVID-19 Come From a Lab? Alina Chan (Part One)
Two years after the known human case of COVID-19, the mystery of the origin of SARS-CoV-2 remains unresolved. Did the virus emerge from an animal in nature, or could it have accidentally leaked from a research lab in Wuhan, China? Shockingly, the world appears to be no closer to knowing the crucial answer. In this first of two episodes, we get a brief explanation of the growing controversy from our co-host, Jim Meigs, who has written about allegations of a scientific cover-up. Molecular biologist Alina Chan , a postdoctoral fellow in a gene therapy lab at the Broad Institute , is our interview guest. Dr. Chan first became widely known last year for suggesting that COVID-19 could have escaped from a laboratory. Her early research was called a "conspiracy theory" by leading scientists and mainstream media journalists. But in recent months, expert views of this mystery have decisively changed . Alina Chan and British science writer Matt Ridley — a past guest on How Do We Fix It? — are the co-authors of the new book, " Viral : The Search for the Origin of COVID-19." Our next episode will include part two of our interview with Alina Chan. We believe that finding the answer to how this virus first spread will be a vital part of preventing the next pandemic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, November 19, 2021
Understanding Autism: "We're Not Broken." Eric Garcia
"This book is a message from autistic people to their parents, friends, teachers, coworkers and doctors showing what life is like on the spectrum," writes our guest, author Eric Garcia in We're Not Broken . "It’s also my love letter to autistic people. For too long, we have been forced to navigate a world where all the road signs are written in another language.” Garcia, who is autistic, is a senior Washington correspondent for The Independent . He has worked as a writer and reporter covering politics at The Washington Post, The Hill, and the National Journal. "My main point is autistic people are fine as they are," Eric tells us in this episode. “The idea that they are fundamentally flawed and failed human beings is simply not true... Instead of trying to cure autistic people, society should help them live fulfilling lives.” For many decades, people with autism have been stigmatized and subjected to harmful myths and wild conspiracy theories— all of them hurtful. We examine how they have been mistreated and ignored, and look at how to fix our misconceptions. Eric's new book has been greeted with positive reviews . The Washington Post calls it " outstanding ", and a "call to include autistic people in the conversations that concern them." Recommendations : Jim praises " Crip Camp : A Disability Revolution" on Netflix — a documentary about a groundbreaking summer camp that galvanizes a group of teens with disabilities to help build a movement, forging a new path toward greater equality. Richard is listening to " Aut-Hour ", a podcast hosted by Sara Gibbs that interviews autistic authors about their life and work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, November 12, 2021
Social Media: Menace or Blessing? Robby Soave
Not long ago, most of us embraced social media as a life-changing opportunity to connect with friends and family all across the world. Today, public opinion, including members of Congress from both parties, has turned far more negative. Facebook, Twitter, Google, YouTube, and other tech giants are accused of corrupting our democracy, spreading disinformation, and fanning the flames of hatred. Our guest is Robby Soave , a libertarian author and journalist who is a senior editor for Reason and the author of two books: "Panic Attack: Young Radicals in the Age of Trump" and his latest, " Tech Panic: Why We Shouldn't Fear Facebook and the Future. " Robby is highly skeptical of most efforts to reform or break up technology firms. In a lively conversation we explore some of the biggest issues animating both right and left: bias, censorship, disinformation, privacy, screen addiction, crime, and more. "There are certain legitimate problems with big tech and social media," Robby tells us. "The negatives have been very well-covered and over-hyped by everyone from the mainstream media to the right-wing media... The considerable positives of social media are almost entirely overlooked." In this episode we also hear about the respectful, impassioned debate between Robby and social psychologist Jonathan Haidt , co-author of " The Coddling of the American Mind ", who produced evidence linking the spike in adolescent mental illness and anxiety to the rise of Facebook and Instagram. Recommendation : Richard is watching the TV series, " Engineering That Built the World " on the History Channel. This fascinating documentary features expert insights by our co-host, Jim Meigs , on the building of the Panama Canal, the formation of the Interstate Highway system and the struggle to construct the Transcontinental Railroad. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, November 05, 2021
Climate: Changing the Conversation. Katharine Hayhoe
As world leaders discuss the planet's future at COP26 in Glasgow, climate change remains a massive challenge and a source of fierce debate. While two-thirds of Americans think that the government should be doing more, it's tempting to throw our hands up in despair and think: "There's nothing I can do." Climate scientist Katharine Hayhoe begs to differ. She says the most important thing is to talk about it—and she wants to teach us how. In this episode, we discuss her hopeful, passionate case for enacting positive change from the ground up, and the finding of her new book, "Saving Us: A Climate Scientist's Case for Hope and Healing in a Divided World." Katharine shares the science of climate change, how to talk about it across the political divide, and personal stories about engaging highly skeptical audiences, such as when she spoke to a crowd of conservative business leaders in West Texas at a meeting of Rotarians. The outcome was remarkable! "If we want to change the system, the most important thing any of us can do is to use our voice to influence others to talk about why it matters, and what we can do together to fix it," Katharine tells us. "Wherever we are, we have a shadow not just a footprint, and our shadow can influence people to do things themselves too." Katharine Hayhoe is the Chief Scientist for The Nature Conservancy and a professor of political science and public law at Texas Tech University. She is also a well-known science communicator , principal investigator for the Department of Interior’s South-Central Climate Adaptation Science Center and the National Science Foundation’s Global Infrastructure Climate Network. Her research currently focuses on establishing a scientific basis for assessing the regional to local-scale impacts of climate change on human systems and the natural environment. Recommendation : Jim listens frequently to " The National Review " podcast. The latest episode, " An Astonishing Night in Va. " is a conservative take on the 20
Fri, October 29, 2021
Together Again. Cultivating Collaboration: Deb Mashek
Many millions of Americans are heading back to work — in person — for the first time since the pandemic hit. During this time of remote meetings and working from home, many of us learned new skills, and perhaps, forgot our old ways to work and successfully collaborate with colleagues. This episode is a timely and very personal reminder of how to make meetings better and develop stronger, more productive relationships with those we work and live with. We learn about the crucial differences between exchange and communal forms of collaboration. Our guest, former psychology professor, and national non-profit head, Deb Mashek , spent two decades studying how people form relationships with each other, as well as the challenges & rewards of doing so. Deb founded MyCo Consulting , where she puts her research into practice, helping academic leaders cultivate collaboration among diverse stakeholders to accomplish ambitious goals. The skills needed to collaborate well are vital for us to learn in our professional lives. "93% of employers surveyed rated this ability to work in teams as critically important, Deb tells us. "But few of us ever receive training on how to do this well." Interested in learning more about the ideas discussed in this episode of How Do We Fix It? Deb has generously put together this short handout that summarizes the suggestions with links to other resources. Recommendation : This one is an activity. Richard found great inspiration during a recent visit to the Museum of Modern Art in New York . He suggests that we visit museums and galleries as we fully re-engage with the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 15, 2021
The Furore Over Critical Race Theory: "Banished" Podcast
From local school board elections to state legislatures, an impassioned nationwide debate has erupted over allegations that Critical Race Theory (CRT) is being taught in public schools. Anti-CRT bills have been passed in more than two dozen Republican-led states. What do we mean by Critical Race Theory? What are these laws aiming to accomplish? How will they affect schools in the US? We share a lively discussion from "Banished", a new podcast series, hosted by Amna Khalid, a history professor at Carleton College. In this episode we listen to interviews with Harvard Law Professor Randall Kennedy, Acadia University Professor Jeffrey Sachs, and former ACLU President, Nadine Strossen of New York Law School. All three support free speech and disagree with banning the teaching or discussion of controversial, even dangerous ideas and theories. This is a special episode of How Do We Fix It? We're taking a break during mid-October and continue a recent tradition of sharing stimulating, thoughtful interviews from other podcasts. "Banished" is produced by Booksmart Studios. The series is about our reassessment of the many people, ideas, objects and even works of art that conflict with modern sensibilities. What can we learn about our present obsession with cancel culture by examining history, and what might it mean for freedom of expression? And how do we reconcile opposing points of view without turning on each other? Learn more about this recommended podcast at https://www.booksmartstudios.org . Thanks for Booksmart Studios for giving us permission to share this podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 08, 2021
The Way Out. Overcoming Polarization. Peter Coleman
Never before in living memory has America been as politically polarized as it is today. We are divided by our politics, Facebook and other social media sites, and by news media . Nearly half of us have stopped talking with someone about political topics as a result of what they said in person or online. Our culture of contempt is dividing us all and making America ungovernable. How do we use science and proven methods to reduce toxic polarization and push back against conflict entrepreneurs? This episode presents a way forward. Peter Coleman is a leading expert on intractable conflict and sustainable peace. He's a professor of psychology and education at Columbia University, and director of the Morton Deutsch International Center for Cooperation and Conflict Resolution. Peter's new book is " The Way Out . How to Overcome Toxic Polarization." We discuss research on how deeply divided societies can and do change. We learn more about the role you can play to navigate these times most effectively – as well as what to look for in groups and organizations in your community that are already at work making America more functional again. In this episode, Peter praised the work of the Bridging Divides Initiative , a group that tracks and mitigates political violence in the United States. The initiative supports efforts to grow and build local community resilience throughout elections and other periods of heightened risk, laying the groundwork for longer-term efforts towards reconciliation. Recommendation : Jim is listening to the podcast series, A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs , a history of rock from 1938 to 1999, hosted by Andrew Hickey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 01, 2021
Scary Smart. The Future of Artificial Intelligence. Mo Gawdat
Imagine a future where smart machines are more intelligent than humans. That future may be coming much faster than we think. The stark implications are considered in this podcast. The former Chief Business Officer at Google X, Egyptian entrepreneur Mo Gawdat has long been at the heart of the artificial intelligence revolution, deeply involved in engineering, robotics, and AI. Mo is also a podcaster with a focus on how we can promote happiness . In his latest book, " Scary Smart" , he argues that AI reflects our values and that unless humans change their online behavior, the consequences could be terrifying. "The true pandemic of our times is not COVID-19, Mo tells us. "AI is the real pandemic. It's at its infancy and will grow in intelligence until a point where it is undisputed that they will be the leaders." In less than ten years, he predicts, we will experience "the singularity", when artificial intelligence will be many times smarter than humans. But not all is doom and gloom. "The very essence of what makes us human — happiness, compassion, and love — is what will save humanity in the age of the machines," he writes. We discuss the practical, ethical, and spiritual implications of what's coming our way. Recommendation : Richard has just read Robert Fagles' translation of " The Iliad ", by Homer — an epic Greek poem and often called the first great work of western literature. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, September 24, 2021
Taming Big Tech. How We Can Reboot. Jeremy Weinstein and Mehran Sahami
This episode addresses a great problem of our age: How do we curb the enormous power of giant technology companies and limit the disruption caused by them and their products? 20 years ago, we lived in an era of digital utopianism when most people thought that the internet would give us new freedom to find information. But we didn't anticipate many of the most disturbing technological changes. Today, a handful of firms control most internet communication. Social media platforms amplify division more than they spread knowledge. Our guests are two Stanford University professors, Mehran Sahami and Jeremy Weinstein . Along with philosophy professor Bob Reich, they wrote the new book, " System Error : Where Big Tech Went Wrong and How We Can Reboot." Mehran Sahami teaches engineering and education at Stanford and is also a former senior research scientist at Google. Jeremy Weinstein teaches political science at Stanford. He previously worked in the Obama Administration. Both teach a popular undergraduate course on the intersection of ethics and technology. Recommendation: Jim has read and enjoyed the science fiction novel, " The Three Body Problem ", by Chinese writer, Liu Cixin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, September 17, 2021
Wildlife! When Nature Hits Back: Mary Roach
The line between our “civilized” lives and wild, unpredictable nature seems to have gotten a little thinner lately. Nature is great, but it can also be dangerous if we don’t show proper respect. This show is about awkward encounters with bears, mountain lines, gulls and other wild creatures. We also discuss "killer trees" with best-selling science writer, Mary Roach , author of the new book, " Fuzz : When Nature Breaks the Law". Mary is widely known for her funny, smart and sometimes gross writing and reporting in a series of books with one-word titles. Previously , we spoke with her about "Grunt", which looks at the surprising science of war. She also wrote "Stiff" about — you guessed it — dead people, "Gulp" on the digestive tract, and "Bonk" where we learn all about sex. Mary Roach has been called America's funniest science writer by the Washington Post. In the words of a reviewer in The Guardian , she "has specialized in tackling the uncomfortable, and at the heart of every book is her desire to explore the places from which we recoil." Recommendation : Richard has just watched Season 2 of the very funny TV series, " Never Have I Ever " on Netflix. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, September 10, 2021
9/11 Attacks: Myths, Memories, Conspiracy Theories
"I now believe the 9/11 Truthers I encountered were canaries in the coal mines of American society," writes our co-host, Jim Meigs, in the current issue of City Journal . In this episode we hear about conspiracy theories, those who believe in them, and the corrosive impact of paranoia on American political life. Richard interviews Jim about his work at Popular Mechanics in the years after the 9/11 attacks. A team of reporters, editors, and fact-checkers at the magazine interviewed more than 300 experts and sources in civil engineering, air traffic control, aviation, fire fighting, and metallurgy. Their findings were published in the 2006 book, " Debunking 9/11 Myths . Why Conspiracy Theories Can't Stand Up to the Facts." Jim also asks Richard about his reporting from the streets of Manhattan in the hours and days after the attacks that brought down the North and South Towers of The World Trade Center twenty years ago. "I fell in love with the city during that September. In the words of a friend. 9/11 was a terrible day, but the weeks that followed were a remarkable time," says Richard. Most of our weekly podcast episodes put the spotlight on the guest. This show lifts the curtain on Jim and Richard's careers as journalists. Jim spent many years as a magazine writer and editor. Before becoming a podcast consultant, Richard was a radio reporter, news anchor, and show host in the U.S. and U.K. for more than three decades. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, September 03, 2021
Hey, Journalists. Does the Public Trust You? Joy Mayer
Only four in 10 Americans say they have a lot of trust in the news media. That's a big problem for our democracy. While journalists are supposed to tell the truth and get the story right, just 35 percent of right-of-center voters have some trust in what they see in the news. Democrats and independents are much more likely to trust journalists, but Americans of almost all shades of opinion are skeptical toward the news media , questioning not only the quality of journalists’ work but their intentions behind it. Our guest is Joy Mayer , Director of the non-profit Trusting News , which is working with local newsrooms around the country to help journalists earn consumers' trust. While many reporters, writers and editors are reluctant to discuss their political views, most journalists have liberal or progressive views. "I think it's something we need to talk about more openly," Joy tells us. In this episode, we look at bias, transparency, and constructive steps that the news media can take to improve its reputation with a broad cross-section of Americans. Recommendation : Richard enjoyed watching " The Chair " with Sandra Oh, Jay Duplass and Holland Taylor on Netflix. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, August 27, 2021
American Isolationism and the Fall of Afghanistan. Charles Kupchan
For much of its history, the United States kept the rest of the world at arm's length. What happened in the decades after the 1941 military strike on Pearl Harbor, and several years after the 9/11 attacks, could be seen as an aberration. The sudden, chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, the Taliban takeover, and resulting humanitarian disaster may lead to another American foreign policy shift, plus a far greater reluctance to deploy U.S. forces overseas. While isolationism is derided by policy experts and global elites, this movement has a surprisingly enduring legacy. We examine it here. Charles Kupchan is a professor of international relations at Georgetown University and a Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. " Isolationism : A History of America’s Efforts to Shield Itself from the World" is his most recent book. We share extracts from an interview with Charles by Justin Kempf , host of the Democracy Group podcast, " Democracy Paradox ". "Beginning in the 1990s, and then really picking up after 9/11, the United States overreached ideologically by thinking it could turn Iraq and Afghanistan into Ohio, says Charles. "Suddenly, I think, Americans said to themselves and to their leaders, ‘Wait a minute. Too much world, not enough America.’" Also in this episode: Jim and Richard share their views on the Afghan collapse and offer several solutions for American foreign policy. Recommendation: Jim is watching " Unforgotten ", a widely-praised British crime drama television series, starring Nicola Walker and Sanjeev Baskkar. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, August 13, 2021
Identity Politics: Dignity and Resentment. Francis Fukuyama
Successful politicians on the right and left often use anger and resentment to build support for their campaigns. "A lot of our politics is dignity politics," argues Stanford political scientist, Francis Fukuyama , our guest in this episode. "It's one group saying, 'look, you are not taking us seriously. You disregard our rights and we demand a different kind of world.'" We discuss whether identity politics are damaging our democracy at a time of deep polarization when many national and global institutions struggle to respond to growing challenges. "We have shifted from arguing about economic policies to arguing about identities," Fukuyama tells us. In his book, " Identity : The Demand for Dignity and The Politics of Resentment ," he warns that unless we forge a clear understanding of human dignity, we will doom ourselves to continuing conflict. We discuss other solutions, including the need for more civics education, national service, and the benefits of universal healthcare and other policies that help all, instead of focusing on a single group. In the United States, “it’s better if both parties actually stick to broad social policy issues that they can argue about, rather than lining themselves up according to biological characteristics,” he says. We examine Fukuyama's provocative analysis of populism, nativism, white nationalism, radical Islam, and authoritarian tendencies that threaten to destabilize democracy and international affairs. Francis Fukuyama is probably best-known for " The End of History and the Last Man" , published after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. His other major works include " The Origins of Political Order " and " America at the Crossroads " Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, August 06, 2021
#315 Living Better With COVID: 6 Fixes. Hosts Jim and Richard
In this special episode, Richard and Jim have an extended conversation around six solutions to help us manage the pandemic more successfully, and improve responses to future public health emergencies. 1. Have a more realistic view of the virus. This includes understanding that the virus won't go away anytime soon. Clear, honest communication from the media and government health officials will help. 2. Restoring Trust. Greater transparency by public health officials and honesty about what is not known are two ways to improve understanding and trust. 3. Improve access to care and medical literacy. 4. Focus on the severe cost of the pandemic to children. 5. Make it Harder for People to be Unvaccinated. Over 95% of new COVID-related hospital cases are among unvaccinated Americans. 6. COVID will probably increase life expectancy: The virus has led to advances in mRNA vaccines and viral medicine. The pandemic will speed up and intensify research into other life-threatening illnesses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, July 29, 2021
Reading is Vital for Democracy: Joseph Luzzi
America is facing a reading crisis, and this has profound impacts on how we engage with the world. The number of adults who read books for pleasure fell by more than 30% in less than 15 years. Researchers found that Americans watch TV three hours a day, but spend less than 30 minutes reading. "Reading is seeing the world through someone else's eyes," says our guest, Joseph Luzzi , Professor of Comparative Literature at Bard College. "I think of social media as a mirror. You look into it and your tastes and interests are reflected back on you. Literature is a prism. You look into it and you are engaged." Recent neuroscience research suggests fiction literature helps people develop empathy and critical thinking. The decline in reading and the popularity of social media may have profound impacts on democracy, feeding into our deep partisan division, and reinforcing extreme opinions. In this episode, we also discuss how reading Dante helped save Joseph after he became a widower and a father on the same day. We also learn about his 4-for-45 prescription for how reading literature can bring pleasure enlightenment to our daily lives. Learn more about Joseph Luzzi's monthly book group, books and public lectures here . Recommendations : In this episode, Jim and Richard reveal the books that had a profound impact on them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 23, 2021
Fix More, Waste Less. Right to Repair. Sandra Goldmark
Our relationship with our stuff is broken. What was once fixed is often tossed into landfills. Repairs today are more expensive than the prices of many new clothes, gadgets, and household appliances. The U.S. has 5% of the world's population, but consumes about 30% of the world's resources and creates almost a third of the world's waste. Large manufacturers restrict the repair of their goods by limiting the availability of parts and repair information. Their policies sparked a consumer backlash and a growing right-to-repair movement. This week, The Federal Trade Commission said it wants to give consumers new rights to fix devices and limit "unfair anti-competitive restrictions" by manufacturers. Our guest, Sandra Goldmark , is a leader in the movement to demand better “stuff.” She doesn’t just want to help us clear away clutter—she aims to move us away from a throwaway culture, to teach us to reuse and repurpose more thoughtfully. We discuss her new book, " Fixation : How to Have Stuff without Breaking the Planet,” and the case for a circular economy . Sandra is a professor at Barnard College in New York and leads its sustainability program. She's also the founder of Fixup, a non-profit group that runs pop-up repair shops and advocates for making sure consumers have the right to fix the things they own— their stuff. Recommendation: Jim is an enthusiastic cyclist, and is impressed by rail-trail pathways— paved trails that follow the routes of old railways lines— and the movement that created them. He enjoys riding on the 750-mile Empire State Trail . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 16, 2021
Defending The Constitution of Knowledge: Jonathan Rauch
Democracies around the world are under threat from populist movements, demagogues, and dogmatic extremists who use disinformation, conspiracy theories, shaming, cancel culture, and other tactics to weaponize social media and challenge our ability to distinguish fact from fiction and truth from falsehood. In his new book , our guest, best-selling author, journalist, scholar, and public intellectual, Jonathan Rauch , offers a stirring defense of the constitution of knowledge— our social system of checks and balances that is crucial for turning disagreement into truth. "This global network of people hunting for each others' errors is far and away the greatest human technology ever invented," Jonathan tells us in this episode of "How Do We Fix It?" The constitution of knowledge, he says, "is a global conversation of people looking for truth, and more especially, looking for the error." With a deep knowledge of history and politics, Jonathan arms listeners and readers with a better understanding of what they can do to protect truth and free inquiry from threats as far away from Russia and as close as your laptop and smartphone. Here's one of our favorite reviews of "The Constitution of Knowledge". Recommendation: Richard watched and much enjoyed " The Leopard ", the 1963 Italian period drama by director Luchino Visconti, starring Burt Lancaster, Claudia Cardinale, and Alain Delon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 09, 2021
Delta Variant & Vaccine Hesitancy: Dr. Wrenetha Julion
The spread of the Delta Variant is a rapidly growing threat to public health, especially in states with low vaccination rates. But cases of COVID-19 are still holding steady in regions where more than 60% of the adult population had at least one shot. The disparity comes at a time of triumph with increasing evidence that the vaccines offer extremely high rates of protection. Dr. Anthony Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, warned that regional differences in coronavirus vaccination rates could create " two types of America ." Vaccine hesitancy is high in rural red states, in Black and Latino communities , and among many young people . In this episode, we hear again from Dr. Wrenetha Julion , professor and Associate Dean for Equity and Inclusion at Rush University College of Nursing in Chicago. We also review the latest research on the Delta Variant and warnings of rising hospitalizations among unvaccinated Americans. Vaccine hesitancy "is a significant problem," says Wrenetha. "It stems from a long history of mistrust and mistreatment of African-Americans and other groups in healthcare systems and research. Unfortunately, those things stick in people's minds." We examine the impact of the Tuskegee experiment and look at Wrenetha's suggestions for building vaccine trust in marginalized communities. Recommendation: Jim is reading "<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/vice-president-agnews-misdeeds-and-the-challenges-
Fri, June 25, 2021
Heat, Drought, Fires : Alastair Gee and Dani Anguiano
Much of the West has just lived through one of the worst June heatwaves in decades. Many states could be in a drought all this summer. From California and Arizona to the mountain West, dangerous heatwaves are almost becoming the norm. The threat of more devastating wildfires prompted calls for reforms of the nation's fire management policies, and are a clear sign that the impacts of climate change are now being felt. We discuss the causes of raging wildfires, including forestry management, climate, and the movement of people, as well as practical steps that can be taken now to reduce the destruction to property and people's lives. Our guests are Guardian journalists Alastair Gee and Dani Anguiano , authors of the book, “ Fire In Paradise : An American Tragedy", a harrowing account of the most destructive wildfire in a century. Both Dani and Alastair reported extensively on the Camp Fire in 2018, and this year's megafires in California, Oregon, and Washington. Recommendation: Jim continues to feed his passion for birdwatching, reading " A Season On The Wind : Inside the World of Spring Migration" by Ken Kaufman. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 18, 2021
Free The Children. Lenore Skenazy
" Why I Let My 9-Year-Old Ride the Subway Alone " was a 2008 newspaper column that turned into a national campaign to help parents raise their children with less anxiety while pushing back against our culture that has become obsessed with kids' fragility. Our guest, Lenore Skenazy , founded free-range kids in the years after she first described making the decision to let her son, Izzy, take the New York City subway home alone. Her column resulted in a flood of media coverage and mixed reactions from parents— from accusations of child abuse to fond memories of childhood freedom. She hosted a TV series, " World's Worst Mom ". This week, the second edition of her best-selling book, " Free-Range Kids : How Parents and Teachers Can Let Go and Let Grow", is published. In this episode, we discuss how parents and educators can step back so kids step up. We also look at the resilience of children and why the rest of the world is laughing at us scaredy-cat Americans. "There's so much intelligence and cognition building going on when kids are figuring out rules, and trying to figure out who's going to play with them," Lenore tells us. This form of learning about the world "doesn't look like learning because it's playing. We really have a hard time believing that you can be playing and learning at the same time." Lenore believes our kids are stronger and smarter than our society assumes. Her work with the Let Grow Project and Let Grow Play Club is built on the principle that children think and act for themselves when adults don't get involved every step of the way. Recommendation: Richard is watching two seasons of the Israeli TV series, " False Flag " on Hulu. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, June 09, 2021
America Talks #ListenFirst. Kristin Hansen and Zoë Jenkins
America's remarkable experiment in a pluralist democracy is under threat from toxic polarization . In this episode, we discuss two current nationwide campaigns to tackle this crisis head-on, America Talks , on Saturday-Sunday, June 12-13, is a powerful conversation event that invites thousands of Americans to connect one-on-one on video across our political divides. By doing so, we remind ourselves that the “other” is – just like us – a person with family, friends, hopes, fears, values, beliefs, and intrinsic worth. The fourth annual National Week of Conversation , June 14-20, organized by #ListenFirst Coalition and over 300 organizations, invites Americans of all views and backgrounds to listen and discover common interests. Sign up for both events at AmericaTalks.us. Our guests are Kristin Hansen , Executive Director of Civic Health Project , Director at AllSides , and 17-year-old Zoë Jenkins , a civic activist who founded DICCE — diversity, inclusion, cultural competency, and equity. Recent polling found that more than 9-in-10 Americans recognize that polarization is a problem, while 7-in-ten say democracy is in danger. This podcast looks at the crisis and the opportunity for changing and strengthening democracy. We also discuss Moral Foundations Theory , Open Mind Platform for schools and workplaces, student-led <
Fri, June 04, 2021
Frontlines of Peace. Séverine Autesserre
The word “peacebuilding” evokes a story we’ve all heard over and over: Violence breaks out, foreign nations react, peacekeepers and million-dollar donors come rushing in, warring parties sign a peace agreement, and, sadly, within months the situation is back to where it started—sometimes worse. But peace can grow in the most unlikely circumstances. What are some strategies that work? Our guest is an award-winning researcher and peacebuilder, Séverine Autesserre , author of the new book, " The Frontlines of Peace ". She shares success stories — innovative grassroots initiatives led by local people, at times supported by foreigners, often employing methods shunned by the international elite. In this episode, we look at examples of local initiatives that build lasting peace. We examine how they differ from the top-down "Peace Inc." approach that can waste billions of dollars in aid and involve massive international interventions. Séverine shows the radical changes we must take in our approach if we hope to build lasting peace around us—whether we live in Congo, the United States, or elsewhere. We also learn how these approaches could help all of us, and discuss the work of moms in Chicago who work against gun violence in their neighborhoods. Featured sound bite: "Let's say you don't care about the rest of the world and you only care about your own community: The lessons we learn from conflict zones can help us improve the situation around us." Recommendation: Richard is watching comedy as a constructive form of escape. The TV series " Better Things " is an example. On earlier shows we recommended " Never Have I Ever " and " Call My Agent ". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 28, 2021
Tough Lessons From Economics. Veronique de Rugy
"We should be humble all the time," says Veronique de Rugy of her study of economics. "There's always something I realize that I didn't understand." In this episode, we discuss the rigorous questions economists need to ask themselves when analyzing the likely impacts of public policies: Questions rarely asked by politicians and others in the public square. We look at the perils of cronyism, the shortcomings of the Ex-Im Bank , growing federal budget deficits , and the unfairness of the highly complex U.S. tax system . Veronique is a senior research fellow at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. She writes a syndicated column looking at economics from a free market, libertarian perspective. Featured quote: "People don't go to the barricades to fight for distortions and economic inefficiency but they should go to the barricades to fight unfairness and cronyism that is unfair." Recommendation: Jim is listening to " The Moment ", a podcast with interviews about the pivotal moments that fueled fascinating creative careers, hosted by Brian Koppelman. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 21, 2021
Ancient Wisdom for Modern Times. Eric Weiner
It's tempting to believe that our current moment is the most urgent of all. Yet despite the catastrophic pandemic, and threats from other urgent problems, humankind has faced worse calamities in the past— from global wars and plagues to economic collapse. In this episode, we look at age-old lessons from philosophy and discover how ancient wisdom can be our guide in modern times. Best-selling author, traveler, and former NPR foreign correspondent, Eric Weiner is our guide. He's the author of the recent book, " The Socrates Express : In Search of Life Lessons From Dead Philosophers". This episode is a fun ride, as we follow in the footsteps of history’s greatest thinkers—from Epicurus to Nietzsche, Thoreau to Gandhi— who show us practical and spiritual lessons for today’s unsettled times. Philosophy helps us during our struggle with disturbing questions raised by the pandemic: How can we remain calm in an uncertain age? How do we endure tough times? There are no easy answers, but philosophy can help us gain a wise sense of perspective, and ask better questions. The age-old lesson from philosophers, says Eric, is that "you can put down your iPhone and close your laptop, and stop acquiring more bits of data." Recommendation: Richard has just finished reading the remarkable novel, "Hamnet" by Maggie O'Farrell. Set in England in 1596, The book is an exploration of grief, marriage, and family life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 14, 2021
Bridging the Rural-Urban Divide. Ashley Ahearn
She lived in Seattle and covered science, climate change, and the environment for NPR for more than a decade. Most of her friends and colleagues were liberals or progressives. Then in 2018, journalist Ashley Ahearn made a big jump, moving with her husband to one of the most conservative counties in rural Washington State. What did this public radio reporter learn from her dramatic change in lifestyle? In this episode, we learn about the profound rural-urban divide in America, and what Ashley discovered about her new neighbors and herself when she switched from the city to the country, now living on a 20-acre property with a horse and a pickup truck. We also discuss how politics and views of the land and climate differ greatly according to where people live. Recently, Ashley Ahearn launched her remarkable 8-part podcast series, Grouse , which looks at life in rural America through the lens of the most controversial bird in the West — the greater sage-grouse. This podcast series is also our recommendation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 07, 2021
Framing is Fundamental. Francis de Véricourt and Kenneth Cukier
Too often in our fierce and narrow political debates, we suffer from a poverty of imagination. Seeing a crisis through a narrow lens of "us versus them" is a barrier to creative solutions and vital changes needed to save lives, protect the planet, and grow prosperity. In this episode we discuss the enormous power and potential of framing: mental models that enable us to see patterns, predict how things will unfold, and understand new situations. Our guests are Kenneth Cukier , a senior editor at The Economist in London, and Francis de Véricourt , professor of management science at the European School of Management and Technology in Berlin. They are two of the co-authors of the new book, " Framers . Human Advantage in an Age of Technology and Turmoil." Real-world examples of how framers changed the world include: The rapid rise of #MeToo , which went viral on Twitter after the actress Alyssa Milano tweeted a request to her followers: “If you’ve been sexually harassed or assaulted write ‘me too’ as a reply to this tweet.”; Successful responses to Covid-19 by the governments of New Zealand , Taiwan , and Australia, and the framing of U.S. Constitution in the late 18th Century. We also learn why the advice to "think outside the box" is useless, and how to understand the role of mental models in our own daily lives. Recommendation: Jim suggests a puzzle: The New York Times "pangram", Spelling Bee . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 30, 2021
Promoting Diversity, Defending Free Speech. Amna Khalid
In the months after George Floyd’s murder, colleges, universities, non-profits, and large corporations across the country embraced anti-racism and diversity training as a way to promote inclusion and racial justice. But do these programs actually work to change minds and achieve their goals? Our guest, associate professor of History at Carleton College, Amna Khalid , argues that while training can improve customer service and knowledge of CPR and Excel spreadsheets, it’s woefully inadequate when confronting complex social problems such as poverty, inequality, discrimination, and racism. Amna grew up under several military dictatorships in Pakistan and came to the U.S. with a passionate commitment to free speech and belief in the power of education to promote curiosity, understanding, and imagination. "Through all my journeys what I've come to realize is that people are individuals more than any category that you can put them into," Amna tells us. "If we really begin to engage with people as individuals then we will do a far better job of diversity and inclusion." While critical race theory (CRT) can be one useful tool in our conversations about race, this episode includes criticism of efforts to promote one all-encompassing view of diversity. Recommendation: Richard enjoyed watching "Soul", which won the Oscar this year for best animated feature movie. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 23, 2021
Good Conflict vs. High Conflict. Amanda Ripley
What’s the greatest crisis facing America today? — Racism and hate crimes, exploding government debt, climate change, or the mess at the border? It may be none of these. America and many other countries are trapped in high conflict . Both sides are paralyzed by fear and anger as they demonize the other. The national narrative of "us versus them" is a threat to democracy and stops us from working together to build a better world. Best-selling author and investigative journalist, Amanda Ripley , is our guest. She is well-known for her writing in The Atlantic, Time, The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal, and many other publications. Her latest book is “ High Conflict : Why We Get Trapped and How We Get Out." Amanda argues that good conflict involves nuance and complexity. It can teach us to be better people, who are capable of solutions as they move past misunderstandings. Many are trapped in high conflict, which is threatening to tear us apart, creating an even deeper crisis than we have now. We discuss "conflict entrepreneurs"— cable TV personalities, talk radio hosts, and politicians from both left and right — who profit from making us angry and fearful. "Most Americans want "out" of this high conflict," Amanda tells How Do We Fix It? "They very much want to see a different way of disagreeing among their politicians and the news media. They are frequently tuning out of politics and the news, which is a big problem, but totally understandable." Recommendation: Jim enjoyed watching " Long Strange Trip ", a highly-praised documentary about the rock band, the Grateful Dead. TV viewers can watch it on Amazon Prime . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 16, 2021
Six years. Six guests. 300 episodes
We’ve made it to our 300th weekly episode! While it’s easy to congratulate ourselves for being among the few podcasts to produce this many shows, Jim and Richard are most proud of our extraordinary range of guests. During our first six years together, we've often highlighted out-of-the-box thinkers, who share ideas that are too rarely discussed: People who speak about solutions through an independent lens— neither firmly left nor right. For this episode, we revisit interviews with six guests— or roughly 2% of all the people we've spoken with for "How Do We Fix It?" We begin with the public intellectual and problem solver Philip K. Howard , who was our very first guest. Others featured here are Claire Cain Miller of The Upshot at The New York Times, Mike Rowe , who became famous with the TV show "Dirty Jobs", science evangelist, Ainissa Ramirez , Jerry Taylor , President and Founder of The Niskanen Center, and R&B musician Daryl Davis , who has personally persuaded more than 200 men and women to quit white supremacist groups. As Jim says, it's been a great privilege to spend time with so many remarkable people and listen to their remarkable personal stories and ideas. We have used the intimate, informal medium of podcasting to pull the curtain back and dive into a rich pool of ideas at the deep end. We are also grateful to the Democracy Group podcast network (we are founding members), Solutions Journalism Network for grants and advice, and Heterodox Academy for introducing this show and our listeners to a remarkable range of creative intellectuals. Thank you, all! This week's Recommendation: What else, but listening to our catalog of shows at How Do We Fix It? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 09, 2021
Fighting Hate and Self-Loathing With Love: Chloé Valdary
Recent mass shootings and the explosion of rage outside the U.S. Capitol on January 6 are reminders of threats posed to us all by anger, fear and loathing. On social media and in the hyper-partisan ways political issues are debated, many of us objectify others. Those who belong to the wrong tribe are often targets of personal scorn. In a Twitter post, our guest, writer and entrepreneur, Chloé Valdary , says: "if you do not possess the power to love, and especially love your enemies, then you don't really have the power." In this episode, first released in 2020, Chloé talks about her antiracism program, Theory of Enchantment , which uses the music and messaging of Beyoncé, Disney movies and pop culture as educational tools, teaching social and emotional learning in schools, and diversity and inclusion in companies and government agencies. The three key principles involve: 1. We are human beings, not political abstractions. 2. Use criticism to uplift, not tear down. 3. Lead with love and compassion. Recommendation: Jim and Richard have the 2020 book, " Utopia Avenue " by British novelist, David Mitchell. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 02, 2021
Infrastructure. How To Pay For It: Maya MacGuineas
Stifle that yawn. Infrastructure just got exciting again. President Biden announced a $2 trillion plan to rebuild roads and rails, repair bridges, modernize airports and seaports, create hundreds of thousands of union jobs in the solar and wind power industries, boost housing, expand broadband access to regions that are poorly served, and speed-up the transition to a climate-friendly economy. Total spending on his proposals could be as much as $4 trillion over the next decade. We explain the President's ambitious plan, which amounts to the biggest spending initiatives in decades, and look at how to pay for it with one of the nation's top experts on the budget and taxes— Maya MacGuineas , President of the non-partisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget . Maya MacGuineas praises recent efforts to spend big on COVID relief, and also discusses ways to restore fiscal balance through reducing unproductive tax breaks, and reforming the tax code. "The bad news is that we had a mountain of debt before the crisis and we have a much larger mountain now." In their conversation in the second half of this episode, Jim takes a deeply skeptical look at the Biden infrastructure proposals, while Richard applauds the President for going big and tackling a huge piece of public policy that was usually neglected by prior administrations. Recommendations: Richard calls " Minari " and " The Father " two remarkable new films that are well-worth watching. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 26, 2021
Fixing The Grid: Our Relationship With Electricity. Gretchen Bakke
Our lives depend on it and most of us don't give it a moment's thought. But when the electricity goes off we feel frustrated— powerless. America's grid was an engineering triumph of the twentieth century, but as the recent sudden freeze and severe power outages in Texas have shown, our electricity infrastructure is fragile and in need of basic repair, especially as the world faces the growing reality of extreme weather events and climate change. On their own solar and wind power are not enough to meet rapidly growing electricity demand. What are other viable, carbon-free alternatives? We discuss strengthening the grid, re-imaging it according to modern values, and our relationship with electricity with cultural anthropologist, Gretchen Bakke , author of " The Grid : The Fraying Wires Between Americans and Our Energy Future." "It's not just that electricity is a modern marvel," Gretchen tells us in this episode. "It almost starts to feel like a natural right. With the pandemic, we really feel how important electricity is to being connected with the world. Everything is plugged in." Recommendation: Jim is watching the hilarious French TV series, " Call My Agent " on Netflix. Richard suggests that we watch more movies and TV shows with subtitles from all parts of the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 19, 2021
Nobody's Normal. Rethinking Mental Illness: Richard Grinker
Our obsession with what is normal and acceptable is at the heart of how we view mental health. It is also the source of stigma around many forms of mental illness. In this podcast with anthropology professor, Richard Grinker , we ask how do we fix it? What are successful ways to challenge stigmas, as we help millions of people reach their full potential? Richard discusses the findings in his uplifting new book, "Nobody's Normal: How Culture Created the Stigma of Mental Illness." Social distancing, remote learning, and disruption of social supports during the COVID pandemic are likely to lead to an even greater crisis of mental illness. But Richard sees hope in this moment. "The pandemic provides us with an opportunity to make progress in destigmatizing mental illness," he tells us. Though the legacies of shame and secrecy are still with us today, Richard says that we are at the cusp of ending the marginalization of the mentally ill. In the twenty-first century, mental illnesses are fast becoming a more accepted and visible part of human diversity. We discuss his groundbreaking reserch. Recommendation: Richard has just and much enjoyed " The Quiet Americans : Four CIA Spies at the Dawn of the Cold War — a Tragedy in Three Acts", by Scott Anderson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 12, 2021
Social Media. Revolution and Reform. Sinan Aral
When social media burst on the scene, many of us were in awe of its great potential. For the first ten years of Facebook, public reaction to this new form of communication was overwhelmingly positive, but now that we have a better understanding of how social media is shaping our world, there are growing calls for fundamental reform. Should tech monopolies be cut down to size and broken apart? Or is a much more careful, nuanced approach needed from Congress? MIT Management Professor Sinan Aral has spent two decades studying how social media changed American politics, the economy, and even our personal health. He is the author of the recent book, " The Hype Machine ". As an entrepreneur and investor, he has a deep understanding of the perils and promise of social media. We publish extracts from his interview with the podcast, " Democracy Works ". "We absolutely must get past this question of is social media good or evil," says Sinan Aral. "The answer is 'yes'. The question is how are we going to harness the promise of social media and avoid the peril." This episode was made with the help and support of the Democracy Group podcast network. Special thanks to Jenna Spinelle , Communications Specialist at the McCourtney Institute for Democracy . Recommendation: Richard recommends learning something new before we emerge from our constricted lockdown lives during the pandemic. In recent months, he has taken a course on Dante's Divine Comedy, learned how to build a fire, and operate a small powerboat. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 05, 2021
Liftoff: How SpaceX Could Save NASA. Eric Berger
Elon Musk is an entrepreneur and out-of-this-world thinker, who has shaken up two vital industries that were dominated by giant multinational corporations with companies that began life as startups. Tesla's breakthrough with electric cars is well-known, but many of Musk's most stunning innovations have come with SpaceX, which pioneered reusable rockets— slashing the cost of space launches— flew astronauts into space, and landed rockets on boats. Next is the development of Starship . Musk also wants to send hundreds if not thousands of humans to Mars. Our guest, Eric Berger , is a senior editor at space and technology news website, Ars Technica , and author of the new book, " Liftoff : Elon Musk and the Desperate Early Days that Launched Space X." He takes us on a fascinating journey, as we look at the remarkable changes in the space race, and what may be coming in the next few years. "This is the most exciting time to write and think about space in my lifetime," Eric tells us on "How Do We Fix It?" "There is so much activity at NASA as well as in the private sector, as well as internationally with China, Europe, Russia, and Japan. All are doing pretty interesting things in space, and in the United States, the commercial sector has been extraordinarily active. Recommendation: Jim watched " My Octopus Teacher " on Netflix. Filmmaker Craig Foster forges an unusual friendship with an octopus living in a South African kelp forest, learning as the animal shares the mysteries of her world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 26, 2021
Understanding Us: We The People. Frank Luntz and Ethan Porter
The January assault on the U.S. Capitol and the depth of toxic partisanship lead us to question our past assumptions about the American electorate and its relationship with the government. This episode features two experts who have spent many years trying to understand us. Frank Luntz is one of the best-known pollsters and political communications experts in America today. We hear edited extracts from a recent interview he recorded with Harvard Law School Professor and attorney, Lawrence Lessig , on the podcast, " Another Way by Lawrence Lessig ". Ethan Porter is an assistant professor of media and public affairs at George Washington University School of Media and Public Affairs, and the author of the new book " The Consumer Citizen " He investigates how voters' everyday experiences as shoppers and consumers influence their political behavior. We hear extracts from his interview on the podcast, " Politics in Question ". "How Do We Fix It?" and both of the podcasts featured in this episode are members of The Democracy Group podcast network. "The single best decision that was made since the election was Twitter kicking Donald Trump off because he can't add to that ugliness anymore", says Luntz, who is a committed Republican. "Government provides people with a lot of benefits that they just don't know about", says Porter. "Because they have a consumer mentality, they become frustrated with government and they want to punish it." Recommendation: " News of the World " with Tom Hanks is based on a popular novel by Texas writer, Paulette Jiles. Her latest book is " Simon The Fiddler " Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 19, 2021
Why We Need Nuance: Meghan Daum
Even before the alarming and violent January 6 assault on the Capitol, American politics was in danger of spinning out of control— bumping up against the guardrails of our democratic institutions. On social media and in the civic square, many have separated into two camps that seem to hate the other side. We have become estranged from family and friends over politics. More than ever, we need nuance. In this episode, our guest is a liberal writer and feminist, Meghan Daum , who is increasingly critical of her own side: the left. Meghan wrote the book, “ The Problem With Everything . My Journey Through The New Culture Wars.” She’s also the host of “ The Unspeakable ”, a podcast that celebrates disagreement and encourages guests to speak uncomfortable truths. “We are not allowing ourselves to sort through our confusions. You have to be on one side or the other,” says Meghan. “If you’re not conflicted, you are either lying to yourself, or you’re not very smart.” Recommendation: Jim recommends “ Post Corona ”, a podcast series hosted by Dan Senor that predicts how COVID19 will transform our world— indefinitely. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 12, 2021
COVID Vaccine Hesitancy: Dr. Wrenetha Julion
More than 10% of the U.S. population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, but injection rates are lower in black and brown communities, and many people express doubts about the shots made by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna. Vaccine hesitancy presents a barrier in the fight against coronavirus. A recent poll by Pew Research Center found that "Black Americans continue to stand out as less inclined to get vaccinated than other racial and ethnic groups: 42% would do so, compared with 63% of Hispanic and 61% of White adults." Our guest, Dr. Wrenetha Julion , professor and department chair at Rush University College of Nursing, discusses causes of vaccine hesitancy and how to encourage more people to take a high-effective vaccine against the virus. Vaccine hesitancy "is a significant problem," says Wrenetha. "It stems from a long history of mistrust and mistreatment of African-Americans and other groups in healthcare systems and research. Unfortunately, those things stick in people's minds." We examine the impact of the Tuskegee experiment and look at Wrenetha's suggestions for building vaccine trust in marginalized communities. Recommendation: Richard is reading The Divine Comedy, a 700-year old epic poem about heaven, hell, and purgatory by Dante Alighieri. Jim recommends " Stuck : How Vaccine Rumors Start and Why They Don't Go Away", by Heidi Larson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 05, 2021
Will Gen Z Save the GOP? Danielle Butcher and John Olds
After the recent storming of the US Capitol and the loss of both the White House and U.S. Senate, it's tempting to believe that civil war will break out among Republicans— a party deeply split between traditional conservatives and Trump-supporting populists. We decided to find out what two young Republicans say about the future of their party, and the need to confront those who believe in conspiracy theories and are nostalgic for a return to a mythical past. Our guests are Danielle Butche r and John Olds. Danielle, who was named to Forbes' 30 Under 30 List, co-founded the American Conservation Coalition , a non-profit group that backs free-market solutions for environmental problems. John Olds, Executive Director of Gen Z GOP , is a Republican activist and senior at George Washington University. Both Butcher and Olds are outspoken critics of Donald Trump. They believe that Republicans must develop constructive policies on climate change, racial inequities and student debt. Both support market incentives to solve a range of problems. Recommendation: Jim Meigs is reading The Federalist Papers , 85 essays written in the 1780's by Alexander Hamilton, John Jay and James Madison. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, January 29, 2021
The Loneliness Pandemic. Noreena Hertz
Even before coronavirus led to social distancing, widespread working from home, and lockdown restrictions, loneliness was becoming a defining condition of the twenty-first century. Today, this pandemic of pain and isolation is far worse. One of many recent polls found that more than three in five Americans say they are lonely, with more and more people reporting feeling like they are left out, poorly understood, and lacking companionship. Other surveys overseas have similar findings. Our guest, the British economist, Noreena Hertz , is the author of " The Lonely Century : How to Restore Human Connection in a World Pulling Apart." Her new book, published February 2, is a personal and deeply-researched investigation into the roots of the loneliness epidemic, how the pandemic and the 2020 election exacerbated the problem, and what we can do to come together. "Loneliness levels have significantly and not surprisingly increased during the pandemic, particularly among the young, women, and people of low income", Noreena tells us. In our interview, we discuss the importance of the workplace in enhancing community, the need to reinvigorate our neighborhoods, and how governments and private enterprise can react to the increase in loneliness and alienation. We also learn more about the link between loneliness and the rise of right-wing populism. Recommendation: Richard and Jim frequently use Wikipedia , which is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Wiki co-founder, Jimmy Wales , is the guest on a recent episode of " the Economist Asks " podcast, hosted by Anne McElvoy . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, January 22, 2021
Free Speech in an Era of Conflict: Nadine Strossen
We are in a stunning moment for our country. A hoard of rioters invaded our nation’s seat of government to try to overturn an election. Many of them appear to have been motivated by false and inflammatory statements by President Trump, and under the sway of wild online conspiracy theories . In response, our leading tech platforms have tried to silence Trump and shut down many of the channels where his most extreme supporters communicate. Is this the correct approach? Should Congress and the Biden Administration impose new regulations on big tech companies? How should free speech be protected? We discuss these questions and more with Nadine Strossen , who has written, taught, and advocated extensively in areas of constitutional law and civil liberties. From 1991 to 2008, she was President of the ACLU — the nation's largest and oldest civil liberties organization. "The First Amendment is only a constraint on the government's censorial power," Nadine tells How Do We Fix It? "Facebook and Twitter are themselves protected by the First Amendment in making editorial decisions." Recommendation: Jim is reading " Hamilton ", the biography of Alexander Hamilton by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow. How Do We Fix It? is a proud member of the Democracy Group podcast network. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, January 15, 2021
Why Many Latinos Vote Republican: Geraldo Cadava
Just before the 2020 election, pundits predicted that Latino Americans would overwhelmingly vote for Joe Biden. And it’s true—Latino voters do tilt Democratic. But Donald Trump won a greater share of Latino votes in some states and large cities than he did in 2016. Because of decades of investment and political courtship, as well as a nuanced and varied cultural identity, the Republican party has had a much longer and stronger bond with Hispanics than many political commentators realize. In this episode, we speak with historian and Latino and Latina studies professor Geraldo Cadava about the findings of his recent book, " The Hispanic Republican ". In the wake of the recent assault on the U.S. Capitol by Trump supporters, we also look at the hazards of putting large groups of voters in a box or describing their political behavior in simple terms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, January 08, 2021
Chaos at the Capitol: What Next? Lee Drutman
The storming of the U.S. Capitol building by an angry mob of Trump supporters was a dark day in American history and a shock to people around the world. Images of looting and anarchy in the proud place where Congress has met for over 200 years, provoked profound despair and led many to question the stability of American democracy. The insurrection brought shame to President Trump, who incited a crowd to march on the legislative branch of government. In this special episode recorded the day after the chaos at The Capitol, we speak with political scientist Lee Drutman of New America, about the political causes of this violent outburst, and what reforms are needed to heal our democracy. "This has been a tremendous wake-up call for a lot of people," Lee told us. "We are really in a fight for the continuation of American democracy." Lee is the author of the book, " Breaking the Two-Party Doom Loop : The Case for Multiparty Democracy in America", and co-host of the podcast, " Politics in Question ". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, December 24, 2020
2020 Year-End Show: What We Learned About COVID
At the start of 2020, the world first became aware of COVID-19. This show looks at what we have learned about the global pandemic since then. In early February, Richard spoke face-to-face with epidemiologist Kylie Carlville of the Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, during a visit to Melbourne, Australia. This recording was made just as scientists were beginning to understand the nature of the outbreak and before COVID-19 was declared a pandemic. In the spring, we interviewed Samson Ellis of Bloomberg News about Taiwan's remarkable success in fighting the spread of the virus. In late December, the number of deaths in Taiwan from COVID was 7, with only 766 recorded cases. Total US cases were more than 18 million. In June, oncologist, bioethicist, and healthcare expert, Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel , explained the global lessons to be learned from the crisis. He wrote the recently published book, “Which Country Has the World’s Best Healthcare?” This episode also includes practical lessons about public healthcare from physician and CEO Doctor Vivian Lee . And we went in pursuit of wisdom and discovery with journalist Eric Weiner , author of the new book, “The Socrates Express: In Search of Life Lessons From Dead Philosophers". We discuss what ancient philosophy can teach us about living in a time of hardship. Recommendations: Richard's favorite book of 2020 was " Apeirogon ", a novel by Irish writer, Colum McCann and the Netflix comedy series " Call My Agent ." Jim recommends the subscription site substack.com , a site for independent thinkers who write newsletters on a wide range of topics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, December 18, 2020
Net-Zero America by 2050: Jesse Jenkins and Eric Larson
In his ambitious climate plan , President-elect Biden p romises that by 2050 the United States will reach net-zero carbon emissions. A groundbreaking new study from energy experts at Princeton University outlines five different pathways for how to reach net-zero emissions of greenhouse gases, using existing technology, and at costs aligned with historical average spending on energy. The research is the first to quantify and map in specific detail the infrastructure that would be needed to achieve this goal. Our guests are Jesse Jenkins and Eric Larson , two principal investigators on the study. Jesse is an engineering professor, and Eric is a senior research engineer. Both work at Princeton's Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment and have conducted extensive research on ways to produce clean energy. "We wanted to paint several different pictures that are quite different from each other to illustrate there are many different ways to get to net-zero," Eric tells us. The study makes it clear that while reaching this goal is challenging, it also would bring many environmental, public health and economic benefits, including millions of new jobs and less pollution. Recommendation: Jim has enjoyed watching " Fantastic Fungi ", an entertaining and highly inventive documentary on Amazon Prime about a world that lives beneath our feet. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, December 11, 2020
Mothers, Families and COVID - Erica Komisar
Despite the tragedy, suffering and economic losses of COVID, there are silver linings for many families in the current crisis. Recent lockdowns have a bright side for teens . A new survey says they're spending more time with their parents, getting extra sleep, and suffering from lower levels of clinical depression. Our guest, New York psychoanalyst, parent coach, and author Erica Komisar, wrote in The Wall Street Journal "it has taken a pandemic to prove that it's possible to integrate work into our personal lives, as many millions of parents are now working from home. "Everyone wins— maternity-leave advocates who have been fighting for this arrangement for years, employers, mothers and children most of all." In lockdowns, Erica tells us, "children are getting a great deal more of their parents' time and attention and energy than they have previously.' In this episode, we also discuss why the findings of her book, " Being There : Why Prioritizing Motherhood in the First Three Years Matters" challenge both liberals and conservatives. We look at the case for extended paid maternity leave, and the potential emotional costs of daycare for infants and toddlers. Recommendation: Jim is listening to " Missing in Alaska ", a podcast by journalist Jon Walczak about a 50-year-old mystery of a plane disappearance . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, December 04, 2020
Breakthroughs in Science & Space: Neil deGrasse Tyson
We live in a remarkable time for science. Vaccines to fight COVID-19 have been developed with surprising speed and are reported to be more than 90% effective against the virus. Dramatic progress has also been made in the quest to overhaul and improve America's space program. Recent innovations and reusable rockets have dramatically cut the cost of space launches. Vaccine research and space innovation are examples of public-private partnerships between government and businesses. Neil deGrasse Tyson , America’s most prominent spokesman for science and the Director of New York City’s Hayden Planetarium , talks about the benefits to us all of having a cosmic perspective, the case for human space flight, and lessons learned from his best-selling book, " Astrophysics for People in a Hurry ." We also discuss " We're Living in a New Space Age ," in the new issue of Commentary Magazine, written by our co-host, Jim Meigs. A public-private partnership, with Elon Musk of Space X in a key role, is producing results, as "successive presidential administrations have backed NASA'S market-oriented innovators," writes Jim. Recommendation : Richard is watching " Fireball : Visitors From Darker Worlds." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, November 20, 2020
The Case for AllSides: John Gable, Samantha Shireman
More than ever, we need to fight fake news and misinformation by getting out of our filter bubbles. A bitterly contested election at a time of political paralysis and partisan bickering makes the case for change even more urgent. In this episode, we look at the groundbreaking work of AllSides.com , which shines a light on media bias by offering readers a selection of daily news stories from publications that tilt left, right or center. Our guests are AllSides founder and CEO John Gable, and the site’s director of product, Samantha Shireman . AllSides is an increasingly popular media destination with many millions of page views that aims to strengthen democracy with balanced news and diverse perspectives. Today's recommendation: Richard is reading " Apeirogon ", a novel by the Irish writer, Colum McCann. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, November 13, 2020
Problem Solvers in Congress: Abigail Spanberger (D) Brian Fitzpatrick (R)
In the days since the 2020 election, political distrust and anxiety have only deepened. But divided government and very narrow majorities for both parties in Congress might present an opportunity for bipartisan solutions on several major issues. President-elect Biden has talked about his vision of an America that is "unified, strengthened, and healed." In this episode we discuss the case for compromise with two Members of Congress, one Republican and one Democrat. Both are members of Problem Solvers Caucus, a group of 25 members of each party who work together across rigid partisan divides. Democrat Abigail Spanberger , the U.S. Representative for Virginia's 7th Congressional District, won a second term in an area narrowly won by Donald Trump. Two days after the election she spoke out against messaging used by progressives, telling fellow House Democrats that talk of socialism and defunding the police nearly led to her defeat. Brian Fitzpatrick is a Republican Member of Congress, representing Pennsylvania's 1st Congressional District. A moderate who distanced himself from Donald Trump, Fitzpatrick won re-election by a wide margin. Recommendation: Jim is reading the forthcoming book, " Inferno , The True Story of a B-17 Gunner's Heroism and the Bloodiest Military Campaign in Aviation History" by Joe Pappalardo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, November 06, 2020
Our Election 2020 Lessons. Jim and Richard
Days after the historic 2020 election, final results are still coming in. But some lessons of the vote are becoming clear. On this episode, our hosts, Richard and Jim, discuss the five lessons they learned. 1. The system is working - so far. Despite the slow pace of counting, election day was met with massive enthusiasm by voters from all sides. 2. Reform opinion polls - They were wrong again. Polls in Florida, Texas and Wisconsin are among the worst examples. Many polls under-counted Trump voters. 3. Stop Generalizing! The Latino vote is much more complex than many assume. Faulty generalizations are also made about the influence of money in campaigns. 4. The Woke Counter Rebellion Has Begun. Despite Trump’s unpopularity with moderates, he did better than expected. Many voters may be put off by violence in Portland, progressive calls to defund the police, and higher taxes. 5. Character Counts. Joe Biden made this an election about character and decency. He understood the electorate better than most politicians. Jim and Richard have some lively disagreements, but they find common ground on some big election controversies. Recommendation: Richard is listening to " Uncivil War ", the new album by blues singer, Shemekia Copeland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 30, 2020
Record High Voter Turnout? Seth Flaxman
One of the biggest surprises of the 2020 election may turn out to be turnout. Traditionally, a smaller percentage of American voters participate in elections than in many other democracies around the world. But this year, early voting hit a record high, with tens of millions of mail-in ballots, and very long lines at many polling places. In this episode, we look at a highly innovative, successful initiative to use the internet to boost the number of voters in elections. "Our mission" says the non-profit group Democracy Works "is to make voting a simple, seamless experience for all Americans, so that no one misses an election." Democracy Works CEO and co-founder. Seth Flaxman is our guest. "At the end of the day, we think every American is going to want a sort of service, like a concierge, helping them to vote in the election," he says. "Even people who say they never miss elections sign up to get the reminders." This episode is funded with a grant from Solutions Journalism Network as part of " Renewing Democracy ", to encourage reporting about how people and institutions are trying to reinvigorate democracy in communities across the country. Democracy Works is affiliated with Bridge Alliance, a coalition of over 100 organizations dedicated to U.S. revitalization. With each organization focusing on a different sector of the movement , its members represent a combined three million supporters in the burgeoning field of civic reform and civil discourse. Recommendation: Jim is listening to Commentary podcast, a daily discussion of conservative opinion by editors of the well-known magazine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 23, 2020
Covid Pandemic: America's Wake Up Call. Adrian Wooldridge
If the Covid pandemic has taught us anything, it is that the government's response to a global health emergency can mean the difference between living and dying. America's woeful performance in recent months has exposed how far we have fallen behind public health systems in much of Asia. While China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Singapore combined have recorded fewer than 1,000 cases per day since September, the U.S. is reporting over 60,000 daily cases. Our guest is Adrian Wooldridge of The Economist, and co-author of " The Wake Up Call : Why the Pandemic Has Exposed the Weakness of the West and How to Fix It." "We need to have a much more efficient government that is collectively valued by society," says Adrian. He argues that it's time to make government great again. In this episode, we discuss steps to improve government's use of technology and delivery of services while protecting individual liberty. Recommendation: Jim is listening to the podcast " 50 Years of Music With 50 Year-Old White Guys " note: Here's a link to new developments in music podcasts, mentioned during this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 16, 2020
Four Threats: American Democracy in Crisis: Suzanne Mettler
More than half of American voters expect to see a rise in violence after election day, according to a recent poll . Only 49% said Americans will largely accept the results. These findings and others suggest that American democracy is facing intense stress. President Trump has repeatedly refused to say whether he would accept the official results. "Trump and Biden supporters have deep disagreements over several aspects of the election and voting process – including whether it will be clear which candidate won even after all the votes are counted," says Pew Research Center . This episode examines how our current problems compare to past outbreaks of political turmoil. Professor Suzanne Mettler , co-author of the new book, " Four Threats : The Recurring Crises of American Democracy" is our guest. The four threats are: polarization, racism and nativism, economic inequality, and excessive presidential power. "Today, for the first time ever, all four of these threats to democracy have come together," Suzanne tells us. Richard and Jim, who calls himself "the pushback guy" in this episode, also have a lively discussion about the book's findings. Recommendation: Richard is reading “All the King’s Men” - first published in 1946 and written by Robert Penn Warren. The Pulitzer Prize-winning novel portrays the dramatic rise of Governor Willie Stark, a cynical left-wing autocratic populist in the South. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 09, 2020
Why Voting Isn't Enough. CivicLex: Richard Young, Megan Gulla
How do you get supporters of Donald Trump and Joe Biden in the same room at the same time working together on something political? It sounds almost impossible, but even at a time of hyper-partisan division, progress and trust can be achieved on a local level. In this episode, we look at the groundbreaking work of CivicLex , a non-profit civic education and solutions journalism group based in Lexington, a Kentucky city of nearly 400,000 people. Civic Lex has three main goals: Improve access to information, Change the processes that govern how the city interacts with residents, and Democratize political power. Our CivicLex guests are: Executive Director, Richard Young , who has worked on civic engagement and community development projects for almost a decade, and Director of Programs, Megan Gulla , who has worked and volunteered in a variety of fields, including creative, local journalism. CivicLex has won funding from The National Endowment for the Arts, Knight Foundation, Facebook Journalism Project and other major donors. "There's something brilliant" in the mission of CivicLex, says Danielle Allen, Director of the Safra Center for Ethics at Harvard University. "They're foregrounding the importance of relationships." This show and several other recent episodes on local initiatives are funded with a grant from Solutions Journalism Network. We thank them for their support and encouragement. Recommendation: Richard (our-co host!) is listening to the new podcast series, hosted by author and historian Jon Meacham, " Hope Through History ." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 02, 2020
Advice to my Younger Self: Bruce Van Dusen
How does your career stay on track at a time of very high unemployment, great technological change and enormous uncertainty? We explore these questions and much more with one of the advertising industry's most successful commercial directors. When he was 23, Bruce Van Dusen was desperate for a job. For the next 40 years, he thought that every commercial that he made would be his last. With a mix of audacity, determination, and hard work, plus a dash of deep personal insecurity, Bruce developed a remarkable knack for crafting stories that could be told in 30 seconds. His wise and highly entertaining new book is " 60 Stories About 30 Seconds : How I Got Away With Being a Pretty Big Commercial Director Without Losing My Soul (Or Maybe Just Part of It)." We discuss some lessons Bruce learned along the way-- lessons that he wished he had known when he started out in his crazy, fast-changing industry. Such as: Go to a meeting any time anywhere; Treat all famous people like they're not; Nothing lasts forever unless you tinker with it all the time. Listen to Crazy Eddie "I Know He's Crazy, But Is He Alive?", one of the many hilarious stories from Bruce's book here. Recommendation: Jim is reading " Made Men . The Story of Goodfellas", by Glenn Kenny. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, September 25, 2020
Loving Yourself and Humanity: Chloé Valdary
Anger, fear and loathing cut across our deeply divided, hyper-partisan political divide. From The White House and the streets of cities, to furious posts on social media, many of us objectify others. Those belong to the wrong tribe are often the objects of personal scorn. In a recent Twitter post, our guest, Chloé Valdary , says: "if you do not possess the power to love, and especially love your enemies, then you don't really have the power." In this episode, Chloé talks about her antiracism program, Theory of Enchantment , which uses pop culture as an educational tool, teaching social and emotional learning in schools, and diversity and inclusion in companies and government agencies. The three key principles involve: 1. We are human beings, not political abstractions. 2. Use criticism to uplift, not tear down. 3. Lead with love and compassion. Recommendation: Jim is reading the new book, " Utopia Avenue " by British novelist, David Mitchell. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, September 18, 2020
Fires In The West: Alastair Gee and Dani Anguiano
Massive wildfires in the west have burned through more than five million acres, forced tens of thousands of people from their homes, and spread smoke and air pollution across many states. This year's historic wildfire season prompted calls for reforms of the nation's fire management policies, and are a clear sign that the impacts of climate change are now being felt. Changes in the weather leading to temperature extremes and drought are no longer a theory. We discuss the causes of raging wildfires, including forestry management, climate, and the movement of people, as well as practical steps can be taken now to reduce the destruction to property and people's lives. Our guests are Guardian journalists Alastair Gee and Dani Anguiano , authors of the new book, “ Fire In Paradise : An American Tragedy", a harrowing account of the most destructive wildfire in a century. Both Dani and Alastair reported extensively on the Camp Fire in 2018, and this year's megafires in California, Oregon and Washington. Jim writes about The West's fires in City Journal: " Wildfire Hype and Hope ". Recommendation: Jim is feeding his recent passion for birdwatching, reading " A Season On The Wind : Inside the World of Spring Migration" by Ken Kaufman. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, September 11, 2020
Radical Health for Pregnant Women: Ivelyse Andino
“Tech For The Public Good” is supported by a grant from Solutions Journalism Network . Technology is a double-edged sword, especially during the coronavirus pandemic. Despite well-publicized threats from bots, hackers, government spooks and huge online firms, tech is often a force for public good. In this special episode on civic tech, we report on a local effort to promote better healthcare for those who need it most: the residents of America's poorest Congressional District : New York's 15th CD in The Bronx. Ivelyse Andino is our guest. She's the founder and CEO of Radical Health , a minority-owned, Bronx-based health-equity social enterprise that uses technology, an app powered by artificial intelligence; and community conversations to help (among others) pregnant women and new mothers understand their health care rights. According to U.S. government statistics, black women are up to six times more likely to die from complications of pregnancy than white women. "The U.S. is ranked as one of the most dangerous countries in the world to give birth if you are a black or brown woman," says Ivelyse. She compares the healthcare system to a McDonalds. "You're in. You're out." Ivelyse was born and raised in the Bronx. She began her career in health tech, and trained oncologists on new drugs. Her life took a dramatic turn when her mother was diagnosed with cancer, which forced her to personally confront systematic disparities and failings of the healthcare system. Our producer, Miranda Shafer, spoke with several local activists including Kaniya Samm who is a community organizer; and Alexis Del Rio, the co-founder of Bronx Móvil, a bilingual mobile harm reduction program. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, September 04, 2020
COVID Pandemic. How Philosophy Can Help: Eric Weiner
Fears about COVID-19 can take an emotional toll, leading to a growing sense of worry and panic. We ask: How can philosophy help us cope with adversity in a pandemic? We go in pursuit of wisdom and discovery with journalist and author Eric Weiner , author of the new book, " The Socrates Express : In Search of Life Lessons From Dead Philosophers". This episode is a rollicking ride, as we follow in the footsteps of history’s greatest thinkers—from Epicurus to Nietzsche, Thoreau to Gandhi— who show us practical and spiritual lessons for today’s unsettled times. Philosophy helps us as we struggle with disturbing questions raised by coronavirus. How to find a level of calm and certainty in an uncertain age? How do we endure tough times? There are no easy answers, but as with religious texts, philosophy helps us ask better questions. "We often confuse knowledge and wisdom, and we think that what we need to get out of this mess is more information," Erik tells us. "More information, we think, is always better. And that's clearly not the case." The age-old lesson from philosophy, says Erik, is that you can "put down your iPhone and close your laptop and stop acquiring more bits of data" Recommendation: Richard enjoys " Tiny Vampires ," a podcast series about about disease, science and blood sucking insects. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, August 28, 2020
Renewing Work in America: Oren Cass
The American worker is in crisis and faces a very uncertain future. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a deep recession and millions of layoffs. Even before coronavirus— despite a decade of continuous economic growth— the percentage of Americans with jobs was well below normal levels. Many people had dropped out of the labor force, and gave up looking for work. For the first time in modern memory, life expectancy started to fall as substance abuse and obesity rates rose. Our guest, conservative author Oren Cass, argues that we've abandoned the American worker, and pushed four-college at the expense of more effective solutions. In his widely-praised book, " The Once and Future Worker ", Oren argues that government policy should emphasize production, not consumption. His arguments were summarized in The Atlantic . "We've become obsessed with consumerism-- measuring everything in terms of consumers and living standards... In the process, we've forgotten that producing stuff is important too.” Oren Cass is Executive Director of the new conservative think tank, American Compass . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, August 21, 2020
It's So Hard To Change Our Minds: Eleanor Gordon-Smith
Most people reject facts that cause them discomfort or don't line up with their view of the world. All too often emotion, not reason, informs our beliefs. Despite social media claims that #factsmatter, it's surprisingly difficult to use rational arguments to change minds. "It's surprising how much we still put faith in rational argument," says our guest, Australian writer and philosopher, Eleanor Gordon-Smith . In this summer re-run episode from November, 2019, we take a fun, fascinating journey to the limits of human reason. Eleanor's book " Stop Being Reasonable. How We Really Change Our Minds," includes personal stories of successful persuasion that illustrate what most of us get wrong about rationality she says. Her latest book is, Illogical Stories: how to change minds in an unreasonable world. "Hearing the story of how somebody changes their mind is hearing the story of how they change their life," Eleanor tells us. "Why, when we know that changing our minds is as tangled and difficult and messy as we are, do we stay so wedded to the thought that rational debate is the way to go about it?" The book and our podcast begin with Eleanor interviewing men who catcalled her in the street and made obscene gestures. Did she convince these guys to change their behavior? Find out what happened... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, August 14, 2020
America’s Voting Crisis. Charles Stewart, David Litt
Joe Biden's selection of Kamala Harris to be his vice-presidential running mate is a reminder that the fall election season is about to start in earnest. In this episode, we discuss solutions for America's voting crisis. People of all political persuasions have expressed concerns about holding an election in the COVID pandemic. President Trump made unsubstantiated claims about voter fraud. Many have protested the barriers faced by voters who find it difficult or nearly impossible to have their say in elections. In Georgia this summer, some voters waited in line for 5 hours to make their voices heard, while New York election officials took many weeks to count absentee ballots and get the results from congressional primary elections. This podcast is produced with assistance from the Democracy Group podcast network. We feature groundbreaking interviews from " Democracy Works " podcast with elections expert, MIT political science professor, Charles Stewart , and former Obama speechwriter David Litt , who appeared recently on " Democracy Matters " podcast. David Litt is the author of the new book, “ Democracy in One Book Or Less : How It Works, Why It Doesn’t, and Why Fixing It Is Easier Than You Think.” Charles Stewart has spoken with election officials across the country about election security, and how to successfully implement voting-by-mail, while ensuring that in-person voting during COVID is safe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, August 07, 2020
Lessons From a Thousand Towns: Singer-Songwriter Dar Williams
At a time of social distancing, limited travel and other restrictions to protect public health, we get a nostalgic reminder of the joy of journeys, and infinite variety of America's small cities and towns. This episode was first published in 2018. Our guest, Dar Williams , has been called "one of America's very best singer-songwriters " by The New Yorker. A remarkably well-traveled musician, she tells us how towns and cities can turn themselves around. " What I Found in a Thousand Towns : A Traveling Musician's Guide to Rebuilding America's Communities" is an impassioned account of the fall and rise of small American towns she cherishes. Dar chronicles practical success stories and challenges, delivering her message with hope and love. "The opposite of division is not unity. It is collaboration," says Dar. We discuss the power of positive proximity and how working on local projects together can bring different parts of a community together. Dar speaks of the strength of weak ties and why they help build networks of people who act as stewards for the places that they love. From improving police-community relations in Gainesville, Florida, to the revival of Beacon, New York , we learn of many examples of how communities can succeed and thrive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 31, 2020
Climate Alarm: Bad for the Environment? Michael Shellenberger
Climate change is real, but it's not the end of the world, says our guest, science writer, Michael Shellenberger . He argues in the controversial new book, " Apocalypse Never ", that activists use alarmism to describe threats posed by rising levels of carbon in the atmosphere, and are harming the cause of environmentalism. His proposed solutions include support for carbon-free nuclear power, agricultural industrialization, urbanization, and technological innovation. This episode provoked a lively debate. Richard disagrees with the tone and some of the arguments made here. Jim is more supportive. But both of our hosts agree that discussing tough issues with plenty of room for conflicting opinions is an important part of what we do. A self-described eco-modernist, Michael Shellenberger is an author, environmental policy writer, co-founder of Breakthrough Institute , and founder of Environmental Progress . Recommendation : Richard is reading " In This Together " by Bill Shireman and Tramell Crow, and is following the work of EarthX , a series of conferences that bring together environmental activists, corporate leaders and researchers interested in a more sustainable future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 24, 2020
Refugees and Migrants: Tolu Olubunmi, Leonard Doyle, Ahmed Badr
One of the many impacts of COVID-19 is a sharp decline in travel. In many parts of the world, the virus led to a temporary hold on one of the greatest trends of the modern age: the mass movement of people— from tourists to migrants, expats, asylum seekers, refugees, and IDP’s, internally displaced people. An estimated 244 million people , or about 3.3% of the world’s population, were born in one country and now live in another. Even before COVID hit, The Trump Administration reversed decades of US policy on immigration and refugees, imposing sweeping restrictions on admitting foreign workers, refugees, and students. Business groups sued the Administration over new limits on work visas. Universities and colleges objected to restrictions on foreign students. House Democrats passed a bill to reverse the restrictions. Many see migration as a threat. But for others it’s an opportunity. On this show we re-visit interviews with advocate Tolu Olubunmi, Leonard Doyle the UN migration agency, IOM, and podcaster Ahmed Badr. Tolu Olubunmi , hosted the podcast series, " A Way Home Together : Stories of the Human Journey". She is a global advocate for migrants, refugees, and displaced people. She is a Dreamer, born in Nigeria, who now lives in The United States. Leonard Doyle is a former journalist, and head of media and communications at the UN migration agency IOM. He spoke with Richard about global migration trends, and the need for a better understanding of immigrants and refugees. Ahmed Badr is a 21-year-old author, social entrepreneur and former Iraqi refugee. He is the host of the new podcast series, " Resettled ", and founder of Narratio, a digital platform that highlights the creative work of young people across the world. Recommendation: Jim is watching the TV series, Never Have I Ever, airing on Netflix. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 17, 2020
The Problem With Cancel Culture: Megan McArdle
We’ve all canceled something. Whether it’s a subscription, a vacation, or a date, cancelling or erasing a person? It seems so brutal. So unforgiving and final. It’s no surprise that cancel culture began on social media. Supporters say they are targeting people, companies and institutions for endorsing systems of racism, inequality, and bigotry. Opponents of cancel culture argue that this form of shaming causes personal injury, stifles debate and is a chilling threat to free speech. In this episode, we speak with opinion columnist Megan McArdle of The Washington Post, who wrote the recent article, " The Real Problem With Cancel Culture ." She is also the author of "The Up Side of Down: Why Failing Well Is the Key to Success.” We also discuss the Harper's Letter on open debate, signed by more than 150 academics, journalists and intellectuals, and the resignation of opinion journalist Bari Weiss from The New York Times. "One of the arguments you get into is that cancel culture isn't real because there've always been things you couldn't say," Megan tells us. "But now the things you couldn't say are in a much wider range of topics, and a much broader range of things about those topics that you can't say." Recommendation: Richard recommends the news website allsides.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 10, 2020
Democracy Reform: Voters Not Politicians. Katie Fahey
Gerrymandering, the partisan process of redrawing political maps to favor one political party over the opposition, is often used unfairly to take power away from many voters. Voters Not Politicians is a highly successful grassroots campaign against gerrymandering in Michigan that began with a simple Facebook post by its young founder, Katie Fahey. The group took on party bosses, won a ballot initiative, and changed state law. This episode discusses how this campaign could be a model for others. In 2018, Michigan voters overwhelmingly approved a citizen-led ballot initiative to create an independent commission to draw up the state’s congressional and legislative maps. This week, a federal court threw out a second attempt by the state Republican Party to over-turn the result. Months from now a new state redistricting commission will be given the job of fairly drawing a legislative map. This episode of "How Do We Fix It?" received funding from Solutions Journalism Network , a non-profit group that trains and connects journalists to cover what's missing in today's news: solutions, and how people are responding to problems. Recommendation: Jim is reading " Midnight In Chernobyl " by Adam Higginbotham. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 03, 2020
Generation Z. The Future of U.S. Democracy: Civics Unplugged
America's four most powerful political leaders--President Trump, former Vice President Joe Biden, Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell-- are all in their mid-to-late seventies. In this episode, we hear from four 16 to 18 year-olds about the future of American democracy, and why they're committed to working for positive change. Zoë Jenkins, Emmy Cho, Thanasi Dilos, and Noor Mryan are among the 200 inaugural fellows of the new non-partisan, youth-led movement, Civics Unplugged. On July 4th, 2020, they are signing the Civics 2030 Declaration, part of a decade-long campaign to create a better world. The movement's first annual summit began with Commence 2030 , a launch platform and celebration of Gen Z "civic superheroes" who are working on a decade-long set of projects and initiatives aimed at bringing a brighter future for our country's democracy. Senator Cory Booker, Andrew Yang, Steve Balmer, Audrey Tang, the digital minister of Taiwan, and The Rock, retired pro-wrestler Dwayne Johnson, all spoke at the online event. Recommendation: Richard is reading " Why We're Polarized" , by Ezra Klein. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 26, 2020
The World's Best Healthcare Systems: Ezekiel Emanuel
The U.S. spends far more money on healthcare than any other nation, but has the most confirmed COVID-19 cases . The lax response to the coronavirus crisis exposed many weaknesses in the system , which was less prepared for a pandemic than other nations. In this episode, we look at what can be learned from other systems around the world. Our guest is the well-known oncologist, bioethicist, and healthcare expert, Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel , author of the new book, " Which Country Has the World's Best Healthcare? " "Every country feels that their healthcare costs are high. Ours are stratospheric," Dr. Emanuel tells us. "Our drug costs are way higher than any other country, but every country is feeling pressure from drug costs." In his book, Dr. Emanuel profiles 11 healthcare systems around the world. From Taiwan to Germany, Australia to Switzerland, healthcare providers tackle a global set of challenges, in pursuit of better healthcare solutions. Recommendation: Our producer, Miranda Shafer, is reading the novel, Writers and Lovers , by Lily King . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 19, 2020
How Innovation Works and Why It Matters. Matt Ridley
"The Covid-19 pandemic reveals that far from living in an age of incessant technological change, we have been neglecting innovation in exactly the areas where we most need it." So writes our podcast guest, best-selling author Matt Ridley . We discuss the urgent concept raised in his latest book, " How Innovation Works , And Why It Flourishes in Freedom." As Viscount Ridley, Matt was elected to the UK House of Lords in 2013. His TED Talk, "When Ideas Have Sex" has been viewed more than two million times. His books, including, " The Rational Optimist ", have sold more than one million copies. Matt Ridley argues that we need to change the way we think about innovation, to see it as a bottom-up, incremental process, rather than a top-down event that develops according to plan. He also explains the fundamental difference between innovation and invention. "Trial and error is the secret sauce of innovation," Matt tells us. "Again and again and again if you talk to great innovators they stress the importance of trial and error." We also look at how to improve public policy to allow innovation to flourish. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 12, 2020
Racism, Protests, Police Reform: Coleman Hughes
The massive wave of protests in hundreds of towns and cities across America and in many other countries were sparked by outrage, pain and grief over the killing of George Floyd, and countless incidents of racism against African-Americans. We've all been surprised by the events of the past few weeks. They've forced many of us to question our core beliefs about the political system, public morality, and the distribution of power. For this episode, we looked for someone who could talk about race from a personal, practical, and original viewpoint Our guest is writer and podcaster , Coleman Hughes , a recent graduate of Columbia University, who has testified before Congress, and written articles for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Quillette, and other outlets. Coleman was recently named as a Manhattan Institute fellow. "If we are just going to live in what's comfortable you might as well not think at all", says Coleman, in response to chants, demands and slogans at Black Lives Matter demonstrations. "When your pride becomes tied up in identity the temptation becomes irresistible to lie about any fact that doesn't paint your group in a positive light, and then we lose touch with enormous issues." In this episode, we discuss police corruption, crime and punishment, and racist attacks in communities of color. Recommendation: Richard is following The Fulcrum , a digital news organization, focused on efforts to reverse dysfunctions in American democracy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 05, 2020
Special episode: Racial Injustice: KKKrossing The Divide. Daryl Davis
The nation is again facing the deep pain of racial injustice. The recent killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery , and Breonna Taylor reverberated across the country, sparking widespread protests in many cities. These cases were only the latest on a very long list of attacks and murders of African-American men and women. They resulted in public outrage, some violent incidents, and many calls for police reforms. In this special episode, we share the latest podcast of " Let's Find Common Ground ," a new series of episodes with public leaders that explore points of agreement in this divided time. To gain some insight on what can be done to address discrimination and tensions between races, we speak with R&B and blues musician Daryl Davis , a black man who has spent the past 35 years on a remarkable quest of speaking with, and at times befriending, members of white supremacist groups. He has helped more than 200 KKK members to renounce their racist ideology. "We have to ask ourselves the question: do I want to sit back and see what my country becomes, or do I want to stand up and make my country become what I want to see," Daryl tells us. "I've chosen the latter. And so you have to get into the thick of it." As a race conciliator and lecturer, Davis has received numerous awards and is often sought by CNN, MSNBC, NPR and other media outlets as a consultant on race relations and white supremacy. For more information, visit www.DarylDavis.com . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 29, 2020
The Long Fix. Solutions for Healthcare: Dr. Vivian Lee
The coronavirus crisis has reminded everyone that major reforms are needed to fix the flaws of the U.S. healthcare system. Beyond the huge expense and vast amount of waste, the quality of care varies wildly, and millions of Americans can't get care when they need it. Physician and health care CEO Dr. Vivian Lee draws on her deep experience of the public and private sector to call for a pragmatic and sweeping set of reforms. They include ending the current fee-for-service model and improving price transparency. We discuss the findings of her new book, " The Long Fix: Solving America's Health Care Crisis with Strategies that Work for Everyone." "The silver lining of the COVID 19 is that we've seen a rapid shift to alternative ways of caring for people," says Dr. Lee. Tele-medicine and technology can help lead to better access and healthcare for everyone. Recommendations: Richard gives his thumbs up toTV series: " State of Happiness " and " Halt and Catch Fire " Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, May 21, 2020
How Science Shapes Us. Ainissa Ramirez
We look at scientists who learned to manipulate common materials such as steel, glass and silicon, and how their inventions shaped the human experience. Our guest is scientist, storyteller and science writer, Ainissa Ramirez, author of the new book, " The Alchemy of Us , How Humans and Matter Transformed One Another." We discuss the wonder of science, especially material science: What it is and why it’s a crucial part of all that is in us and around us. Ainissa shares her love of science and tells us stories of the woman who sold time, why the brevity of the telegram influenced newspapers and the writing of Ernest Hemingway, and how a woman chemist exposed the use of Polaroid cameras to track black citizens in apartheid South Africa. We also discuss the teaching of science and technology. "STEM education right now is in the business of making people who can code, says Ainissa. "I think we should be in the business of making good people." Recommendation: "The Alchemy of Us", by Ainissa Ramirez is a warm and engaging book about the innovations that have a profound influence on our everyday lives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 15, 2020
COVID Surprise: 7 Unexpected Changes. Jim and Richard
The Coronavirus pandemic is the 21st century's biggest crisis to date: Worse than either 9/11 or the great recession. Jim and Richard discuss seven surprising things that we didn't know when the lockdowns began in March: 1. Early assessments about coronavirus turned out to be wrong. We now have a much better idea of how COVID-19 is spread and who's at greatest risk. 2. Re-opening the economy is going to be much more difficult than expected. 3. Cars and suburbs are here to stay: how the pandemic may change the way we live and work. 4. Get ready for sweeping changes in higher education. 5. The need for efficient government is much greater than we imagined. 6. The military will play a vital role in recovery and prevention of future pandemics. 7. Our notion of citizenship and sacrifice will fundamentally change. From the economy, politics and education to the deeply uneven impacts on people in different jobs and regions, we discuss the rapidly changing nature of the pandemic and its vast disruption to our world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 08, 2020
Democracy Group Special Episode. Democracy Reform
How will the COVID-19 pandemic change our democracy? Will we become more less divided? We discuss the challenges and opportunities of the current crisis with four podcasters who are all our colleagues in The Democracy Group podcast network. Juleyka Lantigua-Williams , Cara Ong Whaley , Mila Atmos and Lee Drutman join Richard to talk about barriers to voting, civic engagement and equal access to the democratic system. They look at what the current crisis means for advocates of democracy reform. Juleyka is the creator and executive producer of the Peabody-nominated 70 Million , a documentary podcast about criminal justice reform. Cara is Associate Director of James Madison University's Center for Civic Engagement and co-host of " Democracy Matters ". Mila is executive producer and host of the civic engagement podcast, " Future Hindsight ". Lee is co-host of " Politics In Question ", a podcast about how our institutions are failing us and ideas for fixing them. A senior fellow at New America, Lee is an author, researcher and political commentator. Jim and Richard also discuss findings of this bonus episode produced for the Democracy Works network that deals with the response to the pandemic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 30, 2020
Covid Crisis: Your Money Matters. Beverly Harzog
Tens of millions of Americans have filed for unemployment benefits since the coronavirus outbreak began. Well over one-in-four people have suffered a moderate or severe financial setback in recent weeks. Consumer confidence is plunging. In this episode we look at the best ways to cope with a sudden drop in income. Beverly Harzog , the personal finance and credit card expert at US News and World Report, is our guest. She's the author of five bestselling personal finance books. From keeping your credit score intact to claiming all the benefits you're entitled to; we look at urgent ways to weather the storm at a time of unprecedented economic crisis. "The safest thing to do with a stimulus check is to put it in your emergency fund just in case you need it for groceries or monthly essentials," says Beverly. We also discuss debt consolidation, controlling impulse buying, and negotiating with credit card companies. Recommendation: Jim has been watching the new remote episodes of Saturday Night Live. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 24, 2020
How To Be a Moral Rebel: Catherine Sanderson
Much of what we took for granted, including daily routines, have been upended during the coronavirus pandemic. At a time when many have new questions about our personal values, traditions and lifestyles, this could be a teachable moment. Social media may have been helpful in convincing people about the need for social distancing, wearing masks and other recent changes. "It really did allow norms to be transmitted very very quickly," says our guest, Amherst College psychology professor Catherine Sanderson. In this episode we also discuss Catherine's research into the psychology of inaction and the themes of her new book, " Why We Act . Turning Bystanders Into Moral Rebels." Why is bad behavior, from sexual harassment to political corruption frequently tolerated? Why do many of us fail to intervene when we're needed? "Moral rebels seem to be comfortable with standing up and calling out bad behavior, even if they're in a group setting in which other people are staying silent. And even when it may be terribly hard to do so for the rest of us," Catherine tells us. Fix It recommendation : Richard is watching "Firing Line With Margaret Hoover" on PBS TV. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 16, 2020
Coronavirus: Learning From Taiwan. Samson Ellis
Everybody is asking, how did the U.S. and most other nations get the coronavirus pandemic so wrong? Taiwan was a rare exception . Health officials and the democratic government of this island state sprang into action in the final days of 2019, and tried to warn the world of COVID danger. Despite being just 80 miles from the coast of China and with a huge amount of travel back and forth to the mainland, Taiwan was remarkably well prepared. The outbreak was kept to a minimum . "Taiwan knows that it is on its own," says our guest, Samson Ellis , Taipei Bureau Chief at Bloomberg News. "It does not have the backup of the World Health Organization or the World Bank... and that's why Taiwan backs itself up and is very cautious when it comes to issues like this." This episode looks at how technology, contract tracing, advance planning, and buy in by citizens all contributed to Taiwan's success. Taiwan's exclusion from the WHO, and a bizarre controversy over the agency's leader is also discussed. Recommendation: Jim is reading the 1971 Annie Dillard Pulitzer-Prize winning novel, Pilgrim at Tinker Creek . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, April 10, 2020
Lessons From a Natural Disaster: Jon Mooallem
The great Alaskan earthquake on Good Friday, March 27th, 1964, was surprising, and the lessons from the response are helpful in understanding how we respond to the COVID pandemic today. "The earthquake overwhelmed people the way the strongest emotions do," wrote our guest, Jon Mooallem recently in The New York Times. "It was pure sensation, coming on faster than the intellect's ability to register it." A big theme of Jon's new book, " This Is Chance! " is how the citizens of Anchorage almost instantly became "a wave of unofficial first responders." Despite officials' fears of panic, looting and violence, many people rose to the occasion, with countless acts of kindness. The crime rate plummeted, just as it has in recent weeks in New York . The story also includes a riveting account of the role played by local KENI radio reporter Genie Chance . The personal messages that she passed on from the local police and fire station spread vital information and helped local citizens make sense of the disaster they were living through. Recommendations: Jim is listening to the music of singer-songwriter, Jon Prine , who died recently of COVID-19. He also recommends the TV miniseries, " Devs ", on FX, written and directed by Alex Garland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 02, 2020
Moving Beyond Fear. Turning Outward. Rich Harwood
The coronavirus pandemic has lead many to fear, panic, anger, profound loneliness and isolation. Realizing that we are all in this crisis together, how can we cope in a more hopeful and creative way? "We need to make a fundamental choice that the only way we get through this is if we act and engage as a community together," says Rich Harwood , President and Founder of The Harwood Institute . His group teaches and coaches people in local communities to move forward by bridging divides and creating a culture of shared responsibility. "The more we step forward to take these kind of actions to reduce polarization and connect with one another, the greater sense of control we will begin to feel again over our ability to shape our lives," says Rich. The Harwood Institute was called in to help the people of Newtown, Connecticut after the mass shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School. The group says in its mission statement that "we bring people on the front lines of creating change in communities to challenge conventional assumptions, learn together, inspire one another and strengthen our collective ability to be a force for good." Recommendations: Richard is listening to the new podcast by Joe Biden . He's also looking forward to Andrew Yang 's forthcoming podcast, "Yang Speaks". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 27, 2020
The Future Always Surprises Us: Mark Earls
Why did the U.S. and most other nations around the world do such a poor job of preparing for and reacting to the global COVID-19 pandemic? After all, we had earlier outbreaks, from HIV-AIDS to SARS, MERS, H1N1 and the Ebola virus. In his widely viewed 2015 Ted Talk , Bill Gates warned that "if anything kills more than ten million people in the next few decades, it's most likely to be a highly infectious virus." We knew about the danger, but failed to act. This episode looks at why humans are so bad at preparing for the future and how we can improve our thinking. Marketing strategist, Mark Earls , has studied behavior change for many years. He's the author of " Herd : How to Change Mass Behavior by Harnessing Our True Nature", and " Copy Copy Copy ". Mark is now writing a new book, "Memories of Our Future." When we plan for what's ahead "we should consider multiple futures", says Mark. This doesn't usually happen, and "we find it much easier to have a simple story about how we got here. We overstate our confidence in the causality." Recommendations: Jim is now reading " Pacific ", by Simon Winchester, a biography of the Pacific Ocean region and its role in the modern world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 20, 2020
Coronavirus: Loving Relationships - Susan Page
Coronavirus has changed all of our lives. We are in the middle of a massive social experiment. This show is first in a series of episodes that will attempt to make sense of the massive psychological, social, economic and political upheaval the pandemic will have on us all. We start this week with loving relationships. Social distancing will physically separate us from friends and family members who don't live in our homes, but it will bring us closer to our spouse, partner and children. How will this challenge our loving relationships? To what extent is this crisis an opportunity to draw closer to those we love? We explore these ideas with Susan Page , a relationship and couples expert. Her Latest book is called “ Why Talking Is Not Enough ”. She says couples are "going to learn skills of tolerance, acceptance and adapting to each other," especially now while we are in isolation. In this episode, recorded in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, we also look at how U.S. and Mexican societies differ in how people interact in public and with their families. Susan has lived in Mexico for years and travels extensively in her role as an art collector, gallerist and Director of the highly regarded San Miguel International Writers' Conference and Literary Festival. This week's reading recommendation: " Rules of Civility ", a novel by Amor Towels. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 12, 2020
Plastic Bag Bans: Bad for the Environment? John Tierney
Bans on plastic bags and straws and expensive campaigns to recycle plastic waste are popular with voters . They give us a sense that the government is acting to protect the environment. Our guest, John Tierney , been a columnist for the New York Times and is a contributor to City Journal. He has been studying wastes and recycling for decades. His conclusion ? “Recycling has turned out to be ruinously expensive, while achieving little or no environmental benefit." John also tells us that “if you think the biggest problem facing the planet is climate change, you shouldn’t be banning plastic grocery bags and causing greenhouse gas emissions to increase.” He argues that bans are distraction from far larger threats to oceans and rivers, such as street litter, dumping trash in the water, and poor waste controls in developing countries. Tierney’s views about the environment are controversial. He proudly calls himself a contrarian who says that just because an idea appeals to a lot of people doesn’t mean that it’s wrong. In our episode, Tierney cites a recent study of plastic bag bans in California in the Journal of Environmental Economics and Management. The research concluded that “the elimination of 40 million pounds of plastic carryout bags is offset by a 12 million pound increase in trash bag purchases.” Other reports say that the amount of plastic in the ocean is “ a lot worse than we thought”, and “ our planet is drowning in plastic pollution.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 05, 2020
We Need Trust More Than Ever: Jerry Michalski
The rapid spread of the coronavirus COVID-19 is a reminder of the vital need for truthful information, co-operation and kindness. Rumors, hype and fear can make a growing crisis much worse than it already is. We decided to re-release an episode from 2019 on the case for trust: Why designing systems that are based on trust can improve public safety, and lead to better economic, social, psychological and educational outcomes. "We’ve internalized the assumption that humans can’t be trusted, and therefore, that we all need to be constrained and coerced into doing the right thing, pretty much all the time," wrote our guest, technology consultant, futurist and thinker Jerry Michalski . And yet, there are examples of systems designed from trust that work surprisingly well. Anyone can edit and make changes to Wikipedia pages. Most of us rely on this open-source online encyclopedia for accurate information. Micro loans go to people of very limited means, who should be terrible credit risks. But their default rates are lower than for conventional loans. Netflix has no limit on vacation time and days off. The only guidance to employees that they act ethically and Netflix’s Best Interests. The international, self-supporting fellowship, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), is also highly successful group that is designed from trust. "It turns out that on average people are more trustworthy than we think they are," says Jerry. "Wikipedia has discovered this as have many, many other kinds of services." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, February 27, 2020
Sanders and Socialism: Emily Chamlee-Wright
Bernie Sanders is the early frontrunner for the Democratic Presidential nomination. In this episode with economist Emily Chamlee-Wright, we look at why support for socialism is on the rise, and where this ideology comes from. According to recent polls of young Americans, ages 18 to 29, they are more likely to have a positive view of socialism than capitalism. Despite socialist economic failures in Venezuela, Africa and Eastern Europe, today's promises of free health care, college loan debt forgiveness, mandatory stock ownership for employees, and guaranteed income look increasingly attractive to numbers of voters in the U.S. "Seriously debating socialism gets us talking about a good society really is and the philosophical, economic and political foundations that underlie it," wrote Emily in The Wall Street Journal. While believing that "competitive and open markets are the answer", Emily she tells us that the debate over socialism allows us to challenge the flawed system of crony capitalism and discuss fundamental moral questions about how our economy is organized. Emily Chamlee-Wright is President and CEO of The Institute for Humane Studies at George Mason University. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, February 20, 2020
How to Open Your Mind: Jerry Taylor
It's rare to meet someone who has re-thought some of his deepest convictions. In this episode, we go on a journey with one of America's leading public intellectuals, Jerry Taylor, President and Founder of the Niskanen Center , who describes himself today as a "radical moderate" who has moved away from the libertarianism of his earlier years. We focus on climate change. Jerry says he used to be a "lukewarmist", but now sees it as an urgent crisis. "The evidence for climate change as a significant, serious problem that requires really aggressive responses has become stronger and stronger over time," he says. Unlike most think tanks, the Niskanen Center (established in 2015) is not tied to any particular ideology, but prides itself in being pragmatic, and working "to advance an open society by active engagement in the war of ideas." An announcement: "How Do We Fix It?" is a member of The Democracy Group, a new network of podcasts about democracy, civic engagement, and civil discourse. Visit democracygroup.org to learn more about member shows and to receive updates about new episodes and playlists. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 14, 2020
Boosting Voter Turnout: Seth Flaxman
Voter turnout is much lower in the U.S. than in many other democracies around the world. In this episode, we look at an innovative initiative to use the internet to boost the number of voters in every election. "Our mission" says the non-profit group Democracy Works "is to make voting a simple, seamless experience for all Americans, so that no one misses an election." A lot of people want to vote but they forget to do it, or they don't get registered to vote. Democracy Works is a team of software developers, policy wonks and civic organizers who say they are working to upgrade the infrastructure of democracy. In this episode, we speak with the non-profit group's CEO and co-founder. Seth Flaxman. "At the end of the day, we think every American is going to want a sort of service like a concierge helping them to vote in all the election," says Seth, "even people who say they never miss elections sign up to get the reminders." This episode is funded with a grant from Solutions Journalism Network as part of " Renewing Democracy ", to encourage reporting about how people and institutions are trying to reinvigorate democracy in communities across the country. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, February 06, 2020
Coronavirus: What We Need to Know. Kylie Carville
With tens of thousands of cases, hundreds of deaths, and no known cure, the new coronavirus that emerged in China has been declared a public health emergency by the World Health Organization. In this episode of “How Do We Fix It?” we look at the world’s response to the rapid spread of the 2019-nCoV virus, consider the best ways to deal with the outbreak, and hear the latest about scientific research into a new vaccine. Infectious diseases epidemiologist Kylie Carville with The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity in Melbourne, Australia, is our guest. She is on the front lines of Australia’s public health response to the virus. “I think we need to be alert, not alarmed in Australia and The United States," Kylie tells us in this exclusive interview. “Every time something happens, we learn and are better prepared for the next time.” “We will have to wait and see” if it becomes a global pandemic , she says. “We are seeing some degree of transmission outside of China, but at this point, the cases are all linked to someone who has come back and been ill.” Recommendations: Richard, now traveling in Australia, has been reading " A Shorter History of Australia " by Geoffrey Blainey, and " The Fatal Shore ", by Robert Hughes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, January 30, 2020
The Two-Party Doom Loop - Lee Drutman
The Iowa caucuses and forthcoming Presidential primary season are another reminder that the two big parties have a stranglehold on American politics. But it doesn’t have to be this way. More voters identify as independents than as Republicans or Democrats. Our guest, Lee Drutman , senior fellow at New America and author of “ Breaking the Two-Party Doom Loop ”, makes the case for a multiparty system, which, he says, would boost compromise, problem-solving, voter turnout and confidence in the political process. “To try to shoehorn a country this diverse and sprawling into just two parties to me is insanity,” Lee tells us. “It creates an us-against-them zero-sum mentality every political election." We discuss solutions, including ranked choice voting, multi-seat congressional districts, and expanding representation in the House of Representatives. This episode is part of our renewing democracy series, covering constructive proposals for improving our politics and civic infrastructure. We received a grant from Solutions Journalism Network . Subscribe to our newsletter here . Share “How Do We Fix It?” with friends. Engage with us on Twitter and Facebook . Be part of our solutions community. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, January 23, 2020
Detroit. Bankruptcy and Broken Promises: Jodie Adams Kirshner
When Detroit went bust in 2013 it was the largest municipal bankruptcy filing in American history. During the Motor City's fifty years of decline, population fell from nearly 2 million people to just under 700,000. Today, Motown is on the rebound. Media reports called the restructuring of massive debt by a partnership between city and state government, business leaders and the philanthropic community a " stunning success ." In this episode we look at what still needs to be done to improve the lives of residents who live with high crime rates, under-funded schools, and a devastating landscape of abandoned properties. Jodie Adams Kirshner, author of " Broke: Hardship and Resilience in a City of Broken Dreams " is our guest. She investigates the impact of job losses, cuts in state aid and limited resources, closely following the lives of seven Detroiters. We discuss with her what bankruptcy can and cannot do to solve the problems of cities facing underfunded pension liabilities and other forms of distress. Jodie is a research professor at New York University. Previously a law professor at Cambridge University, she also served as the deputy director of the Cambridge Center for Corporate and Commercial Law. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, January 16, 2020
Want Consensus? Try Convergence: Rob Fersh
All too often news headlines and social media are dominated by disasters, wrongdoing and fear mongering: All the stuff that’s going wrong. How can we nurture the positive side of human nature? Renewing democracy will be impossible unless we start to rebuild trust in each other. The Convergence Center for Policy Resolution uses deep knowledge and proven methodology to connect people, policymakers and political organizations from different backgrounds and beliefs, helping them work together and co-operate. Our guest is Rob Fersh , the non-profit group's Founder and President. "Convergence works to bring together people who can make a difference in big national policy issues," Rob tells us. "Our goal is to include a wide diversity of views, because the product, if we get agreement, is going to be all the stronger." This week's reading, viewing and listening recommendations on the show from Richard and Jim : - Novels by Paulette Jiles - " News of the World " and " The Color of Lightning. " - Podcasts about country and roots music: " Cocaine and Rhinestones " with Tyler Mahan Coe, and " America Podcast: The 51st State " with Robert Earl Kean. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, January 09, 2020
Iran After Suleimani: 7 Ways to View The Crisis
The U.S. drone strike that killed Iranian general Qassem Suleimani sparked immediate fears of war. The risks of a disastrous miscalculation are obvious, from goading Iran into speeding up its nuclear weapons program, to a forced withdrawal of American forces from Iraq and the re-emergence of ISIS. But the audacious attack against Iran's most experienced military strategist may weaken the regime and force Iranian leaders to curb their aggression. Both may viewed as significant achievements. "Iran appears to be standing down," said President Trump , five days after the killing. In this episode, Jim and Richard discuss seven tools that help us understand the significance of what happened. They include: Watch out for scare tactics by both sides of the debate; Don't take mass protests at face value; Read a broad range of opinions from different sources; Beware of simple answers; Understand the wisdom of "I don't know", and just because Trump acted doesn't mean he was wrong. Neither Richard nor Jim are experts on the Middle East, and they can't predict how this crisis will change the world. But as longtime journalists, they are experts at how to organize information and do research. This week's recommendations: Both Jim and Richard often read editorials and opinion pieces by writers they disagree with. Jim pays attention to the left-wing magazine, Mother Jones and the progressive writer Matt Taibbi , while Richard's daily read includes the editorials in The Wall Street Journal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, December 26, 2019
2020: Celebrating Collaborations and Sharing
If independent podcasts are to prosper and survive in this era of growing commercialization, big media, and multi-million dollar podcast investments, we need to grow our community: Share, collaborate and promote groups, individuals and podcasters who share many of our goals. In this first "How Do We Fix It?" episode of 2020, we include recent interviews with leaders and supporters of Bridge Alliance , Civic Hall , Heterodox Academy , Solutions Journalism Network and Listen First Project . We support their efforts to strengthen democracy, boost curiosity, find constructive solutions and emphasize the positive. We've included clips from our 2019 interviews with Debilyn Molineaux , Arthur Brooks , Micah Sifry , Jodie Jackson and Pearce Godwin . As we celebrate collaboration and sharing, we also want to give a shout-out to three more vital groups that we will be working with in 2020: The McCourtney Institute for Democracy at Penn State University, Common Ground Committee, and New Books Network . All are working hard to promote the work of those who seek to make the world a better place. This week's recommendations from Jim and Richard... Book to read: " The Years That Matter Most " by Paul Tough. NiemanLab blog: " Podcasting Unsilences the Silent " by Joni Deutsch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/priv
Thu, December 19, 2019
Two Threats to Democracy: Conspiracies & China
Liberal democracy, free speech and freedom of the press are under attack in many parts of the world. Two of the most insidious threats are from conspiracy theories and the growing global reach of China's dictatorship. In this episode we discuss two interviews from " Democracy Works ", a podcast series from The McCourtney Institute at Penn State University about what it means to live in a democracy. Larry Diamond, author of the 2019 book, " Ill Winds: Saving Democracy from Russian Rage, Chinese Ambition and American Complacency " discusses the threat China's model of authoritarian capitalism poses to democracy in the United States and around the world. The Chinese government is using its growing military, technological, and economic to change the direction of the world. Conspiracies are becoming increasingly prominent in the public discourse. Democracy Scholars Democracy scholars Russell Muirhead and Nancy Rosenblum call the current version “conspiracy without the theory” and unpack the concept in their book " A Lot of People Are Saying: The New Conspiracism and the Assault on Democracy." In this episode Jim and Richard discuss the ideas raised in both sets of interviews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, December 11, 2019
How to Fight Anti-Semitism" Bari Weiss
Anti-semitism is on the rise in the U.S. and other parts of the world. Jews are the targets. Democracy and free speech are also among the casualties. 6 people died this week in Jersey City, New Jersey, in a shootout at a kosher supermarket. The two gunmen appear to have been motivated by anti-semitism and anger against the police. Britain's Labour Party has been rocked by widespread reports of anti-semitism. Labor's second most powerful leader has apologized to the Jewish community and admits the controversy may affect the result of this week's U.K. election. Our guest in this episode of "How Do We Fix It?" is Bari Weiss , an opinion writer at The New York Times, who covers culture and politics. We discuss her new book, " How to Fight Anti-Semitism ." "When anti-semitism is rising it is the number one sign that a society is dying or maybe is already dead," Bari tells us. "The proximate victims are Jews themselves, but the bigger and overlooked victim, if you look at history, is the surrounding society." Bari mentions this article by the anti-racist scholar and activist Eric Ward: "Skin in the Game. How Anti-Semitism Animates White Nationalism." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, December 06, 2019
How Technology Could Save the Environment: Ted Nordhaus
Many environmentalists believe that the world needs to use less energy, end the focus on economic growth, and return to a simpler lifestyle. The Breakthrough Institute argues the opposite. In this episode, we look at the ecomodernist movement that promotes technological solutions to environmental and human development challenges. Ted Nordhaus is a leading global thinker on energy, environment, climate, human development, and politics. He is the founder and executive director of the Breakthrough Institute and a co-author of An Ecomodernist Manifesto. Reducing carbon emissions "matters and is important not necessarily for human survival, but for a world that I would like to leave for future generations," Ted tells us. "Bio-diversity... tropical rainforests and savannahs: I care about all of those things, and the debate with environmentalists is how you get them." The Breakthrough Institute offers a different kind of framework for thinking about climate change. We discuss solutions in this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, November 28, 2019
The Power of Play: Lucy Crehan, Tamara Mose
Many of us are spending much of the Thanksgiving holiday with the children we love. In this episode we consider vital role of play, and what it does to expand a child's creativity and resilience. Urban sociologist Tamara Mose is an Associate Professor at Brooklyn College, and author of " The Playdate : Parents, Children and the New Expectations of Play." She tells us about the strengths and perils of playdates, and the need for children to have unstructured play. Educational consultant and teacher, Lucy Crehan, is the author of " Cleverlands ", an exploration of the lessons learned from the world's top-performing education systems. Her research also highlights the importance of play in the learning process. In Finland, where math and reading scores are among the highest in the world, "they don't start education formally until seven-years-old," says Lucy. Instead of meeting academic targets in kindergarten or first grade, "they're focusing on a much broader educational and social development before they start formal learning." Solutions discussed include: The need for diversity during playdates and in children's lives, and the developmental role played by unsupervised play. The importance of high academic expectations for older children, and the creative role of play during the school year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, November 22, 2019
Radical Health. Ivelyse Andino
Published: November 21st, 2019 “Tech For The Public Good” is supported by a grant from Solutions Journalism Network . Technology is a double-edged sword. Despite well-publicized threats from bots, hackers, government spooks and huge online firms with their invasive algorithms, tech is often a force for public good. In this special episode, we report on an innovative local effort to promote better healthcare for those who need it most: the residents of America's poorest Congressional District : New York's 15th CD in The Bronx. Ivelyse Andino , founder and CEO of Radical Health , a minority-owned, Bronx-based health equity social enterprise that uses technology, an app powered by artificial intelligence, and community conversations to help black and brown pregnant women and new mothers understand their health care rights, build trust and develop self advocacy. According to US government statistics, black women are up to six times more likely to die from complications of pregnancy than white women. "The US is ranked as one of the most dangerous countries in the world to give birth if you are a black or brown woman," says Ivelyse. She compares the healthcare system to a MacDonalds. "You're in you're out. Here is all the things you need or you think you need and have at it." Ivelyse was born and raised in The Bronx. She enjoyed a career in health tech, and trained oncologists on new drugs. Her life took a dramatic turn when her mother was diagnosed with cancer, which forced her to personally confront systematic disparities and failings of the healthcare system. While reporting this episode we also spoke with several outstanding activists including Kaniya Samm who is a community organizer; and Alexis Del Rio, the co-founder of Bronx Móvil, a bilingual mobile harm reduction program. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, November 15, 2019
Civility Won't Save America: Reed Galen
30 years ago this month the Berlin Wall came down, and Richard was there, reporting the story for ABC News. In those heady days of November, 1989, there was tremendous hope for the future of liberal democracy. In the next few years, most of Eastern Europe would emerge from the shackles of totalitarian communism. But today, populism and nativism are on the rise in much of the world. Democratic institutions, civic norms, and a free press are all facing new challenges. We speak with public affairs and political consultant Reed Galen, and look at whether the case for greater civility is overshadowed by the need to push back hard against the populists, and those who sneer at compromise, tolerance, reason, flexibility and other vital pillars of a functioning democracy. "The Democrats are playing chess and Trump's eating the pieces," says Reed, who resigned from the Republican Party in 2016. "He will take your civility and squash you with it." Further thoughts from Reed on civility here . With this episode we start a new feature: Jim and Richard Recommend. We lift the curtain on what we're listening to, reading and watching. - Music: Singer-songwriter Belinda Carlisle. - Movie: " Parasite " by Korean director Joon Ho Bong. - Books: " Ill Winds : Saving Democracy From Russian Rage, Chinese Ambition and American Complacency by Larry Diamond, and " Golden Rice : The Imperiled Birth of a GMO Superfood" by Ed Regis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, November 07, 2019
How We Really Change Our Minds - Eleanor Gordon-Smith
With today's furious political and cultural divisions, it's easy to shake our heads in exasperation at those who disagree with us. In this episode with Australian writer and philosopher, Eleanor Gordon-Smith , we take a journey to the limits of human reason. Her compelling new book, " Stop Being Reasonable. How We Really Change Our Minds," features six high-stakes personal stories of successful persuasion that illustrate what most of us get wrong about rationality. "Hearing the story of how somebody changes their mind is hearing the story of how they change their life," Eleanor tells us. "Why, when we know that changing our minds is as tangled and difficult and messy as we are, do we stay so wedded to the thought that rational debate is the way to go about it?" The book and our podcast begin with Eleanor interviewing men who catcalled her in the street and made obscene gestures. Did she convince these guys to change their behavior? Find out what happened... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, October 31, 2019
Understanding Brexit: Jill Rutter
Confused by Brexit? This episode looks back over the last 40 months since the shocking result of the Brexit referendum , when UK voters decided to leave the EU. We sort through the mess and misconceptions. The political drama contains several acts: A December election has been called, and a new Brexit deal was reached in late October by Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Union member states. But well over three years after the referendum, the UK Parliament has yet to agree to the terms of withdrawal. The December 12 vote could bring more confusion, with no party winning an overall majority. One the biggest hurdles is deciding what kind of Brexit voters actually want. For this episode, Richard traveled to London and spoke with Jill Rutter, senior research at the non-partisan think tank, UK in a Changing Europe. She writes frequently about Brexit and the UK's evolving relationship with the EU. "The Prime Minister is very keen to be able to say he's got Brexit done," says Jill. But even though he has surprised people by being able to conclude a withdrawal agreement, he really hasn't got Brexit done." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 25, 2019
Fixing Government and Democracy: David Meyers
American democracy is in a moment of crisis. A new Gallup poll , released in late October, says a near-record-high 34% of Americans cite the government, poor leadership or politicians as the most important problem currently facing the U.S. In this episode, we look at the work of a new online news site, The Fulcrum , which is focused exclusively on efforts to reverse the dysfunctions plaguing American democracy. "Our goal is to raise the level of awareness so people can understand what's wrong with the political system, and how they may go about getting involved to help make it better," says David Meyers , publisher and executive editor of The Fulcrum. We look at the controversy over voting rights, access to polling, the role of money in the American political system, gerrymandering, and how a group of volunteer hackers broke into all 100 voting machines they went after. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 18, 2019
Celebrating Nuance: Meghan Daum
Modern thought has been damaged by dogma and tribalistic click-bait. Social media and the fractured state of politics reward slick slogans and partisan anger while penalizing those who speak with intellectual honesty. Our guest, feminist writer and author, Meghan Daum , says instead of following the crowd we need to think for ourselves. While very supportive of the goals of the women's movement, she is also critical of the excesses of modern feminism. In this episode she makes the case for nuance and feeling conflicted about our own opinions. "I always say to my students, if you're not conflicted you're either lying to yourself or you're not very smart," she says. Meghan is the author of " The Problem With Everything : A Journey Through The New Culture Wars". Her witty and rigorous new book is a personal account of "the conflicted and tortured state of liberalism generally and feminism in particular. But it is also a personal story of feeling existentially unmoored against the backdrop of a country falling apart." Meghan Daum is also a contributor to Medium. Her article, "Nuance: A Love Story" is here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, October 10, 2019
"Listen First & Democracy" Pearce Godwin
American democracy is in crisis, with a coarsening of our national conversation and an erosion of public trust that threatens the guardrails of self-government. Many citizens feel dislocated, disempowered and believe that remote institutions and government don't listen to their needs and interests. One way to bridge divides is to listen to a broader range of opinions, from people not like you. Our guest is Pearce Godwin , founder and CEO of Listen First Project, which has 250 partner organizations who have joined the #ListenFirst movement as well as the thousands who have signed the Listen First Pledge . Listen First sounds like a moderate idea, but "I think it really is radical," Pearce tells "How Do We Fix It?" Coming to conversations "with a spirit of curiosity is what will bring us to a place in which we are learning from one another and building greater connections, as opposed to throwing grenades and tearing each other apart." The four key ingredients of a listen first conversation include listening to understand, being curious, suspending judgement, and maximizing a diversity of perspectives. More tips here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, October 03, 2019
We Need Better Leaders! Davia Temin & Stephen Miles
The furore over the decision by House Democrats to launch a formal impeachment investigation into President Trump will be the subject of heated debate for many months. In this episode we take a deeper look at leadership, and why good leaders are so vital to the future of our democracy, and for all organizations-- large and small. "In times of turmoil this is even more important," says our guest, Davia Temin , a highly experienced crisis manager, and leadership and communications coach. "Leadership is particularly important right now, because we are living in a very muddy universe." In business and non-profit organizations, highly successful leaders have learned vital lessons about strategy, communication and ethics. We hear from Stephen Miles , a widely respected leadership coach and top-level succession planning executive. His deep understanding of what makes great leaders is featured in The Miles Group podcast series, " C-Suite Intelligence: Leadership Lessons From Coaches to the World's Top Performing Executives." This episode includes several extracts. Listen to the whole series, hosted by Richard Davies, here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, September 27, 2019
Dementia: Memory and Forgetting: Nicci Gerrard
Dementia provokes profound moral questions about our society and the meaning of life itself. How much are we connected to one another? In what ways are we distant and separated? What does it mean to have a self? How can we offer dignity to those who suffer from Alzheimer's and other forms of this terrible disease? Worldwide around 50 million people have dementia. The US Centers for Disease Control estimates that the U.S. total is more than five million. The numbers are growing with the aging of the population. The incidence of Alzheimers increased more than 50% in the pst 15 years. People over the age of 85 are the largest growing share of the population. British journalist and author Nicci Gerrard is our guest. Her father's long struggle with dementia led Nicci to investigate what the disease does to those who live with it and to their caregivers. She writes with deep wisdom, kindness and empathy in her new book, " The Last Ocean A Journey Through Memory and Forgetting." In modern, developed nations, "we so value being young, healthy, vigorous, successful, purposeful, and autonomous," says Nicci. "In dementia all these things gradually unravel." Following her father's death in 2014, Nicci Gerrard cofounded John's Campaign , which seeks to make care more compassionate for those who are vulnerable and powerless. In this episode, we discuss her journey, what's she learned, and ways to improve dementia care, including the need for open an unrestricted visiting hours at hospitals-- still a controversial topic -- and dementia villages , a fairly new way to help people with memory loss improve quality of life. Here's a link to more information about Nicci's work and her book. <p style='color:grey; font-size:
Fri, September 20, 2019
Immigration Facts -- Not Emotion. Andrew Selee
With harsh rhetoric from President Trump, who wants strict new limits on refugees, asylum seekers and some other forms of immigration, to calls by several Democratic Presidential candidates to decriminalize all border crossings, the immigration debate is increasingly dominated by slogans rather than substance. Hopes for a comprehensive and humane overhaul of U.S. immigration law have all but disappeared for now. "The reality is illegal immigration has come to be THE conversation, says our guest, Andrew Selee, President of the non-partisan Migration Policy Institute, which seeks to improve immigration policies through fact-based research. "Most immigration in the United States is legal immigration," he says. "What we're not talking about is that most people are legal immigrants, and that most people are coming Asia, rather than Latin America." Also, he says: "immigrants on average have a higher education level than native-born Americans, which is something few of us realize." In this episode, we unpack the myths about migration and look at potential solutions-- including ways to speed up the backlog of asylum cases, the benefits of a more merit-based system of legal immigration, and a path to legal residency for many of the millions of undocumented people now living in the United States. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, September 12, 2019
Kids Aren't Fragile! Lenore Skenazy
Kids are smart, strong, and at least as capable as their parents were at their age. So, when the crime rate is at a 50-year-low, why does society insist on bubble-wrapping them? Why are we encouraged to protect children from minor cases of physical or mental discomfort? Why don’t we trust them to do things safely or successfully on their own? These questions about raising kids are tackled in this episode of "How Do We Fix It?" We consider practical solutions for parents and schools. "Treating kids as physically and emotionally fragile is bad for their future, and ours," says our guest, Lenore Skenazy , founder of Free Range Kids and President of Let Grow, a group that helps schools set-up unstructured free play before and after school hours. A recent study published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology found that rates of depression among teenagers rose nearly 60% since 2009. The number of young people seen in emergency rooms who had attempted suicide or reported having suicidal thoughts doubled between 2007 and 2015. "What Let Grow is trying to do is change behavior, because once a parent sees a kid do something independently...the parents are so overjoyed with seeing their kid blossoming they are rewired," says Lenore. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, September 05, 2019
Risk: An Economist Walks Into a Brothel. Allison Schrager
From dating to switching jobs and managing retirement. We all manage risk. Want to get better at it? The best way to learn is to ask some of the real experts: Magicians, gamblers, big-wave surfers, horse breeders, and prostitutes. That's what economist, journalist and risk advisor Allison Schrager did. She's our guest in this episode. For people faced with risky decisions every day, making the right choices can be the difference between success or failure, and in some cases, life and death. Allison is the author of the new book " An Economist Walks Into a Brothel : And Other Unexpected Places to Learn About Risk." She visited Nevada's Moonlight Bunny Ranch brothel, hung out with paparazzi who stalked celebrities, spoke with movie makers in Hollywood, and went to a risk conference for surfers in Hawaii as part of her extensive research for the book. We learn basic lessons about human psychology as well as hedging, diversification, leverage and insurance. "You take risks to get what you want in life, and you're never going to get what you want without taking risks," says Allison. An Oscar Award-winning documentary is mentioned: " Free Solo ," about Alex Honnold's attempt to become the first person to climb the face of America's most famous rock, the 3,000ft El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, without a rope. Also, learn more about Allison's firm, LifeCycle Finance Partners . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, August 29, 2019
The Threat From China: Elizabeth Economy
A trade war with China is a growing threat to U.S. influence and the global economy. What began more than a year ago with President Trump’s decision to impose tariffs has become an unpleasant economic reality for many American businesses. Recently, the U.S. labeled China a “ currency manipulator. ” But Perhaps, an even larger long-term threat comes China’s aggressive espionage offensive that is playing out in behind-the-scenes as of the U.S. and China struggle for global dominance. Our guest is Elizabeth Economy , a senior fellow and director of Asia studies at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York. Her most recent book, “The Third Revolution: Xi Jinpeng and the New Chinese State”, explains the background to recent dramatic changes inside China. She is among a distinguished group of China specialists who once favored engagement with Beijing, but are now calling for the United States to take a more forceful approach as China attempts to undermine democratic values. "Managing this relationship is essential," says Elizabeth. "It cannot allowed to it to spiral down too far." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, August 22, 2019
Rising Risks of Recession: Diana Henriques
Is the U.S. economy about to fall off a cliff? Declining growth, financial market jitters, and a growing rift between the U.S. and China are all fueling fears of a recession. For the first time in 12 years, since shortly before the last recession, interest rate yields on 10-year government notes are lower than for short-term loans. This inverted yield curve is highly unusual and the latest sign that a sharp slowdown could happen soon. "The inverted yield curve has accurately predicted seven out of the last seven recessions in the past half century, says our guest, award-winning financial journalist and best-selling author Diana Henriques . In this episode we look at the risks of a recession and constructive ways to handle it. These include: - "A calming voice from the cockpit." The need for wise leadership and strong communication skills from The White House. - Experienced financial regulators who know what to do in a crisis. - Greater attention from big business to the needs of stakeholders, not just shareholders. "A modern economy and financial system plugged in to global financial systems is a complex, delicate machine," says Diana. What's needed is "somebody watching it that knows what they're doing... how to explain what's happening and what plans they have to explain it to the public in a way that's credible and understandable." Protecting yourself in case of a recession... link. More on Diana Henriques books and media engagements... here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, August 15, 2019
The Case for Trust - Jerry Michalski
We live in a time of suspicion and mistrust. What is this costing all of us in lost productivity, creativity and shared humanity? Isn't there a better way to design our organizations and systems? A recent Pew Research poll found that a majority of Americans believe that most people just look out for themselves, and that they would take advantage of you if they got the chance. "We’ve internalized the assumption that humans can’t be trusted, and therefore, that we all need to be constrained and coerced into doing the right thing, pretty much all the time," wrote our guest, technology consultant, futurist and thinker Jerry Michalski , in a recent blog post. And yet, there are examples of systems designed from trust that work surprisingly well. - Anyone can edit and make changes to Wikipedia pages. Most of us rely on this open-source online encyclopedia for accurate information. - Micro loans go to people of very limited means, who should be terrible credit risks. But their default rates are lower than for conventional loans. - Netflix has no limit on vacation time and days off. The only guidance to employees that they act ethically and Netflix’s Best Interests. - The international, self-supporting fellowship, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), is also highly successful group that is designed from trust. "It turns out that on average people are more trustworthy than we think they are," says Jerry. "Wikipedia has discovered this as have many, many other kinds of services." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, August 09, 2019
Mass Shootings: After El Paso & Dayton
Most of America's deadliest mass killings have happened within the last ten years. The deaths of more than 30 people in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio, have led to renewed demands for federal background checks and gun violence restraining orders, or "red flag" laws. America is also facing a growing crisis of violent extremism and white nationalist terrorism. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies are under pressure to expand their investigations. In testimony before Congress, FBI Director Christopher Wray, said white supremacy poses a “persistent” and “pervasive” threat to the United States. In this episode, we look at a range of solutions, with the understanding that no single proposal is likely to lead to a dramatic reduction in domestic terrorism, mass shootings, gun homicides, or racial hatred. We hear from James Burnett , Editorial Director of The Trace, an independent news site that covers America's gun violence crisis. He explains that the U.S. has the highest homicide rate among all industrialized countries, but that only 2% of all deaths are in mass shootings. Critics of President Trump say his harsh language and repeated claims of an "hispanic invasion" have contributed to fear and violence. Bob Spitz , author of “Reagan: An American Journey” tells us about some important lessons to be learned from President Reagan’s style of leadership. And we repeat part of Gregg Easterbrook 's argument on "How Do We Fix It?" that pretending everything is awful, when many things for most people have never been better, "keeps Americans in an endless state of depression and anxiety, preventing reforms such as gun regulation". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, August 01, 2019
Rebuilding The Social Contract: Debilyn Molineaux
Our democracy has become a punching bag. From Russian hacking and hate-filled tweets, to demands for impeachment and increasingly nasty political infighting, our public conversation is increasingly narrow, dispiriting and disempowering. According to Pew Research, trust in government is near historic lows . Most Americans believe that declining trust in our public institutions and in each other make it harder to solve key problems. A new poll says 75% of Americans say trust in government is shrinking, while 64% say this is also true for each other-- suggesting we have become more fearful and suspicious. Our guest, Debilyn Molineaux , Executive Director and co-founder of Bridge Alliance , says it's time to restore the nation's social contract. Her organization works to transform the political process by finding new and effective ways to bridge divides in our politics and among our families and local communities. Find out more in this episode. Bridge Alliance has more than 80 member organizations. Including All Sides, Common Good, headed by Philip K Howard, Living Room Conversations, Citizen University and Unite America… All groups we’ve interviewed on “How Do We Fix It?” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 26, 2019
Disaster for Democrats? Daniel Akst
President Trump's tweets that four minority Democratic congresswomen should “ go back ” to the countries they came from, and chants of " send her back " at his rally in North Carolina provoked outrage and disgust from his critics. American politics appear trapped in a spiral of toxic fury, and this angry mix may precisely match the pugilistic President's preference as he wades into the 2020 campaign. Our guest, opinion writer and author, Daniel Akst argues that Trump's clear, simple story on the economy, trade with China, and immigration that may appeal to many voters. Despite the President's negative poll ratings, and a chaotic White House, Democrats are having a miserable summer, with a stumbling frontrunner and the rise of the hard left. "They have found themselves in reaction to this horrible man moving ever further from any constraints on immigration of any kind, says Daniel. "I don't think that will play with the voters." We discuss the crisis, look for solutions, and consider whether the quality of debate will improve when the Democrats pick their nominee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 12, 2019
Technology for Public Good: Micah Sifry
Social media is under fire for how it threatens our society, our politics, even our mental health. Facebook, Google, Twitter and other tech giants are criticized for spying on us and using secret algorithms to push us toward extreme views. Civic Hall is a key player in a growing movement to use technology to better the world-- what people are calling "civic tech". Our guest, Micah Sifry , co-founder and President of Civic Hall , is a longtime advocate for transparency, better government, and using tech for social change. "The problems that we face as a society are not going to be solved by tech alone," he says. Most of the problem-solving work that we see and support at Civic Hall is, at most, 20% tech and 80% social." In this episode we highlight the work of several groups, including Code For America , which is on a mission to make government work in the digital age, and Ushahidi, an organization that builds tools to solve the world's biggest humanitarian and international development challenges. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, July 01, 2019
Character, Soul & the University: David Brooks
Colleges and universities can play a virtual role in the moral, intellectual and spiritual development of a student’s life. But there is a growing mismatch between the culture of many campuses, and the challenges young people will face in their careers, politics and personal lives. Author and columnist David Brooks suggested solutions in his stirring speech, “How a University Shaped My Soul”, given at the recent annual conference of Heterodox Academy . He spoke about the life lessons he learned as an undergraduate at The University of Chicago. “Our professors taught us intellectual courage. There is no such thing as thinking for yourself,” he said. “Even the words we think with are collective things, and most of us don’t think for truth, we think for bonding.” Brooks surprised his audience by praising students who challenge their professors, saying “on balance, it’s a good thing.” Since 2003, David Brooks has been an op-Ed columnist at The New York Times. He is an executive director at the Aspen Institute, a commentator on PBS Newshour, and author of the new book, “ The Second Mountain. " Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, June 20, 2019
Catholic Church Sex Abuse Crisis: Maggi Van Dorn
Will the Catholic Church's sexual abuse crisis ever end? Nearly 18 years since the Boston Globe's Spotlight investigation 's shocking revelations, U.S. bishops and The Vatican still struggle to hold the church fully accountable for decades of criminal wrongdoing. Last year's Pennsylvania Grand Jury Report revealed that over 1,000 children had been abused by Catholic priests across six dioceses over seven decades. A new Pew Research Survey finds that a large majority of American Catholics think abuse by clergy is still happening. This episode looks at the crisis from a unique perspective. Maggi Van Dorn , a Catholic committed to healing the Church from the inside, hosts "Deliver Us" , a frank and remarkable series of podcasts that spoke with survivors of abuse, advocates and church experts. "The Church is marred in a really ugly way," Maggi tells us. "As a member of this family, it's really incumbent on me to work for reform." We discuss solutions, such as the Dallas Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, the campaign to get justice for survivors, calls for greater transparency, and a stronger role for women in the leadership of the Church. Listen to "Deliver Us" here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, June 13, 2019
Dignity & Respect in Back Row America: Chris Arnade
A lot of politicians like to say that there are “two Americas,” but do any of them know what life is really like for the marginalized poor? We speak with journalist and photographer, Chris Arnade , about the forgotten towns and people of back row America. In 2011, Chris left a high-powered job as a bond trader on Wall Street, hit the road, and spent years documenting the lives of poor people, driving 150 thousand miles around the U.S. His new book is "Dignity: Seeking Respect in Back Row America." In his many columns in The Guardian , Chris writes about broken social systems that have betrayed poor people on the margins of society. He speaks to us about drug addicts and prostitutes he met, and their faith, resilience and ties to community. "I think if I had one suggestion to policy people, it would be get out of your bubble," says Chris. "I think when you blame a group of people for their behavior, without addressing the situation they find themselves in, then you are doing it wrong." In this episode we explore the stark division between elite, globalized "front row kids" in the media and knowledge industries, and most of the poor and working-class people in the back row. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, June 06, 2019
What's Wrong With Social Media: Glenn Reynolds
"Twitter is like the crystal meth of social media," says our guest, University of Tennessee Law Professor, Glenn Reynolds, founder of the popular political blog, Instapundit. Twitter "is addictive and ultimately unsatisfying." In this episode we look at why social media is poisoning our politics, journalism and relationships by stoking anger, fear, hyper-partisanship and distrust of others. We ask: "how do we fix it?" "Social media is addictive by design. The companies involved put tremendous amounts of thought and effort into making it that way, so that people will be glued to their screens," writes Glenn in his new book, " The Social Media Upheaval ." In our podcast, he cites the work of Columbia University Professor Tim Wu, author of " The Curse of Bigness ", who warns about the dangers of excessive corporate and industrial concentration. Glenn is sympathetic to calls to break up social media giants and reign in their political and commercial power. Among other solutions discussed are greater transparency, such as publishing details of algorithms used by Twitter, Facebook, Google and other big internet firms to keep us on their sites. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 31, 2019
Climate Change Politics: Bob Inglis
Climate change has never been a leading issue in a Presidential election campaign-- until now. A recent poll found that 82% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning voters said it’s “very important” that their party’s nominee supports taking “aggressive action” to reduce the effects of climate change. 2020 could be the climate election. All of the leading Democratic candidates are calling for legislative action, and even many leading Republicans are changing their messaging and how they discuss pollution and the impact on climate. But the environmental politics can cut both ways. While the recent European Parliament election results were a win for green parties, Australia's conservative Prime Minister Scott Morrison won a surprise victory , while resisting calls to sharply reduce carbon emissions and coal production. In this episode, we revisit our interview with for GOP Member of Congress Bob Inglis , who argues that while Donald Trump and fellow Republicans are part of the problem, they must be part of any solution . This small-government Christian conservative from South Carolina believes in a free-market answer to climate change. He supports a revenue-neutral carbon tax, combined with a cut in FICA - the fee paid by workers to pay for Social Security and Medicare. We are launching a Patreon supporters account. Please send us your thoughts about goodies we should offer and what you think is important about the show. Email daviescontent@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 24, 2019
Taking Socialism Seriously: Emily Chamlee-Wright
Support for socialism is surprisingly strong, especially among young Americans, ages 18-29. According to recent polls , they are more likely to have a positive view of socialism than capitalism. Despite socialist economic failures in Venezuela, Africa and Eastern Europe, today's promises of free health care, college loan debt forgiveness, mandatory stock ownership for employees, and guaranteed income look increasingly attractive to a large group of voters in the U.S. "Seriously debating socialism gets us talking about a good society really is and the philosophical, economic and political foundations that underlie it," wrote economist Emily Chamlee-Wright this month in The Wall Street Journal. While believing that "competitive and open markets are the answer", Emily tells us in this episode that the debate over socialism allows us to challenge the flawed system of crony capitalism and discuss fundamental moral questions about how our economy is organized. Emily Chamlee-Wright is President and CEO of The Institute for Humane Studies at George Mason University. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, May 17, 2019
Human Rights Emergency: Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein
Human rights have rarely been at greater risk. President Trump and other world leaders are conspicuously silent about torture, the suppression of press freedom and threats to democracy. For the first time in many decades, the U.S. is led by a President who routinely praises foreign dictators, and rarely speaks up for democratic institutions. From the imprisonment of journalists in Turkey and Egypt, widespread torture and killings in Syria, to probable genocide in Myanmar and the murder of Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi, the worst human rights offenders are able to act with complete impunity. Today's heads of government are "morally weak, shortsighted, mediocre, and no longer willing or able to defend human rights," says this week's "How Do We Fix It?" guest, Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein , the former U.N. Human Rights chief. We find out why it wasn't always this way. In this episode, we look at the need for greater media coverage of human rights, and learn more about some of the world's bravest defenders of the oppressed, including U.N. humanitarian staff who are on the ground in some of the world's most dangerous and difficult places. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, May 09, 2019
Artificial Intelligence Threatens Democracy: Steve Feldstein
Is modern technology a force for good or evil? In many countries, digital repression, often powered by artificial intelligence, is a direct threat to freedom and the relationship between citizen and state. China has begun using AI to weaponize social media and mass surveillance in ways that give the Communist government incredible control over what Chinese citizens say and do—and even how they think The Road to Digital Unfreedom : How Artificial Intelligence Is Reshaping Repression" is the title of a groundbreaking research paper in the Journal of Democracy by Steven Feldstein , former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor. Steve is a Professor at Boise State University and our guest for this episode. "What's surprising to me is just how a few governments are using surveillance to get inside almost every kind of action they might be interested in from certain individuals," Steve tells us. We discuss the coordinated use in China's Xianjong province of DNA readers, facial recognition images, and wifi "sniffers" that can look into laptops and mobile phones. Steve discusses the role of U.S. tech companies in spreading surveillance technology and why this may be a threat to democracy and human rights around the world. Link to article: "How Artificial Intelligence Systems Could Threaten Democracy." Link to article: "Half of the U.S. is Registered in Police Facial Recognition Databases, and They're Completely Unregulated." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, May 02, 2019
Country Over Party: Nick Troiano
Angry rhetoric, narrow partisanship, and leaders who appeal only to their base are all reasons why American politics is in urgent need of reform. By huge majorities , the public has a negative view of Congress and believes the system is broken. Our guest, 29-year-old Nick Troiano, Executive Director of Unite America , is a leading voice of the reform movement, who supports changes aimed at reducing gridlock, boosting voter participation, and finding common ground. "We are caught in a democracy that is spiraling in a very negative direction and the question before us is how do we break that," Nick tells us. Among his solutions: - End gerrymandering. Independent commissions, not partisan legislators, would decide the shape Congressional districts. - Ranked-choice voting. Instead of choosing just one candidate, voters would have the option of ranking candidates according to their preference. - Reform primary rules, and allow independents to vote in party primaries. - Campaign finance reform. Allow small donors to have more influence at the expense shadowy "dark money" special interest groups. - Encourage support for The Problem Solvers Caucus and other bipartisan coalitions in Congress and state legislatures. - Voting reform. Expand polling hours, and legalize early and at-home voting. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 25, 2019
Risk: An Economist Walks Into a Brothel. Allison Schrager
From dating to switching jobs and managing retirement. We all manage risk. Want to get better at it? The best way to learn is to ask some of the real experts: Magicians, gamblers, big-wave surfers, horse breeders, and prostitutes. That's what economist, journalist and risk advisor Allison Schrager did. She's our guest in this episode. For people faced with risky decisions every day, making the right choices can be the difference between success or failure, and in some cases, life and death. Allison is the author of the new book " An Economist Walks Into a Brothel : And Other Unexpected Places to Learn About Risk." She visited Nevada's Moonlight Bunny Ranch brothel, hung out with paparazzi who stalked celebrities, spoke with movie makers in Hollywood, and went to a risk conference for surfers in Hawaii as part of her extensive research for the book. We learn basic lessons about human psychology as well as hedging, diversification, leverage and insurance. "You take risks to get what you want in life, and you're never going to get what you want without taking risks," says Allison. An Oscar Award-winning documentary is mentioned: " Free Solo ," about Alex Honnold's attempt to become the first person to climb the face of America's most famous rock, the 3,000ft El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, without a rope. Also, learn more about Allison's firm, LifeCycle Finance Partners . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 18, 2019
You Are What You Read - Jodie Jackson
Are you depressed when you read the news? The media's rampant negativity, with a daily emphasis on outrage and crisis, is a form of mental pollution that misinforms the public, harms democracy, and leads a distorted view of the world. "You Are What You Read" , by Jodie Jackson, is a call for reform. Written by a non-journalist, the book looks at the psychological impact of reading endlessly negative news, and shows viewers, listeners and readers how to protect themselves and change their media diet. "We need learn about how problems are being solved, issues being resolved for the sake of our souls," says Jodie in her YouTube video , promoting her book. "This is not a call for us to ignore the negative, but rather to not ignore the positive," Jodie tells us. "The most important thing from this research showed that learning about solutions can make us feel more empowered." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 11, 2019
Having Better Conversations
At a time of information overload, social media silos and political paralysis, how can all of us be better communicators? In this 200th episode, Richard and Jim share lessons they've learned about listening, asking questions and interviewing guests during nearly four years of "How Do We Fix It?" It's been a fun run, and many more episodes are being planned in the weeks and months come. This week, we discuss the show's origin story and how we've leveraged the intimacy of podcasting to change some of the questions we ask guests and how we record each conversation. We include extracts from past shows to illustrate how to ask better questions. There's also a short blooper real: Examples of questions that should not have been asked! This episode includes some hallmarks of constructive conversations: Focus on facts and evidence, acknowledge and listen to evidence that contradicts your position, and be respectful. Using humor and humility, establishing eye contact, asking brief follow-up questions are also useful techniques. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 04, 2019
"The Wall" Climate Change & Migration: John Lanchester
Novelist and journalist John Lanchester's new book "The Wall", imagines a world dealing with catastrophic climate change. Fear of rising sea levels and desperate migrants fleeing from uninhabitable lands have led to the building of a giant concrete wall around an entire island nation that is very much like the U.K. In the novel, Joseph Kavanagh, a new Defender, has one task: to protect his section of the Wall from the Others, the desperate souls who are trapped amid the rising seas outside and are a constant threat. Failure will result in death or a fate perhaps worse: being put to sea and made an Other himself. This is our first episode about a novel, which may help us understand with how individuals and society might react to a world where average annual temperatures have warmed by about 9 degrees F (2 degrees C). Would we panic and be even more fearful or xenophobic than we are today? Would older people, who failed to act on climate change before it was too late, face bitterness and blame from younger generations? "I think it's psychologically very difficult to imagine what climate change would be like," John tells us. It's a very difficult subject to look straight at.. It's not the thing we can get our heads around and easily process." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 29, 2019
Changing a Culture of Contempt: Arthur Brooks-2
Isolation and loneliness have reached epidemic levels , resulting in a profound loss of social capital. Despite mass communications, the spread of technology and social media, a recent survey found 47% of Americans often felt alone, meaningful connections to others. In this second episode with the author of the new book, " Love Your Enemies ", social scientist and president of the American Enterprise Institute, Arthur Brooks , we discuss the need for a stronger sense of community, deeper friendships, and a curiosity for uncomfortable ideas. "Without a competition of ideas, which is also known as disagreement, we get stagnation and mediocrity," Arthur tells us. "We don't need to disagree less, we need to disagree better." In this episode, we also discuss the impact of social media on community and status, and what's behind the recent college admissions cheating scandal. This is a joint episode of "How Do We Fix It?" and "Half-Hour of Heterodoxy" podcasts. Jim and Richard are joined by co-host, Deb Mashek , Executive Director of Heterodox Academy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 21, 2019
Love Your Enemies - Arthur Brooks - 1
This podcast is an urgent, radical, yet practical response to the crisis of political polarization that is tearing America apart. Instead of mere tolerance and civility, we discuss how and why we should love our enemies. A response is needed to our culture of contempt, where many think of those who they disagree with as bad people. Millions are organizing their social lives and curating their news and information to avoid hearing viewpoints different than their own. The Outrage Industrial Complex-- angry politicians, cable TV and talk radio pundits, campus activists and Twitter trolls-- profits out of making us miserable and wrecking public life. An exhausted majority of Americans is tired of how divided we've become. This show looks at how to fix it. In his new book, " Love Your Enemies: How Decent People Can Save America From the Culture of Contempt ", best-selling author and social scientist, Arthur Brooks , makes the case for something that is far more life affirming than mere tolerance and civility. He explains a new way to lead based not on attacking others, but on bridging national divides and mending personal relationships. "You increase anxiety and stress in your own life when you treat somebody else with contempt," Arthur tells us. "The reason why I talk about love your enemies is because I believe that contempt in our society today is not just a terrible thing that we do, it's also a habit that we're engaged in." The episode is a joint production with "Half Hour of Heterodoxy". Deb Mashek, Executive Director of Heterodox Academy is our co-host. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 15, 2019
Roundup: Pesticides and Health. Carey Gillam
Monsanto's controversial Roundup herbicide is the world's top-selling weed killer . But tens of billions of dollars in sales and profits are at stake because of questions about the safety of glyphosate , the product's key ingredient. Does Roundup cause cancer? Is it linked to cases of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma ? Are GMO crops allies or enemies in the fight for a more sustainable environment? More than 11,200 lawsuits have been filed, claiming that Roundup causes cancer. A major trial is now underway in federal court in San Francisco. A 70-year-old California man alleges that he got sick because he used Roundup on his property for many years. The trial is hearing a range of opinions. This episode features former Reuters correspondent, investigative journalist, and advocate Carey Gillam -- the author of “ Whitewash —The Story of a Weedkiller, Cancer and the Corruption of Science.” Carey's book won the Rachel Carson book award from the Society of Environmental Journalists. We report on the rates of non-Hodgkin lymphoma cases in recent years, and examine calls for transparency, the need for independent, rigorous science, and why European regulators take a different view of pesticides and food safety than U.S. authorities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 07, 2019
The Green New Deal Unpacked: Megan McArdle
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez didn't waste any time getting started in Congress. The first-term Democrat boldly proposed The Green New Deal, one of the most ambitious policy proposals in decades. Precise details are fuzzy, but the broad strokes suggest that the Green New Deal calls on the federal government to ban virtually all fossil fuels, replace most cars and airplanes with trains and other forms of public transportation, build a smart electricity grid, strengthen trade unions, retrofit every building in the country, give everyone free college, free healthcare, and a guaranteed job. But would it prevent climate change? By including a series of highly ambitious left-wing proposals on economic and social policy, is the Green New Deal debate a distraction from constructive efforts to address carbon emissions, pollution and global warming? Our guest, Megan McArdle , is a Washington Post columnist and author of the book " The Upside of Down: Why Failing Well is the Key to Success." She writes about economics, finance and government policy. We discuss a series of proposed solutions, including a carbon tax, massive new government spending on research and development of promising green technologies, and ways to make renewable energy cheaper for consumers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, February 28, 2019
New Thinking on Migration: Tolu Olubumni
Migration is an emotional, super-charged issue, sparking fierce debates, angry protests and influencing election results around the world. From President Trump's demand for a border wall to the long controversy over Brexit, migration is seen by many as a threat. But movement of people across borders is inevitable, and has always played a major role in economic growth and technological innovation. Today, global migration is at a record high-- up 50% in less than twenty years. An estimated 244 million people , or about 3.3% of the world’s population, were born in one country and now live in another. Often, solutions to the world's problems involve an unsexy truth: Better management. This episode looks at the need for safe, orderly and regular migration. The alternative to international cooperation is often violence and chaos, leading to great human suffering. Our guest is Tolu Olubunmi , host of the podcast, " A Way Home Together : Stories of the Human Journey". Tolu is a global advocate for migrants, refugees, and displaced people. She is a Dreamer, born in Nigeria, who now lives in The United States. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, February 21, 2019
Green New Nuclear Deal: Jim Meigs
The climate change debate is heating up. Record numbers of people no longer see extreme climate as a distant threat, but as a crisis that is unfolding right now. According to a Yale survey, "the proportion of Americans who are very worried about global warming has more than tripled since its lowest point in 2011." Despite opposition by activist groups, support for carbon-free nuclear power is growing among climate scientists and environmentalists as they search for ways to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions. In this episode, Richard quizzes co-host Jim Meigs, who argues in the latest edition of City Journal that nuclear is the best source of clean, reliable and safe energy. We consider concerns about cost, nuclear waste, power plant safety, and look at what really happened after disasters at Three Mile Island, Chernobyl and Fukushima. Jim explains why subsidies for wind and solar have led to the construction of more polluting natural gas plants, instead of no-emission nuclear facilities. Sources cited include an MIT study , "The Future of Nuclear Power", the research and advocacy group, Environmental Progress , and Jim's "City Journal" article. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, February 15, 2019
Work Versus College: Oren Cass
The American worker is in crisis. Wages have stagnated for several decades. Despite nearly a decade of continuous economic growth and falling unemployment (as defined by official statistics), the percentage of Americans in the workforce is still well below normal levels. For the first time in modern memory, life expectancy has started to fall, as substance abuse and obesity rates rise. Our guest in this episode, Oren Cass, argues that we've abandoned the American worker, and pushed four-college at the cost of other, more effective, solutions. In his widely-praised new book, " The Once and Future Worker ", Oren argues that government policy should emphasize production, not consumption. His arguments were summarized in The Atlantic . "We've become obsessed with consumerism-- measuring everything in terms of consumers and living standards... In the process, we've forgotten that producing stuff is important too. Oren Cass is a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute for Policy Research. He worked previously the domestic policy advisor for Mitt Romney's presidential campaign, and a management consultant at Bain & Company. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, February 07, 2019
Getting off Facebook: Wade Roush
Life as a teenager is proving traumatic for Facebook. The social media juggernaut turned 15 this month. The company has gone from being universally celebrated for changing the way we communicate, to a troubled adolescent with serious questions about its entire business model. Critics say Facebook ignored hate speech on its site and played down destructive actions by internet trolls and other bad actors. More than two-thirds of American adults are Facebook users, but surveys show that many more of us are increasingly uncomfortable that Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp-- all owned by the same parent company-- know so much about our private lives. Many of us have a conflicted relationship with social media. While disturbed about the lack of transparency and the invasion of privacy, we find it hard to walk away from friends, colleagues and family members who share photos, memories and much more on the world's biggest website. Our guest, "Soonish" podcast host and technology journalist Wade Roush , tells us he is in the process of getting off Facebook. He walks us through what this means and makes the case for why Facebook is not only much too big, but is also a threat to democracy. We examine the case of breaking up Facebook, look at its troubled role overseas, and consider what we can do to push back against the massive power of online tech giants. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, January 31, 2019
Our Journalism Crisis: A Conversation
The public's faith in journalism is at the lowest point in living memory. A recent Gallup poll for the Knight Foundation found that most U.S. adults said they personally have lost trust in the news media in recent years. More than 9 in 10 Republicans feel this way. The recent uproar over the rush to judgement and media coverage of the Covington Catholic story is the latest damaging controversy. “Boys in Make America Great Again Hats Mob Native Elder at Indigenous Peoples March,” was the first New York Times headline about what happened. But by the next day a much more complex picture began to emerge of what had happened. "The weekend began to take a long, bad turn for respected news outlets and righteous celebrities," wrote Caitlin Flanagan in a long and thoughtful analysis in The Atlantic about why the media "botched" the story. The news business is also reeling from years of job losses and budget cuts. Newsrooms at many local and regional newspapers have been decimated. More newspaper layoffs were announced in recent weeks, while many online journalists are losing their jobs at Buzzfeed and Verizon's media division. Jim and Richard look at journalism's crisis and consider whether readers, viewers and listeners may be partially to blame. We also hear from Aron Pilhofer, professor of Journalism Innovation at the Klein College of Media and Communication at Temple University, and David Bornstein co-founder of Solutions Journalism Network. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, January 25, 2019
Our Government Crisis: Philip K. HowardUntitled Episode
The longest-ever federal government shutdown and the flawed Presidency of Donald Trump are symptoms of something far deeper: Dysfunction in Washington. In this episode, Philip K. Howard attacks the failed ideologies of Republicans and Democrats, and calls for a radical simplification of government to re-empower Americans in their daily choices. Americans are a practical people, he says. They want government to be practical. "Unfortunately, we got this idea in the 1960's that we could solve the problems of human fallibility by just telling everybody how to do everything," Philip tells us. "Rules are the ultimate dictator, and even worse, you can't yell at them." For more than a decade, Philip has been campaigning for a government that works. He is an expert on the effects of modern law and bureaucracy on human behavior. Philip is the author of several books, including the best-seller “ The Death of Common Sense: How Law Is Suffocating America” and , “Try Common Sense: Replacing Failed Ideologies of Left and Right” He’s the founder of Common Good , a nonprofit group with this mission statement "simplify government, put humans back in charge, and cut mindless red tape.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, January 17, 2019
A Cure for Massive Violence: Rachel Kleinfeld
The terrible bloodshed in Syria, Yemen, and other countries at war capture global headlines. But the vast majority of killings in countries around the world are neither the result of warfare nor terrorism. Homicides by gangs, organized crime groups, paramilitary death squads, and ordinary people are the most common cause of violent deaths. More people have died in Mexico in recent years than in Iraq and Afghanistan combined. Murder rates in four U.S. cities are higher than in Latin American centers known for their past violence. Rachel Kleinfeld , a senior fellow in the Democracy, Conflict and Governance Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace is our guest in this episode. Her new book, " A Savage Order : How the World's Deadliest Countries Can Forge a Path to Security", is an urgent look at how many countries, once overwhelmed by massive violence, have since recovered. What are the specific steps needed to reduce the hugely uneven impact of "privilege violence?" In this episode of "How Do We Fix It?" we look at the vital role played by middle class citizens, who worked to restore widespread trust in democracy and institutions of government that work to protect all of the people. Drawing on fifteen years of study and firsthand field research in many nations, Rachel Kleinfeld, tells us why some democracies are so violent, and how others have reclaimed security. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, January 10, 2019
The Fight to End Gerrymandering: Katie Fahey
With a simple Facebook post saying that she wanted to end partisan gerrymandering, Katie Fahey sparked the beginnings of an extraordinary grassroots campaign. Katie is in her late 20's. With neither connections nor deep pockets, she started Voters Not Politicians to change Michigan's State Constitution. Hundreds of thousands of signatures were collected,. The movement pulled off a remarkable feat, winning a ballot measure that will create an independent citizen commission to decide the shape of congressional and state legislature districts. The goal was simple: voters - not politicians or lobbyists - would compromise and draw electoral maps that cannot favor one party or candidate. When the campaign needed money to print petitions and organize meetings, volunteers asked family and friends to contribute. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, December 28, 2018
8 For ‘18. The Year’s Big Lessons
In a year of crazy politics, disdain for the views of experts, and deep partisan divisions, we look beyond anger and fear stoked by cable TV, talk radio and social media to learn eight deeper lessons of where we are today and in what direction we are headed. Here are the eight “Fix It” takeaways as we head into 2019. Warning: Some are hopeful! 1. “Women just aren’t going to take it anymore.” We discuss the growing power of women in politics, entertainment and hear why workplace programs to stop the widespread crisis of sexual harassment could be so much better than most initiatives are today. 2. “Debt is back in a big, bad way. Why the debate over rising federal deficits and the nation’s debt mountain will grow in 2019. 3. “The economy slows down and financial worries heat up.” As Wall Street volatility returns, reporter and author Diana Henriques tells us what new financial protections are needed to prevent a future meltdown. 4. “Don’t count capitalism out.” We pushback against the recent celebration of socialism and discuss why markets are still the best way to enable opportunity for all—even despite fears that AI will take all the jobs and inequality will destroy the middle class. 5.”Identity Politics Are Back (And that’s not a good thing.)”. Political tribes were a big theme for us in 2018: The decline of civil debate and the view of some that those they disagree with are their enemies. Can ideas be traumatizing and is support for free speech and democracy declining? 6. “New Hope From The Heartland.” Why it’s not all opioids and despair. We look at promising developments in towns and cities across the country. 7. “ Things Are Better Than You Think “ At a time when many are gripped by optimism and fear we look at the powerful case for optimism. 8. “So far the system works.” From the Mueller investigation to gains made in 2018 by the economy and business, we look at how the system is holding up from assaults by extremists on the right and left. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, December 21, 2018
The Power of Reading: Professor Joesph Luzzi
America is facing a reading crisis. According to a government survey the number of adults who read for pleasure has fallen by more than 30% in less than 15 years. Another recent study found that Americans watch an average of three hours of TV a day, compared to less than half-an-hour spent reading. "Reading is seeing the world through someone else's eyes", says Professor Joseph Luzzi of Bard College , our guest in this episode. "Social media is a mirror," says Joseph. "You look into it and your tastes and interests are reflected back on you. Literature is a prism. You look into it and you are engaged, as Virginia Wolfe said, with the mind of someone else." The decline in reading and the popularity of social media may have profound impacts on democracy, feeding into our deep partisan division, and reinforcing extreme opinions. We discuss how reading Dante helped save Joseph after he became a widower and a father on the same day. We also learn about his 4-for-45 prescription for how reading literature can bring pleasure enlightenment to our daily lives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, December 13, 2018
China: The Challenge & Threat: Elizabeth Economy
The high stakes show-down between the U.S. and China on tariffs, trade and cyber security threatens to disrupt the global economy. Growing tensions were temporarily put on pause during a recent meeting at the Group of 20 summit between President Trump and China's leader Xi Jinping. But many long-term challenges remain. Relations with China are the most important foreign policy issue. The Trump Administration imposed tariffs on $250 billion of Chinese goods and has pushed back against China's trade policies and aggressive attempts to exploit U.S. technology to boost its own economy. Under Xi, China has reversed a three-decade trend towards greater political and economic opening. In this episode we look at how the U.S. and the West should deal with a more assertive, confident and anti-democratic China. Our guest is the respected scholar, Elizabeth Economy, Director for Asia Studies at The Council on Foreign Relations and the author of the highly praised book, " The Third Revolution : Xi Jinping and the New Chinese State. She is among " a distinguished group of China specialists " who have long favored engagement with Beijing, but are now advocating the United States take a more forceful approach as China attempts to undermine democratic values. "Managing this relationship is essential," says Elizabeth Economy. "It cannot allowed to it to spiral down too far." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, December 07, 2018
Our Many Perception Gaps: Sam Laine Perfas
What you think is true doesn't necessarily line up with reality. From the heated debate over gun violence deaths to our views about violent crime and global poverty, many of us have serious perception gaps. Democracy can be damaged when public opinion is out-of-step with the facts. The opioid epidemic is often in the headlines and was recently declared a public health emergency. But did you know there's another substance that kills far more people every year? Another example: massacres at schools, malls and other public places get massive media coverage, but they account for a tiny percentage of gun deaths. Our guest in this episode is Samantha Laine Perfas, host of the new podcast series, "Perception Gaps" . She tells us "there are things we perceive to be true that are simply not. And challenging us to think about these misperceptions... begins to peel back the layers of why we believe what we believe." We hear fascinating and deeply personal stories from several recent guests on "Perception Gaps," including addiction expert and former federal drug czar Michael Botticelli , Captain Perri Johnson , Commander of the Juvenile Division at the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, and Professor Jennifer Stuber of the University of Washington School of Social Work, who studies suicide prevention and mental health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, November 28, 2018
Has The Opioid Crisis Peaked? Sam Quinones
The opioid and heroin epidemic has caused massive destruction suffering and pain. After rising for many decades, America’s life expectancy rate has dropped for the past two years in a row. Nearly 50 thousand Americans last year were the victims of opioid overdose deaths-- twice the rate of other wealthy nations. But now, because of impressive initiatives to tackle the crisis, there are small glimmers of hope. The death-rate might be starting to fall. This month, a New York Times report highlighted a plunge in fatal overdoses in Dayton, Ohio, which had one of the highest rates in 2017. Among the possible solutions we hear about is GROW, a local effort that dispatches teams of social workers, medics, police officers and recovery experts to the homes of people who've overdosed. We also discuss the FDA's approval of the controversial synthetic opioid, Dsuvia, to treat cases of extreme pain , and the recent passage of a bipartisan bill to fight the epidemic. For this episode, we include last year's "How Do We Fix It?" interview with journalist Sam Quinones, author of the highly praised book, "Dreamland: The True Tale of America's Opiate Epidemic." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, November 23, 2018
AI Will Change All of US: Kai-Fu Lee
Artificial intelligence will lead to sweeping changes in our society, economy and relationship with work. China has suddenly caught up with The United States and will exercise much greater technological power in the future. "We will not have to do routine jobs anymore," says our guest, Kai-Fu-Lee. "AI will take over in the next 15 to 20 years all the routine jobs that we have and work efficiently and essentially for free and 24/7 with no complaints." This creates both daunting and exciting challenges for our future, argues Dr. Lee, who is one of the world's leading AI experts. He has been in AI research, development and investment for more than thirty years. His new book is " AI Super-Powers : China, Silicon Valley and The New York Order." We discuss deep learning and how AI can learn things by itself, recognizing faces, speech and patterns. Artificial can do sophisticated customer service, telemarketing, loan approvals and many forms of blue-collar work such as dishwashing, fruit picking and assembly line work. This episode also discusses the AI revolution in China. While "The U.S. is stronger in research and technology, China is faster with implementation and has more data," says Dr. Lee. In a recent interview with Thomas Friedman of The New York Times he said: "If data is the new oil, then China is the new Saudi Arabia." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, November 15, 2018
Thanks a Thousand. Gratitude: A.J. Jacobs
Just in time for Thanksgiving, we speak with best-selling author and "immersive journalist" A.J. Jacobs about his extraordinary gratitude project and brand new book, "Thanks a Thousand". He decided to say "thank you" to every single person involved in producing his morning cup of coffee. "It turned out to be thousands of people," A.J. tells us. "I thanked the barista, the lid designer and the coffee bean farmer, but also the truck driver who delivered the beans. The idea is to show the interdependence and interconnectivity of our world." We hear useful insights about gratitude, including tips that can be helpful and fun at Thanksgiving Day gatherings. This episode is a joint "simul-pod" with our friends at " Half Hour of Heterodoxy " podcast. Deb Mashek , Executive Director of the Heterodox Academy is the co-host along with Richard and Jim. In our confrontational and troubled times, this episode is a reminder that cooperation plays a vital role in many of the most basic human rituals. "To make a cup of coffee, you need dozens of countries, and so it's partly an argument against this rise of nationalism and tribalism to show that we are so interconnected," says A.J. Several books and lectures are mentioned, including " Enlightenment Now " by Stephen Pinker and " I Pencil " by economist Milton Friedman. A.J .recommends a worthwhile charity: Dispensers for Safe Water, an innovative low-cost approach to increase rates of household chlorination in East Africa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, November 08, 2018
Election Special: Our Take
What are the most inspiring, exasperating, unique, important, and first-in-our-lifetime results from the Midterm Elections? In this special edition, Jim and Richard give their Quick Fixes take on how American voted. We discuss: Donald Trump's turnout gift, why the economy played a far larger role than election analysts admit; the serious problems that now face both Republicans and Democrats, the insidious impact of gerrymandering, how celebrities failed to motivate voters, and why the handwringing about money in politics has been put on hold for now. From Glenn Reynolds' view that the result was more of a purple puddle than a blue wave, to why the year of the woman shattered fund-raising and attention-getting glass ceilings, this record-setting election can be interpreted in a variety of interesting ways. As for what's next? Jim and Richard discuss the power of small solutions and why the new Congress must focus on legislation as well as investigations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, November 01, 2018
Title: Bridging Divide. ReCity. Durham, North Carolina
How can America recover from hatred , distrust and resentment that have lead to deep divisions , the fraying of our civic institutions and even violence, such as the recent Pittsburgh synagogue shooting ? This episode, recorded at ReCity in Durham, North Carolina, is the third in our renewing democracy podcasts, where we report on collaborative efforts to promote respect and bridge divides. The idea behind this series is that if we’re going to pull back from the political precipice, it’s going to come first locally, not nationally. We’ve seen what hate and fear and can do, perhaps it’s time to try love, or at least tolerance. ReCity is a shared office space-- similar to a We Works for dozens of local social action non-profits and companies-- where organizations are housed in an open-plan office under one roof. We look at how their hard work can bring people together and lead to social change. "I believe there is hope for our communities, but when you turn on the news right now, you don't find that," says ReCity's Executive Director, Rob Shields. "This is an opportunity to show that hope and unity are possible in a community, and I think right now that's not a message that we are hearing from a lot of the channels we absorb information through." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 26, 2018
Bridging Divide Renewing Democracy: Minnesota
Polarization is tearing us apart. Bullying and bluster are two of the most common ingredients in American democracy. How can we renew democracy and restore the sort of trust that is essential for governance? This episode looks at the constructive and energetic responses of two local and national groups in Minnesota. We visit a Living Room Conversation discussion on race at Minneapolis Community and Technical College , and speak with the co-founder of Better Angels , Bill Doherty , a University of Minnesota Professor, who is working with others to bridge partisan divides. We also meet Tiffany Wilson-Worsley , a family and community specialist in Minneapolis, who works as a facilitator for discussions on race relations. "We have this pervasive need to be human with one another," she says. "There are so many divides, and I think the goal is to bring us all together to get to know one another, but also to grow together." Both groups promote guided conversations in a safe space, and establish ground rules for difficult discussions. They aim to build trust among participants of various viewpoint, social class, gender, ethic and racial backgrounds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, October 18, 2018
Bridging Divide: Iowa Civility Workshop
American democracy is in crisis and politics have become weaponized with name calling and personal attacks. Trust in national institutions and the media is at an all-time low. Congress and The Supreme Court are much more likely than in the past to cast predictable party-line votes. As a nation we are failing to make creative solutions, based on compromise. This episode is the first of three to report on local efforts that push back against the toxic impact of tribalization and political polarization. "This is not just a shake our fists at what Donald Trump has brought to our national discourse," Kathie Obradovich , Opinion editor at The Des Moines Register, tells us. "It goes deeper to our ability to speak to and understand each other." "People who used to put party politics aside and work for common interests are just fewer and fewer. The number of prominent moderates in Iowa politics I can count on one hand." In this episode, we report on the work of Revive Civility Iowa , a project of the National Institute of Civil Discourse, to bring a series of tools that help people overcome the degradation of our public dialogue. A two-hour workshop in Des Moines was organized by The Ray Center at Drake University, which works to improve civility and promote ethical leadership. More than two-thirds of Americans feel our incivility is a crisis . "How Do We Fix It?" looks at how neighbors, family members and local communities are responding in positive ways. This episode is partially funded by "Renewing Democracy", an initiative of Solutions Journalism Network . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, October 11, 2018
Bridging Divide. Renewing Democracy: Carolyn Lukensmeyer
Never before in living memory has America been so deeply divided, and this paralysis threatens to weaken and corrode democracy. Ideological silos have become much more common among both conservatives and liberals. One opinion poll says 7 in 10 Americans believe that our politics have reached a dangerous low point. And most say the climate is a new normal— not temporary. This is the first of four “How Do We Fix It?” episodes leading up to the Midterm Elections that discuss local and national attempts to push back against political dysfunction and the lack of rational, respectful debate. Forthcoming episodes will report on new initiatives in Iowa, Minnesota and North Carolina. Carolyn Lukensmeyer , is a leader in the field of deliberative democracy and social entrepreneurship she is the Executive Director of the National Institute for Civil Discourse. “Voters are frustrated, worried, and angry with their leaders and ashamed of how our political process works these days. Heated rhetoric and a dramatic shift away from bipartisan collaboration pervade national politics, leaving us unable to solve the major challenges confronting our nation,” the group says. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, October 04, 2018
Lessons from Reagan: Bob Spitz
At a time of fractured politics and failed leadership, what lessons can be learned from Ronald Reagan-- one of the most significant presidents in our history? Considered a dangerous outsider by critics when he was elected in 1980, he appeared to be enthralled with happy endings and disinterested in many of the finer details of economic and social policy. And yet America's fortieth president presided over an economic boom and successful peace talks with the Soviet Union that helped lead to the end of the Cold War. Our guest, best-selling biographer Bob Spitz , is the author of " Reagan: An American Journey ", a richly detailed, riveting, and carefully balanced account of a remarkable life. The book looks clearly at Reagan's policy failures on AIDS, Iran-Contra and Star Wars missile defense, as well as his achievements and great skill as a communicator. "Reagan came to power at a very important time in our history," Bob tells us. "We had come through the Vietnam War, Watergate, a succession of failed presidencies-- and the country needed someone to pick up its morale. Ronald Reagan was the right man at the right time." Unlike Donald Trump, another outsider with the aim of shaking things up and overturning establishment views of government, "Ronald Reagan didn't have a hostile bone in his body," says Bob. "Reagan was not a narcissist in any shape or form. He thought about the good of the American people above everything. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, September 27, 2018
Fighting Back Against Fake News: Steven Brill
A recent poll finds that two-thirds of Americans often or occasionally get news from social media. But many consumers are highly skeptical of the information they see on Facebook and other sites, expecting it to be "largely inaccurate." Now a new company, Newsguard, uses journalism to fight the epidemic of false stories, misinformation and outright propaganda, helping readers to navigate through online news sites. Newsguard's web browser extension rates websites that appear in searches on their reliability. The easy-to-use plug-in includes a red-green symbol that shows if a site is trying to get it right or instead has a hidden agenda. "We apply common sense to a problem that algorithms haven't been able to resolve," says Newguard's co-CEO, Steven Brill . During an extraordinary career as a journalist, author and business executive, Steven was founder of Court TV, The American Lawyer Magazine, Brill's Content Magazine, and The Yale Journalism Initiative . Now, his latest passion is fighting fake news. Newsguard provides "nutrition label" write-ups for news and information websites in the U.S. and plans to expand globally. Employing scores of journalists and analysts, the growing venture also identifies suddenly trending fake news sites and warns internet users about them in real time. More information here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, September 20, 2018
Identity Politics: Dignity and Resentment. Francis Fukuyama
Are identity politics ruining democracy? National and global institutions are in a state of decay, and identity fuels much of today's debates in America and across the world. On the right, Donald Trump seized on the grievances and resentment of white working class voters and others who felt let down by the impact of globalism and technology. On the left, social and political movements based on gender, sexual identity, race and ethnicity play an increasingly large role. "The problem with our politics is that we have shifted from arguing about economic policies to arguing about identities," says our guest, political scientist, Francis Fukuyama . In his new book, " Identity : The Demand for Dignity and The Politics of Resentment ," he warns that unless we forge a universal understanding of human dignity, we will doom ourselves to continual conflict. In the United States, “it’s better if both parties actually stick to broad social policy issues that they can argue about, rather than lining themselves up according to biological characteristics,” he tells us in this episode. We examine Fukuyama's provocative analysis of populism, nativism, white nationalism, radical Islam, and authoritarian tendencies that threaten to destabilize democracy and international affairs. Francis Fukuyama is a political scientist at Stanford University. His best-known book is "The End of History and the Last Man" , published after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, September 14, 2018
Collaboration Beats Competition: Paul Skinner
In recent decades, business strategy has been built on the idea that we must compete to win. But what if the competitive model of business is now broken? In today’s interconnected, digital world, strategies to create competitive advantage may be holding us back— with a negative impact on the workplace and the economy. In his new book “ Collaborative Advantage: How Collaboration Beats Competition as a Strategy for Success ". British marketing and business consultant Paul Skinner presents Collaborative Advantage as a radical alternative to the conventional goal of Competitive Advantage. Skinner says: "We can be more ambitious in the way we grow our businesses, increase the impact of our non-profits and find better solutions to our most pressing problems when we view our opportunities through the lens of cooperation rather than competition." This episode explores: How Competitive Advantage can overshadow human purpose and the capacity for cooperation in businesses and other organizations. How leaders can put cooperation-enabling ideas at the heart of their businesses and deepen relationships with customers, clients and employees. How the dogma of Competitive Advantage may explain why solutions offered by previous guests “How Do We Fix It?” are not yet mainstream Paul Skinner is the founder of the U.K.-based Agency of the Future , and founder of Pimp My Cause , which uses cause-related marketing to boost the capabilities of teams and individuals. Paul is a regular listener to “How Do We Fix It?” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, September 04, 2018
The Codding of the American Mind: Jonathan Haidt
At the recent funeral for Republican Senator John McCain, former Presidents and leaders of both parties paid tribute to his belief that America "is a nation of ideals, not blood and soil." In the farewell statement to the country he loved, Senator McCain described our democracy as “325 million opinionated, vociferous individuals.” The funeral was a rare, and perhaps passing moment of bipartisan unity and friendship at a time of bitter partisan division. In this episode, we look at some of the roots of political tribalism, why some young people are turning against free speech, and the need to " play our way to a better democracy ." Our guest is social psychologist, Professor Jonathan Haidt , co-author of the highly-praised book, " The Coddling of the American Mind : How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation For Failure." We discuss the ideas and research in his book: Why so many college students are anxious and depressed and how recent problems on campus have their origins in three damaging, destructive ideas that have become increasingly woven into American childhood and education: What doesn't kill you makes you weaker. Always trust your feelings. Life is a battle between good and bad people. We also examine constructive ways to deal with microaggressions, helicopter parenting, "safetyism" and the growing intolerance for opposing points of view that threaten the future of our national political discourse. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sun, September 02, 2018
Astrophysics For People In a Hurry: Neil deGrasse
Tyson talks about the possibility of intelligent life on other planets, tackles science deniers on the right and left, and explains why we should invest more in pure science. Tyson also discusses his book, "Astrophysics for People in a Hurry.” "What's curious to me is you have the liberal community claiming the (moral) high road ...against the science deniers of the right with regard to global warming and evolution in the classrooms... as though they are somehow untainted by non-scientific thinking,” Tyson tells us. "There is a whole portfolio of science denying that also happens in the liberal left." Investments in pure science led to many remarkable breakthroughs in medicine, technology and physics - often decades after the research began. Following the discovery of quantum physics in the 1920's, "it would take forty to fifty years before we would see the rise of information technology," says Tyson. "There is no information technology without an understanding of quantum physics." Tyson also discusses his sense of awe and wonder about the secrets of the cosmos. ““You can’t be a scientist and have discomfort with not knowing,” he tells us. “When there is a frontier that’s unexplored, where there are stupefying depths of ignorance, it excites you. It gets you out of bed in the morning and running to the lab.”” — Neil deGrasse Tyson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, August 30, 2018
The Case for Space Travel: Neil deGrasse Tyson
Neil deGrasse Tyson , America’s most prominent spokesman for science and Director of New York City’s Hayden Planetarium , talks about the benefits of a cosmic perspective, the case for manned space flight and much more in this first part of our wide-ranging conversation. We also discussed Tyson's book, " Astrophysics for People in a Hurry ." Richard and Jim met Tyson at his offices at The American Museum of Natural History . While insisting he is not an advocate for manned space flight, Tyson says "history tells us" space exploration "is one of the most potent forces to operate on the scientific ambitions of a citizenry." At the height of the Apollo program in the 1960's, "you didn't need special programs to get people interested in science," Tyson explains. "There were weekly headlines about our journeys into space and you knew you needed the best of the best to breech the frontier of space." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, August 23, 2018
Soaring Suicide Rates: Dr. Richard Friedman
The national suicide rate rose 28% from 1999 to 2016, according to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In 2016, alone, 45,000 people took their own lives. This year's suicides of celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain and fashion designer, Kate Spade , focused new attention on the crisis. Why is the U.S. suicide rate as high as it was one hundred years ago? What are proven ways to save lives and reduce depression and chronic anxiety? Our guest is Dr. Richard Friedman , a professor of clinical psychiatry and Director of the psychopharmacology Clinic at Weill Cornell Medical College, New York. "We should declare war on suicide," he tells us. "The federal government spends more money researching dietary supplements and headache remedies than it does suicide." More here from Dr. Friedman's recent New York Times article. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, August 13, 2018
Populism: Bigger Than Trump? Salena Zito
Was Donald Trump's election a one-off event, or did it represent a fundamental realignment of American politics? Washington-based political experts wrongly called the 2016 election, and our guest, Salena Zito , author of "The Great Revolt" , argues that they keep blowing it today. Democrats who ignore the concerns of those who went for Obama in 2012, but then backed Trump four years later, do so at their peril. We examine the spread of populism that is reshaping American politics on the right and the left, and why it may have much more staying power than critics would like to admit. Despite President Trump's weak approval ratings , the coalition that brought him to the White House is largely holding together. Salena drove many thousands of miles on back roads, speaking with hundreds of Trump voters in ten Great Lake swing counties while reporting for the New York Post, the Washington Examiner, and contributing to The Atlantic. She takes them seriously. From "red-blooded blue-collared" conservative populists to "rough rebounders" and "girl gun power" supporters, we learn why so many believe that Trump stands up for working people against powerful corporate interests. "Modern populism today is a healthy skepticism of large things, big institutions, big government, big entertainment, big sports," says Salena. "This coalition isn't just impacting the ballot, its having an impact on how we shop and how we consume things." In this episode we look at the roots of populism, but also take a skeptical view of its future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, August 02, 2018
Can Podcasting Save The Planet?
From ancient times to the present day, women and men have brought meaning to their lives through storytelling. Before the invention of the printing press, ancient societies passed on the knowledge and wisdom of one generation to the next through oral history. Today, no other medium is as intimate and personal as podcasting. We are the town criers of our time. In this "Quick Fix" episode, Richard and Jim discuss the future of podcasting-- an industry that faces both opportunities and challenges. More than 550,000 podcasts are on iTunes-- and the number is growing every week. So is the audience. But while two-thirds of Americans have heard of the term "podcast," fewer than one-in-five are regular listeners. Last week in Philadelphia at Podcast Movement-- the annual trade show, rally and conference-- Tom Webster of Edison Research said: "The key to moving from 48 million weekly podcast listeners to the 100 million mark is understanding why those people familiar with the term “podcasting” have never listened." The launch of the new Google Podcasts app may go a long way towards reaching this goal. Until now, Apple has been the dominant player. Smart speakers present a great growth opportunity, bringing new ways to listen to podcasts. And each year podcasting reaches into an ever-widening circle of communities and interests. Find out here about how we make this show and other podcasts for our clients. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, July 26, 2018
The Fight For Free Expression: Deb Mashek
Free speech on campus is under assault at many colleges and universities. From disinviting commencement speakers to shouting down professors and others they disagree with, some students demand "safe spaces" from controversial remarks and what they call micro-aggressions. So far, 1800 professors from the right, left, center and other political leanings have joined the effort to bridge the ideological divide. Heterodox Academy is part of a growing number of attempts to encourage greater civility and respect for different points of view. Deb Mashek is the first Executive Director of Heterodox Academy. For 13 years, she was a professor of psychology at Harvey Mudd College. "My learning is improved when I get to engage with you, because you see things differently, Deb tells us. It's not just about tolerating other viewpoints. "If we're serious about solving the world's biggest problems, we need to be open to the best ideas, regardless of where they come from." "A willingness to evaluate new ideas is vital to understanding our world," says Harvard University Professor Steven Pinker. "Universities, which ought to be forums for open debate, are developing a reputation for dogmatism and intolerance." Heterodox Academy was formed in 2015 to counteract the narrowing of viewpoints on many college campuses. In this episode we look at why viewpoint diversity matters just as much as other forms of diversity on campus and in society at large. Useful links: Heterodox Academy podcast. OpenMind Platform. "The Closing of the American Mind", by Allan Bloom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, July 19, 2018
The High Cost of America First: James Bacchus
President Trump has withdrawn from international agreements, criticized NATO, The European Union, and attacked the policies of Canada, Mexico, Britain, France and Germany-- all traditional allies. He praised President Putin, and continues to sow chaos in the international trading system, reportedly threatening to pull the U.S. out of the World Trade Organization-- W.T.O. This last step, above all, could have the most serious impact on the American economy, damaging businesses, destroying jobs, and weakening U.S. influence around the world. In this episode, we look at solutions for climate change, sustainable growth, the need for smarter international co-operation, and the reason why the W.T.O. is so crucial to the future of the global trading system. Our guest is former Florida Congressman James Bacchus , Director of the Center for Global Economic and Environmental Opportunity at the University of Central Florida. He was twice the chief judge of the highest court of world trade at the W.T.O. in Geneva, Switzerland. Jim's new book is " The Willing World . Shaping and Sharing a Sustainable Global Prosperity." "I believe our President is a pessimist," he says. "He doesn't really believe in America or the American people, despite all he says about putting America first." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, July 13, 2018
The Fall and Rise of Small Towns: Dar Williams
America's landscape of towns and cities is ever-changing. Countless Main Streets and small downtowns were eviscerated by big box stores, globalization, online commerce and poor planning. But today, many resilient communities are fighting back. Called "one of America's very best singer-songwriters " by The New Yorker, our guest, Dar Williams , tells us how towns and cities can turn themselves around. " What I Found in a Thousand Towns : A Traveling Musician's Guide to Rebuilding America's Communities" is an impassioned account of the fall and rise of small American towns she cherishes. Dar chronicles practical success stories and challenges, delivering her message with hope and love. "The opposite of division is not unity. It is collaboration," says Dar. We discuss the power of positive proximity and how working on local projects together can bring different parts of a community together. Dar speaks of the strength of weak ties and why they help build networks of people who act as stewards for the places that they love. From improving police-community relations in Gainesville, Florida, to the revival of Beacon, New York , we learn of many examples of how communities can succeed and thrive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, July 05, 2018
A Fresh Look at Freedom: Russell Shorto
We discuss the American Revolution and the meaning of freedom with acclaimed historian and journalist, Russell Shorto , author of the 2018 book, " Revolution Song : A Story of American Freedom."Russell Shorto is also the writer of a fine new podcast series, " American History Tellers ." As the nation struggles with a political crisis and national discord, this episode-- released during the week of the July 4th vacation-- has special resonance. We look at fundamental ideas of democracy and founding principles developed before and during the American War of Independence. As he did with " The Island at the Center of the World ," which looked at the Dutch impact on New York, Russell's latest book examines American values, drawing deeply on personal diaries, letters and autobiographies to flesh out six important lives. They include an African-American man who freed himself and his family from slavery, a Seneca tribal warrior who became a wise and respected political leader, and George Washington himself. When he began working on "Revolution Song" six years ago, "I thought I was doing history," Russell tells us. "I thought these things were long ago settled. I didn't think I would be living in a time when freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of speech would be even debatable or under attack." "The intertwined stories of "Revolution Song" give a sense of how far-reaching a phenomenon the War of Independence was," wrote a book reviewer in the New York Times . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, June 28, 2018
The Good News About Drones: Mehdi Salehi
Do a Google search of drones, and scary headlines pop up instantly. " Dangerous Drones Invade Protected Airspace Daily," says one. While others talk about "spooky, scary" drones that invade privacy ; get in the way of firefighters , or lead to new types of warfare. These concerns are real, but there are also many constructive use for drones that save lives , make cities safer and boost the economy. "Wherever there's a problem, I'm pretty sure you can find a use to overcome that problem utilizing drones," says our guest, Mehdi Salehi of the Parsons School of Design. His company, Drone Labs, specializes in drone design, R&D, data collection and analysis. Mehdi draws on his own experience as a refugee "leaving Afghanistan, going to Europe and then coming to New York" to build on a lifelong fascination with flight. "I've always believed that you can utilize this technology for good," he tells us in this episode. Drone technology is rapidly improving. Artificial Intelligence, or machine learning, will lead to many new breakthroughs in the near future. Among the civilian applications that we discuss: Using drones to help first responders in flood, fire and other natural disasters. Inspections of high-rise buildings and wind turbines. Tracking refugees in flimsy boats and rafts, who are in danger of drowning before rescuers can get close. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, June 21, 2018
Blockchain: The Next Big Thing? Dan Patterson
A trade war with China has dangerous implications for the global economy. What began more than a year ago with President Trump’s decision to impose tariffs has become an unpleasant economic reality for many businesses. Recently, the U.S. labeled China a “ currency manipulator. ” But an even larger long-term threat comes from China’s aggressive espionage offensive that is playing out in behind-the-scenes as of the U.S. and China struggle for global dominance. Our guest is Elizabeth Economy , a senior fellow and director of Asia studies at the Council on Foreign Relations in New York. Her most recent book, “The Third Revolution: Xi Jinpeng and the New Chinese State”, explains the background to recent dramatic changes inside China. She is among a distinguished group of China specialists who once favored engagement with Beijing, but are now calling for the United States to take a more forceful approach as China attempts to undermine democratic values. We discuss the best ways to navigate this relationship. "Managing this relationship is essential," says Elizabeth. "It cannot allowed to it to spiral down too far." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, June 14, 2018
Our Towns. Solutions & Reinvention. James Fallows - Part 2
Despite bitter partisanship and political paralysis in Washington, local democracy is alive in well in many towns and cities across the country. That's the surprising finding in "Our Towns: A 100,000-Mile Journey Into the Heart of America," by journalist James Fallows of The Atlantic magazine and his wife, writer and linguist Deborah Fallows. In this episode, part two of our conversation with James, we look at the ways many local business owners, city planners, educators and citizens have worked in pragmatic and inventive ways to improve life in their communities. We discuss public/private partnerships , the enormous value provided by community colleges in the changing jobs market, infrastructure projects, and innovative ways downtown districts have been revived. “The good news is the solutions to our civic problems already exist,” said opinion writer David Brooks in a recent column , praising “Our Towns.” “We just need to take these civic programs and this governing philosophy and nationalize them. We need to transform these local stories into a coherent national story.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, June 07, 2018
Our Towns. Solutions & Reinvention: James Fallows
Congress sank to a dismal 10% approval rating in a new poll . Most Americans believe the nation is heading in the wrong direction . But ask people about their own lives and local communities, and you are likely to get a very different answer. According to a Gallup poll , well over 80% of Americans are satisfied in general with the way their personal lives are going. Despite negative media coverage of "fly-over country" and the "rust belt", exciting things are happening in towns and cities across the country. "This still can be the country people would like to think it is," says well-known journalist James Fallows of The Atlantic magazine and co-author of " Our Towns : A 100,000-Mile Journey Into the Heart of America." He says that most people don't realize how fast the country is moving toward becoming a better version of itself. The book and our interview offer a surprising portrait of the civic and economic reinvention taking place. James and his wife Deborah Fallows wrote the book together, traveling to 31 towns and cities over four years in their single engine plane. The America they saw is deeply conscious of its problems-- from the appalling opioid epidemic to decades of economic dislocation. But many communities are coming up with practical, lasting solutions, in contrast to the rigid paralysis of national politics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, May 31, 2018
The Next Debt Crisis: Maya MacGuineas
"The debt will be as large as our entire economy by the end of the decade", says Maya MacGuineas , President of the bipartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget . "Every indicator that you could look for in terms of the numbers is on flashing red alert." The U.S. federal government debt is nearly $20 trillion and rising each year. Interest payments are the single fastest growing part of the federal budget, and higher interest rates in the near future will add to the enormous burden. A recent report from the International Monetary Fund predicts that the U.S. will be the only advanced economy in the world to see its debt burden grow significantly over the next five years. As seen recently with Italy's debt , a full-blown bond crisis can erupt at any time. But President Trump and both parties in Congress are barely focusing on the problem . Media coverage is usually confined to the business press. This episode looks at why the 2018 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expands projected annual deficits and is a huge gamble for the future of the economy. Maya MacGuineas also discusses ways to restore fiscal balance through reducing unproductive tax breaks and putting the brakes on spending. Here's a link to a new interactive debt fixer tool and Social Security calculator, showing how your retirement benefits will be cut unless Washington acts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, May 24, 2018
The Great Environmental Debate: Charles C. Mann
Far too often, politics and policy are portrayed as a battle between liberals and conservatives, or socialists vs. capitalists. But one of the most profound divides of modern times is between optimists and pessimists-- especially over how they view the environment. This episode looks at the debate between environmental optimists (wizards), who believe we can invent our way to a better, healthier future, and pessimists (prophets), who say we must impose limits on pollution, over-crowding other impacts of humans on the planet. Our guest, journalist, Charles C. Mann, author of new book, "The Wizard and The Prophet", is a correspondent for The Atlantic, Science and Wired. Two of his previous books, 1491 and 1493, were widely-acclaimed best sellers. We consider the dueling visions of two remarkable scientists. Norman Borlaug's research led to the Green Revolution, which saved hundreds of millions of lives, and boosted agricultural production. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work. William Vogt, who saw the world as bound by immutable biological limits, was the founder of modern environmentalism, perhaps the most successful ideology of the past century. His book, "Road to Survival", which inspired generations of environmental activists. Do apocalyptic environmentalists sometimes seem heartless about the lives of poor people? Are technological optimists are too optimistic about the future, with ideas that lead to global domination by massive, centralized corporations and economic systems? We unpack these and other challenging questions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, May 17, 2018
Fighting Gang Violence: Jonathan Green
From the streets of Chicago and Los Angeles, to indictments this month targeting criminal networks in Savannah, Georgia and white supremacists in Grand Prairie, Texas, tens of thousands of gangs are responsible for drug crimes, brutal killings and other forms of violence. According to one recent estimate , nearly one-and-a-half million people are members of gangs in the United States. In this episode, we look at the lessons learned from the successful police and federal crackdown against Sex Money Murder (SMM), New York City's most violent drug gang in the early 1990's. The Bronx had one the highest murder rates in the country. The notorious SMM was the most violent gang in the city. Our guest, Jonathan Green, is the author of the new book, " Sex Money Murder : A Story of Crack, Blood and Betrayal." He tells the hair-raising story of how SMM brutally dealt with rivals and anyone else who got in their way, as well as the economics of the crack epidemic, which brought great wealth to gang leaders. This episode looks at the work of Detective John O'Malley, housing cop Pete Forcelli. federal prosecutor Liz Glazer and others who risked their lives to take violent crews off the streets and win convictions against SMM'S leading members. Jonathan also tells the story of gang leader "Pistol" Pete Rollock and two his top lieutenants, Suge and Pipe. We look at what works today in the fight against gangs, including the use of federal RICO laws, and intervention by local communities . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, May 10, 2018
A Solution for Israelis & Palestinians? Dahlia Scheindlin
President Trump's rejection of the Iran nuclear agreement and Israeli military attacks on Iranian sites in Syria are among the latest signs of rising tensions in the Middle East. The threat of war is ever-present. Twenty five years after the signing of the Oslo Accords , relations between the Israeli government and Palestinian Authority are at a low point. There has been no significant peace process in many years. We speak with Israeli public opinion analyst, strategic consultant and peace researcher, Dahlia Scheindlin , who is hopeful that a new peace agreement will emerge. In addition to her work with Israelis and Palestinian, she has expertise conflict resolution in Eastern Europe and the Balkans. Dahlia is co-host of the podcast, The Tel Aviv Review. In this episode, we discuss the proposal for a confederation between Israel and Palestine. Unlike the hard borders in a traditional two-state solution, a two-state confederation would allow for greater movement of both peoples. While the idea has received little coverage in the international media, the confederation debate is gathering strength in Israel. The concept calls for a softer separation with more Palestinians living as non-citizens in Israel, while Jewish settlements with Israeli citizens may remain in Palestine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, May 03, 2018
Stopping Sexual Harassment
The growing #MeToo movement has exposed many cases of sexual harassment and retaliation in the workplace. Among the latest examples is an upheaval at Nike. Female employees, fed up with years of gender discrimination, insensitive behavior and crude comments by male colleagues, took action . Covertly, they surveyed female peers, asking about their experiences. The findings led to changes, with at least six top male executives resigning or announcing plans to leave the company . Despite widespread media coverage and outrage over cases of sexual harassment and abuse, little focus has been given to what happens next. We look at specific steps employers can take to improve the workplace environment. In this repeat episode, New York Times journalist Claire Cain Miller , who writes about gender, families and the future of work for The Upshot, explains the challenges ahead in the fight for equality and respect. A recent survey found that nearly half of women said they had experienced some form of sexual harassment at work at least once in their careers. A 2015 study revealed that only one-quarter to a third of women who experience sexual harassment report it. For solutions visit our website howdowefixit.me Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 26, 2018
Microtrends = Big Changes: Mark Penn
When we focus on the future, we usually look at the big things: Will the current crisis with North Korea be resolved peacefully? Is President Trump likely to face a big setback in the midterm elections? When will the next recession hit? Our guest, political consultant Mark Penn , argues that the future is not shaped by broad forces, but by quiet changes-- Microtrends-- within narrow slices of the population. We hear about "Techno-Luddites", the rise of internet marriages, the huge increase in the number of Americans living into their nineties, and why these and many other trends will have a profound impact on the future of jobs, society and politics. Ten years ago, Mark showed how the behavior of one small group can exert a surprisingly large influence over the whole country. Now, in his latest book, Microtrends Squared , there are more fascinating Mark Penn is a pollster and political consultant. He worked for Bill and Hillary Clinton, as well as for Microsoft. In the ‘90s he identified the rise of the “Soccer Moms” who helped elect Bill Clinton. In 2007, he wrote the book Microtrends, detailing many similar trends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 19, 2018
The New Movement to Restore Civility
The National Week of Conversation is a bold attempt to reduce the yawning gap between Republicans and Democrats. More than 100 groups across the country are involved in online and in-person events from April 20th to April 28th. We look at how the project works and why it can make a difference. With American politics increasingly dominated by personal insults, name calling and dogma, a growing movement for greater civility is emerging. "The ever-widening gulf ..is one of the most significant trends to emerge in U.S. society in the past two decades," says a Gallup polling analysis. Our guests in this episode, John Gable and Joan Blades , are leaders of a growing project to bring Americans together to talk it out, mending the bitter partisan divide "one conversation at a time." #ListenfFirst and #NWOC are the hashtags they use on social media. "When you only talk to people just like yourself, and we only get information that confirms what we already think, we become much more extreme in our beliefs and much less tolerant," says John. Living Room Conversations , the group Joan co-founded, is hosting five online events as part of the National Week of Conversation. AllSides , the website that features news reports from the left, right, and center, is also deeply involved. Big Tent Nation , Bridge Alliance Partners, NCDD , The National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation, and The National Institute for Civil Discourse are organizing partners. Since we started our weekly news solutions show nearly three years ago, "How Do We Fix It?" has been committed to addressing the crisis of political paralysis. We are pleased to promote this cause. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 12, 2018
Fixing Capitalism: Luigi Zingales
From internet giants Facebook, Amazon and Google to telecom titans AT&T, Verizon and Comcast, American capitalism is increasingly dominated by huge and politically well-connected business behemoths. We look at the case for reform, including stronger anti-trust regulations, innovative use of the Interstate Commerce Clause, better pay for government regulators, and reform of the tax code. Our guest, finance professor, Luigi Zingales of the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, makes a crucial distinction between free markets and big business. Luigi is the author of two widely reviewed books: "Saving Capitalism from Capitalists (coauthored with Raghuram Rajan) and "A Capitalism for the People: Recapturing the Lost Genius of American Prosperity." He is also the co-host of the popular podcast, "Capitalisnt." In this episode of "How Do We Fix It?" Luigi presents arguments to reduce the power of crony capitalism and restore competition at all levels as an engine for economic growth and fairness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, April 05, 2018
The World Is Getting Better: Gregg Easterbrook
The facts are hard to deny. We live longer, infant mortality continues to fall, we are richer, less subject to violence-- and despite uneven progress, the world is more democratic than it was 50 years ago. And yet so many people are gripped by pessimism and fear. Donald Trump was elected President after repeatedly claiming "our country is going to hell." A recent poll found that just three-in-ten Americans think the country is headed in the right direction. The number of Americans who think the country has a strong national character declined sharply in the last two decades. Our guest, journalist Gregg Easterbrook is author of the new book, "It's Better Than It Looks: Reasons for Optimism in an Age of Fear." "If you're an optimist you think that problems can be fixed," says Gregg. "If you're a pessimist, you think the world is going to hell and there is nothing I can do about it." We look at why our pessimistic outlook has been blurred by the rise of social media, and is getting in the way of urgently needed reforms, from reducing climate change to fixing the national debt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 29, 2018
America's Leadership Crisis: Davia Temin
With turmoil and never-ending drama in the White House, and record numbers of departures from top levels of the Trump Administration, it is safe to say that America is facing a leadership crisis. According to recent polls, a solid majority of US voters disapproves of Trump's leadership. In corporate America, the once-celebrated Facebook CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, is facing growing criticism over his late and insufficient response to privacy concerns and the Cambridge Analytica data hijacking scandal. University administrators, media titans and the leaders of the US Gymnastics movement have all faced angry protests for mishandling cases of sexual abuse, assault and harassment. This episode looks at how leaders can avoid the mistakes and embarrassment that could ruin their reputation, lead to their downfall and cause their employees and associates great harm. Our guest is the highly respected crisis communications and leadership strategist, Davia Temin . She speaks from a place of deep experience and passion about the crucial importance of ethics, honesty and diversity, as well as the need for leaders to communicate quickly and clearly, especially in times of crisis. We learn about the do’s and don’ts of crisis communications as well as the benefits of coaching and training. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 22, 2018
Google is Forever. No Second Chances: Brian Hamilton
Whether it's Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, or Google; internet platforms are a huge force in our daily lives. The recent scandal over the Steven Bannon-affiliated Cambridge Analytica is the most recent example of the downside of data. This episode of "How Do We Fix It?" is about search, and how it can condemn former inmates to a life sentence without work. In their case, the internet is a "help not wanted" sign, preventing them from getting a job and putting their lives back on track. The cost to ex-prisoners and their families is enormous. Three-out-of-four ex-offenders are unemployed at least a year after they finish their jail sentence. Less than half are working five years after their release. At a time of almost-full employment, this is a drag on the economy. "When people get out of jail, their internet profiles can stay with them forever," says business executive, Brian Hamilton, founder of "Inmates to Entrepreneurs," an outreach group that helps ex-offenders start their own businesses. "There is systematic discrimination against these people by employers who always Google people." We discuss the social and economic cost and consider whether people should have the right to have their past removed from their search profile, say after ten years. We hear from Brian how learning entrepreneurial skills can help large numbers of former inmates get a foothold in the jobs market. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 15, 2018
Making Luck Happen: Janice Kaplan
What do Mark Zuckerberg, hockey great Wayne Gretzky, and best-selling novelist Lee Child all have in common? They all worked to make luck happen for them. In this episode with award-winning author, editor and journalist, J anice Kaplan , we learn about the exciting ways you can grab opportunities and improve your life. There is a clear difference between random chance and luck. The case is made in the new book that she wrote with risk-taking expert Barnaby Marsh , " How Luck Happens : Using the Science of Luck to Transform Work, Love and Life ." Luck includes chance, but it is not a one-time event and also involves a combination of talent, open-minded research, and hard work. We learn to how change the odds, why it may be important to move to places where your chances of success improve, and why having a positive outlook boosts your chances of long-term success. Winning the lottery, says Janice, "is not a great example of the kind of luck we're talking about, where you do have an input, where you can change things." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, March 09, 2018
Reducing gun violence: What Works. James Burnett
The debate over gun violence is deeply polarized, but almost everyone agrees it's an urgent problem and that far too many people are being killed and injured by firearms in the United States. The toll is more than 100 deaths per day-- a much higher rate than in other wealthy nations. Unlike the appalling killings in Parkland, Florida, Newtown, Connecticut, and at other schools, most gun murders involve a single victim and don't get national media coverage. Mass shootings account for less than 2% of all gun-related deaths. In this episode, we ask: of all the widely-touted proposals to reduce the rate of gun violence, which ones would actually work the best? Our guest James Burnett, Editorial Director of The Trace, an independent, nonpartisan newsroom that shines a light on America's gun violence crisis. We have an estimated 300 million guns in America-- about one for every household. But would banning military-style weapons and bump stocks be more effective than improving the system of federal background checks? Are red flag warnings a smart answer? Weeks after the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, in which 17 people were killed, Florida Sens. Marco Rubio (R) and Bill Nelson (D) proposed new legislation that would encourage states to create gun violence restraining orders. Other proposals include improving gun safety education, more spending on research about guns, mental health treatment and public health solutions: recognizing gun crime as a preventable public health problem. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, March 01, 2018
Will #NeverAgain Bring Lasting Change? Elizabeth Matto
Within four days of the mass shooting at Margaret Stoneman High School in Parkland, Florida that left 17 people dead, Never Again was born. In this episode, we ask whether young millennials, who grew up after 9/11 during a time of school lockdowns, will become effective advocates for lasting social and political change. Digitally savvy students-- survivors of the massacre-- turned to social media with the hashtag #NeverAgain. This activist campaign for sweeping changes in gun control laws became a national phenomenon with a mass following on Twitter and other social media platforms. March For Our Lives is planned for March 24th by kids and families "to demand that their lives and safety become a priority and that we end gun violence and mass shootings in our schools," says the group's statement. "This generation has become more in tune and in touch with the avenues of political power," says Professor Elizabeth Matto, Director of the Center for Youth Political Participation at the Eagleton Institute, Rutgers University, and the author of "Citizen Now: Engaging in Politics and Democracy." "They understand that there's a difference between simply raising awareness and sharing something on Facebook, and directly linking it to the political process and showing adults how to hold politicians accountable," she tells "How Do We Fix It?" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, February 21, 2018
The Next Space Race: Joe Pappalardo
The impressive launch of the Falcon Heavy rocket by SpaceX from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, and the touchdown of two boosters back at Cape Canaveral minutes later, are the latest milestones in a thrilling comeback story. Space is becoming sexy again and the pace of innovation is remarkably fast. Not since the days of John Glenn,the Apollo moon launch, and the Space Shuttle program has spaceflight been so exciting. In this episode, technology journalist Joe Pappalardo, author of the new book, "Spaceport Earth: The Reinvention of Spaceflight", tells us why the emerging space race is different this time, and includes a vital role played by SpaceX, Blue Origin and other private companies. Their drive may lead to stunning advances in the human quest to explore and understand the universe. The goal of entrepreneur and billionaire visionary Elon Musk, is to put men and women on Mars. In addition to the shining ambition of interplanetary travel, Musk's firm, SpaceX, has already sharply cut the cost of rocket launches. Learn more about current breakthroughs as well as how NASA can play a leading role in this episode of "How Do We Fix It?" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, February 14, 2018
Healthcare Data Revolution: Dr. Joe Habboushe
Wouldn't it be great if consumers could access all their personal medical records quickly and share them with doctors, family members and others they trust? This could lead to revolutionary changes in patient outcomes with less bureaucracy and fewer medical mistakes and unnecessary tests. In recent weeks, major announcements by Apple and Google, plus a new healthcare alliance by Amazon, Berkshire Hathaway and JP Morgan Chase are signs of accelerated change. No one is better equipped to interpret these changes than physician and entrepreneur, Dr. Joe Habboushe, our expert guest on this episode of "How Do We Fix It?" Joe is CEO of MD Calc--a leading online medical tool for clinical decisions by physicians-- and a specialist in emergency medicine at NYU Medical Center in New York. On this show we look at opportunities and hazards in the changing relationship between doctors and parents. We discuss privacy concerns and examine how data, smartphone apps and other innovations could reduce costs and lead to better diagnosis of common illnesses and physical ailments. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, February 07, 2018
The Truth About Self-Driving Cars
It's time to put the brakes on the hype about self-driving cars. Despite industry and media forecasts, it may be more than a decade before many fully autonomous vehicles are on the road. Lawsuits and patent disputes are among the many hurdles that face auto manufacturers and tech firms. But this doesn't mean that technology is being thrown into reverse gear. Semi-autonomous cars with vehicle assist and other features are much safer than earlier generations of automobiles. Self-driving delivery trucks and vans are no longer a fantasy. "Fix It" guest Eddie Alterman, Editor-in-Chief of Car and Driver magazine is deeply skeptical about the widely-touted changes proclaimed by major manufacturers. "It's a scary concept anyway you look at it," he tells us. "The autonomous car is a very inelegant, very complex and a very fraught solution to the problem of texting while driving... and of information coming into the car when people should be driving." For Google, Apple, Microsoft and other big data companies, autonomous cars are a big opportunity. Instead of keeping their eyes on the road, motorists would use their driving time to consume more digital media. But Eddie says a mix of self-driving and traditional vehicles on the road would create danger. "People will deal with or accept flawed humans crashing into each other. I don't think people will accept supposedly fail-safe machines crashing into each other." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, February 01, 2018
When Will Wall Street Crash? Diana Henriques
The U.S. stock market has soared about 40% since the Trump election. But is it over-valued and ready for a meltdown? Shortly before the worst one-day crash in history in November 1987, the market had been charging ahead, with a 40% rise that year. The economy was on a roll, just like today. What would happen if giant investment funds bailed out of stocks at the same time? Would there be another financial crisis, even worse than the events in 2008? "We are more vulnerable to a radical readjustment," says our guest, New York Times journalist, Diana Henriques, author of the widely praised "A First Class Catastrophe: The Road to Black Monday, the Worst Day in Wall Street History." "It is important for us always to remember that markets go up and they go down, says Diana. "What we need to worry about is do they fall apart when they fall." "Even professional money managers today are alarmed at the fragility of market structures on which they rely." In this episode, we look at potential solutions, including streamlined financial regulations, guaranteeing that authorities have a 360 degree view of where financial brushfires are erupting, and scrapping the highly fragmented system that we have today. We also take a second look to the findings of the Brady Commission, the post-mortem report after the "catastrophe" in 1987. Hear more about the financial system and its flaws from our previous guests: Roger Lowenstein on why we need The Federal Reserve; Rana Foroohar, of The Financial Times, on Wall Street's giant threat to the economy; ABC News Chief Business, Technology and Economics Correspondent, Rebecca Jarvis, on fixing everyday money mistakes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, January 25, 2018
50/50 Nation? No! Morris Fiorina
From the recent government shutdown to strict partisan votes on taxes and healthcare, official Washington lurches from one fight to the next, with no end in sight. But the American public is not as polarized as the pundits say. While elected Republicans and Democrats appeal to their base, and are more divided than ever, the electorate has not changed dramatically in recent years. According to Pew Research and other pollsters, moderate independents outnumber either liberal Democrats or conservative Republicans. Stanford University political scientist Morris Fiorina confronts the widespread assumption that voters are neatly split into rival camps, and argues that neither party can hold a majority for more than a few years. His new book is "Unstable Majorities: Polarization, Party Sorting and Political Stalemate." We discuss solutions, including open primaries, weekend voting, easier voter registration and independent redistricting-- all designed to encourage citizen involvement in the political system. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, January 18, 2018
The Dangers Of Utopia: Michael Shermer
By overwhelming majorities, human beings have faith in the afterlife. While fewer Americans believe in God, as many as 80% still believe in life after death. Surprisingly, this includes one-in-three agnostics and atheists. According to the Roper Center for Public Opinion the numbers have stayed stable in recent decades. Does this human refusal to accept that all we have is the here-and-now lead to a dangerous belief in religious fantasies and utopia? Do we chase after myths while ignoring practical steps we could take now to improve life for ourselves and others? Our guest, Michael Shermer, is the publisher of Skeptic Magazine and the author of the new book "Heavens on Earth: The Scientific Search for the Afterlife, Immortality, and Utopia." Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson calls him "a beacon of reason in an ocean of irrationality." Michael walks us through efforts by "techno-optimists" to extend life hundreds of years into the future, from cryonic suspension-- efforts to freeze our brains with all of their neural connects and memories in tact-- to transhumanists, who want to transform us into super-humans. He is profoundly skeptical of these well-funded efforts, saying that all we have is the present. "Make today count," Michael tells us. "Make every relationship you have count. Make your interactions with community, strangers and society count in just a tiny little bit." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, January 10, 2018
Ending Sexual Harassment: Claire Cain Miller
The fight against sexual harassment was the hot topic in Hollywood at the Golden Globes Awards, with outspoken and inspiring remarks by Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon and others. But allegations of bullying or inappropriate behavior by powerful men are still being made almost every day. Despite widespread outrage, little focus has been given to effective measures that can be taken by employers to reduce the number of cases and improve the workplace environment. Our guest is journalist Claire Cain Miller, who writes about gender, families and the future of work for The Upshot, a New York Times site that covers policy and economics. She tells us what works and explains the challenges ahead in the fight for gender equality and respect. A recent survey found that nearly half of women said they had experienced some form of sexual harassment at work at least once in their careers. A 2015 study revealed that only one-quarter to a third of women who experience sexual harassment report it. Solutions : Empower bystanders to act, giving everyone the tools to help prevent harassment. Bystander training is still rare in corporate America, but it has been effectively used in the military and on college campuses. In some cases, direct action may work. One example was Charles Sonder, in the Snackman case, who disrupted a fight on a New York subway train by standing between a couple and loudly eating chips. Other examples of how to disrupt harassment: Drop a book, ask the victim to come to a conference room or if they want to get coffee. Talk to the victim to make sure she is OK, You might say: “I noticed that happened. Are you alright with that?” Encourage civility: The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission designed a program to create a culture of respect for everyone, such as spotlighting contributions by people who are marginalized. The program also offers helpful things to say in situations when you want to act but don’t know what to do. Claire Cain Miller says frequent workplace training programs can help. Employees and managers should be encouraged to report harassment. Professor Ian Ayres of Yale Law School has written "information escrows"-- creative and safer ways to help harassment victims who may fear that reporting wrongdoing to harm their careers. Among other potential solutions: Gender equity with more women in senior executive positions; greater diversity in occupations now dominated by either men or women; generous workplace and family leave policies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, December 27, 2017
What's Ahead in 2018: Richard and Jim's Forecast
2018 is certain to bring surprises. In this episode, Jim and Richard bravely venture out onto the high diving board of ideas and plunge into the pool of predictions. We also asked listeners and "How Do We Fix It?" guests for their forecasts of the year to come. Well-known author and skeptic Michael Shermer says "2018 will be the best year in the history of humanity as measured by health, longevity, medicine, technology, science and culture." Disruptive marketer and communications designer Geoff Colon tells us that "people are tired of how noisy the world has become. So I see more people deleting apps from their phones and spending less time in the Twitter-verse." Jim and Richard give their predictions on the 2018 mid-term elections and the new tax code (they go out on a limb here). Both forecast troubled days ahead for Facebook, Google and other giant internet firms, as they run into a buzz saw of criticism over their business practices. On the international stage, Richard predicts the U.S. will continue its recent retreat from diplomacy and be weaker as a result. China's strength will grow. Jim says U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley will be a shining star in the Republican party. What are your predictions? Go to Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Tell us what you think, using the hashtag #FixItForecasts. Our Twitter i.d. is @fixitshow. Find us at "How Do We Fix It?" on Facebook and Instagram. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, December 20, 2017
Food & Health: Science vs. Myth:The Science Moms
It's time to shift the narrative about food and health from fear to facts. Popular culture promotes all sorts of anti-scientific myths, from astrology and conspiracy theories to vaccine denial and misinformation about GMOs. On this episode our guest is "Science Mom" Kavin Senapathy, one of five mothers of young children who decided to collaborate on communication and push back against a conspiratorial mindset around biotechnology. They argue that there's an epidemic of bad science and fear-based marketing largely aimed at parents of young children. Kavin writes for Forbes and Slate. Other Science Moms are writers and working scientists with PhDs—in biology, genetics, neuroscience. The crowdfunded Science Moms documentary is available for download on the Science Moms website. On this episode, Jim, Richard and Kavin look at solutions, such as fighting back against hype and anti-science ideas with better education for children and adults. We examine how social media has weaponized debate, including attacks on academics who base their findings on careful research. Too often, science-minded parents are drowned out by shamers and "Celeb Moms" who make bogus claims about food and health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, December 13, 2017
Facebook and YouTube Threats: Zeynep Tufekci
Billions of people use Facebook and YouTube. But do social media platforms threaten our privacy and our freedom? The problem goes well beyond hate messages and other forms of inappropriate content, or fake news and "dark posts"— targeted ads not visible to the public. "The crucial problem here is we have no protections about the data that's collected," says our guest, Professor Zeynep Tufekci. "We have no protections about how that data is used and we have a business model where we are the product and not the customer." Zeynep is the author of the critically-acclaimed book, "Twitter and Tear Gas: The Power and Fragility of Networked Protest." At the University of North Carolina, she teaches a class: "Big Data, Algorithms and Society." "They have all our data...They control all the gatekeeping," Zeynep says of Facebook and other internet giants. "The threat that I fear is that we're building the infrastructure for a sort of soft authoritarianism." Much of the information these companies have collected on us is "sold to the highest bidders whatever they may be peddling." The ability of tech firms to spy on us, while nudging and seducing users into different forms of behavior, is constantly changing. "The past five years have been mind-blowing. We are growing a form of machine intelligence," says Zeynep. Unlike the past "this one is learning itself and we don't understanding how it's doing what it's doing." "How Do We Fix It?" is a solutions podcast. This episode examines potential remedies, including the need for greater corporate transparency, sunsetting data, government regulation and voluntary actions by Facebook and other big tech firms. Those of us who use social media sites should inform ourselves about how they work. This show is a good place to start. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, December 06, 2017
The Truth About Robots: Peter Cappelli
Once again the alarm bells are ringing. A new study by the McKinsey Global Institutes estimates that within 12 years, up to 800 million of today's workers may be replaced by robots or some other form of automation. Other recent research reports on the impact of technology are even more disturbing. A survey by PriceWaterhouseCoopers, the professional services company, claims 38% of U.S. jobs are at high risk of being replaced by robots and artificial intelligence over the next 15 years. But what if many experts are wrong? Peter Cappelli, Director for Human Resources at the Wharton School is our guest in this episode. His research is both contrarian and eye-opening. Peter has been named one of the most influential thinkers of the decade by HR Magazine, and is the author of "Why Good People Can't Get Jobs." In this episode, we discuss the paradox of the tax code, which gives incentives to companies to spend money on new technology INSTEAD of re-training workers. Peter also gives constructive insights into business culture and why it needs to change. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, November 30, 2017
Why Migration is Good: Leonard Doyle
What do you think of when you hear the word “refugee” or “migrant”? If over-crowded rafts or vast tent encampments come to mind, you are not alone. But there’s a very different— and much more positive side to migration. Across the world, record numbers of people are on the move in search of new opportunities and a better life. One solution to the vast increase in global migration is to gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges resulting from a more deeply connected world. Former journalist, Leonard Doyle,head of Media and Communications at the UN Migration agency IOM, is our guest. This episode discusses immigration reform, the surprising impact of Facebook and other social media platforms in promoting migration and the great contributions many migrants and refugees make to the new societies they join. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 21, 2017
A Fresh Look at Freedom: Russell Shorto
We discuss the American Revolution through six different pairs of eyes with acclaimed historian and journalist, Russell Shorto, author of the new book, "Revolution Song." This episode examines the meaning of freedom in a fresh new light and has special resonance during the week of Thanksgiving. As he did with "The Island at the Center of the World," which looked at the Dutch impact on Manhattan and the founding of the nation, this book examines American values, drawing deeply on diaries, letters and autobiographies to flesh out six important lives. They include an African-American man who freed himself and his family from slavery, a Seneca tribal warrior who became a wise and respected political leader, and George Washington himself. When he began working on "Revolution Song" six years ago, "I thought I was doing history," Russell tells us. "I thought these things were long ago settled. I didn't think I would be living in a time when freedom of the press, freedom of religion and freedom of speech would be even debatable or under attack." "The intertwined stories of "Revolution Song" give a sense of how far-reaching a phenomenon the War of Independence was," wrote a book reviewer recently in the New York Times. Russell Shorto makes the case that the Revolution is still being fought today and its ideals are worth defending. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, November 16, 2017
Fixes for Manufacturing: Krisztina "Z" Holly
This week we dismantle the myth that American manufacturing is in a death spiral. It’s not. Our guest is MIT-trained engineer and tech entrepreneur Krisztina “Z” Holly, host of the podcast, “The Art of Manufacturing." Even as factory jobs have declined, manufacturing growth has surged during the past three decades. Manufacturing production grew 2.9% in October compared to 2016, according to the Federal Reserve. From construction equipment to food products and semiconductors, manufacturers are riding a tide of business optimism. This episode looks at new innovations in manufacturing and how the future could be brighter. In addition to her popular podcast, Z is Founder & Chief Instigator of LA Mayor Garcetti’s "Make it in in LA" manufacturing initiative. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, November 08, 2017
#128 Solutions for America's Opioid Epidemic: Sam Quinones
America’s opioid epidemic is an addiction crisis like no other the country has ever faced. Deaths outnumber car crash fatalities. Since 1999, 200,000 people have died from overdoses related to Oxycontin and other prescription painkillers. The scourge is the result of a terrible double whammy: The relentless marketing of pain pills and the ruthless efficiency of drug pushers from one small Mexican town, who deliver heroin like takeout pizza. Our guest, Sam Quinones, author of the highly praised book "Dreamland: The True Tale of America's Opiate Epidemic," is our guide to this complex tragedy. We look at the roots of the epidemic and possible solutions. From innovative treatment programs in Kentucky jails to drug courts in Buffalo, New York that offer help for addicts, but also demand accountability, there are ways to reduce the immense pain, suffering and damage. "This issue allows us to come together as Americans," says Sam. "Every addict cannot go it alone. They need to be surrounded by services and people who can offer help." "We've destroyed community in this country in a million different ways and heroin is what you get when you do that." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, November 02, 2017
#127 The Threat to Democracy: Reed Galen
One year after the election of Donald Trump, American democracy is under threat. Our civic life is in a shambles. Our guest, Reed Galen, says America is a “dual-civilization society,” with each side viewing the other with suspicion, disgust and disdain. The guardrails of democracy are banged up. Some dents were made years ago — the result of dysfunction In Washington D.C. Others are the result of the President’s sustained attacks on Congress, the judiciary and a free press. In this episode we look at ways to narrow the gap — from non-partisan redistricting commissions and curbs on gerrymandering, to encouraging more independents to run for office. Political strategist Reed Galen was deputy campaign manager for Senator John McCain's Presidential campaign and worked in the George W. Bush White House. Earlier this year, Reed left the Republican Party and is now Chief Strategist at Serve America Movement. He works actively to narrow the great political divide and boost citizen involvement in civic life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, October 26, 2017
#126 Using Data To Predict the Future: Rebecca Costa
Can data be used to prevent mass shootings, dramatically reduce opioid addiction and tell elderly people that they about to fall? Our guest, Rebecca Costa, says it can. In this episode we look at why predictive analytics may be the most profound technological change in the past 15 years-- even more important than smartphones. In her new book, “On The Verge,” and on this podcast, Rebecca says we now have the power to predict the future, adapting in advance to changing conditions. She also tells us about the ideas raised on the popular radio show, “The Costa Report” and in her bestselling book, “The Watchman’s Rattle.” Predictive analytics depend on the ability to collect massive amounts of data, using algorithms to analyze seemingly random bits of information. We explore why all this is coming together now. One example being used by doctors today is predictive healthcare. Rebecca says that foresight and “fore action”will help human beings “assume our rightful place as aspiring Masters of the Universe.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, October 18, 2017
#125 The Harvey Weinstein Sex Scandal: What Next? Anne Thompson
The public downfall of film boss, Harvey Weinstein raises deep questions about the culture of Hollywood and its longstanding tolerance of sexual misbehavior by powerful men. Rumors about Weinstein's outrageous behavior had been an open secret in Hollywood for years. But Weinstein, a king of independent film, was able to cow the media, and had the power to break the careers of any women who dared go public with complaints. All that changed recently when a New York Times investigation uncovered dozens of allegations that Weinstein had engaged in rampant sexual harassment. A deeply reported article in The New Yorker included additional accounts of coercive behavior and sexual assaults on the part of the studio chief. Anne Thompson, Editor-at-Large for the movie-news site, Indiewire, is our guest. Anne is a veteran entertainment journalist who has worked for the Hollywood Reporter, Variety, and Entertainment Weekly. She's the author of the book, "The $11 Billion Year: From Sundance to The Oscars." This episode looks at why so many women spoke out now and outlines ways that the entertainment business—and other industries—can become less tolerant of abuse. We look at the explosive growth of the #metoo movement on social media and examine tools victims can use to fight back. Thompson argues that it is possible to change Hollywood's abusive culture and that the Weinstein scandal provides an opportunity for change. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, October 11, 2017
#124 Russia's Threat to U.S. Democracy: Amy Knight
How should the U.S. and other Western nations deal with Vladimir Putin and well-documented threats to democracy from the Russian government? What are the most effective ways to push back against hacking and other attacks? Ever since Vladimir Putin came to power, his critics have turned up dead on a regular basis. According to our guest, Amy Knight, this is no coincidence. In her book "Orders to Kill" and during this episode of "How Do We Fix It?", she exposes a campaign of political murder during Putin's reign that includes terrorist attacks such as the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013. Called "the West's foremost scholar of the KGB” by The New York Times, Amy Knight traces Putin's journey from the Federal Security Service (FSB) in the late 1990's to his rise to absolute power in the Kremlin. In this episode, we also explore President Trump's defense of Putin and his denial that the Russian leader has murdered opponents. Amy Knight explains why human rights groups in The West and Putin's brave and outspoken critics in Russia could weaken the Kremlin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, October 04, 2017
#123 Affirmative Action for Conservatives? Michael Roth
Are free speech rights threatened at universities? Is Attorney General Jeff Sessions correct when he says political correctness has run amok on college campuses? Conservatives point to the angry scenes at Middlebury College, where Charles Murray was shouted down, and demonstrations at University of California, Berkeley, which led to the cancelation of Free Speech Week, as alarming examples of intolerance. Liberals push back, saying that protests against neo-Nazis, racism, and those who denigrate other cultures are part of a proud tradition of resistance to hate. In this episode, Richard speaks with Wesleyan University President, Michael Roth, who wrote a recent article for the Wall Street Journal: "The Opening of the Liberal Mind:Affirmative action for the study of conservative ideas." Professor Roth makes a powerful argument in defense of free speech, especially for unpopular views. In the days after controversy erupted over President Trump's scathing criticism of NFL player protests during the national anthem, this debate has special resonance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, September 27, 2017
#122 Title IX and Sexual Assault: Jeannie Suk Gersen
Days ago, Education Secretary Betsy DeVos scrapped Obama-era Title IX rules on campus sexual assault, plunging herself into a furious controversy. This episode goes beyond name-calling and looks at how colleges and universities could improve their policies. "This harmful step in the wrong direction may cause survivors of sexual assault to go back into the shadows, Democratic Senator Patty Murray said of the DeVos guidance. The co-founder of the group, End Rape on Campus, Sofie Karasek, went further, claiming the aim of the new policy was “to protect those who ‘grab’ by the genitals and brag about it”. But Harvard Law Professor, Jeannie Suk Gersen, a longtime critic of the Obama Administration's 2011 letter to colleges and universities, wrote in NewYorker.com that if the DeVos statements "were made by a different official in a different Administration, they would seem rational, uncontroversial, and even banal." In this episode of "How Do We Fix It?," we discuss arguments over "rape culture" on college campuses and the need to be fair to both the accused and the accuser. We look at the difference between "preponderance of evidence" and "clear and convincing" evidence when judging Title IX cases. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, September 20, 2017
#121 Why We Need Stories and Myths: Stephen Greenblatt
Love him or loathe him, Donald Trump told a more compelling story about himself than his opponents. The 2016 election was, for his critics, a jarring reminder of the limits of limiting political rhetoric to detailed policies and programs. In this episode of "How Do We Fix It?", we explore the power of myths and legends: Why they are essential in making sense of life. Harvard Humanities professor Stephen Greenblatt is our guest. Using the origin story in the Bible, we discuss the enormous power of foundation stories to explain human fears, desires and morality. At their best the myths and legends we share with each other can bring our communities together in loyalty, love and solidarity. But at their worst they can lead us to believe in dangerous fantasies, setting off one group of people against "the other." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, September 13, 2017
#120 From Political Disgust to Action: Eric Liu
So many of us are furious at President Trump, Congress, EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt, The Democrats or the news media-- name your poison.Two thirds of Americans say they are dissatisfied with how things are going in this country today, compared with fewer than three-in-ten who are satisfied. This is a dramatic change from the 1990's, when most people had a positive view of national conditions.This show is an empowering response to anger and disgust. Eric Liu, founder and CEO of Citizen University, says that you're more powerful than you think. We discuss the stories, strategies and ideas raised in his timely book, "You're More Powerful Than You Think: A Citizen’s Guide to Making Change Happen"The key to fighting back successfully is to have a strategy and know how to read and write power,” but most people have no understanding of power and how to use it. “I think the reality of American life, right now, is that so many people have neither the motivation nor the ability to read or write power,” Eric tells us. “They lapse into this “House of Cards” or dark conspiratorial vision that all politics are like "Scandal,” and out of that are born people like Donald Trump as President.”Eric's solutions:Learn how power is organized. Instead of spending your life online, join others who share a similar passion for change.Exercise your "we muscle.”Join a club or group and learn how to work with others on game-changing ways to improve the odds for a cause or a hobby that you care about.Vote. In his book, Eric Liu writes that voter turnout (in general) is rarely above 60 percent (at best).Keep it local. Eric argues that too much attention is given to power politics in Washington D.C. Often the best way to bring about change is in the neighborhood or city where you live. Schools and colleges should improve civics education, giving students a much clearer understanding of grassroots democracy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, September 07, 2017
#119 A Conservative Cure for Climate Change: Bob Inglis
Climate scientists warn that Hurricanes Irma and Harvey are examples of extreme weather that will become much more common in the years to come. But Trump Administration officials ridicule any link between this month's devastating storms and global warming.Without a change of heart, most conservatives will continue to resist an overwhelming body of scientific evidence on climate change. Congress will fail to pass needed reforms.Enter former GOP Congressman Bob Inglis. He argues that while Republicans are part of the problem, they must be part of any solution. This small-government Christian conservative from South Carolina believes in a free-market answer to climate change. He supports a revenue-neutral carbon tax, combined with a cut in FICA - the fee paid by workers to pay for Social Security and Medicare."Until we hear the information from somebody we care about, it's hard for us to change our minds," says Inglis, who argues that respect rather than ridicule is the best way to win new converts. "If you get into the discussion and past the shouting we can find solutions," he tells "How Do We Fix It?" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, August 30, 2017
#118 After Harvey: Climate Change Insurance. Gernot Wagner
Is climate change to blame for Hurricane Harvey and the devastating floods around Houston? Even though we can't be certain about the cause of a single storm, Harvey's epic rainfall and surprisingly long duration remind us of the need for urgent action. In this edition of our solutions podcast, economist Gernot Wagner, executive director of Harvard University's Solar Geoengineeering Research Program, makes the case for market-based climate insurance: A fix that even skeptical conservatives could love. If there was a 10% chance of a tree falling on your house, you'd buy home insurance. Gernot says that's what the U.S. and every other nation must do to reduce global warming. His fix for the planet? Carbon pricing through a program of cap-and-trade that lets the market find the cheapest way to cut greenhouse gas emissions. Companies that exceed their emissions cap pay a penalty. Energy-efficient firms make money by selling their pollution allowances. Cap-and-trade can boost growth and jobs. California has designed its own system to reduce pollution as it makes a transition to a clean energy economy The weather is already changing. The daily surface temperature of the Gulf of Mexico this year is the warmest on record. When the sea warms, more water evaporates into the air, leading to greater rainfall. How do we help the victims of the Houston flood? This link has some smart suggestions. tags: environment, hurricanes, storms, Harvey, Houston, Gulf of Mexico, climate change, cap-and-trade, global warming, Environmental Defense Fund, EDF, EPA Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, August 23, 2017
#117 Is Hiking a Cure for PTSD? Sean Gobin
Can vets walk off the devastating impacts of PTSD? Do long-distance hiking, biking and river paddling journeys offer far better treatment for the emotional and psychological damage of war than pills or therapy offered by the VA? Sean Gobin is a United States Marine Corps veteran who served 12 years as an Infantry Rifleman and Armor Officer. He tells us his own personal story. After returning home from several deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, Sean hiked the 2,181-mile Appalachian Trail. In 2013, he founded Warrior Expeditions and now serves as the Chief Executive Officer. Since 2013, Warrior Expeditions has provided veterans with everything they need to complete a three to six month-long outdoor expedition at no cost. Their journeys offer them the opportunity to decompress from military service and come to terms with wartime experiences. Participants have reported significant improvements in physical, mental, and social well-being during and after their journeys. Warrior Expeditions outfits veterans with some of the most highly rated equipment and clothing available from the outdoor retail industry. Participants get a monthly $300 stipend to purchase what they need. Community support is an important part of the program, with volunteers offering vets transportation, lodging, and food along the route. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, August 17, 2017
#116 The Case for Passion in Our Lives
Neil deGrasse Tyson became passionate about astrophysics when he was a teenager. Best-selling science journalist Mary Roach is well-known for her humor and curiosity as she explores the science of keeping human beings intact, sane and awake during the extreme circumstances of war. This "Fix It" episode is about passion and is inspired by our many guests. They bring their wisdom, emotion and enthusiasm with them as they describe what turns them on about their work and expertise. Obstetrician-gynocologist Rose Gowen, born and raised in Brownsville, Texas, speaks about her mission to get her small city with a large obesity problem to exercise more and eat better food. "Pretty much all of my father's side of our family has diabetes," she says. Emily Esfahani Smith's passion for learning from strangers prompted her to write the book "The Power of Meaning: Crafting a Life That Matters. She talks about the roots of her discoveries. Author, investment expert and asset manager Karen Firestone has spent her professional life studying financial risk. She explains why risk "applies to other aspects of life beyond investing." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, August 09, 2017
#115 Refugees Are Just Like You: Ahmed Badr
Far too often refugees are thought of as "the other"-- a mass of people who are victims of war, persecution or natural disasters. President Trump has added to the problem, making negative, harsh comments about immigrants.This episode with 19 year-old Iraqi-American refugee Ahmed Badr, looks at how to fix the way we view refugees and migrants. We look at their personal stories and what they bring to enrich the lives of the communities where they now live.Through writing about his own life, Ahmed, now a student at Wesleyan University, realized that his blog helped others see him in a more personal light. Today, he is empowering others to do the same. His art and poetry site, Narratio, is a growing platform where young people from around the world use creative expression to share their unique experiences. Ahmed is also the host of "Together", a soon-to-be released podcast about refugees and migrants."I've learned other people tell their story versus just telling my own," says Ahmed. "A global citizen is someone who is willing to entertain the other side, no matter how much the other side hurts us to listen to or witness."Ahmed was 7 when his family's home in Baghdad was bombed during the violent aftermath of the invasion of Iraq. The family was uninjured and moved to Syria. In 2008, they came as refugees to the U.S. through a resettlement program run by IOM -- the U.N. migration agency. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, August 03, 2017
#114 Grunt: The Science of Humans at War - Mary Roach
When do fashion designers make the difference between comfort and misery for active soldiers? Why does the military need a radically different kind of crash test dummy? What role could maggots play in healing open wounds? These questions and more are answered by best-selling science journalist, Mary Roach, author of "Grunt: The Curious Science of Humans at War." In this audio tour of duty we go beyond war's battlefields, bombs and bands of brothers to hear why scientists, doctors, researchers and designers do vital work tackling the armed force's most persistent adversaries: heat, disease, exhaustion and noise. The heroes Mary Roach writes about do their work quietly behind-the-scenes, improving the odds that troops who go to war come back alive. Mary has been called "America's funniest science writer" by the Washington Post. In the words of a British reviewer, she "has specialized in tackling the uncomfortable, and at the heart of every book is her desire to explore the places from which we recoil." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, July 26, 2017
#113 America's Male Unemployment Crisis: Ed Glaeser
Here's a paradox. While the U.S. unemployment rate is near a 16-year low, the percentage of all American adults in the workforce remains stuck at well below pre-recession levels.Men are much more likely than women to drop out of work. In the 1960's 95% of adult men between 25 and 54 were employed. Today, after 7 years of an improving job market, only 80% are in the workforce.People who don't look for a job are not counted in the official unemployment statistics compiled by the Labor Department. Harvard University Professor Edward Glaeser says "there's a war on work." Taxation, housing, regulatory and social policies aimed at improving the lives of low income Americans, he says, often remove incentives for people to get a job. We based our episode on the findings and solutions suggested in Ed's article for City Journal-- "The War on Work and How to End It." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, July 19, 2017
#13 Fix It Shorts: Why Fixing Health Care Is So Hard
"It's back to square one" says the Wall Street Journal after the collapse of Republican proposals to repeal and replace The Affordable Care Act. President Trump says his plan is to "let Obamacare fail." This episode looks at how any reform of America's healthcare system - whether by Republicans or Democrats - is so difficult. Whether it's controlling costs, rationing care or extending coverage to all, there are no easy answers. Today, the future of healthcare is uncertain and coverage for many millions of people hangs in the balance.Our guest, Megan McArdle, a columnist at Bloomberg View explains why The Affordable Care Act is flawed and that many consumers have misconceptions about the true costs of health insurance. "What people are doing is they're gaming the system," she says about those who have moved in and out of healthcare marketplaces. When an illness or medical emergency strikes, many people without employer-based health coverage are "signing up for a few months, using a ton of services and then dropping it again."Jim and Richard debate the future of healthcare from different perspectives. While Jim argues for a more free-market approach, Richard says the only way that a system of universal coverage can work is if everyone has to sign up for coverage, however unpopular that may be. "The penalties for not having insurance should be greater than they were under the Obama Administration," he says.Megan McArdle is the author of "The Upside of Down: Why Failing Well Is The Key To Success." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, July 12, 2017
#12 Fix It Shorts: The Case for Going Outdoors
Going outdoors and taking on new challenges makes you healthier, happier and smarter. Spending time in nature away from cities and suburbs can also bring spiritual and emotional benefits. Co-host Jim Meigs tells us why he's a big outdoor guy, who loves to hike, bike and head for the hills. In this episode we look at ways to add adventure to your life and embrace the excitement of leaving your comfort zone. Kio Stark, author of "When Strangers Meet: How People You Don't Know Can Transform You," explains why meeting people you don't know can have genuine emotional benefits. Even brief chance encounters, she says, can make a difference to how you view the world. We also discuss cycling in cities with Nicole Gelinas of The Manhattan Institute. She tells us about ways to improve urban safety for bikers, pedestrians and motorists. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, July 05, 2017
#11 Fix It Shorts: Is Summer Fun Under Assault? Lenore Skenazy
Lenore Skenazy of Free Range Kids makes the case for carefree summer activities and unstructured play time-- arguing against those who put safety fears ahead of a child's need to explore, be curious and grow."If You're a Kid, the Experts Want You to Have a Fun-Free Summer" is the title of a recent article by Lenore.Summer is a time to "dig in the sand, gulp from the hose, play at the park, and leap with joy," writes Lenore. "Unless you're a kid-- in which case, find yourself a comfy sofa in a dark, quiet room and settle in."Parents are bombarded with safety messages from the American Academy of Pediatrics, Parenting Magazine and other well-intentioned sites, which give urgent warnings about the hazards of summer. Their advice, says Lenore, is "don't have fun, it's too dangerous."Find out why being safety obsessed comes at a heavy price. Worried parents risk robbing their children of curiosity about the world and pride in their own achievements. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, June 28, 2017
#109 Secrets of Your Stuff: Mover, Finn Murphy
Are you too attached to your stuff? Do you have a big move coming up?Long-haul trucker, Finn Murphy has covered more than a million miles of packing, loading and hauling people's material possessions all across the country. In this episode he shares his insights into the moving business, truckers, his many customers and how American households have changed in recent years.Finn is the author of "The Long Haul: A Trucker's Tales of Life on the Road," a wise, vivid and charming account of his years in the business. His book gives a penetrating look into the lives of big-rig drivers and the people they move.More than 35 million Americans move house every year. Finn has intelligent advice on how to avoid moving scams, the best way to pick a mover and when finding a new place to live might not bad a smart move. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, June 21, 2017
#108 Big Data & STEM, Overrated? Scott Hartley
In our age of big data Liberal Arts smarts are undervalued. Our guest, Scott Hartley, argues that the most valuable jobs skills in the future will belong to people who can think creatively, using emotional intelligence and adaptability. Scott is a venture capitalist and author of "The Fuzzy and the Techie: Why the Liberal Arts Will Rule the Digital World." At Stanford University, where he studied political science, fuzzies majored in the humanities or social sciences. Techies took computer science or STEM courses. Many in the business world still believe that it's the techies who drive innovation. In his contrarian book (we love contrarians!) Scott reveals the counterintuitive reality today: it's actually the fuzzies - not the techies - who are playing key roles developing the most successful new business ideas. Corporate leaders, educators and thinkers are starting to realize that to tackle some of the world's biggest technological challenges, we need people who understand human emotions and behavior. We unpack Scott’s argument, looking at examples of innovative fuzzy thinking, from Steve Jobs to Mark Zuckerberg and beyond. Our solutions look at new ideas for business, universities, government and parents. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, June 14, 2017
#107 How Trust Can Save Journalism: Aron Pilhofer
Journalism is in crisis. Our trust in the news media has fallen to an all-time low. One recent poll found that two thirds of Americans believe mainstream news organizations often publish fake news. The business model at many newspapers, magazines, radio stations and websites is failing. Declining revenues have forced layoffs and other cutbacks at news organizations across the country. Professor Aron Pilhofer of Temple University, one of the world's most respected experts in digital innovation for journalists, is our guest. Before joining Temple, Aron was Executive Editor of Digital journalism at the Guardian in London and was a former senior executive at the New York Times."It's impossible to overemphasize what a vast change there is now in the way people get their information," Aron tells us. For his young students at Temple, the news "finds them" through their feeds at Facebook, Twitter and other social sites. The news is not handed down from high. Instead, it's part of a conversation. Aron says regaining readers' trust is essential to the future of journalism. Covering "what now" of news - solutions - is one answer. Greater transparency in how stories are covered and a much deeper commitment to diversity in newsrooms are among the fixes we discuss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, June 07, 2017
#106 Defusing The Prison Population Bomb: John Pfaff
Today, about 2.2 million Americans are behind bars. "The incarceration rate is about five times the rate of 1970 and our crime rate is the same as in 1970,"John Pfaff, our guest, tells us.Our guest, John Pfaff of Fordham University is both a law professor and an economist. Author of "Locked In: The True Causes of Mass Incarceration—and How to Achieve Real Reform," he says state and local policies matter far more than changes in the federal system.Do you want to know more? Check out our website: http://www.howdowefixit.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, June 01, 2017
#105 Road To Disaster: VW Emissions Scandal Jack Ewing
It isn't just the crime. It's also the cover-up. Volkswagen's multi-year conspiracy to evade pollution rules may be the biggest scandal in auto industry history.The world's second largest car manufacturer misled regulators, consumers, and motorists. Our guest is New York Times Germany correspondent, Jack Ewing, author of "Faster, Higher, Farther: The Volkswagen Scandal." The book tells the remarkable story of a very dysfunctional company and how the scandal unfolded.Do you want to know more? Check out our website: http://www.howdowefixit.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, May 24, 2017
#104 Are Credit Cards Evil? Beverly Harzog
Are credit cards evil? Do you need to restructure debt or were refused a loan? If so, this episode is for you.If you're a parent looking for smart money advice to pass onto young adults as they enter the workforce, our podcast has a checklist of do's and don'ts.Respected credit card expert and consumer advocate Beverly Harzog is our guest. Beverly hasn't just talked the talk about maxing out on debt, she's walked the walk. In her best-selling book, “Confessions of a Credit Junkie", she tells her personal comeback story.Look for solutions and links to useful sites at our website, howdowefixit.me. Please rate and review our shows at iTunes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, May 17, 2017
#103 Neil deGrasse Tyson: Science Deniers & Wonders of the Universe Pt. 2
Tyson talks about the possibility of intelligent life on other planets, tackles science deniers on the right and left, and explains why we should invest more in pure science. Tyson also discusses his new book, "Astrophysics for People in a Hurry.”"What's curious to me is you have the liberal community claiming the (moral) high road ...against the science deniers of the right with regard to global warming and evolution in the classrooms... as though they are somehow untainted by non-scientific thinking,” Tyson tells us. "There is a whole portfolio of science denying that also happens in the liberal left."Investments in pure science led to many remarkable breakthroughs in medicine, technology and physics - often decades after the research began. Following the discovery of quantum physics in the 1920's, "it would take forty to fifty years before we would see the rise of information technology," says Tyson. "There is no information technology without an understanding of quantum physics."Tyson also discusses his sense of awe and wonder about the secrets of the cosmos."You can't be a scientist and have discomfort with not knowing," he tells us. "When there is a frontier that's unexplored, where there are stupefying depths of ignorance, it excites you. It gets you out of bed in the morning and running to the lab." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, May 10, 2017
#102 Neil deGrasse Tyson: Space, The Universe and The Case for Science, Pt.1
Neil deGrasse Tyson, America’s most prominent spokesman for science and Director of New York City’s Hayden Planetarium, talks about the benefits of a cosmic perspective, the case for manned space flight and much more in this first part of our wide-ranging conversation. We also discussed Tyson's new book, "Astrophysics for People in a Hurry." Richard and Jim met Tyson at his offices at The American Museum of Natural History. While insisting he is not an advocate for manned space flight, Tyson says "history tells us" space exploration "is one of the most potent forces to operate on the scientific ambitions of a citizenry." At the height of the Apollo program in the 1960's, "you didn't need special programs to get people interested in science," Tyson explains. "There were weekly headlines about our journeys into space and you knew you needed the best of the best to breech the frontier of space." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, May 04, 2017
#10 Fix It Shorts: What We Learned in Our First 100 episodes
For Jim and Richard "How Do We Fix It? has been a great big learning experience. From how to switch careers to the search for meaning and the importance of speaking to strangers, our guests have proposed many smart, practical solutions. And they've also challenged conventional wisdom.Our podcast invites listeners to get into their discomfort zone as a way of being more receptive to change. Jim starts this show revealing what he learned from David McRaney, host of "You Are Not So Smart," - a podcast about psychology. David told us about our deep attachment to confirmation bias - where most of us try to confirm our views, rather than challenging ourselves with an opposing hypothesis. As someone who admits he knows little about science, Richard says he has learned about the scientific method from several guests, including Ainissa Ramirez and Michael Shermer. In the lab, scientists routinely test and try to disprove a theory before they embrace it as fact.Some Fix It episodes were ahead of the curve. John Gable, Joan Blades, Geoff Colon and other guests raised the alarm about filter bubbles and online information silos well before Mark Zuckerberg and other Silicon Valley executives voiced their concerns.Last year, Megan McArdle, a columnist at Bloomberg View, spoke to us about the tangled problems of fixing Obamacare months before before President Trump and House Republicans realized how hard it be to "repeal and replace" without a massive fight. We also heard from Steve Hilton, former personal advisor to British Prime Minister David Cameron. He made the pro-European case for Brexit in a surprising and enlightened way.Richard tells Jim: "I've learned a lot from you," declaring himself to be a "thorough convert" to Jim's conviction that we romanticize the past and catastrophize the present. Richard has also come over to Jim's view that the challenge to free speech on college campuses is a much more serious problem than many believe.Now on to the next 100 shows. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, April 26, 2017
#100 The Myth of Main Street, Louis Hyman
Our guest is Louis Hyman, author of the provocative New York Times editorial, "The Myth of Main Street." Louis is a Cornell University History Professor and the Director of the Institute for Workplace Studies. Nostalgia for the economy's "good old days" has great appeal for many Americans.For the right, past decades bring back memories of Ronald Reagan, traditional cultural values and U.S. dominance in global affairs. For the left, post-war America was a time of stronger unions and less income inequality.But "Make America Great Again" and other appeals to nostalgia come at a high price. Going back to a past with trade barriers, price controls and lower productivity would damage the living standards of many households they're designed to protect.Want to hear what solutions Louis Hyman suggested? Visit out website: howdowefixit.me Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, April 19, 2017
#99 How Our Minds Heal Our Bodies: Jo Marchant
Have you ever felt a surge of adrenaline after a bike ride, working in the back yard or going to the gym? Salivated at the sight of a sour lemon? Felt turned on by your partner’s voice? If so, says scientific journalist Jo Marchant, you’ve experienced how the workings of the mind can affect your body.In this episode we look at the mind's potential to ease pain, reduce anxiety and even cut the risk of infection, heart disease and other serious medical ailments. Jo discusses how the latest findings in mind-body research: How hypnotherapy, mindfulness techniques, Virtual Reality and social connections can play important roles in healing and prevention.More than one in three Americans have turned to alternative medicine. But do homeopathy, acupuncture and other therapies actually work? What does science say about the use of placebos in medicine?"I believe very strongly in an evidence- based approach that we have to investigate things in a scientific way," Jo tells us in this episode. "On the other hand I also started to feel that science has a bit of blind spot when it comes to the role of the mind in health."Jo Marchant discusses the findings of her New York Times best-selling book "Cure: A Journey Into The Science of Mind Over Body." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, April 12, 2017
#98 You're More Powerful Than You Think: Eric Liu
If you're disillusioned, depressed or downright furious at the state of politics today, this episode is for you.Eric Liu, founder and CEO of Citizen University, says that you're more powerful than you think. We discuss the stories, strategies and ideas raised in his timely new book.The key to fighting back successfully is to have a strategy and know how to read and write power,” but most people have no understanding of power and how to use it. Political illiteracy is one reason we feel so powerless. “I think the reality of American life, right now, is that so many people have neither the motivation nor the ability to read or write power,” Eric tells us. “They lapse into this “House of Cards” or dark conspiratorial vision that all politics are like "Scandal,” and out of that are born people like Donald Trump as President.” Look for solutions and links to useful sites at our website, howdowefixit.me. Please rate and review our shows at iTunes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, April 05, 2017
#9 Fix It Shorts Productivity: Charles Duhigg's Top 4 Tips
This episode highlights four key productivity fixes from New York Times Pulitzer Prize winner Charles Duhigg. His most recent book is "Smarter, Faster, Better: The Secrets of Being Productive in Life and In Business." Charles is also the author of "The Power of Habit."Using cutting-edge science, reporting and real-life stories, Charles explains why being productive isn't just about daily habits, routines and lists. "Keeping your eye on that thing that matters most to you is the secret to success," Charles tells us. "We need a mental model: a story we tell ourselves about how we expect our day to unfold."Look for solutions and links to useful sites at our website, howdowefixit.me. Please rate and review our shows at iTunes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, March 29, 2017
#96 Robots Are Not Coming For Your Job, Pt 2: Peter Cappelli
How can we save good jobs?In part one (Episode #95); we talked to Peter Cappelli, of the Wharton School, about the threat of robots and automation to our workforce. In part 2 Peter explained why this threat is misplaced and he had suggested solutions for the US workforce.Look for solutions and links to useful sites at our website, howdowefixit.me. Please rate and review our shows at iTunes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, March 22, 2017
#95 Robots Are Not Coming For Your Job: Peter Cappelli
Here's one less thing to worry about: robots are not going to take your job.Despite the dire predictions of analysts, workplace experts and the government, the impact of robotics and automation on employment may be hugely overstated.Professor Peter Cappelli, the Director of the Center for Human Resources at the Wharton School is our guest. He has written for The Atlantic, The New Yorker Magazine, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and Forbes Magazine. Peter was recently named one of the “Most Influential Thinkers of the Decade,” by HR Magazine. In this episode Peter explains why we should challenge conventional wisdom about the impact of automation. For more information visit our website http://www.howdowefixit.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, March 15, 2017
#94 A Vital Fix for the Media: David Bornstein
The news media is under fierce attack from President Trump; White House Strategist, Steve Bannon; and many other critics.While many claims against the press are overblown, now is a good time to look at arguments for constructive change. We decided to re-air our interview with New York Times journalist David Bornstein, co-founder of SolutionsJournalismNetwork.orgDavid says that solutions journalism focuses on what works now as potential solutions. Using the best available evidence, solutions journalism delves deep into the how-to’s of problem solving, often structuring stories as puzzles or mysteries that investigate problems. One recent example: Initiatives that show success in reducing the dropout rate in public schools. Reporters looked at how these programs work. What are successful school systems doing differently that result in better outcomes? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, March 08, 2017
#93 Emily Esfahani Smith: The Power of Meaning
Are you happy? If not, perhaps you’re asking yourself the wrong question.Our culture is obsessed with happiness - a right that’s enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. But living a life of meaning, instead of the pursuit of happiness, may bring much deeper, longer-lasting satisfaction, says our guest, Emily Esfahani Smith, author of "The Power of Meaning Crafting a Life That Matters. In 2013, comedian Louis C.K. struck a nerve when he spoke of the human condition on the Conan O’Brian show. “Underneath everything there’s that thing - that empty forever.” The video clip from the “Conan” show went viral with more than 12 million views on You Tube. We look at solutions for that “empty forever life.”For more information: solutions and links to useful sites go to our website, howdowefixit.me. Please rate and review our shows at iTunes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, March 01, 2017
Fix It Shorts #8. Immigrants: Great for the Economy!
When did the arguments for free trade and the benefits of immigration go out of fashion?Why is the case for scaling back the power of the financial industry under attack by the Trump administration? Richard and Jim spoke to three experts for this episode of “Fix It Shorts.” Rana Foroohar, explains why the power of Wall Street distorts the economy. “The key lessons of the crisis of 2008 still remain unlearned,” she says. “Our financial system is just as vulnerable as ever.” Rana is the author of "Makers and Takers: The Rise of Finance and the Fall of American Business," She is also the Associated Editor and the Global Business Columnist for the Financial Times."One of the prizes, one of the treasures of democracy is freedom of thought, freedom of action, freedom of movement," says Peter Coy, Economics Editor of Bloomberg Businessweek. He argues that immigration, especially legal immigration of skilled workers, is a plus for the economy.Economist Ruchir Sharma, author of the book “The Rise and Fall of Nations - Forces of Change in the Post-Crisis World,” tells us that expanding the workforce is a vital part of growth. Reducing immigration, he says, would slam the brakes on the economy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, February 23, 2017
#91 Geoffrey Colon: Pay-to-Play: A Menace to Society?
Do you know where your information is coming from? Shadowy forces are at work to influence what we think, how we behave, and where we spend our money.They're part of the explosion in pay-to-play. From bots and branded content to political-influence peddlers’, advertisers and even sports programs in public schools, pay-to-play is a growing influence in our lives. Critics of pay-to-play say that instead of "We the people,” the online world is controlled by "We the wealthiest people.” Geoffrey Colon, an expert on marketing, tech and how to get people's attention, is our guest. A communications designer at Microsoft, Geoffrey is the author of "Disruptive Marketing - What Growth Hackers, Data Punks and Other Hybrid Thinkers Can Teach Us About Navigating the New Normal." He's the co-host with Cheryl Metzger of the popular podcast, Disruptive FM.We learn more about the threat from fake news and hate sites alt-right bots to our democracy. Geoffrey guides through some of the recent dizzying changes in the online landscape. Look for solutions and links to useful sites at our website, howdowefixit.me. Please rate and review our shows at iTunes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, February 16, 2017
#90 David Greenberg: President Trump and The History of Spin
Does Donald Trump lie more than previous presidents? In the history of political spin, how does the Trump administration stack up? Presidents have always used spin and propaganda to skirt the truth, but the Trump administration has made it especially hard for citizens to remain informed. The easiest example of this was when Kellyanne Conway, the Counselor to the President, used the term “alternative facts” to defend a false statement by the White House Press Secretary. In this episode we look at how Presidential propaganda, messaging or spin has changed over the decades.David Greenberg is our guest and the author of "Republic of Spin - An Inside History of the American Presidency.” David argues that Teddy Roosevelt was responsible for the birth of modern Presidential spin more than one hundred years ago. Trump is part of a tradition that began with Roosevelt: Mark Twain saw Roosevelt as “The Tom Sawyer of the political world.” Unlike his predecessors, Roosevelt appealed directly to the public, to give him more authority to roll out an ambitious agenda. Roosevelt hired press agents, held press stunts, and informal press conferences. When he left office, there was no turning back. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, February 08, 2017
#89 Shearly Markowicz: Online Dating: Why It Works
Valentine’s Day is almost here, so we invited Dating Ring CEO Shearly Markowicz to talk about the company and give advice how to find love online. Dating Ring first came to fame when it was profiled by the Gimlet podcast, "StartUp.”Online dating has lost its stigma and gone mainstream. But do these sites really work? According to the Pew Research Center, six in ten people say online dating is a good way to meet people. But Consumer Reports’ gave online dating sites the lowest satisfaction scores the magazine has seen for any rated service in two decades - even lower than cable TV companies!Her company is a hybrid, part data, and part human matchmaker. Dating Ring uses the algorithms used by online dating sites, but then a matchmaker steps in to help refine the process. “We really try to bring the human element in, because that's what I think is lacking in the other dating sites," says Shearly. "We meet with people and get to know their personalities"Her company is a hybrid - part data, part human matchmaker. Dating Ring uses the algorithms used by online dating sites, but then a matchmaker steps in to help refine the process. "We really try to bring the human element in because that's what I think is lacking in the other dating sites," says Shearly. "We meet with people and get to know their personalities"Look for solutions and links to useful sites at our website, howdowefixit.me. Please rate and review our shows at iTunes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, February 02, 2017
#88 The New Brooklyn: Bringing Cities Back: Kay Hymowitz
In his inaugural address, Donald Trump gave a grim description of American cities, speaking of "carnage" and "rusted out factories.” But the reality is far different in many urban centers.Our guest is Kay Hymowitz of The Manhattan Institute, author of "The New Brooklyn: What It Takes To Bring a City Back." Kay has lived in Park Slope, Brooklyn since 1981. She gives a first-hand account of Brooklyn's transformation from high crime and deindustrialization in the 60's, 70's and 80's to the borough's comeback in the last two decades.Kay says, “Brooklyn, which was once a major factory town, peaked in 1950—in terms of manufacturing power. In recent decades we've seen a rise of "a different kind of economy." Before the hipsters and tech startups, there was an expansion in government, healthcare and legal jobs. From education, tech innovation and new forms of business to public transportation and rezoning, this show looks at how the new Brooklyn took shape and how this story can help other cities.Look for solutions and links to useful sites at our website, howdowefixit.me. Please rate and review our shows at iTunes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, January 25, 2017
#87 Taxes: How to Avoid an Audit, Get a Refund, and Don't Panic
Do you dread filing your taxes? We simplify the process and break it down into simple steps so you can avoid costly mistakes and even an audit. You might even get back hundreds of dollars in refunds. Our guest on this podcast is certified tax accountant, Janice Hayman, who calls herself a "tax therapist" for many of her clients. We learn which tax credits and deductions millions of taxpayers miss when they file their returns. Why dealing with the Internal Revenue Service is often a lot easier and less intimidating than many people fear. And how to avoid falling for the most common tax scams.This show is being released at the start of the 2016 tax-filing season. Now is the time to start collecting all those W2s, 1099s and other forms you will need to ensure that you are ready before the April 15th deadline.For specific solutions go to our website: howdowefixit.me Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, January 18, 2017
#86 Farai Chideya: Re-think Your Career. Find a New Job
Have you spent your life switching careers? So has former NPR host, professor, and journalist Farai Chideya. It’s the new normal —- the episodic career.Can you build a career with a non-traditional work history?How do you find a rewarding career in the new world of work?How can you thrive and prosper in a jobs market disrupted by technology and globalism? These questions are answered in this podcast. Our guest is well-known journalist, professor, author and former NPR host, Farai Chideya, author of “The Episodic Career”. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average job in the U.S. lasts 4.6 years, a far cry from an era when a large percentage of the workforce could expect to stay with their current employer for decades. Farai tells us why resiliency, lifelong learning, plus understanding how your skills relate to the needs of the employment market are the three pillars of a successful career. Look for solutions and links to useful sites at our website, howdowefixit.me. Please rate and review our shows at iTunes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, January 11, 2017
#85 Why We're Fooled by Con Artists: Maria Konnikova
Have you ever been the victim of a con artist? Very often we fall for cons ourselves without being aware of it. We speak with journalist and psychologist Maria Konnikova, best-selling author of “The Confidence Game:" Through storytelling and science, she explains the mind of the con artist and what makes the rest of us so susceptible. Con artists are everywhere. Since 2008 the number of reported cases of consumer fraud have shot up 60%. Online cases have doubled. Billions of dollars are lost each year in scams. Maria Konnikova explains how con artists target us and why we fall for it.Find out how you can avoid being the victim of a con artist. Go to our website www.howdowefixit.me Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, January 05, 2017
#84 Smart Solutions for The New Year
Fresh thinking for the New Year: In 2016 we were exposed to a dazzling range of smart, practical ideas from our podcast guests - from climate change and money matters, healthcare reform, to making room for strangers in our lives. In this show we start with Rebecca Jarvis, Chief Business, Economics and Technology Correspondent for ABC News. One of her smart money resolutions for the New Year is to be skeptical. Watch out for the know-it-alls and outright charlatans of investing, who pretend to understand how to beat the market. Rebecca also urges borrowers to be aware of the full costs of personal debt. The need to be wary of simplistic slogans and fixes is at the heart of global economist Ruchir Sharma's book, "The Rise and Fall of Nations.” His solution? Look beyond the headlines to long-term trends. Slower growths in the workforce and immigration rates have a big impact on prosperity and growth. In the excerpt from our show on nuclear power, Michael Shellenberger, author of An Ecomodernist Manifesto, challenges the views of many environmentalists. He says nuclear is a crucial source of energy that "produces zero air and water pollution." "At the end of the day everybody is biased," says John Gable, who joined us to explain the thinking behind AllSides.com. This news website comes with a left/ center/ right column - showing readers how major events are interpreted by liberal, conservative and centrist media. John urges us to confront our own biases and filter bubbles as we separate truth from fake news.One forecast for 2017: due to the squabbling in Washington DC, over the role of federal government more solutions will be local. We spoke with obstetrician-gynecologist Rose Gowen, a City Commissioner in Brownsville, Texas. She told us how she was able to reduce high obesity rates using grants, a farmers market and bike trails and other local initiatives. Pulitzer-prize winning author, and New York Times journalist,Charles Duhigg talks about how we can improve our bad habits and become smarter, faster, and better. In this clip, we discuss to-do lists, mental models and making the most of our time - in life and in business. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, December 29, 2016
#83 Best Moments of 2016
Alan Dershowitz on Trump; what an Islamic fundamentalist learned in an Egyptian jail; plus a tenured professor explained why she quit her job—trigger warning ahead. No doubt about it - the nomination and election of Donald Trump was the biggest, most surprising news story of 2016. At the start of this show we get two fascinating takes on the Trump story from a marketing man and a Harvard Professor. For decades Alan Dershowitz has been on the front lines in the fight for civil liberties. He also has a refreshing take on the Trump phenomenon. "He was unpredictable: somebody who gave some people hope that maybe things won't be the same," says Dershowitz. British marketing expert Mark Earls, made a second visit to our podcast, told us that emotion and identity play far greater roles in our voting decisions than many of us realize." We imagine that people consider in something as important as politics the pros and cons and the policy, but we don’t. We spoke to Karen Firestone, the author of Even the Odds, about the time she met the famous advice columnist, Anne Landers, on a plane. The advice Landers gave Firestone changed her life. Find out why. Do you like talking to strangers on planes, or talking to strangers? If the answer is no, then listen to Kio Stark (TED author and speaker) explain why we all need to spend more time talking to strangers. Joan Blades tells us how she brings progressives and Tea Party supporters together for Living Room Conversations. Historian Alice Dreger, author of "Galileo's Middle Finger", reveals her personal fight for academic freedom and why it cost her a job at a prestigious university.As a young Muslim man in Britain, Maajid Nawaz joined a global Islamist group. Jailed in Egypt in 2001, Maajid began an extraordinary personal journey. In this episode he describes his transformation towards liberal, democratic values as a secular Muslim. Today, Maajid is an active counter-extremist and founding Chairman of Quilliam - a global organization focusing on integration, religious freedom, citizenship and identity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, December 22, 2016
#82 Lessons from the World's Best Schools: Lucy Crehan
What we can learn from the best education systems in the world? A lot.We learn about PISA - The Program for International Student Assessment - and why this international test on math, science and reading has disturbing results for U.S. schools. We interviewed British teacher Lucy Crehan, author of the breakthrough book, "Cleverlands", went on a remarkable journey to Finland, Asia and Canada, to study the world’s best schools. We find out why a simple question from a student in her science class, “Miss, why do we sneeze?" sent Lucy on a two-year quest to learn how to improve schools. Playful, enthusiastic, and full of common sense, "Cleverlands" is a personal story, an adventure, and a how-to book on how everyone can improve children’s education. Lucy paints a picture of school life, making sense of the theories and data through the stories of teachers and children. Solutions:- Get children ready for formal learning. Early education is important but don’t focus on academic skills. The most effective programs build motivation, character, and cognitive skills through playful learning. - Play is very important; children develop skills through play, such as self-regulation, planning and language development. One of the top performing school systems don't begin formal academic instruction until age 7. - Let children take breaks. 4 out of the 5 school systems Lucy studied had 10–15 minute breaks between every lesson. - Encourage children to take on challenges rather than making concessions: Delay dividing students into different classes based on ability until age until 15.- Emphasize the importance of effort rather than intelligence. It’s easier for children to tackle a challenge if they believe they can change the outcome through hard work. - Combine school accountability with school support. Instead of punishing "bad" schools, provide more help and examples from successful educators and schools.- State and local boards of education should design a curriculum with a set of principals rather than detailed instructions for every week of the school year. This gives teachers greater job satisfaction, more autonomy and freedom to motivate students to do their best. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, December 14, 2016
#81 Rana Foroohar: Wall Street's Giant Threat to the Economy
More than eight years after the financial meltdown, we still have a lot to learn, says our guest, CNN global economic analyst Rana Foroohar. "The rise of finance has actually kind of eaten the rest of the economy," Rana tells this in this "Fix It" episode. "Finance controls the rest of industry. Finance has become the tail that wags the dog." At the same time, the financial industry remains at risk for another hugely destructive collapse. In her book, "Makers and Takers: The Rise of Finance and the Fall of American Business", Rana says only 15% of all the money in financial markets ends up in the real economy in the form of loans to help grow business. The rest is traded and shuffled around the financial system. "Finance is there to serve business. We need to simplify it," Rana says. That means deciding "what kinds of activities in our economy we want to incentivize and then creating the rules around finance to help capital flow to those areas."Solutions:Reform the tax code that “treats one-year investment gains the same way it treats longer-term investments, and induces financial institutions to push overconsumption and speculation, rather than healthy lending to small businesses and job creators.” End the system's bias favoring debt over equity.Reduce the U.S. corporate tax rate - and abolish complex loopholes. Encourage multinational corporate to return cash kept overseas, reinvesting it in U.S. enterprises. End offshore banking, which allows corporations and wealthy individuals to avoid paying tax.Discourage stock buybacks. Boost incentives for large corporations to fund research and innovation. Reform banking laws. Impose new safety limits on the amount of money banks must have in cash. Impose a financial transaction tax: forcing banks to pay a small fee for each trade in bonds, stocks, and derivatives. Limit leverage: impose safety controls that require banks to hold a larger percentage of holdings in cash. Simplify and overhaul the enormously complex Dodd-Frank law, which penalizes community and regional banks. Pass a new form of Glass-Steagall Act - the 1933 law that separated commercial banking from investing and trading. Take a page from airline safety. Set up a financial version of the independent National Transportation Safety Board to investigate bank failures and other threats to the financial system. End "cognitive capture" or group think. When debating financial reform, listen to the views of all stakeholders: large and small banks, consumers, manufacturing businesses and academics that study the impact of finance on other sectors of the economy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, December 07, 2016
#80 The Urgent Case for Science & Reason: Michael Shermer
Dr. Michael Shermer is our guest; he's the Founding Publisher of Skeptic magazine, a monthly columnist for Scientific American and a regular contributor to Time.com.In his latest book, “The Moral Arc: How Science and Reason Lead Humanity toward Truth, Justice, and Freedom,” Dr. Shermer discusses how science, reason, and rational inquiry contribute to human progress and history. He claims that we are living in the most moral period of our species’ historyUsing data, and lessons from history, Michael shows that the arc of the moral universe bends toward truth, justice, and freedom.When considering right and wrong, "most people separate scientific facts - facts about nature - from moral facts," says Michael in this episode of our podcast, "How Do We Fix It?" "I'm pushing back against that saying moral truths are really no different from biological or physical truths about nature."We consider the profound implications of his ideas for how we look at science, religion, politics, climate change, prison reform and our own moral choices. More information about Michael and his books are available on our website: http://www.howdowefixit.me/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, November 30, 2016
#79 Smarter, Simpler Ways to Fix Healthcare: Dr. Joe Habboushe
The U.S. spends more than $3 trillion a year on healthcare, or nearly $10,000 a year for every man, woman and child. But are we getting a bang for our buck? In many cases, the answer has to be no. And this goes well beyond the raging debate over Obamacare and whether all Americans should have access to coverage.About a third of money spent on healthcare is now simply wasted or spent on poor decisions, says our guest, emergency room physician and entrepreneur, Doctor Joe Habboushe. The crisis includes clinical waste, excessive prices, fraud and bureaucracy.Dr. Habboushe shares his moving personal story and passion for reducing waste and improving patient outcomes through his work as a physician and as CEO of MDCalc - an online diagnostic app used by about 50% of American doctors."Let's not get rid of what we do really well and that's drive innovation for the world," says Dr. Joe. "If we focus on waste, we have to look at why healthcare costs a lot and if we want to reduce that how can we do it in a way that doesn't damage our system.Solutions:- Greater use of technology to help doctors improve decision-making.- Take a careful look at how much money, and intense care, is spent on the final months of life. In some cases, doctors and hospitals profit from treatment - Government and taxpayers need to continue funding research that leads to potential drugs and breakthrough treatments.- Allow pharmaceutical companies to profit from new drugs and medical treatments that benefit patients.- Patients: Be better informed about successful medicine, which doesn't always mean a pill for every ailment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, November 23, 2016
#78 How Games Can Make the World Work Better: Dan Grech
This show is about the benefits adults, especially business owners, can get from playing games. This year's huge success of Pokemon Go helped bring gamification and augmented reality into the mainstream - with many small businesses using the mobile app to raise engagement with consumers. Dan Grech, OfferCraft, tells us how governments, businesses, and even parents use games to boost participation and change behavior.Dan Grech is a former journalist who works for OfferCraft, a Florida company that designs games for companies and other clients. "You can incorporate games into business settings in really small and subtle ways that aren't necessarily expensive and can generate extraordinary results" says Dan. Solutions with games:Governments use games and behavioral economics insights to reduce speeding or increase voter turnout. In China, the government introduced lottery scratch-off games to cut tax evasion.Businesses offer prizes and rewards to excite consumers and boost engagement Doctors’ offices and healthcare clinics may reduce income loss from last-minute cancellations with games and prizes for patients who show up. Parents can use games, such as ChoreMonster, to get kids and other family members to do household chores. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, November 16, 2016
#77 Fixes for Feminists in a Time of Trump: Sallie Krawcheck
Anyone who cares about diversity, feminism and closing the gender gap should be fired up about this show.Author, entrepreneur and - yes provocateur - Sallie Krawcheck is our guest. Her forthcoming 2017 book is "Own It: The Power of Women at Work." Sallie is CEO and Co-Founder of Ellevest, a digital investment platform and wealth management site for women. For years, she has been well known as one of the most senior women on Wall Street and was called "the last honest analyst" by Fortune Magazine after the 2008 financial crisis. She has deep experience in "the biggest boys club in the world" - the financial industry, where 86% of investment advisers are men.First off we talk about why the Trump Presidency could be good for feminists. “It’s (locker room talk) on the table now," she says. The infamous conversation with Billie Bush, and the widely discussed New York Times column "How Wall Street Bro Talk Keeps Women Down" are both "a really important wake up call."Sallie lists the many benefits of true diversity. Organizations where many different voices are respected perform better than those with narrow like-minded leaders from the same gender and social class. Being successful does not mean acting like men, Sallie tells us. "The power of diversity is not bringing a bunch of women or people of difference together and having them act like middle-aged white guys."Sallie’s Solutions: - For women: Make sure your work gets noticed your supervisors and make sure goals are quantified and acknowledged. - For men: Be a fully equal partner with your spouse: do the laundry.- For companies: Diversity is a crucial ingredient to a firm's success, but it won't happen without clear leadership from the top. - Investing: Diversify your portfolio and save for the long term. Instead of trying to beat the market, invest in a range of mutual funds that include U.S. and international sources plus large and small companies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, November 10, 2016
Fix It Shorts #7: Why Trump Won. What Should Happen Next?
We recorded this the day after the stunning U.S. Presidential election. This show is our attempt to explain the reasons for Donald Trump's win.Despite his deeply divisive rhetoric and attacks on Muslims and undocumented Mexican immigrants that deeply offended many voters, Trump emerged victorious. We examine why Trump won the election but also solutions and takeaways from his surprise victory.Solutions:Let’s come up with a list of things we can agree on. Congress should meet before the new Administration takes office and discuss bipartisan reform on prison reform, business regulation, taxes and trade.Americans who are deeply distressed by the election can commit themselves to constructive change where they live, volunteering at improving and rebuilding the public square. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, November 02, 2016
#75 Be Ready for the Future—Any Future: Mark Earls
Almost all of us do a poor job of predicting the future. This show looks at how we can adapt to the disruption and change the future inevitably brings. Using examples from business and our personal lives, we consider how to be smarter and more successful."You can't really imagine what it's going to be like should a bad thing happen," says our guest, Mark Earls. "We over-estimate how bad we might feel if we lose something, and under-estimate how we might feel if something good happens to us."Mark joins Jim and Richard at our living room table in New York. Usually Mark is based in London where he's a well-known author and consultant on marketing, communications and behavioral change. His books include “Copy Copy Copy”, "HERD: How to Change Mass Behavior by Harnessing Our True Nature” and “I’ll Have What She’s Having”"We have to realize…we have to prepare for multiple futures," Mark tells us in this episode. Some additional takeaways:Solutions:Start small. For example Spotify began in a small market (Sweden) and it was able to be more agile, make mistakes and react to its competition more effectively than a larger company. Product plus: some of the most successful companies are the ones that make a product AND deliver service; Dollar Shave Club is a good example of this. Customer service is more important than ever. “You can’t have that ‘take a ticket and wait in line’ attitude towards customers; you need to fix it. In our personal lives prepare for multiple future scenarios: what would happen if you had an unexpected expense, how would you deal with a serious illness or a absence from work, or a major housing expense? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, October 28, 2016
#74 Talking to Strangers Made Me a Better Person: Kio Stark
"There are genuine emotional benefits when we connect with strangers," says our guest, Kio Stark. These fleeting interactions are important interruptions in the steady routine of our lives. "They bring connectedness and belonging."Kio is the author of "When Strangers Meet: How People You Don't Know Can Transform You." Her popular TED Talk has received more than 1,450,000 views. "My own interactions with strangers resonate with meaning for me," she writes in her book. "You find questions whose answers you thought you knew. You reject the ideas that make us so suspicious of each other."Kio explains why and how anyone - including introverts and those who are fearful of strangers - can benefit from allowing these brief encounters into their lives. For instance dogs and babies can make it easier to speak with people you don't know, Kio explains why."There's an amazing power in being seen. We live in cities we don't see each other," Kio tells us. "When you are seen, when you notice someone is acknowledging you it's a momentary bond." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, October 19, 2016
#73 Why Nonprofits Need to Stop Begging: Jennifer McCrea
Do you believe you can make a difference? What improvements to the world have been made by nonprofit organizations? What lessons have been learnt by philanthropists about delivering services and furthering their cause? These and many more questions are answered here by our guest, Jennifer McCrea . She's a leading global expert on giving and fundraising. Jennifer works to transform the practice of philanthropy She discusses her important work with the Born Free Africa collaborative, which works for the eradication of mother-to-child transmission of H.I.V. "While of course we have to get money moving in support of the work we are doing," Jennifer tells us, "it's not about money at the center of the relationship." In her course at Harvard University , Jennifer has worked with leaders from the nonprofit and social enterprise sectors to improve their organizations results from fundraising. "I keep the work itself at the center of the relationship and money just becomes the gas that goes in the car." Philanthropists need to avoid "a begging bowl mentality," she says. Solutions: - Philanthropic groups need to be collaborative, working in concert with other organizations in their space. - Transparency and learning from those who these groups are trying to help should be part of their DNA. - For those of us who give money to nonprofits, sign up for more than donations. Be part of their cause. Monitor their mission. - In our personal lives, when someone needs our help, listen openly and don’t always try to fix their problems. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, October 12, 2016
Fix It Shorts #6: Election 2016: The Problem is Us. We The Voters
The news media have bombarded us with stories about the candidates, the contest and - to a lesser extent - the crucial issues America faces as people vote for the next President. This podcast is about the voters. We went back to four past episodes of "How Do We Fix It?" pulling extracts about how we make decisions and why the information that you and I receive from internet search engines and other sources may be radically different than the news and views our friends and neighbors are hearing. On episode 24 podcast host and author David McRaney told us "we are not so smart," using confirmation bias as a defining example. "It would do us all good to actually think what are we wrong about," said David, who argues in favor of challenging our own personal biases. "Whenever you have an understanding of something, create an alternate explanation." Psychologist Robert Epstein joined us on episode 11 to discuss whether Google is too powerful for our democracy. The former Editor-in-Chief of "Psychology Today" has done extensive research on Google's search rankings and algorithms. "There is a problem is the monopoly in search" that Google holds in most of the world, Robert said. "They're customizing what people see." Search rankings can have a big influence on how people vote. We are not getting challenged by ideas that we haven't heard before. Joan Blades of Living Room Conversations aims to bring people together. A progressive herself, Joan has engaged with evangelical conservatives and leaders of the tea party in lively, but respectful dialog about climate change, criminal justice reform and other questions. "We've become increasingly divided," Joan told us on episode 43. "We don't even share the same facts." Joan explained some of the ground rules of having conversations with those you disagree with. This brief "Fix It Shorts" podcast also features John Gable of AllSides . This news website puts stories from different sources next to each other - columns from left, right and center-leaning news newspapers and online sites. "We want people to be able to see quickly the differences," John said in <a href="http://www.howdowefixit.me/podcast-pg2/2016/4/26/49-john-gable-do-you-know-how-biased-you-a
Wed, October 05, 2016
#71 Saving Walkers & Bikers from Killer Cars: Nicole Gelinas
“Vision Zero” is the highly ambitious plan put in place two years ago by New York's Mayor Bill de Blasio. The goal: no traffic deaths by 2024. America's largest city is nowhere near reducing fatal crashes to zero, but great progress has been made since 1990. "The good news is that we've gone from 701 deaths back then to an average of 245 deaths a year under the de Blasio Administration," says urban economics and transportation researcher Nicole Gelinas in this "Fix It" episode. Nicole is a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute . She writes for City Journal , The Washington Post, LA Times and a bunch of other publications. In this show we look at why so many pedestrians and bicycle riders are killed on the streets of U.S. cities and what we can learn from safety initiatives in Sweden and elsewhere. The bad news is that New York is far safer than almost every other American city. "You're three times more like to be killed in Atlanta whether you're in a car or walking - and you're two times more likely to be killed in LA," says Nicole. We also learn the lessons of the Times Square traffic and pedestrian redevelopment initiative and why it turned critics into fans. During our show Nicole Gelinas unpacks surprising research on the pros and cons of wearing bicycle helmets on busy urban streets. Solutions: Data shows that redesigning streets to slow down and calm traffic is the best way to prevent injuries and deaths. Lower speed limits, especially in dense urban areas. Invest in a comprehensive mass transit system, which will reduce crashes and improves the quality of life for city residents. The old adage, safety in numbers is true when it comes to biking in traffic: bicyclists are safer when they ride in a group. Cyclists should always wear lights to make themselves as visible as possible to motorists. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, September 28, 2016
#70 Fighting the Extremists—on Both Sides: Alan Dershowitz
Electile Dysfunction (is), “a terrible pun plus insightful commentary" is how TV host and wit Seth Myers describes" the new book by Professor Alan Dershowitz. Dershowitz became a professor at Harvard Law when he was 25 years old. In his long and distinguished career, Newsweek described Dershowitz as "the nation's most peripatetic civil liberties lawyer and one of its most distinguished defenders of individual rights." We recorded this episode of "How Do We Fix It?" at his Manhattan home. "Electile Dysfunction" is his 35th book. Voters are anxious, frustrated and they feel impotent. In this show we look at the strangest political campaign of our lifetime and what can be done to improve the way we elect Presidents. We are not alone in facing a threat to our democracy. "I'm afraid of what's going on in Europe today and what's going in the United States may reflect a trend rather than a pendulum swing," Alan Dershowitz tells us. "A trend toward extremes and we have to fight back." Jim, Richard and Dershowitz discuss the rise of extremism on the right and left, the threat to free speech on college campuses and the virtue of compromise. "I think centrist liberals and centrist conservatives have to get together and take back the center and stop the alt right from taking over the Republican Party and the alt left from taking over the Democratic Party," says Professor Dershowitz. We look at solutions: - A voter's Presidential checklist. Before voting, weigh where the candidates stand on the most important issues - from who will best protect us from terrorism to who will keep America's economy strong and produce more stability. - Shortening the nation's extremely long Presidential campaign with one national primary day in June, weeks before the party conventions. - Reducing the destructive power of the media to hype conflict and obscure the electorate's understanding of vital issues. - Encouraging free speech and open dialog that is now under threat at leading colleges and universities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, September 21, 2016
#69 A Better Way to Think About Migrants: Leonard Doyle
Too often, migrants and refugees are viewed as "other" - not like us. In recent days Donald Trump Jr. compared the Syrian refugee problem to a bowl of Skittles In this episode, Leonard Doyle of the International Organization for Migration walks us through the worldwide crisis of tens of millions of displaced people, from families fleeing from war and terrorism to young men and women who overstay their visas in search of a better life. We look at the definitions of these terms - so often glossed over in our discussions of the crisis. Using personal stories and speaking from years of experience working with migrants, Leonard makes a powerful case for all of us to see migrants as people like ourselves. This is the first small step we can take in responding immense humanitarian challenge. "When you say the word 'migrant' people tend to have an image in their head," Leonard tells us. That may be a negative image "because there is so much toxic discourse about them from our quite opportunistic political leaders." Established in 1951, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has offices in more than 100 nations and works with governments and non-governmental organizations to promote humane and orderly migration, for the benefit of all. The movement of peoples from much of Africa, West Asia and The Middle East “is the global phenomenon of our time," says Leonard. "It's kind of the last flick of the globalization monster in a way. We had free trade in global goods and services. This is the bit they didn't plan very well... But people aren't stupid. They watch television and see a better lifestyle happening somewhere else. We've kind of empowered them with our globalized media and globalized trade." A summit of world leaders at The United Nations this week put the migrant crisis more firmly on the global agenda. In his address to the U.N. General Assembly, President Obama called the refugee and migrant crisis " a test of our humanity ." This episode also considers the views of voters in the U.S. and other nations who are fearful that the rising numbers of immigrants from nations with distinctly different cultures could lead to lower wages, rising unemployment and higher crime. Dismissing or marginalizing their concerns can lead to to populist anti-immigrant rage. Join Richard, Jim and Leonard for a lively and often moving conversation. Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:gr
Wed, September 14, 2016
#68 Why Everyone Is Wrong About the Economy: Ruchir Sharma
Get ready for slower economic growth and de-globalization, says investor and writer Ruchir Sharma . Ruchir invited us to his New York office, where he is the head of emerging markets and chief global strategist at Morgan Stanley Investment Management. He is also the author of " The Rise and Fall of Nations: Forces of Change in the Post-Crisis World. " Our interview looks at Ruchir's rules for spotting political, economic and social change. They include: The depopulation bomb: If the working population shrinks, so does the economy. Good versus bad billionaires: Wealth inequality is exploding, but some types of tycoons are viewed very differently than others. The curse of the cover story: Ruchir looked at every Time Magazine cover on the economy going back to 1980. If the cover was downbeat the economy grew faster 55% of the time. If it was upbeat, the economy slowed 66% in the following years. Why democratic capitalism beats the Chinese brand: Postwar booms in democratic nations were usually stronger and longer than under authoritarian regimes. "What's very apparent and under-appreciated is the major drop off that we've seen in the world's working age population growth rate," Ruchir tells us. "I think that is a major drag on global economic growth currently." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, September 07, 2016
#67 How Being Grateful Will Make You Happier: Janice Kaplan
On New Year's Eve, journalist and former Parade Editor-in-Chief Janice Kaplan made a promise to herself to be grateful during the coming year and look on the bright side of whatever happens. As we find out in this episode, it made a big difference to her life. Janice discovered that how she feels has less to do with events than with her own attitude and perspective on life. Her recent book "The Gratitude Diaries" began after a survey she had done found that 94% of Americans thought people who are grateful live richer lives. But less than half those surveyed say they practiced gratitude on any regular basis. "It struck me that we have this great big gratitude gap," Janice tells us on "How Do We Fix It?" If we change our attitude, she says, "we're going to be a lot happier." Solutions: - Say thanks to someone you love. It's easy to forget to appreciate your partner and your family. But the daily practice of saying something positive can transform almost any relationship. -Gratitude is an attitude, but it's also a daily practice. Each day write down something that you are grateful for. - Express gratitude at work. Many of us feel unappreciated at work, but we can change that for ourselves and our colleagues. The start of the work week is a great time to tell fellow workers that they matter to you. - At family dinners or when you are putting your kids to sleep at night, ask your kids what they were grateful for today. This can become part of what families do and how they think about their lives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, September 01, 2016
#66 Fixing Everyday Money Mistakes: Rebecca Jarvis
How much do you know about money? Many of us make simple mistakes that cost us hundreds, if not thousands of dollars a year. According to a recent study by The FINRA Investor Education Foundation, only 37% of Americans have high financial literacy. 29% of 18-34 year-olds with a mortgage have been late with a monthly payment and more than one in four people use high-cost forms of borrowing like pawn shops and payday loans. And even worse, many of us think we know much more about personal finance than we do. In this episode we have simple fixes for money mistakes. Our guest, ABC News Chief Business, Technology and Economics Correspondent Rebecca Jarvis , explains how a few simple steps will improve our chances of staying out debt and avoiding scams. "One of the things that drives me nuts is the number of charlatans out there who are selling products saying it can't lose it can't fail you're going to make money no matter what, " Rebecca tells us. "Anyone who tells you that... run in the opposite direction." Solutions: - Never use credit cards to borrow money. Most have very high interest rates. - Understand why compound interest hurts borrowers and helps savers. - Fix it and forget it: How everyday habits automatic saving - putting a small amount of money away each week - can lead to a secure retirement. - How employers can help workers to save money. - Why better financial education should be a priority for schools and colleges. Useful websites: Mint Quicken and other websites can help you with a weekly budget. Betterment and Wealthfront are savings and investment sites. Blooom offers advice about how to improve the rate of return on 401k and other retirement savings funds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, August 24, 2016
#65 Moms Clean Air Force: Gretchen Dahlkemper
From "nap-time activists" and mommy bloggers to a "stroller march" on Washington, Moms Clean Air Force is using creative and highly effective ways to advance their cause to get dangerous pollutants out of the air. In this "How Do We Fix It?" episode we speak about solutions with the group's National Field Director, Gretchen Dahlkemper, a Pennsylvania mom who became an activist - fired up about the threat to her children's health. Her daughter has asthma. So for her this campaign is personal. "I think the more that we connect the average citizen with their elected officials, the better off our entire system is going to be," says Gretchen. "We have forgotten that we can pick up the phone and call our elected officials." Moms Clean Air Force fights back against climate change, fossil fuel, methane leaks and other issues that cause health problems. But this movement of mothers is about more than the environment and childrens' health. It's also a way of revitalizing our democracy. "That to me is one of the key solutions to eliminating this huge partisan divide that we're seeing in the country right now," says Gretchen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, August 17, 2016
Fix It Shorts #5: Technology: How Children Learn and Play
Following on from our recent episodes about high schools and playdates, this week we explore children's learning, technology and play with three "How DO We Fix It?" guests. Science evangelist Ainissa Ramirez explains why all young kids are fascinated by science. But school often gets in the way of exploration and curiosity. Ainissa explains how parents and other caregivers can spark interest in science. Psychology professor Abigail Baird shares insights and tips for parents about a healthy balance between computers, mobile devices and children's play. Toy industry and play consultant Richard Gottlieb has creative and - yes - playful ideas about technology, behavior and learning. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, August 10, 2016
#63 How Brownsville TX Took on Obesity: Dr. Rose Gowen
The obesity rate is 52% in Brownsville, Texas - far higher than the national average. Nearly one in three residents has diabetes - three times the rate elsewhere. Brownsville also has a very high rate of poverty where more half the residents are not covered by health insurance. This city and other largely hispanic communities along the U.S. - Mexico border are facing a health emergency. Brownsville decided to tackle the crisis head on, with an innovative mix of public initiatives - including a new farmer's market, many miles of bike lanes, changes to zoning regulations, and a community-wide health challenge. Our guest is obstetrician-gynecologist, Rose Gowen, a City Commissioner in Brownsville. We hear her personal story and what Brownsville is doing to transform itself into a more active, prosperous and healthy community. "We have found here that even in the poorest among us they want to feel better and they want better for their family and they're willing to listen to options and ideas," says Rose. "The difference that we've made is huge." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, August 03, 2016
#62 Untangling the Tricky Politics of Playdates: Tamara Mose
Remember when kids were allowed to play, usually without supervision, when did that change? When did play turn into a playdate? Today many parents organize playdates. Play is arranged, supervised and has the parental seal of approval. "I think we could add more diversity into how our children play with other children,"says our guest, Tamara Mose, Associate Professor of Sociology at Brooklyn College. Tamara is the author of the new book "The Playdate: Parents, Children and the New Expectations of Play" In this episode we look at how the shift to structured playdates reflects changes in parenting and class. "Let's listen to our children's desires," Tamara urges parents. "I think we've lost the ability to do that because we're so afraid of everything our children interacts with.' We discuss other solutions, including tips for successful playdates and being open a greater range of children from diverse backgrounds. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, July 27, 2016
Fix It Shorts #4: Why Hacking Threaten All of Us: Adam Levin
The release of nearly 19,000 e-mails from the Democratic National Committee rocked party leaders and forced the resignation of DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz. We look at how this happened, why Russia was probably involved and how many other organizations, businesses and government agencies are at risk of cyber break-ins. Adam Levin, co-founder of Credit.com and the online security firm IDT911 says the power grid and financial system are at risk. He warns of a possible "Cyber-geddon." In this episode of "Fix It Shorts" Adam tells Richard and Jim how all of us can reduce our threat of identity theft and hacking attacks. Adam Levin is a well-known expert on identity theft and credit and the author of "SWIPED: How to Protect Yourself in a World Full of Scammers, Phishers and Identity Thieves." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, July 20, 2016
#60 Ideas to Save our Failing High Schools: Liz Willen
Improving America's high schools is an exceptionally complex and difficult task. But all across the country the most enlightened educators are working to narrow the gap between student achievement and the needs of an evolving workplace. Our guest, Liz Willen, is editor-in-chief of the groundbreaking Hechinger Report. Using solutions journalism, data, stories and research from classrooms and campuses, Hechinger looks at how education can be improved and why it matters. "The best high schools, whether they're charter or public, to me have a sense of purpose: A central idea and a team working together," Liz tells us in this episode of "How Do We Fix It?" But there are scores of barriers to providing children with the education they need to succeed in later life. This learning gap between where we are and where the country needs to be is one reason why so many Americans feel disillusioned about the future. "Kids are coming out of the high schools not ready for the jobs that are going to be available and often not ready for college level work." ⁃ How can we improve our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) instruction? Half of all U.S. high schools do not offer calculus. Only 63% have courses in physics. These are 2 concrete solutions: 1. The Woodrow Wilson Foundation offers a teaching fellowship for people who have a background in STEM and would like to teach in “high-need” secondary schools. 2. P-TECH (Pathways in Technology Early College High School) is a partnership between IBM and the City University of New York. Students are taught core subjects as well as computer science. Graduates complete 2 years of college work. After graduation, alumni have the opportunity to get a job with IBM. P-TECH will be opening another 25 high schools over the next 3 years, stay tuned. ⁃ Why project-based learning can boost achievement and lead to greater engagement among high school students. ⁃ The need for more guidance counselors to help kids with psychological, social and academic issues. ⁃ The importance of role models in schools that struggle with violence and high drop out rates. We also learn a fundamental lesson: Why one-size-fits-all solutions usually don't work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, July 13, 2016
#59 Why the Human Touch Still Matters: Steve Hilton
When is the last time that you called a big company or government agency and a human being answered the phone? From big data, complex algorithms and giant corporations to massive government bureaucracy, the everyday life can seem increasingly impersonal. Our guest, Steve Hilton, argues for radical change. The former senior policy advisor to ex-British Prime Minister David Cameron has written " More Human: Designing a World Where People Come First ." The book is a clarion call for reform of government, law, education, welfare and business systems. "I think one of the most destructive and damaging words in the entire world right now both in government and the private sector is efficiency, " Steve tells us in this episode. "In the name of efficiency really stupid and inhuman things are often done." Find out what he's talking about and what fixes he has in mind... We also interviewed Hilton about Brexit, to listen to that interview click here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, July 06, 2016
#58 A Better Way to Understand Polls: Gary Langer
Are opinion polls accurate? Did they miss the rise of Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders? Do they properly measure America's increasingly sharp political and cultural divisions? What's the difference between a well-designed poll conducted with careful methodology and a sloppy opt-in online survey? Our guest is Gary Langer , an internationally recognized opinion researcher and longtime director of polling at ABC News. He has overseen and analyzed more than 750 surveys on a broad range of topics. Gary has a passion for numbers and explains what listeners should know about polls. He tells us that surveys taken at least a year ago - when many pundits dismissed Trump as an outlier - clearly showed that his views on banning oversees Muslim visitors and building a wall along border with Mexico had substantial support among Republican voters. Trump led the GOP field throughout the lead-up to the primary season. "The news media have for far too long indulged themselves in the lazy luxury of being both data hungry and math phobic," Gary tells us. "I would suggest polls are anti-pundit. A good quality poll ... holds a pundit's feet to the fire " In this episode we get some vital takeaways on how well researched randomized polls are conducted and what changes have been made recently to ensure that a representative sample is reached. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, June 29, 2016
#57 How To Be Smarter About Risk: Karen Firestone
This show may very well save you money, boost your career and help you make smarter decisions. It's about risk. Our guest is Karen Firestone - author of the new book “ Even The Odds - Sensible Risk Taking in Business Investing and Life." She is President and CEO, of Aureus Asset Management, an asset management firm she cofounded after 22 years as a fund manager and research analyst at Fidelity Investments. Karen is a contributor to the Harvard Business Review blog. "I think that sensible risk taking is something that we should all think more about," says Karen. She argues that most of us are too gullible. "It's more fun to be enthusiastic and positive about the outcome of something that involves some risk than be pessimistic and skeptical." Karen shares her personal stories and knowledge about investments, starting a firm, changing careers, surviving in the workplace and raising kids. Karen's four principles of risk taking: Right-sizing. Consider how big the risk is before you commit to a decision. Right timing. Is this the right time to change your lifestyle or career? For instance, don't open an ice-cream shop in November! Relying on knowledge and experience. Know as much as you can about the risk you are taking. Remaining skeptical about promises and projections. "If you show up at a blackjack table and you don't know how to play, you are going to be out of money in five minutes." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fri, June 17, 2016
Fix It Shorts #3: Should Britain Vote to Leave the European Union?: Steve Hilton
Would Britain face lasting economic and political harm if it votes to quit the European Union in June 23rd's referendum? Our show looks at the case for Brexit . Steve Hilton , one of David Cameron's closest friends and a former senior political advisor to the Prime Minister, is a leading member of the Vote Leave campaign. He tells us in this episode that a bureaucratic, over-centralized EU has become far too entangled in British life and is incapable of reform. Richard and Jim disagree on the best outcome for Britain and Europe. They discuss some of the arguments for and against. Note: This episode was recorded shortly before Thursday's tragic murder of British MP, JO Cox. Several campaign events were cancelled after the attack. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, June 15, 2016
Fix It Shorts #2: 2016 Presidential Campaign: Lessons From History. Sean Wilentz
How many times have heard somebody say that the political campaign has reached a new low? How much worse is the 2016 race compared to previous elections?We asked Princeton University Professor, Sean Wilentz, to give us a history lesson. In his latest book, "The Politicians and the Egalitarians" Sean makes the case for pragmatism, arguing that politicians serve the country best through the art of compromise.On this episode, he tells us that "nasty, slimy stuff" is nothing new in Presidential campaigns, using the wild rhetoric of 1828 and 1860 as examples.But what is new this year, Sean argues, is hyper-partisanship, "where you cannot imagine the other side even existing. You want to obliterate them. You want to wipe them off the face of the earth." The SOLUTIONS start with us. - How we talk about those we disagree with. Are you gleefully vilifying the opposition?- Go beyond our information silos. Read and listen to those we disagree with. allsides.com has daily examples, looking at the news from the left, right and center. Follow journalists who cover solutions.- Revitalize civil discourse. If you have a strong disagreement with friends or neighbors, consider setting up a living room conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, June 08, 2016
#54 Harnessing the Hidden Power of Habit: Charles Duhigg
This podcast is all about how to have better habits and use them to be more productive in our projects, careers and everyday lives. We talk about to-do lists, email, mental models and making the most of our time with best-selling author, Charles Duhigg . His latest book is "Smarter, Faster, Better: The Secrets of Being Productive in Life and In Business." Charles is also the author of "The Power of Habit." "Keeping your eye on that thing that matters most to you is the secret to success," Charles tells us. "We need a mental model: a story we tell ourselves about how we expect our day to unfold." Whether it's the importance of stretch and smart goals or our need to get out a rut or shed bad habits, this fun episode has smart solutions for all of us. Building on cutting-edge science and deep reporting, Charles uses storytelling to explain how productivity relies on making smart choices. Just one example: "We can turn a to-do list from a memory aid into a device that forces us to think a little bit more deeply about our priorities." Find more on this episode. Cynicism is a poverty of curiosity and imagination and ambition. -- Maria Popova. of BrainPickings During their conversation in this episode, Richard and Jim mention the inspirational commencement address by Maria Popova - curator of brainpickings.org - on the soul-sustaining necessity of resisting self-comparison and fighting cynicism. possible tabs: habits, author, solutions journalism, podcasting Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, June 01, 2016
#53 Medical Mistakes: The 3rd Largest Cause of Death
Medical errors are America's third largest cause of death. Only heart disease and cancer have a higher body count. A new report estimates that about 250,000 Americans die each year because of screw-ups in hospitals, doctors' offices and other medical settings. In 2013, research by NASA's chief toxicologist put the number at as many as 440,000. In this episode of "How Do We Fix It?", Pittsburgh-based lawyer James Lieber brings a passion for practical solutions to a widespread problem. James has spent more than a decade researching medical errors after his friend and mentor died from a prescription overdose following a lung transplant. Last month, his provocative and practical op-ed for the Wall Street Journal, "How To Make Hospitals Less Deadly" , caught our attention. (Note: readers can get behind the Journal's paywall by pasting the link at news.google.com ). His recent book is " Killer Care : How Medical Error Became America's Third Largest Cause of Death, And What Can Be Done About It" Solutions: Standard medical records. All medical information about a patient should be available in the exam room with a few clicks. Despite efforts by Congress and the Obama Administration to reach this goal, many online medical records are on closed systems, unavailable to hospitals and doctors when they need them most. Structured handoffs. Miscommunication can happen during shift changes in hospitals or when a patient is transferred to a new room or different section of the hospital. A study in The New England Journal of Medicine suggested adverse events could be reduced 30% by structured handoffs. Bring in pharmacists. In many cases, they have more up-to-date knowledge than doctors about how drugs interact with diet, age, disease and each other. Get serious about infections. Adopt guidelines from The Centers for Disease Control
Wed, May 25, 2016
Fix It Shorts #1: Crazy Red Tape and Rigid Rules: How Do We Fix It?
It's the biggest issue of the Presidential campaign that the candidates are not talking about: bloated government and the poor delivery of services. From very long TSA airport security lines to the dysfunction at your local DMV, our interactions with government can be extremely frustrating. Exceedingly complex rules and laws make things even worse. For decades, Philip K. Howard has been a leading voice on how to streamline government and make it work for all of us. His latest book is " The Rule of Nobody: Saving America From Dead Laws and Broken Government." He's the founder of the good government group, Common Good. In this 12-minute episode of "Fix It Shorts," Philip gives alarming examples of how regulations have programmed officials and politicians of both parties to follow rigid rules that often leave very little room for human judgement. Solutions: Rules and regulations need to be radically simplified. Laws based on principles and goals rather detailed rules. Sunset provisions for laws: they can be re-examined every five or ten years. Founding father James Madison's warning about laws should be heeded. They must not be "so voluminous that they cannot be read, or so incoherent that they cannot be understood." "Four Ways to Fix A Broken Legal System." Philip K. Howard Ted Talk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, May 18, 2016
#51 Why Self-Driving Cars Are a Sneaky Plot: Eddie Alterman
With technology in overdrive, self-driving cars are no longer a fantasy. The first autonomous cars and trucks made by major auto manufacturers could be on the road within several years. But "Fix It" guest Eddie Alterman, Editor-in-Chief of Car and Driver magazine says not so fast. "It's a scary concept anyway you look at it," he tells us. "The autonomous car is a very inelegant, very complex and a very fraught solution to the problem of texting while driving... and of information coming into the car when people should be driving." For Google, Apple, Microsoft and other big data companies, autonomous cars are a big opportunity. Instead of keeping their eyes on the road, motorists could use their driving time to consume more digital media. But Eddie Alterman says a mix of self-driving and traditional vehicles on the road would create danger. "People will deal with or accept flawed humans crashing into each other. I don't think people will accept supposedly fail-safe machines crashing into each other" Solutions: Encourage the use of background technology to make driving safer with improved cruise control, vehicle stability, lane departure warning systems and other innovations. Pursue a cautious path with the use of autonomous vehicles in "closed" environments such as industrial sites. Encourage car-sharing and other initiatives to reduce commute times. Resist the temptation to encourage drivers to surrender control of their time behind-the-wheel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, May 11, 2016
#50 Building a Much Better Workplace: How Do We Fix It?
The numbers are alarming. A 2015 Gallup poll found nearly 70% of U.S. employers say they're either bored or disengaged at work. The cost to employers has been put at more than $500 billion in lost productivity. The cost to workers is incalculable - in human misery, unnecessary stress and lost opportunity. Workplace psychologist Ron Friedman is the author of "The Best Place to Work: The Art and Science of Creating an Extraordinary Workplace." Ron says there's an astonishing gap between the latest science and most the modern workplace. He has some great tips for both employers and employees. Ron's solutions for employers: An engaged workforce is more creative, focused and stay with their company for a long period time. This saves money. Employees need to be competent and connected to one another, yet they need to have autonomy - feeling they have choice in how they go about doing their work. Invite employees to share their ideas. Encourage learning: give your employees a quarterly reading budget. Establish an office library. Invite employees to take their vacation time and switch off from work at night, so they can live a balanced, healthy life. Workplace design and hiring a diverse workforce play a very important role in creating a better workplace. Ron's solutions for employees: Reframe the way you look at your job. Present a case that could add value to your employer. Get out of your comfort zone. Greater variety often leads to more work satisfaction. Look for ways to re-create your job to allow yourself to do more of the things you enjoy doing more often. Regular exercise. It makes you smarter, more focused and creative at work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, May 04, 2016
#49 Don't Freak Out About Terrorism: Fixes from The Security Mom
"Stuff happens," says homeland security expert and mom of three, Juliette Kayyem. The government has got to find a better way to talk about the threat of terrorism and natural disasters. Most of us need to have a better plan to prepare. "We talked in a way when people would either tune out or freak out," says Juliette of her time as a top official at The Department of Homeland of Homeland Security. "We are all in this together," she tells on this episode of "How Do We Fix It?" Her new book is "Security Mom: An Unclassified Guide to Protecting Our Homeland And Your Home." The book is packed with common-sense ways to think about positively about a difficult subject. Juliette's solutions: The government shouldn't scare, but prepare. Pretending that America is invulnerable is both unrealistic and unhelpful to citizens. Homeland security is not just about tragedy or terror, it's what all of us can do every day to keep ourselves strong, safe and prepared. Families should have a "72 on you" plan. If you call 9-1-1 in an emergency, don't assume help will come quickly. Have 72 hours of vital supplies, including non-perishable food, water, first-aid kit, flashlights and batteries. Talk to your kids about how the family should stay in touch in an emergency. Copy important personal documents and put them on the cloud. "You can get yourself prepared for almost any eventuality in a very small amount of time," says Juliette. "You're going to feel better being prepared for something rather than nothing." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 26, 2016
#48 John Gable Do You Know How Biased You Are? John Gable of AllSides.com
"At the end of the day everybody is biased," says our guest,John Gable, founder CEO of AllSides. "You're biased by what youknow. You're biased by what you know and you're biased by yourentire human existence before then." AllSides is unique in how it covers the news - displayingstories on its front page - from different points of view. It urgesreaders to "engage in civil dialog and discover a deeperunderstanding of the issues." The left-hand column at AllSides has stories fromliberal-leaning sites (New York Times, Huffington Post, Salon), theright column features conservative-leaning media coverage of thesame event (Fox News, The Blaze). The centrist column plays thingsdown the middle (USA Today, Christian Science Monitor). "Part of what we do is help people understand that they arebiased as well," says John. With deep experience in technology and his former involvement inpolitical campaigns, he understands how so many of live in a bubble- only listening to those we agree with. And why that's a threat toour democracy. Solutions: Take the " doyou live in a bubble? " quiz. Learn why left or right are not our only political options . John Gable urges us to read Neil Postman's ground-breaking 1985book, "AmusingOurselves to Death. " The book looks at the impact of televisionand mass entertainment on our perceptions of politics andculture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, April 20, 2016
#47 A Better Way to Report The News: David Bornstein
Too often, news coverage is all about clashes, controversies andcontests. The way the media cover major events can have aprofound impact on our view of the world. In this episode, Jim and Richard - both journaliststhemselves - are joined by DavidBornstein , who writes for theFixes blog of The New York Times and is co-founder of SolutionsJournalismNetwork.org . "The news tends to focus far more on what's wrong than onthe credible efforts around the world of people who are trying tofix things, whether they are successful or not." David tellsus. "I think the main thing is that the problems scream andthe solutions whisper. The problems are always clamoring forattention. Solutions, you really do have to be proactive and golook for them." David says that solutions journalism focuses not just onwhat may be working, but how and why it appears to be working, oralternatively, why it may be stumbling. Using the best availableevidence, it delves deep into the how-to’s of problem solving,often structuring stories as puzzles or mysteries that investigatequestions like: What models are having success reducing the dropoutrate in public schools? How do they actually work? What are theydoing differently than others that are resulting in a betteroutcome? Solutions Journalism network goes into newsrooms aroundthe country, and trains editors and reporters on the imperatives ofthe "now what" aspect of reporting. Solutions journalismhelps news organizations play a stronger role in the communitiesthey serve. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, April 13, 2016
#46 An Environmentalist's Passionate Case for Nuclear Power: Michael Shellenberger
With the approach of Earth Day, this show looks at the cleanair, carbon-free case for nuclear power. And it challenges the viewheld by many environmentalists that the only way to save the planetis for all of us to get by with less. Guest Michael Shellenberger is is coauthor of AnEcomodernist Manifesto , a which argues that human prosperityand an ecologically vibrant planet go hand-in-hand. In 2007,Michael received the Green Book Award and Time magazine's" Heroof the Environment. " His recent TEDx talk is " How Humans SaveNature ." Nuclear power is an anathema to many of his fellowenvironmentalists, but Michael tells us its a crucial form ofenergy that "produces zero air and water pollution... There's nopollution that comes out of nuclear plants." He says that we canboost growth all over the world and still set aside more land fornature and wildlife. Michael makes argument that humans, who havecaused so much destruction to the planet, have the ingenuity tosave it. Michael recently started a new group, EnvironmentalProgress.org and is the author of the book " BreakThrough: From the Death of Environmentalism to the Politics ofPossibility. " He calls on those who care about the future ofthe planet to reject the language of limits and embrace possibilityand the aspirations of people around the world who strive toimprove their standard of living. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, April 06, 2016
#45 The Case for Children's Free Play: Lenore Skenazy
You can't have too much of a really good thing. That's why we decided to invite Lenore Skenazy, founder of Free Range Kids, to make a welcome return to "How Do We Fix It?" She was a guest on an earlier show. Lenore is the passionate and playful campaigner, who says most American kids don't have nearly enough unstructured free time, when they can be curious and engage the world on their own terms. "Free time is unsupervised time," Lenore tells us. "It's not a parent sitting there saying 'oh, that was really good, or try it this way.' Sometimes you've got to do things that are really bad and try it the wrong way, because that's the creative process." Lenore says parenting styles have changed in the past 30 years, especially for many urban and upper-middle classes Moms and Dads. Risk avoidance seems more important than stimulating a child's imagination. "Think back on your own childhood. Your parents loved you and they let you go. And it's a new thing not to give children any freedom." From the Free Range Kids statement of where it stands: "Fighting the belief that are children are in constant danger from creeps, kidnapping, germs, grades, flashers, frustration, failure, baby snatchers, bugs, bullies, men, sleepovers and/or the perils of the non-organic grape." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, March 30, 2016
#44 Our Problem with Science. Ainissa Ramirez: How Do We Fix It?
We have a problem in our society. Too many people don't understand science or the importance of the scientific method. Many children aren't learning the basics of math and science, which closes off a broad range of career opportunities. It's also a problem in our civil society. A broader understanding of how science works would help parents know why they need to vaccinate their kids or what's going on with climate change. Science evangelist Ainissa Ramirez has some great fixes. She's the author of " Save Our Science " and " Newton's Football ," a lively book about the science of America's favorite sport. Ainissa is dedicated to making science fun for people of all ages. Her excellent two-minute podcast, " Science Underground ," helps spread the word." We all start off as scientists," Ainissa tells us in this episode. "If you look at a 4-year-old's hands, they're completely dirty, because they're engaging with the world. But then something happens. School happens" The science knowledge deficit holds back many girls and minorities. But Ainissa says "girls used to rock STEM at one point." Find out what happened in this episode of " How Do We Fix It? " Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 22, 2016
#43 Joan Blades Part 2 - How to Speak With People You Disagree With
This episode looks at the simple, highly personal way that living room conversations allow people of different viewpoints to really hear each other. A progressive activist, Joan Blades was deeply involved in starting MoveOn.org in the late 90's. More recently she has also worked on ways to encourage respect and dialog among liberals, independents and conservatives. She is the cofounder of LivingRoomConversations.org. In part one last week (episode 43), we looked at why Americans need to find new ways to speak about our differences, such as visiting websites with opposing political opinions, and having conversations that are not vindictive. "It's actually really fun having a living room conversation," says Joan. "They're more fun than if you have a bunch of people around that you know what they're going to say. We get to laugh about our differences once we understand what's going on." Among the first conversations the group had was a discussion on climate and energy. "One of the problems progressives have right now is that if they run into someone who doesn't believe in climate science, they roll their eyes." As soon as you do that, "you've lost your conversation," Joan says. "Nobody listens to anybody." Here are some of the topics we raised in this episode: LivingRoomConversations.org has simple for ground rules each meeting - encouraging participants to be curious, show respect and take turns. Listening to people is the best way to get people to listen to you. These conversations are not debates. Instead of winning, the aim is come up with solutions. LivingRoomConverstions.org guidelines are open-source. People can use what works for them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, March 16, 2016
#42 Neighbors Divided Over Politics: Joan Blades: How Do We Fix It?
How can you talk to people you disagree with? We Talk to Joan Blades, the founder of MoveOn.org about how to bridge the partisan divide. This show is another response to the deep partisan divide in America - part one of a fascinating conversation with Joan Blades. Much of our political campaign has been dominated by personal insults, name-calling and dogma. Voters have rewarded politicians who use anger and blame others for the country's problems. Individual citizens are part of the problem and the solution. "We live with the dysfunction of partisan behaviors and believe we must and can do better," says Joan, co-founder of LivingRoomConversations.org . She makes the case for personal dialog across party lines, arguing that it's a key part of changing the way all of us think about politics. A strong progressive, who co-founded the liberal activist group, MoveOn.org in the late 90's, Joan makes the case for listening to those you don't agree with. "It's actually really fun having a living room conversation," she tells us."They're more fun than if you have a bunch of people around and you what they're going to say." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, March 09, 2016
#41 Explaining Donald Trump; The Role Emotions Play In Big Decisions
Let's face it. Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders have won far more votes than almost any "expert" forecast. The reason may well be that emotions and learned behavior from others play a far bigger role in our decision making than most of us realize. Our "Fix It" guest Mark Earls - the HERDMeister - is an award-winning British writer and consultant on marketing, communications and human behavior. In his latest book, " Copy, Copy, Copy, " Mark shows how we vote and buy stuff by copying others - our friends, family and our neighbors." "Donald Trump is "much smarter than we give him credit for," says Mark.. "He gets that people need to feel stuff rather than think about it." In his advertising work, Mark has used the lessons of behavioral science and marketing success to advise clients. He shares his fascinating, if somewhat frustrating insights with us. As voters and consumers we can learn from what his research tells us - even when he go to the supermarket or spend time with friends. "I would not recommend buying grocery shopping when you're hungry," Mark tells us. And... "If I find myself in a British bar I tend to have a glass of beer and that's how it goes, unless somebody else around me goes 'ooh, a gin and tonic. I haven't had a gin and tonic for a long time'. So we both have the same thing." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, March 02, 2016
#40 America's Angry Political Divide. Mark Gerzon
More than any time in recent decades, American politics aredeeply divided. Compromise is a dirty word. "The way that we're running the country is that we're notrunning the country," says our guest Mark Gerzon, author of the newbook, " TheReunited States of America. " As President of Mediators Foundation, the group he founded 25years ago, Mark has brought people together in conflict zonesaround the world Concerned about increasing polarization in theU.S., Mark is working on the ideological frontier between left andright. "We can work together to solve the problems we all face in acountry we all love," Gerzon tells us on this episode of "How Do WeFix It?" But what we have now is a permanent campaign by bothparties. "And after election day they start the next campaign." "We can't solve any of the problems we face if we're tearingeach other down the whole time." Mark's fixes include urging individual citizens to engage indiscussions with people we don't agree with, asking questions aboutwhat they think, rather than stating fixed opinions. "Do you want to get drunk on being right and enjoy that feelingof being with the people you agree with and bad mouth the peopleyou don't?," asks Mark. News media coverage, he says, is biased in favor of controversy,contests and clashes. "There's a whole America out there that's not getting any newscoverage. And that's the America where Americans work together."Resources for compromise and open-minded dialog include: livingroomconversations.org bridgealliance.us everyday-democracy.org democracyfund.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, February 24, 2016
#39 The Gender Gap in Our Public Square: Joan Wages: How Do We Fix It?
From the AmericanRevolution and the Founding Fathers - through wars, economic changeand the struggle for civil rights, American history isoverwhelmingly dominated by the achievements and errors ofmen. Women - because they were largely excluded from public andprofessional life for most of our history - play a relatively smallrole in the established narrative of our past. "Role models have a hugeimpact on the way young girls and women in general think aboutthemselves," says Joan Wages, President and CEO of The NationalWomen's History Museum. "We need more women role models out in the public sphere so weknow about them." In this episode, Joan tells about the campaign for building aNational Women's History Museum in Washington D.C. TheMuseum's website states: "It will be centrally located near theworld's most prestigious museums and monuments in our Nation'sCapital." Fewer than 20% of the Members of Congress are women. Incorporate boardrooms the numbers are even lower. Fewer than5% of CEO's at Fortune 500 companies are women. "Each time a young girl hears this, it sends a message to themthat they're not equal. That's what needs to change." This episode has examples of women forgotten by history andlooks at other fixes as well as obstacles as the campaign attemptsto correct an imbalance in how women are portrayed. . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, February 17, 2016
#38 Why Obamacare Might Collapse: Megan McArdle: How Do We Fix It?
For its opponents, Obamacare is a disaster - a classic exampleof over-reach by an Administration that wants to expand the sizeand scope of the Federal government. Supporters say The Affordable Care Act is a triumph, benefitingcountless millions of Americans, while reducing the threat ofpersonal bankruptcies in medical emergencies crippling healthcarecosts. "We have decreased the rate ofthe uninsured by about a third," says our guest Megan McArdle, acolumnist at Bloomberg View. But Obamacare poses apotentially fatal threat. "What people are doing is they're gaming the system." Some withhealth emergencies, who have inadequate medical insurance are"signing up for a fewmonths, using a ton of services and then dropping itagain." Several large insurance companies say they are losing money onthe government-run exchanges. UnitedHealth, the nation's largesthealth insurance firm, warned it would have to pull out if marketconditions didn't improve. Exchange enrollments are lower than thegovernment had forecast. Is Obamacare the victim of "anadverse death spiral"? Are costs rising faster thanexpected? Do Americans have unrealistic expectations thatwould doom any attempt to provide better coverage? We debate the arguments from different points of view andsuggest a fix that could involve consumers more directly in costdecisions, while putting a ceiling on heath care costs for eachhousehold. Megan McArdle is the author of "The Upside of Down: Why FailingWell Is The Key To Success." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, February 10, 2016
#37 Breast Cancer: Lessons from a life-threatening journey. Debbie Galant
Debbie Galant talks about what it's like to livewith breast cancer. What she learned along the way amount tosolutions for what can be a desperate, lonelyexperience. From the shock of herfirst diagnosis to sometimes wrenching, sometimes funnyconversations with her doctors and family, Debbie gives us valuablelessons about how to survive and recover, physically andemotionally. "You are pitched intothis world of fear... this incredible world of fear," she tells us."You're making a lot of decisions in that period, but you're reallyin a primal place." Her journey includes howto "de-code" her oncologist, and learn from a nurse-navigator todealing with her own emotional roller-coaster ride. She alsotalks about a vital ingredient: humor. "Going into a doctor'sappointment with a sense of humor, as opposed to a sense of dread,really helped." Debbie, her husbandWarren Levinson, and son Noah tell their story in the podcast,"Chemo Files" - is a deeply personal account of her months ofdealing with cancer. She is Associate Director of New MediaInitiatives and runs NJ News Commons at Montclair State University,New Jersey. If you would like moreinformation about understanding breast cancer and learning moreabout communities that can help, these websites may behelpful: www.breastcancer.org, www.cancer.gov/types/breast, www.webmd.com/breastcancer/. A.B.C.D(after breast cancer diagnosis) ( 800-977-4121): Free one-to-one mentoring for every step of your journey.Speak with a breast cancer survivor. Get accurate, reliableinformation & supportArticles on breast cancer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, February 03, 2016
#36 The Risks of Safety: Greg Ip: How Do We Fix It?
Anti-lock brakes make many motorists drive faster. Introducing helmets and face masks in football raised the risk of concussions. Financial regulators and central bankers played a role in creatingconditions that led to the 2008 mortgage meltdown. The illusion of safety can lead to reckless behavior. These fascinating insights are part of "Foolproof - Why SafetyCan Be Dangerous and How Danger Makes Us Safe", the recentlypublished book by Greg Ip, chief economics commentator at The WallStreet Journal. "Life is about risk," Greg tells us in this episode of "How DoWe Fix It?" When we believe the world is safe, it affects ourbehavior. "Many positive things happen from taking risks and weshould not let the pendulum swing all the way to the other side -trying to eliminate all risks from our lives." Our collective aim to make life safer comes into conflict withthe equally strong desire to make things bigger and morecomplicated. It is in our nature to safeguard our world - and yetsometimes, more often than we realize, protections end up being thethings that threaten our safety and well-being. Accidents will always happen, says Greg. Among the solutions hecalls for are safe spaces: allowing banks to fail without takingdown the entire financial system and creating flood plains that allrivers and coastal waters to rise without creating havoc in nearbycommunities. Greg argues for a balance between independence, risk and safety.Regulate too much and we reduce the opportunities for innovationand create a sense of potential complacency. "Black swan" eventsare inevitable. Our systems of governance and rule-making shouldrecognize that we cannot plan for every eventuality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, January 26, 2016
#35 Our Flawed Fight Against ISIS: Maajid Nawaz: How Do We Fix It?
Before The U.S. and other nations can be successful againstIslamic State (ISIS) and other global jihadists, we must understandthe difference between Islam and Islamism. That's the argument fromour guest on this week's episode, Maajid Nawaz. "It happens to be that today we are dealing with an insurgencythat's rising and growing within my own Muslim community," he says.It doesn't help to deny it." A Sunni Muslim and a former Islamist fundamentalist, who isfounding chairman of the London-based counter-terrorism foundation,Quilliam, Maajid makes a powerful argument for freedom, toleranceand respect. He says that President Obama and many other liberal-mindedpoliticians and journalists have been reluctant to call Islamistideology by its proper name. "Here's where people become paralyzedby political correctness," he argues. "We are unable to say'Islamist extremism' as distinct from Islam the religion." "I call this the Voldemort affect," citing the villain in theHarry Potter books and movies. Maajid compares the refusal to speakout against Islamists to those in the novels who were so petrifiedby Lord Voldemort's evil that they simply called him "he who mustnot be named." "We're not talking about Islam the faith we're talking aboutpoliticalization of the faith." Maajid Nawaz is author of the book “Radical: My Journey Out ofIslamist Extremism.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, January 20, 2016
#34 The backlash against science. Alice Dreger: How Do We Fix It?
We'd like to think that science should exist outside of politics and researchers follow the truth wherever it goes. But the ideal of rational non-ideological science is under attack at many colleges and universities, says our guest, Alice Dreger. An historian who studies human sexuality and the ethics of medical research, Alice is the author of the provocative new book, "Galileo's Middle Finger." "I'm really looking at how activists go after scientists who have ideas that the activists don't like - usually about human identity," she tells us. Unsurprisingly perhaps, this show includes explicit content, including a description of a sex act. But the main focus is about the threat to academic freedom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, January 13, 2016
#33 Fighting Over Land in The West: Nancy Langston - How Do We Fix It
The armed occupation of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in the dry prairies of Southeast Oregon by members a small militia group is the most recent chapter in the very long-running dispute over land in The West. Our guest is environmental historian Nancy Langston, author of “Where Land and Water Meet. A Western Landscape Transformed.” In some western states the Federal Government owns more than half the land. This set the stage for impassioned arguments between ranchers, conservationists, corporate interests, local communities and native American tribes. All have a role to play. As for the seizure of government property, "there is very, very little local support for the militia's tactics for this kind of violent anarchy," Nancy Langton told us on this episode. "They have nothing to do with this region and I don"t think there are many local ranchers or anybody else in the community who approve of their methods." But there is considerable support for changing the way federal lands are managed and giving local interests a greater role. Some believe that land should be turned over to state and local control. Langston says collaboration and respect for different interests are the only ways to solve the disputes. We examine the arguments in this "Fix It" episode and suggest solutions. The Malheur example is more important than the case of the Hammonds, the two Harney County ranchers who were sent back to prison. The argument is part of a national debate over increasing federal government power, especially during the past 40 years, since new environmental regulations were established by the Nixon Administration. The occupiers claimed that government discriminated against local ranchers, who use federal land for cattle grazing. Is there merit to their argument, or do ranchers get over-generous subsidies from taxpayers to raise livestock on the public's land? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, December 31, 2015
#32 New Year's Resolutions for 2015
It's easy to make resolutions to improve our lives, but how do we boost our chances of following through? The first two guests on this New Year's Resolutions special are Dave McRaney of the podcast, "You Are Not So Smart" and Dr. Peter Whybrow,Director of the Semel Institute at U.C.L.A., author of The Well-Tuned Brain: Neuroscience And The Life Well Lived."Dave dives in to confirmation bias, when we seek out information that confirms our world view, rather than challenging ourselves with the truth. Peter says we often make short-term choices that conflict with our best long-term interests.Instant gratification is often the enemy of a balanced budget. Beverly Harzog lived through her own personal crisis of bad debt and now helps people repair their credit. She explains how she got into credit card debt and how you can get out of it. She has more helpful information at her website, BeverlyHarzog.comFarnoosh Torabi, host of the popular podcast, "So Money,"gave us creative ideas on how to make more money and preserve your wealth by being your own best financial advocate.Many people make major mistakes when purchasing home, life, auto or health insurance. While some don't have enough coverage, others buy duplicate insurance. Laura Adams, host of the "Money Girl" podcast and a spokesperson for insurancequotes.com says the cost of term life insurance may be much cheaper than you think.If you plan to buy or rent a home in 2016, Nela Richardson, Senior Economist with the real estate website, Redfin, has some useful tips. Jeff Koyen, Editor-in-Chief of talks about the importance of getting enough sleep. He gives us some creative ideas on improving our sleeping lives.All of the sound bites in this episode are from earlier shows. Check out our menu of guests a howdowefixit.me Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 29, 2015
#31: 2015 In Review: Some of Our Best Moments
If you want to get of sense of what we're about, this highlights show may be a good place to start. We've put together a "best of" podcast that reflects our values and makes the argument for why we're worth listening to. From Episode 4, released in June, reformer Philip K. Howard made the case for better government and simpler, shorter laws, instead of all the red tape and tangled mess that we have today. In his Ted Talk lecture and his latest book, “The Rule of Nobody,” Philip argues passionately for legal and government reform. Not many parents can say their lives were changed by an uneventful subway ride. Lenore Skenazy, our guest in Episode 20, tells us about the uproar that followed her decision to let her 9-year-old son ride the subway on his own. Her column about it led to the movement, "Free Range Kids."Other guests on this highlights show include Hara Marano of Psychology Today, who says there's a mental health crisis on American college campuses and Greg Lukianoff spoke to us in September. His groundbreaking article in The Atlantic alerted us to why trigger warnings are part of a threat to free speech at colleges.Mike Rowe of "Dirty Jobs' and "Somebody's Gotta Do It" fame on CNN made the case for a change in emphasis in education, giving greater pride of place to training and knowledge about skilled trades occupations. Our best of 2015 also includes an excerpt from Episode 13, a show every parent should listen to. Elizabeth Green, author of "Building a Better Teacher," argues for teacher training reform and understanding the importance of the craft of teaching. University of Tennessee Law Professor Glenn Reynolds who runs the popular blog, Instapundit.com, was on Episode 10, talking about his proposal for a revolving door surtax. The aim is reduce influence peddling by current and former government officials in Washington D.C. All of our guests came armed with thoughtful, constructive and independent ideas with the aim of making the world a better place. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, December 23, 2015
#30 How The Internet Is Messing With Our Brains. Abigail Baird: How Do We Fix It?
We love our smartphones, tablets, and laptops. But what is the explosion in mobile technology doing to our brains?Our guest, Professor Abigail Baird,is a developmental psychologist,expert on the teenage brain and mother of two young children. She says technology has great benefits, but also could have a negative impact on our conversations, memory and social life. The brain's craving for novelty - for constant stimulation and instant gratification - makes our tech toys seem irresistible. So how do we put balance in our lives?Abigail's fixes include time-out zones and no-screen places and events. Parents, she says, "should consider what is best for their families. For instance, I love the idea of 'no phone in the car.'"Another tip for parents is to beware of tethering - when college students sometimes call home at least several times a day."Hard as it is for parents, once kids head off to college, they really need to rely on their interpersonal networks at school, not calling home." Another fix: "As adults we have to set good examples to our children and not get too attached to our own screens." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 15, 2015
#29 Are College Students Too Emotionally Fragile? Hara Marano: How Do We Fix It?
From angry scenes over Halloween costumes at Yale to protests against racism at the University of Missouri, student activism is back. More than at any time since the late 1960's, America is in the middle of a wave of college unrest. To what extent do students today have genuine grievances? Are at least some of them rebels without a cause - angry because their feelings have been hurt? “ Step by step colleges are being transformed into something more akin to mental health wards rather than citadels of learning,” says our guest , Hara Marano, Editor at Large of Psychology Today and author of the book, " A Nation of Wimps ". While calls for greater diversity among college professors are an important cause, Marano tells us of fundamental changes in the student population. "Rising numbers of students are breaking down with anxiety and depression, self-mutilation, burning, cutting, binge drinking to obliterate all of their anxiety," says Marano. "Even the slightest disappointment pitches them into crisis mode." "The American College Mental Health Association has been documented rises in all of these conditions." Many students "get so distressed so readily." Are many young people over-protected and even narcissistic, demanding protection from ideas and concepts they find too uncomfortable to listen to? This episode digs into these questions, suggesting fixes for colleges and parents. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, December 07, 2015
#28 Walls, Barriers and Bans: The Cost of Panic Over Immigration & Terror: How Do We Fix It?
From Paris to San Bernardino, terrorist attacks have sparked an outcry from many politicians in Europe and the U.S. - including calls for new controls on immigration, refugees and the free movement of labor across national borders.The leading Republican Presidential candidate, Donald Trump, called for a total and complete ban on Muslims entering the United States.Our guest in episode 29, Peter Coy, Economics Editor for Bloomberg Businessweek, makes a strong case for more - not less - immigration, as well as a greater exchange of ideas across the boundaries that divide us."One of the treasures of democracy is freedom of thought, freedom of action, freedom of movement," says Peter. "In putting up walls we actually lose what we treasure the most." The 28-state European Union has been a triumph for economic growth and a peaceful transition from the wreckage of World War 2."You can drive from France into Switzerland without even pumping the brakes at the border," Peter told us. "This has been hugely beneficial to Europe, creating a single Europe with more trade, wealth and commerce than we would have." Europe is the top destination for U.S. exports, but many economists see a big cost to the economy and to our culture from erecting new barriers in the name of safety. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, December 01, 2015
#27 America's Sleep Crisis: Jeff Koyen. How Do We Fix It?
How can we get more sleep? If you have at least seven hours of interrupted sleep each night, consider yourself very lucky indeed. Problems with sleep are remarkably widespread. Many millions of adults and children either don't spend enough time in bed or suffer from sleep disorders, resulting in illness, obesity, depression, mood swings and loss of creativity.Our guest is Jeff Koyen, Editor-in-Chief of Van Winkle's, a new website "obsessed with sleeping, waking and everything in between. He shares the stories of scientists, artists, travel writers, child-care experts and many others who have a great deal to tell us about how we do - and don't - sleep."Sleep is a very complicated issue that touches probably everyone you know. It's not just adults," says Jeff. "We're talking about teenagers have sleep issues, even children."Smartphones, tablets and other devices have made the problem even worse. "Ten years ago, five years ago you were not taking your phone with you to bed."We look at fixes and what science tells us about how to get a better night's sleep. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, November 24, 2015
#26 The Trouble With Today's Toys: Richard Gottlieb: How Do We Fix It?
The holiday shopping season is underway and finding the right toy or game for his or her kids is the goal of every parent. A vast range of new toys has been introduced in recent months. Joining us in this episode to look at the recent changes is consultant and branding expert, Richard Gottlieb, of Global Toy Experts . "The toy industry is a nineteenth century industry that's trying hard to break into the twenty first," says Richard. "It's had a lot of difficulty dealing with the digital aspect of play that's become so popular." On this show we ask whether today's technologically sophisticated toys are scripting the way kids play. Do they force children into a pre-written narrative when they should be allowing for open-ended play? Toy stores have many traditional toys, such as blocks, construction sets and craft kits, but kids also have fun with "video games, apps and even social networking," says Richard. These new trends have "confronted the industry with a sort of existential crisis: Who are we, what is a toy and how do we play?" Richard has many positive, playful and out-of-the-box ideas on how to view toys and the nature of play in a digital society. "I think it's wonderful that children has all these choices," he tells us. "I wish we had all these choices." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, November 16, 2015
#25 Climate Change: Turning CO2 Into Rock: Peter Kelemen: How Do We Fix It
The demand for energy around the world continues to grow each year. And so does the amount of carbon dioxide that's pumped into the earth's atmosphere. What happens if the world fails to bring down CO2 emissions in the coming decades? What if all the treaties and negotiations over climate change don't succeed in reducing the threat of global warming?Our guest is Peter Kelemen, Chair of Columbia University's Earth and Environmental Sciences Department and Arthur B. Storke Professor of Geochemistry. Last year, Peter was inducted into the National Academy of Sciences. His research on carbon capture and storage may offer one exciting solution to a global crisis. Our show looks at a tool that could fight climate change by taking carbon dioxide and literally locking it up in the earth's crust, right under our feet. Geology research could be used to find new ways to suck up carbon and keep it out of the atmosphere, harnessing a natural process and using some of the fracking techniques now common in oil and gas drilling. We look at the costs as well as the potential offered by this form of breakthrough scientific research. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, November 09, 2015
#24 Why The Federal Reserve Is So Unpopular Roger Lowenstein: How Do We Fix It?
The Federal Reserve plays a fundamental role in our economy. But many Americans loathe The Federal Reserve - furious that The Fed bailed out banks and other huge financial firms during the 2008 financial crisis.Our guest, Roger Lowenstein, is the author of "America's Bank - The Epic Struggle to Create The Federal Reserve." His book is a dramatic account of the chaotic years before The United States became the last major industrialized nation to form a central bank.Our podcast features a lively discussion about American history as well as the present day, with Roger giving us insights that demystify the work of The Fed.Its job is to ensure the smooth operation of the money supply, while keeping inflation and unemployment low. But there are many who are suspicious of the Fed's independence and want to bring it under the tight control of Congress. According to opinion polls, only The IRS is a more unpopular government agency than the Federal Reserve. "You've got two candidates running for President - Rand Paul and Ted Cruz - who want to basically abolish The Fed," says Roger."Had the Fed failed to come in and be the lender of last resort and save the system (in 2008) I think the anger would be very understandable," Roger tells us. But in this case there was the equivalent of a big fire that nearly burned down the financial system, taking the economy with it. "The fireman comes. He puts out the fire and people want to do away with the fire department." Roger Lowenstein explains the need for The Federal Reserve and suggests how it could be less controversial in the future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, November 04, 2015
#23 The Dangers of Confirmation Bias with David McRaney: How Do We Fix It?
More than ever America is divided into political tribes. One person's truth is somebody else's lie. This show is about confirmation bias and filter bubbles: How our brains play tricks on us as we try to make sense of the world.David McRaney, host of the entertaining and popular podcast, "You Are Not So Smart", is our guest. His show is "a celebration of self-delusion." David, who calls himself a psychology nerd, is passionate about the need for all of us to have some understanding of how our brains work. He is the author of two recent books: "You Are Not So Smart" and "You Are Now Less Dumb.Confirmation bias helps us separate into rival political and cultural camps. "This is the thing almost from which everything else springs, because it is the natural default way that human beings tend to make sense of the world," says David.With the growth of Google and social media site, such as Facebook and Twitter, it's easier for us to deny the truth of anything that challenges our preconceived view of the world. We can retreat into our own personal corner of the internet.Behaviorial economics, neuroscience and modern psychology challenge our sense that we make logical, sensible decisions. Our show looks at what confirmation bias means to our democracy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, October 28, 2015
#22 Gender Inequality at Work with Laura Vanderkam. How Do We Fix It?
Women in the workplace face huge challenges, including discrimination and low pay. The Pew Research Center says women's hourly wages are 84% those of men. The White House says the true number is lower. Many firms insist on rigid working hours, making it hard for many employees to balance work and family life. How Do We Fix It? Enter time management and productivity expert Laura Vanderkam, author of "I Know How She Does It: How Successful Women Make the Most of Their Time" and "What The Most Successful People Do Before Breakfast. "Laura shares practical ideas for women and men to make the most of their free time and boost work productivity. She has innovative fixes for working mothers, companies and government policy. Flextime, paid parental leave and family-friendly reforms to Social Security should all be considered," she says. Gender discrimination is "definitely a problem in the workplace," says Laura. "But there is also a personal side to it as well." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, October 21, 2015
#21 Climate Shock: The Global Warming Threat, How Do We Fix It?
If you had a 10% of facing a flood or getting into a fatal car accident, you'd make sure you bought first-rate insurance coverage. That's what our guest Gernot Wagner says we should do about climate change. Science tells us that if we do nothing, there is the risk of a global catastrophe. We hear the argument for climate insurance. Gernot is the co-author of "Climate Shock - The Economic Consequences of a Hotter Planet," and lead senior scientist at the Environmental Defense Fund.Even if climate skeptics are right and the risk of global warming is small, that does not eliminate the need to plan for an extreme emergency. Gernot Wagner makes the case for pricing carbon as a way of boosting the incentives for energy efficiency. "Unless we act, we will experience major disruptions. We already are experiencing them," says Gernot. Our interview also looks the revolution in solar energy and ocean damage caused by rising levels of carbon dioxide.Ready to take action? https://www.edf.org/action Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, October 14, 2015
#20 Insurance Errors: Are You Covered For A Disaster? How Do We Fix It
Many of us make potentially disastrous mistakes with insurance. Either we don't have nearly enough coverage or pay through the nose for duplicate options that we don't need. Insurance expert Laura Adams has easy-to-follow solutions and smart buying tips to save you money. The author of several personal finance books, Laura hosts the popular "Money Girl" podcast. She is Senior Insurance Analyst for InsuranceQuotes.com. To find out more: http://lauradadams.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, October 06, 2015
#19 Lenore Skenazy(Rerun): Free Range Kids
Do helicopter parents need to come in for a landing? Lenore Skenazy, host of the cable TV show, "World's Worst Mom", says yes. The founder of the parenting movement Free Range Kids is Jim and Richard's expert guest. Skenazy argues society fills parents with fear about what might happen to their children. www.freerangekids.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, September 30, 2015
#18 Stock Market Panic and Investor Mistakes: How Do We Fix It?
With recent worries about the global economy and stock market panic, investment expert Susan Schmidt, Senior Portfolio Manager at Westwood Holdings Group, has a simple message: keep calm. 55% of Americans have money in the market. Most are long term savers. She says the basic rules of investing are surprisingly simple. Building wealth means savers should resist emotion and act as investors, not traders, ignoring the day-to-day changes in the market. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, September 23, 2015
#17 We're Sending The Wrong Message To Kids About Jobs: How Do We Fix It?
TV host, writer, author and producer Mike Rowe says America needs to change its understanding about work and face up to the widening skills gap. Many manufacturers can't fill find workers to do well-paid skilled technical and labor one jobs. Mike argues that stereotypes about blue-collar work must change. He's launched the mikeroweWORKS foundation to raise awareness and help young workers. The third season of his popular CNN show, "Somebody's Gotta Do It," starts September 27th. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, September 16, 2015
#16 Campus Free Speech Is Under Threat: How Do We Fix It?
We look at threats to free speech on college campuses with Greg Lukianoff, a constitutional lawyer and CEO of the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education (FIRE). Greg says there's been an alarming rise in trigger warnings and hypersensitivity, with a growing number of students demanding protection from words, ideas and emotions that they don't like. Is this a disaster in the making for education and for students themselves? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, September 09, 2015
#15 The Hysteria Over Sex Offenders: How Do We Fix It?
"Protecting Our Kids?: How Sex Offender Laws Are Failing Us" is the provocative title of the new book by sociology professor Emily Horowitz. She argues that America is in the grip of panic, saying that sex offender laws enacted over the past twenty years have failed to protect children and promote vigilante justice against alleged offenders. Professor Horowitz is chair of sociology and criminal justice at St. Francis College in Brooklyn, New York. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, August 26, 2015
#14 The Housing Market Is Still Broken: How Do We Fix It?
Fear and panic gripped the stock market this week with worries that China's problems could cause a global recession. But is Wall Street out of step with Main Street? Time for a reality check with economist and housing market expert Nela Richardson, Chief Economist at Redfin, the real estate brokerage firm. Nela gives us the low down on the future of the housing market and the U.S. economy, plus suggestions on how we can build a better future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 18, 2015
#13 My Child Has a Terrible Teacher: How Do We Fix It?
How often have heard parents complain about their kids' teachers? Everyone, it seems, has opinions about education, test scores and schools. Who is to blame for poor teaching, and how do we fix it? What makes a teacher great? Elizabeth Green, editor-in-chief of Chalkbeat, is the author of "Building a Better Teacher." She studied teaching methods in America and Japan, and has some innovative solutions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wed, August 12, 2015
#12 The Sour Fight Over Sugary Sodas: How Do We Fix It?
Coca-Cola, the world’s largest maker of sugary sodas, is under fire for giving millions of dollars to a group of scientists who say that lack of exercise is much more important cause of obesity than poor diets. Are they right? Is Coke using scientists to reverse the recent decline in soda sales? And what are the best ways to solve America's obesity crisis? Kelly Brownell, Dean of the Sanford School of Public Health at Duke University, is our guest. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, August 04, 2015
#11 Google: Too Powerful For Our Democracy? How Do We Fix It?
How does Google play to our prejudices, and could its mighty search engine be used to change election results? 75% of all internet searches are done through Google. Our guest is well-known psychologist and author Dr. Robert Epstein, Founder of the Cambridge Center for Behavioral Studies and former Editor-in-Chief Of Psychology Today. His recent research suggests search rankings can have a dramatic impact on voting intentions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, July 27, 2015
#10 Washington's Revolving Door Corruption: How Do We Fix It?
The "revolving door" is a corrupting influence on both government and industry. So says University of Tennessee law professor Glenn Reynolds. He's an outspoken critic of Washington insiders and the blogger behind Instapundit.com, one of America's most widely read political weblogs. On our podcast, Reynolds talks about his intriguing solution to slow down the revolving door: a Surtax that would be imposed on the earnings of high-paid former government officials. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 21, 2015
#9 Our Bad Habits Hold Us Back: How Do We Fix It?
Are you overwhelmed by the flood of information, technology and choices that we all face as consumers? This episode with Jim and Richard features neuroscientist and behavior expert Dr. Peter Whybrow, Director of The Semel Institute at UCLA. His research on the human brain tells us why we make short-term decisions that are often in conflict with our best interests. Dr. Whybrow suggests fixes to help us build better lives and a more caring society. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, July 13, 2015
#8 Hacking: The Online Threat To All Of Us. How Do We Fix It?
Data and identity theft are a threat to all of us. The recent breach of government computers at The Office of Personnel Management was only the latest example of a growing crisis. Adam Levin, founder of credit.com and IDT 911 is a leading expert on data crime. He gives common sense tips and advice on how all consumers can cut their risk of being an identity theft victim. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, July 07, 2015
#7 Your Personal Finance Is A Disaster: How Do We Fix It?
"Anything is possible in your financial life as long as you work hard at it, and want it bad enough," says personal financial expert Farnoosh Torabi. The host of the daily podcast, "So Money," Farnoosh is an nationally known author and journalist, who has dedicated her career to explaining the mysteries of money in savvy, sensible and clear ways. Her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Entrepreneur and many other publications. Learn more about Farnoosh at www.Farnoosh.tv. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, June 29, 2015
#6 The Sharing Economy: A Threat To The Middle Class? How Do We Fix It?
The on-demand economy is a hit with consumers. Uber, Lyft, Homejoy, and other companies provide a growing number of convenient services. But there's a heated debate about how they treat their workers. Should they be classified as independent contractors or full-time employees who qualify health care, disability and other benefits? Richard and Jim's guest is Marcela Sapone, CEO of Hello Alfred, a startup company that dispatches workers to co-ordinate laundry, cleaning, grocery shopping and other chores. She has useful tips for freelancers and outspoken views about how employees should be treated by companies, communities and the government. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thu, June 18, 2015
#5 We Need More Free Range Kids: How Do We Fix It?
Do helicopter parents need to come in for a landing? Lenore Skenazy, host of the cable TV show, "World's Worst Mom", says yes. The founder of the parenting movement Free Range Kids is Jim and Richard's expert guest. Skenazy argues society fills parents with fear about what might happen to their children. http://www.freerangekids.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, April 21, 2015
#1 The Tech Threat To Your Kids: How Do We Fix It?
Computers, video games and mobile devices are a huge temptation for kids. But are they really a threat, or instead a great opportunity for children to learn about the world? In this show Jim and Richard are joined by developmental psychologist Abigail Baird of Vassar College. The mother of two 6-year old twins and an expert on the teenage brain, Abigail has some fascinating fixes for parents who want to strike the right balance on tech for their kids. http://psychology.vassar.edu/bios/abbaird.html Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mon, March 30, 2015
#2 Why We're Bored and Frustrated At Work: How Do We Fix It?
The numbers are alarming. A recent Gallup says that less than one-third of American workers are engaged in their jobs. Millions of employees are either bored or completely fed up. In addition to the human misery this causes dysfunctional workplaces damage businesses and harm the economy. Ron Friedman is the author of "The Best Place to Work: The Art and Science of Creating an Extraordinary Workplace." He has some great tips for both employers and employees.http://thebestplacetoworkbook.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tue, March 17, 2015
#4 Government Red Tape Is A Nightmare: How Do We Fix It?
All of us pay taxes, but how well is that money being spent? Many government services are poorly delivered. From the local DMV or zoning department to the Pentagon and Department of Veterans Affairs, government can be a big tangled mess. For decades, Philip K. Howard has been a leading expert on how streamline government and make it work for all of us. His latest book is "The Rule of Nobody." In this episode, Richard, Jim and Philip a lively conversation about the problem and how to would fix it. http://philipkhoward.com/book/the-rule-of-nobody/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sat, March 14, 2015
#3 Drowning In Credit Card Debt: How Do We Fix It?
Credit card debt is once again on the rise. The average U.S. household that borrows money with high interest credit cards owes $15,000. Many people are overwhelmed by monthly bills. Expert Beverly Harzog has seen the problems from both sides. Author of two helpful books, "Confessions of a Credit Card Junkie," and "The Debt Escape Plan", Beverly knows all about the crisis of bad credit and how to dig yourself out from debt. www.beverlyharzog.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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