Is America thriving or falling behind? The answer may surprise you.

In this episode of New Frontiers, former Phoenix Mayor Paul Johnson sits down with Professor Douglas Harris of Tulane University, creator of the groundbreaking State of the Nation and State of the States projects.

While America's economy continues to outperform much of the world, Americans are reporting lower levels of happiness, trust, life satisfaction, and optimism. Why is there such a massive disconnect between the economic data and how people actually feel?

Professor Harris reveals the metrics that matter most when measuring a nation's success—including income growth, income inequality, life satisfaction, trust, education, mental health, and social mobility.

Joining the conversation is economist Elliott Pollack, who offers insights on housing affordability, productivity, education, economic growth, and the American Dream.

If you've ever wondered whether America is truly declining—or whether the data tells a different story—this is a conversation you don't want to miss.