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Raising Informed Citizens: The Power of Civic Education and Engagement

Today, we’re tackling yet another topic that couldn’t be more relevant—civic education and the role we all play in shaping the next generation of informed citizens. Politics today is often framed as a battlefield, where division and outrage seem to dominate the conversation. But what if we approached it differently? What if we saw civic engagement not as a fight, but as a shared responsibility—one that starts at home?

My guest today is Lindsey Cormack, an associate professor of Political Science and Director of the Diplomacy Lab at Stevens Institute of Technology. She’s the author of How to Raise a Citizen (And Why It’s Up to You to Do It), a book that explores the vital role parents play in helping their children understand our government, engage in politics constructively, and become active participants in democracy. Lindsey’s work also includes maintaining DC Inbox, a digital archive of congressional e-newsletters, giving her unique insight into how politics is communicated to the public.

In this conversation, we’ll discuss why civic education has been deprioritized, how media algorithms shape our perceptions, and why understanding different political perspectives is crucial for a healthy democracy. Most importantly, we’ll explore how parents and communities can work together to create a more informed and engaged electorate for the future.

Takeaways

• Civic education is essential for youth to understand their role in democracy.
• Parents play a crucial role in teaching their children about politics.
• The current education system often deprioritizes civics education.
• Political engagement should be framed positively, not negatively.
• Toxic polarization hinders constructive political discourse.
• Media algorithms often reinforce divisive narratives.
• Understanding both sides of the political spectrum is vital for informed citizenship.
• Civic engagement is a shared responsibility among parents and communities.
• Encouraging children to participate in politics can lead to a more informed electorate.
• The American political system, despite its flaws, is worth understanding and preserving.

Learn more about and

What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:

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Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

I look forward to hearing from you!

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Radical Moderation: Breaking Free from Binary Thinking

My guest this week is Lauren Hall, a professor of political science, an author, and a thought leader whose work challenges the rigid, binary ways we often think about personal, social, and political issues. She’s written extensively on the medicalization of birth and death, the politics of family, and the crucial need for what she calls radical moderation—a framework that moves beyond “us versus them” thinking and embraces the full complexity of human experience.

Lauren’s approach introduces a four-dimensional way of understanding our world—one that demands humility, curiosity, and a recognition that real solutions exist beyond the false choices we’re so often given. In a time when civil discourse feels like a lost art, her work reminds us of the power of pluralism, gratitude, and the willingness to engage with perspectives outside of our own echo chambers.

Beyond her academic work, Lauren is yet another of my fellow advisors for the ProHuman Foundation, a group committed to fostering open and honest conversations about the issues that shape our lives. In this episode, we’ll explore the dangers of negativity bias, the importance of lived experience, and how practicing radical moderation can help us bridge the divides that seem to grow wider every day.

Takeaways

• Radical moderation challenges binary thinking in society.
• Understanding different dimensions of experience is crucial.
• Lived experiences shape our perspectives and judgments.
• Negativity bias affects how we perceive the world.
• Gratitude can enhance our understanding of others.
• Trade-offs are inherent in every decision we make.
• Complexity in social issues requires humility and curiosity.
• Pluralism acknowledges the diversity of human experiences.
• Engaging in civil discourse can bridge divides.
• We share a common humanity despite our differences.

Learn more about and connect with Lauren K. Hall by checking out the full show notes for this episode at DerateTheHate.com.

What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:

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Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!

Empowering the Next Generation: Breaking Stereotypes and Building Bridges

I’m excited to bring you an inspiring story of transformation and hope with this week's guest, Quay Hanna. Quay’s journey is one of those rare, raw tales that has the power to reshape perspectives. Back in the mid-90s, Quay was just another young man from rural Pennsylvania with preconceived notions and a limited view of the world. But that all changed when he embarked on a nine-week Greyhound bus journey across 37 states. What began as a simple cross-country trip turned into a life-altering experience, chronicled in his memoir Bus America: Revelation of a Redneck.

In the years since, Quay has taken his lessons from the road and transformed them into over 1,300 presentations across multiple countries, speaking with honesty and heart about the importance of understanding, diversity, and confronting stereotypes. His ability to connect with people of all backgrounds and bridge divides has made him a sought-after speaker and a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and community building.

Quay and I also share a common bond as fellow advisors on the ProHuman Foundation, an organization committed to fostering unity and human dignity. Today, we’ll dive into the profound insights he gained on his journey, discuss his work in education and youth empowerment, and explore how simple human connections can dismantle even the most entrenched prejudices.

Takeaways

• A Greyhound bus trip opened Quay's eyes to his own prejudices.
• Quay's experiences highlight the complexity of identity.
• He learned that stereotypes often dictate behavior.
• Quay's transformation was sparked by genuine interactions.
• There is great importance in the understanding of others.
• Ignorance can lead to fear, which breeds hate.
• Quay's journal documented his evolving perspective. Personal connections can break down racial barriers.
• Conversations can challenge our preconceived notions.
• Empathy is key in understanding others.
• Youth today crave genuine connections.
• Education can bridge divides in society.
• Prejudices can be challenged through shared experiences.
• Community support is vital for youth empowerment.
• Empowering youth

What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:

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Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!

Christianity's Role in a Virtuous and Prosperous Democracy

I’m thrilled to welcome back a guest who is both a brilliant thinker and someone I deeply respect, even though we often disagree politically—Jonathan Rauch.

Jonathan is a senior fellow in the Governance Studies program at the Brookings Institution, a contributing writer for The Atlantic, and the author of several thought-provoking books, including Kindly Inquisitors and The Constitution of Knowledge. Some of you might remember when he joined me back in January 2023 to talk about The Constitution of Knowledge and our shared work with Braver Angels, bridging divides and fostering healthier conversations in our polarized world.

Today, Jonathan is here to discuss his latest book, Cross Purposes: Christianity’s Broken Bargain with Democracy. This powerful new work delves into the complex and often fraught relationship between Christianity and democracy in America. Jonathan reflects on his own journey as an atheist from skepticism to a deeper appreciation for the role of Christianity in fostering a virtuous society—something our founders understood as essential for a thriving democracy.

We’ll talk about why fear, outrage, and grievance have become so toxic in our political and civic life, how a more Christ-like approach can help heal societal divides, and what it means to reconnect Christianity with its core tenets. Jonathan challenges us to think about the vital role of 'thick' Christianity—faith that provides meaning, virtue, and community—in building a stronger, more inclusive democracy.

As always, our conversation touches on the work of Braver Angels, the importance of depolarization, and the need for both secular and religious communities to come together with understanding. So, get ready for another insightful conversation with Jonathan Rauch, right here on Derate the Hate. 

Learn more about and connect with Jonathan Rauch by checking out the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com.

What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:

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Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!

Bridging Racial Divides Through Mutual Accountability and Unity

Joining me today is Dr. George Yancey, a distinguished sociologist, professor at Baylor University, and the author of Beyond Racial Division. George is also another of our esteemed members of the ProHuman foundation Board of Advisors. 

Dr. Yancey’s work is both refreshing and deeply needed. While so much of the current conversation around race is polarized—whether it’s the call for colorblindness or the push for anti-racism—he critiques these approaches for their shortcomings. Instead, he advocates for something radically different: mutual accountability, genuine dialogue, and active listening. His Christian-based model for race relations offers practical steps to foster understanding and unity while humanizing, rather than stigmatizing, individuals.

In Beyond Racial Division, Dr. Yancey challenges us to confront the complexities of race without falling into the traps of identity politics or reinforcing division. He emphasizes that finding common ground is valuable, but it’s not always necessary for meaningful connection. It’s about creating better conversations, not just louder ones.

Dr. Yancey’s work aligns closely with the mission of organizations like the Pro Human Foundation, which is committed to promoting unity and a pro-human message. As someone deeply invested in bringing people together, I can’t wait to unpack his insights and explore how we can all play a role in bridging divides.

Takeaways

• George Yancey's work focuses on bridging divides in society.
• His book 'Beyond Racial Division' offers practical steps for addressing racial issues.
• Colorblindness ignores the realities of racial discrimination.
• Anti-racism can create a backlash and reinforce division.
• Mutual accountability is essential for effective dialogue.
• Active listening is crucial for understanding differing perspectives.
• Conversations should aim to humanize rather than stigmatize individuals.
• Identity politics can negatively impact well-being.
• Finding common ground is important, but not always necessary.
• Organizations like the Pro Human Foundation play a vital role in promoting unity.

Learn more about and connect with George Ya

What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!

Finding Purpose, Mastering Gratitude, and Living Intentionally

You know, life can be tough, filled with struggles, setbacks, and uncertainties. But friends, one thing I have learned through my own journey is that purpose and intentionality are powerful tools to not only navigate those challenges but to thrive through them.

Today, I have the incredible privilege of sitting down with my friend, Scott Maderer, founder of Inspired Stewardship. Scott’s work is all about helping people, especially Christians, discover their true purpose and live out their calling with intention and joy. Scott and his wife Carrie started this journey in 2011, and since 2017, they’ve been doing it full-time, offering coaching, workshops, and even writing a book to guide others in aligning their time, talent, and treasures.

In this conversation, we’ll talk about Scott’s own path—how he overcame personal struggles, including financial hardships, to create a life of meaning and service. We’ll unpack the difference between contentment and complacency, the transformative power of gratitude, and how small, intentional changes can lead to big, life-altering results.

Scott’s passion for helping others live authentically shines through in his work, and I’m excited for you to hear his insights on how we can all live a more inspired and purposeful life. So, grab a seat, open your heart, and let’s dive into this powerful conversation with Scott Maderer.

Takeaways

• The journey of finding purpose is ongoing and evolves over time.
• Financial struggles can deeply impact one's mental health and sense of identity.
• Contentment is about gratitude and recognizing what you have, not just material success.
• Gratitude practices can rewire your brain to focus on the positive.
• Joy is a deeper, more lasting feeling than happiness.
• Small, incremental changes can lead to significant life transformations.
• It's important to differentiate between being content and being complacent.
• Training your brain to look for the good can change your perspective on life.
• Everyone has the potential to live an intentional and inspired life.
• Resources and frameworks can help guide individuals towards their calling.

Learn more about and connect with Scott

What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!

Exploring The Third Space: Transcending Rigid Binaries

Joining me again today is my friend, Zander Keig, someone of remarkable depth and impact. Zander wears many hats—award-winning social worker, speaker, educator, caregiver, and bestselling author. You may remember Zander from his 1st appearance on DTH back in September of 2023 when we discussed how the Trans community is often mistakenly believed to be a monolith. Zander is a thought leader with a profound ability to guide individuals and communities toward resolution and redemption. As a ProHuman Foundation Advisor and co-founder of the LGBTQ Caregiver Center, Zander has dedicated his life to bridging divides and fostering unity.

In today’s episode, we’ll unpack concepts from Zander’s book, The Third Space: A Nonconformist’s Guide to the Universe. What is the “Third Space,” and how does it help us transcend the rigid binaries that often define identity and community? Zander brings a unique perspective as a neurodivergent, first-generation Mexican American who has navigated life’s challenges with resilience and grace. His story and insights are a lighthouse for those searching for ways to navigate conflict, isolation, and division.

We’ll discuss how creating inclusive spaces can foster greater understanding, why education is crucial in combatting ignorance and hate, and how organizations like the ProHuman Foundation and Braver Angels are making a difference. Above all, we’ll explore the redemptive potential of human connection—because no matter our past, the future holds possibilities for growth, community, and shared humanity.

Takeaways

• The 'Third Space' allows for unique identities beyond binaries.
• Creating inclusive spaces can foster community and understanding.
• The lighthouse symbolizes guidance and navigation through challenges.
• Education is key to overcoming ignorance and hate.
• Isolation can have severe impacts on mental and physical health.
• Conflict resolution requires recognizing our shared humanity.
• Nonconformity can lead to personal growth and community support.
• The Pro Human Foundation promotes anti-racism through understanding, not division.
• Human connection is essential in combating loneliness and hate.

Learn more

What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!

Strengthen Relationships: Local Solutions To America's Growing Societal Fragility

Today, in yet another of our ProHuman Foundation advisors series, I have the distinct privilege of speaking with someone who’s not only a thought leader but also a seasoned expert in understanding the complex dynamics of fragile states, societies, and communities.

Seth D. Kaplan is the author of Fragile Neighborhoods: Repairing American Society, One Zip Code at a Time. His work focuses on an issue that’s been at the forefront of my mind for quite some time—the fragility of American society, not in terms of political collapse, but in terms of the erosion of social cohesion and interpersonal connections. Seth is a Professorial Lecturer at Johns Hopkins University’s prestigious SAIS program, a Senior Adviser at the Institute for Integrated Transitions, and a visiting fellow at the Mercatus Center’s Program on Pluralism and Civil Exchange. Beyond academia, he’s consulted for organizations like the World Bank and the U.S. State Department, tackling challenges in fragile communities worldwide.

In our conversation today, we’ll explore what makes communities thrive—or falter—and why local action and community engagement are vital to restoring our social fabric. We’ll also delve into how technology and cultural narratives play a role in shaping, or fracturing, those connections. If you’ve ever felt that society is growing more polarized, more disconnected, and less respectful, you’ll find this conversation enlightening—and maybe even empowering.

Takeaways

• Fragile states are politically or socially unstable with low social cohesion.
• American society is fragile due to declining interpersonal relationships.
• Technology has contributed to the isolation and atomization of society.
• Local engagement is crucial for rebuilding community connections.
• Individuals can make a difference by participating in local organizations.
• Cultural change is necessary to address societal issues.
• Constructive narratives should be amplified over polarizing ones.
• People often feel marginalized and disrespected in society.
• Restoring social fabric requires active participation in communities.

Learn more about and connect with Set

What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!

Confronting Addiction and Reclaiming Sobriety Through Personal Transformation

Today, we’re talking about a topic that hits close to home for so many people—addiction, recovery, and the fight to reclaim control of one’s life. Joining me is someone who’s not only walked that difficult path but has turned his journey into a powerful message of hope and transformation. Ken Cox is the author of Reclaim Sobriety: The 12 Rounds of Sobriety, a guide for overcoming addiction and taking back your life, one step at a time. Ken’s story is one of grit, growth, and the relentless pursuit of a better self.

Ken is not just an author; he’s also the President of Hostirian and host of the award-winning Clicks and Bricks podcast. With a career rooted in creating value and solutions for others, he’s built a reputation as a successful entrepreneur and mentor. But today, we’re diving into his personal journey—how boxing, mindset work, and even redefining masculinity helped him rise from the depths of alcoholism and trauma to become a sober gladiator, as he calls it.

Ken’s commitment to youth mentorship and his work with transformative practices like EMDR therapy are inspiring. He’s not just helping others find their way out of addiction—he’s showing them how to reclaim their identity, build resilience, and create a life they can be proud of.

So, get ready for an incredibly impactful conversation about mindset, masculinity, recovery, and the power of personal growth.

Takeaways

• Reclaiming control over one's life is essential for recovery.
• Identifying as a 'sober gladiator' can change one's mindset.
• The journey of recovery often requires redefining personal identity.
• Boxing provided a crucial outlet for Ken's transformation.
• Youth mentorship can be a powerful tool for personal growth.
• Understanding microtraumas is important in helping others.
• Mindset work is critical for overcoming addiction.
• EMDR therapy can aid in processing past traumas.
• Creating a supportive environment for youth is vital.
• Sharing personal stories can help others in their recovery journey.

Learn more about and connect with Ken Cox by checking out the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com.

What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!

Preparing Our Children with the Skills To Navigate Toxic Polarization

Today, we’re diving into one of the most critical topics of our time—how we can equip the next generation to navigate a world that often feels more divided by the day.

As someone who’s worked through my own journey from anger to understanding, I know firsthand the importance of teaching people to bridge divides. But what if we could start even earlier? What if we could teach kids—not just as they grow, but while they’re still forming the skills and perspectives that will shape their entire lives—to think critically, build empathy, and connect across differences?

Our guest today is Kent Lenci, a true pioneer in this space. Kent spent 20 years as a middle school educator, holding roles as a teacher, coach, and leader, before founding Middle Ground School Solutions in 2019. His mission is simple but powerful: to help prepare today’s students to ease tomorrow’s political polarization. From creating curriculum for the Better Arguments Project and the National Week of Conversation to writing his book Learning to Depolarize, Kent has been on the front lines, empowering educators to teach kids how to engage with empathy and civility in a divided world.

We’ll talk about Kent’s journey, the challenges today’s youth face, and why early intervention in education is key to countering the effects of divisive media and polarized environments. Kent will also share actionable insights on fostering emotional intelligence and media literacy in kids, along with the role human connection plays in creating lasting change.

This is exactly the kind of conversation that embodies the spirit of Derate the Hate—finding ways to turn tension into understanding and anger into action.

Takeaways

• Kent Lenci transitioned from teaching to founding Middle Ground Solutions.
• Early intervention in education can prevent polarization.
• Media literacy is essential for critical thinking in youth.
• Emotional intelligence helps children navigate complex social dynamics.
• Building connections across divides is crucial for understanding.
• Human connection is key to overcoming polarization.
• Organizations like Pro Human Foundation and Braver Angels work towards a better future. 

What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!

Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube

Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or directly from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. Not on social media? You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our site’s contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

If you would like to support the show, you’re welcome to DONATE or shop Amazon by going through our Support Us page and I’ll earn through qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

I look forward to hearing from you!