In this episode, host Corey Nathan welcomes Kamy Akhavan, Executive Director at the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future and former CEO of ProCon.org. Kamy shares his extraordinary journey from war-torn Iran to becoming a champion of civil discourse and political bridge-building in the United States. 

What We Discuss:

Kamy’s powerful immigration story and personal connection to today’s immigration challenges

What's actually happening in Los Angeles vs what many news programs are showing

How debate and listening helped shape Kamy’s open-minded leadership

The mission of USC’s Center for the Political Future and its bipartisan impact

The root causes of polarization and how we can counteract them

Why respect, listening, and humility are foundational for meaningful dialogue

Episode Highlights:

[00:01:00] Kamy’s homage to Parliament Funkadelic and Sly Stone

[00:06:00] Living through war in Iran and escaping with his family

[00:14:00] Adjusting to poverty in Louisiana and finding strength in education

[00:18:00] Discovering a passion for political discourse through debate

[00:27:00] Leaving management consulting to lead ProCon.org

[00:30:00] Kamy's role at USC’s Center for the Political Future

[00:39:00] Building a culture where tough conversations can happen respectfully

[00:55:00] A deeper look into today’s immigration debates and polarization

Featured Quotes:

Resources Mentioned:

USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future: https://dornsife-center-for-political-future.usc.edu/

ProCon.org: https://www.procon.org/

The Democracy Group: https://www.democracygroup.org/

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