Send Wilk a text with your feedback!

On the Road with US United: How Sheriffs Spark Community Connection

In this episode of Derate The Hate, I’m joined by Adam Mizel, Co-Founder and CEO of Us United, for a conversation that gets right to the heart of how communities heal. Adam and his team are literally on the road, traveling across America to meet with sheriffs, local leaders, and everyday citizens. Their mission? To spark conversations, rebuild trust, and remind us that unity is still possible—even in these divided times.

We dive into the dangers of labels and identity politics, and how they shut down dialogue before it even begins. Adam shares stories from the road about sheriffs stepping up as community connectors, about how sports and local events can bring neighbors together, and about the simple power of listening to one another.

What I love about Adam’s work with Us United is how much it complements the mission we’re pursuing at Braver Angels: creating space for people to show up, talk honestly, and treat one another with respect. This episode will inspire you to think differently about how we bridge divides—because unity isn’t about winning arguments. It’s about communication, connection, and courage.

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 all you’ve got. Make 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 from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact

The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org

Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!

*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.