The Optimistic American

In this episode of The Optimistic American, we examine global political systems and the role of enterprise in shaping nations. Join us as we study how economies navigate challenges and use democratic values to foster growth.

This episode discusses a variety of topics:

• Diverse Thoughts in Schools with Henry Thompson: Thompson and we look at why it's essential for schools to welcome all kinds of ideas.
• Importance of Business Spirit: We examine how creative thinking, minimal rules, and the right to own property can lead to economic growth.
• Democratic Governance: Thompson talks about how governments that control everything, could become open to privatization and letting their people have more freedoms.

Your involvement is what helps these conversations become more than just talks. By engaging with us, we can learn, debate, and inspire each other to shape the future of America and our place in the world together.

Remember, your opinion matters. Please join the discussion by commenting and sharing. Be a part of The Optimistic American journey. Together, we can keep the American dream alive.

You can listen to this episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Google Podcasts! 

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Google Podcasts: https://optamlink.com/google

We post new content every week so make sure to subscribe to stay in the loop.

Learn more about The Optimistic American by checking out our website! https://www.optamerican.com

In this episode of The Optimistic American, we learn conversations techniques with guest Peri Kinder, an acclaimed writer and podcast host with a passion for bridging divides and fostering inclusivity in our diverse nation. In this vibrant conversation, we navigate through the complex layers of human connection, empathy, and the art of active listening.

Here are the key points we will be covering in this episode:

• Defining 'Bad Othering': We seek to understand the concept of "Bad Othering" and its detrimental effects on our society. With Peri, we aim to provide tangible ways to identify this issue and promote a more inclusive and empathetic approach.
• Encouraging Kindness: Peri explores the idea of inculcating kindness and compassion, sharing prudent insights on how we can practice these virtues with loved ones and ourselves.
• Facilitating Connection: We delve into the techniques of establishing meaningful connection, emphasizing the power of simple acts like eye contact and shared laughter, even amidst disagreements.
• Improving Listening Skills: Peri elucidates on the art of holding space for others and active listening without judgment. She also provides strategies for creating a balanced dialogue that respects and values diverse opinions.
• Overcoming Challenges: Taking inspiration from her work as a life coach and yoga instructor, Peri also shares her views on how we can deal with life's obstacles while maintaining a positive outlook.
• Behind the Scenes of "Life and Laughter": Peri offers an inside look at her award-winning podcast, "Life and Laughter," inspiring listeners with her unique blend of humor and wisdom.

We conclude with Peri's compelling perspectives on unity and the importance of celebrating our shared human spirit. Experience her practical wisdom firsthand - a tool we all can use to forge stronger relationships and build a more inclusive, empathetic America.

In this episode of The Optimistic American we look at how intellectual curiosity thrives, and the spirit of American patriotism comes alive. 

This probing episode peels through the layers of complex dialogues surrounding the current status of the US economy and Partisanship. We unfold the dilemmas of free speech within academic institutions, the realties faced by Jewish students, and how Western civilization impacts world history.

• Academic Discourse and Free Speech: We navigate through the heated landscape of academia, as ideas, perspectives, and the principles encompassing free speech tangle with the reality of individual comfort.
• In Conversation with Former Governor Doug Ducey: we guide through his observations on ensuing global events, scrutinized through the American lens.
• Dive into the Economy with Elliot Pollack: Decipher the complexities of our economy with expert economist, Elliot Pollack. Understand balanced budgets, budget deficits, and their peculiar interplay with our economy.
• Partisanship and Tribalism: With Dr. Emily Bashah, explore the divisive trenches of partisanship and tribalism that underline societal divides, and how to overcome these challenges to unite in the spirit of American unity.

Remember, it takes our collective curiosity and unquestionable pride in our nation to help decipher these issues. We shape the future of America when we engage, discuss, and inspire others. Your participation powers this conversation beyond the screen and into our reality. Join us in shaping this discourse, thank you for being a part of The Optimistic American journey. Please comment, share, and participate in the Optimistic American community. Let's rekindle the American spirit, together.

You can listen to this episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Google Podcasts! 

Spotify: https://optamlink.com/spotify

Apple Podcasts: https://optamlink.com/apple

Google Podcasts: https://optamlink.com/google

We post new content every week so make sure to subscribe to stay in the loop.

Learn more about The Optimistic American by checking out our website! https://www.optamerican.com

In this episode of The Optimistic American, we explore the intricate layers of national security, fiscal responsibility, and intellectual freedom. Paul Johnson hosts former Air Force pilot, influential advocate, and congressman, Chris Stewart as he helps us navigate through complex geopolitical realities, the pressing issues of mental health, and the often-underestimated importance of balanced budgets.

We will be covering the following points in this episode:

National Security: We deep-dive into the state of our military and the challenges we face in homeland protection. We assess Washington's role in fortifying our armed forces, ensuring readiness against global threats.

Balanced Budgets: Addressing fiscal responsibility, we discuss the necessity of balanced budgets. We explore the implications of budget deficits and debt, drawing on Stewart's experience in the congressional appropriations committee.

The 'Deep State': Shining light on the shadowy corners of the intelligence community, we confront allegations concerning the 'Deep State.' The conversation uncovers Stewart's perspective on congressional oversight and democratic accountability.

Edward Snowden and Intelligence Disclosure: Discussing the ongoing debate on intelligence disclosures, we reflect on the actions of Edward Snowden. We examine the balance between protection of privacy rights and national security.

Mental Health: Shifting the attention to mental well-being, we explore Stewart's involvement in establishing the National Suicide Prevention hotline. We discuss how best to support individuals struggling with depression and underscore the interplay between mental health and overall community resilience.

Challenges We Face: With references drawn from Stewart's book "The Final Fight for Freedom," we delve into democracy's survival concerns. In light of the challenges, we brainstorm solutions to bridge the political divide for a united America. Find his book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Final-Fight-Freedom-Country-Chaos/dp/1637582145 

Future of the Utah Aerospace and Defense Association: We conclude with a teaser into the exciting plans ahead for the Utah Aerospace and Defense Association and Stewart's new venture, Skyline Capital, co-founded with Robert O'Brien, a former national security adviser. Learn more about the Utah Aerospace and Defence Association at https://www.47g.org/. Visit Skyline Capital's website, https://skylinecapitol.com/.

We hope you enjoy this episode of The Optimistic American Podcast and understand the important role you play in shaping a brighter future for America. Join us in our unwavering belief in the American dream. Together, let’s rekindle the American Spirit. Visit our website to learn more, https://www.optamerican.com/.

Join the host Paul Johnson as we dive into Free Speech, the complexities of Regulation, and the multifaceted issue of the High Prices of Housing. Through this conversation, we focus specifically on the role social media plays in forming public opinion, bringing the spotlight onto regulatory matters and the stumbling blocks in legislation, especially Section 230 and Social Media Regulations.

We are privileged to have special guest Doug Ducey, the former Governor of Arizona, bringing his unique expertise and valuable insights into the conversation.

Also accompanying us in this episode are thought leaders Elliot Pollack and Carson Holmquist. Together, we explore Economic and Political Issues within our increasingly digital world and their seismic impact on the real estate market.

• We'll discuss geopolitical landscapes, inspecting how policies and government financing exert influence over the High Price of Housing. We delve into the specifics, looking at Europe's regulatory approach and California's Assembly Bill 68.
• We'll also look at the root causes of the California Housing Crisis. How can policy adaptations steer us towards a solution? This forms the crux of our discussions.
• We discuss the complex issues surrounding public debt and the potential implementation of a Balanced Budget Amendment. Would this seismic shift fundamentally reshape Government Financing strategies?

This video is a must-watch for anyone interested in free enterprise, housing policies, social media regulations, and the wider economic landscape. Let us know if like the new formatted series, how we might improve it, if we should continue it.

We post new content every week so make sure to follow us to stay in the loop and to support our goal of rekindling the American Spirit. Learn more about The Optimistic American by checking out our website! https://www.optamerican.com

Dive deep into the heart of American politics in this riveting episode. As the curtain falls on season 4, explore the pivotal role of political reform, the significance of individualism, and the influence of patriotic heroism. Uncover the might of the individual, honor the heroes who shaped the nation, and explore the potential for a brighter future through political reform.

As we usher in season 5, gear up for a captivating journey into the American political landscape.

Mentioned in This Episode:

optamerican.com

Addictive Ideologies: Finding Meaning and Agency When Politics Fail You by Dr Emily Bashah and Hon Paul Johnson

The Optimistic American on YouTube - @optamerican

Become a premium supporter of the show: OptAmerican.com/premium

In this episode of The Optimistic American, Paul Johnson reviews the second republican debate. He shares how Independent and unaffiliated voters will determine the next President and how they view the major talking points from the debate.

• Paul starts by describing how the second republican debate will affect Independent voters.
• The effect of Independent voters' impact on primaries are not easy to poll.
• According to Paul’s background in presidential campaigns, Independent voters will determine the winner in the New Hampshire, and the debate will undoubtedly shape their opinions. 
• The debate at the Reagan Library raised Ronald Reagan's unique qualities that set him apart from other presidents.
• Paul goes through critical points from the debate and how each contestant addressed the controversial issues plaguing America today.
• Some of the main topics covered include:
  1. The Federal Deficit. Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie said his top priority would be to rein in federal spending.
  2. Growing Powers of the Presidency. Mike Pence critiqued Donald Trump's new plan to centralize power in the Presidency if he wins, and shared his thoughts on why we should not increase the power of the presidency; instead make the federal government smaller.
  3. Child Care. Tim Scott talks about the ever-increasing childcare costs and how lowering taxes will mean Americans will have more in their pockets to take care of their families.
  4. The Ukraine Issue. Arguably the most important question asked in the debate. The presidential candidates showed a deep divide over America's involvement in the war. Supporters of Ukraine included Christie, Halley and Pense. Opponents included DeSantis and Ramaswamy.
  5. Abortion Rights. The pro-life and pro-choice debate was another controversial issue regarding being 100% pro life versus finding middle ground.  Paul believes this will be crucial in swaying the independent voters.
• Paul supported Halley’s position on fixing healthcare in America until we figure out how to reduce claims costs.
• In healthcare, there is no better way to do that than the private sector route. If allowed to do so, the private sector can do a better job of cutting claims costs than the government.
• The candidates discussed whether AI technology is good or bad for Americans. Paul explains that although AI technology may have some risks, it's a much bigger risk if we allow China to get AI technology before we do.
• For Paul, the clear winners from the debate were Governor Nikki Haley and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie. Both had a solid performance and will undoubtedly see their numbers grow.

Mentioned in This Episode:

optamerican.com

Addictive Ideologies: Finding Meaning and Agency When Politics Fail You by Dr Emily Bashah and Hon Paul Johnson

The Optimistic American on YouTube - @optamerican

Become a premium supporter of the show: OptAmerican.com/premium

Optimistic American Worksheet Downloads - OptAmerican.com/worksheets

Dr. Emily Bashah

A Nation of Victims: The Decay of the American Character by Charles J. Sykes

In this episode of The Optimistic American, Paul Johnson sits down with Dr. Emily Bashah to discuss social pressures of fitting in and morality and its role in shaping human behavior. They talk about the ethical dilemma people face when their moral compass is at odds with societal expectations.

• Paul starts the discussion by describing how morality can make or break a society.
• He reveals how morality often comes into conflict with social status - people would rather be morally wrong than lose their place in society.
• Emily breaks down how Tribalism can devastate us as individuals.
• Paul and Emily break down shocking morality stories from the Bosnia ethnic cleansing campaigns - the worst act of mass killing in Europe since World War 2.
• According to Paul, two natures in each of us are constantly at war: good versus evil.
• Paul and Emily agree that it doesn’t matter what group you’re in. We all want to fit into some social establishment.
• Emily defines cognitive dissonance and how people can navigate the conflict between values and behavior.
• For Emily, it’s not weak to avoid fights. Strength comes from picking the battles that are worthy and important.
• We are social creatures, and we are primed to crave a sense of belonging.
• Paul talks about forgiveness and why some people struggle to let go of their anger, hurt, and desire for vengeance.
• If you want to be patriotic, Paul believes the best place to start is to stop insulting other Americans.
• Paul and Emily discuss how cognitive dissonance played a role in the Rwanda and Bosnia genocides.
• Emily talks about people’s internal battle between doing what’s right and the need to fit in.
• Paul covers the common morality issues plaguing our society today.
• Want to learn how to be kind? Start by trusting your morality instead of following your ego.

Mentioned in This Episode:

optamerican.com

Addictive Ideologies: Finding Meaning and Agency When Politics Fail You by Dr Emily Bashah and Hon Paul Johnson

The Optimistic American on YouTube - @optamerican

Become a premium supporter of the show: OptAmerican.com/premium

Optimistic American Worksheet Downloads - OptAmerican.com/worksheets

Dr. Emily Bashah

The Gulag Archipelago by A. Solzhenitsyn

In this episode of The Optimistic American, Paul Johnson sits down with Dr. Emily Bashah to discuss the effects of love and forgiveness on our psychological and physiological well-being. They cover topics like the numerous benefits of forgiving others, lessons from countries who endured genocide, the use of forgiveness, what the research says about forgiveness, and much more.

• Paul starts the conversation by describing the research on the physiological and psychological benefits of love and forgiveness.
• Learning to forgive is not something you do for someone else's benefit but for your own good.
• Emily reveals how non-forgiveness can negatively impact a person's existence.
• Paul and Emily go through the research on the similarities between stress and hate-motivated behavior.
• Paul shares his thoughts on the stressful nature of American politics and how people can shield themselves from toxic politics.
• What the research says about the healing nature of forgiveness and letting go of hate.
• Emily believes forgiveness does not mean wrongdoers get away with what they did to you. Forgiveness is choosing to let go of the burden of someone else's wrongdoing.
• Paul adds that forgiveness doesn't mean you're a pushover. It means you're ready to accept what happened and are willing to find a way to go on productively with your life.
• Emily and Paul discuss the lessons we can learn from Bosnia and Rwanda after their genocides about forgiveness.
• Emily highlights why it's not a good idea to let politics or ideologies come in between you and your loved ones.
• Paul reveals how freeing it felt when he learned to forgive his political rivals. 
• According to Paul, forgiveness is self-healing. The act of forgiving someone often leaves you in a better position than the people you forgive.
• You don't have to give up on your values to forgive someone. You can be kind to them even though they're not treating you with the utmost kindness.
• Emily reveals how she focuses on understanding the other person before seeking to be understood when disagreements arise.
• For Paul, we live in an unfortunate environment where there is a daily barrage of negative news telling us who we should hate. This hate is creating a prolonged exposure to stress and is damaging our health and our society.

Mentioned in This Episode:

optamerican.com

Addictive Ideologies: Finding Meaning and Agency When Politics Fail You by Dr Emily Bashah and Hon Paul Johnson

The Optimistic American on YouTube - @optamerican

Become a premium supporter of the show: OptAmerican.com/premium

Optimistic American Worksheet Downloads - OptAmerican.com/worksheets

Dr. Emily Bashah

In this episode of The Optimistic American, Paul Johnson sits down with Dr. Emily Bashah to discuss the psychological benefits of being an independent or non-affiliated voter. The duo breaks down the benefits of being an independent voter, the rise of moral relativism in America, and how politicians benefit from being social chameleons.

• Paul and Emily start the conversation by describing the psychological benefits of being an independent or a non-affiliated voter.
• Paul shares his thoughts on the American political duopoly and its effect on the American system. He also discusses major reforms he would like to see.
• According to Gallup, 49% of Americans identify as independent or non-affiliated voters.
• The big question is why? Paul and Emily agree that people today want the freedom to think independently without necessarily being allied to a particular political group.
• Paul defines agency as having a firm understanding of who you are and understanding your role in creating the future you want.
• Emily talks about the temptation and seduction of modern tribalism and its damage to human psychology.
• All people are challenged between fitting into their social groups and conflicts with their moral values. In this conflict most people pick their social group, although possibly unwittingly. This gives extreme groups in both political parties the ability to change public opinion to the point of making all of us more divided.
• Paul believes there's good and evil inside everyone. However, parties and ideology allow us to frame groups as good and evil. Thus encouraging us to objectify others. Political parties encourage this behavior.
• Emily breaks down cognitive dissonance, how it works, and what you can do to free yourself from addictive ideologies.
• Paul and Emily share their thoughts on moral relativism in American society today.
• Leaders benefit from being social chameleons and turning into what they feel a group needs from them to maintain that power.
• If you are considering how to register to vote, you might consider being unaffiliated or independent. This will allow you to think more critically about issues, and see others as individuals as opposed to seeing them as part of a group. This improves your life by creating greater options for the things you want.
• It's healthier to be an independent voter because you have greater agency through avoiding the social pressures of either political group.
• According to Paul, most people know when something's not right, but they would rather justify their wrongness than risk losing their position in the group.
• Paul and Emily talk about the Amygdala hijack and how elected officials use fear to terrify their followers about the opposing group. It is easier to scare you if you are a member of a tribal party.
• Paul explains why he believes the partisan primary system is not working for America and how it's feeding this delusion that everything is falling apart.
• Emily goes through the benefits of being an independent/non-affiliated voter.

Mentioned in This Episode:

optamerican.com

Addictive Ideologies: Finding Meaning and Agency When Politics Fail You by Dr Emily Bashah and Hon Paul Johnson

The Optimistic American on YouTube - @optamerican

Become a premium supporter of the show: OptAmerican.com/premium

Optimistic American Worksheet Downloads - OptAmerican.com/worksheets

Dr. Emily Bashah