Therefore, what?

In a day when so-called leaders reign with iron-fisted, command and control, top-down approaches – Utah’s former governor says the fastest way to the top is bottom. Gary R. Herbert, who served 12 years as Utah’s 17th Governor shares vital lessons and critical strategies from his season of service. Lessons every leader should learn on this episode of “Therefore, what?”  Want more Boyd? Listen to KSL Newsradio's "Inside Sources with Boyd Matheson," Monday through Thursday from 11 am to noon at 1160 AM and 102.7 FM, online at KSLNewsradio.com, or on the KSL Newsradio App, or on-demand as a podcast. Sign up for his weekly newsletter and follow him on Twitter. Produced by KellieAnn Halvorsen. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

America is more technologically connected than at any point in history. Yet, social capital seems to be in decline, political divisions run deep, communities are crumbling, and the country appears to be more narcissistic and fragmented than ever before. Robert Putnam, the Malkin Research Professor of Public Policy at Harvard University and author of Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community, and Shaylyn Romney Garrett, writer and founding contributor to Weave: The Social Fabric Project are co-authors of The Upswing: How America Came Together a Century Ago and How We Can Do It Again. Today with Boyd  they discuss if the answer to what ails society is found in the “We” of “We the people,” on this episode of "Therefore, What?” Want more Boyd? Listen to KSL Newsradio's "Inside Sources with Boyd Matheson," Monday through Thursday from 11 am to noon at 1160 AM and 102.7 FM, online at KSLNewsradio.com, or on the KSL Newsradio App, or on-demand as a podcast. Sign up for his weekly newsletter and follow him on Twitter. Produced by KellieAnn Halvorsen.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When discussing foreign relations, national security, and America's role in the world, conversations tend to drift towards words like might strength, weapons, sanctions, and capability. What if that clearly narcissistic approach was actually making international matters worse? And what if the better approach was centered in empathy? Would anyone believe it? or listen to it? Former National Security Adviser HR McMaster makes the case for strategic empathy on this episode of "Therefore, What?" Want more Boyd? Listen to KSL Newsradio's "Inside Sources with Boyd Matheson," Monday through Thursday from 11 am to noon at 1160 AM and 102.7 FM, online at KSLNewsradio.com, or on the KSL Newsradio App, or on-demand as a podcast. Sign up for his weekly newsletter and follow him on Twitter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many organizations have struggled in the midst of the pandemic. Think tanks and policy shops are the places where hallway conversations, events, and gatherings, are not just nice; they're absolutely necessary. Robert Doar, president of American Enterprise Institute (AEI) discusses how AEI is thriving, succeeding, and expanding its reach and influence even amid a pandemic. Beyond organizational success, Robert discusses the principles that lead to the most American of dreams; opportunity and upward mobility. These topics and more on this episode of "Therefore, What?" Want more Boyd? Listen to KSL Newsradio's "Inside Sources with Boyd Matheson," Monday through Thursday from 11 am to noon at 1160 AM and 102.7 FM, online at KSLNewsradio.com, or on the KSL Newsradio App, or on-demand as a podcast. Sign up for his weekly newsletter and follow him on Twitter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Politicians and pundits love to talk about criminal justice reform and important progress has and continues to be made to root out racism and bias in law enforcement and sentencing. But according to a group of former long time felons and drug addicts who have over 400 arrests between them and over 150 years of combined incarceration, true criminal justice reform begins with accountability. True accountability they say is the essence of true compassion. Founder of The Other Side Academy, bestselling author and behavioral influence strategist Joseph Granny joins us on this special edition of "Therefore, what?" See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a day of cutthroat competition, scarcity mentality, and zero-sum thinking, one advertising agency is doing it differently. Harmon Brothers chief creative officer Daniel Harmon shares a behind-the-scenes look at the principles that drive their unprecedented success and how they shared those principles in an extraordinary #PoopToGold contest. The advertising agencies' mindest and marketing tips are benefiting fellow businesses like the winner of the contest, GoTreads. Check it out on this episode of "Therefore, what?" Want more Boyd? Listen to KSL Newsradio’s “Inside Sources with Boyd Matheson,” Monday through Thursday from 11 am to noon at 1160 AM and 102.7 FM, online at KSLNewsradio.com, or on the KSL Newsradio App, or on-demand as a podcast. Sign up for his weekly newsletter and follow him on Twitter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a world that is starving for content that is fitting for children in our homes, VidAngel has played a critical role, but not always a successful role through failures through opposition and through connection. They're creating something that is sweeping the globe, ironically a series focused on the life of Jesus Christ called "The Chosen," with a crowdsource funding mechanism and a pay-it-forward model. They are literally changing entertainment today. VidAngel CEO Neil Harmon joins us on this edition of "Therefore, What?" Want more Boyd? Listen to KSL Newsradio’s “Inside Sources with Boyd Matheson,” Monday through Thursday from 11 am to noon at 1160 AM and 102.7 FM, online at KSLNewsradio.com, or on the KSL Newsradio App, or on-demand as a podcast. Sign up for his weekly newsletter and follow him on Twitter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

McKay Coppins, staff writer for The Atlantic, writes a front-page deep-dive feature on The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He posits that for more than 200 years the church has tried to assimilate into America only to find the country in an identity crisis. Coppins takes a look at what the third century will look like for the faith. McKay joins us for a special edition of "Therefore What?"  Want more Boyd? Listen to KSL Newsradio’s “Inside Sources with Boyd Matheson,” Monday through Thursday from 11 am to noon at 1160 AM and 102.7 FM, online at KSLNewsradio.com, or on the KSL Newsradio App, or on-demand as a podcast. Sign up for his weekly newsletter and follow him on Twitter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mental health struggles naturally spill into the workplace,especially in a pandemic, they affect job performance, engagement, communication abilities, and physical capabilities. All of these things impact businesses, individuals, families, and communities. One business is determined to take the “Mental Illness” conversation and turn it into “Mental Fitness.”Room Here is a nonprofit organization focused on mental fitness and healthier minds at work. Cofounders Trent Mano and Rachel Merrill, join us to tackle that crucial conversation of mental wellness at work on this episode of “Therefore, What?” “Therefore, What?” Is a weekly podcast that breaks down the news, while breaking down barriers, challenges you and the status quo, explores timeless topics and timeless principles and leaves you confident to face what's next. Host and Deseret News opinion editor Boyd Matheson shares his thoughtful perspective on issues at the heart of American political civic life.  Want more Boyd? Listen to KSL Newsradio’s “Inside Sources with Boyd Matheson,” Monday through Thursday from 11 am to noon at 1160 AM and 102.7 FM, online at KSLNewsradio.com, or on the KSL Newsradio App, or on-demand as a podcast. Sign up for his weekly newsletter and follow him on Twitter. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As many institutions of higher education are struggling with the impact of the pandemic and disruption to centuries-old education models, one institution, BYU Pathway Worldwide, is growing at an extraordinary pace, reaching over 50,000 students in 150 countries. Clark Gilbert, president of BYU Pathway Worldwide, joins us to discuss how they are unlocking and unleashing human potential around the world on this episode of "Therefore, What?" See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Texts, tweets, emails and social media messages drive our days. In the midst of a pandemic, more and more people are feeling disconnected, isolated and alone. Reconnecting and building meaningful relationships may only be one neighborhood away or one world famous neighbor away. Journalist Court Mann takes us inside the legacy of connecting personal letters from Fred Rogers, "Mr. Rogers" to thousands of neighbors he never met but who he touched deeply. All of that and more on this episode of "Therefore, What?" See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a cynical world where the motives of business and politicians are regularly called into question, is it possible to lead and live for all the right reasons? Learn 12 timeless principles for living a life of harmony with USANA CEO Kevin Guest on this special episode of "Therefore, What?" See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Labor Day is typically the beginning of the fall political season. This year, one prominent political organization is challenging the nation to stop talking politics for 24 hours and instead celebrate America. Find out more on this episode of "Therefore, What?" See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Our nation seems to be more fractured than ever before. The global pandemic has not served to unite Americans against a deadly common foe, the coronavirus, but instead we become further divided along political lines. Party lines, civil unrest and economic uncertainty have all created a broken America rather than work to heal the wounds. It seems that current political leadership as well as general discourse in the media and the American public is widening the gulf between us in terms of getting real results. Join us today for a look at "Broken America, 10 guiding principles to restore America," with Dr. Jim White on this episode of "Therefore, What?" See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Over the past four months, Utahns, Americans and citizens around the world have attempted to deal with novel coronavirus. States and nations have struggled mightily with what to do, what government mandates were needed or necessary and how to get individuals and communities to take appropriate action. It is time for citizens to come together for 55 days for a big challenge - moonshot big. From now until Labor Day join us for our 55-day Moonshot challenge: Our quest to quell the pandemic. Moonshot.deseret.com

Freedom of religion or belief is an expansive right. That includes the freedoms of thought, conscience, expression, association and assembly. In America, religious freedom is considered a first freedom. Yet it is not so around the world. And in many places, this core human right is the subject of great persecution. Today, we talked to Gayle Manchin, vice chairwoman of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, on this episode of "Therefore, What?" 

Countless individuals feel overcommitted, overworked and overloaded. Many are exhausted by trying to do more. Guilt comparisons and attempting to have it all weigh heavy on hearts, minds and souls. Could the solution be found in doing less? The author of New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller "Essentialism" — Greg McKeown —   joins us to explore the disciplined pursuit of less on this episode of "Therefore, What?"

A global pandemic, civil unrest and economic uncertainty have swept the nation. Despite such challenges more people are giving more than ever before. Rabbi Yehuda Gurwitz, CEO of Charidy.com, is out to make the impossible possible by cultivating a spirit of generosity. Join us for an inspiring conversation on this episode of "Therefore, What?"

Everyone at some point in their career needs a shark. Well, everyone needs a mentor to be sure. Kevin Harrington actually is both an original shark on the hit TV show "Shark Tank." Kevin knows what it takes to mentor entrepreneurs and individuals on the journey to excellence and ultimate success. Learn from this legendary entrepreneur on this episode of "Therefore, What?"

It has been said that ideas go booming through the world like cannons, thoughts are mightier than armies and principles have achieved more victories than horsemen or chariots. Inspiring ideas, transformational thoughts and powerful principles are exactly what America and the world need in the midst of the novel coronavirus pandemic. So today we turn to one of the world’s great thinkers, historically principled idea guys and the ultimate policy entrepreneur. Former Speaker of the United States House of Representatives Newt Gingrich joins us from Rome, Italy, for a deep dive, elevating conversation – on this episode of “Therefore, what?”

Many individuals and organizations are hunkering down in the midst of the current coronavirus crisis and economic upheaval. The essential trait for leading a business, community or country through a crisis is vision. Author and business strategist Mark Johnson joins us to discuss his new book, "Lead from the Future" – on this episode of “Therefore, What?”

The coronavirus pandemic has challenged global leaders and individual citizens on many levels. Focus, resilience, endurance and leadership are traits critical to survive and thrive in the midst of uncertainty. Astronaut Scott Kelly shares his strategies for navigating the extreme challenges of long-term spaceflight, isolation from loved ones, the pressure of high-risk situations and the mental toughness to take on challenges beyond your control. Gravity-defying wisdom, grounded in earthly insight for our times — all on this episode of "Therefore, What?"

Coping with change, dealing with difficulties and creating a culture of excellence are critical leadership skills. BYU head basketball coach Mark Pope applies these principles for his players, the team's fans and for the community. Today he shares important lessons that transcend sports and apply to the challenges of the coronavirus world. All on this episode of "Therefore, What?"

The novel coronavirus has changed many things for many citizens around the world. But does COVID-19 bring with it a "new normal?" I say, “No way!” Join me for some perspective on where we are and what comes next on this special episode of “Therefore, What?”

Parenting has never been more challenging. Technology, social media and today’s mainstream culture are undermining morals and values while elevating narcissism and disbelief. It is increasingly difficult for children to learn the principles of character and the power of faith in a morally-relative world. Phil Vischer is an author, speaker, filmmaker, voice actor and creator of the wildly successful Christian children's series VeggieTales®. Phil joins us today to discuss his latest work along with his proven resources and strategies for teaching critical principles to the next generation  – on this episode of “Therefore, what?”

America's space program has often captured the imagination of the nation and galvanized the country in a common goal. NASA is entering a new phase of exploration with new leadership. Jim Bridenstine is NASA's 13th administrator and joins us to share his vision of why exploring the galaxies still matters today, how women will lead the next mission to the moon and the path to taking America to Mars. All this and more on this episode of "Therefore, What?" 

Trust is at an all-time low. Trust in businesses, institutions, public leaders and even in individuals seem to be broken beyond repair. Dr. David Miller, director of the Princeton University Faith & Work Initiative, has searched the world's wisdom traditions for ways to repair trust. Join us for a fascinating look at the principles that can restore and strengthen trust on this episode of "Therefore, What?"  

Nothing is more vital in the midst of turbulent times than great leadership. Doris Kearns Goodwin has spent her career studying the lives of American presidents and gleaning the lessons from great historic figures. She is a world-renowned presidential historian, public speaker and Pulitzer Prize-winning, New York Times' No. 1 bestselling author. Join us for a fascinating look back at history, with a focus on the principles of leadership, and a look forward into the future of freedom on this episode of "Therefore, What?"

It has been said that it's the space between the bars that holds the tiger. And it's the silence between the notes that makes the music. It is out of the silence, or "the gap," or that space between our thoughts, that everything is created — including our own bliss. Join me to explore that space — the space between heartbeats and an actual beating heart, where award-winning pianist and composer Paul Cardall — on the 10th anniversary of receiving a heart transplant — has discovered music that brings the peace that can heal the human heart. Discover the story, insight, passion and principles behind a most amazing human and extraordinary musician — on this episode of “Therefore, What?”

The state of trust in America seems to be in freefall. Trust in government, big business and large institutions has unraveled. Distrust has begun to fray the fabric of society and erode trust in community, neighbors and even between individuals. True leaders recognize that a culture of trust is not just a nice to have HR program. A culture of trust is key to innovation, excellence and sustainable success. Legendary leader and entrepreneur Joel Peterson, chairman of JetBlue Airways and founding partner of the investment management firm Peterson Partners, shares his 10 laws of trust on this episode of "Therefore, What."

In a divisive and tumultuous time, is America still worth celebrating or emulating?

Business, political and community leaders are constantly faced with the challenge of how to best impact the behavior of those they lead. Solving big issues for individuals, organizations and society as a whole requires more than strong-armed efforts to control behavior. World renowned author and change agent Joseph Grenny reveals a better way to create rapid change and lasting change as he shares the essential components of transformational influence, all on this episode of "Therefore, What?"  Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox at: http://www.deseretnews.com/tw

Addiction in all its forms is inflicting damage on individuals, families and communities in epidemic proportions. The scourge has been met with myriad methods, treatments and programs. Sadly, relapse is more common than recovery. Can changing the mental framing for current alcoholics or those addicted to or dependent on drugs change the game? Todd Sylvester offers hope healing and a path to transcending current negative behavior on this episode of "Therefore, What?" Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox at: http://www.deseretnews.com/tw

Troubling trends are eroding the strength of the American family, trust in the institutions of government and confidence in America's future. George Will takes a look back while providing a critical look ahead in his new book, "The Conservative Sensibility." This is a clarion call for substantive thinking, at a time when Americans are hungry for strong leadership and a renewed debate for the soul of our country. Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox at: http://www.deseretnews.com/tw

Most of us will never attempt to scale Mount Everest or even the Matterhorn, but we all face mountains in our lives, real challenges that require real discipline and real skills. We'll talk about what it takes to climb the world's highest point with Greg Paul on this edition of "Therefore, What?" Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox at: http://www.deseretnews.com/tw

Every day, tens of thousands of Americans have access to words shared by Boyd Matheson. Some have his words delivered to their front porch or bookmarked on their web browser, others access him via his daily radio show while still others access him on-demand interviewing some of the nation's greatest thought leaders in this, his weekly podcast, "Therefore, What?" But, who is Boyd Matheson? How did this college dropout go on to to be the head of the Sutherland Institute, chief of staff for Utah Sen. Mike Lee, become a regular contributor on CNN and FOX News and end up becoming the opinion editor of the Deseret News? What were the lessons and principles that made him who he is today, and as we celebrate the first 50 episodes of his podcast, what were his biggest takeaways and "therefore" moments. That and more on this episode of "Therefore, What?" Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox at: http://www.deseretnews.com/tw

In a world of uncertainty, we often encounter unexpected questions and complexities that can challenge our faith. Faith in God, faith in ourselves and faith in the people around us can be undermined in the midst of such unexpected questions and complexities. Bruce and Marie Hafen join us to offer fresh concepts and timeless tools with their new book, "Faith is Not Blind," on this episode of "Therefore, What?"  

Music is a universal language which transcends culture and nationality. For more than a century, the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square has used that language to influence millions around the world. The 360 voices, the orchestra, under the influence of two dynamic directors, demonstrate how a volunteer organization can achieve the extraordinary. Music director Mac Wilberg and associate music director Ryan Murphy join us for a unique conversation about leadership, inspiration and the transformational power of music on this episode of "Therefore, What?" Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox at: http://www.deseretnews.com/tw

Abuses of federal power, including federal overreach and over-regulation, balance of power between the legislative and executive branches, along with issues within the judicial system are rampant. All the issues appear rooted in the neglect of the Declaration of Independence. Could rediscovering the declaration renew the nation and restore power to the people? Utah's senior senator, Sen. Mike Lee, explores the issue on this edition of "Therefore, What?"

Coaching a Division I basketball program contains countless lessons for life and business. Building a culture of excellence, overcoming adversity, grittiness and determination, and even a broken chair during an interview provide important perspective and powerful principles. Mark Pope, the new head coach of Brigham Young University's men's basketball program, joins us on this episode of "Therefore, What?" Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox at: http://www.deseretnews.com/tw

We live in a society that celebrates freedom and a selfie culture where self-interest and looking out for No. 1 is all that matters. America has taken rugged individualism to the extreme, and in the process, the social fabric of the country has been rent. Hatred, fragmentation and disconnection in our society is not just a political problem. It stems from some moral and spiritual crisis. Could the path to repair possibly be found through making deeper commitments? Author of "The Second Mountain," David Brooks, joins us to discuss what can happen when we put commitment making at the center of our lives on this episode of "Therefore, What?"   Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox at: http://www.deseretnews.com/tw

Divisive politicians, screaming heads on TV, angry campus activists, Twitter trolls. In America today there is an outrage industrial complex that prospers big time while setting Americans against each other. New York Times bestselling author and social scientist Arthur Brooks joins us to discuss "Love Your Enemies," a possible solution on this week's edition of "Therefore, What?" Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox at: http://www.deseretnews.com/tw

History is made of individual biographies. It is the work of the biographer to capture the principles that make that history possible. Sheri Dew is the Executive Vice President and Chief Content Officer of Deseret Management Corporation. She's a best-selling author and the biographer for three presidents of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Today, Sheri Dew discusses her latest biography, "Insights From a Prophet's Life: Russell M. Nelson" on this episode of "Therefore, What?"Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox at: http://www.deseretnews.com/tw  

Global poverty is one of the world's most vexing problems. For decades, billions of dollars have been raised, donated and spent on poverty efforts with little long term-success or gains. Is there a better way to improve lives and sustain freedom and prosperity? The answer may be found in what is called "The Prosperity "Paradox. Lean in and learn how innovation can lift nations out of poverty and propel entrepreneurs to sustainable success on this episode of "Therefore, What?"Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox at: http://www.deseretnews.com/tw  

Higher education costs are soaring. Many students are leaving college buried in debt and ill-prepared to compete in a global economy. Elite schools seemed attainable only to the wealthy and the well-connected. Is there a better way to meet the needs of 21st-century students? Scott Pulsipher, president of Western Governors University, talks higher education innovation on this episode of "Therefore, What?"  Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox. Sign Up Here

America faces a multitude of challenges, including intergenerational poverty, an opioid epidemic, overcrowded prisons, the breakdown of nuclear families, capable yet unemployed men, political tribalism and the loss of institutions of civil society. Could character be the solution? When looking to influence behavior, could a focus on the principles of character bring about greater change? Anne Snyder explores the transformative power of institutions committed to character-driven development on this episode of "Therefore, What.

The American people are longing for leaders to fill the role of statesman and stateswoman. Sadly, leaders willing to put people and principles before party and politics are vanishing from view on the national stage.  Former United States Sen. Joe Lieberman, a true statesman, shares his insight on political courage, bipartisan collaboration, faith in the public square, and lessons from a lifetime of public service on this episode of  “Therefore, what?”Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox at: http://www.deseretnews.com/tw  

People across the country believe the American dream is no longer attainable. Growing inequality, economic immobility, political strife, the national crisis of addiction, undermine the confidence of ordinary American every day.Could it be that the deterioration of the America dream is not the result of economics, but the collapse of civic institutions such as marriage, community groups and religious organizations? Tim Carney joins us to discuss causes and solutions from his book "Alienated America" on this episode of, "Therefore, What"?

Public education remains a major concern for the vast majority of Americans. Some call for massive federal investments, others for strictly local control. Few recognize that what is truly needed is not the destruction of public education, but the transformation of public education. With an eye toward individualization, every kid down every street in America should have the opportunity to learn in a way that unlocks his or her potential. A discussion on the future of education on this episode of, Therefore, What? Christine Cooke is director of education policy at Sutherland Institute. She worked as an English teacher at a public school and a residential treatment center prior to becoming an attorney.  Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox. Sign Up Here

Leadership is lacking in Washington and across the nation. Young people are drifting from the principles and values that have shaped America from its founding. Legacies born of big ideas, civil debate, open dialogue and American optimism seem to be fading from the public square and the collective memory of the country. Ronald Reagan was the happy warrior and the great communicator. He was a president who challenged citizens to believe in themselves as well as their neighbors. Andrew Coffin, director of the Reagan Ranch and vice president of Young America's Foundation joins us to discuss the return of Reaganesque leadership, preservation of a legacy worth keeping and instilling principles in the rising generation on this episode of, Therefore, What? Sign up to get each episode of this weekly podcast delivered to your inbox. Sign Up Here

Anxiety and depression along with the social stigma they carry continue to vex and plague the nation. Many needlessly suffer in silence. America and countries around the world need to engage in a different kind of conversation about mental health. Former CBS & ABC News journalist Jane Clayson Johnson shares her experience and critical insight from her book Silent Souls Weeping: Depression, Sharing Stories, Finding Hope on this episode of, Therefore, what?