Podcasts about Civic engagement

(00:00:00) Cold Open: What is the Eclipse Effect? (00:00:45) Welcome Back and the Non-Conformist Oath (00:03:47) Ella's Five-Year Plan and the 2017 Missouri Eclipse (00:06:00) Building Rochester's Eclipse Task force: 750 Volunteers, No Budget (00:12:00) Co-Chairing the National Eclipse Task Force (00:14:27) The Dreadful Lack of Agency and What To Do About It (00:17:21) Bonding vs. Bridging: The Two Kinds of Social Capital (00:21:09) The Network Graph: Making Invisible Connections Visible (00:28:51) Stories From the National Eclipse Effort (00:39:09) On Failure, Grade, and Raising Kids Outside the System Deborah Ross watched the 2017 solar eclipse from a field in Kimmswick, Missouri and came home convinced of two things: Rochester needed to be ready for 2024, and it was going to be her job to make that happen. What she built with 750 volunteers, no budget, and six years of monthly meetings became both a defining moment for this region and the foundation of a book.In this episode, she breaks down how an eclipse becomes a community organizing tool, what servant leadership actually looks like when you're asking hundreds of people to work for free, and why the principles behind The Eclipse Effect apply to any catalyst, a natural disaster, a federal funding cut, or the Olympics coming to your town. CONNECT The Eclipse Effect → https://theeclipseeffect.comKids Out and About → https://kidsoutandabout.comROC Vox → https://rocvox.comNew episodes every Tuesday.Recorded at ROC Vox Recording & Production in Pittsford, NY. Learn more at https://rocvox.com

Co-hosts Kathy Kruger and Jonah Triebwasser interview Bard College Students Jaella Mohammed and Raahim Waqas about the Civic Engagement Fellowship.

SGLaw200 Youth Forum: Session 2, "Track 5: Youth Voice & Civic Engagement" by Institute of Policy Studies

Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply) Brian Vogt spent 20-plus years strengthening democracy around the world. Then he came home—and started listening. His Democracy Listening Tour of Red America is a qualitative research project with a simple but radical premise: before you can reform anything, you have to understand what people actually believe and why.In this conversation, Brian and Wilk dig into what “democracy” really means to everyday Americans, why that word lands so differently depending on who's hearing it, and what the reform community gets wrong by skipping the listening step altogether.One story stands out: a Trump-voting Iraq veteran and community leader in Kentucky who defined democracy as equality—then shared a workplace experience that made him feel like anything but an equal. It's the kind of story that doesn't make headlines but shapes how millions of people relate to political institutions.If you believe that lasting change requires all voices at the table, this episode is for you. Learn more about and connect with Brian Vogt by getting the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com.  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/ContactThe 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.orgWelcome 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.

This special edition of the Travelers Institute Risk & Resilience podcast is the first episode in a four-part series highlighting Travelers Across America – a unique initiative that reflects Travelers' long-standing commitment to strengthening community resilience.   Host Janice Brunner, Group General Counsel and Head of Civic Engagement and Corporate Affairs at Travelers, was joined by leaders from the Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans and the Louisiana Department of Insurance to discuss Travelers' partnership to deliver critical repairs that strengthen historic homes against hurricanes and flooding. They explored how cross-sector collaboration both protects historic landmarks and strengthens neighborhoods that have weathered generations of storms.   ---  Visit the Citizen Travelers® website: https://www.travelers.com/about-travelers/citizen-travelers.  Subscribe to the Travelers Institute® podcast newsletter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7328774828839100417.  Connect with Janice Brunner on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janice-g-brunner-69338098/. 

I talk with Ramon Perez, Executive Director of the Digital Democracy Project this week. DDP is a nonpartisan nonprofit using secure mobile voting technology to give citizens a real-time voice in legislation. Ramon explains how the platform lets verified, registered voters weigh in on bills being debated in Congress and their state house—and then scores legislators on how closely their votes match what their districts wanted. We dig into how AI, including a RAG-powered chatbot called VoteBot, helps everyday citizens parse thousands of pages of complex legislative text. We also discuss digital security, participatory budgeting, and Ramon's ambitious goal of expanding the platform to all 50 state legislatures by 2027.Keywords: digital democracy, mobile voting, civic tech, legislative transparency, AI in government, Ramon Perez, Digital Democracy Project, VoteBot, participatory budgeting, voter engagement, legislator accountability, PolicyViz podcast, civic engagement, govtechSubscribe to the PolicyViz Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.Become a patron of the PolicyViz Podcast for as little as a buck a monthFollow Ramon Perez and the Digital Democracy Project at digitaldemocracyproject.org and download the Votes (VOATZ) app to participate.Follow me on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, Twitter, Website, YouTubeEmail: jon@policyviz.com

Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply) Michael Lee is a professor of communication and the director of the Civility Initiative at the College of Charleston. He came to civility work through competitive debate—and found that debate, at its best, is deeply connective and dialogic. In this conversation, Michael and Wilk explore what's really going on when people avoid disagreement, and why that silence is often more damaging than conflict. They dig into the nervous system roots of fight, flight, freeze, and fawn—and how those responses show up in everyday conversations, especially online. Michael makes a sharp distinction between healthy stress and distress, arguing that real growth requires exposure to discomfort, not protection from it. One of the episode's most powerful ideas: people confuse conversation with complicity. Michael unpacks why that conflation is so common and what tools—perspective-taking, norm-setting, reciprocity—can help us move past it. And he reminds us that the stranger you're afraid to talk to is more likely to become a friend than an adversary. If you've ever felt like civility is code for “stay quiet,” this conversation is for you.Learn more about and connect with Michael Lee by getting the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com. 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/ContactThe 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.orgWelcome 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.

May 20, 2026 ~ David Dulio, Distinguished Professor, Political Science Department and Director of the Center for Civic Engagement at Oakland University discusses Thomas Massie losing his primary as a Republican who has challenged Trump in the past. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For our final spotlight in the Administrative Professionals Empowerment Series from April on recognizing the ongoing essential work of administrative staff, including secretaries, assistants, and support professionals. We finish this series by highlighting the multiple key liaison roles they play in nurturing community support networks within the workplace, multiple communities, and their immediate families. For our Administrative Professional Empowerment Series, Plan Dulce Hosts Michelle E.  Zuñiga, PhD, AICP (she/her/hers)  and Haydee Urita-Lopez (she/her/hers) interview Flora “Angie” Melendez (she/her/ella), Executive Assistant III, at the City of Los Angeles Planning Department. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ A warning to our listeners, this interview does discuss a personal story involving suicide. If you or someone close to you is facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, help can be reached at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline._ _ _ _ _ _ _  Angie has been the Executive Administrative Assistant to the Director of Planning for the City of Los Angeles Department of City Planning since 2019 and has been serving the City of Los Angeles for almost 37 years.It began in 1989 working with then Councilwoman Gloria Molina, the first Latina elected to the City Council, for two years, followed by 10 years with Councilwoman Rita Walters, the first African-American woman elected to the city council, and almost 12 years with Councilman Ed Reyes, a Planner by trade.She then took the leap and transitioned over to civil service, beginning as an Administrative Clerk with the Department of Recreation and Parks after which she was promoted to Senior Administrative Clerk. In 2016 she was promoted to Secretary with the Los Angeles Police Department and in 2019 promoted to Executive Administrative Assistant to the Department of City Planning. Angie has served in this capacity for almost seven years where every day she continues to grow and learn in her position but also is happy to share what she has learned with those that are currently on their civil service journey.Angie, has been married to her husband, Tony Melendez, retired UPS Driver but forever a Teamster (and Rams fan) for almost 19 years, and together have raised three amazing adults; two sons and a daughter; Josue, Andres and Belen. And now, they help provide support and love to six wonderful grandkids ages 2 months – 8 years old, who keep them super busy and young at heart.Links and ResourcesLA City Planninghttps://planning.lacity.gov/Government Jobshttps://www.governmentjobs.com/ --------------------------------------Plan Dulce is a podcast by members of the ⁠⁠Latinos and Planning Division⁠ of the American Planning Association⁠. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only. Want to recommend our next great guests and stay updated on the latest episodes? We want to hear from you! Follow, rate, and subscribe! Your support and feedback helps us continue to amplify insightful and inspiring stories from our wonderfully culturally and professionally diverse community.This episode was conceived, written, and produced by Haydee Urita-Lopez (she/her/hers), Michelle E.  Zuñiga, PhD, AICP (she/her/hers) and co-produced by Vidal F. Márquez (he/him).Connect:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/plandulcepodcast/ Facebook:⁠https://www.facebook.com/LatinosandPlanning/⁠Youtube:Subscribe to Plan Dulce on Youtube LinkedIn:⁠https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4294535/⁠X/ Twitter:⁠https://twitter.com/latinosplanapa?lang=en⁠

The wave of targeted extortion schemes against local businesses—predominantly targeting South Asian business owners in the Lower Mainland—prompted extensive coordination between municipal police forces, the RCMP, and provincial authorities. Rather than a single, formal, published "government task force report," the operational updates, findings, and ongoing strategies regarding these extortion syndicates are primarily channeled through multi-jurisdictional police task forces and provincial public safety briefings. Here is a breakdown of the key findings, structure, and updates surrounding the BC business extortion task forces:Thousands of people will benefit from B.C.'s $241-million investment in skilled trades training, expanding access to good-paying jobs for people in British Columbia, while ensuring employers have workers to deliver major projects. “Growing B.C.'s economy means making sure British Columbians are first in line for the opportunities created by the billions in investment arriving in our province,” said Premier David Eby. “We are expanding training capacity where it's needed most and helping people get into rewarding trades careers faster, while also building up B.C.'s economy.”Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/policy-and-rights--3339563/support.

This episode of the Amazing Cities and Towns Podcast sponsored by Bearing Advisors, Jim Hunt interviews Donnavan Pepper of the National Strategic Partnership at Cozen O'Connor Public Strategies. ·       A candid conversation about building bridges in local government ·       And, much more 7 Steps to an Amazing City:  Attitude Motivation Attention to Detail Zing Inclusiveness Neighborhood Empowerment Green Awareness   Thanks for listening and look forward to having you join us for the next episode.   Links Mentions During Show:  www.AmazingCities.org ·       www.AmazingCities.org/podcast to be a guest on the podcast   About Donovan Pepper:     Donovan W. Pepper is Principal and Director of National Strategic Partnerships at Cozen O'Connor Public Strategies , where he leads multi-jurisdictional government relations and builds nationwide advocacy coalitions. Prior to this role, he spent nearly 18 years as Senior Director of Government Relations and Civic Engagement at Walgreens, directing legislative and public health protection strategies across all 50 states. His deep public policy background also includes leadership positions with the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, the Illinois Restaurant Association, AT&T, and Amtrak, following an early career as an Illinois House of Representatives staffer. A dedicated civic leader, Mr. Pepper is a trustee of Knox College, a member of the University of Illinois System presidential search committee, and the former Chairman of the Board for The Civic Federation. Recognized by President Barack Obama for national and community service, he holds a master's degree in political studies from the University of Illinois Springfield.  About Your Host, Jim Hunt: Welcome to the "Building Amazing Cities and Towns Podcast" … The podcast for Mayors, Council Members, Managers, Staff and anyone who is interested in building an Amazing City.   Your host is Jim Hunt, the author of "Bottom Line Green, How American Cities are Saving the Planet and Money Too" and his latest book, "The Amazing City - 7 Steps to Creating an Amazing City"   Jim is also the former President of the National League of Cities, 27 year Mayor, Council Member and 2006 Municipal Leader of the Year by American City and County Magazine.   Today, Jim speaks to 1000's of local government officials each year in the US and abroad.   Jim also consults with businesses that are bringing technology and innovation to local government.   Amazing City Resources:   Buy Jim's Popular Books: ·       The Entrepreneurial City: Building Smarter Governments through Entrepreneurial Thinking:   https://www.amazingcities.org/copy-of-the-amazing-city   ·       The Amazing City: 7 Steps to Creating an Amazing City:   https://www.amazingcities.org/product-page/the-amazing-city-7-steps-to-creating-an-amazing-city   ·       Bottom Line Green: How America's Cities and Saving the Planet (And Money Too)  https://www.amazingcities.org/product-page/bottom-line-green-how-america-s-cities-are-saving-the-planet-and-money-too   FREE White Paper: ·       "10 Steps to Revitalize Your Downtown"  www.AmazingCities.org/10-Steps   Hire Jim to Speak at Your Next Event: ·       Tell us about your event and see if dates are available at www.AmazingCities.org/Speaking   Hire Jim to Consult with Your City or Town: ·       Discover more details at https://www.amazingcities.org/consulting   Discuss Your Business Opportunity/Product to Help Amazing Cities: ·       Complete the form at https://www.amazingcities.org/business-development   A Special Thanks to Bearing Advisors for the support of this podcast:  www.BearingAdvisors.Net

As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, a national initiative called faith250 is bringing faith communities together to study the nation's founding documents. In the Lehigh Valley, a cluster of congregations led by four co-conveners is holding a series of gatherings that combine textual study and community building. The conversation with them considers the gap between the founding documents' aspirations and the nation's realities, the complicated relationship between religious faith and democratic governance, and the challenge of genuine inclusivity when diverse communities try to speak together about shared values.Guests: Rabbi Shoshanah Tornberg, Congregation Keneseth IsraelThe Rev. Maria Tjeltveit, Retired Episcopal priestRev. Stephanie Anthony, First Presbyterian Church of AllentownLaura Lawrence, Baháʼí community memberShow Notes:faith250 (https://faith250.org/)Lehigh Valley Cluster - lvfaith250@gmail.comSend us Fan Mail

On this archive episode we weigh the strengths and vulnerabilities of our current election infrastructure. David Levine, a senior fellow at University of Maryland's Center for Democracy and Civic Engagement joins the program to discuss election integrity in the United States and internationally, threats to democracy and ways to improve the election process. (This episode was originally produced in May 2025.)

Today on Uncommon Sense, we're talking about “law enforcement” and why so many people no longer feel like laws are actually being enforced equally or consistently, especially when it comes to powerful and well-connected individuals connected to the Epstein scandal.We discuss the growing public frustration surrounding the unreleased and heavily redacted Epstein files, the lack of visible accountability for elite predators, and why so many Americans feel the justice system has failed women, children, and vulnerable people. We also talk about why local police departments, sheriffs, prosecutors, and public officials should be demanding full transparency and supporting the release of the complete unredacted Epstein files so the public can see the truth plainly.This episode also goes into the broader leadership crisis facing America and much of the world: weak leadership, fear of confrontation, and silence in the face of corruption. We discuss the need for stronger moral leadership, stronger families, stronger communities, and men willing to stand up publicly against evil instead of shrinking back from difficult conversations.If laws are not enforced equally, trust in institutions collapses. If justice is selective, people stop believing justice exists at all.It's time for courage, accountability, truth, and leadership again.--https://www.youversion.com/bible-app

In this episode, Ashley Campbell discusses the flaws within the American government, emphasizing that the structure itself is not to blame but rather the individuals in power. She highlights issues such as unaccounted spending, regulatory burdens, and the need for accountability among government officials. The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding the Constitution and the responsibilities of different branches of government. Campbell encourages listeners to engage civically and educate themselves about the political system to effect change.Takeaways-The American government structure is not the problem; it's the people in charge.-Unaccounted spending and fraud are rampant within government agencies.-Government accountability is crucial for effective governance.-Regulatory burdens have negatively impacted American manufacturing jobs.-The government has committed acts of treason against its citizens.-Every branch of government has a responsibility to defend the Constitution.-Civic engagement and education are essential for a functioning democracy.-Understanding legislative powers is key to holding representatives accountable.-Voter participation is vital to prevent corruption in office.-Educating oneself about government structure can lead to meaningful change.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Context of Government Critique02:20 The Role of People in Government03:17 Government Accountability and Spending Issues08:53 Regulatory Burdens and Economic Impact10:34 Constitutional Responsibilities of Government14:03 Understanding Legislative Powers27:02 The Importance of Civic Engagement and Education keywordsgovernment, accountability, constitution, civic engagement, corruption, American politics, legislative powers, economic impact, regulatory burdens, public spendingWant to purchase a signed copy of mybook?https://buy.stripe.com/7sI8xdg6F2kZgSIfZ6ORRead the reviews on Amazon? https://a.co/d/gwyks9gWant to join my Facebook group that will equip you with the knowledge of the History of the United States, what the Constitution means and how you can preserve thisgreat nation we live in?Join my paid group today! For only $10 a month, you will have access to classes that will help you have the knowledge you need to save your liberties given to you by God.Group Link:https://www.facebook.com/share/RA7FqCx95Lbv5gWv/Group Payment link:https://buy.stripe.com/cN24gX07H4t70TKcMV

Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply) Many Americans now feeling we're too divided to agree on anything. Rich Harwood disagrees — and he has the stories to back it up. In this episode, Rich returns to DTH to talk about the new moral vision he sees emerging across the country: a shared yearning for decency, dignity, and the belief that we can still come together and get things done.Rich and Wilk dig into why politics can't save us — and why that's actually good news. Real change, Rich argues, doesn't start with the right person winning an election. It starts with individuals choosing to show up in their communities, building trust one small action at a time.From Jim Jordan's congressional district in Ohio to the basement of Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma, the stories Rich shares prove that the people most written off are often the ones leading the way. You don't need a big platform or a comprehensive plan. You just need to start.This is a conversation about reclaiming the civic space that the loudest, most divisive voices have been filling by default — and what happens when the rest of us decide to show up.Learn more about and connect with Rich Harwood by getting the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com. 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/ContactThe 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.orgWelcome 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.

In this episode of No Off Season 4 Dads, Dijon picks up where a powerful conversation with Lindsey McCormack left off and takes it somewhere most fatherhood platforms won't go. The episode challenges dads to expand their definition of presence beyond the household and into the community spaces that shape their children's futures. Drawing on research from The Psychology of Citizenship and Civic Engagement and a 2024 study on parental civic modeling, Dijon makes the case that fathers who show up in local government, school board meetings, city council sessions, neighborhood associations — raise kids who grow up believing their voice matters. From practical first steps to a faith-rooted call to responsibility, this episode is a reminder that no off season means no off season in every arena. Your neighborhood needs you in the game.Afterwards, go to www.nooffseason4dads.com for more tips and tools to better our journey in fatherhood. And as always,Listen. Enjoy. Share. Fund. Repeat.References and Resources:The Influence of Parents, Families, and Peers on Civic Engagement | The Psychology of Citizenship and Civic Engagement | Oxford AcademicAssociations between parental civic engagement, negative beliefs toward civic engagement and youths' future civic attitudes and behaviors - PMCInnovative Approaches to Civic Engagement - National League of CitiesHow to Raise A Citizen (And why it's up to you to do it) by Lindsey Cormack

In this episode, UBC's Associate Vice-President, Campus and Community Planning, Michael White, joins Carol and Jeevan to break down the SkyTrain to UBC project—the planned Millennium Line extension to UBC. Michael explains why the Broadway Subway Project is insufficient, how the Arbutus station will already be over capacity on day one, and why completing the line to UBC is the only real solution. He outlines the project's sweeping benefits: thousands of new housing units, major greenhouse gas reductions, and billions in economic opportunity. He also shares what it takes to align governments, nations, and communities around a shared vision—and why your voice matters.Links for this episodeTranscriptSkyTrain to UBC websiteLearn more about the UBCx planAbout Michael WhiteMario Canseco: Three in four Metro Vancouverites want SkyTrain extended to UBC, poll findsOpinion: UBC SkyTrain must be Metro Vancouver's next public transit priorityContact CarolContact JeevanFrom Here ForwardPodium Podcast Company (00:00) - Introduction (01:39) - Meet Michael White (02:02) - What is UBCx, why is it needed, and it's potential benefits (06:50) - Current project status & stakeholder groups (11:12) - The economic case for UBCx (12:33) - Addressing concerns (14:28) - The importance of effective up-front engagement (16:39) - Making planning personal (18:14) - What urban planners really do (19:40) - Work-life sustainability (20:44) - A listener call-to-action (22:05) - Conclusion

Calvary Hill Baptist Church (11am) / Pinkston (5pm) Is the biblical nation of Israel identical to the modern state of Israel? If not, what is the connection between the two? Daniel Houck explains the meaning of the word "Israel" in the Bible, and how it relates to the use of the word today. This sermon lays a groundwork for Christians to evaluate discussions of Israel in current events today. https://bio.link/danielwhouck https://www.calvaryhillbc.org/

This episode reminds us that influence is not measured by numbers but by truth, integrity and responsibility. In a digital world full of noise, the real power is in being informed, being ethical and being faithful with your voice, no matter how small your audience may seem.#CITAMChurchOnline #ChurchEverydayGet in touch with us:http://www.citam.org/churchonline@citam.org(+254) 784 277 277(+254) 728 221 221

Suzette Brooks Masters is a thought leader, political strategist and Senior Fellow at the Democracy Funders Network. She says that for American democracy to thrive, it's not enough to defend the existing system against attack, because the system doesn't work well for most people.  She's been researching ways to invigorate democratic practice, including citizen's assemblies and participatory budgeting – frameworks that give ordinary people a bigger say in government. And she advocates for storytelling that envisions positive, possible futures.  LEARN MORE Suzette Brooks Masters' articles for The Fulcrum Imagining Better Futures for American Democracy report Becoming Futures Ready: How Philanthropy Can Leverage Strategic Foresight For Democracy report This episode was originally published in May 2025.  ABOUT THE SHOW The Making Peace Visible podcast is hosted by Jamil Simon and produced by Andrea Muraskin. Our associate producer is Faith McClure. Learn more at makingpeacevisible.orgSupport our work Connect on social:Instagram @makingpeacevisibleLinkedIn @makingpeacevisibleBluesky @makingpeacevisible.bsky.social We want to learn more about our listeners. Take this 3-minute survey to help us improve the show!

Should citizens have a direct say in major healthcare decisions—and what would that look like in practice? In this timely and engaging episode, Myron Goretzky explores the concept of a National Advisory Referendum on the Health Care Bill, examining how public input could shape one of the most critical issues affecting society today. Drawing from policy discussions and civic engagement principles, Myron discusses the idea of using referendums as a tool to gather public opinion on complex healthcare legislation. He explores the potential benefits—greater transparency, accountability, and democratic participation—alongside the challenges of ensuring informed decision-making on highly technical issues. This episode invites listeners to consider the role of the public in shaping policy. Should healthcare decisions be left solely to lawmakers and experts, or should citizens play a more direct role? How can complex information be communicated effectively to voters? And what impact could such a referendum have on future legislation? Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that dives into democracy, healthcare, and public voice—where policy meets participation, and where the future of healthcare may depend on how engaged the public becomes.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-x-zone-radio-tv-show--1078348/support.Please note that all XZBN radio and/or television shows are Copyright © REL-MAR McConnell Meda Company, Niagara, Ontario, Canada – www.rel-mar.com. For more Episodes of this show and all shows produced, broadcasted and syndicated from REL-MAR McConell Media Company and The 'X' Zone Broadcast Network and the 'X' Zone TV Channell, visit www.xzbn.net. For programming, distribution, and syndication inquiries, email programming@xzbn.net.We are proud to announce the we have launched TWATNews.com, launched in August 2025.TWATNews.com is an independent online news platform dedicated to uncovering the truth about Donald Trump and his ongoing influence in politics, business, and society. Unlike mainstream outlets that often sanitize, soften, or ignore stories that challenge Trump and his allies, TWATNews digs deeper to deliver hard-hitting articles, investigative features, and sharp commentary that mainstream media won't touch.These are stories and articles that you will not read anywhere else.Our mission is simple: to expose corruption, lies, and authoritarian tendencies while giving voice to the perspectives and evidence that are often marginalized or buried by corporate-controlled media

How should Christians view war? This sermon explains and applies the basics of "just war theory": the view that waging war is just if and only if it is for a just cause, as a last resort, and is likely to lead to a greater good.  https://bio.link/danielwhouck https://www.calvaryhillbc.org/

Many of us think growth is about copying what we see, but real becoming begins with knowledge, purpose, and identity, especially in how we lead, think, and make decisions. As our conversation dives into leadership, civic responsibility, and the influence of media, we are challenged to move beyond emotions and misinformation, and instead embrace understanding, intentionality, and truth.This is a call to a generation; to rise above noise, think deeply, and step into a life of purpose, impact, and authenticity.#MediaInCivicEngagement #VoicesVotesValues #Leadership #LeadingYoungPodacst 

Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply) Spike Cohen — 2020 Libertarian VP candidate, founder of You Are The Power — sits down with Wilk to talk about what happens when families are torn apart by a system that never had to answer to anyone. Until now.You Are The Power is a nonprofit that steps in when local government oversteps. They research cases, amplify stories, organize people, and push for real policy change. Their work with the Hernandez family — falsely accused of child abuse, children seized, criminal charges filed — led to family reunification and landmark legislation in Georgia.This is a conversation about civic power, individual responsibility, and what it actually looks like when ordinary people take on government overreach — and win. If you've ever felt helpless against a system that didn't care, this one's for you.Learn more about and connect with Spike Cohen in the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com. 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/ContactThe 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.orgWelcome 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.

In this episode of "Eye on the Triangle," Evie Dallman and Amanda Levinson discuss the arts' place in exciting civic engagement and ways communities can continue restoration within the individual as well as larger bodies of people. We talk radical rest, laborers' rights and artistic action.In our second story, Evie chats with the North Carolina Museum of Art's Head Librarian, Andrew Wang, about North Carolina book culture, zine culture, DIY movements, the NCMA's library as a source for research and media, grassroots efforts in publication and media representation and the End Paper Book Fair's place in these ideas.Finally, we close out with Evie's interview with Kid Lab creators Shannon Newby and Susan Kelly on their initiatives to give kids access to arts education and principles of making with recycled goods. ★ Support this podcast ★

https://bio.link/danielwhouck https://www.calvaryhillbc.org/

The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Executive Vice President, Vice President for Academic Affairs and the Director of the Center for Civic Engagement at Bard College Jonathan Becker, Preceptor in Public Speaking for the Faculty of Arts and Sciences at Harvard University Terry Gipson, a full professor in the History Department at John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY) Allison Kavey, and Associate Professor of Government at Dutchess Community College and since 2023, she has been President of the World Affairs Council of the Mid-Hudson Valley Dr. Karin Riedl.

At a time when trust in institutions is strained and civic participation often feels out of reach, a growing effort is underway to reimagine how Americans engage in public life. The Citizen Service is advancing a national civic education model rooted in pragmatic, no-blame, community-based problem solving—designed to equip people not just to understand democracy, but to actively participate in strengthening it. In this podcast, John Silvanus Wilson, president of The Citizen Service and a former president of Morehouse College, and Rashawn Davis, who serves as a senior advisor to The Citizen Service, discuss their approach and tools to help higher education institutions advance their civic mission while also preparing students with practical leadership skills. Wilson and Davis discuss how this work is uniquely positioned to cultivate the kind of educated, empowered, and engaged citizenry our democracy requires. Opinions expressed in AGB podcasts are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the organizations that employ them or of AGB.

Calvary Hill Baptist Church (11am) / Pinkston (5pm)  Scripture teaches that Christians are "citizens of heaven." Is that compatible with being citizens of the United States of America, or any earthly polity? In this sermon, Daniel Houck introduces a new series on civic engagement for Christians, showing that Christians may be "dual citizens" of the kingdom of heaven and their countries on Earth. As Christians, we are called to be God's ambassadors from the kingdom of heaven: representing his interests as salt and light in our communities, countries, and world.  https://bio.link/danielwhouck https://www.calvaryhillbc.org/

In this episode, I chat with Don Moynihan, professor of public policy at the University of Michigan and author of the widely-read Substack newsletter Can We Still Govern? Don's research focuses on administrative burdens—the learning, compliance, and psychological costs people experience when interacting with government—and how those frictions shape public trust. We talk about the data challenges involved in measuring these experiences, how the shift to digital services changes the picture, and why governments historically have ignored the costs they impose on the people they serve. We also get into Don's own journey as a public communicator: how a rejected op-ed about Joe Manchin and the child tax credit sparked his newsletter, what it took to retrain himself to write for a general audience, and how he thinks about balancing timeliness with depth. If you're a researcher wondering whether public communication is worth the risk—or just curious about what makes government work (or not)—this one is for you.Keywordsadministrative burden, public policy, government services, bureaucracy, policy communication, Substack newsletter, academic writing, public administration, government trust, policy research, data visualization, civic engagement, open government, policy podcastSubscribe to the PolicyViz Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.Become a patron of the PolicyViz Podcast for as little as a buck a monthRead Don's newsletter Can We Still Govern?Follow me on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, Twitter, Website, YouTubeEmail: jon@policyviz.com

Check out the Executive Master of Public Administration (EMPA) program at the Brooks School https://publicpolicy.cornell.edu/masters/mpa/empa/ Policy Advocacy Cornell Certificate Program https://tinyurl.com/22cnm5w3 The foundations of American democracy are facing unprecedented threats, with our social, legal, and political institutions being undermined by their sworn defenders. As challenges mount to voting rights and judicial independence, and political polarization deepens, our civil society stands at a critical crossroads. And yet, through informed advocacy and civic engagement, we can chart a path forward. Join Jared Carter and Thomas O'Toole from the Cornell Brooks School of Public Policy for a timely conversation examining America's political institutions, constitutional framework, and civil society. They'll reflect on the historical context of our current situation, assess today's most pressing issues, and explore how this moment of upheaval presents an opportunity to reshape our legal, political, and cultural landscape. What You'll Learn How to identify and understand current threats to American democratic institutions Key historical lessons that can guide our response to today's constitutional challenges Strategies for effective civic advocacy Why a period of political crisis may present opportunities for democratic renewal Follow eCornell on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and X.

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Barcelona Ballots: A Tale of Civic Unity and Unlikely Allies Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2026-04-04-07-38-19-ca Story Transcript:Ca: El sol brillava suau sobre la ciutat de Barcelona en aquell matí de primavera.En: The sun shone gently over the city of Barcelona on that spring morning.Ca: Al gimnàs d'una escola del barri, convertit en centre de votació, Júlia i Oriol es preparaven per una llarga jornada.En: At the gymnasium of a neighborhood school, converted into a polling station, Júlia and Oriol were preparing for a long day.Ca: Les eleccions regionals portaven una expectativa silenciosa a l'aire, mentre els ciutadans començaven a arribar.En: The regional elections brought a silent expectation to the air as citizens began to arrive.Ca: Júlia era una noia ambiciosa i optimista.En: Júlia was an ambitious and optimistic young woman.Ca: Creia fermament en la importància d'exercir el dret al vot.En: She firmly believed in the importance of exercising the right to vote.Ca: Al seu costat, Oriol estava silenciós, una mica més escèptic.En: Beside her, Oriol was silent, a bit more skeptical.Ca: Havia decidit voluntariar-se motivat per la insistència de la seva família, que sempre havia estat molt activa políticament.En: He had decided to volunteer motivated by the insistence of his family, who had always been very politically active.Ca: Dins el gimnàs, hi havia algunes taules amb urnes i màquines de votació electròniques.En: Inside the gymnasium, there were some tables with ballot boxes and electronic voting machines.Ca: Al matí, el procés començava amb normalitat, però després de la pausa per dinar, la situació es complicava.En: In the morning, the process began normally, but after the lunch break, the situation became complicated.Ca: La màquina principal que registrava els votants es va aturar sobtadament.En: The main machine that registered the voters suddenly stopped.Ca: Júlia es va adonar que els ànims entre la gent es començaven a escalfar.En: Júlia realized that tensions among the people were starting to rise.Ca: Alguns votants, amb opinions polítiques dividides, començaven a discutir.En: Some voters, with divided political opinions, began to argue.Ca: "Sisplau, tothom mantingui la calma," va dir Júlia amb fermesa, intentant organitzar la cua.En: "Please, everyone stay calm," said Júlia firmly, trying to organize the line.Ca: Sabia que era crucial evitar que l'incident escalés.En: She knew it was crucial to prevent the incident from escalating.Ca: Va explicar amb paciència que estaven treballant per resoldre la qüestió tècnica.En: She patiently explained that they were working to resolve the technical issue.Ca: Oriol, al veure això, va dubtar.En: Oriol, seeing this, hesitated.Ca: Podria decidir no fer res, però alguna cosa dins seu el va fer moure.En: He could decide to do nothing, but something inside him prompted him to move.Ca: Va anar cap a Júlia.En: He went over to Júlia.Ca: "Necessites ajuda?En: "Do you need help?"Ca: " va preguntar amb un mig somriure.En: he asked with a half-smile.Ca: Júlia va assentir, agraïda, i junts van començar a gestionar la situació.En: Júlia nodded, grateful, and together they began to manage the situation.Ca: Òptimament, encara que amb urgència, van dirigir els votants cap a altres màquines que s'havien habilitat mentre tractaven de reactivar la principal.En: Optimally, though with urgency, they directed voters to other machines that had been set up while they tried to reactivate the main one.Ca: La seva col·laboració va calmar la multitud i els va permetre tornar a l'ordre.En: Their collaboration calmed the crowd and allowed them to return to order.Ca: Finalment, amb una solució tècnica trobada, la màquina es va engegar de nou.En: Finally, with a technical solution found, the machine turned back on.Ca: La calma tornava al gimnàs, i els votants reprenien el seu curs.En: Calm returned to the gymnasium, and the voters resumed their course.Ca: Oriol va veure com la dedicació de Júlia havia marcat la diferència.En: Oriol saw how Júlia's dedication had made a difference.Ca: Aquell dia, va comprendre el veritable valor de la participació cívica.En: That day, he understood the true value of civic participation.Ca: Quan el dia va arribar al seu terme, amb el gimnàs ja buit, Oriol va mirar Júlia i somrigué amb un nou respecte en els seus ulls.En: When the day came to an end, with the gymnasium already empty, Oriol looked at Júlia and smiled with newfound respect in his eyes.Ca: "Gràcies per fer-me veure el que significa tot això.En: "Thank you for making me see what all this means.Ca: M'has fet obrir els ulls.En: You've opened my eyes."Ca: "Júlia va somriure de tornada, contenta d'haver trobat un nou aliat en la seva creença pel compromís comunitari.En: Júlia smiled back, pleased to have found a new ally in her belief in community involvement.Ca: Així, sota el cel de Barcelona, estaven llestos per afrontar qualsevol altra jornada electoral amb noves esperances i certeses.En: Thus, under the Barcelona sky, they were ready to face any other election day with new hopes and certainties. Vocabulary Words:the gymnasium: el gimnàsthe neighborhood: el barrithe polling station: el centre de votacióthe regional elections: les eleccions regionalsthe ambition: l'ambicióthe optimism: l'optimismethe skepticism: l'escepticismeto volunteer: voluntariar-sethe insistence: la insistènciapolitically active: activa políticamentthe ballot boxes: les urnesthe voting machines: les màquines de votacióthe lunch break: la pausa per dinarthe technical issue: la qüestió tècnicathe tension: la tensióto escalate: escalarthe hesitation: la dubitacióto reactivate: reactivarthe urgency: la urgènciathe collaboration: la col·laboracióto resume: reprendrecivic participation: la participació cívicato manage: gestionarto prompt: incitarthe dedication: la dedicacióthe respect: el respectethe community involvement: el compromís comunitarithe certainty: la certesato face: afrontarthe ally: l'aliat

Fluent Fiction - Norwegian: Igniting Democracy: A School Trip to the Heart of Voting Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/no/episode/2026-04-04-22-34-01-no Story Transcript:No: Solen skinte varmt gjennom de store vinduene i folkehallen, hvor stemmelokalets summing var som en energisk melodi.En: The sun shone warmly through the large windows of the community hall, where the hum of the polling station was like an energetic melody.No: Bordene var fulle av stemmesedler og brosjyrer, klare for de mange som strømmet inn for å bruke sin stemme i demokratiets navn.En: The tables were full of ballots and brochures, ready for the many who streamed in to cast their votes in the name of democracy.No: Midt i denne livlige settingen sto Sigrid, en engasjert lærer med en gruppe forventningsfulle elever.En: In the midst of this lively setting stood Sigrid, an enthusiastic teacher with a group of eager students.No: Blant dem var tolvåringen Kjell, alltid nysgjerrig, alltid med et glimt av undring i øynene.En: Among them was twelve-year-old Kjell, always curious, always with a spark of wonder in his eyes.No: Sigrid visste at dette var en gyllen mulighet til å lære elevene om viktigheten av å delta i demokratiet.En: Sigrid knew that this was a golden opportunity to teach the students about the importance of participating in democracy.No: Hun ønsket å tenne en gnist hos dem for civine verv og ansvar.En: She wished to ignite a spark in them for civic engagement and responsibility.No: Kjell, på sin side, var spent.En: Kjell, for his part, was excited.No: Han hadde bestemt seg for å spørre et spørsmål som skulle imponere både læreren og klassekameratene.En: He had decided to ask a question that would impress both the teacher and his classmates.No: Mens stemmelokalets virvar truet med å dra kjell og de andre elevene bort fra lærdom, slet Sigrid med å holde dem fokusert.En: While the bustling activity of the polling station threatened to draw Kjell and the other students away from learning, Sigrid struggled to keep them focused.No: Hun talte med en stemme fylt av både autoritet og omsorg: “La oss holde sammen.En: She spoke with a voice filled with both authority and care: “Let us stick together.No: Det vi ser her, er viktig.En: What we see here is important.No: Tenk på alle som har kjempet for retten til å stemme.En: Think of all those who have fought for the right to vote.No: Det er ikke noe vi skal ta for gitt.”En: It is not something we should take for granted.”No: Men noen av elevene slet likevel.En: But some of the students still struggled.No: Dunkelyder fra åpne og lukkede dører, summingen av stemmer, alt dette var som et hav av distraksjoner.En: The thumping sounds from opening and closing doors, the buzzing of voices, all of this was like a sea of distractions.No: Kjell følte også hvordan oppmerksomheten hans ble trukket i flere retninger.En: Kjell also felt how his attention was being pulled in several directions.No: Sigrid fikk en idé.En: Sigrid got an idea.No: “Vi skal ha en skikkelig avstemning!” smilte hun lurt.En: “We shall have a real election!” she smiled slyly.No: “Vi skal lage vår egen valg.En: “We will create our own election.No: Det vil gi dere en følelse av hvordan prosessen fungerer.”En: This will give you a sense of how the process works.”No: Elevene samlet seg rundt Sigrid, som delte ut papirer de skulle bruke som stemmesedler.En: The students gathered around Sigrid, who handed out papers they were to use as ballots.No: Det tok ikke lang tid før latter og små diskusjoner fylte luften.En: It didn't take long before laughter and small discussions filled the air.No: Kjell kjente en sitring av spenning.En: Kjell felt a tingle of excitement.No: Dette hadde vekket noe i ham.En: This had awakened something in him.No: Da valget deres nærmet seg slutten, så han sin sjanse.En: As their election drew to a close, he saw his chance.No: “Sigrid,” startet han, stemmen hans klar og tydelig, “hvorfor tror du noen velger å ikke stemme, selv når det er så viktig?”En: “Sigrid,” he started, his voice clear and loud, “why do you think some people choose not to vote, even when it's so important?”No: Spørsmålet hans fikk kaoset til stille litt.En: His question quieted the chaos a little.No: Sigrid smilte stolt til Kjell.En: Sigrid smiled proudly at Kjell.No: “Det er et utmerket spørsmål, Kjell.En: “That's an excellent question, Kjell.No: Noen ganger kan det være fordi folk føler at deres stemme ikke teller, eller kanskje de ikke har tillit til at deres valg vil gjøre en forskjell.En: Sometimes it can be because people feel that their vote doesn't count, or maybe they don't trust that their choice will make a difference.No: Det er derfor det er så viktig å snakke om dette, å gjøre folk klar over hvor mektig hver stemme egentlig er.”En: That's why it's so important to talk about this, to make people aware of how powerful each vote really is.”No: En heftig diskusjon startet blant elevene, og Sigrid ledet dem gjennom de mange aspektene av valgprosessen, fra betydningen av valgkampanjer til utfordringene ved lav valgdeltakelse.En: A heated discussion began among the students, and Sigrid guided them through the many aspects of the election process, from the significance of election campaigns to the challenges of low voter turnout.No: Når besøket deres ved stemmelokalet nærmet seg slutten, virket elevene mer engasjerte enn noen gang.En: As their visit to the polling station neared its end, the students seemed more engaged than ever.No: De hadde lært ting de aldri ville glemt.En: They had learned things they would never forget.No: Kjell kjente en nyvunnet tillit til å stille spørsmål og dele tankene sine, noe som varmet læreren hans om hjertet.En: Kjell felt a newfound confidence to ask questions and share his thoughts, something that warmed his teacher's heart.No: Sigrid følte at hun hadde gjennomført noe viktig.En: Sigrid felt that she had accomplished something important.No: På veien tilbake til skolen, mens solens stråler fortsatt omfavnet dem, visste hun at dagen hadde vært en suksess.En: On the way back to school, while the sun's rays still embraced them, she knew the day had been a success.No: Noen av hennes elever kunne en dag stå ved de samme bordene, klare til å bringe endring med sin egen stemme i hånden.En: Some of her students might one day stand at the same tables, ready to bring about change with their own vote in hand.No: Dette var begynnelsen på noe større.En: This was the beginning of something greater. Vocabulary Words:shone: skintehum: summingenergetic: energiskstreamed: strømmetlively: livligeenthusiastic: engasjerteager: forventningsfullespark: glimtwonder: undringignite: tennecivic: civineengagement: vervresponsibility: ansvarbustling: virvarauthority: autoritetstruggled: sletgranted: gittdistractions: distraksjonerslyly: lurtballots: stemmesedlertingle: sitringawakened: vekketchaos: kaostrust: tillitheated: heftigvoter turnout: valgdeltakelseengaged: engasjerteconfidence: tillitguided: ledetsignificance: betydningen

Fluent Fiction - Spanish: Power Outage Politics: Luz's Stand for Integrity Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/es/episode/2026-04-04-07-38-18-es Story Transcript:Es: La mañana en el centro comunitario era cálida, con los rayos del sol filtrándose por las ventanas.En: The morning at the community center was warm, with the rays of the sun filtering through the windows.Es: El lugar estaba lleno de energía.En: The place was full of energy.Es: Luz estaba emocionada.En: Luz was excited.Es: Era su primer día como voluntaria en las elecciones locales del consejo de la ciudad.En: It was her first day as a volunteer in the local city council elections.Es: Para ella, ayudar en el centro de votación era más que un deber, era su forma de contribuir al cambio positivo en la comunidad.En: For her, helping at the polling station was more than just a duty; it was her way of contributing to positive change in the community.Es: Luz llevaba una camiseta blanca que decía "VOTAR ES IMPORTANTE".En: Luz wore a white t-shirt that said "VOTAR ES IMPORTANTE."Es: Miraba con admiración cómo los votantes, uno tras otro, llenaban las cabinas de votación.En: She watched with admiration as the voters, one by one, filled the voting booths.Es: A su lado estaba Marcos, un voluntario con más experiencia.En: Next to her was Marcos, a more experienced volunteer.Es: Aunque había pasado años ayudando en las elecciones, tenía una visión más cínica.En: Although he had spent years helping in elections, he had a more cynical view.Es: "Luz, no te decepciones si no viene mucha gente", le dijo.En: "Luz, don't be disappointed if not many people show up," he said to her.Es: Pero Luz no perdió su entusiasmo.En: But Luz didn't lose her enthusiasm.Es: El centro comunitario estaba decorado con carteles informativos y filas de cabinas de votación.En: The community center was decorated with informational posters and rows of voting booths.Es: Había un ambiente de importancia en el aire.En: There was an air of importance in the atmosphere.Es: De repente, las luces empezaron a parpadear y, en cuestión de segundos, todo se quedó oscuro.En: Suddenly, the lights started to flicker, and in a matter of seconds, everything went dark.Es: Un murmullo de preocupación llenó la sala.En: A murmur of concern filled the room.Es: "Qué mala suerte", comentó Marcos.En: "What bad luck," commented Marcos.Es: Sin dudar, Luz tomó la iniciativa.En: Without hesitation, Luz took the initiative.Es: "Podemos usar linternas de nuestros celulares", sugirió con determinación.En: "We can use flashlights from our cell phones," she suggested with determination.Es: Su voz era firme.En: Her voice was firm.Es: Algunos de los voluntarios comenzaron a seguir sus instrucciones para iluminar las cabinas.En: Some of the volunteers began to follow her instructions to illuminate the booths.Es: El murmullo de preocupación se convirtió en acción colaborativa.En: The murmur of concern turned into collaborative action.Es: Mientras tanto, Esteban, un conocido líder comunitario, caminaba por el lugar con una sonrisa en los labios.En: Meanwhile, Esteban, a well-known community leader, walked through the place with a smile on his lips.Es: Detrás de su amable fachada, tenía un propósito oculto.En: Behind his friendly facade, he had a hidden agenda.Es: Quería que un candidato en particular ganara, y el apagón le parecía una oportunidad perfecta para influir a su favor.En: He wanted a particular candidate to win, and the blackout seemed like a perfect opportunity to influence in his favor.Es: Sutilmente intentaba convencer a los votantes que esperaban, susurrándoles sobre el "mejor camino para la comunidad".En: Subtly, he tried to persuade the waiting voters, whispering to them about the "best path for the community."Es: Luz notó lo que estaba haciendo.En: Luz noticed what he was doing.Es: Decidida a proteger la integridad del proceso, se acercó a Esteban.En: Determined to protect the integrity of the process, she approached Esteban.Es: "Estamos aquí para asegurar que el proceso sea justo para todos", le dijo con valentía.En: "We are here to ensure that the process is fair for everyone," she told him courageously.Es: Esteban sonrió, pero Luz no se dejó intimidar.En: Esteban smiled, but Luz wasn't intimidated.Es: "No podemos permitir influencias, debemos ser neutrales", agregó, desafiando el poder de Esteban.En: "We cannot allow influences; we must remain neutral," she added, challenging the power of Esteban.Es: La discusión entre ellos se hizo notoria.En: The discussion between them became noticeable.Es: Sin embargo, Luz no se rindió.En: However, Luz did not give up.Es: Apeló a la honestidad y la responsabilidad, y poco a poco los otros voluntarios comenzaron a apoyar su postura.En: She appealed to honesty and responsibility, and little by little, the other volunteers began to support her stance.Es: "Debemos asegurar que todos voten libremente", dijo Marcos, al final, apoyando a Luz.En: "We must ensure that everyone votes freely," said Marcos, in the end, supporting Luz.Es: Gracias al liderazgo de Luz, el centro de votación siguió operando eficientemente a pesar del apagón.En: Thanks to the leadership of Luz, the polling center continued operating efficiently despite the blackout.Es: Los votantes, viendo el compromiso de los voluntarios, se sintieron inspirados.En: The voters, seeing the volunteers' commitment, felt inspired.Es: Al final del día, el número de votantes superó todas las expectativas.En: At the end of the day, the number of voters exceeded all expectations.Es: Cuando las luces finalmente volvieron, Luz respiró aliviada.En: When the lights finally came back on, Luz breathed a sigh of relief.Es: Había aprendido que el cambio significativo no solo requería pasión, sino también enfrentarse a obstáculos inesperados con valentía y determinación.En: She had learned that meaningful change not only required passion but also facing unexpected obstacles with courage and determination.Es: Luz, ahora más confiada y astuta, sabía que su trabajo apenas comenzaba.En: Luz, now more confident and astute, knew that her work was just beginning.Es: Sin embargo, el éxito de ese día impulsó su fe en el proceso democrático y la importancia de cada voto.En: However, the success of that day boosted her faith in the democratic process and the importance of every vote. Vocabulary Words:the community center: el centro comunitariothe rays: los rayosthe window: la ventanathe duty: el deberthe voting booth: la cabina de votaciónthe poster: el cartelthe row: la filathe blackout: el apagónthe murmur: el murmullothe initiative: la iniciativathe flashlight: la linternathe cell phone: el celularthe atmosphere: el ambientethe leader: el líderthe agenda: la agendathe path: el caminothe integrity: la integridadthe facade: la fachadathe obstacle: el obstáculothe courage: la valentíathe responsibility: la responsabilidadthe expectation: la expectativathe determination: la determinaciónthe cynicism: el cinismothe admiration: la admiraciónthe fairness: la justiciathe neutrality: la neutralidadthe commitment: el compromisothe faith: la fethe change: el cambio

Send us Fan MailJason J. Galui is the former Director for Veterans and Military Families at the George W. Bush Institute and the Director, Center for Civic Participation, Endicott College. Throughout a unique military career, Galui led soldiers in combat, taught economics to West Point cadets, advised senior military leaders in the Pentagon, and served in both the Obama and Trump White Houses. As Deputy Executive Secretary of the National Security Council and Chief of Staff to the National Security Advisor, Galui served as a key point of national security continuity during the 2017 Presidential Transition.   -Quick Episode Summary:Leadership, transition, overcoming fear, civic duty, and making service matter.-SEO Description:Army veteran Jason Galui discusses leadership, service, and civic duty on Passing The Torch, sharing insights from his military and public service career.-

Joseph Visconti is the Founder and CEO of Delilah, an app which allows citizens and policy professionals to engage with legislation in real time. Delilah uses AI to clarify the language in bills, and helps foster discussion and civic engagement. In this episode, Blake and Joseph discuss civic engagement, AI, surfing, the Grateful Dead, competitive distance running, and much more.Produced by Level Up Digital Media http://www.levelup.media/​​and Charlie Bravo Pictures https://www.charliebravopictures.com/Participants: Blake Dowling, CEO, Aegis Biz TechJoseph Visconti, Founder / CEO, DelilahWEBSITE - https://www.aegisbiztech.com​​ FACEBOOK - https://facebook.com/aegisbiztech​​INSTAGRAM - https://instagram.com/aegisbiztech​​TWITTER - https://twitter.com/aegissales​​

Katy Tyndell is among Democrats hoping for the chance to unseat Republican U.S. Rep. Ron Estes, who has held the 4th District since 2017. She talks about her background as an attorney in Washington, D.C., her work with Leading Kansas, a civic engagement nonprofit she cofounded last year, and her views on various issues facing Congress.

The latest study conducted for the Electoral Commission by the Human Sciences Research Council points to a troubling decline in South Africans’ belief in democracy, with the “demand for democracy” falling from 65% in the early 2000s to just 26% today, driven by growing frustration over corruption, poor service delivery, and a widening gap between political promises and delivery. Concerns are also being raised about declining trust in institutions such as the Electoral Commission of South Africa, alongside alarmingly low voter registration figures and fears of even lower turnout in upcoming elections. Lawson Naidoo, Executive Secretary of the Council for the Advancement of the South African Constitution, speaks to John Maytham about what this means for the future of South Africa’s democratic system and the risks of governments being elected by an ever-smaller share of the population. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

My heart is holey. Can you fill it, or do I need god?Sources:Religion's Relationship to Happiness, Civic Engagement and Health Around the World: https://tinyurl.com/228hjt4jWhy are religious people happy? The effect of the social norm of religiosity across countries: https://tinyurl.com/ylrlnklsThe Psychology of Indoctrination: How Coercive Cults Exploit Vulnerability and Foster Radical Beliefs: https://tinyurl.com/2dzcup7aFormer Jehovah's Witness admits: We targeted grief-stricken as 'ripe fruit': https://tinyurl.com/28kuhqnnAll my various links can be found here:http://links.vicedrhino.comThis content is CAN credentialed, which means you can report instances of harassment, abuse, or other harm on their hotline at (617) 249-4255, or on their website at creatoraccountabilitynetwork.orgBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/viced-rhino-the-podcast--4623273/support.

After seven years working in traditional, formal "bridge-building" spaces, K Scarry realized that the people who most needed to connect were the ones least likely to attend a scheduled "dialogue event." Her solution? Move the conversation to where people already go naturally.In this episode, K Scarry joins David to discuss her journey from civic engagement professional to neighborhood bar owner. We explore how "Third Spaces" serve as essential training grounds for civic grace, the "musculature" of empathy, and the challenge of maintaining your values while staying open to those you disagree with.Text me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, DavidSupport the showShow Notes:https://outrageoverload.net/ Contact me, David Beckemeyer by email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload. Check out our Subtstack https://outrageoverload.substack.comHOTLINE: 925-552-7885Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episodeIf you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That's the best way to support it.Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverloadAlso check out our companion podcasts, This Week in Outrage and Outrage Science Bites.Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.Outrage Overload, a Conners Institute podcast, ...

What is the sin in Sinners? — and then four of the most brilliant theologians working today spent an hour doing what great theologians do: they cracked the whole thing open. Set in 1932 Mississippi and layered with blues, hoodoo, vampires, and Black survival, Ryan Coogler's film turns out to be a theological event, and this conversation treats it like one. Adam Clark names white supremacy as the film's central sin — parasitic, predatory, embodied in white vampires who can only survive by consuming Black vitality. Kelly Brown Douglas traces the deep dialectic between the blues and the Black church, and how the juke joint functions as a kind of invisible institution keeping Black faith alive from the underside. Juan Floyd-Thomas goes deep on conjure, Papa Legba, and why Sammy at the crossroads isn't just a blues musician but a gateway between the living and the dead. And Stacey Floyd-Thomas brings the womanist lens that names what the film itself only partially names: the women are the most spiritually powerful figures in the story, and they pay the highest price. By the end, someone looks around the room and says what a lot of us were thinking — Theology Beer Camp is a hush harbor. This is one of the most popular sessions from camp this year, and after you listen, you'll understand why. Join 600+ Listeners, 30 theologians, & 30 God-Pods at Theology Beer Camp 2026 this October 8-10 in Kansas City! Panel Members Kelly Brown Douglas is Visiting Professor of Theology at Harvard Divinity School and Canon Theologian at Washington National Cathedral. Juan Floyd-Thomas is Associate Professor of African American Religious History at Vanderbilt Divinity School, where he teaches Black religion, race, religion, and film. Stacey Floyd-Thomas is the Carpenter Professor of Ethics and Society and Chair of African American Studies at Vanderbilt Divinity School. Adam Clark is Professor of Theology and Director of Civic Engagement at Xavier University. Will Rose is the co-host of Systematic Geekology, a podcast exploring theology and pop culture for people who geek out on the deeper things. UPCOMING ONLINE CLASS - Theology for Troublemakers: Christian Social Ethics from the Margins⁠ The injustices we face are immense — but they are not unique. Previous generations confronted the same powers with theological conviction and strategic brilliance. The question is whether we'll learn from them. This 6-week online course, led by Dr. Gary Dorrien and Dr. Aaron Stauffer, recovers the radical tradition of Christian social ethics — from Reverdy Ransom and Reinhold Niebuhr to James Cone and the Welfare Rights Movement — and asks what faithfulness demands of us right now. Weekly lectures, live Q&A conversations, guest lecturers, and an online community are included.

Send us Fan MailIn this compelling episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we welcome Chris Rivers, a former US Army officer and combat veteran whose journey spans military leadership, US diplomacy, and corporate strategy. Chris shares his insights from serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, his education at West Point and Georgetown, and his experience running for state office, where he knocked on an impressive 9,000 doors. Through his book, *You Shouldn't Have to Kill to Get Ahead*, Chris delves into the harsh realities of the American dream and the systemic issues that hinder true meritocracy. He discusses the disconnect between hard work and economic mobility, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and rebuilding trust in our institutions. Tune in to learn how we can all be part of the change, the significance of belonging in leadership, and practical steps to reconnect with our communities for a brighter future. Discover how Chris's experiences can inspire you to take action and make a difference in your own life and the lives of others.Want to be a guest on Living the Dream with Curveball? Send Curtis Jackson a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1628631536976x919760049303001600Support the showwww.chrisrivers.comSupport the show

The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Executive Vice President, Vice President for Academic Affairs and the Director of the Center for Civic Engagement at Bard College Jonathan Becker, Former EPA Regional Administrator, President of Beyond Plastics, professor at Bennington College and author of the new book "The Problem with Plastic" Judith Enck, Semi-retired, Editor at large/columnist/editorial writer, Times Union Jay Jochnowitz, and Professor in the History Department at John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY) Allison Kavey.

Friday, March 6th, 2026 Today, Fugelsang Friday and Allison catches up with Adam Klasfeld. Thank You, IQBAR Text DAILYBEANS to 64000 to get 20% off all IQBAR products, plus FREE shipping. Message and data rates may apply.  Guest: John FugelsangTell Me Everything|John Fugelsang, The John Fugelsang Podcast, John Fugelsang|Substack, @johnfugelsang|Bluesky, @JohnFugelsang|TwitterSeparation of Church and Hate by John Fugelsang - OUT NOW! Guest: Adam KlasfeldAll Rise News@allrisenews|Bluesky, @klasfeldreports.com|BlueSky, @KlasfeldReports|Twitter, @senecaprojectus - InstagramTalarico wins; bitter GOP runoffs ahead — Election takeaways with Simon Rosenberg | All Rise News   Come out and see Dana March 11, Wednesday night at Zany's in Nashville, TennesseeDana is on Patreon! At Dana's DugoutGood Trouble →Public Comment Period Open: White House Ballroom Proposal →Standwithminnesota.com →Tell Congress Ice out Now | Indivisible →Defund ICE | 5Calls →Congress: Divest From ICE and CBP | ACLU →ICE List  →iceout.org →2026 Trans Girl Scouts To Order Cookies From! | Erin in the Morning   Good News →Share your Good News & Good Trouble - The Daily Beans Subscribe to the MSW YouTube Channel - MSW Media - YouTube Our Donation Links Pathways to Citizenship link to MATCH Allison's Donationhttps://crm.bloomerang.co/HostedDonation?ApiKey=pub_86ff5236-dd26-11ec-b5ee-066e3d38bc77&WidgetId=6388736 Allison is donating $20K to It Gets Better and inviting you to help match her donations. Your support makes this work possible, Daily Beans fam. Donate to It Gets Better / The Daily Beans Fundraiser Join Dana and The Daily Beans with a MATCHED Donation http://onecau.se/_ekes71 More Donation LinksNational Security Counselors - Donate

Synopsis:  Members of PNLL are experimenting with new ways of doing politics and economics in communities across the US, focusing on local solutions and shared resources. This show is made possible by you! To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate Description: People across the country are resisting authoritarianism in creative and powerful ways, and this is just the start. The folks at The People's Network for Land & Liberation (PNLL) say the forces that got us here are bigger than one bad leader; entire systems must be taken down. Building a brighter future requires a vision of economic and social justice — and lots of practice. Today on Laura Flanders & Friends, we look at some of those practical experiments and paths for radical change, and discuss why they're just as important as resistance. The members of PNLL, a multiracial, multiethnic consortium of six community-based organizations, are doing politics and economics differently in real places across the U.S. right now. Joining us are Edget Betru, an attorney, activist and Coordinator of the People's Network for Land & Liberation; David Cobb, PNLL staff person and Co-coordinator of the U.S. Solidarity Economy Network; and Blair Evans, Founder and Executive Director of Incite Focus, a production and training lab based in Idlewild, Michigan. Find out how to build for the future — even in the toughest circumstances. All that, plus a commentary from Laura on William Morris's News From Nowhere. “We've been colonized in our minds . . . Involving people in day-to-day produce, meeting their needs through a different way, through thinking, Hey, who in my neighborhood knows how to fix this? . . . It's really that shift in consciousness that needs to happen that's going to allow for this new economy to emerge.” - Edget Betru “My mama and my mamaw and my papa who raised me taught me a lesson as a little boy, and that is, there's enough to go around as long as we share. That made sense to me when I was five years old. It makes sense to me now when I'm 63 years old. There's enough to go around as long as we share. It's just as simple as that.” - David Cobb “We can make things that make things, we can design and build our own equipment that can then use locally sourced materials, hyper localizing the supply chain . . . We can stop feeding the monster that's consuming us and actually disconnect from that process and use what we have.” - Blair Evans Guests: • Edget Betru: Coordinator, People's Network for Land & Liberation; Board Member, Community Movement Builders • David Cobb: Staff, People's Network for Land & Liberation; Manager, Butterfly Impact Fund; Co-Coordinator, U.S. Solidarity Economy Network • Blair Evans: Coalition Member, People's Network for Land & Liberation; Founder & Executive Director, Incite Focus; Designer & Trainer, Fab Lab Watch on YouTube this episode that includes video clips referenced in this episode from Third World Newsreel; PBS World Channel 11:30am ET Sundays and on over 300 public stations across the country (check your listings, or search here via zipcode). Listen: Episode airing on community radio (check here to see if your station airs the show) & available as a podcast March 4, 2026. Full Conversation Release: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation.  Music Credit:  'Thrum of Soil' by Bluedot Sessions, 'Steppin' by Podington Bear, and original sound design by Jeannie Hopper Support Laura Flanders and Friends by becoming a member at https://www.patreon.com/c/lauraflandersandfriends   RESOURCES:   Full Episode Notes are located HERE. *Recommended book: “Beautiful Solutions: A Toolbox for Liberation”, Learn More Here* (*Bookshop is an online bookstore with a mission to financially support local, independent bookstores. The LF Show is an affiliate of bookshop.org and will receive a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.)   Related Laura Flanders Show Episodes: •  Jackson Rising: Creating the Mondragon of the South: Watch •  Resisting Trump & Authoritarianism: The “Beautiful Solutions” Toolbox:  Watch / Listen •  Community Wealth Building: An Economic Reset: Watch / Listen:  Full Uncut Conversation and Episode Cut Related Articles and Resources: •  Community Movement Builders' Community Sea Moss Cooperative •  Tale of the Tape:  An Expert Weighs In on the ‘Cop City' Bodycam Footage, by Madeline Thigpen, February 15, 2023, Capital B • Cooperation Jackson, The Build and Fight Educational Series •  The Butterfly Effect Fund •  Cooperation Vermont, Seeding the Alternatives for the Future •  Cooperation Vermont Buys Former Rainbow Sweets Building, by Paul Fixx, February 4, 2025, The Hardwick Gazette • Incite Focus, where ideas and imagination meet inspiration and innovation •  Wellspring Cooperative, building a just and sustainable economy, one co-op at a time •  U.S. Solidarity Economy Network (US SEN) Laura Flanders and Friends Crew: Laura Flanders-Executive Producer, Writer; Sabrina Artel-Supervising Producer; Jeremiah Cothren-Senior Producer; Veronica Delgado-Video Editor, Janet Hernandez-Communications Director; Jeannie Hopper-Audio Director, Podcast & Radio Producer, Audio Editor, Sound Design, Narrator; Sarah Miller-Development Director, Nat Needham-Editor, Graphic Design emeritus; David Neuman-Senior Video Editor, and Rory O'Conner-Senior Consulting Producer. FOLLOW Laura Flanders and FriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraflandersandfriends/Blueky: https://bsky.app/profile/lfandfriends.bsky.socialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraFlandersAndFriends/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lauraflandersandfriendsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFLRxVeYcB1H7DbuYZQG-lgLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lauraflandersandfriendsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/lauraflandersandfriendsACCESSIBILITY - The broadcast edition of this episode is available with closed captioned by clicking here for our YouTube Channel

Prince Hall believed in the American Revolution so deeply that he refused to let it fail. While Boston echoed with talk of liberty, he forced the new nation to confront its contradiction: slavery. This episode tells the story of Prince Hall, the Black patriot who used lawful civic action, Enlightenment philosophy, and institutional leadership to help end slavery in Massachusetts in 1783, years before the U.S. Constitution was ratified. His strategy was not chaos or rejection of the system. It was engagement, petition, and moral accountability. At a time when many would have turned away from the American experiment, Prince Hall invested in it and demanded it live up to its founding ideals. What You'll Learn How Prince Hall used the language of natural rights to challenge slavery in Massachusetts Why Black participation in the American Revolution created political leverage The role of the 1777 petition and the Massachusetts Constitution in ending slavery in 1783 How John Adams' "all men are born free and equal" became legally enforceable Why civic virtue, lawful engagement, and institutional pressure define true self-government Prince Hall did not burn down the American system. He held it accountable. His life demonstrates how self-government works when citizens understand both their rights and their responsibilities. For anyone who cares about the American founding, abolition, constitutional principles, and the meaning of liberty, this is a story that cannot be ignored.

The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs at Bard College, Director for the Center for Civic Engagement and Professor of Political Studies Jonathan Becker; public policy and communications expert Theresa Bourgeois; Dean of the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity at the University at Albany Robert Griffin, and Professor of Theatre at Siena University Mahmood Karimi Hakak.