In this enlightening episode of The Optimistic American, we delve into a profound discussion on life's purpose, personal growth, and spiritual guidance with our distinguished guest, and Jewish Scholar Rabbi Allouche. Our conversation also touches upon the resilience of the Jewish community in the face of historical and ongoing antisemitism. Navigating the Complexities with Historical Wisdom: Rabbi Allouche offers his profound insights into navigating life's emotional turmoil, a journey deeply re...
Jan 03, 2024•1 hr 8 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American, host Paul Johnson is joined by special guests Governor Doug Ducey and Professor Henry Thompson. The conversation discusses important issues such as debates, income inequality, and international relations. Throughout the video, clips are played to highlight specific moments and perspectives from the fourth Republican Debate. Join us as they explore and analyze key subjects that shape and impact society, while promoting an optimistic and informed America...
Dec 31, 2023•1 hr 10 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American, Paul Johnson speaks with the General Counsel and founder of Stand With Us, Martin Jannol. We navigate through the complexities of the Israeli situation, bringing clarity to the most convoluted issues, striving to reinforce communal understanding amidst a deeply divided America. Shedding Light on Israel: We delve into the many facets of the Israel debate, dispelling myths about it being a colonial nation or an apartheid state. Through this informed dial...
Dec 27, 2023•1 hr 23 min
In this episode of the Optimistic American, our distinguished guests, Governor Doug Ducey and Professor Henry Thompson, discuss transformative change. This conversation serves as a perfect example of the intersection where informed, patriotic discussions meet the optimism that defines our spirit. Unleashing the Potential of AI: We shed light on the intersection of technology and governance, specifically examining the new executive order on AI. The discussion revolves around the potential pitfall...
Dec 23, 2023•1 hr 21 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American, we open the gateway to a dynamic conversation about the future of the U.S. political landscape, with our special guest Dustin Wahl exemplifying the very spirit of American heroism and advocacy. Heroic Advocacy: Dustin Wahl's journey exemplifies patriotism and dedication. He has gone from advocating for accountability at Liberty University to founding the "Fix Our House" initiative, demonstrating the power of an individual actively engaging in the democ...
Dec 20, 2023•50 min
Join us this week with Catherine Raney-Norman, a former speed skater and Olympian. Catherine shares her incredible journey as she became an Olympian and her experiences on the world stage. Additionally, she discusses the importance of unity, equality in sports, and America's representation in the international sports community. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation! Topics covered in this episode: Becoming an Olympian: Discover Catherine's path to becoming a speed skater, her early aspir...
Dec 13, 2023•40 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American, we delve into the high-stakes realms of public relations and media during crisis situations. Our host, Paul Johnson, draws insights from the infamous Elizabeth Smart kidnapping case, examining the critical role of PR in navigating such crises. In this episode, we tackle the following areas: Elizabeth Smart Case: We begin with an examination of the Elizabeth Smart case, revealing the challenges and pitfalls of handling a high-profile crisis. We discuss ...
Dec 06, 2023•55 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American, we delve into how the media shapes our thoughts, the optimism of American youth, and the way forward for healing our fragmented nation. Our host, Paul Johnson, converses with acclaimed motivational speaker Dan Clark, who embodies profound wisdom from his global speaking experiences and written works. Here's the major themes addressed: Media Influence and Mind Control: We delve into the profound effects of media on our perspectives, differentiating fact...
Nov 29, 2023•1 hr 39 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American, we examine global political systems and the role of enterprise in shaping nations. Join us as we study how economies navigate challenges and use democratic values to foster growth. This episode discusses a variety of topics: Diverse Thoughts in Schools with Henry Thompson: Thompson and we look at why it's essential for schools to welcome all kinds of ideas. Importance of Business Spirit: We examine how creative thinking, minimal rules, and the right to...
Nov 25, 2023•1 hr 16 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American, we learn conversations techniques with guest Peri Kinder, an acclaimed writer and podcast host with a passion for bridging divides and fostering inclusivity in our diverse nation. In this vibrant conversation, we navigate through the complex layers of human connection, empathy, and the art of active listening. Here are the key points we will be covering in this episode: Defining 'Bad Othering': We seek to understand the concept of "Bad Othering" and it...
Nov 22, 2023•1 hr
In this episode of The Optimistic American we look at how intellectual curiosity thrives, and the spirit of American patriotism comes alive. This probing episode peels through the layers of complex dialogues surrounding the current status of the US economy and Partisanship. We unfold the dilemmas of free speech within academic institutions, the realties faced by Jewish students, and how Western civilization impacts world history. Academic Discourse and Free Speech: We navigate through the heated...
Nov 19, 2023•1 hr 13 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American, we explore the intricate layers of national security, fiscal responsibility, and intellectual freedom. Paul Johnson hosts former Air Force pilot, influential advocate, and congressman, Chris Stewart as he helps us navigate through complex geopolitical realities, the pressing issues of mental health, and the often-underestimated importance of balanced budgets. We will be covering the following points in this episode: National Security: We deep-dive into...
Nov 15, 2023•51 min
Join the host Paul Johnson as we dive into Free Speech, the complexities of Regulation, and the multifaceted issue of the High Prices of Housing. Through this conversation, we focus specifically on the role social media plays in forming public opinion, bringing the spotlight onto regulatory matters and the stumbling blocks in legislation, especially Section 230 and Social Media Regulations. We are privileged to have special guest Doug Ducey, the former Governor of Arizona, bringing his unique ex...
Nov 10, 2023•1 hr 5 min
Dive deep into the heart of American politics in this riveting episode. As the curtain falls on season 4, explore the pivotal role of political reform, the significance of individualism, and the influence of patriotic heroism. Uncover the might of the individual, honor the heroes who shaped the nation, and explore the potential for a brighter future through political reform. As we usher in season 5, gear up for a captivating journey into the American political landscape. Mentioned in This Episod...
Nov 01, 2023•10 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American, Paul Johnson reviews the second republican debate. He shares how Independent and unaffiliated voters will determine the next President and how they view the major talking points from the debate. Paul starts by describing how the second republican debate will affect Independent voters. The effect of Independent voters' impact on primaries are not easy to poll. According to Paul’s background in presidential campaigns, Independent voters will determine th...
Oct 25, 2023•43 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American , Paul Johnson sits down with Dr. Emily Bashah to discuss social pressures of fitting in and morality and its role in shaping human behavior. They talk about the ethical dilemma people face when their moral compass is at odds with societal expectations. Paul starts the discussion by describing how morality can make or break a society. He reveals how morality often comes into conflict with social status - people would rather be morally wrong than lose th...
Oct 18, 2023•31 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American, Paul Johnson sits down with Dr. Emily Bashah to discuss the effects of love and forgiveness on our psychological and physiological well-being. They cover topics like the numerous benefits of forgiving others, lessons from countries who endured genocide, the use of forgiveness, what the research says about forgiveness, and much more. Paul starts the conversation by describing the research on the physiological and psychological benefits of love and forgi...
Oct 11, 2023•30 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American , Paul Johnson sits down with Dr. Emily Bashah to discuss the psychological benefits of being an independent or non-affiliated voter. The duo breaks down the benefits of being an independent voter, the rise of moral relativism in America, and how politicians benefit from being social chameleons. Paul and Emily start the conversation by describing the psychological benefits of being an independent or a non-affiliated voter. Paul shares his thoughts on th...
Oct 04, 2023•38 min
Paul Johnson analyzes the recent Republican debate from the view point of an independent voter, that featured former Vice President Mike Pence, Vivek Ramaswamy, Chris Christie, Ron Desantis and Nikki Haley. Paul’s observations touch upon the status quo of U.S. politics, the influence of a small minority population on partisan primaries, the importance of states like Iowa and New Hampshire, the present state of America, as well as upon conversations about abortion and foreign policy. Today’s epis...
Sep 27, 2023•43 min
Paul Johnson is joined by Dr. Emily Bashah to talk about extremist ideologies, violent groups, and what parents can do to protect their children from them. The couple touches upon what happens at a neurological level in children’s brains, what predators do to find “reclutes,” the Theory of Mind, and the T.R.I.P.L.E.D. parenting acronym. Paul and Dr. Bashah discuss when ideology can become a problem that leads to the recruiting of vulnerable people by extremist groups. Dr. Bashah explains that ex...
Sep 20, 2023•43 min
Paul Johnson unpacks the concept of addictive ideologies and the role they play in regards to the ongoing divisions in American society. He points out the addictive ideologies, of the far right and radical left, and the commonalities with all 21st century genocides – from Germany and China to Rwanda and Yugoslavia. And how the U.S. and other Western democracies can avoid similar catastrophes. Paul unpacks the question, “What is evil? Is evil an external force or is it actually something that’s i...
Sep 13, 2023•51 min
Paul Johnson’s guest in this episode is Forward Party Co-Chair Christine Todd Whitman. They discuss the current U.S. political landscape, what’s not working, and how ranked-choice voting could change the current status quo. Additionally, they go over Whitman’s journey from Republican New Jersey Governor and cabinet-level official to becoming involved with the Forward Party, the challenge of being unaffiliated with either major party, and how the Forward Party is trying to bring about change in A...
Sep 06, 2023•49 min
Paul Johnson sits down with presidential candidate and Forward Party Founder Andrew Yang. They discuss the status quo of the American political system and why the partisan system is dividing Americans and not providing them with a functional government. Additionally, the two talk about how the Forward Party was born and what it’s all about, the biggest threats to American democracy, and some mind-blowing statistics about the current political landscape. Andrew Yang and Paul Johnson kick off the ...
Aug 30, 2023•44 min
Paul Johnson sits down with Pastor Anthony Cox of the Mercy Hill Church. They talk about the Mercy Hill Church, its role within the Phoenix community, and whether America is worth saving. Moreover, they touch upon the connection between God, individualism, finding meaning, and what can be done to address divisions and change the status quo of American society. Pastor Cox discusses the idea that some religious leaders question whether America, as it is today, is worth saving. This creates a robus...
Aug 23, 2023•1 hr
Paul Johnson welcomes the president of Thomas R. Brown Foundations, Sarah Smallhouse, and Rodel Foundation Chairman & Founding Director, Don Budinger, to talk about how political reform is key to improving education. The three go over why their foundations, that were set up to improve education, have made leadership a high priority. They establish a real connection between a country’s leadership role and the quality of its public education system. They believe the partisan system has harmed ...
Aug 16, 2023•54 min
Paul Johnson welcomes U.S. Senator and No Labels Founding Chairman Joe Lieberman to discuss how No Labels plans to revolutionize American politics by empowering the actual majority. The two discuss how Lieberman almost became Vice President for candidate John McCain, their opinion on how many of today’s leaders operate, how U.S. politics and the public seem to be going in different directions, and what No Labels should do to get the amount of delegates that are necessary to actually become presi...
Aug 09, 2023•34 min
Paul Johnson welcomes Arizona business leader Beau Lane and The Value Equation author Christopher Volk. The three touch upon the role that businesses have inside the U.S. political system, discuss the incredible benefits Americans will have from the growing American economy, and the threat that the current partisan model poses to America. They talk about reforms to the partisan system that business leaders see as a way to help ensure that our political system benefits the economy as opposed to t...
Aug 02, 2023•44 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American , Paul Johnson is joined by Eric Bronner and Chris Sylvester from Veterans for Political Innovation. The three talk about the issues with the American political system, why political reform matters to veterans, the issues with the bi-partisan political scene, and what a real patriot is actually all about. Eric kicks off the conversation by sharing what Veterans for Political Innovation is all about. The initiative was launched about two years ago with t...
Jul 26, 2023•58 min
Paul Johnson welcomes Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Global Future Scholar, and former Senior Policy Director in the U.S. House of Representatives Dr. Sybil Francis. They discuss the Center for the Future of Arizona initiative, some of the key findings from big surveys, and talk about the so-called shared public values, and what data is actually showing in regard to divisions in America today. Dr. Sybil Francis shares the origin story of the Center for the Fut...
Jul 19, 2023•56 min
Paul Johnson is joined by fourth-generation Arizonan, former Speaker of the House in Arizona, and past Senate member Rusty Bowers. They talk about what led Bowers to run for office, his definition of “conservative,” what happened with the 2020 elections in relation to fake electors, and what can be done to change the current division in U.S. politics. Fourth-generation Arizonan Rusty Bowers shares his origin story, what led him to run for office in the first place, and what his first year was li...
Jul 12, 2023•57 min
