In this episode of The Optimistic American, host Paul Johnson is joined by Josh Abrams and Matt Burgess to explore how citizen assemblies are providing innovative solutions to local challenges like youth homelessness and political division. Through random selection, these assemblies give ordinary citizens a direct voice in tackling complex issues, fostering civic participation and community trust. Josh and Matt explain the transformative power of deliberative democracy — where citizens engage in...
Oct 16, 2024•48 min•Season 5Ep. 35
In this episode of New Frontiers , host Paul Johnson is joined by columnist Bob Robb and professor Henry Thompson. Join them as they unpack some of the most pressing issues facing the U.S. and the world today. From political showdowns to the potential of World War III to groundbreaking technology, the episode delves into topics that will shape our future, offering both hard-hitting analysis and a sense of optimism about what lies ahead. Topics Discussed in This Video: - J.D. Vance vs. Tim Walz D...
Oct 10, 2024•1 hr 27 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American, host Paul Johnson sits down with Alan Fahringer, a man whose life story exemplifies the power of personal transformation. Once caught in the destructive cycle of addiction and crime, Alan now advocates for integrity, accountability, and the life-changing impact of therapeutic communities. Join us as we dive into Alan’s past struggles, the pivotal moments that led to his recovery, and his inspiring message for anyone seeking a better life. Topics Discus...
Oct 03, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 5Ep. 34
In this episode of New Frontiers, host Paul Johnson is joined by columnist Bob Robb, professor Henry Thompson, economist Elliot Pollack, and special guest Paul Bentz, a political pollster expert. Join them as they break down how polling works and the impact the Trump vs Harris debate will have on polls and election forecasts. Together they explore key debate moments, the candidates' successes and failures, and how the political landscape may shift as we approach the 2024 election. Topics Discuss...
Sep 18, 2024•1 hr 16 min
In this episode of New Frontiers , hosts Paul Johnson & Henry Thompson sit down with General H.R. McMaster, former National Security Advisor under President Trump, to explore the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and national security. Drawing from his book At War With Ourselves , McMaster offers a balanced look at Trump’s leadership – highlighting both the good and the bad. The discussion dives into McMaster’s role in navigating the internal conflicts within the Trump administration, the ...
Sep 14, 2024•49 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American, host Paul Johnson sits down with Shannon Wright, a passionate advocate for community service and the representative of JustServe, a free online platform connecting volunteers with meaningful service opportunities. Together, they explore the transformative power of volunteerism and how it can enrich communities, bridge divides, and create a sense of belonging. Topics Discussed in the Video: - What is JustServe? Shannon introduces JustServe, a platform d...
Sep 11, 2024•47 min•Season 5Ep. 33
In this episode of New Frontiers , host Paul Johnson is joined by economist Elliott Pollack, syndicated columnist Bob Robb, and Professor Henry Tompson to dive deep into the economic policies of Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. The conversation kicks off with an analysis of Kamala Harris' Democratic Convention speech and spans topics like the housing market crisis, the impact of tariffs, and what to expect from the upcoming Harris vs Trump debate. Topics Discussed in This Video: Kamala’s Democrat...
Sep 05, 2024•1 hr 47 min
In this episode of The Optimistic American, host Paul Johnson sits down with James Phillips, a law professor at BYU and the Constitutional Government Initiative Director at the Wheatley Institute. The conversation dives into Phillips' thought-provoking theory on “juristocracy”—the idea that the Supreme Court has assumed an overactive role in shaping American policy, thereby undermining the role of Congress and, by extension, the people's voice in democracy. Topics Discussed in the Video: The Con...
Aug 28, 2024•52 min•Season 5Ep. 32
Join host Paul Johnson and his panel of experts – Bob Robb, Eliott Pollack, and Henry Thomson – as they dive into the major topics surrounding the Democratic Convention and the 2024 election. In this episode of New Frontiers, the discussion centers on the dynamics of the Democratic Convention, the unfolding situation in the Middle East, the contentious abortion debate, the ongoing push for changes to the Supreme Court, the state of the U.S. economy, and much more! Topic Discussed in This Video: ...
Aug 23, 2024•1 hr 26 min
Join host Paul Johnson on The Optimistic American as he sits down with Tonja Myles, a remarkable individual who transformed her life from battling addiction in a crack house to advising the President in the White House. In this powerful episode, Tonja shares her incredible journey of overcoming addiction, serving in the military, and advocating for mental health and faith-based recovery programs. Topics Discussed in the Video: - From the Crack House to the White House: Tonja Myles opens up about...
Aug 21, 2024•59 min•Season 5Ep. 31
In this special edition of New Frontiers, host Paul Johnson takes a deep dive into the 2024 Presidential Election, exploring the crucial role independent voters will play in determining the outcome. With a focus on the swing states that will decide the Electoral College, Paul explains why the candidates' ability to appeal to independents is key to securing victory in November. As he examines both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris’s strategies, Paul highlights the significance of the independent vot...
Aug 17, 2024•29 min
Join host Paul Johnson as he sits down with Lt Colonel Mark Hasara, a veteran of the Strategic Air Command with over 24 years of experience in military logistics. In this episode, they delve into the vital but often overlooked role of logistics in military operations. From his service in Desert Storm and Desert Shield to his work with the nuclear deterrent program, Commander Hasara shares invaluable insights and stories from his distinguished career. Topics Discussed in This Video: - Tanker Pilo...
Aug 14, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Season 5Ep. 30
Join host Paul Johnson as he welcomes Peter Herford, a legendary journalist from CBS, to discuss the pivotal moments in American journalism. With firsthand accounts of major events like the JFK assassination and the Vietnam War, Peter provides an in-depth look at the evolution of news media and the glory days of CBS. This episode offers a fascinating exploration of how journalism has shaped and been shaped by historical events. Topics Discussed in This Video: - The Early Years and CBS Beginnings...
Aug 09, 2024•1 hr 17 min•Season 5Ep. 29
Join host Paul Johnson on The Optimistic American as he welcomes Esther Allouche, a remarkable mother of ten, rabbi's wife, and a powerhouse at Congregation Beth Tefillah in Phoenix. In this episode, Esther shares her journey of raising a large family, her insights on Jewish family values, and how she balances her roles in the community and family life. With co-host Emily Bashah, they delve into the challenges and triumphs of parenting, marriage, and maintaining faith, especially during times of...
Aug 03, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Season 5Ep. 28
Join host Paul Johnson in this compelling episode of New Frontiers as he is joined by renowned economist Elliot Pollack, esteemed columnist Robert Robb, and historian Henry Thompson. Together, they navigate the complexities of the current political campaign, offering deep insights into economic forecasts, the housing market crisis, shifts in political ideologies, and the evolving foreign policy stance of the United States. This episode promises to provide thought-provoking analysis and expert pe...
Aug 01, 2024•1 hr 14 min
Join host Paul Johnson and co-host Dr. Emily Bashah on The Optimistic American as they welcome Dr. Peter Simi from Chapman University, a renowned expert on extremist organizations. In this episode, they explore the structure and recruitment tactics of extremist groups, the political influence of right-wing organizations, the fallout from the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, and the controversial Project 2025. Topics Discussed in the Video: - Extremist Organizations: Dr. Simi and Dr. Bashah...
Jul 24, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Season 5Ep. 27
Jul 20, 2024•33 min
Join Paul Johnson on New Frontiers for an in-depth discussion with top political analysts about the latest events in the presidential campaign, including the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, the U.S. Supreme Court's decision on presidential immunity, and the controversial Project 2025. From dissecting Joe Biden's debate performance to speculating on the potential impact of J.D. Vance as Trump's VP choice, this episode covers key political developments and their implications for America. ...
Jul 17, 2024•1 hr 5 min
Join Paul Johnson on New Frontiers as he delves into the pressing issues surrounding the upcoming presidential race. In this thought-provoking episode, Paul discusses the intricacies of presidential primaries, the potential of Joe Biden stepping down, the implications of the Supreme Court's decision on presidential immunity, and how these elements collectively impact the future of American politics. Topics Discussed in the Video: - The Presidential Race: Paul Johnson opens the episode by discuss...
Jul 15, 2024•10 min
Join host Paul Johnson on New Frontiers as he delves into a thought-provoking discussion with guests Bob Robb and Henry Thompson. This episode explores the concept of an "American Apocalypse" as presented by three prominent writers, discussing the political, economic, and social challenges facing the United States today. Topics Discussed in This Video: - The Trump-Biden Debate: Paul, Bob, and Henry discuss their perceptions and expectations surrounding the debate between Joe Biden and Donald Tru...
Jul 14, 2024•1 hr 20 min
Join host Paul Johnson and special guest Robert Satloff, Executive Director of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, in this compelling episode of New Frontiers. Satloff brings his extensive expertise in U.S. Middle East policy to discuss the critical issues of Israel losing the narrative, the Iranian nuclear threat, and the path to peace in the Middle East. Topics Discussed in the Video: - Israel Losing the Narrative: Robert Satloff discusses the complex issue of Israel losing control ...
Jul 06, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Join host Paul Johnson in this compelling episode of The Optimistic American, featuring Mary Dickson, a dedicated activist known as a "downwinder." Mary shares her powerful story of surviving cancer caused by nuclear fallout, her journey from diagnosis to activism, and her relentless fight for the RECA Bill, aimed at providing justice and compensation for those affected by atmospheric nuclear testing. Topics Discussed in the Video: - Nuclear Testing: Mary Dickson provides an overview of nuclear ...
Jul 03, 2024•49 min•Season 5Ep. 26
Join host Paul Johnson as he welcomes Steven Hilton, a passionate supporter of humanitarian causes and a dedicated advocate for Holocaust education. In this episode of New Frontiers, Steven shares his profound experiences from his two recent trips to Israel and discusses his inspiring project, the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center. Topics Discussed in This Video: - First Trip to Israel During the Gaza Conflict: Steven Hilton recounts his October 2023 trip to Israel, where he and his colle...
Jul 01, 2024•29 min
Join host Paul Johnson and distinguished guest Ambassador James Jeffrey, as they delve into critical discussions on the U.S. strategic position in the Middle East and Israel’s response to recent attacks. Ambassador Jeffrey, with decades of experience in American diplomacy, shares his insights on key geopolitical issues affecting the region and the world. Topics Discussed in This Video: - The U.S. Strategic Position in the Middle East & Israel’s Response to Attacks: Ambassador James Jeffrey d...
Jun 30, 2024•38 min
Join host Paul Johnson in this enlightening episode of The Optimistic American as he welcomes special guests Ashley Phillips, Kevin Shrum, and Brandi Kellett. Ashley, one of the driving forces behind the Citizen Solution program created by Builders in partnership with Convergence Center for Policy Resolution, discusses the innovative approach to overcoming toxic polarization by fostering civil discourse and finding common ground on divisive issues. The episode delves into the panel's experiences...
Jun 26, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 5Ep. 25
Join Paul Johnson and his esteemed guests on this thought-provoking episode of New Frontiers, where they delve into pressing global and domestic issues. In this episode, Paul opens with an editorial on the importance of defending Western values in the face of radical ideologies. The discussion spans a wide range of topics including the Israel-Gaza conflict, political reform in America, the role of universities in shaping political discourse, and the controversial Hunter Biden case. Topics Discus...
Jun 22, 2024•1 hr 16 min
Join host Paul Johnson and expert Dr. Emmanuel Navon on New Frontiers as they dive into Israel's historical mission and real-world diplomacy, exploring how the nation balances power and mission throughout its history. The discussion also covers Israel's policy and diplomacy post-October 7th attacks, emphasizing the country's strategic responses and global interactions. The panel debates the importance of universal values in civics education, challenging relativistic views and highlighting the si...
Jun 16, 2024•41 min
Join host Paul Johnson in this compelling episode of The Optimistic American as he sits down with Dr. Christian Vom Lehn, a renowned professor of economics at Brigham Young University and Princeton graduate. Dr. Vom Lehn brings his expertise in geoeconomics and labor economics to provide an in-depth analysis of inflation and its impact on the U.S. economy. Topics Discussed in the Video: - Economic Philosophy: Paul Johnson and Dr. Christian Vom Lehn delve into the philosophical foundations of eco...
Jun 12, 2024•1 hr•Season 5Ep. 24
Join host Paul Johnson, economist Elliot Pollock, columnist Bob Robb, and Professor Henry Thompson in this enlightening episode of New Frontiers. This episode covers a range of crucial topics, from the Trump trial's political and societal impacts to a comprehensive analysis of the current economic landscape. Topics Discussed in the Video: - D-Day Reflections: The panel opens the episode by sharing reflections about D-Day, highlighting the historical significance of the event and its impact on th...
Jun 06, 2024•1 hr 29 min
In this episode of New Frontiers, hosts Paul Johnson and Professor Henry Thompson sit down with Dr. Matthew Mehmet, a leading expert in nuclear science and engineering with a Ph.D. from MIT. Dr. Mehmet discusses groundbreaking advancements in the nuclear energy sector and the transformative potential of new modular reactor technologies. Discover how these innovations are set to reshape the future of energy, offering safer, more sustainable, and cost-effective solutions. Topics Discussed in This ...
Jun 02, 2024•1 hr 28 min
