Join us in an inspiring conversation with Jany Deng, one of the original Lost Boys of Sudan, as he shares his harrowing journey from the war-torn villages of Sudan to the bustling streets of Phoenix, Arizona. In this episode of The Optimistic American, host Paul Johnson and Jany delve into the realities of civil war, the challenges of life in refugee camps, and the transformative experience of becoming an American citizen. This story is not just about survival; it's about the power of hope and the unyielding human spirit in the face of adversity. Topics Discussed in the Video: - Early Life in Sudan: Jany recounts his early childhood in Sudan, marked by a sudden transition from normal village life to the chaos of civil war. Learn about the cultural and societal structure of Jany's community before the conflict began. - The Journey of the Lost Boys: Discover the incredible story of thousands of young boys, including Jany, who embarked on a perilous journey across Africa to escape the violence, facing hunger, danger, and uncertainty with remarkable courage. - Life in Refugee Camps: Jany shares insights into the daily struggles and realities of living in refugee camps in Ethiopia and Kenya, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit amid dire conditions. - Resettlement in America: The journey from being a refugee to becoming an American citizen is fraught with challenges and new beginnings. Jany discusses his assimilation into American society, the cultural adjustments, and the opportunities that reshaped his life. - A Message of Hope and Resilience: Reflecting on his journey, Jany offers a message of hope, emphasizing the importance of resilience, community support, and the enduring pursuit of the American dream. You can listen to this episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Google Podcasts! Spotify: https://optamlink.com/spotify Apple Podcasts: https://optamlink.com/apple Google Podcasts: https://optamlink.com/google We post new content every week so make sure to subscribe to stay in the loop. Learn more about The Optimistic American by checking out our website! https://www.optamerican.com Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 00:52 - A Stolen Childhood 11:31 - The First Walk 13:42 - Arriving at Ethiopia 15:11 - The Second Walk 16:40 - A 3 Month Journey 18:51 - Arriving at Kenya 20:07 - Coming to the U.S. 29:34 - Becoming a U.S. Citizen 35:09 - Forming the Lost Boys Center 35:48 - Gratitude to America 36:34 - Everyone Has a Story 37:50 - A Connection to Help Someone 38:48 - Why is the U.S. Special? 40:13 - Going to ASU & Giving Back 41:18 - “If I Can Do It, You Can Do It” 42:54 - Opening the Biggest Education Center in Sudan 43:38 - Micro Loans 47:28 - Looking for Opportunities, Not Handouts 53:39 - What’s Your Life Goal? 55:29 - Final Remarks & Conclusion

Join Paul Johnson in an uplifting conversation with Janine Stange, known affectionately as the "Anthem Girl" for her unprecedented achievement of singing the National Anthem in all 50 states. Beyond her musical journey, Janine shares the personal adversities and losses that propelled her to find purpose, become a sought-after motivational speaker, and devote her time to supporting veterans. This episode delves into the power of setting ambitious goals, the importance of American history, and how individual resilience can inspire collective pride and progress. Topics Discussed in the Video: - Overcoming Personal Adversity: Janine opens up about the challenges and losses that reshaped her outlook on life and led her to set a unique goal that combined her passion for music with a deep sense of patriotism. - The National Anthem Journey: Discover the motivation behind Janine's ambitious goal to sing the National Anthem in every state, the obstacles she overcame, and the profound impact this mission had on her life and others. - Veterans Support: Janine shares her dedication to working with veterans, highlighting the importance of giving back to those who've served and the personal fulfillment derived from this service. - The Historical Significance of the National Anthem: Learn about the inspiring story of Francis Scott Key, the significance of Fort McHenry, and why the National Anthem holds a special place in Janine's heart and American culture - Motivational Speaking and Goal Setting: Janine discusses the transition to motivational speaking, including practical advice on goal setting, finding purpose, and the power of resilience in the face of adversity. You can listen to this episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Google Podcasts! Spotify: https://optamlink.com/spotify Apple Podcasts: https://optamlink.com/apple Google Podcasts: https://optamlink.com/google We post new content every week so make sure to subscribe to stay in the loop. Learn more about The Optimistic American by checking out our website! https://www.optamerican.com Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 01:21 - Singing In All 50 States 05:10 - Why The Song Matters 07:32 - Francis Scott Key 17:19 - PART OF THE GREATEST SUPERPOWER! 19:53 - A Motivational Speaker 24:29 - The 5 Step Motivation Mindset 30:18 - Happiness, Suffering, & Purpose 32:21 - Looking Back 34:51 - 100 Missions 40:26 - Lessons Learned & The Future Plans 43:00 - Connecting w/ People Through Personal Stories 45:13 - Optimistic or Losing Faith? 49:39 - Final Remarks & Conclusion 51:17 - National Anthem 50th Performance