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 discuss the hierarchical structure of extremist groups, highlighting how their organized rankings enhance operational efficiency. They delve into the recruitment processes, including the use of social media and technology to spread ideologies and attract new members. The discussion also touches on the challenging process of helping individuals leave these groups. - Right-Wing Organizations: The conversation shifts to the various types of right-wing organizations and their increasing involvement in politics. Dr. Simi discusses how these groups have embedded themselves in social systems and society, influencing political discourse and actions. - Extremist Organizations and the Assassination Attempt on Donald Trump: Paul and Dr. Simi examine how right-wing groups have leveraged the assassination attempt on Donald Trump to further their agendas. They explore the spread of conspiracy theories and the potential for increased violence and division within America as a result. - Project 2025: The episode concludes with an in-depth look at Project 2025, its implications for America, and the key players behind it. Paul and Dr. Simi discuss Donald Trump's involvement and the broader concerns for American society, emphasizing the importance of public discourse to address these issues. 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 01:16 - Post Trump Assassination Attempt 06:53 - Right Wing Organizations & The Political Sphere 08:40 - America Swastika 15:09 - Hidden Spaces 17:08 - The Organizational Structure of Extremist Groups 24:38 - Homegrown Terrroism vs State Sponsored Jihadism 28:23 - The Recruitment into Extremist Groups 35:11 - Trump, Violence, and American Division 51:39 - Project 2025 59:54 - How Will Right Wingers React to the Trump Assassination Attempt 1:03:08 - Pulling People Out Extremist Organizations 1:06:08 - Social Media & Social Identity 1:10:18 - Final Remarks & Conclusion

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 testing in the United States, which began in 1951 at the Nevada Test Site. She explains the devastating effects of atmospheric testing, which continued until 1962, leaving a legacy of radiation exposure that impacted countless lives across the American West and beyond. - From Diagnosis to Activism: Mary recounts her personal journey of discovering the connection between her thyroid cancer and the nuclear fallout. As a journalist, she began documenting the stories of other affected individuals, leading her to create a powerful play that brought widespread attention to the plight of downwinders. - The RECA Bill: The discussion delves into the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA), its history, and the current efforts to expand its coverage. Mary explains the opposition to the bill, primarily based on its cost, and outlines the potential next steps if the bill does not pass. - Seeking Justice for Radiation Victims: Mary explains the limitations of litigation against the government and why current healthcare provisions are insufficient for those affected by radiation exposure. She provides insights into the application process for RECA compensation and calls for public support to ensure justice for downwinders. 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 02:22 - The History of Nuclear Testing 06:39 - Atmospheric Testing 07:37 - Discovering the Fallout's Impact 12:30 - From Diagnosis to Activism 15:31 - Creating a Play 20:57 - The RECA Bill 25:32 - The Opposition 26:37 - The Cost of The Bill 28:56 - The timeline 30:13 - If It Doesn't Pass, What’s Next? 32:01 - Why Litigation Doesn't Work 34:11 - Why Healthcare Isn’t Enough 35:48 - Applying and Receiving Compensation 41:12 - How to Help the Cause 47:21 - Final Remarks & Conclusion

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 in Tennessee, where they tackled topics ranging from gun rights and safety to broader societal issues. Topics Discussed in this Video: Citizen Solutions: Ashley Phillips introduces Citizen Solutions, a program under the Builders umbrella aimed at overcoming toxic polarization in America. She explains how the program was formed to address divisive issues by bringing together ideologically diverse citizens. The goals of Citizen Solutions include finding common ground, fostering intellectual humility, and creating collaborative solutions to contentious topics such as gun rights and safety. Breaking Away from a Binary View: The discussion highlights the limitations of a binary political perspective, emphasizing the importance of seeing beyond partisan divides. Brandi Kellett and Kevin Shrum share their experiences in navigating complex issues like gun rights and safety, showing that individuals can hold diverse views that don’t fit neatly into a binary framework. This segment underscores the value of precise language, personal stories, and civil discourse in bridging ideological gaps. School Gun Violence: The panel addresses the tragedy that occurred at the Covenant School in Nashville. Brandi, an educator, shares her personal and professional concerns about the impact of such events on students and the community. The conversation delves into studies and data regarding gun violence in schools, discussing the prevalence and patterns of such incidents. Potential solutions are explored, emphasizing the importance of both policy changes and community-based approaches to enhance school safety while respecting diverse viewpoints on gun rights and safety. Government Limitations and the Role of Community: Paul Johnson discusses the limitations of government in solving societal problems, emphasizing the critical role of community engagement. Paul explains how individuals and local communities can take initiative to address issues like gun violence, lack of safety measures, and polarization, highlighting successful examples from the Citizen Solutions program. This segment underscores the power of local action and the importance of fostering a culture of civic responsibility. 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 02:18 - Citizen Solutions 15:03 - Gun Rights and Safety 24:12 - Breaking Away From a Binary View 42:14 - Addressing School Gun Violence: Key Findings and Proposals 53:06 - Government's Limitations and Community Power 57:52 - Scaling a Problem Solving Mindset 1:01:55 - Final Remarks & Conclusion

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 economics, tracing its evolution from classical thinkers to contemporary theories. Learn how these philosophical insights shape our understanding of economic policies today. - Free Trade: Explore the complexities of free trade with Dr. Vom Lehn as he discusses its benefits and drawbacks. The conversation highlights how international trade policies with countries like China and Russia impact the U.S. economy and national security. - Inflation: Gain a comprehensive understanding of inflation, including its causes, demographic impacts, and benefits. Both Paul and Dr. Vom Lehn explain the recent surge in inflation, its effect on different population groups such as seniors, renters, and homeowners, and the broader economic implications. - Monetary Policy: Learn about the Federal Reserve's role in managing inflation through monetary policy. Dr. Vom Lehn breaks down the mechanics of interest rates, quantitative easing, and the current tightening measures, providing insights into how these actions influence the economy. - SWOT Analysis of The United States: The episode concludes with a strategic SWOT analysis of the U.S. economy. Dr. Vom Lehn identifies the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing the nation, offering a balanced perspective on the current economic landscape and future prospects. 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 01:50 - Economic Philosophy 05:11 - Free Trade 14:09 - Inflation 27:59 - Monetary Policy 42:25 - Benefits to Inflation 46:55 - SWOT Analysis of The United States 59:12 - Final Remarks & Conclusion

On this episode of The Optimistic American, hosts Dr. Emily Bashah and Paul Johnson are accompanied by Dr. John G Horgan, a preeminent psychologist, professor at Georgia State University, and is renowned for his deep insights into the psychology of terrorism. Join us as we explore the complex world of terrorist psychology, the nuances of radicalization, and the intriguing process of recruitment. Topics Discussed in This Video: - What is Terrorism and The Psychology Behind It: Dr. Horgan defines terrorism and discusses the psychological factors that drive individuals towards such extreme behaviors. Additionally, Dr. Emily Bashah discusses specific examples such as incel and jihadist ideologies. - How People Get Involved With Terrorist Groups: The conversation explores the roles of recruiters in the radicalization process, revealing how individuals are drawn into terrorist activities and the sophisticated tactics used to lure them. - The Contrast of Pessimism and Optimism: Reflecting contrasting viewpoints, Dr. Horgan articulates his pessimism about current counterterrorism strategies, while Paul Johnson discusses his optimism based on the resilience and ideals of American society. - Pathways to Disengagement from Terrorism: This segment delves into the possibilities and processes of disengagement from terrorist groups, discussing strategies for confronting and assisting those who are radicalized. - The Impact of Politics on American Psychology & Campus Chaos: This segment explores how political climates affect the psychology of Americans and the increasing tensions on college campuses driven by political and ideological conflicts. 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 02:06 - What is Terrorism & Ideology? 04:11 - The Psychology of A Terrorist 06:36 - Incel & Jihadism 09:37 - How People Get Involved w/ Terrorist Groups 16:31 - Terrorist Recruiters 26:24 - Why Are You Pessimistic About This? 29:19 - Reasons to be Optimistic 34:29 - Are Terrorist Groups a One Way Street? 38:47 - Confronting People Who Have Been Radicalized 46:19 - Politics and Its Effect on The Psychology of America 55:57 - State Sponsored Terrorism 1:00:50 - Chaos On College Campuses 1:14:54 - College Campuses, Terrorism, and Ideologies 1:17:19 - Anyone Can Be Drawn In… 1:18:42 - How To Protect Yourself 1:20:06 - Final Remarks & Conclusion

Join host Paul Johnson on The Optimistic American for a transformative discussion with guest Aaron Bare, who brings his expertise on exponential growth and innovation. This episode dives deep into how businesses achieve rapid growth, the traits of visionary thinkers, and the broader impact of these dynamics on healthcare, politics, and societal norms. Topics Discussed in This Video: - Exponential Growth and Visionary Traits: Discover the secrets behind businesses achieving exponential growth and the traits shared by leaders who drive such dynamic change. This segment explores the foundational elements that enable rapid scalability and the mindset necessary to envision and achieve ambitious goals. - The Power of a Growth Mindset: Learn how adopting a growth mindset allows individuals and organizations to transcend traditional limitations and continuously evolve in response to challenges. - Government Bypass and Media Manipulation: Investigate how innovative companies navigate around traditional governmental barriers to effect change, and explore the concerning ways in which the media manipulates public perception. Gain insights into strategies individuals can employ to counteract these influences. - Change Agents and Societal Impact: Aaron underscores the crucial role of change agents in challenging the status quo and the significant impact individuals can have in shaping a better future. This segment inspires listeners to recognize and harness their potential to drive change. - Political Landscape and the Role of the Individual: Reflect on the current political environment as we approach 2024, understanding how individuals can influence political discourse and the importance of challenging established norms to build a better world. - Control and Empowerment: Aaron emphasizes the importance of recognizing the areas where you have personal control and how you can empower yourself to take actionable steps towards shaping your destiny and positively impacting the world. 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 01:31 - Why Are Businesses Able to Grow Exponentially? 10:08 - Common Traits Amongst Exponential Thinkers 13:11 - The “Seven Steps” 17:44 - Healthcare 21:03 - A Growth Mindset 23:55 - By Passing The Government 25:20 - Manipulating The Average Person 27:42 - How To Solve 80% of The Country's Problem 28:05 - The Media & Manipulation 39:51 - Change Agents 47:58 - The Things You Have Control Over 1:00:26 - Politics in 2024 1:09:41 - F#%k The Status Quo 1:18:38 - The Individual & Trying to Build a Better World 1:25:54 - Final Remarks & Conclusion