Top of Mind with Julie Rose

TRAILER: Top of Mind Podcast with Julie Rose Jan 26, 2022

A podcast for people who are turned-off by the depressing, divisive nature of the news, but still want to engage with important issues in our communities. Hosted by radio journalist Julie Rose, Top of Mind tackles one tough topic each week in a way that will challenge you, help you feel more empathy and empower you to become a better citizen, a kinder neighbor and a more effective advocate. Top of Mind with Julie Rose is a production of BYUradio.

Bonus Episode: When the People Decide - Putting Money and Power in People’s Hands May 06, 2024

We’re in between episodes this week on Top of Mind. In the meantime, we’ve got a story for you from a podcast we think you’re really going to like. It’s called When the People Decide, a podcast from the McCourtney Institute for Democracy at Penn State. The podcast traces the stories of Americans who are getting their hands dirty doing the hard work of democracy. In this episode, host Jenna Spinelle dives deep into an innovative budgeting practice where citizens decide how to spend a portion of their city’s budget. Imagine if you could be more directly involved in deciding how your city spends its money. Would having that kind of influence change how you feel about your city? Or how much you trust local officials? Find When the People Decide on your favorite podcast app. Or here: https://thepeopledecide.show/

BONUS: All the Best Advice from Guests on Top of Mind Season 3 Jun 26, 2023

As a final bonus to finish Top of Mind Season 3 “Finding Fairness” we’ve compiled the best insight from guests throughout the season on how to be a better citizen, kinder neighbor and more effective advocate for the things we care about. We're not a "how-to" podcast with checklists and action items. We probe for more clarity and empathy on the topic and let you decide where to go next. But our guests often do offer practical advice that’s pretty great. So here it is for you in one quick listen! Right now is a great time to binge all of Season 3 “Finding Fairness” because we’re taking a short break for the summer. We’ll be back in August with Top of Mind Season 4 “Assessing Assumptions.” Could the systems we've built to keep our communities safe and thriving work better if we weren't so set in our ways?

ARCHIVE BONUS: How to Navigate the Journey from Loved One to Caregiver Aug 15, 2022

Caregiving for a loved one can be difficult and confusing. Julie and her siblings are among the more than 20 million Americans who currently care for an aging parent- so this week's pick from the Top of Mind live radio archive hits close to home. In 2020, Julie spoke with Zachary White and Donna Thomson who combine their personal and professional experience into a "how to" handbook for the rest of us called “The Unexpected Journey of Caring." Guests: Donna Thomson, author, caregiver, activist, author of "The Four Walls of My Freedom: Lessons I've Learned from a Life of Caregiving" Zachary White, professor of communication, Queens University of Charlotte, co-author (with Thomson) of "The Unexpected Journey of Caring: The Transformation from Loved One to Caregiver"

ARCHIVE BONUS: Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: The Essentials of Cooking with Samin Nosrat Aug 01, 2022

Netflix star Samin Nosrat shares the one amazing meal that inspired her to become a professional chef. Her cookbook “Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat” is a guide to the essential elements of successful cooking. In another of Julie’s favorite conversations from the Top of Mind live radio show archives, Nosrat explains how to make delicious food whether you’re a conscientious recipe-follower or a free-wheeling experimenter (like Julie). Top of Mind is a BYUradio podcast. Guest: Samin Nosrat, chef and author of "Salt, Fat, Acid Heat" (which is also a Netflix documentary series)

ARCHIVE BONUS: She Believed She Was White. At Age 27, She Learned the Truth About Her Race. Aug 08, 2022

Sarah Valentine grew up believing she was the white daughter of her white parents. As an adult she learned her parents had been lying to her. She’s actually half Black. That truth completely unraveled Valentine’s sense of identity, which she writes about in her memoir “When I Was White.” Top of Mind host Julie Rose says she thinks often about this interview from our daily radio show archive because it really led her question her assumptions about race and racism. Top of Mind is a BYUradio podcast. Guest: Sarah Valentine, author of "When I Was White: A Memoir"

ARCHIVE BONUS: The Organ Thieves - A History of Transplants in the Segregated South May 16, 2022

Before we were a weekly podcast, Top of Mind was a daily radio show. We were on the air – live - for two hours every weekday. And we did that for seven years. This means there’s a ton of great material in our archive. So, today we’re giving you a taste of that archive. First, we take a deep dive into the history of organ transplant surgery – and its darker side. You’ll hear how the TV world of Star Trek has influenced real science. We’ll be back with a new episode of the podcast on Monday, May 23rd.

ARCHIVE BONUS: The Other Talk - Why White Families Need to Talk About Race Jun 27, 2022

In this bonus episode from the Top of Mind archive: "The Other Talk." Most kids of color in America grow up talking about racism at home, but most white children don't. They should, though, says author Brendan Kiely. His new book is a guide for starting the conversation about race at home. Then, a short, inspiring chat with a doctor who collects flower arrangements and delivers them to patients in the hospital where she works.

ARCHIVE BONUS: The Secret Power of Breathing and Yawning Jul 25, 2022

This week, Julie shares a conversation from Top of Mind’s live radio show archive that changed her life. In 2017 she spoke with Dan Brule, who is one of the world’s leading experts on breathwork. He recommends taking time daily to practice breathing. The techniques he shared have become Julie’s best tool for coping with stress and anxiety. Guest: Dan Brule, author of “Just Breathe: Mastering Breathwork for Success in Life, Love, Business and Beyond"

ARCHIVE BONUS: What Synesthesia Can Teach Us About Disagreeing Aug 22, 2022

People with synesthesia perceive the world very differently from the rest of us. Their senses merge so that sounds might also have tastes. The days of the week may be different colors. Numbers and letters might correspond to musical notes. This final installment in our summer series of archive interviews is especially meaningful to Julie because it drives home how two people can look at the same thing and see it very differently. What can the science of synesthesia teach us about navigating divisive issues we feel strongly about? Guest: Richard Cytowic, Clinical Professor of Neurology at George Washington University, author of "Wednesday is Indigo Blue" and "The Man Who Tasted Shapes"

BONUS: Holiday Thanks and Some Episode Recommendations Dec 26, 2022

Top of Mind launched its weekly format early in 2022 and we’re so gratified by your response. One listener wrote “I feel like I am becoming a better, more educated person every time I listen.” In this bonus podcast drop, Julie talks about some of the episodes from 2022 that affected her personally and several others perfect for helping you deal with challenges the holidays present (like grief and family conflict). We'd love to hear what you think of the podcast! What do you want more of? What would you like to see us do differently? Send an email to topofmind@byu.edu.

Bonus: How to Support Someone Who's Grieving Sep 19, 2022

A major side effect of being such a grief-averse culture is the sheer panic many of us feel when confronted with someone who’s suffered a devastating loss. What can you possibly say or do that will help? In this bonus episode you’ll hear Julie’s full conversation with grief specialist Lisa Athan. It’s packed full of practical tips and uplifting insight. Guest: Lisa Athan, founder of Grief Speaks

HALLOWEEN BONUS: Family-Friendly Audio Drama feat. Top of Mind's Julie Rose Oct 31, 2022

This week only on the Top of Mind podcast, a special Halloween treat. It’s an old-fashioned, family-friendly audio drama from storytelling podcast The Apple Seed about a family facing off against an evil robot maid. And there’s a voice you might recognize. Top of Mind host Julie Rose masquerades as the mom of the family. And stay tuned after the story for the inside scoop on Julie’s short-lived theater career. Subscribe to The Apple Seed podcast from BYUradio for a regular dose of stories for the whole family – folk tales, fairy tales, personal tales, historical tales and, of course, original radio dramas like the one you’re about to hear.

News from Top of Mind Feb 06, 2023

We're hard at work on a new season of Top of Mind and won't have a new episode on the podcast feed for a few weeks. So, it's a great time to listen back to episodes you may have missed. And keep your Stick With It stories coming to topofmind@byu.edu.

Is AI killing our creativity? Mar 03, 2025

It’s been about two years since the public got a taste of ChatGPT for the first time. Now, artificial intelligence has seeped into nearly every aspect of our lives. You can use AI to check your grammar or to generate content for social media. Students use it to write essays. AI can also generate artwork, music or audio in seconds. We’re relying more and more on generative AI tools like MidJourney, DALL-E, Claude, Perplexity, and Copilot—and the more we use it, the better it gets. But can AI really be creative? What does it even mean to be creative in the age of AI? Guests: Kate Brunotts, freelance music producer (https://www.breakingsound.com/kate-brunotts) John Cockley, co-founder of the illustration agency, Handsome Frank (https://www.handsomefrank.com/) Lindsay Brainard, professor of philosophy at the University of Alabama, Birmingham (https://www.lindsaybrainard.com/home) Claire Silver, AI collaborative artist (https://www.clairesilver.com/selected-work) Links: Letter from the Artist Rights Alliance: https://artistrightsnow.medium.com/200-artists-urge-tech-platforms-stop-devaluing-music-559fb109bbac

Free Speech on Campus: Protect Students or Speech? Feb 17, 2025

A 2024 Knight Foundation report found one in four college students think schools need to protect students by banning speech they may find offensive or biased, the largest share of students to answer that way since the survey first asked the question in 2016. 2024 also set a record for the number of attempts to disrupt or disinvite speaker, cancel performances, take down art exhibits and prevent the screening of films on US college campuses, according to the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE). What do these competing interests--to encourage student wellbeing and protect free speech on campus--mean for students and administrators trying to strike a balance? Guests: Jillian Lederman, Joseph Rago Memorial Fellow at The Wall Street Journal, 2024 graduate of Brown University ( https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/03/opinion/antisemitism-jews-campus.html) Kaleb Bakari Autman, undergraduate student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Emma Camp, assistant editor at Reason Magazine, 2022 graduate of the University of Virginia (https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/07/opinion/campus-speech-cancel-culture.html) Steve Bahls, president emeritus of Augustana College (retired in 2022), director of Presidential Mission and Vocation for the Council of Independent Colleges More 1st Amendment episodes from Top of Mind: Religious freedom: https://www.byuradio.org/top-of-mind-christian-or-not-unpacking-americas-religious-identity Free Speech: https://www.byuradio.org/d47c4b86-02d4-4a4d-997b-d1510ba9048b/top-of-mind-with-julie-rose-weighing-the-pros-and-cons-of-free-expression Free Press: https://www.byuradio.org/68e6b06a-73bb-4a0f-ace8-5f2b55bd066f/top-of-mind-with-julie-rose-can-the-news-be-trusted-americans-arent-too-sure Links: 2024 Knight Foundation Report on Free Expression: https://knightfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Knight-Fdn_Free-Expression_2024_072424_FINAL-1.pdf FIRE Databases:  https://www.thefire.org/research-learn?_page=1&keywords=&_limit=6&resource_type=1562

How Do We Solve Loneliness in America? Feb 03, 2025

In his parting prescription for the country, outgoing US Surgeon General, Doctor Vivek Murthy writes that he is worried about how exhausted and alone Americans are. Public health experts say loneliness has become an epidemic. Research shows social disconnection is about as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and more harmful than obesity. But loneliness in America is hardly new. Sociologists like Robert Putnam, author of the groundbreaking book Bowling Alone, have been sounding the alarm for nearly 25 years. In that time, loneliness has only accelerated, with online interaction replacing much of our face-to-face connection. What exactly is lacking for so many people in this country? What is the most useful way to think about this problem? And how can we solve it? Guests: Dr. Frank Clark, psychiatrist at Prisma-Health Upstate, clinical associate professor at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville ( https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/authors/frank-clark-md) Matt Fantastic, co-owner of Elm City Games in New Haven, Connecticut (https://www.elmcitygames.com/) Charlotte Donlon, spiritual director and author of The Great Belonging: How Loneliness Leads Us to Each Other (https://charlottedonlon.com/the-great-belonging-book) Links: Dr. Vivek Murthy’s Parting Prescription for America: https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/my-parting-prescription-for-america.pdf US Surgeon General’s Advisory Report on Loneliness: https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf

Does IQ Really Matter? Jan 20, 2025

Why is insulting someone’s intelligence such a potent put down? It’s more than saying someone lacks knowledge or book learning. It’s a statement of a person’s worth – of their potential to be successful. And for that, we can thank the IQ test. In this podcast episode, we explore how the IQ test was created and continues to shape our collective understanding of intelligence and disability. We hear from a mother struggling with the pros and cons of having her daughter with Down Syndrome routinely IQ tested at school. A school psychologist tackles common misconceptions about the nature of IQ testing. And we consider how the IQ test’s narrow definition of “intelligence” affects people with dyslexia and autism, which have historically been conflated with intellectual disability. Guests: Pepper Stetler, professor of art history, Miami University, author of “A Measure of Intelligence: One Woman’s Reckoning with the IQ Test” (https://www.pepperstetler.com/) Terisa Gabrielsen, professor of school psychology at Brigham Young University (https://education.byu.edu/directory/view/terisa-gabrielsen) Quincy Hansen, neurodiversity and autism advocate, author of “Shake It Up: How to be Young, Autistic, and Make an Impact” (https://speakingofautismcom.wordpress.com/) Tim Odegard, Editor in Chief of the Annals of Dyslexia, professor of psychology at Middle Tennessee State University (https://dyslexia.mtsu.edu/staff/)

The Surprising Truth About Reconciliation After Estrangement Jan 06, 2025

More than a quarter of Americans are estranged from at least one family member. Parent/child estrangement is the most common – especially between dads and their kids. There’s a lot about modern American life that has made family estrangement more common, and younger generations are more willing to talk about it on social media. But reconciliation happens more than you might think. On this episode of Top of Mind, we explore the reality of estrangement from both the parent and the child's perspective. And we hear what it takes to reconcile. Guests: Charlotte Gill, author of Almost Brown: A Memoir (https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/705633/almost-brown-by-charlotte-gill/) Sheri McGregor, author of Done with the Crying and Beyond Done with the Crying (https://a.co/d/93JwJ4C) Joshua Coleman, clinical psychologist and author of The Rules of Estrangement: Why Adult Children Cut Ties and How to Heal the Conflict (https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/622584/rules-of-estrangement-by-joshua-coleman-phd/)

Christian or Not? Unpacking America's Religious Identity Dec 23, 2024

Can America guarantee free expression of religion in public as an officially secular, but culturally Christian nation? Expressing religious faith in public is both protected by law and socially acceptable. As a secular nation, the US has no official religion, but since two-thirds of American are Christian, most of the displays of religion in public places we see represent one faith. For example, Christmas is the only religious holiday observed by the that’s also a federal holiday when all government services and most private businesses are closed. And some argue that, because of our history and founding, America was intended to be a Christian nation. On this episode of Top of Mind we explore how free non-Christians in America actually feel to express their religious identity and beliefs in public? What’s the fairest way to approach the topic of religion in public places? Did the American founders intend to establish a Christian nation - and what does that complicated history mean for freedom of religion in the United States today? Guests: Linda K. Wertheimer, journalist and author of Faith Ed: Teaching About Religion in an Age of Intolerance (https://www.lindakwertheimer.com/?page_id=722) Rim-Sarah Alouane, PhD in Law and researcher at Université Toulouse Capitole in France (https://berkleycenter.georgetown.edu/posts/the-weaponization-of-laicite) John Fea, professor of American History at Messiah University and author of Was America Founded as a Christian Nation? A Historical Introduction (https://www.amazon.com/Was-America-Founded-Christian-Nation/dp/0664235042)

The Pandemic Shook America's Trust in Vaccines—and Taught Us Something About Building Trust in Institutions Dec 09, 2024

Trust in institutions like the media, the medical system, public schools, all branches of government, and science is at an all-time low. When it comes to vaccines specifically, fewer than half of Americans think childhood vaccines are "extremely important." That's the lowest level in 25 years. The pandemic sparked new vaccine hesitancy, driven by shifting health guidelines and vaccination mandates. And it shook America’s trust, especially in vaccines. But it also taught us something about building trust in institutions. On this episode of Top of Mind, we're taking a closer look at what happened to America's relationship with vaccines during the pandemic to see what we can learn about building - and maintaining - public trust. We'll hear a range of viewpoints exploring what it was like to gain trust, to lose it, and to try and foster it. This is not an episode about whether or not people should get vaccinated. Vaccines are just a useful lens to get at the deeper issue of how and why we trust institutions. Guests: Heather Simpson, co-founder of website "Back to the Vax" (https://backtothevax.com/) Maya Goldenberg, professor of philosophy at the University of Guelph and the author of Vaccine Hesitancy: Public Trust, Expertise, and the War on Science (https://upittpress.org/books/9780822966906/) Jennifer Sharp, filmmaker and director of the Anecdotals (http://www.jennifersharpfilms.com/) Bill Petri, doctor, scientist and professor at the University of Virginia (https://dailyprogress.com/life-entertainment/local/wellness/dr-william-petri-lions-bears-and-covid-an-update-for-the-summer/article_e7747372-2422-11ee-a785-d3f1e0a035ef.html) Links: Episode on trust in elections: https://www.byuradio.org/top-of-mind-what-will-it-take-to-rebuild-american-trust-in-elections Episode on trust in media: https://www.byuradio.org/68e6b06a-73bb-4a0f-ace8-5f2b55bd066f/top-of-mind-with-julie-rose-can-the-news-be-trusted-americans-arent-too-sure

Why It's So Easy to Ignore Caregivers (Especially Moms) and How to Change That Nov 25, 2024

Care work is the labor essential to life. But two-thirds of caregiving goes uncompensated. What do we miss when we don’t value care work and how does this affect care workers? If we multiplied all the hours spent in a year on unpaid caregiving in America by the local minimum wage, it would be worth one trillion dollars. Yet none of it is accounted for in the official measures of the nation's economic health or productivity. And the vast majority is done by women. Meanwhile, the paid care sector has a critical shortage of daycare staff, home health aides and certified nursing assistants. America is in a care work crisis. In this podcast episode, we talk to a therapist and struggling mother about how she changed her mindset on care work. Then we talk to a former direct care worker about her experience in the field and her efforts to improve the paid care sector. Finally, we discuss the care economy with a mother and author who has struggled with her identity as a caregiver. Guests: - KC Davis, creator of the StruggleCare platform and author of How to Keep House While Drowning (https://www.strugglecare.com/) - Diondre Clarke, former direct care worker and field organizer for the National Domestic Workers Alliance (https://www.domesticworkers.org/) - Elissa Strauss, author of When You Care: The Unexpected Magic of Caring for Others (https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/When-You-Care/Elissa-Strauss/9781982169275)

America Has an Organ Shortage. Could Paying Donors Close the Gap? Nov 11, 2024

There are more than 100,000 people on the waitlist for an organ transplant. Every day 17 of them die. Most organs for transplant come from deceased donors. But the organs in highest demand for transplantation are kidneys and livers – both of which can be donated while a person is still alive. So, we could save thousands of lives each year if more people were willing make a living organ donation. Some advocates say giving donors money would increase organ donations enough to eliminate the entire waitlist. But federal law makes it illegal to buy or sell organs. Ethicists have real concerns about coercion and exploitation, too. In this podcast episode, we're exploring America's organ shortage and asking whether paying donors could close the gap. Guests: David Galbenski, liver transplant recipient and co-founder of the Living Liver Foundation (https://livingliver.org/) Elaine Perlman, kidney donor, Executive Director of Waitlist Zero and leading advocate for the End Kidney Deaths Act (http://waitlistzero.org/) Kathleen McLaughlin, journalist and author of Blood Money; The Story of Life, Death, and Profit Inside America's Blood Industry Al Roth, Nobel-prize winning economist, Stanford University, expert in market design and game theory (https://marketdesigner.blogspot.com/)

Why We Choose to Lean into the Discomfort of Making this Podcast Oct 28, 2024

Meet the teams behind Top of Mind and Uncomfy in this special crossover episode, where we share stories of sticking with a challenging perspective while working on the shows. We are exposed to a lot of nuanced viewpoints as we put podcast episodes together, which gives us the perfect opportunity to practice what we preach: choosing to lean into discomfort instead of lashing out or shying away. We’ve found clarity about our own beliefs, empathy for the people around us, and also developed the skills to tackle tough conversations. Tune in to Top of Mind to practice engaging with important, complicated topics. Check out Uncomfy, too, where we’re sharing stories of people choosing to engage in an uncomfortable moment instead of stepping back. And if you’ve had an “Uncomfy” experience lately, share it with us by emailing uncomfy@byu.edu. Guests: Top of Mind producers - Alayna Beck, Caleb Leach, Vanessa Goodman, and James Hoopes. Uncomfy producers - Samuel Benson and Henrique Prado. Find links to the podcast episodes referenced in this conversation below: What Does it Mean to Be White in America?: https://www.byuradio.org/top-of-mind-what-does-it-mean-to-be-white-in-america The Changing Ways We Decide Who Gets into College an Why it Matters: https://www.byuradio.org/top-of-mind-the-changing-way-we-decide-who-gets-into-college-and-why-it-matters Why We’re So Anxious About Retirement in America — And How We Can Fix It: https://www.byuradio.org/top-of-mind-why-were-so-anxious-about-retirement-in-america-and-how-we-can-fix-it What Can We Do About America’s Money in Politics Problem?: https://www.byuradio.org/top-of-mind-what-can-we-do-about-americas-money-in-politics-problem Spending a Day with People Who Think You Hate Them – Jefferson Shupe: https://www.byuradio.org/e14-spending-a-day-with-people-who-think-you-hate-them-jefferson-shupe

What Will it Take to Rebuild American Trust in Elections? Oct 14, 2024

Only 44% of Americans say they have a "great deal" or "quite a bit of confidence" that the results of the 2024 election will be accurate. But party affiliation is a big part of the story. If you break down that 44%, only 1 in 4 Republicans have high confidence, compared to nearly 3 out of 4 Democrats. The reasons that so many Americans currently lack trust in elections differ on the political left and right, but a representative democracy like ours relies on all voters having a high level of confidence in the results of an election no matter who wins. Without it, people stop voting, losing candidates don't concede, winners can't lead effectively and the transition from one administration to the next is no longer guaranteed to be peaceful. In this episode, we hear what leads people on the left and right to lack trust in the integrity of U.S. elections. We meet a county clerk who ran for office because of his concerns about fraud and mail voting. Now he’s administering his first presidential election and trying to convince other voters to trust the system. Then we explore the recommendations of a group of Democrats and Republicans who came together in search of common ground around restoring trust in elections. Guests: Lenny Mirra, Republican former Massachusetts State Representative, “Red” member of the Braver Angels Trustworthy Elections Initiative leadership team (https://braverangels.org/trustworthy-elections/) Catherine Roeske, city clerk of Oak Creek, Wisconsin (https://www.oakcreekwi.gov/government/departments/clerk/elections) Aaron Davidson, Clerk of Utah County, Utah (https://vote.utahcounty.gov/home) Jay Young, Senior Director of Voting and Democracy, Common Cause (https://www.commoncause.org/issues/stopping-voter-suppression/) Reena Bernards, creator of Common Ground Workshop, “Blue” member of the Braver Angels Trustworthy Elections Initiative leadership team (https://braverangels.org/trustworthy-elections/)

What Can We Do About America’s Money in Politics Problem? Sep 30, 2024

Presidential elections in the US are twice as expensive as they were just a decade ago, and so are the most competitive Congressional races. Even state and local elections now routinely see record spending – typically from “outside groups” that have no restrictions on what they can raise or spend. The current state of money in politics is a rare point of bipartisan agreement in America. Overwhelming majorities of Republicans and Democrats think the cost of campaigns makes it hard for good people to run for office and that big donors and special interest groups have too much influence over politicians. Plus, political donors and special interest groups are more ideological than the average citizen, making political campaigns more polarized. In this podcast episode, we explore what’s changed in the last decade to dramatically increase the flow of money in US elections. And we look at a wide range of efforts underway to address the influence of money in politics. Guests: David Jolly, former Republican Congressman from Florida’s 13th District (https://davidjolly.com/) Jeff Clements, constitutional Lawyer and CEO of American Promise, sponsors of the “For Our Freedom Amendment” (https://americanpromise.net/) Ray La Raja, professor of political science at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and co-author of “Campaign Finance and Political polarization: When Purists Prevail” (https://www.fulcrum.org/concern/monographs/h702q709t) Rene LeBeau, Democracy Voucher Program Manager for the Seattle Ethics and Elections Commission (https://seattle.gov/democracyvoucher) Alan Durning, CEO of Sightline Institute (https://www.sightline.org/)

Do Jury Trials Work the Way We Want Them To? Sep 16, 2024

A trial by jury is an important American right, enshrined in the 6th and 7th amendments of the constitution. But do jury trials work the way we want them to? Not all countries use citizen juries in their justice systems, and the ones that do generally don't give them quite as much power as America does. But juries are also becoming rare in the United States. Only 2% of criminal trials ever make it in front of a jury because prosecutors pressure defendants to take plea deals as a faster, cheaper alternative to trial. And most of us dread getting called to serve on a jury. Should America continue to lean away from juries, or press to make them more present in our system - and perhaps more just? In this podcast episode, we talk to someone who’s served on a jury, and someone who was wrongfully convicted by one. We'll also talk to experts about where juries fall short and what we can do about that. Guests: Kristen Cambell, CEO of Philanthropy for Active Civic Engagement (PACE) (https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-jury-duty-yes-duty-changed-my-life-riyzc/) Herman Lindsey, executive director of Witness to Innocence (https://www.witnesstoinnocence.org/single-post/herman-lindsey) James Binnall, lawyer and professor at California State University Long Beach, author of "Twenty Million Angry Men: The Case for Including Convicted Felons in Our Juries" (https://doi.org/10.1111/lapo.12015) Valerie Hans, law professor at Cornell University (https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4168115)

Funny or Offensive? Why It's So Hard to Draw the Line in Humor Sep 02, 2024

Why is it so hard to draw the line between what’s funny or offensive? We love to laugh and we prize a good sense of humor in ourselves and others. But the ancient Greeks – Aristotle and Plato – said humor was bad for society: they thought of it mainly as mockery and laughing was a loss of self-control. When you consider how quickly humor can go wrong in the hands of a bully or an edgy standup routine, you have to wonder - were the Greek philosophers right? In this podcast episode we meet a biracial standup comic who jokes often about race and thinks comedians should be able to joke about anything, so long as it’s funny, original and authentic to their experiences. We also consider the difference between racist humor and humor that’s racially insensitive or “merely racial” with a leading expert on the ethics of racial humor. And then we ask what it would take to maximize the benefits of humor in every day interactions, where you could argue the goals and rules are different. Podcast Guests: Isak Allen, Los Angeles-based standup comedian (https://www.drybarcomedy.com/isaka) Luvell Anderson, professor of philosophy at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Mike Cundall, a professor of philosophy at North Carolina A&T State University, author of The Humor Hack, and founder of Mirth Management consulting. (https://www.mirthmanagement.co/)

The Changing Ways We Decide Who Gets into College and Why it Matters Aug 19, 2024

For a century, the ACT and SAT played a central role in filtering college applicants. Most colleges and universities stopped requiring standardized test scores during the pandemic; that change has turned into a permanent shift across higher education. A lot of people think that's for the better, particularly since the tests have long been shown to disadvantage students of color and those with fewer economic resources. But now a growing number of elite schools - including Harvard, MIT and Dartmouth - are reinstating the test requirement. Why are they struggling to make up their minds? Meanwhile, the Supreme Court outlawed another prominent filter elite schools have used to make admissions decisions - race. Now that test score requirements are in flux and affirmative action is illegal, how do we decide who gets into college? Guests: Emi Nietfeld, journalist and author of "Acceptance: A Memoir" Nicholas Lemann, professor at the Columbia School of Journalism and author of "The Big Test: The Secret History of the American Meritocracy" and "Higher Admissions: The Rise, Decline, and Return of Standardized Testing" Alix Coupet, former admissions officer at Stanford and the University of Chicago, currently working in private admissions counseling Patricia Gandara, professor at UCLA’s Graduate School of Education and a co-director of the Civil Rights Project at UCLA

Why We’re So Anxious About Retirement in America – And How We Can Fix It Aug 05, 2024

Most Americans are anxious about when – or even if – they’ll be able to retire. And we’re not wrong. Social Security is on shaky footing. Half of Americans on the cusp of retirement have no money saved for it. This isn’t how retirement in America was supposed to work. But 40 years ago, Congress shifted the US away from employer pensions and toward a do-it-yourself system based on 401K retirement saving plans. It’s not going well. In this episode we get to the bottom of why so many Americans are unable to retire comfortably and end up, instead, living in poverty or working well past age 70. And we’ll learn what we can do on an individual and national level to improve retirement in America. Podcast Guests: Teresa Ghilarducci, professor of economics at the New School for Social Research, author of Work, Retire, Repeat: The Uncertainty of Retirement in the New Economy (https://teresaghilarducci.org/) Aubrey Johnson, 24, recent college graduate Heather Sheffer, 45, self-employed Mike Cundall, 50, philosophy professor North Carolina A&T State University Jaye Crist, 63, printing business employee, artist @jayecrist on Instagram Penny Pennington Weeks, 58, retired from Oklahoma State University faculty at age 55, posts garden and retirement content @pennypenningtonweeks on Instagram Cami (last name withheld), 38, full-time nurse, divorced mother of four kids Maryann O’Connor, 67, owner of Kindred Woman Travelers (https://www.kindredwomentravelers.com/) Elaine Jarvie, 68, retired, RV traveler

American roads are dangerous. How can we make them safer? Jul 22, 2024

Compared to other wealthy nations, America has twice as many traffic deaths per capita. And in recent years, pedestrian and cyclist deaths have spiked. Experts say road design plays a big part in this. The most dangerous roads are “suburban arteries” that are often 5 or 6 lanes wide, with long distances between traffic lights where pedestrians can cross. On this episode of the podcast, we explore why American roads are designed almost exclusively for vehicles and what it would take to make them safer for people on foot and bicycle. Can streets allow good flow for vehicles, but still have bike lanes and safe crossing options for pedestrians? Cars these days are supercomputers on wheels – could technology solve this problem for us? Podcast Guests: Lizi Rahman, mother of Asif Rahman and member of Families for Safer Streets (https://www.familiesforsafestreets.org/) Angie Schmitt, author of “Right of Way: Race, Class, and the Silent Epidemic of Pedestrian Deaths in America” (https://usa.streetsblog.org/author/angie) Steve Morris, co-founder of the West Roxbury Safety Association (https://www.facebook.com/WestRoxburysafetyassociation/) John McElroy, journalist and president of Autoline (https://www.autoline.tv/)

Inside the Changing Role of Fathers in America Jul 08, 2024

What does it mean to be a father in 2024? In the US, the “primary breadwinner dad” is increasingly rare, while the "primary caregiver dad” is becoming more common. And dads are generally doing a lot more childcare and housework than their fathers and grandfathers did. But women still do twice as much housework as their husbands, so it’s not uncommon to see tempers flare online when fathers get praised for parenting while mothers don’t. How are American families navigating these changings? In this podcast episode, we talk with a working father who overcame some biased assumptions about household duties. We talk to a stay-at-home dad about the decision he and his wife made more than a decade ago to have him be the primary caregiver for their children. And then, a single father with full custody of his three young kids talks about what the experience and taught him about society’s assumptions about the needs of parents. Finally, a historian of American family life will explain how the division of duties we consider “traditional” is a relatively recent development. Podcast Guests: Clint Edwards, author of “No Idea What I’m Doing” dad blog and parenting books “Father-ish: Laugh-Out-Loud Tales From a Dad Trying Not to Ruin His Kids’ Lives” and “I’m Sorry... Love, Your Husband” (https://clintedwards.substack.com/) Shannon Carpenter, father and comedy writer, author of “The Ultimate Stay-at-Home Dad” (https://www.shannoncarpenterauthor.com/) Daniel Ortega, single dad with full custody of his three kids and founder of The Mindful Wolf (www.themindfulwolf.com) Stephanie Coontz, Director of Research and Public Education at the Council on Contemporary Families, Professor Emerita at Evergreen State College, former Woodrow Wilson Fellow, author of “The Way We Never Were - American Families and the Nostalgia Trap” (https://www.stephaniecoontz.com) Voices from the Council of Moms, hosted by The Lisa Show (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwfgWmzxxX046s1nNNo7HNa-LTIfguVnT)

Why America's Childcare Crisis is an Equation We Can't Seem to Balance Jun 24, 2024

More than two-thirds of children under the age of 6 in the U.S. live in a household where all available parents work. But in most communities, there’s a shortage of slots in childcare centers and home-based providers. Because of unreliable childcare, as many as 100,000 Americans are forced to stay home from work at least once a month, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's not to mention the cost, which eats up about 13 percent of an American family's income on average, sometimes rivaling what they pay for food, utilities, or even rent. If there's so much demand for childcare in America, why aren't entrepreneurs flocking to meet that demand? The bottom line is the numbers don't work. In this episode, we’re exploring why America’s childcare crisis is an equation we can’t seem to balance and what it means for families and communities, including those of us who don't need or want childcare. We’ll tackle the interesting history of childcare with a policy expert, get an inside look with a childcare provider owner in Virginia, and finally, we talk with a parent who pushed her community to do something different. Podcast Guests: Juanterria Pope-Browne, creator and owner of Kidz with Goals Unlimited, a daycare in Hopewell, Virginia (https://www.kidzwithgoals.com/) Elliot Haspel, senior fellow at Capita, author of Crawling Behind: America’s Childcare Crisis and How to Fix It (https://elliothaspel.com/) Lindsey Buegler, parent and accountant in Warren, Minnesota and former daycare board member (https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/a-minnesota-town-may-be-a-blueprint-for-how-to-fix-the-nations-childcare-crisis/)

Is Our Perception of Crime in America Accurate? Jun 10, 2024

Americans have a perplexing perception of crime. One in three Americans report watching, listening, or reading true crime on a weekly basis. But our fixation on crime goes deeper than entertainment. Both Republicans and Democrats consider violent crime an increasing problem. But most of us are safer today than we’ve ever been. Violent crime in America is down 50% since the 1990s. What’s driving the disconnect in our perception of crime? And what consequences does it have for our communities? Where might be a better place to direct our attention? On this podcast episode, we talk to a devoted fan of true crime who has also studied the effect it has on people. A leading research on crime and public perception in America explains how the 9/11 terror attacks fueled the disconnect in how safe Americans are and how safe they feel they are. We also speak with a survivor of intimate partner violence who created an organization to educate people about domestic and intimate partner violence, which pose a far greater threat to Americans than the crime we most fear. Podcast Guests: Amanda Vicary, Chair of the Psychology Department and professor at Illinois Wesleyan University (https://amandavicary.com/) John Roman, senior fellow in economics, justice, and society at NORC at the University of Chicago, director of the Center on Public Safety and Justice (https://substack.com/@johnkroman) Twahna P. Harris, domestic violence survivor and founder and executive director of The Butterfly Society (https://www.thebutterflysociety.org/)

Violence, Opioids, Loneliness, Obesity — The Pros and Cons of Treating Social Issues as Epidemics May 27, 2024

These days anything that's widespread might be called an "epidemic." Violence, obesity, opioids, even loneliness. But in the public health space, the label "epidemic" means something specific - a disease that's widespread and usually contagious. How does thinking about social issues as epidemics change the way we approach them? We'll explore the pros and cons with first responders on the front line of different epidemics. In this podcast episode, an ER doctor explains the cyclical, contagious nature of violence. A dietician considers the unintended consequences of making weight loss the focus of the obesity epidemic. A paramedic with 30 years of experience traces the evolution of the opioid overdose crisis in America and argues for empathy and harm reduction to save more lives. Finally, we consider America’s newest epidemic – loneliness – with the nation’s leading scientist on the harm caused by social isolation. In what ways does framing these issues as epidemics enable us to cure them? Podcast Guests: Rob Gore, MD, founder of the Kings Against Violence Initiative (KAVI), and author of “Treating Violence: An Emergency Room Doctor Takes on a Deadly American Epidemic” (https://kavibrooklyn.org/) Kirsten Morrisson, registered dietitian and certified Intuitive Eating counselor, host of Intuitive Bites podcast (https://theintuitiverd.com/podcast/) Peter Canning, paramedic, EMS coordinator at UCONN John Dempsey Hospital, and author of “Killing Season: A Paramedic's Dispatches from the Frontlines of the Opioid Epidemic” (https://www.petercanning.org/) Julianne Holt-Lunstad, professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University, director of the Social Connection & Health Lab, and lead scientist on the Surgeon General's 2023 report on Loneliness and Social Isolation (https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf)

What Does It Mean to Be White in America? May 13, 2024

Since 2020 — when George Floyd's murder was seen around the world and protests for racial justice swept the country — many Americans with white skin have begun to think explicitly about race and its consequences. What does it mean to be white in America? What’s it like to be not-white-enough? Or to not have your racial identity reflected on official government forms? How did white become the default against which all other skin colors are measured? In this podcast episode, we explore the nuance of what it means to be white in America with guests who fall along the spectrum of whiteness. We’ll hear one woman’s story of waking up to her whiteness and understanding how skin color matters in America. A leading historian of race in America explains how – and why – whiteness was invented. We’ll consider the complicated relationship people who identify as Hispanic or Latin American have long had with whiteness. And a multiracial mother will share insights on how to help children be thoughtful, informed and brave about race. Podcast Guests: Debby Irving, racial justice educator, author of “Waking Up White (and finding myself in the story of race)” (https://www.debbyirving.com/) Nell Irvin Painter, professor emerita of American History at Princeton, author of “The History of White People” and “I Just Keep Talking” (http://www.nellpainter.com/) Julie Dowling, professor of Sociology and Latin American/Latino Studies, University of Illinois, Chicago, author of “Mexican Americans and the Question of Race” Melissa Giraud, founder and co-director of Embrace Race (https://www.embracerace.org/)

Moments that Challenged the Top of Mind Team to Stay Curious Apr 29, 2024

In this podcast episode, Julie and the other members of the Top of Mind team reflect on moments from previous episodes that challenged them to stay curious and stick with uncomfortable perspectives instead of dismissing them or putting up defenses. As we put podcast episodes together, we have these “Stick With It” moments all the time – and we hope you do, too, because they’ve led us to new empathy, deeper relationships, and clarity about our own views. One of our producers grapples with the grading system she grew up with. Another reconsiders her thinking on the impact of social media use on teen mental health. We'll also explore a complicated relationship with unions, find empathy in the medication for mental health debate, and reassess the language we use when talking about homelessness. We’d love to hear your “Stick With It” moments. Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu. We’re also on social media @topofmindpod. Podcast Guests: Top of Mind producers Alayna Beck, Vanessa Goodman, Amber Mortensen, Samuel Benson, and James Hoopes. Find links below to all of the Top of Mind episodes referenced in this episode. Many Students Lack Motivation to Learn. What Can We do?: https://www.byuradio.org/top-of-mind-many-students-lack-motivation-to-learn-what-can-we-do Teen Mental Health in America is Getting Worse. What Can We Do About It?: https://www.byuradio.org/top-of-mind-teen-mental-health-in-america-is-getting-worse-what-can-we-do An Explosion of Union Activity in the US and What it Means: https://www.byuradio.org/top-of-mind-an-explosion-of-union-activity-in-the-us-and-what-it-means Ending Homelessness in America Feels Impossible. Is It?: https://www.byuradio.org/top-of-mind-ending-homelessness-in-america-feels-impossible-is-it

Avoiding the Outrage Trap, featuring David Beckemeyer of “Outrage Overload” Apr 22, 2024

Our “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with a story from David Beckemeyer, host of the podcast “Outrage Overload.” Beckemeyer used to spend his time engaging in social media fights. When his son, who also often indulged in heated online discussions, decided to step away from social media, Beckemeyer was prompted to closely examine his own behavior, leading him to make a significant change and delve into why so many of us fall into the outrage trap. The Top of Mind podcast would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to lean into the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu. Podcast Guest: David Beckemeyer, host of the Outrage Overload podcast

Facing the Rising Flood Problem in America Apr 15, 2024

Floods are the most common of all weather-related disasters in America. They cause more damage and kill more people than any other type of severe weather. Flood risk is rising all over the country—rainstorms are more intense and flash floods are happening more frequently. The communities facing the greatest risk in the coming decades are disproportionately poor and Black. But here’s the thing: damage from flooding is the most preventable of all natural disasters: moving to higher ground is a proven solution to flood damage. But a lot of factors, like money, history and human nature, make relocation complicated. On this podcast episode, we explore why flooding is such a challenging problem and how cities are adapting. A climate scientist explains how warmer temperatures increase extreme flood risk (it’s the atmospheric sponge effect!) We’ll learn why America’s approach to preventing flooding has backfired and how Tulsa, Oklahoma has bucked the trend – going from one of the most flood prone cities in the country to one of the most flood resistant. And the mayor of an historic town settled by recently freed Black people will explain why relocating out of the flood zone isn’t a simple choice. Podcast Guests: Daniel Swain, climate scientist at UCLA and the National Center for Atmospheric Research, WeatherWest on YouTube Tim Palmer, author of “Seek Higher Ground: The Natural Solution to our Urgent Flooding Crisis” Joseph Kralicek, executive director, Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency Bobbie Jones, mayor of Princeville, North Carolina

Ending Homelessness in America Feels Impossible. Is It? Apr 08, 2024

There are more people homeless in America today than at any other time in the last 17 years. Those numbers might have gotten a lot worse during the pandemic were it not for millions of dollars in federal funds for emergency housing. That money’s all dried up now. In the early 2000s, many of these cities adopted “10-year plans to end homelessness,” buoyed by a push from the White House. But that hasn’t happened. Ending homelessness in America feels impossible. Is It? In this podcast episode, we talk to someone who experienced homelessness in Denver and now works to solve it. We also talk to the man leading successful efforts to solve homelessness in Houston, a researcher who's studied why we aren't building more housing, and a tech philanthropist in San Francisco with an innovative approach to the problem. Podcast Guests: Cuica Montoya, senior director of homelessness programs at the Colorado Village Collaborative Marc Eichenbaum, special assistant to the mayor for homelessness initiative in Houston Katherine Levine Einstein, professor of political science at Boston University Elizabeth Funk, founder and CEO of DignityMoves

Open, Partisan or Closed Primaries – The Quest to Fix Primary Elections Apr 01, 2024

Nearly a dozen states have active campaigns to move away from partisan or closed primaries, motivated by a frustration among many voters that the way parties choose nominees in high-stakes elections is broken. By the time most of us cast a ballot in a Presidential Primary, it feels like a pointless exercise: earlier states have already winnowed the field to a clear front-runner. No wonder turnout for primary elections is so low! But here’s the thing: In 2020, the majority of Congressional and state legislative seats in the US were decided in the primary; because voting districts have been gerrymandered to favor one party so heavily, whoever wins that party's primary sails to victory in the general. Why don't more of us vote in primaries? Does weakening the power of political parties to control who runs and who votes in a primary election improve turnout and engagement? In this episode of the Top of Mind podcast, we explore the origins of primary elections and variation between states. We speak with an incumbent politician who got “primaried” by a more extreme challenger; and a moderate candidate who’s struggled to win in a closed primary system. Then we talk to an activist for open primaries and ranked-choice voting to learn the limits of primary elections reform. Podcast Guests: Doug Goodman, founder of Nevadans for Election Reform Rob Boatright, professor of political science at Clark University Nick Bain, former member of the Mississippi State House of Representative Becky Edwards, former Utah state legislator and founder of Governing Group PAC

Teen Mental Health in America is Getting Worse. What Can We Do About It? Mar 25, 2024

Overall mental health among Americans - young and old - took a nose-dive during the pandemic. But the trend among teens has been worrisome for at least a decade now. Starting around 2012, suicide overtook homicide as a leading cause of death among 15-19 year-olds. In the most recent big survey of high schoolers the CDC does every few years, a quarter of students said they'd seriously considered suicide. Nearly half reported feeling persistently sad or hopeless. One thing is clear: Teen mental health in America is getting worse. What can we do about it? Let's look at three areas for possible intervention for teens in crisis. A lot of doctors and families recognize that medication is often an effective part of mental health treatment. But others worry that we're too quick to jump to prescription medications - particularly for teens. We'll tackle the role of sleep: two-thirds of American teens are chronically sleep-deprived. We'll look at the effects of social media, which seems like an obvious culprit - but outright banning it could actually make things worse for some teens. Podcast Guests: Brooke Siem, author of “May Cause Side Effects” Dr. Khadijah Booth Watkins, child and adolescent psychiatrist and associate director of the Clay Center for Young Health Minds at Massachusetts General Hospital Lisa L. Lewis, author of “The Sleep-Deprived Teen: Why Our Teenagers Are So Tired, and How Parents and Schools Can Help Them Thrive” Sarah Coyne, professor of human development at Brigham Young University

My Life Is Great. Why Am I Not Happy? A Personal Conversation with Life Reinvention Coach Karin Freeland Mar 18, 2024

Our “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with Karin Freeland, host of the podcast “Rock Your Reinvention” and author of the book “Grab Life By the Dreams.” Before Freeland was a life reinvention coach, she was a successful sales executive climbing the corporate ladder, buying designer bags and driving a Benz. And she was miserable. But she couldn’t bring herself to look at the real reasons why, until a series of deaths in the family. While in mourning, she was finally willing to openly and humbly consider why she was so unhappy with a life that included all the hallmarks of the American Dream – marriage, children, work and wealth. In this episode, Karin Freeland shares what she learned from that Stick With It moment and how it led to her new career as a life reinvention coach, author and podcaster. The Top of Mind podcast would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to lean into the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu. Podcast Guest: Karin Freeland, life reinvention coach, host of the podcast “Rock Your Reinvention,” author of “Grab Life By the Dreams”

Dealing with a Disappointing Diagnosis, featuring Carolyn Cohen of “Wellness While Walking” Mar 11, 2024

Our “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with a story from health coach Carolyn Cohen, host of the podcast “Wellness While Walking.” Cohen grew up with strict dietary rules that she eagerly rejected when she left home. In time, she and her children experienced health problems that caused Cohen to reconsider her approach to food and wellness. She embraced a healthier lifestyle and became a certified health coach to help others make small choices to improve their wellness. After all her hard work and careful attention to wellness, Cohen was shocked and demoralized to get a diagnosis of pre-diabetes. In this Stick With It episode of the podcast, Cohen shares how – after a period of heavy denial – she mustered the humility and curiosity to learn what changes she needed to make for her health. By leaning into the discomfort of that moment, she gained new insights that improved her wellness and inspired her to create her own podcast called “Wellness While Walking.” The Top of Mind podcast would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to lean into the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu. Podcast Guest: Carolyn Cohen, health coach and host of the Wellness While Walking podcast

Tipping Culture is Changing. Here’s What You Need to Know Mar 04, 2024

We’re being asked to tip more – and in more places – than ever before in America. And surveys show we’re annoyed and confused by “tipflation” and “tipcreep.” What are the rules in this new tipping culture? How much is expected when you’re ordering food at the counter and that screen pops up asking for a tip? What’s that money for? And is it okay not to tip in those cases? In this episode of Top of Mind, we’ll explain why tipping culture is changing in America and what it suggests about us, as a society. Because it’s not just about the money. It’s about how we value the people doing really personal things for us; people who are often strangers of a different social status. We’ll hear from both sides of the counter – a confused customer and a food service worker who’s spent her entire career working for tips. We’ll meet the owner of a pizza restaurant in Brooklyn who tried to eliminate tips and failed. And the researcher known as “America’s tipping expert” will explain the perfect storm that led to this tipping point and what to do next time you’re asked to tip. Podcast Guests: Matt Johnson, Top of Mind listener from Texas Jaime Wilson, behind-the-counter worker, food blogger and self-employed baker Mike Fadem, owner and founder of Ops and Leo, pizzerias in Brooklyn, New York and drummer for The Jealous Girlfriends Michael Lynn, professor of consumer behavior and services marketing at the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration

An Explosion of Union Activity in the US and What it Means Feb 26, 2024

The US is experiencing an unusual spike in union activity. Younger workers are organizing in workplaces that have not traditionally been unionized. Established unions are staging historic strikes and securing significant concessions from employers – including items beyond the traditional scope of labor negotiations. Public support for unions is at its highest level in nearly 60 years. So, organized labor is having a moment. Why? And what might it mean for the future of labor in America? In this podcast episode, we look at the role of income inequality, inflation, the pandemic and GenZ attitudes toward labor to explain this unique moment in union activity. We talk with labor organizers at Starbucks and Stanford to understand why young people are turning to unions to meet their needs. And we speak with a veteran labor leader and contract negotiator about how established unions are adapting to new kinds of demands from workers in this moment. We also consider the opportunity this moment offers for employees and employers in the US to embrace a more collaborative approach to work in America. One option we explore in-detail is the historic labor management partnership between Kaiser Permanente and its employee unions. Podcast Guests: Thomas Kochan, professor emeritus at the MIT Sloan School of Management and the Institute for Work and Employment Research. Amanda Rivera, Starbucks shift supervisor and labor organizer for Starbucks Workers United. Thom Chaffee, fourth year Ph.D. worker and bargaining committee representative for the Stanford Graduate Workers Union. Gaylan Prescott, director of District 12 for the United Steelworkers

Finding Empathy in the Abortion Debate with listener Heidi Thorpe Feb 19, 2024

Our “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with a story from one of our listeners, Heidi Thorpe. In 2022, she set out to better understand views that differ from her own on abortion and began reading the stories of women who’d chosen to end a pregnancy. Those stories took on new meaning when Thorpe found herself unintentionally pregnant and overwhelmed at the prospect of a fourth child. Finding empathy with those women was uncomfortable for Thorpe, but also led to a profound shift in how she thinks about the issue of abortion and what communities can do to support women facing unexpected – or unwanted – pregnancies. The Top of Mind podcast would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to lean into the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu. Podcast Guest: Heidi Thorpe is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a 3practices circle leader, and a Birthing From Within mentor.

Is Government Transparency Essential in a Democracy? Feb 12, 2024

Government transparency is a basic tenet of American democracy. But the US Constitution was drafted in total secrecy and the founders believed they couldn’t have done the job otherwise. When is openness best in a democracy, and when does the cost outweigh the benefit? In this podcast episode we hear the case for more openness from a citizen who used public records law to hold a state university accountable. A political historian explains how the founding fathers justified drafting the Constitution in secret and how that shaped the form of democracy the US has today. We also speak with elected legislators from three different states grappling with the best way to balance the financial and logistical challenges of making government records open to the public. The lawmakers also differ in how much of their own email and text communication should be open to the public. A political scientist who’s studied transparency in democracy describes how openness can empower special interest groups and make political gridlock worse. We discuss systemic solutions that could make government transparency work better for all Americans. Podcast Guests: Anne Mabry, citizen activist and retired professor of English at New Jersey City University Katlyn Carter, professor of history at Notre Dame, author of “Democracy in Darkness: Secrecy and Transparency in the Age of Revolutions” Washington State Representative Peter Abbarno Arizona State Senator John Kavanagh Arkansas Senate President Pro Tem Bart Hester Bruce Cain, professor of political science at Stanford University, author of “Democracy More or Less: America’s Political Reform Quandary”

How American Boys and Men Are Falling Behind — And What We Can Do to Help Them Feb 05, 2024

In the US, women and girls now outperform men and boys at every level of education. Boys are less likely to graduate from high school, enroll in college or finish college. Men are more likely to die by suicide, and they aren't participating in the labor market as much as they used to either. In the last forty years, American society has made concerted efforts to boost opportunities for women and girls. That job is not finished, so when we talk about gender inequality in America, it makes sense that the conversations tend to be about women. But American boys and men are falling behind. Have we accidentally overlooked their struggles? Today on Top of Mind, we're looking at a few of the issues facing modern men and boys, and how to help them. We talk to a program director working with boys of color in Baltimore, an economist who’s studied what it means for boys to be raised in single parent households at a record rate, an academic who’s been following these trends for years, and the founder of a nonprofit with an unusual approach to supporting men in their mental health struggles. Podcast Guests: Cameron Miles, founder and director of Mentoring Male Teens in the Hood in Baltimore Melissa Kearney, professor of economics at the University of Maryland and author of The Two-Parent Privilege: How the Decline in Marriage has Increased Inequality and Lowered Social Mobility, and What We Can Do About It Richard Reeves, president of the American Institute for Boys and Men and author of Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male is Struggling, Why it Matters, and What to Do About It Mark Meier, executive director of The Face It Foundation in Minneapolis

Many Students Lack Motivation to Learn. What Can We do? Jan 29, 2024

America’s students are struggling. Chronic absenteeism has doubled from pre-pandemic numbers. Districts are implementing grading floors to soften the sting of failure. Grade inflation is widespread. Many students seem to have lost the motivation to learn, and traditional systems of grading and ranking aren’t helping. What’s wrong with the A-F grading system? Should school just do away with grades entirely? What interventions work to get kids back in classrooms more consistently? In this podcast episode, a high school teacher shares how she changed grading in her classroom to better engage her students and an historian explains why grades are a “can’t live with ‘em can’t live without ‘em” conundrum. We also speak with a coach who works with students that struggle with motivation because they lack executive function skills and a leading expert on chronic absenteeism explains why so many kids are missing school these days and what we can do about it. Guests: Sarah Schopfer, 11th and 12th grade English teacher, Colfax High School Jack Schneider, professor of education and director of the Center for Education Policy at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, co-author of “Off the Mark: How Grades, Ratings and Rankings Undermine Learning But Don’t Have To” Seth Perler, executive function, ADHD, and 2e coach Hedy Chang, founder and executive director of Attendance Works

Understanding Political News Bias with Isaac Saul, founder of Tangle Jan 22, 2024

Our “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with journalist Isaac Saul, founder of the daily political newsletter Tangle. He talks about why it’s so hard to find unbiased political news and what news consumers can do about it. He also shares a “Stick With It” story about moderating a conversation between two guests with opposing views on the Israel/Hamas conflict that got so heated one of the guests demanded Tangle not release the interview. What happened next strengthened Saul’s belief in the power of tough conversations. Tangle, started by Saul in 2019 to tackle political news bias, covers one big news story every day, with a summary of the facts and a collection of perspectives from across the political spectrum. Saul was inspired to create it after growing frustrated by the pressure media outlets face to adopt an ideological slant so they get more clicks and web traffic. The Top of Mind podcast would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to lean into the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu." Podcast Guest: Isaac Saul, founder of Tangle

Is Perspective-Taking the Key to Overcoming Polarization? Jan 15, 2024

Why is it so hard to see things from a perspective other than our own? Our perspectives are shaped by our life experiences and our biology – some people are color-blind, for example. As a result of these differences, no two people see the world in exactly the same way. And yet, when it comes to differences of opinion on issues that we really care about, we are quick to demand that everyone else see things the way we do. Psychologists call the ability to see from a different vantage point “perspective taking.” Is perspective-taking the key to overcoming polarization in society? In this podcast episode, we learn how our brains are wired to process information differently – some think in words, others pictures. We get practical tips on how to practice perspective-taking during difficult conversations. And, we learn about the potential pitfalls of focusing only on developing empathy to bridge differences, because some empathy leads to helping, some does not. Podcast Guests: Temple Grandin, professor of animal science at Colorado State University and author of “Visual Thinking: The Hidden Gifts of People who Think in Pictures, Patterns and Abstractions,” “Different Kinds of Minds” and “Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism” Monica Guzman, senior fellow at Braver Angels, host of A Braver Way podcast, and author of “I Never Thought of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times” Alison Jane Martingano, professor of psychology at University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, empathy researcher, host of “Psychology and Stuff” podcast

An Inside Look at Perspectives that Challenged the Top of Mind Team this Season Dec 11, 2023

We’ve spent the last several months on Top of Mind assessing the assumptions that drive our decisions. And we hope you’ve had a few “Stick With It Moments” as you’ve heard a perspective that challenged you, but you chose to stay open and curious – and keep listening! And hopefully that’s been good practice for “sticking with it” when you encounter challenging perspectives in your daily life. Because leaning into that discomfort leads to new empathy, more clarity on complicated issues, and a better ability to advocate for the things you really care about. While we’re producing the podcast, we have Stick With It moments, too. So in this podcast episode to wrap up Season 4, our host Julie Rose talks with the Top of Mind team about moments that challenged them in recent episodes about adoption, end-of-life decisions, immigration, police reform and political disagreement. Have you had a Stick With It moment listening to an episode of Top of Mind? We’d love to hear it. Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu. Podcast Guests: Top of Mind producers Samuel Benson, Alayna Beck, Vanessa Goodman, Amber Mortensen, and James Hoopes.

How Native Americans are Reclaiming Their Narrative Dec 04, 2023

More than three-quarters of Americans say they know little to nothing about Native Americans. Nearly the same percentage also say they rarely or never encounter any kind of information about Native peoples. What Americans DO know about Native Americans likely comes from inaccurate history lessons that keep tribes situated in the past. Or maybe from the antiquated characterizations in Hollywood films and TV shows. But a new wave of research, activism, and representation is changing the conversation; Native Americans are reclaiming their narrative. So today, what assumptions do non-Native people in America have about Native Americans, past and present? In this episode of the podcast, we talk to a former teacher and curriculum designer about bringing contemporary Native American history into the classroom through the arts, a researcher and media consultant about the consequences of invisibility, a reconciliation advisor about healing from appropriation, and a former elected tribal leader about the importance of strengthening Tribal sovereignty. Podcast Guests: Brenda Beyal, program facilitator of BYU ARTS Partnership Native American Curriculum Initiative Crystal Echo Hawk, president, CEO, and founder of IllumiNative; co-leader of the Reclaiming Narrative Truth project Adrienne Benjamin, multifaceted artist, educator, and reconciliation advisor to companies including Minnetonka Wayne Ducheneaux, founding and former executive director of the Native Governance Center and former Cheyenne River Sioux tribal council member

Immigration and America's Labor Shortage – Are Guestworkers the Solution? Nov 27, 2023

America is aging and many industries say they need more immigrant workers to do lower-skilled jobs Americans don’t want. Are they right? If so, how should we be looking at immigration and America’s labor shortage to find those solutions? And if immigration is not the answer, how will we fill the growing number of open positions in industries like healthcare and construction? In this episode of the podcast, we’re reframing the debate about immigration, with a closer look at short-term migration. We tend to think of immigration as being exclusively a permanent thing, but development economist Lant Pritchett says most immigration is intended to be rotational. Could immigration work better for America – and for the people who want to come here – if we significantly expand guestworker programs? We explore the history of guestworkers in the US, speak to someone who’s worked in America on an H-2A farmworker visa and consider the risks of expanding that program without significant reform. We hear about the need for better enforcement of existing immigration laws and border security. And we consider a proposal to meet America’s labor needs without more immigration. Podcast Guests: Bill Lowe, CEO of Chicago Methodist Senior Services Lant Pritchett, visiting professor at the London School of Economics, co-founder of Labor Mobility Partnerships Rebekah Smith, co-founder and executive director of Labor Mobility Partnerships Joe Martinez, co-founder and executive director of CIERTO Global Hector Benjamin Xoc Xar, former H2A visa worker from Guatemala Oren Cass, executive director of American Compass, author of "Once and Future Worker: A Vision for the Renewal of Work in America"

The Hidden Cost of Fines and Fees Nov 20, 2023

Fines and fees have become the default way we punish people in America; deterrence is the ultimate goal, but do fines actually deter bad behavior? Often the consequences of fines and fees are not felt equally, because what’s expensive to you might be pocket change to me. Still, the overdue book or speeding ticket costs the same for both of us. In this podcast episode, we interview a library advocate and former library director who successfully eliminated fines at his library. We also share the story of a man who struggled with traffic fines which led to 15 years of license suspensions. A former judge and advocate for reforming fines and fees shares how her organization is aiming to reduce the negative consequences of monetary penalties. And a behavioral economist who conducted one of the most famous experiments on fines discusses the many ways financial penalties can backfire, if we’re not careful. Podcast Guests: Peter Bromberg, associate director for EveryLibrary and former executive director of the Salt Lake City Public Library Fernando Martinez Jr., board member for the Texas Fair Defense Project Lisa Foster, co-executive director for the Fines and Fees Justice Center, former director of the Office for Access to Justice at the U.S. Department of Justice, and former California Supreme Court Judge Uri Gneezy, behavioral economist, professor in the Rady School of Manage at UC San Diego, and author of “Mixed Signals: How Incentives Really Work”

Stick With It Stories: Monica Guzman of Braver Angels on the Power of Curiosity to Bridge Divides Nov 13, 2023

Our “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with Monica Guzman, senior fellow at Braver Angels, host of A Braver Way podcast and author of “I Never Thought of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times.” Guzman (a liberal) describes how countless political conversations with her parents (who voted for Trump twice) helped her understand the power of curiosity to bridge differences and reduce polarization. In this podcast conversation, Monica Guzman shares practical tips, starting with asking ourselves “What am I missing?” when we encounter a perspective that challenges us. “Certainty is the arch-villain of curiosity,” says Guzman. “Curiosity gets sparked at the gap between what you know and what you want to know. Asking ‘What am I missing?’ acknowledges the fact that in most cases you are probably missing something. So it gets your mind to get curious about the gaps that it’s refusing to see.” Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to lean into the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

Stick With It Stories: Monica Packer of "About Progress" on Coping With Criticism That Feels Personal Nov 06, 2023

Our “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with Monica Packer, a personal growth coach and host of the popular About Progress podcast and Instagram community @aboutprogress. Packer’s professional and personal focus is choosing progress over the paralysis of perfectionism. Starting a blog and podcast were part of Packer’s personal commitment to trying new things. But it also opened her up to criticism that felt personal. She talks about choosing to lean into the opportunity to better understand a rejection from someone she respected. Over the course of many emails and one memorable phone conversation, Packer says she realized that while her critic had been making stereotypical assumptions about her, she was doing much the same thing toward him. Sticking with the discomfort of those conversations helped her understand the criticism was not as personal as she’d initially thought, and gave her confidence to continue being vulnerable on the podcast. Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to lean into the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

We Don't Agree on America's Founding Story. Do We Need To? Oct 30, 2023

Americans struggle to agree on even the most basic parts of America’s founding story. Some say it was divine intervention. Others, a scheme to profit off slavery, or simply a pursuit of freedom. Can we ever really agree on national narrative? Do we even need to? People are complicated and so is history. But when it comes to national narratives and founding stories, we tend to assume only one story can be right - and it's the version that most aligns with our own feelings about America. Simplicity might not be necessary, though. Can a founding story be complicated and contradictory and still do its job? In this podcast episode, a professor of classics recounts how the myth of Romulus and Remus laid a narrative foundation for the rise of the Roman empire. A history scholar explores America’s unique need for a founding story and traces the contributions of George Bancroft, William Gilmore Simms and Frederick Douglass. And a history curriculum designer encourages us to think differently about teaching American history and the nation’s narrative. Podcast Guests: Peter Meineck, Professor of Classics in the Modern World at New York University Colin Woodard, Director of the Nationhood Lab at the Pell Center at Salve Regina University, and author of “Union: The Struggle to Forage the Story of the United States” Abby Reisman, Associate Professor of Teacher Education at the University of Pennsylvania

Who Owns Our Cultural Heritage? — Museums, Repatriation, and Appropriation Oct 23, 2023

Who should decide how the stories and artifacts of a cultural heritage are shared with the world? For a long time, the assumption has been that as long as culture’s stories are told, it doesn’t matter who’s telling them. But who would you trust to tell your story? Museums of human civilization and culture are at the center of this conversation. Some are returning antiquities taken by colonial force. Others are consulting with indigenous communities to reframe the stories exhibits tell. But what’s lost when museum’s make the question “Who owns this cultural artifact?” their primary focus? In this episode of the podcast, we visit the famed Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford to understand how 19th century ideas of white European superiority are perpetuated in modern museums. We speak with a prominent skeptic of repatriation who believes it undermines the power of museums to help us understand history and our place in it. We also hear a story of spiritual healing prompted by the return of Native American items by a small museum in Massachusetts. And then we make the issue modern and personal with a conversation about what cultural appropriation looks like in daily life and how we can appreciate, rather than appropriate. Podcast Guests: Marenka Thompson-Odlum, PhD, Research Curator, Pitt Rivers Museum at the University of Oxford Tiffany Jenkins, journalist and author of “Keeping Their Marbles: How the Treasures of the Past Ended Up in Museums and Why They Should Stay There” Ann E. Meilus Esq., President of the Barre Museum Association Manny Iron Hawk, member of the Lakota Nation; Spokesperson for HAWK (Heartbeat at Wounded Knee) 1890 Survivor Descendants society Renee Iron Hawk, member of the Lakota Nation; Secretary for HAWK 1890 Survivor Descendants society Mia Moody-Ramirez, PhD Chair of Journalism, Public Relations & New Media, Baylor University College of Arts & Sciences

Why Do We Insist on Proper English — and What Does That Say About Us? Oct 16, 2023

What's that one thing about how people speak English that gets on your nerves? When people say “like” a lot? Or say “literally” when they mean “figuratively”? We all have language pet peeves, and we may even be willing to admit that we judge people who break the rules. After all, how we talk matters. Why do we insist on proper English — and what does that say about us? In this episode of the podcast, we speak with an English professor and College Writing Center director about the experience of code-switching and how she learned to respect "Black language" as something much more than slang. Then, a sociolinguist explains the constantly changing nature of the English language and why “filler words” like “um” and “like” have a role to play. And a speech expert highlights the role listeners play when communication breaks down and offers tips for better understanding those who speak English differently. Podcast Guests: Wonderful Faison, Ph.D., professor of English and head of Writing, Rhetoric, and Research Services at Jackston State University Valerie Fridland, Ph.D., professor of Linguistics at the University of Nevada Reno and author of "Like, Literally, Dude: Arguing for the Good in Bad English" Melissa Baese-Berk, Ph.D., professor of Linguistics at the University of Chicago and director of the Speech Perception and Production Lab.

Stick With It Stories: Utah Governor Spencer Cox Learns to Disagree Better Oct 09, 2023

Our “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with several stories from Utah Governor Spencer Cox about staying open and curious during intense political disagreements. As the new chair of the National Governors Association, Cox has made “Disagree Better” his signature initiative for the year. In this podcast episode, the Republican Governor of Utah explains how engaging with political opponents (including President Joe Biden) in a civil manner has led to better outcomes for his state. He also shares the story of a time when he fell short and went viral for calling members of Congress “imbeciles.” It got him a lot of praise supporters, but Cox quickly apologized and committed to do better. The “Disagree Better” initiative aims to use the unique influence of state governors to encourage healthier approaches to conflict in American politics and public life. Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to lean into the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

Stick With It Stories: Finding Empathy in Doctrinal Disagreement Sep 30, 2023

Our “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with a story about finding empathy in a doctrinal disagreement. McArthur Krishna is passionate about the doctrine of Heavenly Mother in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, because it fills her with joy and helps her to understand her own divine purpose. But her public speaking and writing on the topic have been met with intense criticism by some members of her faith. Her Stick With It story explores the moment when she realized “Oh, I’m part of the problem because I’m being dismissive.” When she got curious about the reasons others in her faith view Heavenly Mother differently, she found new empathy and clarity. Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to lean into the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

Public Education is in Crisis. Are Elected School Boards the Problem? Sep 25, 2023

Ninety percent of America's kids go to public schools. But public education in America is in crisis, with test scores in every subject at their lowest point in decades. State and federal regulations have a say in what happens in schools, but most critical decisions are left to local school boards. Are elected school boards the root of the problem - or the key to a solution? Funding, facilities, busing, discipline policies, how teachers are placed in the district, and which curricula they use - all overseen by some 15,000 school boards chosen through local elections. But board members generally aren't required to have specific educational expertise - or even kids in the public school system. We are committed to democracy in this country and generally assume that electing people to make important decisions is best. How well is that working out for us when it comes to education? In this podcast episode we speak with a parent who helped recall school board members in San Francisco. We hear what it’s like to be a school board member right now and how the pandemic changed the job. And we’ll consider how the US system of selecting school boards during off-cycle elections often fails to hold boards accountable for student outcomes. Podcast Guests: Meredith Dodson, Executive Director of the San Francisco Parent Coalition Carrie Douglass, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of School Board Partners and School Board Member in Bend-La Pine, Oregon Ethan Ashley, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of School Board Partners and School Board Member on the Orleans Parish School Board, New Orleans Vladimir Kogan, professor of political science and public affairs at Ohio State University and author of the upcoming book No Adult Left Behind **This episode is part of Season 4 on Top of Mind: Assessing Assumptions. Could the systems we've built to keep our communities safe and thriving work better if we weren't so set in our ways?

Owning a Home is the American Dream. At What Cost? Sep 18, 2023

Owning a home is the American Dream. It's the ultimate symbol of a successful adulthood and the best way to build wealth in this country. Why should you pay rent to someone else when you can build equity for yourself, right? Not all countries prioritize buying a house, though; take Germany, where renting is much more common. How has the decision to prioritize homeownership in the US shaped our communities, for better or worse? And is that wealth-building mechanism really accessible to everyone who works hard and plays their cards right? Podcast Guests: Kelly Phillips Erb, Philadelphia-based tax lawyer and Forbes columnist aka “The Tax Girl” Feli from Germany, YouTuber and podcaster from Munich, Germany Lisa Rice, President and CEO of the National Fair Housing Alliance Jenny Schuetz, Senior Fellow at Brookings Metro, author of “Fixer-Upper: How to Repair America’s Broken Housing Systems” **This episode is part of Season 4 on Top of Mind: Assessing Assumptions. Could the systems we've built to keep our communities safe and thriving work better if we weren't so set in our ways?

Are All Medical Treatments Safe and Effective? Sep 11, 2023

People often assume that medical treatments prescribed by doctors and covered by insurance are safe and effective. After all, there’s a whole government agency – the Food and Drug Administration – to ensure that very thing. But most medical drugs and devices available in the U.S. were approved by the FDA through an expedited pathway that sped up the review or required less clinical trial evidence. In this episode of the podcast, we speak with a former FDA attorney about the debate over whether the FDA should prioritize safety and effectiveness or swift access to medical innovation. We hear from a mother whose daughter urgently needed an individualized treatment only available in Italy, as well as the Right to Try advocate who assisted her. And an ER doctor explains why it’s a problem that many drugs commonly prescribed to women were only been tested on men before being approved. Podcast Guests: Daniel G. Aaron, MD, JD, professor of law at the University of Utah’s SJ Quinney College of Law, former assistant chief counsel at the FDA Kendra Riley, mother “Right to Try” advocate Naomi Lopez, Senior Fellow at the Goldwater Institute Alyson McGregor, MD, Professor of Emergency Medicine at the University of South Carolina’s School of Medicine Greenville, author of “Sex Matters” and “Why Women Aren’t Winning at Health (but can)” **This episode is part of Season 4 on Top of Mind: Assessing Assumptions. Could the systems we've built to keep our communities safe and thriving work better if we weren't so set in our ways?

Stick With It Stories: How “Ye Gods!” Podcast Host Scott Carter Became a Standup Comic Sep 04, 2023

Our “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with playwright and producer Scott Carter. He was the long-time executive producer of “Real Time with Bill Maher” on HBO and is currently producing “Love & Respect with Killer Mike” on PBS. Carter is also the host of a new podcast called “Ye Gods!” where he talks with artists, actors, journalists and other public figures about the beliefs that shape their lives. In this “Stick With It” conversation, Scott Carter shares the strategies that helped him overcome fear and discomfort while becoming a standup comic. Similar strategies can help anyone learning to stay open and curious when confronted with challenging situations or perspectives. Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to lean into the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

Stick With It Stories: A Tech Entrepreneur Makes a Viral Mistake Aug 28, 2023

Our “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with Milan Kordestani – tech entrepreneur and author of “I’m Just Saying: A Guide to Maintaining Civil Discourse in an Increasingly Divided World.” Kordestani was already preaching the importance of civil discourse when he tweeted something during the pandemic that went viral and caused him to realize he’d fallen short. He tweeted an apology and recommitted himself to approaching difficult topics with humility and curiosity. “Civil discourse doesn’t always mean agreeing or feeling comfortable,” says Kordestani. His new book, “I’m Just Saying” is a guidebook for learning to lean into the discomfort of challenging topics. Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to lean into the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

Do Traffic Stops Contribute to Public Safety? Aug 21, 2023

Getting pulled over is the most common encounter Americans have with police, but how much do traffic stops really contribute to public safety? On a typical day, more than 50,000 of us see those flashing lights in our rearview, so we generally assume that enforcing traffic laws is an essential part of policing and public safety. Do traffic stops contribute to public safety as much as we expect? It’s clear the effects are not equal: across the nation, drivers of color are much more likely to get pulled over, and a troubling number of incidents where Black men are killed by police, start with a traffic stop. In this podcast episode, we’ll hear perspectives from both sides of the car window and explore how traffic enforcement could better ensure safety for all. Podcast Guests: Alexander Landau, founder and Director of Community Relations for Denver Justice Project. Valerie Castile, mother of Philando Castile and President of the Philando Castile Relief Foundation. Officer Mark Ross, St. Paul police officer and President of the St. Paul Police Federation. Dr. Thaddeus Johnson, Professor of Criminal Justice and Criminology at Georgia State University, Senior Fellow at the Council on Criminal Justice, and former Memphis police officer. **This episode is part of Season 4 on Top of Mind: Assessing Assumptions. Could the systems we've built to keep our communities safe and thriving work better if we weren't so set in our ways?

Adoption from the Adoptee Perspective: How Can We Do Better? Aug 14, 2023

We tend to view adoption in America as a win-win situation: a child in crisis is placed with new, stable parents who want to build a family. Everyone is finally in a position to thrive. That narrative tends to be fairytale-like. And it doesn’t resonate with many adoptees. In this episode, we hear adoptee perspectives on adoption and how we – as a society – can do better. We talk to a domestic infant adoptee from the baby scoop era, a person adopted out of the foster care system, and an international, transracial adoptee. And what we've come to find is that no matter when or how adoptions happen, assumptions about what's best can miss the mark. How can we do better by those impacted by the adoption process and create a system that enables children and families to thrive? Podcast Guests: Julie Ryan McGue, author of Twice a Daughter Jamerika Haynes-Lewis, founder of Clever Jam Communications Astrid Castro, founder and CEO of adoption Mosaic **This episode is part of Season 4 on Top of Mind: Assessing Assumptions. Could the systems we've built to keep our communities safe and thriving work better if we weren't so set in our ways?

When Living Longer Conflicts With Dying Well Aug 07, 2023

Dying is inevitable. But medical advancements have made it possible to cheat death in many instances that would have been quickly fatal not so long ago. So it’s become easier to avoid thinking about death and default toward saying “yes” to whatever medical intervention will extend our lives. But when does living longer conflict with dying well? In this podcast episode we’re assessing the common assumption that we can extend life at all costs and still have a “good death” when the time comes. A hospital physician explains the complicated financial and emotional incentives that lead doctors and patients do too many tests, prescriptions and procedures that ultimately do more harm than good. An ICU doctor describes the risks of relying on a “living will” to guarantee a “good death” and what to do instead. If you’ve spent a life saying “yes,” by default, to everything medicine has to offer, it’s traumatic – and not at all straightforward – to know when to start saying “no.” We also hear how a man with terminal cancer navigated end-of-life decisions and what it took for his caregivers to deliver on his wishes for a good death in hospice. Podcast Guests: David Oliver (died 2015), retired gerontology professor, University of Missouri, co-creator of “Exit Strategy” video series Debra Parker Oliver, professor of hospice and palliative care research, Washington University St. Louis, co-creator of “Exit Strategy” video series, author of “Legacies from the Living Room: A Love-Grief Equation.” Christopher Moriates, MD, Assistant Dean for Health Care Value in the Department of Medical Education, Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin Samuel Morris Brown, MD, ICU physician and vice president for research at Intermountain Health; professor of medicine, University of Utah; author of “Through the Valley of Shadows: Living Wills, Intensive Care, and Making Medicine Human”

Stick With It Stories: Top of Mind Episodes That Challenged Us Jun 19, 2023

We’re wrapping up Season 3 of Top of Mind “Finding Fairness” with a look at some of the Stick With It moments it delivered for our team. One of our goals for each episode is to find perspectives that will challenge us to examine our own views more closely. Often that’s uncomfortable, but if we stick with that discomfort, it can lead to finding new empathy or greater clarity. In this podcast episode, Julie and other members of the Top of Mind team reflect on episodes during Season 3 that challenged them to examine their own views and behaviors more closely around topics including prison reform, pollution, gun violence, healthcare, and free speech. Did you have a Stick With It moment listening to an episode of Top of Mind’s Season 3 about “Finding Fairness?” We’d love to hear it. Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu. Podcast Guests: Top of Mind producers Kimberly Beck, Cole Cummings, Vanessa Goodman, James Hoopes, and Madeleine McKenzie

Stick With It Stories: Founder of The Period Project Takes on Menstruation Misconceptions Jun 12, 2023

Our “Stick With It” conversation series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with The Period Project founder Emily Bell McCormick’s story of realizing some common misunderstandings that prevented male legislators from taking menstrual public health policy needs seriously. Once she took the time to really listen to the concerns lawmakers had passing a law to make period products available for free in public schools and state buildings, she was better able to address their misconceptions and get the law passed. Podcast Guest: Emily Bell McCormick, founder of The Policy Project (Teen Health Centers and The Period Project) Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to stick with the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

Stick With It Stories: Greg Jackson Faces Regional Accents on 'History That Doesn't Suck” Podcast Jun 05, 2023

Our “Stick With It” conversation series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with historian Greg Jackson’s story of committing to get the regional accents right on his podcast “History That Doesn’t Suck.” A few years ago, his audience had grown so large that he was immune to most listener criticism. But a message from “Lucy in Tennessee” about the Southern accent Jackson affected in his storyteller cut through the noise. Jackson chose to stick with the discomfort of that criticism and step up his accent game. His podcast is better for it. Podcast Guest: Greg Jackson, host of “History That Doesn’t Suck” podcast, professor at Utah Valley University Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to stick with the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Free Expression May 29, 2023

The right to free speech is considered a cornerstone of American democracy, but it can also be used to inflict harm. In this era of social media and polarized politics, we are constantly weighing the pros and cons of free expression. Is being offended by a statement the same as being harmed by it? Where should we draw the line between protecting one’s right to speak freely and ensuring the well-being of others? In this podcast episode, a reformed white supremacist explains why he turned to hate speech and how he's trying to make amends for the harm he caused. A legal expert debunks common myths about the First Amendment right to free speech and explains why universities and K-12 schools struggle to balance that right with the need to keep students safe. A newspaper opinion editor shares insights on learning to disagree respectfully and an advocate for civility in public discourse explains how to foster productive free expression in our communities. Podcast guests: Tony McAleer, reformed white supremacist, co-founder of Life After Hate, and author of “A Cure for Hate: A Former White Supremacist’s Journey from Violent Extremism to Radical Compassion” Danielle Weatherby, free speech scholar and professor of law, University of Arkansas Amelia Robinson, Opinion and Engagement Editor for the Columbus Dispatch David Plazas, Opinion and Engagement Director for the USA TODAY Network Tennessee, director of Civility Tennessee for The Tennessean **This episode is part of Season 3 on Top of Mind: Finding Fairness. From health and immigration to prisons and pot, how can we get more peace and prosperity for all?

How Can We Help More Kids Thrive in America? May 22, 2023

Children in America face economic, emotional and educational challenges that only worsened during the pandemic. They are the poorest age group in the country. America has the highest rate of children living in single parent households anywhere in the world. U.S. teens are in the midst of a mental health crisis marked by depression, anxiety and suicide. And the COVID-19 pandemic caused big learning gaps. How can we help more kids thrive in America? In this podcast episode, we’ll hear how a school in Iowa is training teenagers to be first responders for peers in emotional crisis. An MIT researcher urges us to focus less on what kids lost during the pandemic and lean into lessons that can make schools even better than before pandemic. Then, a leading researcher on child well-being explains why we need to give absent fathers more attention. We want all children in America to thrive and we know kids are amazingly resilient. How can we do better by them? Podcast Guests: Jen Schnormeier, Instructional coach at Gilbert High School, lead trainer for Teen Mental Health First Aid Justin Reich, professor of digital media at MIT, Director of the Teaching Systems Lab, host of the Teach Lab podcast, author of “Failure to Disrupt.” Ronald Mincy, professor of Social Policy and Social Work Practice, Columbia University, co-founder of the Future Families and Child Wellbeing Study **This episode is part of Season 3 on Top of Mind: Finding Fairness. From health and immigration to prisons and pot, how can we get more peace and prosperity for all?

Should Being a Bystander Be a Crime? May 15, 2023

We all like to think we’d help someone in danger, but too often people stand by because they’re afraid to intervene or assume someone else will do it. Should it be a crime to be a bystander? What if you don’t witness the harm, but you suspect it’s happening, and you’re in a position to intervene? Does failing to stop the abuse make you an enabler? In this week’s podcast episode, we explore the impact of people choosing to stand by or enable abuse. We learn about an effort to pass laws that would put people in jail if they fail to help. We also hear from a young man whose heroic intervention on a subway platform went viral, and we discover how to resist the urge to be a bystander and become a helper instead. Podcast Guests: Aya Hibben, undergradute student in political science and pre-law, University of Utah, Research Assistant for The Bystander Initiative Amos Guiora, professor of law, Founder of The Bystander Initiative, S.J. Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah Bryce Demopoulos, pre-med student at Cornell University, viral helper Elizabeth Svoboda, Author of “What Makes a Hero: The Surprising Science of Selflessness” and “The Life Heroic: How to Unleash Your Most Amazing Self” **This episode is part of Season 3 on Top of Mind: Finding Fairness. From health and immigration to prisons and pot, how can we get more peace and prosperity for all?

Stick With It Stories: Diversity Advocate Susan Madsen Gains New Empathy May 08, 2023

Our “Stick With It” conversation series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with diversity advocate Susan Madsen’s story about being invited to attend an event and realizing she was the only white person in a room of several hundred people. Sticking with the discomfort she felt at the event gave her a window into how people of color must feel often in Madsen’s majority white community. That new measure of empathy served as an important motivation for Madsen in her research and advocacy with the Utah Women and Leadership Project. Podcast Guest: Susan Madsen, founding director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project, professor in the Huntsman School of Business, Utah State University. Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to stick with the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

Stick With It Stories: Podcast Host Corey Nathan Dares to Talk Religion With His Dad May 01, 2023

Our “Stick With It” conversation series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with Corey Nathan, host of “Talkin’ Politics and Religion Without Killin’ Each Other.” He tackles tough topics on his podcast all the time, but talking with his Jewish father about his decision to become a Christian seemed doomed to failure. It would have been easier to not talk about it, says Corey. But he and his dad made a different choice. Their relationship will never be the same. Podcast Guest: Corey Nathan, host of “Talkin’ Politics and Religion Without Killin’ Each Other” – part of the Democracy Group podcast network. Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to stick with the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

What Are the Effects of Marijuana Criminalization? Apr 24, 2023

A decade ago, there was not a single state where it was legal to use recreational marijuana. Today, nearly half of Americans live in states where pot is now legal. And many more are in states where medical marijuana has been legalized. But the federal government maintains that the drug has no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. How do we make sense of that? Our nation’s laws about marijuana are remarkably inconsistent. What are the effects of marijuana criminalization? And who gets caught in the middle? On this podcast episode, we talk to a man wrongly imprisoned for marijuana charges, a cannabis criminal justice reform advocate, a primary care doctor who’s been prescribing medical cannabis for years, and a drug historian to explains why the origin of our nation’s patchwork of marijuana laws. Podcast Guests: Donte West, Legacy Fellow at Last Prisoner Project Natalie Papillion, COO at Last Prisoner Project Peter Grinspoon, primary care doctor at Massachusetts General Hospital, instructor at Harvard Medical School, author of “Seeing Through the Smoke: A Cannabis Specialist Untangles the Truth about Marijuana” Emily Dufton, author of “Grass Roots: The Rise and Fall and Rise of Marijuana in America” **This episode is part of Season 3 on Top of Mind: Finding Fairness. From health and immigration to prisons and pot, how can we get more peace and prosperity for all?

Does the U.S. Have a Moral Obligation to Asylum Seekers? Apr 17, 2023

People all around the world look to the United States as a land of opportunity and safety. Every month, tens of thousands of people arrive at US border checkpoints and ask to be granted asylum. Over the last decade, the number of people showing up at the southern U.S. border seeking protection has increased five-fold to more than 200,000 every month. That huge increase has so overwhelmed the system that getting a final answer often takes years. There is bipartisan agreement that the asylum system is broken. How we fix the backlog, though, depends a lot on how we answer the question at the heart of today's podcast episode: what is our obligation to asylum seekers? Are we responsible for taking these individuals in? We’ll be hearing from two previous asylum seekers about the challenges of seeking asylum in the United States, a writer who had an eye-opening experience learning how America’s asylum process differs from other countries, and two former immigration judges with differing perspectives on how we should implement asylum law in the United States. As we hear each of these perspectives, we’ll consider this question: what do we owe people who are no longer safe or able to prosper in the countries where they happen to have been born? Podcast Guests: Razak Iyal, sought asylum in the U.S. in 2013, granted asylum in Canada in 2017 Joe Meno, Author of “Between Everything and Nothing: The Journey of Seidu Mohammed and Razak Iyal and the Quest for Asylum” Makaya Revell, CEO of Peace Promise Consulting, granted U.S. asylum in 2022 Andrew Arthur, resident fellow in law and policy at the Center for Immigration Studies, former immigration judge 2006-2014 (York, Pennsylvania) Paul Wickham Schmidt, adjunct professor of law at Georgetown University, former immigration judge 2003-2016 (Arlington, Virginia) **This episode is part of Season 3 on Top of Mind: Finding Fairness. From health and immigration to prisons and pot, how can we get more peace and prosperity for all?

Who is Responsible for Combating Pollution? Apr 10, 2023

When we drink the water, breathe the air and dig in the soil in our communities, we expect it to be safe. In the United States, we have regulatory agencies meant to protect us, but they sometimes fall short. Places populated by people of color or those in poverty are more likely to suffer the consequences. Who is responsible for combating pollution? How can we, as individuals, contribute to a cleaner environment? In this podcast episode, we explore various ways that Americans are combating pollution when our current systems fail. A concerned mother-turned-community-activist battles bureaucratic barriers to protect her family from PFAS pollution found in the Haw River, NC. A lifelong resident of Southwest Detroit fights pollution that is killing her majority Black community. An environmental policy maker advocates for corporations to take ownership of the pollution they create. A San Diego family offers an inside look at their zero waste lifestyle. Podcast Guests: Katie Bryant, co-founder of Clean Haw River Theresa Landrum, environmental justice activist in southwest Detroit Judith Enck, president of Beyond Plastics, former regional administrator for the EPA Fredrika Syren and James Harker, The Zero Waste Family, author of Zero Waste for Families **This episode is part of Season 3 on Top of Mind: Finding Fairness. From health and immigration to prisons and pot, how can we get more peace and prosperity for all?

Stick With It Stories: Sex Therapist Tammy Hill Faces a Crisis Apr 03, 2023

Our “Stick With It” conversation series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with sex therapist Tammy Hill’s story of feeling inspired to write a book that featured her own sexual experiences. She was so terrified at the thought – what would her parents think?! – that she put it off for seven years. Podcast Guest: Tammy Hill, LMFT, author of “Replenish: Creating Sexual Fulfillment in Marriage” (A Guide for LDS Couples), host of the “Live Your Why” podcast. Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to stick with the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

Stick With It Stories: Life Coach Jody Moore Gets Some Tough Feedback Mar 27, 2023

Our “Stick With It” conversation series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with life coach Jody Moore’s story about receiving some upsetting feedback from someone she respected. Rather than dismiss the criticism as misguided, Moore decided to explore it with an open heart and says she’s a better life coach because of it. Podcast Guest: Jody Moore, certified life coach, author of “Better Than Happy,” host of “Better Than Happy” podcast. Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to stick with the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

How Can We Reduce Gun Violence in America? Mar 20, 2023

About 45,000 Americans died from gun violence in 2022. A similar number died the year before. About half of those deaths are gun suicides. The other half are gun homicides. Mass shootings tend to capture the most attention and outrage, but they’re just a small fraction of the total number of gun deaths each year. How can we reduce gun violence in America? Reducing the number of firearms in the country might help, but significant gun control laws seem unlikely in today’s current political climate. In this podcast episode, we hear the stories of a violence interrupter, a suicide prevention and gun safety advocate, and a mass shooting researcher to help us feel more hopeful about America's gun violence problem. Podcast Guests: DeQuann Stanley, Outreach Supervisor at Save Our Streets, Crown Heights, Brooklyn Erin Dunkerly, trial attorney in California, advocate for suicide prevention Mark Follman, National Affairs Editor at Mother Jones. Author of TRIGGER POINTS: “Inside the Mission to Stop Mass Shootings in America” **This episode is part of Season 3 on Top of Mind: Finding Fairness. From health and immigration to prisons and pot, how can we get more peace and prosperity for all?

What Does Justice in Healthcare Look Like? Mar 13, 2023

Who deserves good health? It’s what we all want and shapes many of our decisions, but it’s not entirely within our control. The water we drink, air we breathe, and communities we live in all influence our health. How do we determine justice in healthcare? Some people have worse health because of factors beyond their control; is that fair? In this podcast episode, we’ll speak with a doctor who believes he owes his patients more than just competent care. We’ll consider how we decide, as a society, who gets priority when health resources are scarce, such as transplant organs. And we’ll hear a legal scholar’s take on what a system of “just health” looks like in the face of systemic inequality. How can we be sure that we’re not setting people up for shorter, sicker lives just because they have less power in society? Podcast Guests: Michael Stein, primary care physician, chair of Health Law, Policy & Management at Boston University School of Public Health, author of “Accidental Kindness” and “Me vs. Us” Debra Selkirk, liver transplant equality activist Jacob Appel, emergency room psychiatrist at Mount Sinai, professor of bioethics at Icahn School of Medicine, author of “Who Says You’re Dead?” Dayna Bowen Matthew, Dean and Harold H. Greene Professor of Law at the George Washington University Law School, author of the “Just Health: Treating Structural Racism to Heal America” **This episode is part of Season 3 on Top of Mind: Finding Fairness. From health and immigration to prisons and pot, how can we get more peace and prosperity for all?

What is the Purpose of Prison? Mar 06, 2023

When someone commits a crime in this country, we lock them up—and we do it a lot. If you look at just the people who are incarcerated globally, a disproportionate number – 20 percent – are in American prisons. The U.S. criminal justice system was created to enforce laws, punish offenders, deter crime, and protect society. How well do prisons help accomplish those things? Current incarceration and recidivism rates suggest some room for improvement. Are there other options? In this podcast episode, we get perspectives on the effectiveness and purpose of prison from a man serving life for murder and a father whose son was murdered. We also look at how Norway’s prison system was reformed in the 1990s to lower prison violence and re-offense rates. Norwegian prisons today are focused on rehabilitation rather than punishment. A handful of US states are implementing Norwegian concepts, so we’ll speak with the superintendent of Oregon’s largest prison to understand how America might benefit from changing the role of incarceration in our justice system. Podcast Guests: Spoon Jackson, published poet, teacher, playwright, and inmate in the California state prison system Azim Khamisa, founder of the Tariq Khamisa Foundation and author of “From Murder to Forgiveness: A Father’s Journey” Tom Eberhardt, former guard and warden, senior adviser to the Norwegian Correctional Service, Norwegian Program Manager for Amend at UCSF Jamie Miller, Superintendent, Snake River Correctional Institution in Oregon **This episode is part of Season 3 on Top of Mind: Finding Fairness. From health and immigration to prisons and pot, how can we get more peace and prosperity for all?

Common Ground in the Debate Over Teaching Kids About Race in School Jan 30, 2023

The debate over how race – and America’s history with racism – should be taught in schools has come to feel black and white: you’re either for it or against it. But race isn’t black and white, and neither is the issue of how to teach kids about race in schools. In this episode of the podcast, we’ll hear from two mothers and a teacher with especially complicated views on when it’s helpful to talk about race with kids – and when it can do more harm than good. While their views on CRT and teaching the history of slavery differ, both mothers would like to be able to trust teachers to navigate race-related topics in a way that leaves all children feeling affirmed, not ashamed. And teachers need trust from parents to navigate the issue successfully. Is it possible our deep divide over teaching kids about race is not a question of curriculum, but rather of trust? Podcast Guests: LaShawn C. Williams, mother of three, licensed clinical social worker and full-time faculty at Salt Lake Community College Brooke Stephens, mother of four, curriculum director for Utah Parents United Jenna Chandler-Ward, educator, co-founder of Teaching While White, co-author of “Learning and Teaching While White.”

Stick With It Stories: Talking Faith on Social Media Jan 23, 2023

Our “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with an all too familiar story of a social media post provoking an unexpected, angry reaction. For Allie, posting about her Christian faith on Instagram felt innocuous and empowering. But a dear friend was hurt by the post. Allie was hurt too, but chose to validate her friend’s perspective and be vulnerable about her own. Sticking with that discomfort deepened the relationship and gave Allie insight on a better approach to posting about her spiritual convictions online. Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to lean into the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

Stick With It Stories: A Children’s Librarian Confronts Book Banning Jan 16, 2023

Our “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with a story about a children’s librarian feeling upset and attacked by the nationwide debate over book banning. But instead of dismissing her concerns about book censorship, she chose to try listening more closely to what parents and citizens were saying. After watching countless videos of confrontational school board meetings from around the country, she began to find some common ground with people demanding that certain books be banned from schools and libraries. She still opposes book banning, but she has dramatically changed her approach to concerns about the books in her library collection. Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to lean into the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

Is Sports Fandom Good for America? Jan 09, 2023

Most Americans identify as sports fans – more than identify as church-goers, in fact. Is it good for sports fandom to play such a prominent role in society? After all, we know how tribal, obsessive and competitive we can get about our favorite sports teams. But there’s evidence that sports fandom offers benefits to American society, as a whole. For example, it fuels networks of relationships and can help reduce political polarization. In this podcast episode, we’ll hear why sports fans often have more friends and are more satisfied with other aspects of their lives, too. And we’ll cast a critical eye on the influence sports has on the way we think about gender, patriotism and the American Dream. How can we maximize the positive impact of sports fandom in society? Podcast Guests: Jennifer Moglia, sports journalist, student at Quinnipiac University, Rangers and Mets fan Ben Valenta, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Analytics at Fox Sports, co-author “Fans Have More Friends” David Sikorjak, President of Dexterity Consulting, former Senior Vice President of Analytics at Madison Square Garden, co-author “Fans Have More Friends” Michael Serazio, Associate Professor, Department of Communication at Boston College, author of “The Power of Sports: Media and Spectacle in American Culture”

How to Talk About Abortion Jan 02, 2023

Abortion is such a controversial issue, most of us avoid discussing it for fear of ending up in an angry debate. Plus, few of us are open to changing our minds about abortion access, so what’s the point of talking about it with people who disagree? In this episode of the podcast, we’ll learn how to talk about abortion and why it’s crucial that we do, even if there’s no chance of finding common ground. We’ll explore the amazing story of The Abortion Talks – when, during a particularly violent period in Boston in the 1990s, three pro-choice leaders and three pro-life leaders began meeting in secret. Their dialogue on abortion rights continued for nearly six years. None of the women changed their views on abortion. But the conversations changed their lives and the tone of the abortion debate nationwide. Image: Poster for The Abortion Talks documentary Podcast Guests: Barbara Thorp, social worker, participant in The Abortion Talks, former director of the Pro-Life Office for the Catholic Archdiocese of Boston Melissa Kogut, participant in The Abortion Talks, former executive director of NARAL Pro-Choice of Massachusetts Josh Sabey and Sarah Perkins, co-directors of The Abortion Talks documentary (UPDATE 6/26/24 the film is now called The Basement Talks and the extended six-part series is available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV) John Sarrouf, dialogue facilitator and co-executive director of Essential Partners

Community Traditions that Connect Us to Home Dec 19, 2022

It’s the season for nostalgia, so we’re looking at how community traditions help us feel connected to the place we live. Is there a certain holiday, or time of year, when you’ll go out of your way to be in your hometown? This week on the podcast, we’re sharing stories from around the country of Christmas traditions, Fourth of July festivities, summer music jams and a host of quirky celebrations from small town America. At first glance these customs may just seem like fun activities and social gatherings. But as we dig deep into the significance behind our traditions, it becomes clear that these events play an important role in enriching our culture and building our communities. GUESTS: Melody Warnick, author “This is Where You Belong” and “If You Could Live Anywhere” Don Ryan, Whistlemaster of York, PA Penny Meservier, former director of the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce in Farmington, Maine, home of “Chester Greenwood Day” Marie McCusker, Executive Director of the Petaluma, CA Downtown Association and Visitor Program, home of “Butter and Egg Days” Zach Tucker, Director of Operations, Planet Bluegrass, Lyons, CO Stephanie Driggs from Pleasant Grove, UT home of “Strawberry Days” Natasha Szilagyi from Seattle, WA Ralph Tobias from Reading, PA

Righting Society’s Past Wrongs: How Late is Too Late to Repair? Dec 12, 2022

Can righting society's past wrongs help us heal from historical harm? Many people argue that America’s past mistakes, particularly its treatment of African Americans and indigenous peoples, have had consequences we’ve never reckoned with. Others argue that former injustices happened so long ago we should just move on. In this podcast episode, we explore two authors’ frameworks for personal reparations, the history of South Africa’s truth and reconciliation commission, and a Jewish perspective on repentance and repair. Podcast Guests: Sharon Leslie Morgan, founder of Our Black Ancestry and co-author of "Gather at the Table: The Healing Journey of a Daughter of Slavery and a Son of the Slave Trade" Tom DeWolf, director and manager at Coming to the Table and co-author of "Gather at the Table" Eric Wiebelhaus-Brahm, professor in the School of Public Affairs at University of Arkansas, Little Rock Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg, author of "On Repentance and Repair: Making Amends in an Unapologetic World"

Why We Take Water for Granted – But Really Shouldn’t. Dec 05, 2022

It’s easy to take clean water for granted in America. But there are millions of people in this country who can’t count on water to flow when they turn the tap or flush the toilet. Your city is likely decades behind on maintenance and upgrades to its water infrastructure and sewer systems. Add to that the extended drought gripping Western states, and it’s increasingly clear that none of us can – or should – take water for granted. In this episode of the podcast, we’ll hear from Jackson, Mississippi, California’s Central Valley farming community and the Blackfeet Reservation in Montana for insight on how we might recalibrate our relationship with water and think differently about this essential resource. Guests: Lauren Lewis, resident of Jackson, MS, Health Justice and Safety Organizer, Immigrant Alliance for Justice and Equity Dan Van Abs, Professor of Practice for Water, Society and the Environment, Rutgers University Don Cameron, General Manager of Terranova Ranch in Helm, CA Rosalyn LaPier, Professor of History at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, enrolled member of the Blackfeet Tribe of Montana and Métis Colin Kuehl, Professor of Political Science and Environmental Studies, Northern Illinois University

Stick With It Stories: Inside a Neighborhood Conflict Nov 28, 2022

Our new “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with a story about neighborhood conflict and the solution one woman found by staying open and curious. “Marie” found herself at odds with her neighbors when a drug dealer moved in next door and made the street unsafe. While other homeowners hunkered down and blamed the police for failing to solve the problem, Marie went looking for a long-term resolution. That choice led to a host of new realizations and a better outcome from the neighborhood. Tune into this conversation to hear how. Top of Mind would love to hear your Stick With It story. Can you think of a time when you felt your perspective or worldview challenged and, instead of getting defensive, you chose to lean into the discomfort – and you’re glad you did? Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu.

Stick With It Stories: A Storyteller Tackles His Own Uncomfortable Story About Race Nov 21, 2022

Our new “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast kicks off with storyteller Sam Payne sharing how he tackled his own uncomfortable story about race. In this episode, Sam talks about a time he was asked to perform a story about race at a conference. He was embarrassed to decline the invitation because he didn't think he had story to tell. He is a white man living in a non-racially diverse community and felt that he had nothing to contribute. But as he leaned into the discomfort, he was surprised by what he learned about his own racial identity and community. Tune into this conversation to hear how Sam handled the uncomfortable truths he discovered. We’re talking with listeners about a time when they felt their own perspective challenged and made the choice to stick with that discomfort – to lean into it – and they’re glad they did. Join the conversation by emailing your "Stick With It" story to topofmind@byu.edu. GUEST: Sam Payne, storyteller, host of The Apple Seed podcast, director of audio content and BYUradio.

Can the News be Trusted? Americans Aren’t Too Sure. Nov 14, 2022

Can the news be trusted? Americans aren’t too sure. What happens when we start to see journalists as enemies, rather than allies, of democracy and truth? Barely a third of Americans say they have even a "fair amount" of trust in the press, according to Gallup polls. They think mainstream media is biased, or sloppy. Are they right? In this podcast episode, we’ll discuss the role of journalism in democracy, what journalists are doing to create change on local and national levels, and what we can do to become more informed consumers when evaluating news sources. Guests: Katherine Corcoran, author of "In the Mouth of the Wolf" and former Associated Press bureau chief for Mexico and Central America Kevin Lerner, Associate Professor of Journalism, Marist College and author of "Provoking the Press: (MORE) Magazine and the Crisis of Confidence in American Journalism" David Bornstein, Journalist and Co-founder of the Solutions Journalism Network Sam Wineburg, Professor of Graduates Studies in Education at Stanford University, leading researcher on media literacy, founder of the Civic Online Reasoning curriculum

Why Do Wars Happen? Nov 07, 2022

When war breaks out, we tend to focus on whether the war is justified. Is it right to fight? Under international law, it's not that hard to justify going to war. But if we really want to understand why wars happen, asking only if the war is justified can muddy the water. In this second episode about war, we're focused on understanding how the decision to fight gets made. What leads a leader or society to look at the inevitable devastation that war causes, and say, "We're doing it anyway"? The answer to that question could provide the path to peace. (AP Photo/John Minchillo, FGile) Guests: Kael Weston, former US State Department diplomat, author of “The Mirror Test: America at War in Iraq and Afghanistan” Wes Bryant, retired US Air Force Master Sergeant, co-author of “Hunting the Caliphate: America’s War on ISIS and the Dawn of the Strike Cell” Chris Blattman, professor of global conflict studies, University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy, author of “Why We Fight: The Roots of War and the Paths to Peace”

When is War Justified? Oct 24, 2022

Most Americans have never fought in a war, or even had our lives disrupted by one. Does being so far removed from the loss and trauma make us more willing to send our military into battle? This is the first of two episodes we’re dedicating to thinking more deeply about the consequences of war. Rarely is going to war clearly the right or wrong choice. When is war justified? We're hoping that, by really embracing the nuance here, we'll be more clear-eyed as citizens and voters the next time America has the choice to fight. (AP Photo/Balint Szlanko, File) Guests: Sonny Le, former refugee from Vietnam, Bay Area Regional Program Manager of Vaccinate ALL 58 Yalda Royan, refugee from Afghanistan, founding member of the Afghan Women’s Advocacy Group Frank “Gus” Biggio, US Marine Corps (retired), author of “The Wolves of Helmand: A View from Inside the Den of Modern War” Eric Jensen, US Army (retired), former special counsel to the US Department of Defense General Counsel, professor at Brigham Young University law school Chris Blattman, professor of global conflict studies, University of Chicago, author of "Why We Fight: The Roots of War and the Paths to Peace"

Lost in Politics: Engaging in Politics When Neither Party Fits Oct 17, 2022

If the whole point of a democracy is to represent the voice of the people, then why do so many Americans have a hard time engaging in politics? More than half of American citizens say that the two major political parties are doing a poor job representing the people, and partisan views keep getting more divisive. Staying engaged in politics can be a challenge when campaigns, advocacy groups, and candidates don’t align with our political views. Would a third major party solve the problem? In this podcast episode, we look at why American politics have become so polarized, and we explore how to stay engaged in politics when neither party feels like a good fit. Thanks to listeners Jeff, Cydne, Alex, Troy and Noah for sharing their stories in this episode. Podcast Guests: Robert Saldin, Professor of Political Science, University of Montana Jon Schaff, Professor of Political Science, Northern State University Richard Davis, co-founder of the United Utah Party, author of "Beyond Donkeys and Elephants: Minor Political Parties in Contemporary American Politics." Pastor Fred Garry, Senior Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen, NJ Evan Malbrough, fellow at the ACLU of Georgia, board member with The Andrew Goodman Foundation.

Introducing "Stick With It": What happens when you lean in to a challenging perspective? Oct 10, 2022

When you encounter a perspective that contradicts your own, the natural instinct is to either shut down or push back. But staying with that discomfort can pay off. Maybe it deepens a relationship or leads to some fresh insight. Top of Mind is launching a new series called “Stick With It” where we talk with people about a time they encountered a perspective that felt challenging, chose to stick with that discomfort, and they’re glad they did. In this episode, we speak with a couple of friends – one is Black, one is white – about embracing tough conversations as they wrote a book together about race. And host Julie Rose shares a “Stick With It” story of her own. Email your story to topofmind@byu.edu. Guests: Shanterra McBride, author, preacher, speaker, founder of Marvelous University Rosalind Wiseman, co-founder of Cultures of Dignity, author of “Queen Bees and Wannabes” and co-author with McBride of “Courageous Discomfort: How to Have Important, Life-Changing Conversations About Race and Racism.

Does America Still Value Religious Expression? Oct 03, 2022

The freedom to believe—and express those religious beliefs—is embedded in America’s founding documents. But being outwardly religious—like wearing a hijab, turban or yarmulke—isn’t always respected by our society. Church membership has also been steadily declining across the country. As American culture changes, do we still value religious expression and freedom? What role does faith play in today’s society? In this podcast episode, we’re thinking more deeply about how much we—as individuals and as a society—really value religious diversity and public expressions of faith. Podcast Guests: Simran Jeet Singh, Executive Director for the Aspen Institute’s Religion & Society Program and author of The Light We Give: How Sikh Wisdom Can Transform Your Life. Justin McClain, Catholic educator and author of Called to Teach, Alleluia to Amen, and Called to Pray. Asma Uddin, attorney, visiting law professor at Catholic University of America, author of “When Islam Is Not a Religion: Inside America’s Fight for Religious Freedom” Diana Eck, founder of The Pluralism Project at Harvard University (photo credit: Simran Jeet Singh by John Noltner)

Does Activism Work? Being a Social Activist in Today’s World Sep 26, 2022

The word “activist” tends to scare off a lot of people. And you may be wondering, does activism work? We often associate activism with social protests and political marches which get a lot of attention and can spark violence, but do they generate change? Iff we thought about activism differently, would more of us be motivated to work for change? In this podcast episode, we look to the example of Rosa Parks who did so much more than refuse to give up her seat on a segregated bus. And we consider why viral hashtags on social media rarely lead to big, lasting change. Plus, how a new definition of activism could motivate more of us to work on making the world a better place. Podcast Guests: HH Leonards, founder of The O Street Museum and Mansion in Washington, DC and author of “Rosa Parks Beyond the Bus: Life, Lessons and Leadership” Gal Beckerman, senior editor for books at The Atlantic, author of “The Quiet Before: On the Unexpected Origins of Radical Ideals.” Emma Petty Adams and Jennifer Walker Thomas, co-executive directors of MWEG (Mormon Women for Ethical Government) Karen Walrond, author of "The Lightmaker's Manifesto: How to Work for Change Without Losing Your Joy"

Facing Our Fear of Grief Sep 12, 2022

Grief from death or loss is a normal part of life. Yet, simply thinking about grief can raise feelings of fear, anxiety, and hopelessness. Why is our culture so uncomfortable with intense grief? American rituals are designed to keep mourning quiet and private. We mutter clichés that offer little comfort and expect grieving to be like getting the flu – you feel really bad and then you get better. We make even less space for grieving pets, or pregnancy loss. In today’s podcast episode we consider how we can face our fear of grief and what might be different if we allowed feelings of grief to be bigger, longer, and more public? Podcast Guests: Jaqueline Dooley, writer, essayist - https://jacquelinedooley.medium.com/ Brandy Schillace, author of “Death's Summer Coat: Our Strange, Unsettled History of Mourning” E.B. Bartels, author of "Good Grief: On Loving Pets Here and Hereafter" Katie C. Reilly, writer, attorney Lisa Athan, grief therapist and founder of Grief Speaks

Benefits of Social Relationships: Mending Fractures and Widening Our Circles Sep 05, 2022

What if you sent a hand-written, two-page letter to every single one of your Facebook friends? What if you struck up conversations with strangers more often? What if you mended a fracture in your family? Whether we are connecting with friends or family, the benefits of social relationships are numerous. We often hear about how social interaction and connection can improve our mental and physical health. But can relationships also be a way to heal our societal divisions and strengthen our communities? In this podcast episode, we explore how widening our circles and tending to relationships more mindfully could be good for us - and society. Podcast Guests: Amy Weinland Daughters, sports columnist and author of “Dear Dana: That Time I Went Crazy and Wrote All 580 of My Facebook Friends a Handwritten Letter” Joe Keohane, journalist and author of “The Power of Strangers: The Benefits of Connecting in a Suspicious World” Karl Pillemer, professor of human development and geriatrics at Cornell University, author of “Fault Lines: Fractured Families and How to Mend Them.”

Why Do Family History? Aug 29, 2022

Learning about our ancestors may not seem all that interesting – or important. So why do family history? It turns out that there is a compelling case for learning about our past. Research suggests that learning about our ancestors’ stories, culture, traditions, and lives can help us understand our own identity, connect with others, and inspire us to be better people. But what happens if our past is filled with dark stories that we would rather not be associated with? Is doing family history still worth it? In this podcast episode, we explore how family history can open new doors, build resiliency within families, and the value in digging a little deeper to understand your past. Podcast Guests: Christopher Jones, BYU History Professor Libby Copeland, author of “The Lost Family: How DNA Testing Is Upending Who We Are” Edward Di Gangi, author of “The Gift Best Given: A Memoir” Gaynell Brady, owner of Our Mammy’s

What is the True Impact of Humanitarian Aid? Jul 18, 2022

The humanitarian needs across the world right now are enormous. War, political corruption, natural disasters, debilitating poverty, and economic failure can all cause a humanitarian crisis. When these crises occur, our natural instinct is the help. And, helping out seems straightforward – you just send money or show up. But can assistance sometimes do more harm than good? What is the true impact of humanitarian efforts? If you’re not careful, your time and money may do no good to help those in crisis. Worse, it might end up hurting those you’re hoping to help. In this podcast episode, we consider how best to respond in a humanitarian crisis, why doing a “service trip” to a distant country isn’t necessarily helpful and ways to boost the impact of your humanitarian aid. Podcast Guests: Svitlana Miller, founder, ToUkraineWithLove.org Meg Sattler, director, Ground Truth Solutions Bocchit Edmond, Haiti’s Ambassador to the United States Pippa Biddle, author of “Ours to Explore: Privilege, Power and the Paradox of Voluntourism” Kat Rosqueta, founding executive director, Center for High Impact Philanthropy (impact.upenn.edu) at the University of Pennsylvania

Does a College Degree Matter? Evaluating the Value of a College Education Jul 11, 2022

College education is traditionally seen in America as a worthwhile investment that can help people get ahead, find better jobs, and earn higher salaries. But with our ever-changing social and economic landscape, does a college degree matter? Some employers are no longer requiring a degree for professional jobs. As the cost of getting a degree continues to rise, is a college education worth the expense if it doesn’t lead to lucrative job after graduation? In this podcast episode, we’ll explore how American society determines the value of a college education and how to know when pursuing higher education is the right choice. Podcast Guests: Alexis Ayala, Business Development Representative at Okta Anthony Carnevale, Director of the Georgetown Center for Education and the Workforce Ron Lieber, New York Times Finance Columnist, Author of “The Price You Pay for College: An Entirely New Road Map for the Biggest Financial Decision Your Family Will Ever Make” Ken Rusk, Entrepreneur, Author of “Blue Collar Cash: Love Your Work, Secure Your Future, and Find Happiness for Life”

Hope or Dread? Let’s Rethink Our Obsession with Aging Jul 04, 2022

In our culture that celebrates youthfulness, countless Americans dread getting older. Aging brings inevitable changes to our bodies, abilities and lifestyle. But aging not all bad. Surveys show time and again that people in their 80s are happier than young adults and people in middle age. So why do we fear getting older? What if we rethink our obsession with aging? In today’s podcast episode, we explore what aging is really like in America right now and how the experience might be better if we stopped worrying about the process of growing old. Podcast Guests: Katherine Esty, therapist and author of Eighty somethings: A Practical Guide to Letting Go, Aging Well, and Finding Unexpected Happiness Bill Rodgers, decorated marathon runner and Olympian Marc Agronin, geriatric psychiatrist at Miami Jewish Health and author of The End of Old Age: Living a Longer, More Purposeful Life Ashton Applewhite, activist and author of The Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism Donna Butts, Executive Director of Generations United

What is the Goal of Foster Care? Jun 13, 2022

Once a child is placed in foster care, reunification with a parent or guardian happens less than half of the time. But many child welfare agencies say reuniting families is the primary goal of foster care because placing a child in the care of strangers is always traumatic – even when it’s necessary. Why doesn’t reunifying families happen more often? Is there a solution that both protects children and prioritizes families? In this podcast episode, we’ll discuss how the foster system could do more to strengthen families and protect children while ensuring children and teens find stable homes with loving caregivers. Podcast Guests: Aby, a Mother who reunited with her child Dalton Shump, Permanency Case Worker, KVC Molly Tierney, Managing Director, North American Public Sector at Accenture, Former Director of the Baltimore City Department of Social Services Lynn Price, Founder, Camp to Belong Sixto Cancel, Non-Profit Founder, Think of Us

What is the Impact of Affirmative Action? Rethinking College Admissions Jun 06, 2022

As colleges across the country are seeking to increase student diversity, is affirmative action the solution? What is the impact of affirmative action on college admissions? The US Supreme Court has repeatedly held that some amount of race-based discrimination is okay in college admissions, if the goal is to create a more diverse campus. And affirmative action policies have benefited college applicants from certain minority groups. But, no one wants to be rejected from their dream school because of something they can’t control – like their race, or their parents’ income. In this podcast episode, we’ll explore the effects of affirmative action and consider other ways to create diversity in higher education. Podcast Guests: Zachariah Chou, author of USA Today op-ed "My race may have played a factor in my college rejections, but I support affirmative action" Wenyuan Wu, Executive Director of Californians for Equal Rights Foundation Monica O'Neal, psychologist in Boston and faculty at Harvard Medical School Rick Sander, economist and law professor at UCLA Audrey Dow, Senior Vice President of The Campaign for College Opportunity

Learning from the Stories of Refugees in America May 30, 2022

One out of every 95 people on Earth has fled their home because of conflict or persecution. With thousands of people fleeing their countries and seeking asylum around the world, what can we learn from stories of refugees in America? What is the experience of leaving – when you’d rather stay – and resettling in a place where everything is foreign? Refugee stories give us a glimpse into the perseverance needed to find home again in a foreign place. In this podcast episode, people who came to America as refugees share their stories of heartbreak, healing, and new friendships as they seek to build a better life in a new country. Podcast Guests: Warda Mohamed Abdullahi, Somalian refugee, author of "Warda: My Journey from the Horn of Africa to a College Education" Mackenzie Wellman, Warda’s mentor Luma Mufleh, founder of Fugees Family, author of "Learning America: One Woman's Fight for Educational Justice for Refugee Children" Liz Jevtic-Somlai, Associate Director at Their Story is Our Story Aden Batar, Services Director at Catholic Community Services of Utah

A Deeper Look at Wrongful Convictions in America May 23, 2022

18 years. That’s how long Anthony Graves spent in prison for a crime he never committed. Unfortunately, his story is not uncommon in this country. Wrongful convictions happen all the time in America, and they could happen to anyone. Data indicates that the number of exonerations happening each year the United States has dramatically increased the past few years, highlighting just how many people have been wrongly sentenced for crimes they didn’t commit. How do we stop innocent people from going to prison? Or are they just the price we pay to keep communities safe? In this podcast episode, we look at how big mistakes are made in the American justice system and current efforts to prevent wrongful convictions. Podcast Guests: Anthony Graves, exoneree, author “Infinite Hope: How Wrongful Conviction, Solitary Confinement, and 12 Years on Death Row Failed to Kill My Soul” David Rudolf, defense attorney, author of “American Injustice: Inside Stories from the Underbelly of the Criminal Justice System” Emily Galvin-Almanza, co-founder of Partners for Justice Walter McNeil, sheriff of Leon County, Florida

Ending Toxic Polarization in American Politics May 09, 2022

Division is nothing new in America, but the current political divide feels different. Why are we so angry and fearful and ever more deeply entrenched in our safe little bubbles of like-minded people? Disagreement, conflict, and differences in opinion are normal and are often a healthy part of democracy. But the way we handle our differences in beliefs, attitudes, and opinions can do more harm than good. Does polarization in the United States pose a threat to our political system? And, most importantly, is there a way to end this toxic polarization in American politics? In this podcast episode, we discuss the root causes of toxic polarization in America today, practical advice on bridging our differences, and the story of one man trying to change the narrative one difficult conversation at a time. Podcast Guests: Dylan Marron, author, “Conversations with People Who Hate Me” Amy Chua, Yale Law School professor, author, “Political Tribes,” and “Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother” Peter Coleman, social psychologist, Columbia University, author, “The Way Out: How to Overcome Toxic Polarization.”

Changing Our Perspective on Mental Illness May 02, 2022

The social stigma surrounding mental illness is very real. What would happen if we changed our perspective on mental illness and how we treat it? We typically think that the way to treat mental illness is through therapy and antidepressants. But the Western medicine perspective on mental health doesn’t always fit. More and more people are taking antidepressants, but rates of depression aren’t declining. Meanwhile, some unconventional methods, like indigenous practices and psychedelics, are helping people cope with mental health symptoms and problems. In today’s podcast episode, we show the power of thinking differently about mental illness and how changing our perspective on treatment methods could open new paths to healing. Podcast Guests: Sam, mental health patient Terrie Moffitt, clinical psychologist, professor, Duke University Joseph Gone, cultural clinical psychologist, professor, Harvard University Reid Robison, chief medical officer, Novamind

Do Great Cities Just Happen? Apr 25, 2022

Millions of Americans move each year in search of a better house, neighborhood, job or quality of life. Is leaving the only way to live some place better? And do great cities just happen? It’s easy to think that great cities are the product of a healthy economy, strong infrastructure, or a safe community. But what’s our role as residents in making a city great. Today on the podcast, we crisscross the country and check in with Top of Mind listeners about what makes a city great. You may be surprised to hear that great cities are less about the buildings, roads, and environment and are more about us. Podcast Guests: Majora Carter – Author of “Reclaiming your Community” Jim and Deb Fallows – Co-authors of “Our Towns: A 100,000-Mile Journey into the Heart of America” Melody Warnick – Author of “This is Where You Belong” and “If You Could Live Anywhere” Lynn Kreutz, Hayley Trotter, Reed Wolfley, Erika Layland, Jenny Van Stone, Kim Parati – Top of Mind Listeners

America's Obsession with Work Apr 18, 2022

Americans are obsessed with work. Americans spend more time working than people in other wealthy nations, and despite complaining about being overworked, we still put in long hours at our jobs. Why do we feel the need to work so much? And why have we made productivity and busyness a key part of our identity? In this podcast episode, we take a deep dive into American work culture and how working less could actually be good for employers and employees. Podcast Guests: Joshua Fields Millburn, co-founder, “The Minimalists” Jamie McCallum, author of "Worked Over: How Round-the-Clock Work is Killing the American Dream" Alex Soojung-Kim Pang, author of "Shorter: Work Better, Smarter, and Less—Here's How" Ursula Mead, founder, and CEO of InHerSight

Improving Life for People with Autism Apr 04, 2022

Living with autism comes with many challenges. In the past, the prevailing attitude was to fix or cure autism. But how could life improve for autistic people if we looked at the world through their eyes? Autistic people don’t necessarily want a cure. What they want is a better quality of life that allows them to have greater independence and be their true selves. In this podcast episode, we talk with autism advocates who argue that the way to make life better for people with autism spectrum disorder is not to force them to fit the world, but to help the world fit them. Podcast Guests: Emily Grodin and Valerie Gilpeer, co-authors of “I Have Been Buried Under Years of Dust.” Eric Garcia, journalist for The Independent and author of ‘We're Not Broken: Changing the Autism Conversation.” Monique Botha, community psychologist and researcher at the University of Stirling Sarah and Larry Nannery, co-authors of “What to Say Next: Successful Communication in Work, Life and Love with Autism Spectrum Disorder.”

A New Approach to Ending Poverty in America Mar 28, 2022

People who experience poverty in America are constantly riding a rollercoaster of highs and lows as they struggle to better their situation. In desperation, they’re asking “is there any way out?” While a growing number of people agree that ending poverty in the U.S. is achievable, there’s plenty of debate on the specifics. Some people say that we need to change policies. Other people say we need a new approach to helping poor people get better opportunities and essential resources. Advocates leading the fight against poverty are finding that the answer will start with a change in perspective on what poverty is and how it is impacting individuals in our country. We’re learning that American poverty isn’t an individual’s problem—it’s a community problem. In this podcast episode, we’ll be hearing from individuals who have experienced first-hand the effects of poverty and experts who have devoted their lives to ending poverty on how we can take a new approach to American poverty. Podcast Guests: Alicia, Circles Participant Chris Robinson, Circles Participant Robert Rector, Senior Research Fellow at the Heritage Foundation Dr. H. Luke Schaefer, Co-author of “$2.00 a Day: Living on Almost Nothing in America” and Professor at the University of Michigan LaMont Hampton, Program Coordinator for Circles Davis County Paul Born, Founder of the Tamarack Institute

Can Non-Citizens Vote? The Complicated History of Voting Rights Mar 21, 2022

Citizenship is required for voting in most countries and states. Is there value to this voting rights restriction? Where can non-citizens vote? Some municipalities—like New York City—are allowing non-citizens to vote in city elections. But in most local and federal elections non-citizens are denied voting rights because Congress has said that individuals must be legal citizens and registered to participate in U.S. elections. How does being given or denied the right to vote affect somebody’s sense of belonging in a community? In this podcast episode, we look at the history of voting rights and restrictions in America and see how voting by non-citizens plays out in elections where it is allowed. Podcast Guests: Woojung Diana Park, Immigrant Justice Organizer at Minkwon Center in New York Chaewon Jessica Park, Immigrant Justice Organizer at Minkwon Center in New York Howard Husock, Senior Fellow of Domestic Policy Studies at the American Enterprise Institute Ron Hayduk, professor of political science at San Francisco State University Kate Stewart, mayor of Takoma Park Maryland

Is Harm Reduction Enabling Drug Use or Saving Lives? Mar 14, 2022

Harm reduction is intended to prevent death, drug overdose, and substance abuse. But is harm reduction enabling drug use? Or does harm reduction truly save lives? Harm reduction has evolved in the last 40 years. New York City just opened the first government-sanctioned supervised injection sites in the country. Debate over the effectiveness of these harm reduction centers is controversial. Maia Szalavitz remembers the first time she was introduced to harm reduction; a friendly woman advised her to clean her needles with bleach during the HIV/AIDS crisis. Instead of facing judgment for her drug use, she was told that her life was worth living regardless. Whereas other people feel that harm reduction is supporting risky behavior and enabling drug use. Here on the podcast, we will take a deep look into the harm reduction debate and discuss whether it’s possible to accept somebody as they are without enabling their harmful behavior. Podcast Guests: Maia Szalavitz - author of the New York Times bestseller, Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction Dr. Leslie Suen - board-certified internal medicine physician and addiction medicine specialist in San Francisco Darwin Fisher - manager of North America’s first supervised injection site, Insite in Vancouver BC Keith Humphreys - addiction researcher and professor, Stanford University School of Medicine; former Obama-era senior policy adviser, White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONSCP) David Murray - co-director for the Center for Substance Abuse Policy Research, Hudson Institute; former Bush- and Obama-era associate deputy director, ONSCP Brendan Cox - retired Police Chief; Director of Policing Strategies, LEAD National Support Bureau

Is Weight an Indicator of Health? Mar 07, 2022

Is weight an indicator of health? We often think that skinny people are healthier than people with obesity, but research suggests we may be wrong about how we view body weight. Studies have shown that BMI isn’t always an accurate predictor of health. While the risks associated with being overweight shouldn’t be ignored, countless other factors contribute to wellbeing and are better determinants of health. Nevertheless, the impacts of diet culture and society’s predisposed assumptions about fatness still impact both old and young. In this podcast episode, we explore the relationship between weight and health. Podcast Guests: Mirna Valerio, Ultramarathoner, founder of Fat Girl Running Kathryn Hively, Founder of Just BE Parenting Glenn Gaesser, Professor of Exercise Physiology at Arizona State University Corinne Hannan, Psychologist and Assistant Clinical Professor, Brigham Young University

Understanding the Difference Between Race and Racism Feb 28, 2022

Race and racism are crucial topics in our national dialogue. And when we think of race, we might naturally think of one's skin color. But someone who is black can have white skin. So what is race? And what is the difference between race and racism? Two researchers say we are getting it all wrong and that biological race is a myth. But they say that socially-defined race and racism are real and very present in America. Tune into this podcast as we discuss the complexity of biology and ethnicity, how years of racial discrimination and prejudice have shaped the way we view humanity, and, most importantly, how we can think differently about race to create a more inclusive society. Podcast Guests: Natalie Devora, Author of "Black Girl White Skin: A Life In Stories" Dr. Joseph L. Graves Jr, Professor of biological sciences at North Carolina A&T State University, co-author of “Racism, Not Race: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions” Dr. Alan Goodman, Professor of biological anthropology at Hampshire College, co-author of “Racism, Not Race” Terry and Michele Wright, Co-Founders, National Organization of African Americans with Cystic Fibrosis Lauren Michele, Black blogger with Cystic Fibrosis

Chronic Pain Stories: A New Perspective on Life with Constant Hurt Feb 21, 2022

Jasmine Reed has lived with chronic illness since she was 15. After years of seeing doctors and trying different treatments, she doesn’t feel much better. Reed wishes others would believe she is in pain even though she doesn’t look sick. Chronic pain doesn’t necessarily come from a specific external cause, so it’s hard to treat and hard to prove to others. But that doesn’t mean it’s not real. Countless patients suffer from chronic pain with little relief. There’s a lot we can learn from hearing these chronic pain stories that can help us develop greater empathy and find solutions. In this podcast episode, we talk to chronic pain experts about treatments and chronic pain’s connection to the opioid epidemic. We also talk to neuroscientists about pain patterns in the brain and how we can help to heal ourselves. Podcast Guests: Jasmine Reed, Chronic illness. Daniel Clauw, Director, Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, University of Michigan. Tor Wager, Professor of Neuroscience, Dartmouth College.

Why Do We Take Risks? Feb 14, 2022

We rarely know if our decisions will lead to failure or success. So why do we take risks? What causes us to readily embrace risky situations, while other times we back away? It’s often more arbitrary than we might want to admit. Whether it’s an everyday parenting situation or a death-defying rock climb, each decision we make involves some degree of risk. We are constantly evaluating those risks, and everyone calculates risk differently. How we measure uncertainty is complex and our perceptions of risk change based on the situation. We’ll be exploring that complexity here on the podcast as we examine how people gauge risk and look at ways to bring more rationality into our decision making. Podcast Guests: Jamie Davis Smith-Parent, attorney, and disability advocate Seema Lakdawalla- Parent and virologist at the University of Michigan Lenore Skenazy- Author and founder of the non-profit Let Grow Jane Joseph- Neuroscientist at the Medical University of South Carolina Alex Honnold- professional rock climber Paul Slovic- Professor of psychology at the University of Oregon

Starting Over After Life in Prison Feb 07, 2022

Nearly half of people who leave prison will end up back behind bars. Why is it starting over after life in prison so difficult? Would their lives be different if no criminal record shaped their life after jail? And how can we offer support? In this episode, we consider how the US justice system makes it difficult for people convicted of crimes to rebuild their lives after prison. We will hear the stories of formerly incarcerated individuals, insights from experts on the criminal justice systems, and perspectives of advocates who support individuals as they adjust to life after prison. Exploring the complexity and challenges of adjusting to life after incarceration can help us learn how we can encourage and support individuals as they rebuild their lives. Podcast Guests: Bobby and Cheryl Love, Co-authors of “The Redemption of Bobby Love.” Nathan Sterling, formerly incarcerated individual Karl Daniels, formerly incarcerated individual Reuben Jonathan Miller, Professor, University of Chicago. Author of “Halfway Home: Race, Punishment, and the Afterlife of Mass Incarceration.” Sue Mason, Executive Director, What’s Next Washington Krista Gulbransen, Executive Director, Berkeley Property Owners Association Penny Jennings, Vice-President of Strategic Programs, Greyston Bakery Leroy Bailey, Employee, Greyston Foundation Nicolas Debray, President, The Body Shop Americas Ted Castle – Owner, Rhino Foods

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