In this episode, Addison and Professor Bernd Reiter debate the future of democracy by looking at its origins, evolution, and potential solutions for growth and understanding. This conversation explains how history, culture, and global viewpoints influence our definition of democracy. Join the Conversation (Drop your thoughts in the comments.) Support the Defense of Democracy nonprofit organization! For more information visit: DefenseOfDemocracy.org Become a DofD Support Partn

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks with Suma Setty and Kaelin Rapport of the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP) about immigration policy, family separation, and the impact current enforcement practices are having on children, caregivers, and communities across the United States. Drawing on recent research conducted with immigrant families, childcare providers, healthcare workers, and community organizations, Suma and Kaelin

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt sits down with award-winning educator, speaker, and author Erin Jones for a deeply personal conversation about education, identity, race, leadership, and the power of honest dialogue to strengthen communities. Drawing from her experience, Erin shares how empathy, truth, and human connection have shaped her life's work. Together, they explore the challenges facing today's classrooms, the lasting effects

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks with filmmaker Jack Gordon, director of the documentary series Undivided, about the role of faith, religious diversity, and belonging in shaping the American story. Together, they explore how the experiences of religious communities throughout U.S. history reveal broader questions about democracy, identity, and who gets included in the nation's evolving narrative. Drawing on stories featured thro

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks with Suma Setty and Kaelin Rapport of the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP) about immigration policy, family separation, and the impact current enforcement practices are having on children, caregivers, and communities across the United States. Drawing on recent research conducted with immigrant families, childcare providers, healthcare workers, and community organizations, Suma and Kaelin

Fred Osborn shares a powerful truth: democracy is built on shared values, respect, and believing in each other's dignity. From his roots in nature to his service in Vietnam, he reminds us that civic engagement is rooted in everyday acts of kindness and standing up for what's right. But do Americans still carry that faith in collective action, or has it waned?

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks again with writer and historian Conor Broll for a thoughtful conversation on ideology, identity, and the future of civic discourse in America. They examine what it means to think freely in an age of political tribalism, questioning whether Americans are becoming more independent or simply recognizing the limits of inherited systems. Conor reflects on stepping outside ideological echo chambers, th

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt sits down with filmmaker Hyunsoo Moon, director of the documentary The Americans, for a deeply personal conversation about immigration, identity, belonging, and the meaning of the American Dream. Over the course of seven years filming immigrant families in Storm Lake, Iowa, Moon followed the lives of refugees and workers connected to America’s meatpacking industry, documenting not only hardship and sacr

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt talks with Jason B. Allen from the National Parents Union. They delve into the critical issues facing American families, focusing on education, literacy, and the role of parents in shaping democratic values. The conversation highlights the literacy crisis, the impact of the pandemic on education, and the importance of parental engagement in schools. Jason shares insights into the challenges families fac

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks with Kristen Schultz as she shares her journey from community engagement to running for local office. Discover how listening, trust, and leadership at the community level are vital to safeguarding democracy and building resilient neighborhoods.

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt discusses the nuanced differences between democracy and a constitutional republic, emphasizing the importance of civic participation, language, and leadership in safeguarding democratic norms. Key Takeaways The distinction between democracy and republic, and why language matters. The role of language and symbolism in civic identity ("America" vs "United States of America"). How leadership, especially wo

What does it take to strengthen American democracy today? In this episode of Defense of Democracy, congressional candidate Brandt Robinson discusses why he’s running for Congress, the growing challenges to voting rights and public education, and what defending democracy truly means in 2026. From grassroots activism in Florida to the national debate over immigration reform, Brandt explains: Why civic participation is declining and how to rebuild it The crisis in public educati

Discover how candidate Kate Barr is flipping the script on political norms by running in the Republican primary to combat gerrymandering and advocate for electoral reform. This episode delves into the realities of partisan district drawing, voter engagement, and innovative strategies to restore democracy. Key Takeaways For more information on Kate Barr, please visit: www.katebarrcanwin.com/ instagram.com/katebarrcanwin tiktok.com/@katebarrcanwin facebook.com/katecomptonba

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt discusses the current political climate, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and the erosion of democratic norms. He highlights the overwhelming feelings many people experience and the need for empathy and understanding in political discourse. Addison also explores the role of education in fostering democracy, the significance of voting, and the necessity of conscious participation in civic l

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks with Blythe Potter, a US Army veteran and candidate for Indiana's Secretary of State. They discuss the importance of transparency in government, restoring trust in political institutions, and the role of civic education in empowering voters. Blythe emphasizes the need for better data privacy protections and the significance of community engagement in the political process. The conversation highli

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks with Cathy Fleischer about the importance of advocacy in education. They discuss Cathy's journey into advocacy, the playbook she developed for empowering educators, and the current threats facing public schools. The conversation emphasizes the need for teachers to reclaim their voices and take small, actionable steps towards advocacy, highlighting the power of community and collaboration. Key Tak

In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt engages in a profound conversation with Reverend Amos J. Disasa about the urgent issues of mental health, suicide, and the importance of community support. They explore the concept of covenant in relationships, the hidden struggles many face, and the role of friendship in combating loneliness and despair. The discussion emphasizes the need for authentic connections and the responsibility we have to supp

The conversation delves into the growing concerns of political radicalization and polarization, exploring how these dynamics threaten liberal values and the rule of law. The speaker emphasizes the risks posed by both sides of the political spectrum and the implications for democracy's future.

In this episode of the Defensive Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks with Dr. Christine Emeran, Director of the Youth Free Expression Program at the National Coalition Against Censorship. They discuss the importance of youth activism, the role of protests in democracy, and the NCAC's mission in empowering young voices. Christine shares insights on how young people are leading movements for social change, the significance of understanding and defending First Amendme

Listen to the full episode of RISE with Defense of Democracy on YouTube. Addison K. Witt (Poet Laureate of Defense of Democracy) sits down with actress and activist Olivia Negron to explore the art of peaceful protest, identity, empathy, and storytelling as acts of civic courage. Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of art and democracy. Learn more: siraddisonwitt.com | Substack: siraddisonwitt.substack.com