Statement from Friends & Fellow Citizens re: tragic deaths of Rob Reiner and his wife and Trump's Truth Social post.

Our country is better than this.

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Not all signers were universally well-regarded as calm moderates. Hear how Samuel Chase, a lawyer and a bunch of other "jobs," was known as an "extremely irregular" signer. He would serve as Supreme Court Justice and get caught up in one of the most partisan episodes in early American history.

Sound Effect by freesound_community from Pixabay

"Deck the Halls" by Xylote (AudioJungle)

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Amid all the political noise about ideologues on the right and left, political moderates are unique in our democracy. What makes moderation so essential for robust democracies? Dr. Aurelian Craiutu, Professor and Chair of the Political Science Department at Indiana University Bloomington, shares about the array of faces and virtues of moderation that can steer society to a more balanced and stable state.

Check out Dr. Craiutu's books below!

Why Not Moderation?: Letters to Young Radicals

Liberalism Under Siege: The Political Thought...

Click here to watch on Youtube!

Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, and it may also mean honoring those who have given. Kristin Strobel, who was our guest in Ep. 90, joins our show again to discuss her latest project about a statue honoring one of the most famous Americans: Thomas Edison! Hear about the journey from idea to voting, statuary to statue. You can visit this magnificent Edison's statue, which still stands tall in the U.S. Capitol's National Statuary Hall.

Purchase Kristin's book here on Amazon!

Hear Kristin's previous guest episode! https://ffc...

"Populism" is a term thrown around by many in politics, but what kind of populists used to be prominent? Is populism only for those who claim to be populist? Hear an 1892 excerpt from James Weaver, a prominent Populist Party leader, and the ways he portrayed a long-standing issue (as old as the country) that applied to the 1890s and applies to this day in 2025 and beyond.

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Since the founding of the U.S., generations of Americans have strived to achieve democratic governance and self-government. How can Americans improve our system of democratic governance? Dr. Archon Fung, professor at the Harvard Kennedy School and Director of the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation, shares how public participation, deliberation, and transparency play important roles in keeping our democracy and federal republic.

Learn more about the Ash Center: https://ash.harvard.edu/

Click here to check out Archon's book Empowered Participation!

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State government is a key aspect of our federalist system in the U.S. But what is it like to represent a state capital's constituents in a state capitol? For this year's inaugural Nevada Day Special, PK O'Neill shares what it is like serving as Assemblyman for District 40 that includes Carson City (the state capital), Storey County, and some parts of Washoe County. He discusses his public service story and the value of having quality representation in the State Capitol that best reflects the interests of all Nevadans.

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The Founders collectively voted for independence, but did everyone who vote actually support it? Perhaps after this episode, George Read may be categorized as one of the more unique Signers of the Declaration.

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Many Americans on both sides of the political aisle agree polarization is a major problem. But do many Americans on either side truly understand the other side's world view and contributions? Dr. John Iceland, Sociology and Demography professor at Penn State, shares how in this American democracy, we can understand the social justice and social order perspectives and the value of respecting others with differing opinions.

Check out John's book HERE!

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Statement by Friends & Fellow Citizens on Gen. (ret.) Mark Welsh's resignation as President of Texas A&M University

Hear Gen. (ret.) Welsh's interview on F&FC: https://ffc.buzzsprout.com/1255184/episodes/12166387-114-leadership-in-washington-with-respect-and-trust-in-public-service-feat-gen-ret-mark-welsh-iii

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IMPORTANT NOTE/DISCLAIMER: All views expressed by the host are presented i...

Disclaimer: All views expressed are representative of the guest only.

238 years ago, the American experiment was officially born. The U.S. Constitution has been a guiding document created by the Founders that establishes our federal government and governance principles. Karrina Ferris, a Nevada (and Battle Born) native, represented the Silver State as Miss Nevada 2024. She shares more about her early public service experiences and platform to promote civics education and understanding of the Constitution.

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Please join and pray for Mr. Charlie Kirk, his family, and our country.

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IMPORTANT NOTE/DISCLAIMER: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views presented by guests are solely...

In Newburgh, how did Washington address one of the biggest threats to his leadership? Hear how the General of the Continental Army took a more visionary tone as he attempted to lead people forward from the controversy.

After half a decade of podcasting, we also recap the highlights from the past year's interview episodes 2024-25! Much more to come in Year Six!

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In a polarized political environment, people on the right and left may have knee-jerk reactions that fit their biases when they hear "race, ethnicity, culture." But at Penn State and beyond, these concepts represent something bigger: a world in conversation about how people connect with racial, ethnic, and cultural groups.

Two Penn State sociology professors Dr. Laurie Mulvey and Dr. Sam Richards join the podcast to discuss what makes civil dialogue so valuable in understanding people's social identities around the world. Dr. Mulvey is the Director of the World in...

Everyone has heard of Paul Revere and his famous Midnight Run, but there was another signer who rode through the night for a now-famous document. Learn how Caesar Rodney, a significant Founder of Delaware, felt about the American Revolution and broke the tie in the Delaware delegation.

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<...

Most Americans would say civics is very important to our democracy. But how often do members of the public ask themselves "What should we do?" 

This dual-guest episode features Dr. Peter Levine of Tufts University and Dr. Harry Boyte of the Institute for Public Life and Work, who are two longtime friends and fellow experts in the fields of civic studies and public work respectively. Hear the ways we can come together to actively renew our civics for a more resilient democratic system of government.

Learn more about Dr. Levine and the Tisch College at T...

While many Americans may not recognize his name, George William Curtis was one of the most influential political leaders who was well ahead of his time. What can we take away from just one of his speeches on civil service reform? Hear how Curtis's thoughts can instill some foundational principles in our political conversations about those who serve in government.

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We often watch Hollywood movies, TV shows, and other media as entertainment to temporarily escape the realities of life (including American politics). But how has Hollywood put a spotlight on our politics for decades? Professor of History at Purdue University Dr. Kathryn Brownell shares the exciting episodes and political figures that have shaped the entertaining nature of American culture.

You can check out Dr. Brownell's books below!

Showbiz Politics on Amazon.com

24/7 Politics on Amazon.com

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With the Fourth of July weekend just around the corner, this episode celebrates the independence and resilience of our country. For decades, Americans of Taiwanese descent have demonstrated these values as part of the melting pot story of America. 

Oceana Ling-Kurie (林小海), the reigning Miss International Taiwan 2024 and an aspiring actress and model, shares her story and lessons of living in two different cultures on either end of the great Pacific Ocean in her early life. She also discusses the significance of what it means to be an American of Taiwanese descent and the value of treasuring our country...

For our final Pennsylvania Signer, learn how George Ross had a change of heart as a former Tory and his connection (kind of) to the famous maker of the American flag Betsy Ross.

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Childhood is one of the most precious stages of a person's life. But every day, children across the U.S. and the world have had their childhood sadly taken away by pediatric cancer. 

In this first-ever in person F&FC interview, Hannah Adams is a childhood cancer survivor and advocate whose personal story and public service has touched numerous children and families. A University of Alabama graduate student, she has won multiple titles and awards in the Miss America Organization, including Miss Florida's Outstanding Teen 2019-20 and her current title Miss Phenix City 2025.

Hear how s...

Hear Sherman's thoughts on three major stories this week (former President Biden's prostate cancer diagnosis, Rep. Gerry Connolly's passing, and the tragic shooting of two young staffers of the Israeli Embassy DC) and the value of the American people setting aside political differences to come together.

The Hill (dated 5/18/2025): Biden's cancer diagnosis prompts bipartisan outpouring of support

Moment of bipartisanship between Rep. Connolly and Rep. Hice (Sept. 2022)

Politico article (dated 5/22/2025): 'Something horrific like this was eventually going to happen': DC's Jewish community reels from Israeli Embassy staffers' killings

...

For many, government can inadvertently or purposefully get in the way of doing business. In this largely unknown Supreme Court decision, the court majority had some rather unusual and fantastical imaginations for justifying an expansive reading of the Commerce Clause. Learn how this case could justify government regulations for the most absurd and improbable hypotheticals.

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Despite a history of medicinal innovation, the U.S. continues to unhealthily struggle with its pricey and inefficient healthcare system. What is holding back good healthcare policy with free market principles and necessary government regulation? 

Miranda Spindt, Policy Associate at the Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty (WILL), offers an overview of how too much government intervention has disrupted free market principles and created less-than-ideal health outcomes. She offers some unique solutions and ideas that can get us closer to a healthier conversation about the U.S. healthcare system.

Learn more about WILL at https://w...

While many signers were political activists who rallied supporters for independence, James Wilson had already wielded the power of legal knowledge for the American Revolution. Learn how this Pennsylvania signer challenged British legislative authority in the late 1760s and sowed the seeds for America's legal system just years later.

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For too long, the southern border of the U.S. has been a vulnerability for American national security, sovereignty, and immigration policymaking. And with Texas bearing the brunt of the border crisis, what do these challenges and dangers to the American people look like? Melissa Ford, Policy Director for the Texas Public Policy Foundation's (TPPF) Secure and Sovereign Texas campaign, warns about the major security and sovereignty threat from Mexican drug cartels. She also calls for stronger comprehensive policies to uphold American values of legal immigration, national security, and the rule of law.

Learn more about TPPF...

Video version available on Youtube: https://youtu.be/JE6G7-Atswg 

Starting today (not an April Fool's joke), F&FC will have video for special episodes!

Almost everyone has that favorite professor from school. But what if you could take a class with a professor who makes video pranks for students and viewers to enjoy?

Matthew Weathers, a math and computer science professor at Biola University, went viral several years ago with his famous classroom pranks watched around the world hundreds of millions of times. Hear the origins of his prank videos and h...

As many Americans and non-Americans strongly debate the future American foreign policy, there has been too much misunderstanding of U.S. foreign policy history and principles. Learn how one of America's greatest presidents Theodore Roosevelt can teach us about the realities of foreign affairs 120+ years after his 1904 Annual Address to Congress.

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The Tea Party may feel like a long time ago, but was it really just a movement? Or was it a much larger phenomenon? Dr. Rachel Blum, Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Oklahoma and the Carl Albert Center, previews her book about the Tea Party's takeover of the Republican Party and shares how the Tea Party became one of the most disruptively consequential political movements in recent U.S. political history.

Check out Dr. Blum's website rachelmblum.com and her book available on Amazon!

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Almost 30 years ago, Texas A&M University's Bush School of Government and Public Service was dedicated to continue the legacy of the late President George H.W. Bush. For this year's inaugural F&FC Presidents' Day Interview, founding Director of the Bush School Dr. Charles Hermann shares some insight and principles of the institution and its role in shaping public service in America.

Check out Dr. Hermann's books below!
When Things Go Wrong: Foreign Policy Decision Making under Adverse Feedback
Called to Serve: The Bush School of Government and Public Service

...

Living in the Pennsylvania countryside, George Taylor worked with iron furnaces before his arrival in the Continental Congress. Learn how Taylor's background can and should inform people nowadays about the value of blue-collar professions in our civics today.

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Lincoln, the Republicans, and the Union Army fought and won to preserve the country during the Civil War. But what larger battle brewed during the bloodiest conflict in American history? Dr. Forrest Nabors, Associate Professor and Chair of Political Science at the University of Alaska Anchorage, shares deeper insight into the larger political and spiritual conflict that determined the fate of the Founders' pillars of American republicanism.

If you wish to learn more and purchase Dr. Nabors' book From Oligarchy to Republicanism: The Great Task of Reconstruction on Amazon, check out this link!

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One can argue every presidential election is a rejection of the losing candidate and party. But what if that rejection is so significant and may be a repudiation? Hear Sherman's five criteria for a 'repudiation election' using Andrew Jackson's victory of the Election of 1828 as a starting point.

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How can Americans from both sides of the aisle prevent a 1/6 from ever happening again? Hear Jen's thoughts and advice on how voters can contribute to our states' election processes and remember the lessons from the infamous day in America's history.

ICYMI, check out Part I HERE!
Watch the documentary 'January 6th' on Discovery+ (link to trailer)
Learn more about the Congressional Management Foundation on its website and X!
Hear Sherman's first-hand account in #73: One Year After 1/6 - A Personal Reflection From a Former Congressional Intern

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Exactly four years ago, Jen Daulby was on the House floor and evacuated with Members of Congress as rioters amassed and wreaked havoc on our nation's Capitol.
 
Just a few hundred feet away, Sherman was in the Cannon House Office Building and was twice evacuated by U.S. Capitol Police due to a bomb threat and reports of intruders.

The real heroes that day were and always will be the brave police officers who risked their lives to defend the Capitol and American democracy.
 
With the upcoming certification of the 2024 election amid the ye...

While James Smith did not have nearly the same name recognition as many of his contemporaries, learn how his simple story may reflect a lot about how the signers are remembered and forgotten today. Sherman also shares thoughts and a quick historical excerpt in the spirit of the winter holiday season.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Friends & Fellow Citizens looks forward to welcoming another year in 2025!

Music Credits: 
"Joy to the World" by DIXIDD (AudioJungle)

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President Ronald Reagan was known as 'The Great Communicator' who made countless positive relationships with others across the political spectrum. But who has had the opportunity of a lifetime to personally serve him? Peggy Grande, Executive Assistant to President Ronald Reagan 1989-1999 (post-presidency period), shares deeper insight about Reagan and his unique personality, character, values, and charm that made him one of the most memorable and respected Presidents.

Check out Peggy's signature book The President Will See You Now!
Learn more about Peggy's work at https://peggygrande.com/

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As America was facing the crossroads on the political and moral debates of slavery, one former MA congressman warned of the ideologies and behavior that undermined the American experiment. Learn how Josiah Quincy III, a longtime Jefferson opponent who even attempted to impeach our third president, spoke about the dangers of usurpation, cunning, and arrogance that plagued politics then and plague our politics nowadays in different ways.

Link to Quincy's full speech (June 5, 1856)

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Hear a statement from Sherman and Friends & Fellow Citizens the day after the 2024 presidential election.

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IMPORTANT NOTE/DISCLAIMER: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views presented by guests...

How should we evaluate our Presidents and presidential candidates? In Part II, we continue our conversation with Dr. George C. Edwards III about the Bush School and Presidential Library, the Electoral College, and criteria people should use for evaluating candidate and presidential performance. Finally, hear why Presidents are prisoners of their premises and a preview of some of his many books about the American presidency.
 
 ICYMI, listen to Part I of our interview: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1255184/15791663
 
 Amazon.com links to Dr. Edwards' books on the U.S. presidency:
 The Strategic President: Persuasion and Oppor...

Teddy Roosevelt once coined the term 'bully pulpit' to describe an ideal speaking platform for one's agenda. But this begs many questions. The public can hear the President, but does the public actually listen? Is the Electoral College a democratic system for choosing our national leader? Does civility matter for Presidents?
 
 Released on the day before Election Day 2024, this conversation features Sherman speaking with Dr. George C. Edwards III. One of the leading presidential scholars of our time, Dr. Edwards is Texas A&M University Distinguished Professor Emeritus and has authored or edited 27 books. A researcher who en...

George Clymer was one of the staunchest supporters of independence who favored more drastic measures than many in the PA delegation. But what makes him a pragmatic signer? Learn how he helped supply the Continental Army when rough conditions and scare resources could have completely jeopardized the patriot cause.

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Imagine the ability to solemnly see the Earth and the universe from high above the sky and contributing to the ever-important infrastructure that informs us about outer space.
 
 A lifelong Aggie, Col. (Ret.) Michael E. Fossum was a former NASA astronaut who logged nearly 200 days in space, worked over 48 hours of extravehicular activity, and embarked on key missions to the International Space Station. He now serves as a VP of Texas A&M and the Chief Operating Officer of the Galveston campus. Hear Col. Fossum's inspiring story about working to become an astronaut, his service in space, th...

One hundred years before this year's 2024 U.S. presidential election, a different type of populism and progressivism swept the nation during the 1924 national elections. Learn how Wisconsinite U.S. Senator Robert La Follette (popularly known as "Fighting Bob") tapped into the two-party dissatisfaction of the American people and introduced a novel politics that brought very different voter coalitions together.
 
 Marking four years since the start of the podcast, Sherman also recaps some of the highlights from the 2023-24 podcast guests.
 
 "Adventures in Adventureland" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
 Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
 ...

The box office successes of the Barbie and Oppenheimer movies in 2023 may not have been just a coincidence. The Wausau Daily Herald earlier this year named a Wisconsinite woman as 'the real-life 'Barbenheimer.' Grace Stanke, a nuclear engineer and nuclear energy advocate who served as Miss America 2023, is a leader in sparking a new chain reaction. She unleashes her passion for nuclear energy and its role in keeping our physical (and discourse) environment cleaner and better for current and future generations.

Follow Grace on social media!
Instagram: @grace.stanke
X: @Grace_Stanke

...

While John Morton does not have the same recognition as other famous signers (like the one before him, Ben Franklin), he may have contributed to one of Pennsylvania's nicknames. Hear how Morton seized his "Keystone moment" when so much was on the line for the PA delegation and the Second Continental Congress.
 
 Also, a major announcement for our Patreon members!

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NEW Patreon update! Full versions of all interview episodes will soon be available to every paid member! More details next month!

How can we better prepare young people to best transition into public service careers? Whether you are interested in applying for internships, already an applicant, curious about how young people are getting involved, and/or know someone who is looking to start a career in public service, this is an episode for you!
 
Our guest Rachel Rohrbach is a Florida prosecutor with numerous internship experiences at places such as the White House and Capitol H...

Today (July 13, 2024) is a tragic day in American history. A former president and current major presidential candidate Donald Trump was tragically shot at a Trump rally near Butler, PA earlier this afternoon. Luckily by the grace of God, he is expected to be all right. But sadly, one rally attendee lost his life.

We are better than this.

Please continue to pray for our nation. There is no place for political violence in our country. Americans from all different walks of life need to come further together and bring more unity and peace to our...

Oscar Underwood, a Democrat U.S. Senator from Alabama 1915-1927, gained so much political capital during the Wilson administration and was considered a potential candidate for POTUS or VP. But his stance against the most powerful white supremacist group forced him to make his party go on record whether the party platform supports or opposes radicalism and extremism. While his effort was not successful in 1924, lessons from his courageous stance could teach us about the perils of giving in to the crazies of our time.

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For many, James Madison is known as the Father of the Constitution. But how did he become that Founding Father who shaped American institutions and politics far beyond his time?  Dr. Lynn Uzzell, a Madison scholar and Associate Professor of Political Science at Bethel University, shares the real lessons and experiences that taught the Founder himself about the realities of government and human beings.
 
 Check out lynnuzzell.com for more information about her work!

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Arguably the most famous American scientist, diplomat, postmaster, and so much more, Benjamin Franklin embodied America as an experiment. What distinguished him as a signer of the Declaration of Independence which he helped edit?

ICYMI, take a listen to Ep. 122 feat. Valerie Durham: https://ffc.buzzsprout.com/1255184/12791628-122-a-gathering-of-free-minds-for-festive-fun-at-freedomfest

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Revolutions are tumultuous episodes of history when the past and the present battle to fundamentally shape the future. How did the 'lawyers' revolution' and the American legal and political systems define and redefine the meanings and context of our laws? Dr. Williamjames Hoffer, Professor of History at Seton Hall University, tells the story of the Caning of Charles Sumner, the Plessy v. Ferguson case, and the 'lawyers' revolution' that refocus contemporaries on the political and legal aspirations and complexities of our nation.
 
 Check out the following books by Williamjames!
 The Clamor of Lawyers: The American Revolution and...

Nowadays, American conservative political leaders have foreign policy platforms that call for greater toughness against China. But they are not the first generation of conservatism that wanted stronger U.S. foreign policy and security in the wake of Communist China. Learn more about two formerly prominent but now forgotten Members of Congress, CA Sen. William Knowland and MN Rep. Walter Judd, who warned about the dangers of the Chinese Communist Party and sowed the seeds for U.S. support of Taiwan.

Thumbnail picture: U.S. Rep. Walter Judd (R-MN 1943-1963)

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Too often, Americans understandably anticipate modern technology but voice frustration over potholes. So what are some of the issues that are preventing the U.S. from having decent roads and technological advancements in our infrastructure? Kirbie Ferrell, a Texas A&M Bush School graduate and Policy Analyst at The Eno Center for Transportation, gives a snapshot of where we are on our infrastructure and how good methods like responsible deployment can better implement the technology we invent.

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John Adams called him "a greater and better Man that Dr. Franklin..." So who was this pioneer of medicine, education, and science? Learn how Dr. Benjamin Rush, Franklin's protégé, laid the foundation for modern mental health care and became an avid advocate for causes such as abolitionism, public education, and health care for the poor.

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Around 4am on February 24, 2022, Russia launched a tragic attack against Ukraine that began the first major European conflict since World War II. The causes and effects of the invasion have disrupted the state of U.S. national security and global world order. Dr. Kateryna Shynkaruk, an experienced diplomat and academic who is a Senior Lecturer at Texas A&M's Bush School DC, first discusses her firsthand experiences evacuating her home country. She also shares her thoughts about the conduct of Russian President Vladimir Putin, characteristics of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and the state and future of the conflict in...

While the XYZ Affair was not about deciphering secret codes, one could decipher some of the contentious eras of polarization and partisanship in American politics. Learn how this diplomatic episode between the Adams administration and French envoys divided the young nation, led to the buildup of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, and almost led to a major conflict in the 1790s.

Learn more about MA signer Elbridge Gerry in Ep. 71!

Thumbnail photo: Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord, French Foreign Minister

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Since the tragic Hamas terrorist attack against Israel on October 7, 2023 resulting in more than 1100 deaths, Jews worldwide have encountered an unprecedented wave of antisemitism. Trent Spoolstra, Associate Regional Director for the Midwest office at the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and fellow Bush School alumnus with Sherman, recounted his personal thoughts, experiences, and emotions after learning about the attack. Learn more about the mission and work of the ADL to fight antisemitism and all forms of hate, and hear Trent's calling for peace, tolerance, and civility during this critical time for the Jewish people and their communities.
 
 Find out mo...

When people think of money, they may think of Ben Franklin. But a different Founding Father from Pennsylvania supplied a lot of money that funded the American patriot cause. Learn how Robert Morris's rise and fall in American politics reflected the contentious nature of political life in the early years of the federal republic.

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What is the future of comms on the Hill? In Part II, Sarah recounts her first-hand experience with Sherman as they were evacuated during the January 6th, 2021 Capitol attack. She also shares the mission and vision of her own PR firm 917 Strategies and the future of women working in comms in our nation's capital. And finally, why dogs are wonderful company!
 
 In case you missed it, listen to Part I HERE

Check out Sarah's website! www.917strategies.com
Follow Sarah on:
Instagram: @sarahselip
X: @sarahselip
And follow her dog Lilly on In...

A Capitol Hill staffer once told me: "Comms [communications] IS policy." How do congressional communications influence policymaking? In this two-part episode, Sherman reconnects with Sarah Selip, whom he had the opportunity to learn from and work with during his internship with former Rep. Jody Hice (R-GA) in early 2021. An emerging leader for women looking to serve in DC, Selip is the founder of 917 Strategies and a former congressional communications director who has an extensive background in conservative politics. Hear more about her past day in the life of working for Members of Congress and the opportunities and challenges of...

How did the first U.S. Senator with an abolitionist platform speak on the Senate floor? Hear excerpts from New Hampshire Senator John P. Hale's speech in support of a DC emancipation bill in 1862 and learn more about his public service career and accomplishments (including an interesting fact about his daughter Lucy).

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Happy 2024! Welcome to another year of Friends & Fellow Citizens!
 
 As technology rapidly develops, how can we develop and protect consumer welfare? Tirzah Duren, Technology Director of the American Consumer Institute Center for Citizen Research, discusses how issues like antitrust, data privacy, and AI will shape the policy debates in an age of polarization and rapid technological advancement.
 
 Learn more about ACI at theamericanconsumer.org!
Learn more about Tirzah's work on technology policy!

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As revolutionary as the Signers were, few were as revolutionary as Abraham Clark. Hear how this Signer from New Jersey advocated for "true policy" in his home state and ideals for a diverse economy, accountable legislature, faith, and justice.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone! See you next year in 2024 with plenty more content to come!

Music Credits: 
"Joy to the World" by DIXIDD (AudioJungle)

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Many people regard Ulysses S. Grant as a great Union General but lackluster President. But isn't there more to this American hero's story? Dr. Anne Marshall, Executive Director of the Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library, shares more about the successes and imperfections of our 18th President and the mission and vision of this unique presidential library located at Mississippi State University in Starkville, MS.

Learn more about the presidential library before your visit at usgrantlibrary.org!

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The U.S. presidential election of 1836 was anything but normal, especially if one was a member of the Whig Party. Although the Whigs nearly prevailed, unity within the party was a disaster. Nearly 200 years later, can the 1836 election teach candidates now and the future about party unity and disunity? With under a year until the 2024 presidential election, learn about the Whigs' strange campaign strategy and Sherman's thoughts on candidacies.

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U.S.-China relations are at tense levels and will define the course of the international order for decades to come. But what are the historical episodes that have led us to this point? Do our leaders understand this complex history between China and rest of the world? Dr. Jeffrey Crean, a history professor and author, provides deeper insight into how the perceptions and fears of the 'Central Kingdom' have not only shaped China, but  also other countries' understanding (and lack of it) that still affect foreign policy today.
 
 Check out Dr. Crean's book The Fear of Chi...

Known as "Honest John," John Hart was regarded for his authenticity and dedication to the patriotic cause. Learn how this farmer from New Jersey participated in public service for nearly 30 years and lessons to learn about this Signer from The Garden State!

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Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org to sign up for our e-mail list! The site is the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute!
JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level!

IMPORTANT NOTE/DISCLAIMER: All...

With so much division, misinformation, and fear-mongering on environmental issues, Americans have found it difficult to weather the contemporary political ecosystem. So what policy solutions are there that can make our natural and political environment sustainable? Stephen Perkins, former VP of Grassroots Strategy at the American Conservation Coalition (now Chief Operating Officer as of this episode's release), shares how bipartisan ideas can focus on the real issues facing our environment and unite people from different ideologies on a greener and more sustainable planet.

Learn more about the ACC at acc.eco!
Instagram: @acc_national
X...

As another year of Friends & Fellow Citizens passes, Sherman provides a recap of the interview episodes since September 2022.

22 years ago, America experienced a tragedy that would change the country and the world instantly. As yet another year passes since 9/11, Sherman offers some brief thoughts about the significance of America's yearly reflection on this unforgettable day. We will always honor the American first responders on September 11th who became historic heroes in our nation's history.

"Adventures in Adventureland" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/<...

The U.S. faces unprecedented drug addiction and trafficking crises that is intricately connected to law enforcement, foreign policy, and social factors. How extensive have these crises been regarding U.S. foreign policy in Latin America? Dr. Aileen Teague joins the program to share her views on the transnational drug trafficking and preview how complex the causes and solutions are to these ever-changing issues.

Click here for Dr. Teague's Bush School faculty profile

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When people think of the U.S. flag design, they often think of Betsy Ross...but not Francis Hopkinson. Hear how this Founder with artistic skills encountered a major bureaucratic obstacle in the young Congress and how his writing analogized the patriot cause of the American Revolution.

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Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org to sign up for our e-mail list! The site is the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute!
JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level!
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Listen to Part 1 HERE!

What goes into the process of podcasting? After nearly three years since Friends & Fellow Citizens began, this special, two-part, two-way interview episode features Sherman and fellow podcaster Francisco Kilgore, who hosts his own program "Hello Sonoma!". Both provide deeper insight into the podcast production process, including tips on how to start and maintain your own podcast!

Check out Francisco's podcast "Hello Sonoma!"

Helpful podcast links to get started and/or learn more: