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…
Defense of Democracy Podcast
by Addison K. Witt
Friends. Allies. Americans. Folks taking small steps towards big change. The Defense of Democracy podcast tells their stories. Hosted by Addison K. Witt.Defense of Democracy is made up of people from all walks of life passionately committed to nonpartisanship. We welcome anyone who is interested in protecting their fellow Americans - in particular those in marginalized communities - from oppression.We advocate for legislators, educators, and administrators who will work to maintain communities as well as a public education system that supports and enhances our shared experiences regardless of religious beliefs, cultural background, or sexual orientation.Find out more: https://defenseofdemocracy.org/Podcast produced by the Volunteers of Defense of Democracy
Latest Episodes
In this episode, Addison and Professor Bernd Feiter 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.
Support the Def…
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 religiou…
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 commun…
Have you ever wondered how deeply art reflects our true selves? Or hides behind a mask?
Jim Bidgood's story reminds us that behind every masterpiece is a complex mix of authenticity and performance. His work wasn’t just art, it was a lifeline, a way to process what he couldn't say out loud.
Bart Eve…
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…
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…
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,…
In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Karen Svoboda steps in for Addison K. Witt to interview Rachel Doyle, known as "Reads with Rachel." They discuss the challenges of book banning and the broader implications for education and democracy. Rachel shares her personal journey from …
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 h…
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…
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 b…
In this conversation, Brandt Robinson, a congressional candidate and pro-democracy advocate, discusses the importance of civic engagement and the challenges facing democracy today. He shares his journey from community activism to running for office, emphasizing the need for participatory democracy a…
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 demo…
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 understan…
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 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 con…
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 str…
In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt is joined today by writer and historian Conor Broll. Their conversation delves into the growing concerns of political radicalization and polarization, exploring how these dynamics threaten liberal values and the rule of law. C…
In this episode of the Defense of 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 mission of…