Revolutionary Optimism Podcast

In this episode of Revolutionary Optimism, host Dr. Paul Zeitz sits down with renowned activist and strategist Srđa Popović, co-founder of Center for Applied Non-Violent Actions and Strategies: CANVAS, and leader of the Otpor! movement that ousted Serbian dictator Slobodan Milošević. Srđa shares gripping stories from his activism journey, including the innovative use of humor and nonviolent tactics that mobilized millions and baffled authoritarian forces.From facing intense personal risks to building a movement that empowered ordinary people to resist oppression, Srđa's insights illuminate the power of collective action. Together, they discuss the parallels between global struggles for democracy and the current state of American politics, offering practical advice for fostering social movements, countering authoritarianism, and using technology as a tool for change. Srđa offers heartfelt advice for loving democracy each day, which is the key to its success.  Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

In this episode, Dr. Zeitz sits down with political thought leader Nick Coccoma to explore bold visions for transforming democracy in the United States. From his deep-rooted experiences in a tight-knit community to his journey through theology, philosophy, and democratic innovation, Nick shares his perspective on how citizens' assemblies and sortition-based democracy could rejuvenate self-governance, mitigate corruption, and safeguard against authoritarianism. Dive into a discussion on why our current political framework is faltering, the potential of lottery-based democratic systems, and the idea of a national people's convention to create a new constitutional framework. With pragmatic steps for change and a call to action for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, July 2026, this conversation unlocks the political imagination and inspires revolutionary optimism.Tune in and join the movement for a reimagined democracy. Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

Dr. Paul Zeitz is joined by Ann Pettifor, a trailblazing economist and author known for her pivotal work on sovereign debt and the Green New Deal. Ann shares her journey from apartheid South Africa to becoming a leading advocate for reconstructing the “global casino” into a new financial system that serves people and the planet. Together, they explore the unruly Wall Street controlled financial system that drives inequality, the climate emergency, and democratic erosion, highlighting the urgent need for solidarity and systemic change. Discover how Ann's faith in humanity fuels her Revolutionary Optimism and learn how we can challenge extractive capitalism and build a just, sustainable future.  Note: This episode was recorded before the results of the 2024 Election were known. Check out Ann's System Change blog. Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

In this episode, Terry Bouricius, prominent political theorist and former Vermont legislator, highlights the shortcomings of traditional electoral systems in achieving true demographic representation and effective decision-making. Drawing from his experiences in legislative bodies, Bouricius emphasizes the disconnect between lawmakers and the populations they serve, particularly evident in his work on a landlord-tenant bill. Inspired by his participation in a Citizens Assembly in British Columbia, Bouricius advocates for sortition-based democracy as a more democratic alternative to elections. He points to successful implementations of sortition in countries like Ireland, where citizens' assemblies have led to significant reforms, showcasing the potential for ordinary citizens to reach consensus on complex issues. Bouricius's push for sortition aims to reduce political polarization by gradually transferring policy decisions from elected officials to randomly selected juries, promoting a more inclusive and representative form of governance. Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

In this episode, Dr. Zeitz sits down with Sam Daley-Harris, a renowned author, activist, and founder of Results, an organization focused on ending poverty and promoting social justice. Sam shares the journey that led him from the world of music to advocating for global change, and why he updated his groundbreaking book, Reclaiming Our Democracy, for today's political climate. Together, they explore how ordinary citizens can drive transformational change through grassroots advocacy, and how embracing a love-centered approach to activism is key to overcoming cynicism and despair. Sam reveals his insights on "transformational advocacy" and the missing piece in our democracy: us. Tune in to hear how you can reclaim your power, get in touch with your “why,” and be part of the movement for a just, peaceful, and thriving future.Stay in touch with Sam here, or get his book here. Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

In this special episode of the Emergency Opportunity Podcast (EOP), Dr. Zeitz unveils the call for a US Declaration of Interdependence and calls for an open National People's Convention to find new leaders and heal the nation's divides. As the country faces unprecedented challenges—from political instability to social injustice—he calls for a collective commitment to constitutional renewal and transformative action, emphasizing the importance of rising in peaceful resistance and building a movement grounded in love and unity. Learn about the urgent need for constitutional renewal to place love at the center of our American society.  Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

Dr. Zeitz and Reverend Redeem Robinson are shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of grassroots advocacy in the modern era. After delving into their shared experiences of activism, including their arrest for demanding climate action at the White House, they address the pressing issues of voter apathy, the complexities of the 2024 election landscape and the need for reparations for African Americans. With candor and urgency, they examine the need for transformative change in American politics and offer practical strategies for mobilizing communities toward a more just and equitable future. Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

Join Dr. Zeitz in this enlightening episode of Revolutionary Optimism as he engages in a heartfelt conversation with renowned author, speaker, and activist Lisa Sharon Harper. Explore the intersection of faith and justice as Lisa shares her journey on racial equity and liberation theology. From transformative experiences on a peace pilgrimage in Israel/Palestine to confronting injustice in Ferguson, Lisa delves into the power of truth-telling, repentance, and repair in building a more equitable world. Discover how her book, Fortune, helped spark a movement for radical reparations and truth-telling as leaders and activists unified in a powerful call for action. Don't miss out on this inspiring dialogue filled with hope, courage, and the vision of healing and unity for a better tomorrow.  Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

In this episode, Dr. Paul Zeitz sits down with Ellen Goldstein, a former World Bank director with over three decades of experience in international development. With a focus on fostering democracy, economic development, social inclusion and conflict resolution, Goldstein shares her insights on navigating complex revolutionary times in Myanmar when the world hoped that democracy would take hold, and then it collapsed.Discover how Goldstein's commitment to aid effectiveness and policy dialogue drives her advocacy for equitable solutions for the most vulnerable people. From her groundbreaking work in Myanmar to her thought-provoking book, "Damned If You Do," Goldstein offers her perspective on the universal struggle with foreign aid and the quest for transformative change in international development drawing on her decades of foreign aid leadership roles in countries across Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe. Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

In this empowering episode, Dr. Paul Zeitz (he/him) engages in a riveting conversation with Sarah Gardner, Lennon Torres, and Leah Juliett, three remarkable leaders at the forefront of the fight against child sexual abuse material and technology-facilitated gender-based violence. As CEO of the HEAT Initiative, Sarah Gardner (she/her) shares insights into their mission to demand action from Apple, Meta and other leading technology companies and create a safer digital space for children. Lennon Torres (she/her), a passionate advocate and transgender champion, discusses her journey and the importance of intersectional activism. Leah Juliett (they/them), a survivor and spoken word poet, delivers a moving performance of their powerful poem, shedding light on their personal healing journey and the urgency for action. Together, they reflect on recent milestones, including a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing and Mark Zuckerberg's apology, emphasizing the need for tangible change and interpartisan collaboration. Tune in to be inspired and motivated to join the movement for justice and accountability.  Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

Join Dr. Paul Zeitz and distinguished author, sociologist, and professor Dr. Marcus Anthony Hunter in a thought-provoking conversation that explores the vision of radical reparations and global perspectives on racial equity. Dr. Hunter shares insights from his new book, "Radical Reparations: Healing the Soul of a Nation," weaving together stories that transcend time and space, challenging the conventional narratives of oppression and envisioning a future of transformative justice.Discover the key elements of an innovative legislative vision for racial equity as Dr. Hunter provides an update on the proposed Racial Equity Omnibus Legislation, uniting diverse policies under the common themes of reparative justice, truth, and transformation. Gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of political, intellectual, legal, economic, spiritual, spatial, and social reparations, as they form the foundation of a united front for change.Don't miss the inspiring discussion on the upcoming Equity March in DC on June 15th, where the vision for a multigenerational, transformative experience intersects with the call for accountability and action. Join the movement, amplify the voices of leaders, artists, and activists, and step into a future where revolutionary optimism fuels the collective pursuit of equity, justice, and peace. Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

In this special episode of the Emergency Opportunity Podcast, Dr. Zeitz delves into the urgent call for President Biden to step aside in the 2024 presidential race and make way for an open democratic convention. Join the #unifyUSA movement and Landslide PAC's revolutionary optimism to reshape the future of the United States. Discover why an open convention is proposed, the risks involved, and the historical significance and precedence of such a move. Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

Join host Dr. Paul Zeitz in a captivating conversation with activist and author Rivera Sun on this episode of Revolutionary Optimism. Explore Rivera Sun's transformative journey, from dancer to leading nonviolent movements, as they discuss the roots of activism and the challenges facing the U.S. in the midst of an authoritarian takeover of our feeble democracy.Delve into the ripening conditions for peaceful revolution in 2024. The episode explores potential scenarios, and addresses the threat of suspending the U.S. 1.0 Constitution and increasing risks of political violence. Discover insights into grassroots democracy movements, revolutions that fail, and the importance of respecting diverse perspectives.As the 2024 election approaches, gain valuable perspectives on active citizenship, strategic movements, and the pursuit of true democracy in these tumultuous times. Tune in for an inspiring exploration of revolutionary optimism and building a real democracy right here in the US. Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

In this Emergency Opportunity Podcast (EOP), we reflect on the trials and triumphs of the past year and explore the profound insights shared by our diverse array of guests. Dr. Zeitz discusses the powerful lessons learned from Rep. Barbara Lee, Democratic Presidential Candidate Marianne Williamson, Rabbi Shefa Gold, and Congressman Jamie Raskin. He emphasizes the urgency to address the climate emergency and advocates for a four-pronged climate transformation. He shares insights from direct action organizations like Climate Defiance and encourages listeners to join the movement for renewable energy and climate restoration.Dr. Zeitz passionately advocates for a peaceful revolution, putting love at the center of our social, economic, and political systems for collective repair, justice, and peace. As we stand at a crossroads between repair and destruction, Dr. Zeitz invites listeners to choose revolutionary optimism. Join us in 2024 as we build a sacred community, explore ways of building power, and work together to create a peaceful world. Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

In this episode, Dr. Paul Zeitz engages in a heart-to-heart with Congressman Jamie Raskin, a dedicated public servant and prominent figure in American politics. Join them as they discuss the pressing challenges facing American democracy, the looming threat of authoritarianism, and the urgent need for constitutional renewal and transformation.Discover Congressman Raskin's insights on the current state of the Constitution, his perspective on the January 6th events, and the ongoing struggle against forces that seek to undermine democratic values. Gain inspiration from his unwavering commitment to defending and strengthening American democracy, and learn about the vital reforms needed for a more just and inclusive future.If you're passionate about democracy, justice, and the future of America, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready to be informed, inspired, and equipped with the tools to navigate the constitutional crossroads we find ourselves at in these transformative times. Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

In this heartwarming episode, Dr. Paul Zeitz welcomes special guest Kristine Carlson to discuss her mission to inspire happiness and kindness in today's youth. Kristine, co-author of the "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff" series, shares her personal journey of resilience and joy after experiencing the profound loss of her husband, Dr. Richard Carlson. Discover how her his legacy lives on through her work with Challenge Day, a program focused on connecting and transforming the lives of young individuals, and her exciting initiative, "Don't Sweat Changemaker," aimed at empowering kids to lead with love and kindness and fostering acts of change in their communities. Tune in to learn more about this inspiring program and how you can help a future where happiness and kindness are guiding lights for our youth.For more information and to support her initiatives, visit Kristine’s website at www.kristinecarlson.com. Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

Join Dr. Paul Zeitz for an enlightening conversation with Aditi Juneja as she shares her inspiring journey from the granddaughter of refugees to a leading democracy reformer. Discover how she's dedicated her life to strengthening the United States’ democracy and transforming it for the better. Explore her visionary initiative, Democracy 2076, which aims to reshape the foundations of democracy, reimagine political storytelling in Hollywood, and prepare for the political realignment of the future. Get insights into the critical work of creating pro-democracy political parties that will shape the future of American politics. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on the path to a resilient and inclusive democracy for 2076! Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

In this special Emergency Opportunity Podcast, Dr. Paul Zeitz is introducing #UnifyUSA, a groundbreaking movement with the power to transform our social, economic, and political systems. Dr. Zeitz passionately diagnoses the current state of the United States, highlighting the constitutional rot that has plagued the nation for centuries. He calls for a peaceful revolution with love at the center and invites all justice-hearted individuals, regardless of background, to unite and propose constitutional amendments for renewal and transformation. Discover how you can be part of this historic moment and contribute to a more perfect union. Tune in now and join the movement! Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

In this episode, Dr. Zeitz is talking with Daniella Ballou-Aares, Founder and CEO of the Leadership Now Project, a national membership organization of business and thought leaders committed to addressing and rejuvenating American democracy. They’re discussing her journey from the corporate world to the heart of American democracy, shedding light on her pivotal role in co-founding the Leadership Now Project. As a passionate advocate for change, she shares her vision for revitalizing American democracy and offers invaluable insights into the systemic reforms, cultural shifts, and transformative policies needed to strengthen our democratic institutions. A cross-partisan movement of business leaders is playing a critical role in protecting democracy for everyone.  Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing American democracy today, and discover how Daniella Ballou-Aares and the Leadership Now Project are working to create a brighter and more resilient future for all Americans. Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.

In this eye-opening episode, join Dr. Zeitz as he welcomes Margaret Klein Salamon, the passionate author of the second edition of "Facing the Climate Emergency: How to Transform Yourself with Climate Truth,” and Rabbi Arthur Waskow, founder of the Shalom Center and a renowned spiritual leader and historian, as they dive deeply into the urgent call for collective action to combat the worst effects of climate change and discuss the concept of going "all in for all life.”Dr. Zeitz and Margaret explore the magnitude of the climate crisis, the importance of peaceful mobilization, and the need for immediate and bold transformational action. They reflect on the current state of global climate emergency declarations and the critical role of governments, corporations, and individuals in addressing this crisis, and how Margaret's groundbreaking work has shaped the climate mobilization movement and influenced governments and organizations worldwide.Rabbi Arthur, with his unique blend of spiritual insight and historical expertise, shares his wisdom on the possibilities that lie ahead by analyzing the pivotal moment we find ourselves in within US history and the global context of the climate crisis. He explores the significance of the term "auspicious moment" in our current climate, drawing parallels between ancient rituals and the potential sacrifice of our planet by corporate interests, and delves into the intersection of spirituality and history, emphasizing the universal teachings of love and justice that can shape a more compassionate constitution for the United States.Tune in for thought-provoking conversations to find inspiration to take action in these critical times, and discover how history and spirituality can guide us toward a more sustainable and equitable future. Get your copy of Revolutionary Optimism: Seven Steps for Living as a Love-Centered-Activist here!Are you ready to #unify? Learn more about the transformational movement at www.unifymovements.org.Revolutionary Optimism is hosted by Dr. Paul Zeitz and produced by Earfluence.