### SHOW NOTES

**Title:** How to create a more civil society: Encore Episode with author Alexandra Hudson

**Episode:** 297  ENCORE BONUS EPISODE

**Guest:** Alexandra Hudson

**THIS WEEK’S TOPIC:**

In a world increasingly plagued by social and personal alienation, where loneliness manifests in widespread division and public life fragmentation, how do we heal? This week’s conversation with thought leader and author  Alexandra Hudson offers profound insights into how we can mend our divided society. 

Hudson passionately argues that fixing these deep-seated issues requires more than just robust democratic institutions. She emphasizes the power of individual and voluntary acts in promoting social healing, stressing the paramount importance of hospitality and civil society.

**ABOUT THIS WEEK’S GUEST:**

Alexandra Hudson is an author, entrepreneur, and the force behind Civic Renaissance, a publication dedicated to reviving time-tested wisdom for contemporary living. Raised by an exceptionally hospitable and kind mother and an introverted, multicultural father, Hudson’s upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for civility, other-orientedness, and lifelong learning. Her work, including her books, seek to bridge divides by fostering conversations that highlight common human values across various religious and philosophical traditions.

**KEY TOPICS AND WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:**

**THE VALUE OF CIVILITY OVER POLITENESS:**   

Hudson distinguishes civility from mere politeness, advocating for robust truth-telling and respectful dialogue as essential tools for a healthy democracy.

**PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY IN SOCIAL HEALING:**  

The episode underscores the importance of individual actions in fostering a more connected society. Simple acts of hospitality, open-minded dialogues, and role-modeling respectful behavior can have profound impacts.

**COMMON HUMAN STRUGGLES ACROSS CULTURES:**  

Hudson shares captivating observations on how different religious and philosophical traditions, despite diverse practices, recognize and advocate overcoming inherent human selfishness for a good life.

**REVIVING PAST WISDOM FOR MODERN LIFE:**  

Hudson’s work with Civic Renaissance and her forthcoming book highlights the importance of lifelong learning and the application of historical wisdom to address today’s challenges.

**IMPACT OF PERSONAL UPBRINGING:**  

Hudson’s reflections on her upbringing provide valuable insights into how familial examples of hospitality, kindness, and a culture of learning can shape one’s approach to civility and societal contribution.

This episode is packed with thought-provoking ideas and personal reflections that prompt us to consider our own roles in creating a more civil and connected society. Be sure to listen and share your thoughts with me. 

**LINKS MENTIONED IN EPISODE 297:**

Lexi’s book:

hardcover: Alexandra Hudson’s Book: “The Soul of Civility: timeless  Principles to Heal Society and Ourselves” 

audible: https://amzn.to/4bOU9pd

kindle: https://amzn.to/4dbugkB

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TOPICS BY TIMECODE:

00:00 Building influence through civility and self-love.

03:37 Navigating self-interest, balancing goals, and personal identity.

08:13 Expressing differing views difficult due to cancel culture.

12:25 Extreme hostility and extreme politeness are similar.

14:37 Individuals have power to be part of change.

17:59 Social, personal alienation, and Hannah Arendt’s insights.

21:04 Mother is kind, gracious, and caring. Enjoys hosting.

24:31 Choosing selflessness creates a virtuous ripple.

28:55 Ancient texts emphasize restraining self for happiness.

31:51 Questioning societal norms and human flourishing exploration.

34:50 Various traditions reinforce similar ethical and philosophical truths.

39:48 Seeking knowledge, engaging wonder, and understanding others.

41:26 Enjoy Lexi Hudson’s book, episode 297 feedback.