All American Why

All American Why
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Politics

All American Why is a podcast for Excessive Thinkers, people who still give a damn about the country and believe curiosity is a civic responsibility. Each episode tackles a single big question about America, inviting nuance, critical thinking, and real conversation in a time of oversimplification. The show creates space for learning, reflection, and the occasional patriotic spiral, all rooted in the idea that critique is a form of care. 

  1. Aug 7

    Why Isn't Every Corporation in America Accountable to People and the Planet?

    In this episode of All American Why, Michael begins by sharing why this question matters to him as a business attorney who believes business can be a powerful force for good. He then talks with Tom Hering and Kim Allchurch-Flick about the evolution of corporations, the purpose of business, and how different approaches to corporate governance can shape our economy and society. Together, they explore whether we have designed capitalism in a way that reflects the values and outcomes we want to encourage.  Guest InformationTom Hering, Co-Founder & Managing Partner ofBenefit Corporations for Goodhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-hering-9829727/ Kim Allchurch-Flick, Founder of Mighty Measurehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kimallchurchflick/ Leaders and advocates in the Benefit Company and Certified B Corporation movement, helping businesses align profit with purpose, accountability, and long-term impact. Recording and ProductionRecorded at: Michael’s Office in SE Portland, OregonOriginal Music: Rainezra (@rainezra) and Vews (@pointofvews)Audio Editing by: Kye Gilmer (@residual_audio) Learn More / SourcesThe following materials were referenced or informed this episode. Links are provided for transparency and further reading. The Social Responsibility of Business Is to Increase Its Profits (Milton Friedman, 1970)The landmark essay that helped popularize shareholder primacy and influenced modern corporate governance.https://www.nytimes.com/1970/09/13/archives/a-friedman-doctrine-the-social-responsibility-of-business-is-to.html Dodge v. Ford Motor Co. (1919)The Michigan Supreme Court decision frequently cited in discussions of shareholder primacy and corporate purpose. https://law.justia.com/cases/michigan/supreme-court/1919/170-n-w-668-2.htmlThe Shareholder Value Myth – Lynn Stout Examines the legal and economic misconceptions surrounding shareholder primacy. https://www.bkconnection.com/books/title/the-shareholder-value-mythCannibals with Forks – John ElkingtonIntroduced and popularized the Triple Bottom Line framework of People, Planet, and Profit. https://www.johnelkington.com/archive/TBL-elkington-chapter.pdfBenefit Corporations for Good An affordable certification for purpose-driven businesses committed to people, planet, and profit.https://benefitcorporationsforgood.com/B Lab InternationalThe nonprofit organization that administers the Certified B Corporation certification. https://www.bcorporation.net/Model Benefit Corporation LegislationThe model legislation used as the basis for benefit corporation statutes across the United States. https://benefitcorp.net/Oregon Benefit Company StatutesOregon's laws governing Benefit Companies. https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors060.htmlWashington Benefit Corporation ActWashington's statutes governing Benefit Corporations. https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=23B.25Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission (2010)The U.S. Supreme Court decision expanding protections for independent political expenditures. https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/558/310/Federal Election Commission: Independent ExpendituresExplains campaign finance rules governing independent political spending. https://www.fec.gov/help-candidates-and-committees/making-independent-expenditures/OpenSecretsTracks lobbying, campaign finance, Super PAC spending, and political influence.https://www.opensecrets.org/Economic Policy Institute: CEO CompensationResearch documenting long-term trends in CEO pay relative to typical worker compensation. https://www.epi.org/publication/ceo-pay-in-2023/Congressional Budget OfficeIndependent analyses of federal tax policy, deficits, and economic trends. https://www.cbo.gov/Congressional Research ServiceNonpartisan reports on tax policy, corporate governance, and economic issues.https://crsreports.congress.gov/Federal Reserve Distributional Financial AccountsData on wealth distribution and household balance sheets in the United States. https://www.federalreserve.gov/releases/z1/dataviz/dfa/Bureau of Economic AnalysisOfficial U.S. economic statistics including GDP, corporate profits, and national income. https://www.bea.gov/OECD Corporate Governance ResourcesInternational comparisons of corporate governance and economic policy. https://www.oecd.org/corporate/ Germany's Codetermination SystemOverview of employee representation on corporate supervisory boards.https://www.boeckler.de/en/codetermination-3494.htmFrance's "Entreprise à Mission"Overview of France's legal framework allowing companies to adopt a public-purpose mission.https://www.economie.gouv.fr/entreprises/entreprise-mission European Union Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence DirectiveEuropean rules requiring large companies to address human rights and environmental impacts throughout their supply chains.  https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/doing-business-eu/corporate-sustainability-due-diligence_enThe Anarchy – William DalrympleHistory of the British East India Company and its role in colonialism and corporate power.  https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/anarchy-9781635573954/The Corporation That Changed the World – Nick RobinsA history of the British East India Company and its lasting influence on global commerce.https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300240986/the-corporation-that-changed-the-world/

    Why Isn't Every Corporation in America Accountable to People and the Planet?

  2. Aug 1

    Why Do Americans Trust Punishment More Than Rehabilitation and What is the Prison Industrial Complex?

    Michael sits down with former Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt for a thoughtful conversation about the purpose of prison, the prison industrial complex, public safety, rehabilitation, recidivism, race, addiction, and the difficult decisions prosecutors make every day. Together, they explore what justice is meant to accomplish, when prison is necessary, where rehabilitation works, and what it would take to build a criminal justice system that better protects communities while reducing future crime. Check out Mike Schmidt's podcast "Schmidt Show PDX." Guest InformationMike Schmidt (He/Him)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SchmidtShowPDX/Subscribe/Listen on Substack: https://www.schmidtshowpdx.com/Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-schmidt-show-pdx/id1814153508LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-schmidt-28664043/ Recording and ProductionThis Episode Recorded at: Michael's officeOriginal Music: Rainezra (@rainezra) and Vews (@pointofvews)Audio Editing: Kye Gilmer (@residual_audio)Filming & Social Media: Nate Kersey (@natekersey) Learn More / Sources The following reports, organizations, and resources informed this episode and are provided for transparency and further reading. Criminal Justice Data & Research Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) – National statistics on incarceration, prisons, jails, sentencing, and recidivism.https://bjs.ojp.gov/National Institute of Justice (NIJ) – Research on rehabilitation, corrections, sentencing, recidivism, and evidence-based criminal justice practices.https://nij.ojp.gov/The Sentencing Project – Research on sentencing policy, mass incarceration, racial disparities, and criminal justice reform.https://www.sentencingproject.org/Prison Policy Initiative – Research and data on incarceration, jail populations, probation, parole, and the prison system.https://www.prisonpolicy.org/ RAND Corporation – Research on prison education, vocational training, rehabilitation, and recidivism.https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RR266.htmlNational Reentry Resource Center – Resources and research on successful reentry after incarceration.https://nationalreentryresourcecenter.org/ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – Information on addiction treatment, recovery, and behavioral health.https://www.samhsa.gov/National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) – Research on substance use disorders and evidence-based treatment.https://nida.nih.gov/Oregon Department of Corrections – Information on Oregon's prison system, rehabilitation programs, and reentry services.https://www.oregon.gov/docOregon Criminal Justice Commission – Research, sentencing data, and criminal justice policy in Oregon.https://www.oregon.gov/cjcMultnomah County District Attorney's Office – Information about the role and responsibilities of the District Attorney's Office.https://www.mcda.us/Equal Justice Initiative – Research on the history of race, incarceration, convict leasing, and the American criminal justice system.https://eji.org/13th Amendment - Read more about the 13th amendment here. https://www.history.com/articles/thirteenth-amendmentThe National Academies of Sciences – The Growth of Incarceration in the United States – Comprehensive examination of the causes and consequences of mass incarceration.https://nap.nationalacademies.org/catalog/18613/the-growth-of-incarceration-in-the-united-states-exploring-causesAdditional Reading Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander Locked In: The True Causes of Mass Incarceration and How to Achieve Real Reform by John Pfaff

  3. Jul 21

    Why Do We Expect Nonprofits to Solve Society's Biggest Problems Without the Same Resources as For Profit Businesses?

    Nonprofits are expected to solve some of society's biggest challenges, yet we rarely support them like we do other businesses. Michael sits down with longtime nonprofit leader Scott Kerman to explore why one of Oregon's largest industries lacks the same infrastructure, technical assistance, and investment that entrepreneurs and for-profit businesses receive. Together, they discuss the growing role nonprofits play in delivering public services, the challenges facing nonprofit leaders, and what it would take to build an ecosystem that helps these organizations thrive instead of simply survive. Guest InformationScott Kerman (He/Him)Nonprofit Executive and Public Sector LeaderLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-kerman-pdx/ Recording and ProductionThis Episode Recorded at: Michael's Narwhal Law and Business Strategy OfficeOriginal Music: Rainezra @rainezra and Vews @pointofvewsAudio Editing by: Kye Gilmer @residual_audioFilming/Socials by: Nate Kersey @@natekersey  Learn More / SourcesThe following materials were referenced or informed this episode. Links are provided for transparency and further reading. Overview of the U.S. nonprofit sector, including economic impact, employment, and charitable organizations.https://independentsector.org/resource/health-of-the-u-s-nonprofit-sector/National Center for Charitable Statistics data on nonprofit organizations in the United States.https://nccs.urban.org/Independent Sector's annual Health of the U.S. Nonprofit Sector report.https://independentsector.org/resource/health-of-the-u-s-nonprofit-sector/Oregon Department of Justice Charitable Activities Section, which regulates charitable organizations operating in Oregon.https://www.doj.state.or.us/charitable-activities/Oregon Secretary of State resources for nonprofit corporations.https://sos.oregon.gov/business/Pages/nonprofit.aspxBusiness Oregon's programs supporting businesses, entrepreneurship, innovation, exports, and economic development.https://www.oregon.gov/bizProsper Portland's Office of Small Business and economic development initiatives.https://prosperportland.us/U.S. Small Business Administration overview of business assistance, financing, and technical support.https://www.sba.gov/America's Small Business Development Center Network.https://americassbdc.org/SCORE volunteer mentoring and business education programs.https://www.score.org/Oregon Innovation Hub Network supporting entrepreneurs and commercialization throughout the state.https://www.oregon.gov/biz/programs/innovationOregon Entrepreneurs Network supporting startups through education, networking, and mentorship.https://www.oen.org/MESO (Micro Enterprise Services of Oregon), providing business education and technical assistance to entrepreneurs.https://meso.org/Xcelerate Women supporting women entrepreneurs through education, mentorship, and networking.https://xceleratewomen.org/Nonprofit Association of Oregon (NAO) – Oregon's statewide nonprofit membership organization providing advocacy, policy leadership, governance resources, research, training, networking, and capacity-building for charitable nonprofits across the state.https://nonprofitoregon.org/The People's Nonprofit Accelerator – Professional development organization offering affordable education, executive leadership training, fundraising certificates, peer learning, networking, and capacity-building for nonprofit professionals throughout Oregon.https://thepeoplesnonprofit.org/National Council of Nonprofits overview of nonprofit governance, fiduciary duties, and board responsibilities.https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/IRS guidance for tax-exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3).https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profitsIRS Life Cycle of a Public Charity compliance overview.https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/charitable-organizations/life-cycle-of-a-public-charityNational Council of Nonprofits resources on nonprofit financial sustainability and organizational resilience.https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/Multnomah County Homeless Services Department and contracted service providers.https://www.multco.us/homelessnessOregon Health Authority information on community-based behavioral health services.https://www.oregon.gov/ohaOregon Department of Human Services overview of partnerships with community organizations delivering public services.https://www.oregon.gov/odhsUrban Institute research on the economic impact of nonprofit organizations.https://www.urban.org/Johns Hopkins Center for Civil Society Studies research on the nonprofit sector and civil society.https://ccss.jhu.edu/

  4. Mar 30

    Why Are We So Obsessed with Heated Rivalry and Will You Come to My Cottage This Summer?

    Thank you to everyone who helped bring this episode together. And, we'll meet you at the cottage!  Guest Information Stacy Brewster (He/Him)Author of What We Pick Up, screenwriter, creative coach, and workshop facilitatorhttps://www.stacybrewster.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-brewster-1b0148/https://www.instagram.com/stacybrew/ Recording and ProductionRecorded at: XRAY.FM Studios Original Music: Rainezra @rainezra and Vews @pointofvewsAudio Editing by: Kye Gilmer @residual_audioLearn More/SourcesThe following materials were referenced or informed this episode. Links are provided for transparency and further reading. The Celluloid Closet by Vito Russo Foundational book on how Hollywood historically portrayed LGBTQ+ characters through coding, villainization, and tragedy https://www.ucpress.edu/book/9780520250817/the-celluloid-closet GLAAD Studio Responsibility IndexAnnual report tracking LGBTQ+ representation in film and television and how it has evolved over timehttps://www.glaad.org/sri “The Hays Code” – American Film InstituteOverview of the Motion Picture Production Code and its explicit censorship of queer stories in Hollywood beginning in 1934https://www.afi.com/news/the-hays-code/ Bechdal TestA measure of the representation of women in film and other fictionhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bechdel_test “Ellen DeGeneres Comes Out” – Time (1997 cover story) Historic mainstream coming-out moment and the backlash that followed https://time.com/4728994/ellen-degeneres-coming-out-cover/ Outsports – LGBTQ+ Athletes Coverage Ongoing reporting and data on openly LGBTQ+ athletes, including the continued absence of openly gay male players in major leagues like the National Hockey League https://www.outsports.comCanadian Content Regulations – Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission Explains how Canadian media funding structures support culturally driven and diverse storytelling https://crtc.gc.ca/eng/cancon.htmBrokeback Mountain – Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences overview Landmark queer film that helped shift mainstream visibility while still reflecting tragedy-based storytelling https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/2006Variety – Industry & Viewership Reporting Entertainment industry reporting on streaming performance and audience data, including coverage relevant to Heated Rivalry https://variety.com“The Celluloid Closet” documentary (1995) Film adaptation of Vito Russo’s work with visual examples of queer coding and censorship in Hollywood https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0112651/“Queer Representation in Film and Television” – UCLA Williams Institute Research and data on LGBTQ+ visibility and representation in media https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu“LGBTQ Inclusion in Sports” – Human Rights Campaign Research and reporting on LGBTQ+ participation and inclusion in athletics https://www.hrc.org/resources/sports

  5. Mar 13

    Why Are We Still Debating Climate Change When Action Is the Only Option?

    Climate change is no longer theoretical. The measurements are clear and the impacts are already here. So why are we still debating instead of acting? Michael talks with climate activist and comedian Brian Ettling about climate communication, political will, and how ordinary people can push real change.  Guest Information Brian Ettling (He/Him)Climate Activist/Comedianhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-ettling-97853226/https://www.instagram.com/brian.ettling/https://climatechangecomedian.com/ Recording and ProductionRecorded at: XRAY.FM StudiosOriginal Music: Rainezra @rainezra and Vews @pointofvewsAudio Editing by: Kye Gilmer @residual_audioLearn More/SourcesThe following materials were referenced or informed this episode. Links are provided for transparency and further reading. Tracks global temperature trends and confirms recent years as the warmest on record.https://climate.nasa.gov/vital-signs/global-temperature/ Annual climate summary confirming record global temperatures and major climate trends.https://www.noaa.gov/news/2023-was-warmest-year-on-record Long-running measurements showing atmospheric carbon dioxide now exceeding 420 parts per million.https://gml.noaa.gov/ccgg/trends/ Historic dataset visualizing the steady rise of atmospheric carbon dioxide since the 1950s.https://keelingcurve.ucsd.edu/ Database tracking U.S. weather and climate disasters that caused more than one billion dollars in damage.https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/billions/ Global report documenting rising deaths and economic losses from extreme weather and climate disasters.https://public.wmo.int/en/resources/library/atlas-of-mortality-and-economic-losses Overview of the catastrophic 2022 floods in Pakistan that affected more than 30 million people.https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/pakistan-floods Analysis of the 2023 Canadian wildfire season and the smoke that spread across much of the United States.https://www.noaa.gov/news/record-canadian-wildfires-2023 Explains how rising sea levels are causing regular coastal flooding even without storms.https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/nuisance-flooding.html Satellite data tracking global sea level rise due to melting ice and warming oceans.https://climate.nasa.gov/vital-signs/sea-level/ Major global scientific report summarizing the causes, evidence, and impacts of climate change.https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/synthesis-report/ Report explaining how climate change is affecting infrastructure, agriculture, health, and communities in the United States.https://nca2023.globalchange.gov/ Explains the federal determination that greenhouse gases threaten public health and welfare.https://www.epa.gov/climate-change/endangerment-finding Landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision confirming that greenhouse gases can be regulated under the Clean Air Act.https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/06pdf/05-1120.pdf Overview explaining PFAS “forever chemicals” and their environmental and health risks.https://www.epa.gov/pfas Overview of global plastic pollution and how it spreads through oceans and ecosystems.https://www.unep.org/plastic-pollution Scientific research showing microplastics have been detected in human blood samples.https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412022001258 Analysis explaining how extreme weather and electrification are increasing strain on power grids.https://www.iea.org/reports/electricity-grids-and-secure-energy-transitions Analysis of how climate-related extreme weather affects agriculture and global food prices.https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/agriculture/brief/food-security-update Overview of major U.S. investments in clean energy, manufacturing, and climate technology.https://www.energy.gov/inflation-reduction-act Congressional resolution outlining a framework connecting climate action with jobs, infrastructure, and economic reform.https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-resolution/109

  6. Feb 27

    Why Are Trans People Forced to Justify Their Existence?

    Thank you to everyone who helped bring this episode together!  Guest Information Rhodes Perry (He/Him)Founder and CEO of Rhodes Perry ConsultingAuthor of Belonging at Work and Imagine Belonginghttps://www.linkedin.com/company/rhodesperryconsulting Recording and ProductionRecorded at: XRAY.FM StudiosOriginal Music: Rainezra @rainezra and Vews @pointofvewsAudio Engineer/Editor: Kyle Gilmer @residual_audioLearn More/SourcesThe following materials were referenced or informed this episode. Links are provided for transparency and further reading. Transgender and nonbinary population estimates in the U.S.This provides the widely cited estimate that about 2.8 million people in the U.S. age 13+ identify as transgender or nonbinary, and about 3.3% of teens do, and explains limitations in the data.https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/press/trans-pop-estimates-press-release/Why trans and nonbinary people are undercounted in surveysExplains gaps in data collection on sexual orientation and gender identity and why many surveys miss people or why people may not answer honestly.https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/issues/data-collection/National survey on trans adults’ lived experiences (KFF/Washington Post)Large survey covering healthcare, discrimination, safety, and daily life for trans adults in the U.S.https://www.kff.org/lgbtq/kff-the-washington-post-trans-survey/What intersex traits are and how common they are (Cleveland Clinic)Explains intersex variations and commonly cited prevalence ranges around 1 to 2 percent.https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/16324-intersexGlobal intersex awareness and human rights framing (UN Free & Equal / OHCHR)Explains intersex traits, human rights concerns, and global context.https://www.unfe.org/what-we-do/our-campaigns/intersex-awarenessHuman Rights Watch report on medically unnecessary intersex surgeries in the U.S.Documents nonconsensual surgeries on intersex infants and children and the harms caused, and shows they have continued into modern times.https://www.hrw.org/report/2017/07/25/i-want-be-nature-made-me/medically-unnecessary-surgeries-intersex-children-usHuman Rights Watch update urging an end to nonconsensual intersex surgeriesMore recent expert and human rights calls to stop these practices.https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/09/04/experts-urge-end-nonconsensual-intersex-surgeriesMarsha P. Johnson biography (Encyclopaedia Britannica)Authoritative overview of her life and role in LGBTQ+ history.https://www.britannica.com/biography/Marsha-P-JohnsonSylvia Rivera biography (Encyclopaedia Britannica)Authoritative overview of her life and activism.https://www.britannica.com/biography/Sylvia-RiveraCompton’s Cafeteria Riot historical overview (PBS)Explains the 1966 uprising by trans and gender nonconforming people in San Francisco, years before Stonewall.https://www.pbs.org/independentlens/blog/premarketplace-history-the-comptons-cafeteria-riot-made-history-years-before-stonewall The “three-article rule” and criminalization of drag and cross-dressing (History.com)Explains how police used clothing laws to arrest gender nonconforming people.https://www.history.com/articles/stonewall-riots-lgbtq-drag-three-article-ruleTimeline of anti-cross-dressing laws in the U.S. (PBS NewsHour)Shows how these laws were used historically across the country.https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/arresting-dress-timeline-anti-cross-dressing-laws-u-sTrump executive order on “gender ideology” (January 20, 2025)Official White House text declaring the federal government recognizes only two sexes.https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/Trump executive order on military policy (January 27, 2025)Directs the Department of Defense to revise policies related to gender identity and service.https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/prioritizing-military-excellence-and-readiness/Reuters reporting on Supreme Court allowing trans military ban and Hegseth quoteIncludes the “No more pronouns. No more dudes in dresses” quote and legal context.https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-supreme-court-lets-trumps-transgender-military-ban-take-effect-2025-05-06/Reuters reporting on Pentagon separation timeline for trans service membersExplains the 30 and 60 day timelines and how the policy is implemented.https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-military-start-kicking-out-transgender-troops-next-month-memo-says-2025-05-08/Military Times reporting on the impact of the separation policyCovers how many service members may be affected and how the policy works in practice.https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2025/05/08/up-to-1000-transgender-troops-being-separated-under-new-pentagon-memo/Williams Institute study on public accommodations and bathroom safetyShows that nondiscrimination laws did not increase safety incidents in Massachusetts.https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/publications/ma-public-accommodations/ABC News coverage of Nancy Mace bathroom ban effortExplains the Capitol bathroom controversy and the political context.https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/mace-effort-ban-transgender-women-capitols-womens-restrooms/story?id=116009034Animal Pride documentary program page (PBS International)Overview of the documentary about same-sex behavior, sex-changing species, and intersex traits in animals.https://pbs.org/programs/animal-pride UC Berkeley explainer on sex-changing fishExplains sequential hermaphroditism in species like clownfish and wrasses.https://evolution.berkeley.edu/fisheye-view-tree-of-life/gender-bending-fish/Natural History Museum explainer on same-sex behavior in animalsShows how widespread same-sex behavior is across many species.https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/gay-natural-history.htmlVICE reporting on Grindr usage spike during the 2016 RNCEarly reporting on increased Grindr usage around a conservative political event.https://www.vice.com/en/article/clear-vp-turnout-grindr-during-the-rnc Newsweek reporting on Grindr app spike/crash around the 2024 RNCMore recent coverage of the same phenomenon.https://www.newsweek.com/grindr-app-crashes-milwaukee-rnc-1927750Pornhub Year in Review trends coverageSecondary reporting on adult search trends including trans-related content, useful for the “public panic vs private reality” point.https://www.them.us/story/pornhub-2025-top-searches-most-viewed-lesbian-femboy-lgbt-trendsWPATH Standards of Care Version 8International clinical guidelines supporting gender affirming care.https://wpath.org/publications/soc8/Peer-reviewed article on outcomes and standards of care (PMC)Academic publication discussing standards, outcomes, and evidence base.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9553112/American Academy of Pediatrics reaffirmation of gender affirming careShows major U.S. pediatric medical body supports evidence-based care.https://publications.aap.org/aapnews/news/25340/AAP-reaffirms-gender-affirming-care-policyAmerican Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry statementProfessional organization supporting access to gender affirming healthcare.https://www.aacap.org/aacap/Policy_Statements/2024/Access_Gender-Affirming_Healthcare.aspx

  7. Feb 15

    Why Don’t Americans Acknowledge That Black History Is American History, and How Can We Change That?

    Episode InformationThank you to everyone who helped bring this episode together. And thank you to Black Americans, past and present, whose labor, creativity, leadership, and perseverance have shaped this country from its beginning. They did not just influence the United States. They helped build it and continue to move it forward. Featured VoicesKevin Cook/Poison WatersDeanna Smith Milo ReedRecording and ProductionRecorded at: XRAY.FM StudiosOriginal Music: Rainezra @rainezra and Vews @pointofvewsAudio Engineer/Editor: Kyle Gilmer @residual_audioLearn More/SourcesThe following materials were referenced or informed this episode. Links are provided for transparency and further reading. Origins of Black History Month (Carter G. Woodson, 1926, Negro History Week)https://www.zinnedproject.org/news/tdih/carter-woodson-black-history-month/Why February (Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln birthdays)https://www.britannica.com/story/why-is-black-history-month-celebrated-in-february Overview of Black History Month history and evolutionhttps://kids.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/black-history-monthPresidential recognition of Black History Month (Gerald Ford, 1976)https://ford.blogs.archives.gov/2024/02/01/recognition-of-black-history-month/Carter G. Woodson biography and missionhttps://www.naacp.org/find-resources/history-explained/civil-rights-leaders/carter-g-woodson/Slavery as a central economic system in U.S. historyhttps://www.history.com/topics/black-history/slaveryCotton and slavery’s role in building American wealthhttps://www.britannica.com/topic/cotton-tradeJim Crow laws as a legal system of segregationhttps://www.history.com/topics/early-20th-century-us/jim-crow-lawsBlack Codes and post-emancipation control systemshttps://www.history.com/topics/black-history/black-codes Convict leasing after the Civil Warhttps://www.britannica.com/topic/convict-lease-system Redlining and federal housing policy (HOLC maps, 1930s)https://www.history.com/news/housing-segregation-new-deal-programRedlining and its impact on generational wealthhttps://ncrc.org/holc-health/ Civil Rights Act of 1964https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/civil-rights-actVoting Rights Act of 1965https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/voting-rights-actFair Housing Act of 1968https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/fair_housing_act_overviewJames Baldwin quote on history and the presenthttps://www.brainpickings.org/2013/08/14/james-baldwin-history/African rice cultivation knowledge and Carolina economieshttps://www.nps.gov/articles/000/the-gullah-geechee-and-rice-culture.htmGeorge Washington Carver and sustainable agriculturehttps://www.britannica.com/biography/George-Washington-CarverHenry Blair patents (seed and cotton planters)https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/blair-henry-1807-1860/Norbert Rillieux and modern sugar refininghttps://www.britannica.com/biography/Norbert-RillieuxJan Matzeliger and shoe manufacturing automationhttps://www.britannica.com/biography/Jan-Ernst-Matzeliger Garrett Morgan and the gas mask and traffic signalhttps://www.britannica.com/biography/Garrett-A-MorganSister Rosetta Tharpe and the origins of rock and rollhttps://www.smithsonianmag.com/smithsonian-institution/sister-rosetta-tharpe-godmother-rock-n-roll-180963600/Harriet Tubman and the Combahee River Raidhttps://www.nps.gov/articles/harriet-tubman-combahee-river-raid.htmHidden Figures and Black women at NASAhttps://www.nasa.gov/feature/hidden-figures-the-women-who-helped-win-the-space-race/Audre Lorde and “the master’s tools”https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/lorde-audre-1934-1992/Angela Davis on prisons, policing, and systemic racismhttps://www.britannica.com/biography/Angela-Davis bell hooks on education and liberationhttps://www.britannica.com/biography/bell-hooksIda B. Wells and anti-lynching investigationshttps://www.britannica.com/biography/Ida-B-Wells-BarnettBlack Lives Matter movement originshttps://www.britannica.com/topic/Black-Lives-Matter

  8. Feb 5

    Why Does Comedy Matter When Everything Feels Broken?

    Episode InformationHuge thank you to everyone who helped bring this episode together. After we wrapped, I realized I forgot to shout out a few absolute legends like Carol Burnett and Mary Tyler Moore. I also didn’t get to name some of the incredible women in comedy I love and admire so much, including Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph, and Kristen Wiig. And Catherine O’Hara deserves special love too. While she isn’t a stand-up comedian, her ability to make me and so many others laugh is truly unmatched. There are honestly too many brilliant people to list, but I hope you have someone in your life who makes you laugh whether that’s a comedian you love, a family member, a coworker, or a friend. We all deserve a little more laughter.  Guest Information Belinda Carroll (She/Her), Comedian, ActivistIMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6509199/Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belinda_Carroll_(comedian)Instagram: @belindacomedyTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@belinda_comedyRecording and ProductionRecorded at: XRAY.FM StudiosOriginal Music: Rainezra @rainezra and Vews @pointofvewsAudio Engineer/Editor: Kyle Gilmer @residual_audioLearn More/SourcesThe following materials were referenced or informed this episode. Links are provided for transparency and further reading. Proverbs 17:22 (Bible)https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+17%3A22&version=NRSVUENorman Cousins, Anatomy of an Illnesshttps://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/32961/anatomy-of-an-illness-as-perceived-by-the-patient-by-norman-cousins/ Laughter and stress hormones, Berk et al., American Journal of the Medical Scienceshttps://journals.lww.com/amjmedsci/Abstract/1989/12000/Neuroendocrine_and_Stress_Hormone_Changes_During.1.aspx Mayo Clinic on stress relief from laughterhttps://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-relief/art-20044456Charlie Chaplin, Modern Times (1936)https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0027977/Great Depression unemployment data, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statisticshttps://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/2012/10/art1full.pdfMel Brooks, The Producers (1967)https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0063462/Mel Brooks on making Hitler ridiculoushttps://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/mel-brooks-on-making-hitler-ridiculous-180962498/Mark Twain lecture tours and humorhttps://www.pbs.org/marktwain/learnmore/writings_humor.html Dick Gregory biography and civil rights comedyhttps://www.biography.com/performer/dick-gregoryDick Gregory: Beyond the Laughter documentaryhttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0101688/ Lenny Bruce obscenity trialshttps://www.aclu.org/documents/trials-lenny-bruceLenny Bruce: Swear to Tell the Truth documentaryhttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120715/Bob Hope USO historyhttps://www.uso.org/stories/1942-bob-hope-and-the-usoGeorge Carlin on political languagehttps://www.openculture.com/2013/02/george_carlin_on_soft_language.htmlGeorge Carlin bookshttps://www.georgecarlin.com/books/ Richard Pryor documentary Omit the Logichttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt2486682/ Eddie Murphy Delirioushttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0085478/Eddie Murphy Rawhttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0093855/I Love Lucy “Job Switching” chocolate factory episodehttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0609194/I Love Lucy “Lucy Does a Commercial” Vitameatavegamin episodehttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0609186/Joan Rivers documentary A Piece of Workhttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt1558250/ Robin Williams Live on Broadwayhttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0303781/Mrs. Doubtfirehttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0107614/The Birdcagehttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0115685/SNL returns after 9/11https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/snl-returns-after-9-11-flna1c9462991Jon Stewart “Can we be funny?” storyhttps://www.vulture.com/2016/09/jon-stewart-snl-911-oral-history.htmlThe Daily Showhttps://www.cc.com/shows/the-daily-showFull Frontal with Samantha Beehttps://www.tbs.com/shows/full-frontal-with-samantha-beeLast Week Tonight with John Oliverhttps://www.hbo.com/last-week-tonight-with-john-oliverThe Colbert Reporthttps://www.cc.com/shows/the-colbert-reportHave I Got News for Youhttps://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006mkw3The Golden Girlshttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088526/Broad Cityhttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt2578560/Parks and Recreationhttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt1266020/Support the showAll American Why is independently produced and listener supported.If you value conversations that center nuance, critical thinking, and honest inquiry, you can support the show here:https://www.allamericanwhypodcast.com/support Another great way to support the podcast is by sharing this episode, leaving a review, or sending it to the Excessive Thinkers in your life who love asking “why” and thinking deeply.

    Why Does Comedy Matter When Everything Feels Broken?
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All American Why is a podcast for Excessive Thinkers, people who still give a damn about the country and believe curiosity is a civic responsibility. Each episode tackles a single big question about America, inviting nuance, critical thinking, and real conversation in a time of oversimplification. The show creates space for learning, reflection, and the occasional patriotic spiral, all rooted in the idea that critique is a form of care. 

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  • Creator
    All American Why
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
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    Explicit
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