All American Why

All American Why
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  • 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. 2d ago

    Why Does the American Dream Seem Impossible and the Math Not Math?

    In this episode of All American Why, Michael asks why the American Dream seems increasingly difficult to afford. From housing, wages, healthcare, and childcare to savings, wealth, and the cost of everyday life, he looks at a basic question: does the math still work? Michael then talks with Alejandro Queral about what Oregon jobs actually pay, what families need to live securely, and what it would take to make economic security feel achievable again. Guest InformationAlejandro QueralExecutive Director, Oregon Center for Public PolicyAlejandro Queral is Executive Director of the Oregon Center for Public Policy. He brings more than 20 years of experience in advocacy and nonprofit leadership across public health, human rights, environmental policy, and philanthropy. Recording and ProductionRecorded at: Michael’s Office in SE Portland, OregonOriginal Music: Rainezra (@rainezra) and Vews (@pointofvews)Audio Editing by: Kye Gilmer (@residual_audio)Marketing by: Nate Kersey (@natekersey) Learn More / SourcesThe following materials were referenced or informed this episode. Links are provided for transparency and further reading. The Fading American Dream | Opportunity InsightsResearch on economic mobility across generations.https://opportunityinsights.org/paper/the-fading-american-dream/2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers | National Association of REALTORS®Data on first-time homebuyers and homeownership trends.https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/highlights-from-the-profile-of-home-buyers-and-sellersEconomic Well-Being of U.S. Households | Federal ReserveResearch on household finances, emergency expenses, and financial security.https://www.federalreserve.gov/consumerscommunities/shed.htmSurvey of Consumer Finances | Federal ReserveData on household income, wealth, homeownership, and net worth.https://www.federalreserve.gov/econres/scfindex.htm2025 Employer Health Benefits Survey | KFFData on employer-sponsored health insurance premiums and worker contributions.https://www.kff.org/health-costs/2025-employer-health-benefits-survey/Child Care in America | Child Care Aware of AmericaResearch on the price and availability of childcare in the United States.https://www.childcareaware.org/thechildcarestandstill/Childcare Workers | U.S. Bureau of Labor StatisticsFederal wage and employment data for childcare workers.https://www.bls.gov/ooh/personal-care-and-service/childcare-workers.htmConsumer Price Index | U.S. Bureau of Labor StatisticsFederal data on inflation and changes in consumer prices.https://www.bls.gov/cpi/Many Jobs Pay Too Little to Support a Family | Oregon Center for Public PolicyAnalysis of Oregon wages and the cost of meeting basic household needs.https://www.ocpp.org/2026/09/01/many-jobs-pay-too-little-to-support-a-family/Oregon Center for Public PolicyResearch and analysis on Oregon tax, budget, and economic policy.https://www.ocpp.org/

    Why Does the American Dream Seem Impossible and the Math Not Math?

  2. Sep 9

    Why Can't We Build A Better Primary System?

    In this episode of All American Why, Michael asks why American elections so often leave voters choosing between two major-party candidates. From primaries and independent voters to ranked-choice voting, third parties, and electoral systems around the world, the episode explores whether we could give voters more meaningful choices. Michael then talks with Tom Joseph about America’s Primary, his proposed alternative congressional nominating system. They explore how it would work, what problems it might solve, and what new challenges it could create. Guest InformationTom JosephCreator of America’s Main Street PrimaryTom Joseph developed America’s Main Street Primary as an alternative approach to congressional nominations. His appearance is an opportunity to explore the proposal and the broader question of whether America could design primary elections differently. @mainstreetparty_ Recording and ProductionRecorded at: Michael’s Office in SE Portland, OregonOriginal Music: Rainezra (@rainezra) and Vews (@pointofvews)Audio Editing by: Kye Gilmer (@residual_audio)Marketing by: Nate Kersey (@natekersey) Learn More / SourcesThe following materials were referenced or informed this episode. Links are provided for transparency and further reading. Party Affiliation Fact Sheet | Pew Research CenterData on party identification and independent voters.https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/fact-sheet/party-affiliation-fact-sheet-npors/Voters’ Feelings About the 2024 Campaign and Candidates | Pew Research CenterResearch on voter attitudes toward the 2024 presidential choices.https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2024/07/11/voters-feelings-about-the-2024-campaign-and-candidates/State Primaries Toolkit | National Conference of State LegislaturesOverview of primary systems used across the United States.https://www.ncsl.org/elections-and-campaigns/state-primaries-toolkitPreferential Voting | Australian Electoral CommissionExplanation of Australia’s preferential voting system.https://www.aec.gov.au/learn/preferential-voting.htmWhat is MMP? | Electoral Commission of New ZealandExplanation of New Zealand’s mixed-member proportional system.https://elections.nz/democracy-in-nz/what-is-new-zealands-system-of-government/what-is-mmp/The Electoral System | German Federal Returning OfficerOverview of Germany’s Bundestag electoral system.https://www.bundeswahlleiterin.de/en/bundestagswahlen/2025/informationen-waehler/wahlsystem.htmlVoting Systems in the UK | UK House of Commons LibraryOverview of electoral systems used across the United Kingdom.https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/sn04458/2025 Democratic Mayoral Primary Ranked-Choice Results | New York City Board of ElectionsOfficial ranked-choice results from the 2025 mayoral primary.https://vote.nyc/sites/default/files/pdf/election_results/2025/20250624Primary%20Election/rcv/026916_1.htmlElectoral College | National ArchivesOverview of the Electoral College system.https://www.archives.gov/electoral-college/aboutElectoral College FAQs | National ArchivesAdditional information about Electoral College procedures.https://www.archives.gov/electoral-college/faq1992 Federal Election Results | Federal Election CommissionOfficial results from the 1992 presidential election.https://www.fec.gov/resources/cms-content/documents/federalelections92.pdf2 U.S.C. § 2c | U.S. House of RepresentativesFederal law concerning single-member congressional districts.https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title2-section2cElectoral System Design Database | International IDEAComparative information on electoral systems around the world.https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/electoral-system-design

    Why Can't We Build A Better Primary System?

  3. Sep 1

    Why Does America Still Think Working 9 to 5 Is the Way to Make a Living?

    Subtitle: And, How Can We Be More Like Dolly and Less Like Donald? In this episode of All American Why, Michael asks why America still organizes so much of working life around systems designed generations ago. From the 40-hour workweek and the decline of organized labor to remote work, employee ownership, burnout, healthcare, workplace flexibility, and the rise of artificial intelligence, Michael explores who benefits when workers become more productive and whether work should demand quite so much of our lives. Michael then talks with Marina Martinez-Bateman about human-centered management, workers' rights, organizational power, anti-racism, restorative justice, capitalism, and what it might look like to build workplaces differently. Together, they explore how employers can balance accountability with autonomy, profitability with humanity, and the needs of organizations with the dignity and lives of the people who make them work. "Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.” -Dolly Parton Guest InformationMarina Martinez-Bateman, Founder & CEO of New Coyote Consulting Marina's work focuses on human-centered management, workers' rights, anti-racism, restorative justice, organizational power, equity, and building institutions differently. Marina also teaches Decolonizing Management, a program examining hierarchy, capitalism, anti-Blackness, budgeting, hiring, firing, accountability, and power inside organizations. Check out all of their workshops!  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. State of the Global Workplace: United States Country-Level Data | Gallup Research on employee engagement and the experience of workers in the United States. https://www.gallup.com/workplace/704063/state-global-workplace-united-states-country-level-data.aspxU.S. Workers Adjust to the Changing Nature of Employment: Highlights from the 2024 Work in America Survey | American Psychological Association Research on burnout, working hours, workplace mental health, workplace flexibility, and the experiences of American workers. https://www.apa.org/pubs/reports/work-in-america/2024The New York Factory Investigating Commission | U.S. Department of Labor History of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire and the workplace safety reforms that followed. https://www.dol.gov/general/aboutdol/history/mono-regsafepart07The Department in the New Deal and World War II, 1933 to 1945 | U.S. Department of Labor Historical background on federal labor protections, organized labor, and workplace reform during the New Deal era. https://www.dol.gov/general/aboutdol/history/dolchp03National Labor Relations Act | National Labor Relations Board The federal law establishing important protections for collective organizing and bargaining. https://www.nlrb.gov/guidance/key-reference-materials/national-labor-relations-actUnion Members, 2025 | U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Federal data on union membership, including long-term changes in the percentage of American workers represented by unions. https://www.bls.gov/news.release/union2.htmGrowing Inequalities, Reflecting Growing Employer Power, Have Generated a Productivity-Pay Gap Since 1979 | Economic Policy Institute Research examining the relationship between increases in worker productivity and compensation. https://www.epi.org/blog/growing-inequalities-reflecting-growing-employer-power-have-generated-a-productivity-pay-gap-since-1979-productivity-has-grown-3-5-times-as-much-as-pay-for-the-typical-worker/CEO Pay Jumped Nearly 6% in 2024: CEOs Made 281 Times as Much as the Typical Worker | Economic Policy Institute Research documenting long-term changes in CEO compensation relative to typical worker compensation. https://www.epi.org/press/ceo-pay-jumped-nearly-6-in-2024-ceos-made-281-times-as-much-as-the-typical-worker/History of Federal Minimum Wage Rates Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, 1938 to 2009 | U.S. Department of Labor Historical data on the federal minimum wage, which has remained $7.25 per hour since July 24, 2009. https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/minimum-wage/history/chartU.S. Department of Labor Report to Congress Shows Continued Growth of Employee Ownership | U.S. Department of Labor Research and federal reporting on ESOPs, worker cooperatives, and other employee ownership models. https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/ebsa/ebsa20260223Chronotype and Synchrony Effects in Human Cognitive Performance: A Systematic Review | Chronobiology International A systematic review examining chronotypes and whether cognitive performance can vary based on an individual's preferred time of day. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40293205/Right to Disconnect | Australian Fair Work Ombudsman Information about Australia's legal right for employees to refuse certain work-related contact outside working hours. https://www.fairwork.gov.au/employment-conditions/right-to-disconnectPredictive Scheduling | Oregon Bureau of Labor & Industries Information about Oregon's scheduling protections for employees of certain large retail, hospitality, and food-service employers. https://www.oregon.gov/boli/workers/pages/predictive-scheduling.aspxHow COVID-19 Changed U.S. Workplaces | Pew Research Center Research on remote work, work-life balance, productivity, and how American workplaces changed following the COVID-19 pandemic. https://www.pewresearch.org/2025/02/12/how-covid-19-changed-u-s-workplaces/Durée du travail d'un salarié à temps plein | Service-Public.fr, French Government Information on France's 35-hour statutory reference period for full-time work. https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F1911Directive 2003/88/EC Concerning Certain Aspects of the Organisation of Working Time | European Union European Union rules addressing working time, daily rest, and minimum paid annual leave. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2003/88/oj/engHoliday Pay | U.S. Department of Labor Federal guidance explaining that the Fair Labor Standards Act does not require employers to provide paid vacation. https://www.dol.gov/general/topic/workhours/holidaysUnited States: Foundations for Growth and Competitiveness 2026 | Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development International economic and policy comparisons, including the United States' approach to paid maternity leave. https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/foundations-for-growth-and-competitiveness-2026_40a7532f-en/full-report/united-states_2015aea7.htmlSociety at a Glance 2024: OECD Social Indicators | Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development International comparisons involving family policy, parental leave, social conditions, and well-being. https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/society-at-a-glance-2024_918d8db3-en.htmlEmployer-Sponsored Health Insurance 101 | KFF Research and data on employer-sponsored health insurance and the role employment plays in healthcare coverage in the United States. https://www.kff.org/health-costs/health-policy-101-employer-sponsored-health-insurance/Contingent and Alternative Employment Arrangements, July 2023 | U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Federal data on independent contractors and other alternative employment arrangements. https://www.bls.gov/news.release/conemp.htmWomen in the Workplace 2025 | McKinsey & Company and LeanIn.Org Research examining women's representation, advancement, promotion, and leadership in corporate America. https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/diversity-and-inclusion/women-in-the-workplaceLilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009 | U.S. Congress Federal legislation addressing when discriminatory compensation claims accrue under federal employment discrimination laws. https://www.congress.gov/bill/111th-congress/senate-bill/181Sexual Harassment in Our Nation's Workplaces | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Federal data and research concerning workplace sexual harassment, reporting, and enforcement. https://www.eeoc.gov/data/sexual-harassment-our-nations-workplacesGenerative AI at Work | Erik Brynjolfsson, Danielle Li, and Lindsey R. Raymond, National Bureau of Economic Research Research involving more than 5,000 customer-support agents examining the effects of generative AI assistance on worker productivity. https://www.nber.org/papers/w31161Generative AI at Work | The Quarterly Journal of Economics The peer-reviewed published version of the research on generative AI and customer-support worker productivity. https://academic.oup.com/qje/article/140/2/889/7990658Changes in Work Time and Well-Being: A Large-Scale Global Study | Nature Human Behaviour A 2025 peer-reviewed study of 2,896 employees across 141 organizations examining reduced working time without reduced pay and its relationship to burnout, job satisfaction, mental health, and physical health. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-025-02259-6Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938: Maximum Struggle for a Minimum Wage | U.S. Department of Labor History of the Fair Labor Standards Act and the development of federal minimum wage, overtime, and working-hour protections. https://www.dol.gov/general/aboutdol/history/flsa1938Fair Labor Standards Act | U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division Federal information about minimum wage, overtime, recordkeeping, and child labor protections under the FLSA. https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/flsaTriangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire | Library of Congress Historical materials about the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire and its significance in American labor and workplace safety history. https://guides.loc.gov/chronicling-america-triangle-shirtwaist-factory-fire

    Why Does America Still Think Working 9 to 5 Is the Way to Make a Living?

  4. 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?

  5. 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

  6. 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/

  7. 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

  8. 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

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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
    16
  • Rating
    Explicit
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    © 2026 My Creativity Vitality LLC. All Rights Reserved.
  • Show Website
    All American Why