The chapter explores the urgency of preserving democracy post-2016 election through the inception of Protect Democracy. It details the challenges faced by former White House lawyers in navigating the shift in understanding of presidential power and brainstorming strategies to combat authoritarian threats. The narrative highlights the founders' pivotal decision-making process, underscoring their determination to act swiftly to safeguard American democracy.
Just like private companies, many not-for-profit organizations begin when a founder sees a gap in the market and makes something new to fill it. Ian Bassin is a lawyer, former White House counsel and not-for-profit leader who saw a need to better protect and preserve the building blocks of America’s democratic systems, and steer things away from authoritarianism. His organization, Protect Democracy, brings together stakeholders across political divides to develop products, systems and services related to good governance. And Ian’s workforce has been entirely distributed — with employees now in more than 20 states — from the very beginning.
Host Jeff Berman draws out Ian’s story of crafting Protect Democracy’s mission alongside its culture. Hear how Ian gained the confidence, political and financial capital to start his work, and how he aligns an all-remote team. This episode is packed with insights for business leaders who navigate difference, and who aim to drive positive change.
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