Guy Kawasaki's Remarkable People

Yoni Appelbaum: How America Got Stuck

Mar 5, 2025

In this insightful discussion, Yoni Appelbaum, Deputy Executive Editor of The Atlantic, delves into the troubling decline of mobility in America and its impact on society and politics. He shares how housing policy and community dynamics shape the American dream, urging a reimagining of these systems to foster inclusivity. Appelbaum also emphasizes the importance of grassroots movements in driving political change and civic engagement, challenging listeners to participate actively in their communities to reclaim democracy.

52:09

Episode guests

Yoni Appelbaum

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Yoni Appelbaum highlights how organized grassroots movements are essential for holding politicians accountable in today's polarized political climate.

The transition from academia to journalism allowed Appelbaum to embrace curiosity, demonstrating the importance of interactive engagement over traditional education.

In his book 'Stuck', Appelbaum discusses declining American mobility caused by zoning laws, emphasizing the need to restore opportunities for upward movement.

Deep dives

The Power of Political Accountability

A significant portion of the population has the capacity to influence politicians by holding them accountable for their agendas. Politicians are likely to respond to constituents who demonstrate clear priorities and political organization. An example mentioned is Donald Trump's impact on Republican lawmakers, making it evident that his supporters will actively oppose those who do not align with his views. To counteract this trend, there is a call for grassroots movements that can match such organized support.

Intro

2min

From Procrastination to Publication

4min

Navigating Political Turbulence

14min

The Paradox of American Mobility

24min

Resilience and Risk: Contemplating America's Future

2min

Exploring Diverse Perspectives Through Media and Social Commentary

3min

The Essence of American Mobility and Loss

2min

Engagement as a Catalyst for Change

2min

From the halls of Harvard to the pages of The Atlantic, Yoni Appelbaum's story defies conventional career paths. As Deputy Executive Editor and author of Stuck, Appelbaum illuminates how America's declining mobility is transforming our social fabric and political landscape. Drawing from his unique background as both historian and journalist, he examines the intersection of housing policy, community dynamics, and democratic resilience, offering fresh perspectives on how to reinvigorate the American dream.

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Guy Kawasaki is on a mission to make you remarkable. His Remarkable People podcast features interviews with remarkable people such as Jane Goodall, Marc Benioff, Woz, Kristi Yamaguchi, and Bob Cialdini. Every episode will make you more remarkable.

With his decades of experience in Silicon Valley as a Venture Capitalist and advisor to the top entrepreneurs in the world, Guy’s questions come from a place of curiosity and passion for technology, start-ups, entrepreneurship, and marketing. If you love society and culture, documentaries, and business podcasts, take a second to follow Remarkable People.

Listeners of the Remarkable People podcast will learn from some of the most successful people in the world with practical tips and inspiring stories that will help you be more remarkable.

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Listen to Remarkable People here: **https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/guy-kawasakis-remarkable-people/id1483081827**

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