The Vital Center The politics of abundance, with Misha Chellam
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Aug 6, 2025 Misha Chellam, a leader in the Abundance movement and co-founder of the Abundance Network, shares insights on harnessing growth-centered policies in urban settings. They discuss the clash between housing shortages and governmental action, notably YIMBYism in San Francisco. Chellam reflects on their Silicon Valley roots, navigating the tech industry's influence on political dynamics. The conversation also explores future Abundance policies aimed at enhancing local governance, advocating for innovation in addressing socio-economic challenges across California.
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Government Is Us, Abundance Core
- The abundance movement centers on the idea that we are collectively responsible for government outcomes.
- It stresses that the top 10-20% with the most resources have the greatest obligation to reinvest in governance.
Tech’s Shift From Libertarianism
- Tech workers often value freedom to build and creativity more than financial rewards.
- Over time, tech has matured and now society rightly expects regulatory input in its operations.
Founding Abundance Network
- Misha and Zach founded Abundance Network after two years hosting conversations with thought leaders.
- They decided to focus on California governance problems, moving later to local city-level political organizing.
