The Jason Wright Show

Will the proposed reparations plan in San Francisco really right this wrong or do more harm? “Giving to those in need what they could be gaining from their own initiative may well be the kindest way to destroy people. We mean well, our motives are good, but we have neglected to conduct care-full due diligence to determine emotional, economic, and cultural outcomes on the receiving end of our charity. Why do we miss this crucial aspect in evaluating our charitable work? Because, as compassionate people, we have been evaluating our charity by the rewards we receive through service, rather than the benefits received by the served. We have failed to adequately calculate the effects of our service on the lives of those reduced to objects of our pity and patronage.”― Robert D. Lupton, Toxic Charity: How Churches and Charities Hurt Those They Help San Francisco’s proposed reparations plan, which would give $5 million to each eligible Black person, will be publicly discussed for the first time at the city’s Board of Supervisors meeting Tuesday afternoon. Details: To be eligible for reparations, a person would need to be at least 18 years old and have identified as Black or African American on public documents for at least 10 years. They may also need to prove they were born in San Francisco between 1940 and 1996 and lived in the city for at least 13 years, and were displaced, or a descendant of someone displaced, from the city by urban renewal. State of play: The city is trying to make amends for previous actions that ultimately led to a lack of opportunities and displacement of a portion of the city’s Black population. San Francisco’s urban renewal of the 1960s and ’70s, for example, decimated the Black population in San Francisco’s Fillmore District, an area once known as the Harlem of the West due to its bustling jazz scene. The city’s redevelopment of the Fillmore shuttered 883 businesses, displaced 4,729 households and damaged the lives of nearly 20,000 people, according to the reparations committee. Black people made up 13.4% of the city’s population in 1970, according to U.S. Census data. That has dropped to just 5.7%, according to 2021 Census population estimates. Catch up quick: San Francisco Supervisor Shamann Walton in 2020 wrote the since unanimously approved legislation to establish the African American Reparations Advisory Committee. The committee released a draft plan in December that recommended a number of reparations, including a one-time $5 million payment to eligible Black individuals and payroll and property tax exemptions for Black business owners. It also recommended the creation of a mandatory curriculum that centers Black history and culture in the school district and more. Between the lines: To determine the $5 million figure, the committee looked at factors like income disparity, the wealth gap and “specific incidents where Black folks in San Francisco were legislated out of opportunity,” Tinisch Hollins, the committee’s vice chair, told Axios. “There’s no way to quantify the harm done to Black Americans,” she said, but added the amount the committee is proposing “is not unreasonable.” If approved, it’s unclear where the money would come from, but some supervisors have suggested decreasing the police budget or using revenue from the Cannabis Business Tax to fund reparations, the San Francisco Chronicle reports. What they’re saying: “We know the negative impacts of slavery, what it’s done to economic equality, what it’s done to the education [and] overcriminalization for Black people across the country, but also the negative impacts of slavery for folks right here in San Francisco,” Walton told Axios. The other side: Since the plan’s release, city Supervisor Joel Engardio has said the $5 million payment “may not be feasible under current budget constraints.” The city, for example, has a projected budget deficit of $728 million from July through June 2025. Meanwhile, San Francisco Republican Party chairman John Dennis told Axios the process for determining the reparations “was a very unserious thing,” arguing a better approach would be for Black people to pursue litigation against the city. What’s next: The reparations committee will continue to meet monthly before submitting its final proposal in June. From there, the Board of Supervisors will decide whether to accept, reject or modify the plan. *Credit Axios

Improve Always in ALL Ways Unless It’s Making You Effn’g Nuts! Look, some of us just need to chill out. There is a fine line between being a self improver and a sadist. In this episode I encourage you to always strive for that daily 1% improvement, but don’t forget to enjoy life. Follow me on Insta @jasonwrightnow Subscribe to My Newsletter-The Vitruvian Letter Subscribe to The YouTube Channel

It was 2003 and I was dying. No. I mean it. I was risking death. I had been hiking through the foothills of the Himalayas on my first ever mission trip. Over the course of three days I had weaved through leech infested goat trails, dehydrated and lost 15 lbs. The two guys I was hiking with were ahead of me. The three of us were making our way to a small hillside farm. My vision was blurry. My mind was hazy. My tongue was sticky and fat. “One more step..one more step..don’t look over the edge..one more step.” This is what I said to myself for hours. Then I would slide down the side of the mountain trying desperately not to collapse under the weight of the 50 lb pack I was carrying. This was incredibly difficult given the falling warm rain and the slick mud that guided my steps. We made it to the little farm. It was a one room shack with a covered porch. One small pen was outside with a pig in it. I threw up in the pig pen, shed my pack and fell backwards. Lying on the cool dirt floor of the back porch was bliss. My friends and I were greeted by a Chinese National wearing only a pair of pants that had been cut into culottes. Well, that and a big smile. Peeking out of one of my friend’s pockets was a picture. The man immediately became animated and started pointing at the picture. It was a picture of him. We had found the ‘Happy Han Man.’ This is how the missionaries that had gone before us described him. This was his little farm. He was known to help those who passed by. They had been here before and took the picture and gave it to us to look for him should we find ourselves in need of assistance. The entire time we were with him he never lost that wide smile. This was a man not just happy but full of joy. He had little to no material belongings. He had no running water. He had no electricity, but he exuded joy. How could this be? I think it’s because joy is deeper than anything material gifts can provide us. Joy is something that begins inside and is shown outwardly. I think when one finds joy they have found one of life’s greatest treasures for sure. Joy is a unique emotion, different from happiness. It can be described as an intense feeling of pleasure or satisfaction that surpasses the level of joy experienced by temporary happiness. As C.S Lewis famously said, “Joy is the serious business of Heaven”- meaning it stands for something much deeper and more meaningful than mere contentment or satisfaction. Joy is something that goes beyond the fleeting happiness we feel when we achieve something or experience an exciting moment.  Joy is more important than temporary happiness because it provides a sense of purpose and connection to our innermost selves. It helps us recognize our true power and potential, which can lead to profound personal growth. Joy also helps us discover meaning in life, encourages us to pursue bigger goals, and motivates us to take necessary steps in order to achieve them.  Joy is something that we can cultivate within ourselves through daily practices such as meditation, journaling, creative activities and more. By focusing on joy as a core emotion rather than temporary happiness, we can truly unlock our potential for growth and fulfillment. Scientific studies have also explored the power of joy and its potential to increase overall well-being. Studies suggest that joy can improve physical health, strengthen relationships, increase productivity at work and even help people bounce back from adversity more easily.  Joy has been found to be associated with better mental health outcomes such as fewer symptoms of depression and improved resilience. Joy can even contribute to better physical health, with findings indicating that it can improve immune system functioning and reduce stress levels. Ultimately, joy is an emotion we should work to cultivate in our lives. Its power goes beyond the temporary happiness experienced when something exciting happens or you achieve a goal; instead, it is a lasting feeling of connectedness, purpose and growth. Joy can lead to improved mental and physical health, greater personal resilience and increased productivity. As Viktor Frankl said, “Live life in the full light of joy” – Joy should be a primary focus when striving for true fulfillment. I’m glad to have met the ‘Happy Han Man.’ To most of the world he has nothing. To me he has the greatest treasure of all-joy. Subscribe to The Vitruvian Letter Follow Me on Insta @jasonwrightnow Subscribe To The YouTube Channel

Author of ‘Blank Slate’ Craig Stanland This is such an amazing story of losing all of the trappings of life and finding everything within. For anyone dealing with bad past decisions, shame and wondering if you are ‘worthy’ this episode is for you! Who is Craig Stanland? I’m a Reinvention Architect & Mindset Coach, TEDx/Keynote Speaker, and Best-Selling Author. I specialize in working 1:1 with high-achievers who’ve reached the top of their professional mountain only to find a success-sized hole in their lives.I help them break free of their golden handcuffs, stop living on autopilot, and hit the reset button so they can fill the success-sized hole without giving up everything they’ve fought so hard to build. I know what it takes to rebuild and reinvent. In 2012 I made a choice. I exploited the warranty policy of one of the world’s largest tech companies for my financial gain. I lost my wife, my homes, cars, career, and my identity. I was suicidal. I wanted nothing more than to die. A well-timed visit from my best friend, followed by a visit from my Mom and Aunt turned it all around. I hit my absolute rock bottom, and I have spent the past several years rebuilding and reinventing myself and loving the process. I have the tools, the processes, and the beliefs that completely changed my life. My mission is to share what I learned on my fall to rock bottom and my journey out so that you can do the same. Ready to reinvent yourself and start over so you can finally live the extraordinary life you’ve always wanted? Please follow me on Insta @jasonwrightnow Subscribe to my Newsletter The Vitruvian Letter Checkout my courses for implementing the Improve always in ALL ways lifestyle Grab a copy of my book ‘The Stone Chiseler’ Grab Craig’s book “Blank Canvas’

Best Friday Ever-Choose Today The Life You Want! It’s NOT Too Late. It’s NEVER Too Late. “Every day is a new life for a wise man.”-Dale Carnegie Follow me on Twitter @jasonwrighttx Follow me on Insta @jasonwrightnow Checkout The Vitruvian Lab The Vitruvian Lab Subscribe to The Vitruvian Letter The VL

Shawn Medlin, author, podcast host, entrepreneur, and life and business strategist, is the founder of the Serve Hard movement. The movement encourages people to serve others while striving for personal excellence. Medlin believes that by serving others, people can positively impact the world while also improving their own lives. Shawn Medlin is the founder of the Serve Hard movement, which encourages people to serve others while striving for personal excellence in everything they do. Medlin believes that by serving others, people can positively impact the world around them. His Serve Hard movement is based on the principle that everyone has the potential to make a difference in the world, but it starts by having the proper mindset and being intentional with our actions. By serving others, they can help to make the world a better place for everyone. As an author, a podcast host, an entrepreneur, and a life and business strategist, Shawn Medlin uses the Serve Hard movement to make a real difference in the world. As a highly sought-after speaker and entrepreneur, Shawn Medlin has dedicated his life to helping others achieve their goals. Shawn’s passion for the success of the Serve Hard movement is evident in everything he does, and he is committed to helping the world by motivating people to help others. Shawn is a highly coveted speaker because of his unique ability to connect with his audience. He has a way of sharing stories that inspire people to pursue their dreams. Shawn’s passion for helping others reach their potential is evident in his work.  Follow Shawn @ ShawnMedlin.com Follow Jason on Insta @jasonwrightnow.com Subscribe to The Vitruvian Letter HERE Checkout The Vitruvian Lab On-line Training HERE Subscribe to the YouTube Channel HERE Improve always in ALL ways!

Lessons From a Funeral It has been a crazy week. I attended the funeral of my wife’s grandfather, and I was on the James Altucher Podcast. Both were memorable moments full of lessons and revelation. I hope you have the “Best Friday Ever!” Follow me on Insta @jasonwrightnow.com Twitter @jasonwrighttx Web Site On The James Altucher Podcast

The Endangered Man It’s becoming increasingly clear that the modern man is in trouble. We are facing a crisis of masculinity, with boys and men struggling to find their place in a world that is rapidly changing. From mental health issues to dwindling educational attainment, it’s clear that something is not working for us. But what can be done to save the endangered man? In this episode and the series to follow, we’ll explore some of the ways we can help boys and men thrive in today’s world. It won’t be easy, but it’s essential if we want to create a better future for everyone. So let’s get started! The man is an endangered species because of the changing roles in society It is a sad reality that male figures are no longer held in the same esteemed place as they once were. With images of Al Bundy, Homer Simpson and the like being hoisted upon the American psyche for decades the modern male is seen has been portrayed as a hapless buffoon. Men who sacrificed their lives in war, to those who undertook dangerous jobs that women didn’t want, it can be argued that male figures of today have been somewhat overlooked in society. Consequently, it does not come as a surprise that male populations across the world have decreased extensively – with some nations dubbing the male population an ‘endangered species’ due to the uncertain future of their roles in society. It is clear from this analysis that male figures are struggling with redefining themselves for a changing time. Men are no longer the breadwinners and providers that they once were Women in today’s society contribute significantly to the household income, thus decreasing men’s roles as breadwinners or providers. Women are also more likely to end marriages due to dissatisfaction than they were a few decades ago. In fact in almost 80% of divorces it’s the woman who initiates the breakup. Nowadays, many single women are perfectly capable of supporting themselves and taking care of their own needs instead of relying on men. Women don’t feel that they need a man for stability and security like they used to – this is because women have more confidence in their ability to take care of themselves and make money of their own. This shift in gender roles has fundamentally changed the dynamic between men and women. However, statistics show women are less happy than ever even with this new found liberation. There has also been a stigma put on women who desire a more traditional existence. Women are shamed for wanting to stay home and be mothers and professional homemakers. As such, the feel pressured to go out and become a ‘girl boss’ often finding themselves lonely and depressed especially around the age of 35-39. Men are now expected to be emotionally available and in touch with their feelings Although masculine virtues of a protector and leader are still valued, men are now expected to bring more to the table in relationships and social interactions. This new standard emphasizes men being emotionally available and understanding, rather than stoic and distant. As a result, men are becoming more acquainted and comfortable with sharing their feelings with others, who in turn may benefit from learning how to communicate better and forming deeper bonds with each other. Yet a large portion of women surveyed indicate they don’t want to see their man cry. A man is now expected to be all things to all women. The traditional masculine ideal is no longer as valued as it once was John Wayne, Mickey Mantle, and Superman have long been representations of the traditional masculine ideal. Hailing from different generations, these men each symbolized strength, confidence, and physical prowess. Despite the near-universal reverence for these symbols of a bygone era, the traditional masculine ideal is no longer as celebrated or as valued as it once was (at least not in pop culture). While many women surveyed still want the knight in shining armor they aren’t allowed to see it on the big screen lest this be considered gender non-equality. Modern masculinity has shifted towards emphasizing resilience and internal strength rather than outward displays of power or bravado. Yet, funny enough the number one movie of the past decade was a throwback, testosterone filled film called ‘Maverick.’ This has led to a crisis of masculinity, where men don’t know who they are or what their place in society is anymore We are seeing a rapid shifting of traditional roles and expectations for men, driven by societal and cultural changes over the past several generations. This shift has left many men feeling displaced, without a clear understanding of who they are or how they should interact with others in society. The complexity, confusion and discomfort surrounding this crisis are contributing to feelings of lost identity and purpose in men who no longer feel supported or understood as once they did. Men are increasingly unable to easily fit into predefined gender roles due to internalizations of changing definitions of masculinity within their lives and communities. Thus, we must work together to develop fresh models that support men so that they can embrace both traditional male roles — such as provider, protector and leader. Though the only thing we seem to hear from pop culture is “Women, be more like men.” “Men, be more like women.” This has had negative consequences for both men and women, as well as for society as a whole especially in the area of sex which has become more transactional than relational Hook up sex has had far-reaching consequences for both men and women in our society. Divorce rates are higher than ever, single mother households on the rise and there has even been an increase in male suicide rates – all as a result of hook up sex. It’s essential to recognize the potential damage hook up sex can cause and take steps to break this pattern of behaviour before it contributes to more serious issues in society. Far too many men today are lost, unsure of their place in the world. We must begin to once again raise up and honor men of virtue and honor. Men who are strong, yet gentle. Men who know how to lead without being overbearing. Men who are emotionally available, but not governed by their emotions. In doing so, we can help stem the tide of the negative consequences that have arisen from the crisis of masculinity and create a better world for everyone. Now cue the Sarah McLachlan music to save a man…

So Sunday February 19th I turn 48. I don’t like birthdays. They are simply a reminder I’m not as young as I feel. However, they are a time to reflect on what has transpired thus far in one’s life. Here’s a little of what I’ve learned. You will survive almost every tragedy that befalls you You DON’T have to try to make people like you. Just be the type of person it’s easy to like It takes more energy to hate than to forgive You will never have enough money to do all the things you want to do  True joy comes from experiences not things Developing skills and pursuing activities that make you a better person but no money at all are indeed worthwhile Loving with full abandon is the surest way to keep your spouse happy  When cooking a steak, trust the process. Don’t check the meat every minute. Find the time and temperature that works and trust the process People will always disappoint you. They’re human. That’s what humans do It’s okay to be a nobody in the world’s eyes. What matter is being a somebody your wife and children can depend on “He who conquers his mind conquers the world.” Contentment is the brass ring not the brass ring Age is in fact just a number. How you feel is what matters most Stay active. It’s magical how amazing being healthy feels Not drinking alcohol is awesome If you smile at the world, more times than not it will smile back at you. Sounds cheesy, but it’s true Divine appointments are real. I’ve had more than I can count Managing the distance between action and reaction can change everything Trying to control others is pointless. You can only control yourself You don’t need nor can explain the actions of others. Leave it to them. You are only accountable for your own actions Apologize quickly Being a good listener is far more important than being a good talker It’s ok to keep your opinion to yourself It’s ok to disagree with people just do it respectfully Like C.S. Lewis said, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.” I’m sure there’s more. After all, it’s been nearly half a century. However these are 20 of the main lessons I’ve taken from life so far. I can wait to see what the next 48 holds.

Cold Exposure-What are The Benefits? How Cold? Will It Make Me Lose Weight? How Often? Is There A Downside? What Does Dr. Andrew Huberman Have to Say? Why all the fuss about cold plunging and thermogenesis If you’re like most people, the thought of plunging into cold water might make you shiver. But what if I told you that there are some major benefits to be gained by taking a dip in ice cold water? Recent studies have shown that exposure to colder temperatures can actually help improve your overall health and wellness. Here’s a closer look at why all the fuss about cold plunging and thermogenesis. What is cold plunging and why does it have benefits for the body? Cold plunging, also known as cryotherapy, is a practice made popular in recent years by the likes of Ben Greenfield. The simple practice consists of taking quick plunges into cold water – ideally no warmer than 50-60°F – which has significant mental and physical benefits. First, blood sugar becomes better regulated after each plunge; this helps to stabilize blood pressure and fight off cravings that cause weight gain. Second, endorphins, or the “feel good” hormones, are released which leads to a more positive energy flow and improved focus. Lastly, metabolism is boosted up to nine times normal rates due to the body’s approach towards keeping it warm; increased calorie burn leads to weight loss over time. cold plunging adds an attractive option alongside more traditional forms of exercise, a truly unique way to enhance any health routine. How does cold water therapy help with thermogenesis and weight loss specifically? Cold water therapy is becoming increasingly popular as a natural way to support weight loss. Not only can it boost the metabolism and rev up thermogenesis, but it also helps burn excess fat through specific physiological reactions. When cold water enters the body, the sympathetic nervous system kicks in and sends signals to fat cells, which leads to burning of stored fats for energy. Additionally, the sudden increase in metabolic activity raises core body temperature, which then increases thermogenesis. Because these processes require additional energy from the body’s reserves, this form of therapy can be very helpful with natural weight loss over time. Are there any risks associated with cold plunging, and how can they be avoided? Cold plunging can offer a range of health benefits from reducing stress to improving blood circulation, however, it is important to be aware that there are some risks associated with this practice. If you’re not taking the necessary precautions you may increase your chances of developing cold-related illnesses or injuries such as hypothermia and muscular strains. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it is important to acclimatise yourself before entering the cold plunge by having a warm shower beforehand and starting off with cooler temperatures. It is also recommended that new cold plunge participants have someone nearby in case of any complications which may occur. With these precautions in mind, you can safely enjoy all the health benefits that come along with this invigorating pastime. What are some other benefits of cold water therapy that people may not know about? Cold water therapy has long been praised for its pain-relief abilities, but there are many more benefits to the practice than initially thought. Cold water therapy can also improve circulation and prevent inflammation, reduce stiffness in muscles and joints, stimulate your immune system, slow down aging process due to its anti-inflammatory properties, and even decrease depression by releasing endorphins. And if you’re looking to burn some extra calories without putting too much strain on your body, cold water immersion can help to boost your metabolism. In essence, cold water therapy is a versatile health practice with numerous mental and physical benefits that can easily be incorporated into anyone’s lifestyle. How can someone get started with cold plunging if they’re interested in trying it out themselves? If you’re interested in trying out cold plunging then the best place to start is ice barrel ice showers. Many ice bath experts believe this to be the most beneficial form of cold bathing, as it can provide a huge therapeutic effect and even reduce inflammation. Another great way to get started with cold plunging is just going for regular walks in the wintertime. Not only will this invigorate and energize yourself, but you’ll also slowly begin to increase your tolerance for colder temperatures and condition your body over time. Lastly, if you don’t mind being half naked in public (at least until you become more used to ice bath temperatures) then try visiting a nature hotspot — like a cold river, pond or beach — during colder months and just jump right in! Overall, cold plunging has a lot of benefits for the human body that range from improving physical health to aiding in weight loss. It’s relatively easy and safe to do, so if you’re interested in trying it out yourself, there are plenty of resources available to help you get started. Have you ever tried cold therapy? What were your results?