Derate The Hate

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!Finding Purpose, Mastering Gratitude, and Living IntentionallyYou know, life can be tough, filled with struggles, setbacks, and uncertainties. But friends, one thing I have learned through my own journey is that purpose and intentionality are powerful tools to not only navigate those challenges but to thrive through them.Today, I have the incredible privilege of sitting down with my friend, Scott Maderer, founder of Inspired Stewardship. Scott’s work is all about helping people, especially Christians, discover their true purpose and live out their calling with intention and joy. Scott and his wife Carrie started this journey in 2011, and since 2017, they’ve been doing it full-time, offering coaching, workshops, and even writing a book to guide others in aligning their time, talent, and treasures.In this conversation, we’ll talk about Scott’s own path—how he overcame personal struggles, including financial hardships, to create a life of meaning and service. We’ll unpack the difference between contentment and complacency, the transformative power of gratitude, and how small, intentional changes can lead to big, life-altering results.Scott’s passion for helping others live authentically shines through in his work, and I’m excited for you to hear his insights on how we can all live a more inspired and purposeful life. So, grab a seat, open your heart, and let’s dive into this powerful conversation with Scott Maderer.TakeawaysThe journey of finding purpose is ongoing and evolves over time.Financial struggles can deeply impact one's mental health and sense of identity.Contentment is about gratitude and recognizing what you have, not just material success.Gratitude practices can rewire your brain to focus on the positive.Joy is a deeper, more lasting feeling than happiness.Small, incremental changes can lead to significant life transformations.It's important to differentiate between being content and being complacent.Training your brain to look for the good can change your perspective on life.Everyone has the potential to live an intentional and inspired life.Resources and frameworks can help guide individuals towards their calling.Learn more about and connect wThe world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast! *The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

In this engaging conversation, Zander Keig, an award-winning social worker and bestselling author, explores transformative concepts from his book, The Third Space. He introduces the idea of 'third spaces' as inclusive environments that challenge rigid identities and foster deeper connections. Zander shares his personal journey as a neurodivergent, first-generation Mexican American, navigating societal norms and finding community. He emphasizes the crucial role of education in combating hate and highlights the impact of organizations promoting dialogue and empathy.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!Strengthen Relationships: Local Solutions To America's Growing Societal FragilityToday, in yet another of our ProHuman Foundation advisors series, I have the distinct privilege of speaking with someone who’s not only a thought leader but also a seasoned expert in understanding the complex dynamics of fragile states, societies, and communities.Seth D. Kaplan is the author of Fragile Neighborhoods: Repairing American Society, One Zip Code at a Time. His work focuses on an issue that’s been at the forefront of my mind for quite some time—the fragility of American society, not in terms of political collapse, but in terms of the erosion of social cohesion and interpersonal connections. Seth is a Professorial Lecturer at Johns Hopkins University’s prestigious SAIS program, a Senior Adviser at the Institute for Integrated Transitions, and a visiting fellow at the Mercatus Center’s Program on Pluralism and Civil Exchange. Beyond academia, he’s consulted for organizations like the World Bank and the U.S. State Department, tackling challenges in fragile communities worldwide.In our conversation today, we’ll explore what makes communities thrive—or falter—and why local action and community engagement are vital to restoring our social fabric. We’ll also delve into how technology and cultural narratives play a role in shaping, or fracturing, those connections. If you’ve ever felt that society is growing more polarized, more disconnected, and less respectful, you’ll find this conversation enlightening—and maybe even empowering.TakeawaysFragile states are politically or socially unstable with low social cohesion.American society is fragile due to declining interpersonal relationships.Technology has contributed to the isolation and atomization of society.Local engagement is crucial for rebuilding community connections.Individuals can make a difference by participating in local organizations.Cultural change is necessary to address societal issues.Constructive narratives should be amplified over polarizing ones.People often feel marginalized and disrespected in society.Restoring social fabric requires active participation in communities.Learn more about and connectThe world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast! *The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!Confronting Addiction and Reclaiming Sobriety Through Personal TransformationToday, we’re talking about a topic that hits close to home for so many people—addiction, recovery, and the fight to reclaim control of one’s life. Joining me is someone who’s not only walked that difficult path but has turned his journey into a powerful message of hope and transformation. Ken Cox is the author of Reclaim Sobriety: The 12 Rounds of Sobriety, a guide for overcoming addiction and taking back your life, one step at a time. Ken’s story is one of grit, growth, and the relentless pursuit of a better self.Ken is not just an author; he’s also the President of Hostirian and host of the award-winning Clicks and Bricks podcast. With a career rooted in creating value and solutions for others, he’s built a reputation as a successful entrepreneur and mentor. But today, we’re diving into his personal journey—how boxing, mindset work, and even redefining masculinity helped him rise from the depths of alcoholism and trauma to become a sober gladiator, as he calls it.Ken’s commitment to youth mentorship and his work with transformative practices like EMDR therapy are inspiring. He’s not just helping others find their way out of addiction—he’s showing them how to reclaim their identity, build resilience, and create a life they can be proud of.So, get ready for an incredibly impactful conversation about mindset, masculinity, recovery, and the power of personal growth. TakeawaysReclaiming control over one's life is essential for recovery.Identifying as a 'sober gladiator' can change one's mindset.The journey of recovery often requires redefining personal identity.Boxing provided a crucial outlet for Ken's transformation.Youth mentorship can be a powerful tool for personal growth.Understanding microtraumas is important in helping others.Mindset work is critical for overcoming addiction.EMDR therapy can aid in processing past traumas.Creating a supportive environment for youth is vital.Sharing personal stories can help others in their recovery journey.Learn more about and connect with Ken Cox by checking out the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com.The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast! *The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!Preparing Our Children with the Skills To Navigate Toxic PolarizationToday, we’re diving into one of the most critical topics of our time—how we can equip the next generation to navigate a world that often feels more divided by the day.As someone who’s worked through my own journey from anger to understanding, I know firsthand the importance of teaching people to bridge divides. But what if we could start even earlier? What if we could teach kids—not just as they grow, but while they’re still forming the skills and perspectives that will shape their entire lives—to think critically, build empathy, and connect across differences?Our guest today is Kent Lenci, a true pioneer in this space. Kent spent 20 years as a middle school educator, holding roles as a teacher, coach, and leader, before founding Middle Ground School Solutions in 2019. His mission is simple but powerful: to help prepare today’s students to ease tomorrow’s political polarization. From creating curriculum for the Better Arguments Project and the National Week of Conversation to writing his book Learning to Depolarize, Kent has been on the front lines, empowering educators to teach kids how to engage with empathy and civility in a divided world.We’ll talk about Kent’s journey, the challenges today’s youth face, and why early intervention in education is key to countering the effects of divisive media and polarized environments. Kent will also share actionable insights on fostering emotional intelligence and media literacy in kids, along with the role human connection plays in creating lasting change.This is exactly the kind of conversation that embodies the spirit of Derate the Hate—finding ways to turn tension into understanding and anger into action. TakeawaysKent Lenci transitioned from teaching to founding Middle Ground Solutions.Early intervention in education can prevent polarization.Media literacy is essential for critical thinking in youth.Emotional intelligence helps children navigate complex social dynamics.Building connections across divides is crucial for understanding.Human connection is key to overcoming polarization.Organizations like Pro Human Foundation and Braver Angels work towards a better future. The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast! *The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!Overcome The Overwhelm and Calm Your Inner CriticFriends, how often do you feel like you’re juggling the impossible? Trying to balance the demands of work, family, and the pressures you put on yourself? It can feel overwhelming, right? But what if I told you there’s a way to find harmony—not just balance, but real, meaningful harmony—so you can lead a life that works and feels right for you?Today, I’m sitting down with someone who knows this journey all too well: Arlene Cohen Miller. Arlene is the CEO of Jewel Consultancy and a Work-Life Balance & Harmony Coach with a powerful mission. With a background as a highly regarded attorney, an internationally certified coach, and even a certified meditation facilitator, Arlene brings a unique blend of experience and insight to help women—and really, anyone—lead with compassion, self-confidence, and clarity.In this conversation, Arlene and I dive deep into what it takes to overcome the overwhelm, quiet that inner critic, and shift our mindset with practices like gratitude and self-compassion. She’s got practical strategies for setting priorities, celebrating your small wins, and even finding healing in something as simple as connecting with nature.So, if you’ve ever felt like the weight of the world is on your shoulders or struggled to give yourself grace when you stumble, this episode is for you. Tune in, and let’s explore how we can each take one step closer to a life filled with balance, growth, and fulfillment. TakeawaysGratitude can significantly enhance our happiness.Setting priorities is crucial for managing overwhelm.The inner critic often stems from childhood experiences.Self-compassion is essential for personal growth.Nature can provide a healing escape from daily stress.Celebrating small wins helps combat feelings of failure.We must train ourselves to listen to our inner dialogue.Mistakes are opportunities for learning and growth.Finding hope in nature can restore balance.Practicing gratitude can shift our focus to positivity.Learn more about and connect with Arlene Cohen Miller online by checking out the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com.The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast! *The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!Bridging Divides Through The Universal Language of MusicToday, we’re diving into a topic that resonates deeply with our mission—using the universal language of music to bridge divides and foster understanding. Joining me is the incredible Jason Caplan, a pioneer in this space and someone whose work truly inspires. Jason is the Founder and President of The Bridge Institute, where he’s championing a groundbreaking approach to communication through the Universal Language Room. Since 2004, Jason has devoted his life to creating and teaching improvisational music as a tool for transcending barriers and fostering dialogue across cultures, religions, and perspectives.Through the Bridge Institute, Jason’s concepts are being taught worldwide, from Uganda and Indonesia to Israel and Rajasthan. His work doesn’t stop there—Jason also leads Naqshon’s Leap, a multi-faith music group based in Memphis, Tennessee. Their music speaks to unity and shared humanity, as heard in their powerful single, Unity/One God, One Human Family, which even features jazz legend David Liebman.On top of all this, Jason serves on the board of advisors at the ProHuman Foundation, an organization I’m proud to be connected with. Together, they’re exploring ways to integrate music into education and social initiatives, promoting empathy, understanding, and community building.TakeawaysMusic can serve as a universal language that transcends barriers.The Universal Language Room aims to teach music as a real language.Engaging in music can help people forget their differences.Music creates a space for constructive dialogue rather than conflict.The process of musical permutations can be a fun and engaging way to learn.Collaboration with organizations like the Pro Human Foundation enhances outreach.Music can be a powerful tool for social change and community building.Experiencing music together fosters a sense of unity and connection.Teaching music in schools can promote understanding and empathy among students.Being active participants in bridging divides is essential for social progress.Learn more about and connect with Jason Caplan by checking out the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheThe world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast! *The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!What Unites Us Is Found Outside The FrameToday, I’m joined by another remarkable guest and fellow member of the ProHuman Foundation board of advisors, filmmaker and journalist Rob Feld. Rob is a storyteller with an incredible ability to tackle some of today’s most divisive topics with insight, empathy, and—believe it or not—humor. His latest documentary, *Jesters & Fools*, is a must-watch. It brings together comedians like Colin Quinn, Mo Amer, Jim Norton, and others while interweaving the social science of Duke professor Chris Bail to reveal an uplifting truth: America isn’t as polarized as the media might have you believe. You can find it at jestersandfools.com, and I promise, it’s worth your time.  Rob’s career spans an impressive range. From directing short films that have premiered at Tribeca and TIFF Kids to writing for outlets like *DGA Quarterly* and *American Cinematographer*, and even teaching screenwriting and directing at NYU—he’s done it all. Beyond the screen and the page, Rob serves on the Board of Advisors for the ProHuman Foundation, an organization committed to promoting our shared humanity amidst divisive narratives.  In this conversation, we’re diving deep into polarization, how comedians can help bridge societal divides, and why emotional intelligence and critical thinking are more important than ever. Rob and I explore the impact of social media’s distorted realities and the urgent need for real-life connections and conversations.  If you’re ready for another thought-provoking discussion that blends humor, wisdom, and a vision for a better tomorrow, stick around. This is yet another great DTH conversation you won’t want to miss!"TakeawaysWe are not as divided as some believe.Comedians can help bridge societal divides.Online realities often distort our perceptions.Emotional intelligence is crucial for engagement.Comedy thrives in live settings despite media narratives.Teaching kids critical thinking is essential.Real-life conversations are necessary for understanding.The outrage industry exacerbates polarization.Humor can be a powerful tool for social commentary.Learn more about and connectThe world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast! *The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!The Importance of Intrapersonal Empowerment in Bettering Civil DiscourseToday, I’m excited to introduce Erec Smith, another fellow member of the board of advisors at the ProHuman Foundation and a powerful voice for true empowerment and personal accountability, especially in today’s social climate. Erec is a research fellow at the Cato Institute and a former Associate Professor of Rhetoric at York College of Pennsylvania. His work explores how rhetoric influences our perspectives on anti-racism, activism, and the foundations of a free, pluralistic, and civil society.But Erec’s reach goes beyond the classroom. He’s a co-founder of Free Black Thought, a nonprofit that’s challenging the status quo by celebrating viewpoint diversity within Black communities. Through their Journal of Free Black Thought, they share everything from poetry to scholarly work—bringing out the voices of artists, writers, academics, and public intellectuals often overlooked by mainstream media.In today’s conversation, Erec and I dig into some critical ideas about personal empowerment and the dangers of a victim narrative. One of Erec’s key messages is the importance of choosing to be a “victor” in our own lives, rather than seeing ourselves as victims. He’s observed that the victim narrative, while powerful, often breeds resentment rather than resilience, which ultimately disempowers us.We also explore some big questions: What does real equity look like, and can some equity efforts inadvertently lead to more division? Erec shares how outreach programs, when done right, prepare young people to navigate and thrive in college—not just to check boxes but to actually feel empowered.Erec’s insights on intrapersonal empowerment really hit home. He believes that the path to civil discourse—and to bridging divides—is through strengthening the individual first. It’s only when we have strong, accountable individuals that we can come together with others to reach common goals and view no group as a monolith. At the heart of Erec’s message is this: through personal accountability and a commitment to working together, we can overcome almost anything.Learn more about and connect with Erec Smith by checking out the full show notes for this episode The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast! *The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!Self-Love & Breaking A Cycle Of Self-SabotageToday’s guest, Judith Costa, brings a unique and powerful approach to something so vital in our lives: love. But it’s not just about love in the romantic sense—it’s about unconditional love, self-love, and taking responsibility for the relationships we have with others and, most importantly, ourselves.Judith is an Unconditional Love Coach, Happiness Trainer, and speaker who has spent years helping people remove those inner blocks that keep them from truly embracing who they are. With a master’s degree in Analytical Psychology and Psychotherapy, she’s also a certified teacher of the Akashic Records and a Reiki Master. Her work spans a variety of areas, including self-discovery, past life regression, and even astrology, all geared toward helping people achieve happiness, abundance, and genuine connection.In our conversation, Judith and I dive into what it really means to love yourself—how it’s a state of being, a decision we make to live authentically and fully. We talk about how often we hand over our happiness to others, how self-sabotage keeps us stuck, and why forgiving ourselves is essential to moving forward. Judith’s approach isn’t just about feeling good; it’s about understanding that love is always within our reach. She teaches that when we take ownership of our happiness, embrace our mistakes as learning opportunities, and become our own best friends, we can transform our lives.TakeawaysUnconditional love is a decision, not just a feeling.Self-love is essential for happiness and success.We often put our happiness in the hands of others.Forgiveness is crucial for personal freedom.Relationships reflect our relationship with ourselves.Self-sabotage often stems from a lack of self-love.Authenticity is key to healthy relationships.Every mistake is an opportunity for learning.Love is always available and never abandons us.Be your own best friend to transform your life.Learn more about and connect with Judith Costa by getting the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com.The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you’ve got. Make every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America’s largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast! *The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.