Alison Cook, a therapist and bestselling author, dives into the topic of family estrangement, examining its roots and the emotional challenges involved in setting healthy boundaries. Former NFL star Matt Light joins the conversation, connecting the joy of Thanksgiving traditions with the complexities of familial ties. They also tackle the psychological impacts of scarcity during holiday shopping and explore the community dynamics brought together by the revival of wild turkeys, showcasing the beauty of shared experiences and generosity.

Krista Tippett, a Peabody Award-winning broadcaster and bestselling author, discusses the importance of cultivating deep attention and wisdom in a distracting world. She explores the role of spirituality in navigating societal polarization, emphasizing empathy and compassion. Tippett advocates for long-term civic engagement and highlights collective hope through community stories of resilience. She also delves into love as an active choice in relationships and wraps up with reflections on gratitude and the joy of reading.

Jill Escher, an autism research philanthropist and president of the National Council on Severe Autism, discusses the rising prevalence of autism and the impact of misinformation, particularly regarding vaccinations. Dalibor Rohac, a resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, analyzes the U.S. and UK's controversial military aid to Ukraine, touching on geopolitical dynamics and the humanitarian implications of the ongoing conflict. The conversation also highlights the cultural narratives surrounding figures like Tammy Faye Baker and the importance of healthier online spaces.

In this conversation, Yuval Levin, director of social, cultural, and constitutional studies at the American Enterprise Institute, dives into the future of American universities. He discusses how recent protests have reshaped academic norms and explores the departure from core values like freedom of inquiry. Levin advocates for genuine engagement in education and critiques the ideological constraints limiting discourse. He also emphasizes the need for reform to revive traditional academic ideals, promoting a love for knowledge and the importance of informed citizenship.

Join Mary Trimble, editor of The Morning Dispatch, and Adam Kinzinger, former U.S. representative and political commentator, as they delve into Trump's controversial cabinet picks and their implications for democracy. They discuss the evolving landscape of the Republican and Democratic parties following the elections, as well as the pressing issues of veteran mental health and the military suicide crisis. Their insights highlight the challenges ahead for both politics and community support for veterans.

Roger Berkowitz, founder of the Hannah Arendt Center and a prominent political thinker, shares insights on the MAGA movement’s impact on the political scene. He discusses the disconnection between elites and everyday Americans, exploring how public discontent after the financial crisis fueled populism. The conversation addresses the legal complexities surrounding the prosecution of a former president and the resulting fears of eroding trust in democracy. Finally, Berkowitz highlights the role of community in combating societal loneliness and radicalism.

Michael Wear, founder of the Center for Christianity and Public Life, shares insights on the 2024 presidential election results. Harvest Prude discusses voter turnout dynamics and the Democrats' disconnect with constituents. Justin Giboney emphasizes the need to address pressing issues like poverty and immigration. Nicole Martin and Marvin Olasky analyze the implications for democracy and the importance of civic education. They explore how character development in politics can influence future elections and foster community engagement.

Mark Tooley, President of The Institute on Religion and Democracy and ex-CIA analyst, joins the discussion as the final days of campaigning heat up. The conversation dives into how churches can navigate the digital age and maintain effective community engagement. Tooley sheds light on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency's challenges in Gaza amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict, questioning the implications for humanitarian efforts and broader geopolitical relations. The need for integrity in supporting refugees is also emphasized, urging a return to authentic worship experiences.

Eric Teetsel, Executive Vice President of the Center for Renewing America, discusses his support for Donald Trump in the upcoming presidential election. He shares insights from his extensive political background, including his time at The Heritage Foundation. The conversation delves into the impact of tariffs on the economy, especially for rural communities, and the evolving relationship between evangelical voters and Trump, particularly on abortion. Teetsel also critiques U.S. foreign policy and stresses the need for a reevaluation of military engagements.

Mike Murphy, a seasoned Republican media consultant, shares insights on the critical role of swing states in shaping presidential campaigns. He discusses candidate strategies and the complexities of the Electoral College. Jonathan Schanzer, a top researcher at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, dives into China’s escalating military posturing, examining its alliance with North Korea and Russia. They highlight the urgent geopolitical challenges the U.S. faces in maintaining global stability amid rising tensions.