No Small Endeavor with Lee C. Camp
Tokens Media
Exploring what it means to live a good life. What does it mean to live a good life? What is true happiness? What are the habits, practices, and dispositions that contribute to authentic human flourishing? No Small Endeavor examines these questions with host Lee C. Camp. You'll hear from best-selling authors, philosophers, scientists, artists, psychologists, theologians and even the occasional politician—courageous, impassioned people taking seriously the question of how to live a good life. Striving for a good life is No Small Endeavor, and we’re here with you on the road. Learn more at nosmallendeavor.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 8, 2025 • 1h 15min
221: Unabridged Interview: Sharon McMahon
Sharon McMahon, known as America's government teacher, is an award-winning educator and podcast host. In this engaging conversation, she discusses the urgent need for informed civic participation and how education can be a transformative force. Sharon shares her journey of simplifying complex political topics and fostering critical thinking among students. She also tackles the challenges of online negativity and promotes joy as a form of resistance, all while encouraging a compassionate approach to politics and community engagement.
11 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 52min
221: Sharon McMahon: Escaping the Partisan Trap
Sharon McMahon, an educator and author known as "America's Government Teacher," discusses the importance of nonpartisanship in today's political climate. She emphasizes the need for informed civic participation and the power of education to foster understanding. Throughout the conversation, she highlights the significance of recognizing complexity, the dangers of money in politics, and cultivating joy despite adversity. McMahon encourages listeners to engage positively in political discussions and take small actions toward meaningful change.
Aug 1, 2025 • 1h 3min
220: Unabridged Interview: Emma Varvaloucas
Emma Varvaloucas, Executive Director of The Progress Network and a journalist with a passion for Buddhism, shares insights on reclaiming agency in a world filled with anxiety. She discusses the transformative power of intentional news consumption and mindfulness practices, along with practical tips for reducing despair and igniting positive action. Emma offers a hopeful perspective on societal progress, highlighting significant advancements amidst challenges like climate change and poverty. Her personal journey intertwines spirituality and journalism, creating a dialogue filled with humor and realism.
Jul 28, 2025 • 52min
220: Emma Varvaloucas: Mind Over Media
Emma Varvaloucas, Executive Director of The Progress Network, dives into how our news consumption shapes our reality. She shares practical tips for engaging with media that foster positivity and action. Emma's journey through Buddhism and mindfulness reveals tools for transforming despair into hope, emphasizing the importance of context and intentionality. The discussion also critiques the role of journalism in social justice, advocating for a nonpartisan, solutions-oriented approach in a polarized society.
Jul 25, 2025 • 1h 6min
219: Unabridged Interview: Melina Laboucan-Massimo
Melina Laboucan-Massimo, a Lubicon Cree activist and founder of Indigenous Climate Action, shares her journey of advocating for climate justice and Indigenous rights. She reflects on the resilience required in the fight against colonialism and resource extraction, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous knowledge. Melina also discusses her path to recovery from health challenges while maintaining her activism. The conversation touches on the significant impact of environmental issues on communities and the necessity for accountability in resource extraction practices.
4 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 52min
219: Melina Laboucan-Massimo: Indigenous Wisdom and the Fight for Justice
Melina Laboucan-Massimo, an activist from the Lubicon Cree community and founder of Sacred Earth Solar, shares her journey through adversity while advocating for climate justice and Indigenous rights. She discusses the profound impact of the oil and gas industry on her community and the importance of resilience. Reflecting on her childhood experiences with racism, Melina emphasizes Indigenous wisdom and the need for balance between activism and well-being. She highlights ongoing struggles for recognition and the urgent fight against issues like missing and murdered Indigenous women.
Jul 18, 2025 • 1h 5min
218: Unabridged Interview: Michael Luo
Michael Luo, the executive editor at The New Yorker and author of 'Strangers in the Land', shares his powerful journey after facing racism on the streets of Manhattan. He dives deep into the history of Chinese exclusion in the U.S., revealing how past injustices shape modern America. Luo emphasizes the significance of resilience and solidarity among marginalized communities, while also exploring the complex dynamics of race, identity, and belonging in contemporary society. His insights urge us to reflect on our shared history and the pathway to a more inclusive future.
Jul 14, 2025 • 52min
218: Michael Luo: Strangers in the Land
Michael Luo, the executive editor of The New Yorker and author of Strangers in the Land, shares an insightful journey triggered by a racial incident in Manhattan. He delves into the overlooked history of Chinese exclusion in America, examining the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 and its lasting impacts. Luo connects past struggles with today's race and immigration issues, highlighting stories of resilience and solidarity among marginalized communities. He also discusses the intersection of faith and journalism, emphasizing the importance of ethical reporting for justice.
Jul 11, 2025 • 1h 8min
217: Unabridged Interview: Astro Teller
Astro Teller, the visionary co-founder and Captain of Moonshots at Alphabet’s X, discusses the transformative potential of technology in creating a sustainable future. He emphasizes blending profit with purpose through innovative projects, like carbon removal and logistics enhancements. Teller shares personal stories about rethinking success and embracing failure, advocating for a meaningful, collaborative approach to addressing global challenges. He also explores the ethical implications of AI and the vital role of curiosity and creativity in fostering human flourishing.
Jul 7, 2025 • 52min
217: Astro Teller: Captain of Moonshots on Purpose and Profit
Astro Teller, the Co-founder and 'Captain of Moonshots' at Alphabet’s X, discusses groundbreaking innovations aimed at solving global challenges. He shares insights on merging profit with purpose, highlighting projects like carbon capture and sustainable supply chains. The conversation touches on the importance of embracing failure for creativity, fostering a culture of vulnerability, and navigating the ethical dimensions of innovation. Teller emphasizes storytelling as a transformative tool, encouraging a shift towards a more responsible and human-centered approach in technology.
