Friends & Fellow Citizens

John Adams called him "a greater and better Man that Dr. Franklin..." So who was this pioneer of medicine, education, and science? Learn how Dr. Benjamin Rush, Franklin's protégé, laid the foundation for modern mental health care and became an avid advocate for causes such as abolitionism, public education, and health care for the poor. Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

Around 4am on February 24, 2022, Russia launched a tragic attack against Ukraine that began the first major European conflict since World War II. The causes and effects of the invasion have disrupted the state of U.S. national security and global world order. Dr. Kateryna Shynkaruk, an experienced diplomat and academic who is a Senior Lecturer at Texas A&M's Bush School DC, first discusses her firsthand experiences evacuating her home country. She also shares her thoughts about the conduct of Russian President Vladimir Putin, characteristics of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and the state and future of the conflict in Ukraine. "UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE" - Highly recommended video feat. Dr. Shynkaruk and former Bush School Dean (and F&FC guest) Gen. (ret.) Mark Welsh Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

While the XYZ Affair was not about deciphering secret codes, one could decipher some of the contentious eras of polarization and partisanship in American politics. Learn how this diplomatic episode between the Adams administration and French envoys divided the young nation, led to the buildup of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, and almost led to a major conflict in the 1790s. Learn more about MA signer Elbridge Gerry in Ep. 71! Thumbnail photo: Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord, French Foreign Minister Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

Since the tragic Hamas terrorist attack against Israel on October 7, 2023 resulting in more than 1100 deaths, Jews worldwide have encountered an unprecedented wave of antisemitism. Trent Spoolstra, Associate Regional Director for the Midwest office at the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and fellow Bush School alumnus with Sherman, recounted his personal thoughts, experiences, and emotions after learning about the attack. Learn more about the mission and work of the ADL to fight antisemitism and all forms of hate, and hear Trent's calling for peace, tolerance, and civility during this critical time for the Jewish people and their communities. Find out more about the ADL at www.adl.org Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

When people think of money, they may think of Ben Franklin. But a different Founding Father from Pennsylvania supplied a lot of money that funded the American patriot cause. Learn how Robert Morris's rise and fall in American politics reflected the contentious nature of political life in the early years of the federal republic. Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

What is the future of comms on the Hill? In Part II, Sarah recounts her first-hand experience with Sherman as they were evacuated during the January 6th, 2021 Capitol attack. She also shares the mission and vision of her own PR firm 917 Strategies and the future of women working in comms in our nation's capital. And finally, why dogs are wonderful company! In case you missed it, listen to Part I HERE Check out Sarah's website! www.917strategies.com Follow Sarah on: Instagram: @sarahselip X: @sarahselip And follow her dog Lilly on Instagram too! Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

A Capitol Hill staffer once told me: "Comms [communications] IS policy." How do congressional communications influence policymaking? In this two-part episode, Sherman reconnects with Sarah Selip, whom he had the opportunity to learn from and work with during his internship with former Rep. Jody Hice (R-GA) in early 2021. An emerging leader for women looking to serve in DC, Selip is the founder of 917 Strategies and a former congressional communications director who has an extensive background in conservative politics. Hear more about her past day in the life of working for Members of Congress and the opportunities and challenges of comms on the Hill! Listen to Part II HERE Check out Sarah's website! www.917strategies.com Follow Sarah on: Instagram: @sarahselip X: @sarahselip And follow Lilly on Instagram too! Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

How did the first U.S. Senator with an abolitionist platform speak on the Senate floor? Hear excerpts from New Hampshire Senator John P. Hale's speech in support of a DC emancipation bill in 1862 and learn more about his public service career and accomplishments (including an interesting fact about his daughter Lucy). Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

Happy 2024! Welcome to another year of Friends & Fellow Citizens! As technology rapidly develops, how can we develop and protect consumer welfare? Tirzah Duren, Technology Director of the American Consumer Institute Center for Citizen Research, discusses how issues like antitrust, data privacy, and AI will shape the policy debates in an age of polarization and rapid technological advancement. Learn more about ACI at theamericanconsumer.org! Learn more about Tirzah's work on technology policy! Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

As revolutionary as the Signers were, few were as revolutionary as Abraham Clark. Hear how this Signer from New Jersey advocated for "true policy" in his home state and ideals for a diverse economy, accountable legislature, faith, and justice. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone! See you next year in 2024 with plenty more content to come! Music Credits: "Joy to the World" by DIXIDD (AudioJungle) Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

Many people regard Ulysses S. Grant as a great Union General but lackluster President. But isn't there more to this American hero's story? Dr. Anne Marshall, Executive Director of the Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library, shares more about the successes and imperfections of our 18th President and the mission and vision of this unique presidential library located at Mississippi State University in Starkville, MS. Learn more about the presidential library before your visit at usgrantlibrary.org! Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

The U.S. presidential election of 1836 was anything but normal, especially if one was a member of the Whig Party. Although the Whigs nearly prevailed, unity within the party was a disaster. Nearly 200 years later, can the 1836 election teach candidates now and the future about party unity and disunity? With under a year until the 2024 presidential election, learn about the Whigs' strange campaign strategy and Sherman's thoughts on candidacies. Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

U.S.-China relations are at tense levels and will define the course of the international order for decades to come. But what are the historical episodes that have led us to this point? Do our leaders understand this complex history between China and rest of the world? Dr. Jeffrey Crean, a history professor and author, provides deeper insight into how the perceptions and fears of the 'Central Kingdom' have not only shaped China, but also other countries' understanding (and lack of it) that still affect foreign policy today. Check out Dr. Crean's book The Fear of Chinese Power: An International History to learn more about this fascinating and salient history! Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

Known as "Honest John," John Hart was regarded for his authenticity and dedication to the patriotic cause. Learn how this farmer from New Jersey participated in public service for nearly 30 years and lessons to learn about this Signer from The Garden State! Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

With so much division, misinformation, and fear-mongering on environmental issues, Americans have found it difficult to weather the contemporary political ecosystem. So what policy solutions are there that can make our natural and political environment sustainable? Stephen Perkins, former VP of Grassroots Strategy at the American Conservation Coalition (now Chief Operating Officer as of this episode's release), shares how bipartisan ideas can focus on the real issues facing our environment and unite people from different ideologies on a greener and more sustainable planet. Learn more about the ACC at acc.eco! Instagram: @acc_national X: @acc_national Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

As another year of Friends & Fellow Citizens passes, Sherman provides a recap of the interview episodes since September 2022. 22 years ago, America experienced a tragedy that would change the country and the world instantly. As yet another year passes since 9/11, Sherman offers some brief thoughts about the significance of America's yearly reflection on this unforgettable day. We will always honor the American first responders on September 11th who became historic heroes in our nation's history. Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

The U.S. faces unprecedented drug addiction and trafficking crises that is intricately connected to law enforcement, foreign policy, and social factors. How extensive have these crises been regarding U.S. foreign policy in Latin America? Dr. Aileen Teague joins the program to share her views on the transnational drug trafficking and preview how complex the causes and solutions are to these ever-changing issues. Click here for Dr. Teague's Bush School faculty profile Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

When people think of the U.S. flag design, they often think of Betsy Ross...but not Francis Hopkinson. Hear how this Founder with artistic skills encountered a major bureaucratic obstacle in the young Congress and how his writing analogized the patriot cause of the American Revolution. Support the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

Listen to Part 1 HERE! What goes into the process of podcasting? After nearly three years since Friends & Fellow Citizens began, this special, two-part, two-way interview episode features Sherman and fellow podcaster Francisco Kilgore, who hosts his own program "Hello Sonoma!". Both provide deeper insight into the podcast production process, including tips on how to start and maintain your own podcast! Check out Francisco's podcast "Hello Sonoma!" Helpful podcast links to get started and/or learn more: Riverside - hgh quality audio and video recordingDescript - editing audio, text, and video all at onceCalendly –immensely useful scheduling toolAirtable - keeping track of your podcastBuzzsprout - podcast hosting platformPat Flynn Blog about Starting a PodcastSupport the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.

What goes into the process of podcasting? After nearly three years since Friends & Fellow Citizens began, this special, two-part, two-way interview episode features Sherman and fellow podcaster Francisco Kilgore, who hosts his own program "Hello Sonoma!". Both provide deeper insight into the podcast production process, including tips on how to start and maintain your own podcast! Listen to Part 2 for more! Check out Francisco's podcast "Hello Sonoma!" Helpful podcast links to get started and/or learn more: Riverside - hgh quality audio and video recordingDescript - editing audio, text, and video all at onceCalendly –immensely useful scheduling toolAirtable - keeping track of your podcastBuzzsprout - podcast hosting platformPat Flynn Blog about Starting a PodcastSupport the show Visit georgewashingtoninstitute.org for the one-stop shop of all things Friends & Fellow Citizens and George Washington Institute! JOIN as a Patreon supporter and receive a FREE Friends & Fellow Citizens mug at the $25 membership level! NEW MERCH STORE! Click HERE to get your podcast mug now! NOTE: All views expressed by the host are presented in his personal capacity and do not officially represent the views of any affiliated organizations. All views by guests are solely those of the interviewees and may or may not reflect the views of the host or Friends & Fellow Citizens.