Finding Hope in the Power of Optimism and Listening

I was honored to be interviewed by Michael Whidden of American Tributaries, a not-for-profit embracing core values of curiosity, respect, compassion, and humility and dedicated to promoting fellowship and understanding through podcasts and travel for US high school students.   

I shared about my upbringing and life, including having a wonderful family and meaningful career opportunities. I served as a NH State Representative, Assistant Secretary of State, Peace Corps Volunteer in Morocco, leader of a USAID democracy project in the Rwanda parliament, and Peace Corps Country Director in Ukraine and several African nations.   

I talked about what led me to actively volunteer with Braver Angels (https://braverangels.org/), the national citizens movement that brings Americans together to bridge the partisan divide and strengthen our democratic republic. Most recently, I have been working with the NH legislators who created a Braver Angels-inspired caucus they named the Granite Bridge Legislative Alliance! 

Last year, Braver Angels held a national convention in Gettysburg, PA. At the opening session, the nearly 700 in attendance from across the political spectrum were asked why we came. I wrote, “I worry that my grandchildren will not enjoy the benefits of this country that I have.” This is a major focus in the final years of my life and why I am writing a book with the working title Beyond the Politics of Contempt:  Practical Steps You Can Take to Make Our Country Better.  I am looking for a publisher and welcome any suggestions! 

On his website (www.AmericanTributaries.com), Michael Whidden titled my podcast as “Polarization, Purity, and Braver Politics” and wrote that, “Doug finds hope in the power of optimism and listening.” Have a look at  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7yYqfzfkFs  

We each have an extraordinary opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives, including our own. Don’t underestimate your impact!