To solve America’s toughest challenges, we need to begin by listening to each other’s stories. The America’s Why Project (AWP) creates a space for conversations that invite Americans from all walks of life—and friends of America around the world—to explore their perspectives on America’s past, present, and future. By opening our ears and opening our hearts, we can start to rebuild mutual trust and rediscover our shared purpose. One story, one conversation, one open mic at a time.
Episode 20: Rediscovering Common Ground – How Congress Can Work Better
In the second episode of this two-part series, Casey Burgat, Director of the Legislative Affairs program at George Washington University, explores what could help Congress work better and rebuild incentives for cooperation. He discusses the bipartisan work that often happens outside the spotlight, the role voters play in rewarding political behavior, and structural reforms that could create more competitive elections. Burgat also reflects on what effective legislators do differently and why h...
30 Sept 2026
Episode 19: Insecure Majorities: Why Congress Doesn’t Work
In the first of two episodes diagnosing the ailments of the United States Congress, political analyst Casey Burgat explains how the politics of the perpetual campaign have undermined democratic governance in America. Burgat, who directs the Legislative Affairs program at the George Washington University, examines how intensifying competition between majority and minority parties in Congress incentivizes obstruction, how social media rewards performative politics instead of problem solving, an...
22 Sept 2026
Episode 18: Democracy on the Brink: America in the Age of Violent Populism
In this special episode, Prof. Robert Pape of the University of Chicago reveals the findings of this year’s most important book on the future of American democracy – Our Own Worst Enemies: America in the Age of Violent Populism. “What is happening in America,” warns Pape, “is not primarily a story of extremists seizing control; it is a story of the normalization of violence in the mainstream.” At this critical historical moment, democratic resilience “depends on citizens and leaders who maint...
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
13 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
7 ratings
Contact America's Why Project
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of America's Why Project?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
