Panicked to Prepared

This episode addresses the hinge between panic and preparedness -- personally and politically. Although panic may feel easier to reach for during this current Presidential administration’s slide towards autocracy and authoritarianism, it's our time to prepare for ongoing battles. Whether we are stamping out our own fears or others' false belief in the existence of widespread voter fraud, we must be prepared to resist.

Word of the Week [1:01]: Autocracy and Authoritarianism: There is a very thin, gray line between these two concepts, so they are bundled together as we try to make sense of today's American leadership.

Phase 1 [5:28]: Prepared or Panicked: There's an entire industry that has been profiting from (affluent) people’s fear and anxiety of societal collapse, pandemics, economic instability, or even war. So, what happens when those of us who aren't affluent need to feel some sense stability in uncertain times? Can the panic industry provide us options?

Phase 2 [25:03]: SAVE Act: The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act is like trying to shoot a non-existent gnat with a cannon. Dr. Lisa explains how this bill that recently passed in the House can stymie voter registration potentially disenfranchising millions…if the Senate approves. 

Mentioned in the show

Secret Tunnels, Bunkers and Arsenals: The ‘Panic Industry’ Is Booming – The New York Times

Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act (SAVE) – Bill Text

What the SAVE Act could mean for millions of voters, according to a Brennan Center expert – NPR News

SAVE Act Explainer – NPR News

House passes bill to require proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections – NBC News