In this special episode of The Way Forward, we confront the stark realities emerging from the latest U.S. elections. With America seemingly more divided than ever, we explore what’s truly at stake for our democracy, our environment, and our social fabric. How do we face an uncertain future? This is not just politics—this is about the values we stand for and the world we wish to leave for our children. Tune in as we grapple with what this election reveals and the urgent questions that we now all face.

In this reflective episode, John, Alain, and Jim dive into the aftermath of the recent U.S. presidential and congressional elections. They share their personal reactions and examine the underlying issues driving this pivotal moment in history. They discuss what the results mean for America’s future, the motives driving voters, and the urgent need to rebuild community through genuine conversations. The hosts also commit to moving forward by inviting more diverse voices to the podcast and focusing on the role of dialogue in bridging divides.

We would like to thank our sponsors, Elders Action Network and Elders Climate Action, for their continued support. Your commitment to fostering a better future for our children and our planet makes conversations like these possible. Together, we stand strong in our mission to inspire generational action and create a more just and sustainable world. Thank you for your dedication and for being part of our journey.

As we approach this pivotal election, the very fabric of our democracy is at risk. What happens if we let polarization and misinformation guide our choices? In this episode, John Sorensen joins us as we dissect what's truly at stake. Could we lose our rights, freedoms, and the values that make our democracy thrive. Join us as we dive deeply into the hard questions of who we want to be as a nation and how we preserve the democratic principles we hold dear.

In this episode, John Sorensen returns to discuss the state of American democracy in the context of the upcoming election. We explore pressing questions about misinformation, the dangers of polarization, and the necessity for civic engagement. John shares the important work he and Elders Action Network (EAN) are doing through Elders for Sound Democracy, focusing on initiatives to protect voting rights, counteract the influence of big money in politics, and support marginalized communities in exercising their right to vote. Together, we challenge the audience to think about the future of our country, the importance of being informed citizens, and why our democracy needs an evolution—a peaceful revolution—to truly reflect the will of the people.

Prior to his involvement with Elders Actin Network, John ran a successful aerospace business for twenty years, which he sold in 2005. Following this, he embarked on a personal journey, including humanitarian work in Vietnam that profoundly impacted his worldview and led to his commitment to elder activism.

We want to thank our sponsors, Elders Action Network and Elders Climate Action, for their continued support of this podcast. Their dedication to fostering a resilient and empowered elder community has allowed us to bring these vital conversations to you. We appreciate their unwavering commitment to addressing the most urgent issues of our time, from democracy to climate action.

Join us as we talk as we hold a conversation with renowned farmer and activist Michael Ableman as he unearths the incredible potential of urban farming to heal our cities, our communities, and our souls. In this episode we explore how growing food in unexpected places can be a powerful act of resilience and regeneration. From feeding marginalized communities to reconnecting with the land, this is a conversation that will leave you rethinking the future of food and how you can be part of the solution.

In this episode, Michael Ableman shares his inspiring journey in urban agriculture, from the creation of Sole Food Street Farms to his lifelong dedication to sustainable farming practices. He discusses the powerful intersection of food, social justice, and community-building, offering practical insights into how urban farming can transform lives. Ableman also reflects on the broader impact of sustainable agriculture and the need for innovative approaches to feeding a rapidly urbanizing world. This conversation highlights the profound social, ecological, and mental health benefits of reconnecting with the land and growing food.

Michael Ableman is a renowned farmer, author, photographer, and one of the pioneers of the urban agriculture movement. With a career spanning over four decades, he has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable farming practices and advocating for food security, social justice, and environmental stewardship. Ableman co-founded Sole Food Street Farms, one of North America's largest urban agriculture initiatives, providing employment and purpose to marginalized communities in Vancouver. He is the author of several acclaimed books, including Street Farm, Fields of Plenty, and From the Good Earth, and his work has been featured in publications worldwide. Ableman continues to inspire through his commitment to sustainable agriculture and community healing.

We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our sponsors, Elders Action Network and Elders Climate Action, for their unwavering support in helping us bring these critical conversations to life. Your dedication to creating a better future for all generations makes this work possible, and we are deeply grateful for your partnership