What happens to a society when the family weakens—and institutions try to take its place?In this episode of Restitch America, host Alma Ohene-Opare sits down with Jackson Lahmeyer to explore the ideas behind the article “Family: The Original Social Safety Net.” Together, they discuss why family was humanity’s first source of protection, identity, and responsibility—and why no government program can truly replace it.This conversation unpacks how strong families shape strong citizens, how cultural shifts have redefined responsibility and belonging, and why restoring family as a foundational institution is essential for America’s future. From faith and civic life to youth engagement and leadership, this episode challenges listeners to rethink where real support, stability, and community begin.About the GuestJackson Lahmeyer is a national faith leader, conservative voice, and a member of the White House Faith Council, where he helps guide spiritual and policy direction. He was present when Donald J. Trump signed the Executive Order establishing the council.He is the founder of Pastors For Trump, a nationwide coalition uniting Christian leaders across all 50 states to engage boldly in the public square. Jackson also serves as lead pastor of Sheridan Church and founder of Sheridan Bible College, where he mentors the next generation of leaders committed to faith, freedom, and service.Connect with Jackson:Website: www.jacksonlahmeyer.comInstagram: @jacksonlahmeyerTwitter/X: @JacksonLahmeyerFacebook: facebook.com/jacksonlahmeyer🎙️ In This Episode, You’ll Hear:Why family existed before governments, policies, or institutionsHow over-reliance on the state weakens relational responsibilityThe role of faith, community, and leadership in rebuilding familiesWhy strong families are essential to strong citizenship and national unityIf you care about faith, family, culture, and the future of America, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.Subscribe for weekly conversations on culture, unity, and restoring what holds America together—stitch by stitch.Subscribe: www.willfulpositivity.com

In this episode of Restitch America, host Alma Ohene-Opare sits down with Lisa Ekman, a thoughtful voice on cultural cohesion and civil dialogue, to unpack the ideas in the article “The Tolerance Paradox.”What happens when tolerance becomes an excuse to ignore truth? When openness to difference turns into division? And when the very thing meant to unify us — acceptance — ends up eroding the moral and civic bonds that hold communities together?Alma and Lisa explore how modern culture’s approach to tolerance can backfire, leaving people unmoored, disengaged, or at odds with one another. They dive into how tolerance can be re-understood not as passive acceptance of all things, but as a practice rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and the courage to disagree well.This conversation is ideal for anyone who cares about:• What tolerance really means in a complex society• Why acceptance shouldn’t dismiss truth or principles• How communities can balance difference with shared identity• How cultural dialogue can move from signal-blocking to bridge-building• Practical ways to live alongside disagreement with civilityGuest Bio:Lisa Ekman is an author, patriot, and former Washington, D.C. advocate who spent over two decades working on disability policy across government, nonprofit, and legislative spaces. After leaving Washington in 2020, she moved to a farm in Virginia and began publicly reflecting on culture, ideology, and civic responsibility. Lisa is the author of Deprogramming Democrats & unEducating the Elites and now speaks and writes about restoring truth, unity, and moral clarity in American life.Connect with Lisa: X: @deprogrammeddemWebsite: demprogrammingdemocrats.com👉 Subscribe to Restitch America for weekly conversations that strengthen purpose, connection, and shared citizenship.Subscribe: www.willfulpositivity.com

Can positivity be a discipline — not just a feeling — especially in a season meant for hope?

In this special Christmas-season episode, Alma Ohene-Opare is joined by Dr. Ginny Murtaugh, retired dentist, artist, and graduate student in positive psychology, for a timely conversation inspired by the article “Willful Positivity in a Negative Age.”

Together, Alma and Ginny explore what it means to practice intentional optimism in a culture overwhelmed by cynicism, outrage, and constant negativity — and why the Christmas season calls us back to meaning, gratitude, and renewal.

Ginny brings a unique perspective shaped by 30 years in dentistry, her current studies in positive psychology at the University of Missouri, and her lifelong commitment to learning, creativity, and human flourishing. From neuroscience to daily habits, she explains how positivity can be cultivated — personally, relationally, and culturally.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why positivity must be chosen — not passively hoped for

• How Christmas reminds us of light in dark seasons

• The role of gratitude, meaning, and responsibility in mental well-being

• How positive psychology can strengthen individuals, families, and communities

• Why cultivating hope is an act of courage in today’s culture

This conversation is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and choose joy with intention — not as escapism, but as a disciplined response to a fractured world.

Perfect for the Christmas season and anyone seeking clarity, hope, and purpose.