Overview

This short listen introduces the idea of Targeted Universalism. It explains how a shared goal can guide a community while different groups may need different steps to reach it. You’ll hear simple examples and ways to start practicing the idea in everyday work.

This Mind & Life article introduces a study led by social psychologist Rémi Thériault (NYU). The idea is simple: reading clear, thoughtful nonfiction for about 10 minutes a day may help people understand others and work well together. Participants read for 10 weeks. The team looks at changes in care for others, how we speak with people who see things differently, and whether readers feel more connected. Books are picked for easy reading and helpful themes, using both expert review and AI tools. Earlier work from the team suggests that reading plus reflection can be a welcoming first step. The public is invited to suggest book titles for future rounds.

Frientimacy: The 3 Requirements of All Healthy Friendships” by Shasta Nelson
TEDx Talk | 16 min video
A powerful and funny talk by our very own Chief Friendship Officer that breaks down what makes friendships meaningful and how to strengthen the ones you have.

Young people already want to work alongside adults to solve community issues—but often lack spaces with real power or connection reciprocal collaboration.

Generational divisions are deepening just when collaboration is needed most. CoGenerate addresses this by building intergenerational bridges that spark innovation, expand belonging, and nurture mutual understanding—offering a replicable model of age-integrated social progress.

Contempt-driven language erodes trust, escalates division, and fuels extremism. The Dignity Index offers a practical, measurable approach to create a new standard in public dialogue—centered on mutual respect and possibility.

Pathways to Repair offers a dynamic, accessible model for transforming division into dialogue. Through story-based engagements and facilitated discussions, they equip participants to engage with empathy and accountability across lines of difference—including political, racial, and generational divides. In a time of increasing polarization, their work helps build the social cohesion and trust needed to create resilient, equitable communities.

Houston's diverse and dynamic landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. Impact Hub Houston addresses these by fostering a collaborative environment where social entrepreneurs can thrive. By providing resources, mentorship, and a global network, they enable changemakers to develop solutions that are not only innovative but also equitable and sustainable.

This 2025 report from More in Common’s Beacon Project explores how Americans across political, racial, and generational lines share a belief in “morally directed agency”—the idea that individuals have both the right and responsibility to improve their lives and contribute to their communities. Drawing on surveys of over 60,000 people and in-depth interviews, the report reveals that most Americans value personal agency alongside a desire for systems that provide opportunity. It proposes a unifying civic vision rooted in empowerment, shared purpose, and mutual obligation.

This book is foundational for those who feel disconnected from traditional politics or unsure how to contribute. Liu demystifies power and provides a roadmap for civic agency—particularly valuable in the face of polarization, inequality, and distrust. It’s a call to move from cynicism to creativity, helping readers unlock their own potential to shape institutions, narratives, and outcomes.

Good Good Good offers more than a break from the bad news—it’s a compass for building civic resilience. Their radical transparency, editorial integrity, and community-first values create a roadmap for how media can heal rather than harm.