Shows
We Made This Political PodcastEp. 11 Christina Dent: Rethinking Addiction with End It For GoodIn this episode of 'We Made This Political,' hosts Lura Forcum, President of the Independent Center, and Lauren Hall, author of the Substack the Radical Moderate’s Guide to Life, are joined by Christina Dent, founder of 'End It For Good.' The discussion dives into moving from a criminal justice mindset to a health-centered approach in dealing with drug addiction. Christina shares her personal journey, starting as a foster mom, and how it reshaped her views on substance use. Highlighting the complexities of addiction, the conversation also explores Christina's work in creating open, non-coercive spaces for dialogue ar...2025-07-281h 10
We Made This Political PodcastEp. 11: Dan Vallone on the Military, Democracy, and ParentingExploring Polarization and Moderation with Dan ValloneIn this episode, Lura Forcum and Lauren Hall are joined by Dan Vallone, a veteran and expert in depolarization work, who shares his experiences and insights on bridging divides, based on his work with More In Common and his military background. The conversation also touches on the challenges and rewards of parenting, the significance of genuine local engagement, and the hope for a more unified societal future.00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks01:26 Guest Introduction: Dan Vallone02:43 Dan Vallone's Journey to Depolarization Work03:40 The...2025-07-211h 02
Purple Political BreakdownIs Superman a Woke Movie? Political Solutions You Never Heard of Until Now!Purple Political Breakdown - Key Points from My Favorite Episodes So FarMEDIA & INFORMATION INTEGRITY"What is Informed? How Do We Solve Media Bias and Misinformation?" Ft. Kira ShishkinListen: https://share.alivepodcastnetwork.com/what-is-informed-how-do-we-solve-media-bias-and-misinformation-ft-kira-shishkin Key Points: The average person is drowning in headlines, spin, and clickbait Need for concise, factual, and bias-free news briefings Importance of breaking through the noise with facts-only approach Media bias and misinformation are solvable problems with the right tools"Alex Fink: Cutting Through the Noise of Online Politics"Listen: https://share.alivepodcastnetwork.com/alex-fink-cutting-through-the-noise-of-online-politics Key Points: AI-driven tools can eliminate junk news and clickbait content Nutrition la...2025-07-1741 min
Saving Elephants | Millennials defending & expressing conservative values182 – Partying Like It’s 1776On July 6 Saving Elephants assembled an august team of commentators to commemorate the advent of the United States turning the big 2-4-9! With only one year to go until the nation is 250 years old, the group reflects on the foundational ideas of America, whether she's succeed or failed at those aspirations, and what the future holds for this most exceptional of nations. Meet the panelists: Lura Forcum Lura Forcum leads the Independent Center, the nation’s go-to organization for information, research, and engagement with independent voters, repres...2025-07-151h 07
We Made This Political PodcastEp. 10 Veronique de RugyEpisode Title: We Made This Political – Parenting, Policy, and the French-American ExperienceHosts: Lura Forcum & Lauren HallGuest: Veronique de Rugy, Senior Research Fellow, Economist, and French-American parentAbout Our Guest:Veronique de Rugy is a Senior Research Fellow at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University, where she also holds a chair in economics. Originally from France, she earned her PhD in economics there before moving to the United States to complete her dissertation at George Mason. Veronique is a leading expert on budgetary and tax issues, government spending, and cronyism, and has worked at pr...2025-07-141h 13
The Cameron Journal PodcastThe Rise of the Independent Voter with Lura Forcum (independent Center)Today on The Cameron Journal Podcast we are joined by Lura Forcum from the Independent Center. They describe themselves as, "The Independent Center is the go-to organization for information, research, and engagement with independent voters, who now make up the majority of the electorate. We represent those who are fed up with partisan politics and feel politically homeless. We believe the future is not red or blue; it's fiscally responsible, socially inclusive, and free to choose the best options for ourselves, our families, and our communities.We are talking about how the current 2-party duopoly is not serving the...2025-07-1155 min
We Made This Political PodcastFourth of July SpecialIn this special July 4th episode, we explore what patriotism looks like in 2025 and what we are truly celebrating on Independence Day. Lura and Lauren emphasize the importance of community, civic engagement, and the unique diversity of American life. They share personal stories and reflections on local events, discussing how shared spaces and sustained interactions with diverse groups can reduce prejudice and foster unity. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing personal responsibilities and community involvement, the historical context of American values, and the evolving role of the presidency.Recommendations for celebrating include listening to...2025-07-0450 min
Political No-Brainer PodcastFinancial Futures: Teaching Independence Through Education with Lura Forcum S2:E27 In this episode of Political No-Brainer, host Jeff Rabinowitz welcomes Lura Forcum, president of the Independent Center, for a practical and empowering conversation about preparing the next generation for financial independence. They dive into the importance of teaching young people how to manage their finances, tackle student debt, and navigate the rising costs and challenges of higher education. With a focus on real-world life skills and nonpartisan solutions, Lura shares insights into how education systems and communities can better equip students for lifelong success. Guest: Lura Forcum Lura Forcum is president of the I...2025-07-031h 04
Político with Juan Collado DíazINDEPENDENT: Declare Your Independence | Ft. Lura ForcumWhat is Independent Voting, and why does it matter more now than ever? Your vote should reflect your true preferences and values, not be constrained by the artificial boundaries of party loyalty. In this episode, we’re joined by Lura Forcum from the Independent Center, who will discuss the importance of declaring your independence from the traditional red and blue parties. Lura explains why breaking free from partisan labels is essential for a healthier democracy and how independent voters can play a crucial role in creating meaningful change. Join us as we explore why choosing to vote independently is a...2025-07-0129 min
We Made This Political PodcastEp. 09: Ben Klutsey on the Power of PluralismIn this episode, we're joined by Ben Klutsey of the Mercatus Center to discuss pluralism, politics, and parenting. Ben shares his background and personal experiences that fueled his passion for pluralism, including his childhood experiences in Germany contrasted against his warm welcome in Appleton, Wisconsin. He delves into his academic and professional journey exploring pluralism, informed by luminaries like John Izu and through extensive conversations with scholars and public intellectuals. The conversation also touches on how pluralism can be practiced through innovative approaches like the Pluralist Lab and the importance of fostering virtues and curiosity in children. Ben's hopeful...2025-06-3054 min
A Gentlemen’s DisagreementEpisode 174 - Creating an independent (voter) identity with Lura ForcumLura Forcum of The Independent Center joins us to discuss how we might be able to turn the white whale of many American voters--independent candidates--into a reality.
2025-06-3048 min
We Made This Political PodcastEp. 08: William Glass, Millennial Debt FoundationWilliam Glass, Millennial Debt FoundationWilliam Glass is communications director of the Millennial Debt Foundation, based in Chattanooga, TN. He heads up the In the Black license plate program and hosts the podcast Gross Domestic Problem, among other activities.He has nearly a decade of experience building brands in e-commerce spaces and a few political campaigns under his belt.Show Notes: Navigating the National Debt with William GlassIn this episode, we're joined by William Glass, Communications Director at the Millennial Debt Foundation. Our discussion dives deep into the complexities of...2025-06-2345 min
Purple Political BreakdownUnderstaning the Value of Indepdent Voters & Swing States Will Change Politics Ft. Dr. Lura ForcumIn this compelling episode of Purple Political Breakdown, we dive deep into the growing movement of independent voters with Dr. Lura Forcum, President of the Independent Center and a force for political disruption in America's two-party system.
What This Episode Covers:
Dr. Forcum brings both academic rigor and real-world experience to our conversation about why independent votersnow 34% of the electorateare being systematically ignored by both major parties. With her PhD in consumer psychology and years in academia, she's uniquely positioned to explain how political parties have abandoned the middle in favor of negative advertising that...2025-06-191h 19
The San Francisco ExperienceAccountability in Politics: Is there such a thing ? Talking with Lura ForcumIndependent voters are a growing slice of the American electorate: They swung to Trump in 2024 and 2016 and Biden in 2020. The Independent Center focuses on these voters who are fiscally responsible, socially tolerant and free to choose the best options for themselves, their families and communities.2025-06-1941 min
We Made This Political PodcastEp. 07: WMTP News Round UpShow Notes:Join us as we discuss the challenges of managing personal and professional lives amid the current chaotic world events. We delve into balancing bureaucracy in education with what's happening nationally, the impact of continuous news cycles, and the 'flood the zone' strategy. We talk about federalism's role in resisting authoritarianism, the importance of maintaining neutral spaces, and the significance of understanding and connecting with people from differing political spectrums. Strategies for fostering civil dialogue and preserving the dignity of all individuals are key themes. Expect optimism, concrete thoughts, and a long-awaited kid bomb!00:00...2025-06-1659 min
We Made This Political PodcastEp. 06: Building Resilient Communities with Seth KaplanShow Notes:Ep. 06: Building Resilient Communities with Seth KaplanIn this episode of 'We Made This Political,' we talk with Seth Kaplan, an expert on fragile states, social cohesion, and community resilience. We discuss Kaplan's work, including his book 'Fragile Neighborhoods: Repairing American Society One Zip Code at a Time.' The conversation covers Kaplan's transition from studying international communities to focusing on American neighborhoods, the importance of strong local institutions, and practical steps for building trust and connectedness in communities. Kaplan emphasizes the need for local engagement, stewardship, and...2025-06-091h 09
The Politics GuysLura Forcum on the Power of IndependentsMike talks with Lura Forcum, president of the Independent Center, an organization that represents people who are fed up with partisan politics and feel politically homeless.
Topics Mike & Lura discuss include:
how Lura went from a marketing professor to running the Independent Center
true independents vs learners
if there are enough independents to make a real difference
whether partisan politics is such a bad thing
the two-party stranglehold on political power
how the Independent Center hopes to change things
Check out Lura's podcast: We Made This Political
The Independent Center on X
2025-06-0457 min
We Made This Political PodcastEp. 05: Shannon Watson - Reimagining Political Engagement with Insights from Majority in the MiddleReimagining Political Engagement: Majority in the Middle’s Shannon WatsonJoin us as we chat with Shannon Watson, founder of the nonprofit Majority in the Middle. We discuss the challenges of political partisanship, the importance of civic education, and how we can create spaces for constructive political engagement. Shannon shares insights on demographic shifts, the personal impacts of running for office, and the power of positive reinforcement in political discourse. Tune in to learn about making politics more inclusive and less adversarial.*There are a couple places where the audio in this episode is...2025-06-0252 min
Long Live Alternative PartiesUsing the term "Political Improvement" Instead of "Political Reform" and Leveraging Communication TheoriesDuring our last episode, the Independent Center's President Lura Forcum's discussed research mentioning that states independent voters prefer the term "Political Improvement" over the term "Political Reform". I discuss the ramifications of this as well as how I leveraged different communication theories to Advance this Alternative Parties cause.2025-05-2804 min
We Made This Political PodcastEp. 04: Austen CampbellIn this episode of 'We Made This Political,' hosts Lura Forcum and Lauren Hall introduce Austen Campbell, founder of the Independent National Coalition. Join them as they discuss the importance of independent thinking in politics, the challenges of the two-party system, and the need for coalition-driven strategies. They explore the potential of citizens' assemblies, the significance of representing diverse voices, and the necessity of genuine problem-solving over partisan politics. The conversation delves into the future of American politics, the role of technology, and the pressing issues facing the next generations.00:00 Introduction and Host Introductions00:36...2025-05-2748 min
Unapologetically OutspokenTHE RISE OF THE INDEPENDENT VOTER - A CONVERSATION WITH LURA FORCUMOn today's podcast, Tara and Stephanie have a conversation with Lura Forcum, President of the Independent Center, a non-partisan, non-profit organization with the mission of giving independent voters a voice in American politics. Your hosts talk with Lura about the growing influence of independent voters to swing election results, the failure of the current two-party political system, the need for government to be restructured from the ground up rather than the top down, and how the power of organizing and coming together as Americans on common sense issues and values can reshape the political landscape to create a more...2025-05-2643 min
Saving Elephants | Millennials defending & expressing conservative values178 – Revolt of the Independents with Lura ForcumThe 2024 presidential election witnessed a historic number of independent voters—more independents voted than Democrats and they came close to surpassing Republicans. It would seem that now is the time for those who are dissatisfied with both parties to dismantle the two-party duopoly of American government. And yet, the Republican and Democratic parties collectively control all branches of governments at all levels. Why is that? What would it mean for Americans to embrace an “independent” politics and how likely is that to occur? What do independent voters actually want? Joining Saving Elephants host Josh Lewis is president of the Independent...2025-05-201h 09
We Made This Political PodcastEp. 03 Relational PoliticsEpisode three is up! We’re still working out the kinks over here, including experimenting a bit with sound quality and some other things. Hopefully each episode will get a bit better.Send us any and all feedback, including ideas for new episodes! And if you like what you read, please share and subscribe! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit wemadethispolitical.substack.com2025-05-1936 min
Let Them Eat ToastThe Future of Independent Voters: Lura ForcumOff_JaWaggon and Taylor bring on an interesting guest this week who believes in the impact of the Independent voter. We generally don't consider independents to be a massive force for change but Lura makes the case. In this conversation, Laura Forcum discusses the role of independent voters in the political landscape, emphasizing the importance of engaging those who feel politically homeless. She shares insights from her research on political values, the impact of social media on polarization, and the emotional dynamics of outrage. The discussion also touches on the need for belonging in political ideologies and the future...2025-05-131h 27Long Live Alternative PartiesInterview with the Independent Center's President Lura ForcumI had the honor of interviewing the Independent Center's President Lura Forcum.To get involved with the Independent Center, kindly visit their website https://www.independentcenter.org2025-05-0847 min
We Made This Political PodcastEp. 01: We Made This Political!Welcome to the launch episode of 'We Made This Political,' a new podcast by Lura Forcum and Lauren Hall. In this introductory episode, Lura and Lauren discuss their goals, backgrounds, and what listeners can expect. The podcast aims to explore the intersections of modern life and politics, drawing on their diverse academic and personal experiences. They touch on parenting, polarization, and the need for better political discourse, setting the stage for future episodes. Expect candid conversations, tech hiccups, and even some pet and kid interruptions.00:00 Welcome to Our New Podcast!00:58...2025-04-2518 min
We Made This Political PodcastEp. 02: Control and Agency in Parenting and PoliticsNavigating Control and Agency in Politics and ParentingIn the second episode of 'We Made This Political,' hosts Lura Forcum and Lauren Hall explore the concepts of control versus agency through the lenses of political science, psychology, and parenting. We discuss Mel Robbins' book 'The Let Them Theory' and its relevance to reducing anxiety by relinquishing control. We delve into psychological theories like illusory control, locus of control, and reactance to explain how people respond to attempts at control. The conversation also touches on the implications of these ideas for public policy, highlighting the...2025-04-2551 min
Gross Domestic ProblemDebt, Despair, and Dialogue: Reimagining America's Fiscal Future with Lura Forcum of Independent CenterKey topics in today’s conversation include:Welcoming Lura to the Show (1:00)Fiscal Health and Individual Well-Being (2:26)Connecting Government Spending to Personal Impact (4:44)Visualizing the Fiscal Problem (8:21)Understanding the Scale of Spending (10:08)Millennials' Views on Entitlement Reform (13:53)The Political Challenge of Fiscal Reform (16:01)Generational Misunderstanding in Fiscal Conversations (19:42)Research on Voter Segmentation (23:57)Polarization vs. Shared Values (26:31)Demographic Shifts in Voting (31:15)Non-Ideological Voting Trends (34:34)Party Leadership and Direction (41:05)Engagement in Local Government (46:34)Understanding Political Dynamics (48:06)Bridging Political Divides (51:47)Final Thoughts and Takeaways (52:16)Gross Domestic Problem is a podcast from the Millennial Debt Foundation focusing on America's biggest financial cr...2025-04-2353 min
Deep Dive with ShawnThe Politically Homeless Majority: How Independents Could Save Democracy (w/ Dr. Lura Forcum)Send us a textAmerica's political divisions seem insurmountable, yet beneath the surface lies a compelling counternarrative: the moderate middle hasn't disappeared—it's just been silenced. In this episode, Dr. Lura Forcum, president of the Independent Center, to discuss the surprising vitality of centrist politics (and centrist voters) in a polarized age.The numbers tell an unexpected story. With 35% of Americans identifying as moderate (compared to 36% conservative and 26% liberal), and nearly half of voters calling themselves independents, the politically homeless constitute a sleeping giant in American politics. Research from the Independent Center reveals these voters of...2025-03-3049 min
Politics with PaulPolitics with Paul #33: Psychology and Viewpoints of Independents w/ Guest Lura ForcumWhat do independent voters really think? My special guest today is Lura Forcum, president of the Independent Center, and she gives her insights into this question from research she's done and discussions she's had with other independents. Lura gives her take on what are common traits of independents, how cohesive a group they are, how they can address the polarization gap in America, and more. Big thanks to Lura for coming on the show!
Today's random question of the day: Would you rather be able to play every musical instrument or speak every language?
Purchase my book on Amazon...2025-03-281h 03
Political No-Brainer PodcastThe Power of the Middle: Charting a Path for Independents – Featuring Lura Forcum - S2:E11 In this episode of Political No-Brainer, host Jeff Rabinowitz welcomes Lura Forcum, president of the Independent Center, for a compelling conversation about the role of Independents in today's polarized political landscape. They explore the current challenges and opportunities for independent voters, discuss key policy issues, and highlight how the Independent Center is working to unite Americans around shared values and common ground. Lura shares the organization’s mission to be a strong voice for millions who feel politically homeless, offering a hopeful path forward for those tired of partisan extremes. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on bridging divides an...2025-03-2156 min
Conversation MillIndependent CenterAre you frustrated with the state of politics today? Do you feel like neither party truly represents your voice? You're not alone. In fact, the majority of Americans now identify as independent—but their voices are often overlooked in Washington.In this episode, we sit down with Lura Forcum, President of the Independent Center, to discuss how her organization is working to change that. The Independent Center isn’t a political party—it’s a movement. By researching, advocating, and engaging independent voters, they are ensuring that common-sense solutions and bipartisan collaboration become a priority in our governme...2025-03-1744 min
Right About Now with Ryan AlfordEmpowering Independent Voters: The Keys to Ending Political Polarization with Lura ForcumRight About Now with Ryan AlfordJoin media personality and marketing expert Ryan Alford as he dives into dynamic conversations with top entrepreneurs, marketers, and influencers. "Right About Now" brings you actionable insights on business, marketing, and personal branding, helping you stay ahead in today's fast-paced digital world. Whether it's exploring how character and charisma can make millions or unveiling the strategies behind viral success, Ryan delivers a fresh perspective with every episode. Perfect for anyone looking to elevate their business game and unlock their full potential.Resources:Right About Now NewsletterFree...2025-02-0439 min
Law of Attraction SECRETSWhat Is Important To Me?What if you had MORE freedom—more choices in politics, in life, in how you create your own future? In this thought-provoking episode of The Law of Attraction Secrets podcast, I sit down with Lura Forcum from The Independent Center, and we’re diving deep into how YOU can reclaim your power and make your voice heard.✨ Are you feeling politically homeless?✨ Do you want leaders who actually align with YOUR values?✨ Curious about how choice + freedom impact your life beyond politics?We’re talking authenticity, self-empowerment, and rewriting the script—not just in po...2025-01-3134 min
The Homeless ConservativeEp076 - The Case for H-1B VisasLura Forcum from independentcenter.org and Gabriel Nadales from joinouramerica.org join me today for a discussion on H-1B visas. The discussion highlights the contrasting views on immigration, the skills gap in the workforce, and the political challenges in reforming immigration policy. highlights the entrepreneurial spirit of immigrants and the importance of fast-tracking citizenship for those who contribute to the economy. We touche on the shortcomings of the American education system in preparing students for the workforce, the significant presence of foreign students in STEM fields, and the cultural differences in attitudes towards education.
2025-01-3053 min
RealClearPolitics PodcastDemocrats’ Reactions to Trump’s Plans, Attorney General Nominee Pam Bondi’s Possible Role in Pardoning the January 6th Defendants, and a New CBSNews/YouGov Poll that Shows a Majority of Americans Approve of the Trump Transition So FarAndrew, Carl, and RCP White House correspondent Phil Wegmann discuss a new CBSNews/YouGov poll that shows a majority of Americans approve of the Trump transition so far, and examine Democrats’ reaction to Trump’s plans including Mayor Mike Johnston of Denver who promises to resist the deportation of illegal immigrants from his city. They also talk about Attorney General nominee Pam Bondi’s possible role in pardoning the January 6th defendants, and a recent New York Times article on how older Americans react when their children decide not to procreate due to fear of global warming. Plus, Phil Wegmann discus...2024-11-2645 min
The Rod & Greg ShowRod Arquette Show w/ Greg Hughes: Recapping the GOP Convention; Liz Peek of Fox News on Trump's Convention SpeechRod Arquette Show with Greg Hughes Daily Rundown – Friday, July 19, 20244:20 pm: Dr. Jacob Hess, a contributor to the Deseret News, joins Rod and Greg today for a conversation about his piece on why he thinks so many deeply conservative Republicans that once opposed Donald Trump are now supporting him.4:38 pm: Fox News columnist Liz Peek joins Rod and Greg to give us her reaction to Donald Trump’s speech during the GOP Convention last night.6:05 pm: Lura Forcum, Director of Marketing Communications for the State Policy Network, joins the show to discuss her piece for...2024-07-201h 34
She ThinksLura Forcum: Is Treating Your Pet Like a Human Hurting More Than Helping?On this week’s episode, we address a big question—do you treat your pet like a human? And if so, are you doing more harm than good? Lura Forcum has done significant research in this area and joins the podcast to help us determine the unintended consequences of pet parents doting on their fur babies. We review the financial strain and debt many Americans incur, the marketing industry that’s making bank, the healthcare decisions that cause pain instead of alleviate suffering, and the numerous ways thinking your pet is just like you does more harm than good. 2023-02-0329 min
Tallest Tree SEO PodcastThink Tank Ranking PreviewIn a short episode, Cord and Einar preview the new and improved Tallest Tree Think Tank Ranking. The new rankings will be automated, updated monthly, and incorporate more data than ever. This includes:Budget data from ProPublicaTraffic, traffic value, domain rating, and backlink data from AhrefsPages indexed from Serp APIWeb software from WappalyzerWe're now able to pull historical traffic data from Ahrefs, which will give us insights into the last 36 months of performance for each of the 300+ groups in our study. We thank Ahrefs, who reviewed and approved our use of this data, for their support o...2022-12-1231 min