Choosing Hope: Reflections From a Podcast Conversation on Civic Possibility

I recently had the pleasure of hosting a podcast conversation with a dynamic duo from The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation: Michael Prihoda, Director of Media and Creative Content, and Menal Khanna, National Campaign Manager. Together, we explored The Harwood Institute's powerful approach to community‑driven change and reflected on the long‑standing relationship with The Patterson Foundation (TPF), which began back in 2012.

We talked about the practices and approaches that have shaped both organizations…listening, not arriving with the answers, turning outward, and meeting communities where they are. These principles are deeply embedded in TPF's culture and continue to guide how we work alongside people and organizations across our region.

This episode focused on The New Civic Path, the new book by Rich Harwood, President of The Harwood Institute, and the impact of local book circles across our four‑county region. We also shared how anyone can join the National New Civic Path Virtual Book Circle on June 2 at 12:30pm.

Across the country, people are wrestling with how we engage in civic dialogue. At the same time, there is a deep desire to connect, to build amid our differences, and to move forward through shared aspirations. When we leave politics at the door and focus on what matters most in our communities, we create space for a civic mindset shift. One that is intentional, hopeful, and rooted in action.

We also discussed the broader moment our country is in: a crisis of belief. Many feel that politics are broken and that trust in systems, organizations, leaders, and even one another has faded. Yet, the work happening in communities shows that belief can be restored, one conversation, one gathering, one small action at a time.

As we approach the 250th birthday of our nation, this is a powerful moment to reflect on how we can do better and be better. The New Civic Path offers a shared direction: bringing people together, fostering relationships, sparking ideas, and creating ripple effects that strengthen our communities.

We closed with a reminder that each day we wake up with a choice: to be an agent of hope or to unintentionally spread false hope. None of us will get it right every day, but being conscious of how we show up matters. Our communities need more hope, and each of us has a role to play in offering it as we journey together.

Click here to register for the National Book Circle on June from 12:30pm – 1:30pm.

Watch or listen to the full podcast here.