Can Young People Save Democracy?: The Crisis of Political Apathy Among Young Voters

Can Young People Save Democracy?: The Crisis of Political Apathy Among Young Voters

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Steven Swank, president of the ODU Democrats, for a wide-ranging conversation about political identity, civic engagement, religion, education, and what motivates people to get involved in the political process. Steven shares his journey from growing up in a conservative Christian household in Indiana to becoming a politically active college student and leader on campus. He reflects on how family influences, media consumption, religion, and personal experiences shaped his early beliefs and what ultimately led him to reevaluate them. Along the way, he discusses the challenges of changing your mind, questioning long-held assumptions, and finding your own values. Adam and Steven dive into the realities of rebuilding a student political organization, registering voters, and encouraging civic participation among young people. They discuss the political apathy that exists on many college campuses, why some students choose not to engage in politics, and what can be done to inspire greater involvement in local and national issues. The conversation also explores education, science, and the growing distrust of institutions in American society. Steven shares his thoughts on anti-intellectualism, public education, misinformation, scientific literacy, and why he believes changing your opinion in response to new information should be viewed as a strength rather than a weakness. Adam and Steven discuss religion and faith, comparing their experiences growing up in religious households and eventually identifying as atheists. Together, they examine how faith, morality, and personal values intersect with politics and how their worldviews have evolved over time. The episode also tackles larger questions about economics, inequality, political messaging, and the future of American democracy. From healthcare and education to political polarization and voter engagement, Adam and Steven explore the challenges facing the country and what they believe is needed to create a more informed and engaged society. Whether you agree with their perspectives or not, this episode offers an honest conversation about politics, civic responsibility, and the importance of questioning assumptions, staying informed, and participating in the democratic process. Learn more about Steven Swank and the ODU Democrats: @odudems [https://www.instagram.com/odudems/] Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ [https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/] Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast] Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/actoutpodcast/] & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@actoutpodcast] Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise [https://www.instagram.com/taradiiiise/] and @‌tarayakisauce [https://www.tiktok.com/@tarayakisauce]

Building a Business, Building a Voice: Why Waiting for Permission Keeps You Stuck

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with entrepreneur, broadcaster, and media personality Arrington Gavin for a conversation about entrepreneurship, podcasting, radio, personal branding, and what it takes to build a platform from the ground up. Arrington shares his journey from studying health and wellness in college to launching Rugged Evolution, a beard care company that started as a passion project and grew into a nationally distributed brand featured in major retailers and publications. What began as a personal mission to challenge outdated ideas about professionalism and appearance eventually evolved into a thriving business built on confidence, authenticity, and persistence. Adam and Arrington dive into the realities of entrepreneurship, discussing the challenges of starting a business while still in college, learning to sell, overcoming fear of public speaking, and navigating the ups and downs of growing a brand. Arrington reflects on the lessons he learned from his entrepreneurial parents, why he believes discomfort is often a sign of growth, and how building Rugged Evolution helped prepare him for an entirely different venture: media. The conversation also explores the creation and evolution of The Arrington Gavin Show. Inspired by a lifelong love of talk radio and conversation, Arrington built a platform that now reaches audiences through podcasting, radio, YouTube, and television. He shares how the show grew from a small passion project into a multi-platform media presence covering politics, pop culture, entertainment, entrepreneurship, and current events. Adam and Arrington discuss the changing media landscape, the importance of creating opportunities for underrepresented voices, and why long-form conversations remain valuable in a world dominated by short-form content. Together, they unpack the role of curiosity, storytelling, and authentic communication in building an audience and creating meaningful connections. If you've ever dreamed of starting a business, launching a podcast, building a personal brand, or turning a passion into a platform, this episode offers an inspiring look at entrepreneurship, media, and the power of betting on yourself. Learn more about Arrington Gavin: * The Arrington Gavin Show: https://theagshow.com/ [https://theagshow.com/] * Follow Arrington on Instagram: @‌thearringtongavinshow [https://www.instagram.com/thearringtongavinshow/] * Rugged Evolution Beard Care [https://ruggedevo.com/] Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Want to be a guest on the ACT OUT podcast? Send Adam Tomlin a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc [https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc] Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ [https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/] Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast] Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/actoutpodcast/] & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@actoutpodcast] Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise [https://www.instagram.com/taradiiiise/] and @‌tarayakisauce [https://www.tiktok.com/@tarayakisauce]

Why Great Leaders Welcome Different Opinions

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Morgan DeNicola, Executive Director of the DeNicola Family Foundation, for an inspiring conversation about philanthropy, leadership, global service, and what it really means to create lasting impact. Morgan shares how a life-changing trip to Africa led her away from a career in marketing and into the world of nonprofit work, where she now oversees global initiatives focused on education, conservation, healthcare, the arts, and humanitarian aid. From meeting world leaders and the Pope to working alongside organizations making a difference around the globe, Morgan offers a behind-the-scenes look at how meaningful change happens—and why relationships and cultural understanding are at the heart of effective leadership. Adam and Morgan explore the importance of curiosity, travel, and experiencing different cultures as a way to become better leaders and better people. They discuss how philanthropy extends far beyond writing checks, the power of building genuine connections across cultures, and why some of the world's biggest challenges can only be solved through collaboration and compassion. The conversation also dives into purpose, gratitude, family values, and how Morgan's entrepreneurial upbringing shaped her commitment to giving back. She reflects on balancing business with service, the lessons she's learned from global humanitarian work, and why optimism remains one of the most important leadership qualities in today's world. If you've ever wondered how philanthropy creates real-world change, what global humanitarian work looks like behind the scenes, or how travel and cultural experiences can transform the way you lead, this episode offers an inspiring perspective on service, purpose, and making a difference. Learn more about Morgan Denicola here [https://www.morgandenicola.com/]. Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Want to be a guest on the ACT OUT podcast? Send Adam Tomlin a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc [https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc] Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ [https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/] Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast] Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/actoutpodcast/] & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@actoutpodcast] Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise [https://www.instagram.com/taradiiiise/] and @‌tarayakisauce [https://www.tiktok.com/@tarayakisauce]

Getting Involved: How Young Leaders Change Politics

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Ty Champion, Vice Chairman of the Norfolk Democratic Committee and President of the Black Caucus of the Virginia Young Democrats, for a candid conversation about politics, public service, leadership, and what motivates people to get involved in their communities. Ty shares his journey from growing up in Norfolk to earning a master’s degree in architecture at Hampton University before finding his passion in political organizing and advocacy. What began as an interest sparked by the 2008 presidential election evolved into a commitment to helping young people become engaged, informed, and empowered participants in the political process. Adam and Ty dive into the realities of grassroots organizing, campaign work, and political leadership. Ty reflects on volunteering for local campaigns, working his way into leadership positions, and learning firsthand that leadership often finds people before they think they're ready for it. He also shares stories from his experiences with the Hampton Roads Young Democrats, navigating organizational growth, fundraising, and the challenges of building sustainable movements that are bigger than any one person. The conversation explores the importance of representation in politics, civic engagement, and why local elections matter more than many people realize. Ty discusses the impact of seeing leaders who looked like him, how mentors helped shape his path, and why creating opportunities for future generations remains one of his biggest priorities. Adam and Ty also tackle difficult topics including political polarization, higher education, student loan debt, media narratives, and the growing divide in American politics. Together, they examine how people form political identities, the role of personal experiences in shaping beliefs, and why meaningful conversations across differences are becoming increasingly important. Throughout the episode, Ty emphasizes the value of community, mentorship, and staying engaged even when political systems feel frustrating or imperfect. Rather than focusing solely on elections, he encourages listeners to think about how they can make an impact in their neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, and local governments. If you've ever wondered how someone gets involved in politics, what grassroots organizing actually looks like, or why local leadership matters, this episode offers an honest and insightful look at civic engagement, public service, and building change from the ground up. Learn more about Ty Champion here [https://www.instagram.com/tychampionva?igsh=MTJjemFvYWhjanM0ZA==]. Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Want to be a guest on the ACT OUT podcast? Send Adam Tomlin a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc [https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc] Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ [https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/] Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast] Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/actoutpodcast/] & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@actoutpodcast] Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise [https://www.instagram.com/taradiiiise/] and @‌tarayakisauce [https://www.tiktok.com/@tarayakisauce]

Men’s Mental Health, Masculinity, and the Power of Community

Welcome back to the ACT OUT podcast! In this episode, host Adam Tomlin sits down with Jason Lange, founder of Evolutionary Men and a longtime men's group facilitator, for a thought-provoking conversation about modern masculinity, men's mental health, community, and the challenges facing men today. Jason shares his personal journey into men's work, which began in 2006, and explains how men's groups have evolved from niche gatherings into a growing movement focused on emotional well-being, personal growth, and authentic connection. Adam and Jason explore why so many men struggle with loneliness, isolation, and identity in a rapidly changing world—and why the traditional definition of masculinity no longer works for many men. The conversation dives deep into topics like the "man box," emotional vulnerability, fatherhood, provider culture, and the rise of online influencers who promise simple solutions to complex problems. Jason challenges the idea that masculinity itself is the problem and argues that what society needs is not less masculinity, but healthier masculinity—men who are connected to themselves, their emotions, and their communities. Adam and Jason also discuss the growing mental health crisis among men, the importance of meaningful male friendships, and why vulnerability is often viewed as weakness when it can actually become a powerful form of leadership. Together, they unpack how men's groups help participants move beyond shame, build self-awareness, and develop stronger relationships with themselves and others. The conversation also explores social media, approval-seeking, therapy, coaching, and the role community plays in helping men resist manipulation, overcome isolation, and create more fulfilling lives. Jason shares why connection—not achievement—is often the missing ingredient in many men's lives and how finding a supportive group can dramatically change a person's outlook and well-being. If you've ever wondered what healthy masculinity looks like, why men are struggling with connection, or how men's groups can help foster growth, confidence, and emotional resilience, this episode offers a refreshing and insightful perspective on what it means to be a man in today's world. Learn more about Jason Lange: https://evolutionary.men/talk [https://evolutionary.men/talk] Tune in every Thursday for episodes that inspire, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re here for laughs, lived wisdom, or action steps, the ACT OUT podcast is your space to rethink growth, embrace self-awareness, and act out your passions. Want to be a guest on the ACT OUT podcast? Send Adam Tomlin a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc [https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17697025629686282ce7409dc] Other ways to follow and connect with the ACT OUT podcast: Learn more at:https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/ [https://www.theactoutpodcast.com/] Subscribe to the show on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@theACTOUTpodcast] Follow the show on Instagram: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/actoutpodcast/] & TikTok: @‌actoutpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@actoutpodcast] Credits: Mural: Tara E. @‌taradiiiise [https://www.instagram.com/taradiiiise/] and @‌tarayakisauce [https://www.tiktok.com/@tarayakisauce]