The American Leader looks at the world through a problem-solving lens because we think that solving systemic problems in a community, be it local or national, enables that community to thrive. When our communities thrive, our democracy – and our democratic culture – thrives.
There is a deep bench of leaders in this country who are tackling the problems confronting our communities. We shine a light on them as they navigate the landscape shaped by our imperfect history in pursuit of the more perfect union that was the goal of the nation’s founders.
Our Mission
To sift through the high volume and diffusion of information in the 24/7 news stream and cut through its partisan distractions, distortions, and deceptions to connect the dots and bring into focus problems such as climate change, access to healthcare, and the soaring national debt as well as the people who are striving to provide solutions. Years of failing to fix these problems – and a media ecosystem that has offered an echo chamber of blame without accountability and little hope – have eroded the public’s faith in our democratic institutions.
We think it’s time to change that. By spotlighting the ideas, knowledge, and aspirations needed for our communities to thrive, we can neutralize partisanship and build a stronger democracy.
Our Vision
To build and sustain a culture in which solving systemic problems for the public good – with proactive support from both business and government – is the norm rather than the exception. Narratives that reflect persistent, productive engagement and strategic priority setting – rather than opposition, delays, and division – are the building blocks of a democratic culture driven to problem-solve.
Our Name
We call this The American Leader because each of us who believes in American democracy is a leader in our own way. As engaged participants, it’s a bit like we are shareholders in our democracy. We all have different financial, time, and personal constraints that limit our ability to act and contribute to our nation’s sustenance, but we all are united by our aspiration to help our community and our country thrive.
The real challenge is not in identifying the problems, but in figuring out how to solve them. The leaders we profile are all willing to try something, no matter how complex or simple the idea and regardless of the risks of failure.
