In this episode of Campfire Chat, we dig into Abundance by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson, a bold call to rethink how we approach public policy, innovation, and problem-solving. Framed around a powerful question—what if we planned for abundance instead of assuming scarcity?—this conversation explores the real potential of government-driven innovation, from Operation Warp Speed to climate tech, housing reform, and scientific research.

We discuss the book’s techno-optimism, the role of crisis in mobilizing action, and why some of our biggest wins—like the COVID-19 vaccine rollout—became political orphans. We also wrestle with the deeper tradeoffs, like red tape and risk aversion, that slow down real progress. Along the way, we reflect on what this framework could mean for universities, health departments, and anyone leading through complexity. Spoiler: it starts with being willing to change.

Want to read along for next time? We’ll be tackling Moral Ambition by Rutger Bregman in the next Campfire Chat. Grab a copy and join the conversation.

You’ve heard the phrase. You’ve probably said it: “Let’s not reinvent the wheel.” But what if that mindset is keeping us from real solutions?

In this episode, Wes and David take a hard look at the cliché—and argue that relying too heavily on other people’s answers can actually short-circuit innovation, especially in rural communities and complex systems.

They unpack:

• Why “not reinventing the wheel” can be lazy leadership
• The dangers of assuming sameness in community solutions
• How starting from scratch invites creativity, ownership, and context
• Why borrowing policies and plans can erode public trust
• The power of starting with a blank sheet and local wisdom

This one’s for the leaders who are tired of copy-paste planning and want to build strategies that actually fit their communities.

In this first installment of a recurring series - Campfire Chat, we gather around the fire to explore Jonathan Haidt’s The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion. Through conversation that weaves together moral psychology, public health, theology, and community engagement, we reflect on what Haidt’s work can teach us about polarization and the limits of reason.

We discuss how moral intuitions often drive human behavior more than evidence or logic—and what that means for professionals working in divided communities. Drawing on real-world examples from public health practice and education, we consider how relationships, trust, and shared values might offer a better path toward understanding and collaboration. This episode also touches on broader questions of relevance facing both the church and higher education, and the importance of reimagining connection in a fragmented world.