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Citizen Test

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Do you know enough about America to pass a citizenship test? We test ourselves on this episode of Vetted Conversations.

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Welcome to Vetted Conversations, where we explore the foundations, workings, and challenges of American self-governance with events, quality dialogue, and through our podcast.

Our mission is to equip you with the knowledge and insights needed to become informed and engaged citizens, actively participating in safeguarding our liberties and freedoms.

TUNE IN

Recent episodes

1

How M'urica Are You? A civics challenge.

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2

The Citizen-Soldier: What are veterans' roles in a democracy?

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3

Vital to Our National Security: Understanding Civics with former Secretary of the Army Louis Caldera and Secretary of the Navy Sean O'Keefe

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5

Why democracy needs a free press with Thom Shanker and Kelly S. Kennedy

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6

Vet The Vote: How veterans teamed up with the NFL to tackle America's Election Poll Worker Crisis

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7

Challenges facing the 2024 elections, a conversation with Jennifer Morrell and Tina Barton

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meet YOUR Host

ELLEN GUSTAFSON

Ellen is a proud Navy Spouse and Navy and Coast Guard Granddaughter. She is a Co-Founder and the Executive Director of We the Veterans & Military Families, a non-partisan, non-profit organization that empowers the veteran and military family community to strengthen democracy. She is also the Co-Founder of the Military Family Building Coalition, the first non-profit supporting active duty military in building their families. She previously co-founded FEED, Food Tank and co-directed the Summit Institute. Ellen is the author of "We the Eaters: If We Change Dinner, We Can Change the World," has been a Fortune Most Powerful Women Entrepreneur and given four TEDxTalks. She lives with her husband and three young children in Virginia Beach, VA. Ellen is a member of the Board of We the Veterans Society for American Democracy and is the Executive Director and Board member of We the Veterans Foundation. As Executive Director, Ellen is the chief executive officer of We the Veterans, overseeing all general management and operations.
meet YOUR Host

JOE PLENZLER

Joe is a combat decorated Marine Corps veteran. He served 20 years on active duty as an infantry officer and as a public affairs officer. During his time in uniform, Joe planned and executed the largest media embed program in Marine Corps history during the invasion of Iraq, served as the senior U.S. military spokesperson in Indonesia during the international disaster relief mission in the wake of the Boxing Day tsunami, and served in the Pentagon as the spokesman, press secretary, and staff group director for the 34th, 35th, and 36th Commandants of the Marine Corps. Retiring in 2015, he has served as an EVP of marketing and membership, a national director of media relations, and a director of communication for large nationally recognized veteran service organizations. Today, he is a co-founder of Cassandra Helenus Partners - a leadership coaching and human communication firm.Joe is a member of the Boards of We the Veterans Society for American Democracy and We the Veterans Foundation. Joe also advises We the Veterans Foundation on public relations, media, and communications strategy.
WHAT OUR LISTENERS THINK

Quotes

Vet the Vote for All This is a very informative show. This podcast was recommended to me and I've enjoyed all the episodes so far. This show appeals to veterans and non veterans who want to learn more about how our elections process works and how they can get involved. This podcast brings together rational nonpartisan experts that are out there in the field doing the work to make sure we can maintain free and fair elections.

Anonymous

What a great podcast series for veterans and military family members who want to continue to serve their country and communities following active service. Military service members are used to putting their differences aside (especially political) whole on active duty to serve the greater mission of defending America, and can be a force for good in countering all the negative forces in our society today. It’s amazing what can be done when Americans work together to serve the common good.

Anonymous

A Must-Listen for Veterans Dedicated to Continued Service. Sick of today’s hyper-partisan media environment and want to do something positive about it? Tune in and join fellow members of the military community in taking action to strengthen our democratic Constitutional republic!

Ryan

Recommended by a friend, I have thoroughly enjoyed every episode. This show appeals not only to veterans but also to anyone interested in learning more about our election process and how to get involved. The podcast features rational, nonpartisan experts who are actively working to ensure we maintain free and fair elections. If you're looking to understand the intricacies of our electoral system and want to hear from those on the front lines, this podcast is a must-listen.

Claire

This series showcases inspiring stories of military members leveraging their unique skills and dedication to foster positive change in their communities. It's a refreshing break from today's divisive media, offering practical ways to contribute to the common good. If you're looking for meaningful content that encourages unity and action, this podcast is a must-listen.. Whether you're a veteran or simply a concerned citizen, this podcast offers valuable perspectives

Mathew

Vet the Vote for All This is a very informative show. This podcast was recommended to me and I've enjoyed all the episodes so far. This show appeals to veterans and non veterans who want to learn more about how our elections process works and how they can get involved. This podcast brings together rational nonpartisan experts that are out there in the field doing the work to make sure we can maintain free and fair elections.

Anonymous

What a great podcast series for veterans and military family members who want to continue to serve their country and communities following active service. Military service members are used to putting their differences aside (especially political) whole on active duty to serve the greater mission of defending America, and can be a force for good in countering all the negative forces in our society today. It’s amazing what can be done when Americans work together to serve the common good.

Anonymous

A Must-Listen for Veterans Dedicated to Continued Service. Sick of today’s hyper-partisan media environment and want to do something positive about it? Tune in and join fellow members of the military community in taking action to strengthen our democratic Constitutional republic!

Ryan

Recommended by a friend, I have thoroughly enjoyed every episode. This show appeals not only to veterans but also to anyone interested in learning more about our election process and how to get involved. The podcast features rational, nonpartisan experts who are actively working to ensure we maintain free and fair elections. If you're looking to understand the intricacies of our electoral system and want to hear from those on the front lines, this podcast is a must-listen.

Claire

This series showcases inspiring stories of military members leveraging their unique skills and dedication to foster positive change in their communities. It's a refreshing break from today's divisive media, offering practical ways to contribute to the common good. If you're looking for meaningful content that encourages unity and action, this podcast is a must-listen.. Whether you're a veteran or simply a concerned citizen, this podcast offers valuable perspectives

Mathew

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