United in What Matters: Why America Needs Shared Values Again | Anna Matson

In this episode of Restitch America, host Alma Ohene-Opare talks with Anna Matson about the themes of Alma’s essay “United in What Matters.” Together they explore how Americans can reclaim shared ground by focusing on core values — dignity, faith, family, and civic responsibility — instead of letting minor doctrinal or political differences drive us apart.

Anna and Alma discuss how tribalism and purity tests fracture communities, why we too often define each other by disagreement rather than common convictions, and practical ways to rebuild trust across divides. They emphasize that unity does not require uniformity: instead, it asks us to locate the deep moral terrain we already share and act from it.

The conversation also pauses to reflect on the recent Grand Blanc, Michigan attack on an LDS church — a tragic reminder of how quickly social bonds can be shattered and why compassionate solidarity matters now more than ever. Alma and Anna call listeners to mourn together, resist moral distancing, and recommit to protecting the sacred spaces and values that bind communities.

If you’re craving honest dialogue, value-driven conversation, and a hopeful roadmap for rebuilding trust in America, this episode is for you.

Watch now on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts.
Let’s start restitching the nation — one conversation at a time.

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Website: www.willfulpositivity.com

Connect with our guest Anna!

Website: www.annamatson.com

X, IG, TikTok: @annarmatson