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S3, Episode 9: An Interview with Gonzalo Schwarz and Clay Routledge

Written by Benjamin Hannemann | Oct 7, 2025 11:18:22 AM

 

An Interview with Gonzalo Schwarz and Clay Routledge, Archbridge Institute

Despite prevailing messages to the contrary, recent research reveals a surprising finding: nearly seven in ten Americans say they either believe they'll achieve the American Dream or already have.

Yet a deeper question remains: What does it actually take for people to flourish?

Our guests on this episode of Voices of Freedom have dedicated their careers to answering this question by building a bridge between the truths revealed by research and the narratives that drive people and society. Gonzalo Schwarz and Clay Routledge of the Archbridge Institute share insights from their work building a "human flourishing movement" that goes beyond traditional economic measures to understand what truly enables people to live better, fuller lives.

Together, they explain why most Americans remain optimistic about their futures—despite pessimistic narratives we often hear.

Topics Discussed on this Episode:

  • How growing up in multiple countries shaped Gonzalo's understanding of institutions and opportunity
  • Why Clay transitioned from academia to policy work and the connection between psychology and public policy
  • How Archbridge defines "human flourishing" as a better framework than traditional economic measures
  • Why Archbridge regards "human flourishing" as a better framework than traditional economic measures
  • The "crisis of meaning" affecting young people and its impact on well-being and success
  • Why young Americans are more pessimistic about the American Dream and how to encourage optimism
  • Why most Americans remain optimistic about achieving the American Dream
  • Breakthrough insights and policy solutions that could make a difference in people's lives