The Ethical Life

The Ethical Life

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Kyte is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

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The Ethical Life
How can we benefit from healthy disagreement and debate?

Episode 191: In an era where arguments often erupt into shouting matches or retreat into silence, hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada explore how we can disagree better — and why it matters more than ever.

Drawing on insights from philosophy, journalism, childhood play and even sports fandom, the conversation unfolds into a thoughtful examination of how disagreement has shifted in our culture. The hosts argue that we’ve increasingly lost sight of what disagreement is meant to do: open our minds, sharpen our thinking and strengthen our democratic institutions. Instead, disagreement has become a contest to be won, often reduced to emotionally charged sound bites or dismissed entirely.

Kyte recounts a scene of children negotiating the rules of a flag football game, using it as a metaphor for the character-building that underpins both democracy and self-governance. He connects these playground moments to the deterioration of civic norms, highlighting our increasing acceptance of executive overreach and our mistrust of those enforcing rules, ranging from referees to elected officials.

The hosts also reflect on their experiences navigating disagreements at work, in relationships and even online. They differentiate between healthy disagreement and toxic confrontation, emphasizing the importance of humility, curiosity, and mutual respect. 

They caution, too, that constructive disagreement isn’t always appropriate. Silence or solidarity may be more ethical than critique in moments of grief, stress or unity. But avoiding all disagreement, they warn, risks eroding creativity, growth, and understanding — not just in politics or the workplace, but in our everyday lives.

Ultimately, this episode is a call to reclaim disagreement as a civic skill. It’s not just about speaking up — it’s about listening well, staying engaged and valuing the process of understanding even when consensus is elusive.

00:41:25
Apr 23, 2025 12:0 PM
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More Episodes

The Ethical Life
Are we avoiding important conversations about death?

Episode 190: Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss the complex and often uncomfortable topic of what constitutes a "good death" in modern society.

They discuss the challenges of medical technology's ability to prolong life, even when the quality of life has significantly diminished. Kyte emphasizes that death is inherently painful, both physically and emotionally, and argues that the focus should be on avoiding unnecessarily prolonged suffering.

The hosts explore various aspects of end-of-life care, highlighting the importance of advanced directives and open family conversations. Kyte strongly advocates for individuals to prepare comprehensive end-of-life documents, including appointing a durable power of attorney and clearly communicating personal wishes to family members.

A significant portion of the conversation addresses the controversial topic of medical aid in dying. While 10 states currently have laws allowing terminally ill patients to choose medical assistance in ending their lives, Kyte expresses reservations. He believes the medical profession's primary role should be to save lives and relieve suffering, not to end them actively.

The hosts also discuss the modern practice of "outsourcing" death care, contrasting current funeral practices with historical approaches where families were more directly involved in preparing and mourning their deceased loved ones. They argued that this distancing has contributed to society's discomfort with discussing death.

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:43:09
Apr 16, 2025 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
How does revenge shape our politics and relationships?

Episode 189: Hosts Scott Rada and Richard Kyte delve into the ethical tension between justice and revenge, revealing how these seemingly similar concepts diverge in motives, processes and outcomes.

To illustrate the contrast, Kyte draws on the symbol of Lady Justice: blindfolded, holding scales and a sword — a figure meant to represent impartiality and measured response. Revenge, by contrast, is fueled by emotion and often lacks balance or mercy.

The conversation spans everything from classic Westerns to contemporary political discourse. Kyte notes that revenge has long been a powerful storytelling device, particularly in films where personal retribution collides with the rise of law and order. But the desire to get even, he warns, can also corrode trust in real-world institutions.

That concern is especially visible in modern politics. Kyte points to President Donald Trump, who has made retribution a recurring theme — both on the campaign trail and in office. Using political power to settle personal scores, Kyte argues, undermines democratic norms and risks turning governance into a vendetta.

Later, the episode turns toward everyday life. From workplace slights to social media feuds, revenge often masquerades as justice. But as one district attorney told Rada, victims of identical crimes may respond in vastly different ways — some seeking harsh punishment, others showing surprising compassion.

Kyte cautions that vengeance rarely delivers what it promises. According to philosopher Simone Weil, Kyte said that imagined evil can seem thrilling, but real evil is often dull, painful, and empty. Instead of ruminating about harm, he urges listeners to cultivate habits of empathy, forgiveness, and moral clarity.

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:43:35
Apr 9, 2025 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
How can parents balance career guidance without adding pressure?

Episode 188: Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss how parents influence their children's understanding of work and career choices, highlighting the delicate balance between guiding and pressuring young people toward professional paths.

Drawing from personal experiences, the hosts emphasize the importance of exposing children to diverse career opportunities without forcing predetermined trajectories.

Kyte shares a pivotal childhood memory of his mother taking him to a hospital lab, quickly dispelling his romanticized notions of scientific work. This anecdote underscores a key point: children benefit from realistic, first-hand experiences of different professions.

The conversation reveals significant shifts in youth employment. Where 60% of high school students worked in 1978, today only about 35% hold jobs. This decline concerns experts who believe early work experiences are crucial for developing responsibility and understanding workplace dynamics.

Family businesses emerge as a unique lens for career exposure. The hosts discuss how children of small business owners often gain intimate knowledge of entrepreneurship, though they caution against automatically expecting children to inherit family enterprises.

The podcast also addresses socioeconomic factors, acknowledging that teenage employment is an economic necessity for some families rather than a developmental opportunity.

Links to stories discussed during the podcast

Some see work as a calling, others say it’s just a job, University of Michigan

How your work ethic influences your kids, Emily Rivas, Today's Parent

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:46:18
Apr 2, 2025 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
Why is empathy a taboo term in some conservative circles?

Episode 187: Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss the emerging conservative critiques that frame empathy as a potential moral liability, offering a nuanced perspective on human compassion’s psychological and ethical dimensions.

Kyte explained that some Christian commentators, including figures like Allie Beth Stuckey and Joe Rigney, have begun characterizing empathy as a potentially dangerous emotional response that can lead to misguided actions.

"Empathy is a psychological ability to feel what another person is experiencing," Kyte said. "It's different from compassion, which involves taking practical action to help others." He emphasized that while empathy provides an important emotional foundation for understanding human suffering, it must be balanced with practical wisdom.

The discussion highlighted recent controversies, including Elon Musk's approach to workforce reductions, which Kyte described as demonstrating a "callous disregard" for employees' experiences. The conversation also touched on broader social issues like homelessness, where simplistic solutions often fail to address complex systemic challenges.

Kyte argued that responsible empathy requires careful consideration of legitimate needs and potential consequences. "You can't immediately go from feeling someone's pain to implementing a solution without understanding the broader context," he explained.

Drawing from New York Times columnist David French's analysis, the podcast suggested that some conservative religious movements are increasingly prioritizing political dominance over compassionate understanding. Kyte warned that this approach could ultimately backfire by creating unnecessary cultural divisions.

The podcast concluded with an ethical dilemma exploring how to respond to a potentially homeless individual using gym facilities, with Kyte emphasizing that behavior, not appearance, should guide compassionate responses.

"The main question is whether the person is causing any harm," Kyte said. "If they're not disrupting others and are a paying member, there's no reason to intervene."

00:39:04
Mar 26, 2025 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
How can we find the balance in life between pleasure and meaning?

Episode 186: Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss the delicate balance between pleasure-seeking and meaning-making in our fast-paced, technology-driven world.

"Are we chasing quick pleasure at the cost of deeper meaning?" Rada asks at the start of the discussion. Kyte explains that these two orientations toward life often exist on a continuum — pleasure-seeking is passive and short-term, while meaning-making is active and long-term.

The hosts note that society seems to have tilted heavily toward the pleasure-seeking side in recent decades, fueled by advances in technology and brain science that allow companies to engineer highly addictive digital experiences and products. From social media and online gaming to streaming television and convenient but unhealthy food, these stimuli provide instant gratification that can come at the expense of more meaningful pursuits.

"Pleasure-seeking is always shorter term because it is immediate gratification, while meaning-making is more long-term and goal-oriented," Kyte says. He worries this shift has led people to prioritize controlled, predictable digital interactions over the unpredictability of real-life relationships and activities.

The hosts acknowledge the personal responsibility people have in finding a healthier balance. They suggest taking up hobbies, joining community groups and setting aside time for reading — activities that restore energy rather than deplete it. However, they also believe there is a role for public policy, especially when it comes to protecting children.

00:42:05
Mar 19, 2025 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
What draws people to spirituality over organized religion?

Episode 185: Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss a paradox in America — that even as formal religious participation declines, belief in the supernatural remains remarkably strong.

According to data from the Pew Research Center, 86% of Americans believe in the existence of a soul or spirit, 83% believe in God or a universal spirit and 70% believe in an afterlife. These findings suggest that while fewer people identify with organized religion, the human need for spiritual and supernatural explanations persists.

"It seems to go deep in human nature," Kyte said. "Human beings want answers to why questions like, 'Why am I here? What's the purpose of my life?'"

Kyte explained that while science has provided explanations for many of the "how" questions, religion continues to play a role in addressing the deeper "why" questions that science cannot fully answer. This desire for meaning and purpose beyond the physical world appears to be a fundamental part of the human experience.

The discussion also explored the role of religion in providing community, support and a sense of purpose, particularly during difficult times. Kyte emphasized the importance of religious practices and rituals in helping individuals develop the habits and disciplines necessary for a "meaningful life."

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:47:09
Mar 12, 2025 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
Does temperance hold the key to responsible governance?

Episode 184: Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss the concept of temperance and its waning influence in today's society.

Historically considered one of the four cardinal virtues — along with wisdom, courage and justice — temperance and its connection to personal restraint and moderation have become increasingly rare in both individual and governmental decision-making.

Kyte argues that our collective lack of self-restraint has contributed to many of the challenges facing modern society. He draws a parallel between the rise of a "disposable culture" and the way we govern, noting that the prevalence of nondurable goods and a focus on short-term gratification mirror the fiscal irresponsibility seen in growing personal and national debt.

The conversation then turns to the implications of this lack of temperance, both in the private sector and in government. The hosts examine the example of Elon Musk's recent efforts to slash government programs, questioning whether this approach represents a responsible use of power or a reckless disregard for the proper channels of governance.

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:43:30
Mar 5, 2025 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
Do protests, boycotts and social media outrage actually work?

Episode 183: Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss the sense of urgency and panic many Americans are feeling about the country's direction under the Trump administration.

Kyte emphasizes the importance of getting involved at the local level, such as following city council and school board elections, rather than just focusing on national politics.

The conversation then turns to economic boycotts, with Rada noting that some people are choosing not to patronize companies they believe are supporting policies they disagree with. The hosts also discuss traditional protests, particularly the contrast between the recent campus activism around the Israel-Gaza conflict and the relative lack of large-scale protests against the new administration's policies. Kyte suggests that while such protests may feel personally satisfying, they are often counterproductive in actually changing minds.

The conversation then explores the role of social media in political discourse, with Rada noting the tendency for people to vent their frustrations in echo chambers that reinforce their views. Kyte emphasizes the importance of honest, nuanced conversations over emotional venting, arguing that the latter is unlikely to persuade those with differing opinions.

The episode also touches on the concept of "tone policing," where people are accused of dismissing others' anger based on how it is expressed. Kyte pushes back against this idea, arguing that respectful disagreement is important for healthy discourse.

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:43:28
Feb 26, 2025 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
Does greater wealth lead to increased happiness?

Episode 182: The conversation between hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada begins by examining a recent New York Times article that explored dozens of metrics that were used to measure societal well-being in the United States.

The study found that while the United States has experienced remarkable economic growth and prosperity since the 1990s, measures of happiness and overall well-being have not kept pace.

"There was little disagreement about that," Rada said. "At the same time, they looked at things like trying to measure people's happiness and things like addiction and things like long longevity, and all of these things were either not growing at the same rate as they were in the other wealthy countries in the world or were getting worse."

Kyte attributed this disconnect to the United States' highly materialistic culture, noting that countries such as Japan experienced similar declines in well-being as they became more prosperous and focused on material goods. In contrast, the island of Okinawa, which maintained a focus on tradition, community and relationships, saw much higher levels of happiness.

The discussion also explored the role of income inequality, with the U.S. ranking among the highest in the world for income disparity. Kyte explained that this can create stress and a sense of unfairness, even among those who are relatively well-off.

The conversation delved into the limits of how much money can truly contribute to happiness, with Kyte explaining that once basic needs are met, additional wealth does not necessarily lead to greater fulfillment. Instead, he emphasized the importance of cultivating meaningful relationships and intrinsic sources of joy.

Links to stories discussed during the podcast

Why Americans older than 60 are so happy, by Emily Peck, Axios

Ted Talk: Why monkeys (and humans) are wired for fairness, by Sarah Brosnan

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:45:44
Feb 19, 2025 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
How can you reclaim focus in a digital world?

Episode 181: Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada explore the growing challenge of maintaining focus and attention in our increasingly digital world.

To combat these distractions, Kyte suggests three key strategies: cultivating face-to-face relationships, spending time in silence and engaging in creative activities. He emphasizes the importance of disconnecting from phones during social gatherings to fully engage with others, as well as the value of quiet reflection to develop deep focus.

The discussion also explores the concept of depth versus breadth of experience.

Kyte explains that while breadth involves a wide variety of activities, depth requires focusing on a single thing in greater detail. The hosts agree that deeply focusing on one task can lead to a greater sense of accomplishment compared to multitasking, which the research shows is detrimental to productivity and focus.

Links to stories discussed during the podcast

Attention spans are declining. Here's how to reverse the trend, by Richard Kyte

The real stakes of the war for your attention, by Sean Illing, Vox

Chris Hayes' 'Sirens' Call' is a thorough look at the fight for attention in modern age, by Andrew DeMillo, The Associated Press

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:46:43
Feb 12, 2025 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
Does confronting mortality make our lives more meaningful?

Episode 179: Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss how our awareness of mortality shapes the way we live.

Kyte begins by discussing how ancient philosophers, particularly the Stoics, believed we should keep death constantly in mind. This, they argued, helps us avoid self-deception about our mortality and the tendency to become overly attached to material possessions and markers of success.

Later, the hosts discuss how major religions have grappled with the question of what happens after death. While some offer detailed explanations, Kyte notes that not all religions provide clear answers. He suggests the emphasis in Christianity, for example, is more on how to live well rather than specifics about the afterlife.

Rada and Kyte share their personal reflections on mortality. Rada admits he doesn't think about it much, while Kyte says he ponders it daily, not in a morbid way, but to remind himself to use his finite time wisely. They discuss how people near the end of life often shift their priorities to relationships, forgiveness and small joys.

A key theme that emerges is the importance of storytelling and self-reflection in giving meaning to our lives. Rada observes that unlike animals, humans have a unique ability to narrate our experiences and define our identities through internal conversations. Kyte emphasizes how this helps us understand our place in time and our connections to others.

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:41:46
Jan 29, 2025 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
Can distinctive cultural practices survive in a flattened world?

Episode 177: Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada explore the paradox of valuing diversity while facing the erosion of cultural distinctiveness. 

"There's a deep incompatibility between two different conceptions of diversity," Kyte said. "Individual diversity requires inclusivity, but group diversity necessitates exclusivity to preserve shared practices and beliefs." 

The podcast highlights the alarming statistic that an estimated half of the world's 7,000 languages may disappear within a generation, taking with them the rich cultural knowledge embedded in these tongues. 

Rada inquires about the potential benefits and drawbacks of a common global language, highlighting that while it could enhance convenience, it could also result in a world that lacks cultural diversity. 

The hosts also discuss the impact of globalization and capitalism on traditional practices, such as the evolution of ethnic restaurants in the United States. As these establishments become more mainstream, they often lose their authentic cultural roots, replaced by standardized menus and business models. 

The hosts emphasize the need for a balanced approach, one that preserves communities with distinctive cultural characteristics while also promoting inclusivity. 

Links to stories discussed during the podcast

Last of their kind: What is lost when cultures die? by Wade Davis, Scientific America

Seven unique practices in the world that are dying out: See them before they are gone forever, by Ben Groundwater, The Sydney Morning Herald

Before it disappears: recording endangered practices, skills and knowledge, by Nik Petek-Sargeant, The British Museum

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:43:54
Jan 15, 2025 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
Does settling down or seeking adventure lead to a more fulfilled life?

Episode 176: Is life richer when you settle in one place and grow deep roots, or when you prioritize exploration through travel and seek constant adventure? This age-old question is the focus of the latest episode of "The Ethical Life" podcast.

Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss how advances in technology and remote work options have made it easier for people to choose how they want to live. Kyte said that the desire for freedom often draws people to a more nomadic lifestyle, but warned that the experience can be deceptive, lacking the sense of community and obligation that provides meaning.

The hosts explored the benefits of travel, such as reduced stress and increased creativity, but also acknowledged the tendency for people to get stuck in routines and forget to explore their own communities. They emphasized the importance of intentionally seeking out new experiences, even close to home.

The discussion also touched on the growing number of "full-time traveler residents" in states like South Dakota, as well as the emotional appeals and potential pitfalls of a nomadic life.

Kyte shared the story of a friend who initially enjoyed the RV lifestyle but later decided to settle down, craving a stronger sense of community and connection.

Links to stories discussed during the podcast

Nomadic adventures or a rooted life? The joys and limits of wandering, by Richard Kyte

On living an exciting life, by Nick Costello

Becoming a resident of South Dakota is easy. Some say too easy, by Jack Dura, The Associated Press

Slate Political Gabfest, 2024 conundrums edition

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:37:48
Jan 8, 2025 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
What's the secret to sticking to your goals in the new year?

Episode 175: As the calendar turns to a new year, millions of people set out to make positive changes in their lives through New Year's resolutions. However, the success rate for these resolutions is notoriously low. Hosts Scott Rada and Rick Kyte explore the complexities and challenges of setting and achieving New Year's goals.

The hosts begin by examining why we are so drawn to making resolutions, even though many of them fail. Kyte suggests the timing plays a role, as the excess of the holiday season leads people to want to cut back in areas like spending and weight.

But Rada wonders if the timing of New Year's resolutions, at the height of winter in many parts of the country, makes them more difficult to stick to. He proposes that shifting the new year to about April 1 could be more conducive to resolutions focused on exercise, healthy eating and spending time with loved ones.

The hosts also discuss the challenge of balancing multiple resolutions, with Kyte emphasizing the importance of changing daily routines incrementally to support various goals. However, they acknowledge the conflict between our aspirations and our natural impulses, shaped by evolution to seek out calorie-dense foods and avoid physical exertion.

Rada and Kyte stress the need to find ways to make healthy activities enjoyable, such as incorporating social elements. They also highlight the value of accountability, whether through public declarations of goals or relying on peer pressure from friends.

Links to stories discussed during the podcast

New Year’s resolutions: Who makes them and why? by Shanay Gracia, Pew Research Center

The psychology behind why new year’s resolutions fail, by Cynthia Vinney, Verywell Mind

How to achieve more with the right goals, by Jason Feifer, One Thing Better

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:48:05
Jan 1, 2025 5:0 AM
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The Ethical Life
How can we restore a sense of public order in our cities?

Episode 172: Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss the ethical considerations around public disorder in cities, focusing on the growing sense that standards of conduct have slipped in many urban areas.

Kyte introduces the concept of "moral ecology," drawing a parallel to environmental ecology. He argues that a sense of security and predictability in public spaces is a vital component of a healthy moral ecology.

Rada notes that while serious crimes have declined, persistent issues like open drug use, mental illness, homelessness and lower-level offenses contribute to a pervasive feeling of unease among the public.

The hosts say that the fraying of social connections and reduced face-to-face interactions in public spaces may be a root cause of the discomfort many people feel.

Kyte emphasizes the need for more public infrastructure, such as accessible bathrooms, to address the dignity and basic needs of those experiencing homelessness, and the hosts agree that these systemic problems contribute to a broader cynicism about the ability of public institutions to effectively address community issues.

The hosts conclude by suggesting that increasing participation in local government, integrating civil service into school curricula and restoring more autonomy to municipalities could help develop localized solutions to public disorder challenges.

Links to stories discussed during the podcast

Liberalism and public order, by Matthew Yglesias, Slow Boring

The Hidden Politics of Disorder, Ezra Klein, The New York Times

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:38:51
Dec 11, 2024 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
What role should religion play in our public schools?

Episode 171: Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss the many proposals to integrate religious teachings and symbols into public school curricula and the debates over the role of faith in education.

In Texas, the state board of education recently approved an optional "Bible Literacy" curriculum that provides financial incentives for districts to adopt Bible-based lessons. Meanwhile, a federal court temporarily blocked a Louisiana law that mandates the display of the Ten Commandments in every classroom.

These initiatives, largely driven by Republican-led state governments, raise ethical questions about fairness and inclusion, Kyte said.

"Religion is really bound up in defining what a culture is," Kyte explains. "You can't separate religion and culture, so trying to exclude it from public institutions is challenging."

Rada raises questions about the true intent behind these curriculum changes. He questions whether the focus is on conveying the Sermon on the Mount's message of caring for the less fortunate or simply on displaying more punitive biblical edicts.

Kyte acknowledges the delicate balance, noting the importance of teaching religious literacy without indoctrination. He suggests integrating faith-based concepts into subjects like history, literature and political science, rather than mandating standalone Bible courses.

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:40:06
Dec 4, 2024 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
What motivates us to give during the holiday season?

Episode 170: As the holiday season approaches, many are feeling the pull to give back to their communities. But what truly motivates us to be generous, and does the impact of our donations matter more than our reasons for giving?

Hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss the science behind the joy of giving, exploring research that shows donating time or money can boost mood and health.

"Much of philanthropy is motivated by the ways in which we feel good from helping others out,” Kyte said.

The hosts also talked about the balance between financial contributions and volunteering, noting that both forms of giving play important roles.

Later, the conversation shifts to the concept of "Effective Altruism," which prioritizes high-impact global donations over local community support. Kyte argued this view overlooks the vital role of strong social capital and healthy local communities in enabling effective worldwide aid efforts.

"You don't want civil society to fall apart," Kyte said. "You always have to pay attention to what the conditions are of the local community."

The podcast also explores the choice between public and anonymous donations, with Kyte noting that visible giving can inspire others, while anonymity allows donors to avoid unwanted attention.

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:43:43
Nov 27, 2024 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
Do political discussions have a place at Thanksgiving table?

Episode 169: As families prepare to gather for Thanksgiving, hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada offer advice about how to navigate potentially uncomfortable political discussions.

Kyte emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries on attitudes, not topics. He encourages families to approach discussions with a charitable mindset, seeking to understand differing perspectives rather than score political points.

The hosts discussed a recent Huff Post column in which the writer says she has decided to cancel Thanksgiving and Christmas with her family because of how they voted.

The hosts agree that family members have the responsibility to model positive behavior, especially for children, and to show that it’s possible to have civil conversations about important issues. They also stress the value of being informed about political matters at all levels of government, not just the national stage.

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:44:07
Nov 20, 2024 12:0 PM
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The Ethical Life
What's the best way to combat rudeness?

Episode 167: In a world that often feels increasingly rude, hosts Richard Kyte and Scott Rada discuss the challenge of combating incivility in our everyday lives.

The rise in rudeness can be largely attributed to heightened stress and anxiety levels worldwide. "When people are stressed, they are not on their best behavior," Kyte said. "They're less patient with others and more prone to reacting impulsively."

This dynamic can play out in a variety of settings, from the workplace to public spaces such as retail stores and on the road. But Kyte emphasizes that not all rude behavior is equal. He distinguishes between occasional lapses in civility, which may stem from neglect or preoccupation, and chronic, intentional rudeness that often comes from a place of dislike for others.

The hosts also delve into the contagious nature of both rudeness and kindness, underscoring the responsibility we all have in shaping the social environments we inhabit. By supporting customer service workers, reaching out to loved ones, and being open to positive interactions with strangers, individuals can help foster more considerate behavior.

Read more

Rudeness may be contagious, but kindness is communicable, by Richard Kyte

How to deal with rude people at work (10 effective steps), Indeed

New research shows that workplace rudeness is 'contagious,' by Megan Border, Anderson School of Management

Coping With The Rise Of Incivility, by Joyce Russell, Forbes

The increase in road rage, The Washington Post

About the hosts

Scott Rada is a digital strategist with Lee Enterprises, and Richard Kyte is the director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He is also the author of "Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way)."

00:42:52
Nov 6, 2024 12:0 PM
Clean