"The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way." - Marcus Aurelius
TL;DR - Key Takeaways
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Personal Context: My 33-Year Canadian Experience {#personal-context}
Before diving into this analysis, let me share why this matters to me personally.
I am American through and through, but I have been working in and out of Canada since the early 1980s. In the 1990s, my wife and I lived in North Bay, Ontario for four years, where I grew a global-scale business with Canadian headquarters. Some of our closest friends in the world are here in North Bay—relationships that have endured for 33 years as we spend most summers in Canada.
Why This Essay Matters: My wife and I just spent three weeks in North Bay, and it's clear that while our friendships remain strong, many friends are feeling genuinely hurt by how President Trump has treated Canada and Canadians. I completely agree with their sense of being disrespected.
These past weeks, I've been navigating these issues with deep empathy and curiosity—seeking first to understand what my friends are feeling. This essay stems from the total respect and love I feel for Canada and represents my attempt to work through these complex dynamics with the people I care about most.
The Heroic Framework: Building Toward Global Flourishing {#heroic-framework}
My perspective is shaped by deep involvement in the heroic movement. I am a large investor in Heroic Public Benefit Corporation and founded Heroic Arizona as the first of what will become many global/local communities working toward the ambitious goal that 51% of humanity will be flourishing by 2051.
The Stoic Foundation
This movement is grounded in ancient Stoic philosophy and modern positive psychology, teaching that obstacles, when properly approached, become the pathway to growth and strength.
The heroic philosophy teaches us that growth requires facing difficult truths with courage and wisdom. Sometimes the most loving thing we can do—whether as individuals, friends, or nations—is to have the difficult conversations that comfortable relationships often avoid.
The Scale of American Global Subsidization {#subsidization}
Here's the uncomfortable truth: American taxpayers effectively subsidize global prosperity across multiple critical sectors. The numbers are staggering.
Pharmaceutical Innovation: Funding the World's Medicine
The Reality:
The Dynamic: American consumers effectively subsidize global drug development through higher prices, allowing other countries to access these life-saving innovations at substantially lower costs.
European R&D spending growth has been outpaced by both the US (5.5% annually) and China (20.7% annually), creating a growing innovation gap that further concentrates the burden on American investment.
Maritime Security: Protecting $14 Trillion in Global Trade
The Numbers:
The Reality: The US Navy pays a steep price keeping aircraft carriers with escorts on station to protect critical chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz, benefiting the entire global economy while American taxpayers bear the costs.
Maritime security operations include counterpiracy, drug interdiction, environmental protection, and law enforcement measures that benefit every trading nation worldwide.
Technology Infrastructure: The Foundation of Modern Life
What America Provides for Free:
The Pattern: These technologies were developed through massive US government investment, yet the world benefits while bearing none of the development costs.
✈️ Aerospace and Defense: Dual-Use Technology Development
2023 Numbers:
The aerospace industry benefits from massive US defense spending that develops technologies later used commercially worldwide.
China's Systematic Exploitation {#china-exploitation}
The global subsidization problem becomes exponentially worse when you factor in how China systematically exploits American-funded innovations.
Intellectual Property Theft: Trillions Stolen
The Scale:
The Method: This isn't opportunistic theft—it's a systematic, state-directed transfer of wealth from innovating companies to their competitors.
Forced Technology Transfer: Market Access as Leverage
How It Works:
The Result: American companies invest billions in R&D, only to have innovations appropriated by Chinese companies that then compete globally without bearing original development costs.
This targets advanced technologies like AI, biotechnology, and virtual reality—technologies with dual military and civilian applications.
️ International Organization Manipulation
The Problem:
The Warning: Without vigorous democratic response, Chinese, Russian, and other authoritarian influence in multilateral institutions will grow significantly.
Canada: A Case Study in Comfortable Dependency {#canada-case-study}
This brings me to the most delicate part of this analysis. Canada is among the world's strongest democracies and shares fundamental values with the United States. However, the relationship has developed asymmetries that mirror the broader global pattern.
️ Energy: The Perfect Example
The Current Reality:
The Opportunity: Current pressure is finally catalyzing the diversification and infrastructure development that should have happened decades ago.
The Alberta Parallel: Canada's Internal Imbalance
Here's an uncomfortable parallel my Ontario friends might recognize:
Alberta's Frustration with Ontario/Quebec mirrors Canada's relationship with the US:
Recent Alberta sentiment (actual polling quote): "Stop transferring money to Ottawa for Quebec and Ontario. We are a have not province since all our federal politicians are doing nothing for oil and gas."
The Pattern: Power concentration—whether in Ontario/Quebec within Canada, or the US globally—creates resentment among those who bear disproportionate costs while having limited voice in decisions.
Trump's Approach: Right Issues, Wrong Execution {#trump-approach}
This is the most challenging part of this analysis. I must be absolutely clear:
❌ What I Completely Reject
Trump's language and tone with Canada are unacceptable:
My Position: Canada has been America's steadfast partner through countless challenges. Canadians share our values, have fought alongside us, and consistently demonstrate commitment to democracy and human rights. They deserve respect, not public hectoring.
✅ The Uncomfortable Reality: Legitimate Underlying Issues
However—and this requires heroic honesty—many of Trump's underlying concerns about imbalances are legitimate:
The Parenting Analogy: When Tough Love Becomes Necessary
I've witnessed this dynamic with two close friends whose children went completely astray. After every gentle approach failed—encouragement, reasoning, incentives, counseling—these parents ultimately had to use the toughest form of tough love: refusing to let destructive behavior continue in their homes.
The children's reaction: Felt their parents were cruel, unreasonable, even bullying.
The result: Forced development of independence, responsibility, and adult life skills that gentler methods had failed to achieve.
The European Example: When Gentle Approaches Fail
What Happened:
Current Result: European nations are finally taking greater responsibility for their own security and trade relationships.
The Learning: Sometimes disrupting comfortable but unsustainable equilibriums forces the strategic thinking that should have developed decades ago.
The Canadian Response: Growth Through Challenge
From a heroic perspective—the Stoic principle that obstacles make us stronger—this pressure is producing positive results in Canada:
Infrastructure Development
The Fragility of Comfort
The uncomfortable truth: Canadians have become comfortable—perhaps too comfortable—with the existing US relationship.
Business Reality: Depending on a single customer is clearly suboptimal.
The Growth: Current pressure is catalyzing the diversification that should have happened years ago.
Heroic Insight: A truly strong and independent Canada should thrive with diversified markets, robust infrastructure, and the ability to contribute substantially to global systems from which it benefits.
Obstacles as Strength-Builders for Nations
This Stoic principle applies to nations and relationships between nations:
Current Pressure Will Make Countries Stronger:
The Heroic Vision: The 51% of humanity flourishing by 2051 depends on nations embracing challenges as opportunities for growth.
The Path to Stronger Partnership {#path-forward}
The Goal: Heroic Partnership Based on Mutual Strength
Not ending the relationship but evolving it into something far stronger and more sustainable.
This means:
Enhanced Partnership Opportunities
Where Canada Can Lead:
️ Addressing the Language Problem
The Heroic Approach would involve:
Future Leadership Lesson: Address necessary issues that previous administrations avoided, but do so with the respect that shared values and friendship require.
My Strong Belief: A Far Stronger Future Relationship
I have deep conviction that once this difficult recalibration period concludes, the USA-Canada relationship will be far stronger than ever before.
Why I'm Confident:
The Heroic Vision: Global Flourishing by 2051
The heroic movement's goal of 51% of humanity flourishing by 2051 depends on creating sustainable partnerships between democratic nations that can collectively address global challenges while resisting authoritarian exploitation.
This requires:
Conclusion: The Heroic Path Through Obstacles
The relationship between the United States and Canada stands at a crucial juncture. While I completely reject the harsh language and disrespectful tone that has characterized recent pressure for change, I must acknowledge that many underlying issues are legitimate and long-overdue for address.
The heroic approach: Face difficult truths with courage and wisdom, seeking solutions that strengthen all parties.
The obstacles currently facing Canada—pressure to diversify energy markets, develop independent infrastructure, and take greater global responsibility—will ultimately make the country stronger and more resilient.
For My Canadian Friends: I hope you understand this analysis comes from a place of deep love and respect, informed by decades of shared experience and unwavering belief in the strength of our friendship. The goal is not to diminish Canada or defend indefensible behavior, but to work together toward a future where both our nations can thrive as equal partners.
When this period of difficult but necessary adjustment concludes, I believe we will see a partnership between two strong, independent, democratic nations that is far more capable of promoting global flourishing than the comfortable but unbalanced arrangement of recent decades.
The heroic path is never the easy path, but it leads to genuine strength, sustainable relationships, and partnerships that can achieve the essential goal of global human flourishing. The obstacles we face today are not impediments—they are the very challenges that, properly navigated, will make that achievement possible.
What do you think?
Have you experienced similar dynamics in your relationships—personal or professional—where comfortable arrangements needed difficult recalibration? How do we balance loyalty to friends with honest assessment of challenging situations?
Share your thoughts below, and if this resonates, please share with others navigating similar complex relationships in our changing world.
Learn more about the heroic movement at heroic.us and connect with our Arizona community at HeroicAZ.us
"Want the full story?
This blog only scratches the surface of a much larger pattern of global subsidization that most people never see—dive into the comprehensive essay with detailed research, extensive statistics, and the complete case for why these uncomfortable truths about US-Canada relations actually point toward a far stronger partnership ahead.
I’m thrilled to share some exciting news from Heroic Arizona (heroicaz.us) about two transformative workshops we’re rolling out in partnership with Three Pillars Performance and led by Certified Heroic Workshop Instructors Bradley Lewis and Kelly Dean Yagelniski. If you’re ready to take your personal and professional growth to the next level, these workshops are designed to help you do just that, building on the incredible foundation of the Heroic Public Benefit Corporation’s Heroic Clarity and Antifragile Confidence Workshop.
The Foundation: Heroic Clarity and Antifragile Confidence
For those unfamiliar, the Heroic Clarity and Antifragile Confidence Workshop is a globally celebrated half-day experience that’s impacted thousands through the expertise of hundreds of certified instructors like Bradley and Kelly. This 3-to-4-hour session distills ancient wisdom, modern science, and practical tools from over 600 of the world’s best personal development books. It’s a proven process to optimize your Energy, Work, and Love, helping you become more energized, productive, and connected than ever before.
Participants walk away inspired, but many ask, “What’s next?” The depth of wisdom packed into this half-day workshop is profound, yet it often leaves attendees hungry for more time to fully integrate its life-changing insights. That’s where Bradley and Kelly come in, stepping up to address this need with an innovative solution.
The Next Step: Expanded Workshops for Lasting Impact
Recognizing the demand for deeper engagement, Bradley and Kelly have developed a comprehensive set of workshops that expand on the half-day experience. Ultimately, this will be a 4-day program, but it’s designed to be flexible, offering 1, 2, 3, or 4-day experiences tailored to specific groups like CEOs and their leadership teams, entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, educators, adults, and youth. These workshops dive deeper into the core principles of the original, giving participants the time and tools to fully embed this wisdom into their lives.
Here’s what you can expect from these workshops:
Two Exciting Opportunities to Engage
Heroic Arizona is proud to launch two new workshops to bring this transformative experience to our community:
Hear from Bradley and Take Action
Curious about what makes these workshops so special? I encourage you to visit the splash pages and click the links below to hear directly from Bradley and Kelly. Their passion and insights will give you a glimpse into the transformative power of these experiences. Whether you’re a CEO, entrepreneur, or nonprofit leader, these workshops are your chance to unlock your potential and lead with Areté.
Heroic AZ Workshops | Bradley Lewis on Purpose, Energy & Performance
HeroicAZ Workshops: Kelly Dean: Learn how leaders and teams benefit from Heroic Workshops in this video
Join Us on This Journey
I’m personally so excited about these workshops because they represent a bold step forward in helping Arizonans live their best lives. Bradley and Kelly’s vision, combined with Three Pillars’ expertise and Heroic Arizona’s mission, creates a powerful opportunity for growth. Don’t miss out—visit the Tucson or Phoenix splash pages to explore the details, sign up for an information session, or register for a workshop today. Let’s activate our best selves together!
Struggling with pain—physical, emotional, or otherwise? Discover how I found relief from chronic back pain through purposeful action and meditation. Learn 3 simple steps to transform any pain into a path to flourishing. Read my story and join Heroic Arizona’s mission at www.heroicaz.us! #PainRelief #Purpose #Flourish
Relieve Pain of All Kinds with These Three Simple Steps
As a 75-year-young member of the Heroic community, I’ve been navigating a challenging chapter of my life: chronic lower back pain. This pain, not caused by injury but by the natural process of aging, has been a significant disruption. Five weeks ago, I underwent major back surgery—a “double cage” procedure to immobilize affected spinal joints. The hope is that, after a six-month-plus recovery involving bone growth to stabilize the joints, the pain will significantly reduce or even disappear. Yet, post-surgery, I’m experiencing more continuous pain than before, though it feels different—a pain tied to healing, I hope. This journey, steeped in uncertainty, has led me to a profound awakening, one I want to share with you through the lens of Heroic’s mission and the wisdom of Phil Stutz, mentor to our founder, Brian Johnson.
Phil Stutz teaches that we are never exonerated from three things: pain, uncertainty, and hard work. For me, this resonates deeply as I confront not just physical pain but the broader spectrum of human pain we all endure. Beyond physical discomfort, we face emotional pain (grief, sadness), existential pain (questioning life’s meaning), social pain (rejection or isolation), psychological pain (shame or guilt), moral pain (witnessing injustice), spiritual pain (disconnection from higher purpose), and intellectual pain (grappling with uncertainty or complex ideas). These pains, like my chronic back pain, can feel fixed, eternal, and unending. But through my decade-long practice with Headspace, particularly a 30-day meditation series I’m on day 7 of, I’m learning to shift how my mind perceives pain—physical and otherwise.
This morning, during my daily meditation, I had an awakening: when I’m deeply engaged in activity—especially purposeful activity—my pain fades. Writing this blog post right now, I feel no pain. Curious, I wondered, how can that be? The Headspace series is teaching me that while chronic pain signals may persist (nerve signals traveling to the brain), how we process those signals is largely in our control. This insight applies not just to physical pain but to all forms of pain. Whether it’s the ache of loneliness, the weight of moral injury, or the disquiet of existential doubt, our minds can learn to reframe these experiences through purposeful action.
My chronic pain, while less severe than what others may endure, has been disruptive enough to reshape my daily life. Yet, as Stutz and Heroic wisdom suggest, I’m leaning into it. The surgery may or may not fully resolve my physical pain—life is uncertain, as Stutz reminds us. But I’m bringing tools like meditation to bear, exploring how to manage my pain rather than control it. This distinction feels important: management implies working with pain, not fighting it. Purposeful action—like writing this post, engaging with the Heroic community, or pursuing meaningful work—seems to quiet the pain, shifting my focus from suffering to creation.
This brings me to Heroic’s ancient wisdom about human flourishing, which I see as boiling down to three pillars: health (managed as best as circumstances allow), purposeful work, and meaningful relationships. I’m not yet certain if any action reduces my pain, but I’m convinced that purposeful action does. When I’m aligned with my purpose—whether through writing, connecting with others, or contributing to Heroic Arizona’s mission—the pain recedes, and I feel alive.
Some may hear Stutz’s quote about pain, uncertainty, and hard work and find it depressing. “If life is just pain and struggle, where’s the joy?” they ask. That’s the key to understanding flourishing. Joy and happiness emerge from leaning into the hard work, from embracing obstacles—whether physical pain, social rejection, or existential uncertainty—and transforming them into opportunities for growth. By doing the hard work to understand our pain, fostering meaningful relationships (which can sometimes bring their own pain), and pursuing purpose, we find fulfillment. My meditation practice, guided by Headspace, is helping me explore my pain, not eliminate it, but reframe it as a teacher.
To anyone experiencing pain of any kind—physical, emotional, existential, or otherwise—here are three key steps to modify, if not eliminate, the pain you feel:
Lean into the pain, uncertainty, and hard work. Through purpose, action, and community, we find joy. Join me, and let’s flourish together.
Are you ready to transform challenges into opportunities? Join us for the MAC6 Book Club Lunch and Learn on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 11:45 AM to 1:00 PM at MAC6 (in-person or virtually) as we explore The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday. This powerful book distills Stoic philosophy into practical wisdom for navigating life’s challenges, making it a perfect fit for the Heroic Arizona community, where Stoicism forms a cornerstone of the ancient wisdom championed by Heroic (heroic.us) and its Heroic Premium App.
Mark your calendars, as registration will open soon! This event, led by MAC6 Vice President Al Loveland, a lifelong practicing Stoic, promises to spark meaningful discussions and inspire you to live with resilience and purpose.
At Heroic Arizona (heroicaz.us), we believe in harnessing ancient wisdom to become our best selves. Stoicism, a core philosophy behind Heroic’s mission, teaches us to focus on what we can control, embrace adversity, and act with virtue. The Obstacle Is the Way brings these principles to life, offering actionable insights to turn obstacles into stepping stones. Whether you’re a Heroic Premium App user or new to Stoicism, this book club is a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and deepen your practice of living heroically.
Ryan Holiday’s The Obstacle Is the Way draws on the timeless teachings of Stoic philosophers like Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus. Here are three core ideas from the book that resonate deeply with Heroic’s mission:
Perception Is Everything Holiday emphasizes that obstacles are not inherently good or bad—it’s our perception that shapes their impact. By choosing to see challenges as opportunities, we can reframe setbacks as chances to grow. This aligns with Heroic’s call to master our mindset and focus on what’s within our control.
Action Over Inaction Stoicism isn’t about passive acceptance; it’s about disciplined action. Holiday encourages relentless persistence, breaking problems into manageable steps, and moving forward with courage. This mirrors the Heroic Premium App’s focus on small, consistent actions to build a virtuous life.
Embrace Adversity as a Teacher Obstacles aren’t roadblocks; they’re the path to strength and wisdom. Holiday shows how embracing adversity builds resilience and character, a principle at the heart of Heroic’s philosophy of thriving through challenges.
For a quick dive into these ideas, download the Philosophers Note on The Obstacle Is the Way—a concise 6-page summary perfect for preparing for the book club, especially if you’re short on time to read the full book. Download the Philosophers Note here (link to be provided).
Engage with Stoic Wisdom: Led by Al Loveland, a lifelong Stoic, this session will unpack how The Obstacle Is the Way applies to modern life and aligns with Heroic’s mission.
Connect with Community: Join fellow Heroic Arizona members and MAC6 community members to share insights and build meaningful connections.
Flexible Participation: Attend in person at MAC6 or join virtually from anywhere.
Inspiration for Your Heroic Journey: Discover practical tools to embody Stoic principles and live with greater purpose, both personally and professionally.
What: MAC6 Book Club Lunch and Learn discussing The Obstacle Is the Way
When: Wednesday, August 13, 2025, 11:45 AM–1:00 PM
Where: MAC6 (in-person) or virtual
Led by: Al Loveland, MAC6 Vice President and practicing Stoic
Registration: Opens soon—stay tuned for details!
Haven’t read the book yet? No problem! The Philosophers Note on The Obstacle Is the Way is a fantastic 6-page summary that captures the book’s essence. Download it from the link just above to prepare for a rich discussion. For those diving into the full book, you’ll find Holiday’s insights both accessible and profound, offering a modern lens on Stoic wisdom.
As partners with MAC6, Heroic Arizona invites you to join this book club to connect with Stoic principles that empower us to live heroically. The ideas in The Obstacle Is the Way echo the ancient wisdom woven into the Heroic Premium App, helping us overcome obstacles and become our best selves. Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect, and grow.
Mark your calendars for August 13, 2025, and prepare to turn obstacles into opportunities. We can’t wait to see you there!
Thank you HeroicAZ Member Dr. Mohamed Hilali for this blog...
Too often, debates about human rights, social policy, and economics get stuck in the same old binary: scarcity or abundance. Are we doomed to fight over a limited pie, or can we grow it so everyone gets a bigger slice? While this “two-dimensional” thinking is common, it misses a much deeper truth—a truth that nature, faith, and experience teach us every season.
The Corn Kernel Lesson: Nature’s Law of Multiplication
Consider the humble grain of corn. In a typical season, one kernel might yield a single stalk, with a modest harvest. But under the right conditions—nourished by rich soil, water, sunlight, and care—one seed can sprout into seven stalks, each with a hundred kernels. In just one generation, the original seed multiplies a hundredfold. In the next generation, the multiplication repeats, expanding exponentially. This is not just arithmetic growth, but geometric flourishing.
This lesson isn’t unique to corn. It is seen in fruit trees, ecosystems, and the cycles of life. It is even immortalized in scripture: “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a grain [of corn] which grows seven ears; in every ear there are a hundred grains...” (Qur’an 2:261)
From Nature to Society: The Power of Regeneration
What if we applied this natural, regenerative logic to our society? Instead of viewing resources, opportunity, and dignity as things to be divided or even simply “grown,” we could recognize their potential for multiplication—across generations and communities.
A Regenerative Approach to Human Rights
This three-dimensional, regenerative view urges us to move beyond the limits of zero-sum thinking. Yes, some resources are finite—but human potential, knowledge, creativity, and compassion are not. When we build systems and policies that empower people, nurture talents, and support each seed of potential, we create a virtuous cycle: flourishing that grows, multiplies, and compounds.
True flourishing, then, is not just a matter of what we have or even what we share—it’s about what we enable to multiply.
Policy Implications: Planting for the Future
Conclusion: Let Us Multiply Goodness
The challenge for leaders, educators, and communities is to adopt this regenerative mindset. Let us not be trapped by the fear of scarcity, nor lulled by simplistic dreams of abundance. Let us instead cultivate systems—economic, ethical, and spiritual—that turn each act of investment, generosity, and care into a harvest multiplied for generations to come.
Let us, like the grain of corn, become the start of flourishing beyond what we can count.
Heroic Arizona, we’re part of a broader movement rooted in the mission of Heroic Public Benefit Corporation: to see 51% of humanity flourishing by 2051. But what does "flourishing" truly mean? The Flourishing Scale provides a clear framework with eight key indicators:
At its core, flourishing boils down to being in the best health we can manage given our circumstances, engaging in purpose-filled work, and pursuing purposeful relationships and endeavors. Cultural considerations further enrich this definition. Especially in some lower-income demographics, relationships, family, or other forms of social engagement and meaning can lead people to flourish even in difficult economic conditions, offering resilience where resources are scarce.
The Foundation of Flourishing: Beyond Survival
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs reminds us that true flourishing may be out of reach for those in survival mode, struggling to secure food, clothing, and shelter. Abject poverty—marked by the absence of these basics—keeps individuals trapped, leaving little room to pursue education or participate in wealth generation. Our first task is to help lift people from this state, moving them up the chain toward stability. Yet, even as we address abject poverty, relative poverty emerges as a subtler challenge. In regions with abundant opportunity, individuals may have their basic needs met but feel unfulfilled when comparing themselves to others with more. This highlights that flourishing isn’t just about meeting a global baseline—it’s also about perception and context.
Cultural and Global Perspectives
Flourishing looks different worldwide. In collectivist cultures, contributing to community well-being might outweigh personal achievement, while individualistic societies may prioritize self-actualization. For those in lower socio-economic brackets, flourishing might mean stability and dignity, whereas in wealthier contexts, it could involve creative expression or legacy-building. As members of the Heroic movement, we must consider these diverse lenses, ensuring our 2051 goal embraces every human experience.
Happiness as a Journey, Not a Destination
Happiness, often tied to flourishing, isn’t a fixed endpoint. Life is fraught with pain, uncertainty, and hard work—there’s no easy path. Instead, it’s a journey bolstered by antifragile confidence, a resilience Heroic Arizona helps cultivate. This confidence allows us to build fulfilling lives amid adversity. Drawing from Martin Seligman’s work, flourishing transcends mere survival; it’s about thriving and contributing to something greater. From a Heroic perspective, the meaning of life lies in this pursuit—using our strengths to create value for ourselves and others, aligning with a purpose that echoes beyond our individual existence.
A Call to Action
To reach 51% flourishing by 2051, we must first address survival needs, then support education and economic participation to elevate individuals. Simultaneously, we must tackle relative poverty’s emotional toll, fostering gratitude and purpose even in abundance. Heroic Arizona stands ready to guide this journey, building antifragile communities that thrive through challenge and contribute to a greater whole. Join the conversation by commenting on this blog and participating in Heroic Arizona’s weekly roundtables and monthly meetings as we explore these and other topics. Visit heroicaz.us to learn more.
This 4th of July morning, as I celebrate the boundless opportunities of this great country, I’m filled with joy for the vibrancy of life and our freedom to inspire a flourishing world. Yet, amid the fireworks and festivities, I’m mindful of the debates in our political system—and across the globe—about fairness, equity, and what truly constitutes human rights. As I prepare to spend four weeks in North Bay, Ontario, with dear Canadian friends, I anticipate lively discussions on these topics. In Canada, perspectives on human rights sometimes differ from American views, occasionally sparking division. As an American deeply rooted in the mission of Heroic and Heroic Arizona, I carry these reflections to my friends abroad, hoping to bridge understanding through our shared goal of a thriving humanity.
As members of the heroic community, we share a bold vision: to foster a world where 51% of humanity is flourishing. But what does it mean to flourish, and how do human rights fit into this equation? To answer this, we must grapple with the definition of human rights and consider which rights are truly universal—and which might conflict with the very freedoms they aim to protect.
Defining Human Rights: The Foundation of Flourishing
Human rights are often described as universal entitlements inherent to all individuals, regardless of nationality, creed, or circumstance. They are not granted by governments but are instead recognized as intrinsic to our existence—whether you attribute them to a creator, a universal truth, or the nature of life itself. In the United States, the Declaration of Independence eloquently names three core rights: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These rights form a bedrock for human flourishing, as they empower individuals to live freely, own property, create value, and chase their unique version of joy—without impeding others from doing the same.
But the conversation around human rights often grows complex. Some argue that rights extend beyond these fundamentals to include things like universal healthcare, housing, or education. These propositions raise critical questions: Who guarantees these rights? And can a right truly be universal if its enforcement requires taking away someone else’s freedom?
The Role of Government: Guarantor, Not Grantor
In human society, governments are the primary entities tasked with guaranteeing human rights. They exist to protect our ability to exercise our freedoms while ensuring that one person’s rights don’t trample another’s. However, governments are unique in their authority to take away property (through taxes), time (through incarceration), or even life (in extreme cases). This immense power demands caution. If we vest governments with the responsibility to enforce certain rights, we must carefully consider the cost—both to individual liberty and to the balance of a flourishing society.
The Nature of Rights: Fundamental vs. Entitlement-Based
Not all proposed human rights are created equal. Let’s break them down into two categories:
The Universal Healthcare Debate: Right or Privilege?
Take universal healthcare as an example. Many argue it’s a human right, asserting that access to medical care is essential for a dignified life. On the surface, this seems compelling—health is undeniably foundational to flourishing. But guaranteeing universal healthcare requires significant resources, typically funded by taxing citizens. If I’m compelled to pay for someone else’s healthcare, my property (money) is taken, potentially limiting my own pursuit of happiness. If I refuse, the government’s authority to enforce payment could encroach on my liberty. This tension suggests that universal healthcare, while a worthy policy debate, may not qualify as a fundamental human right in the same way life or liberty does.
This isn’t to say society shouldn’t provide healthcare or other benefits. A compassionate, flourishing community might choose to prioritize such programs. But labeling them as human rights risks muddling the concept of rights altogether. True human rights should stand alone, requiring no one’s sacrifice to exist.
Wealth Distribution: A Barrier or a Boost to Flourishing?
Another critical debate tied to flourishing is wealth distribution or redistribution. Some argue that to achieve a world where the majority of humanity thrives, we must redistribute wealth to ensure equitable access to resources, regardless of what we define as human rights. While the intention is noble, this approach raises serious concerns about both fairness and long-term societal health.
First, let’s acknowledge the progress we’ve made. Data shows the world is getting better: over the past 20, 50, 100, and 200 years, humanity has seen unprecedented reductions in abject poverty and remarkable increases in access to education, healthcare, housing, and opportunity. Today, more people are rising into the middle class than ever before, and the environment is benefiting from technological advancements. This progress isn’t perfect—challenges remain—but it’s undeniable that free enterprise capitalism and democracy have been the engines of this transformation. These systems reward innovation, foster opportunity, and empower individuals to create value. Rather than abandoning them, we should stay the course, refining and improving as we go, because humanity’s trajectory is one of continuous improvement.
Second, the call for wealth redistribution often hinges on taking from some to give to others. This approach is problematic for two reasons. One, it violates the fundamental human rights of those whose property is taken. Forcibly redistributing wealth undermines the right to liberty and the pursuit of happiness by seizing what someone has earned through their efforts. Two, even if you set aside the rights argument, giving without requiring effort fosters dependency. Dependency erodes self-worth, which can spiral into destructive behaviors like substance abuse, family breakdown, and societal degradation. While giving may feel compassionate in the moment, history shows that unearned handouts often do more harm than good in the long run.
That said, a flourishing society must support those who are genuinely unable to care for themselves due to mental or physical limitations. A well-funded social safety net is a moral imperative—not as a human right, but as a societal choice to offer a hand-up rather than a handout whenever possible. For the truly frail, a handout may be necessary, and that’s okay; we should care for those who cannot care for themselves. But for those capable of mind and body, handouts risk personal and societal decline. True flourishing comes from empowering individuals to earn their way, not from redistributing wealth at the expense of others’ rights.
A Balanced Approach for the Heroic Community
As we strive for a world where 51% of humanity flourishes, we must anchor our efforts in a clear understanding of human rights. The rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are universal because they empower individuals without diminishing others. They align with the heroic community’s mission by fostering a world where people can innovate, create, and thrive freely.
When considering additional “rights” like healthcare or wealth redistribution, we should approach them as societal choices, not universal mandates. A flourishing society might decide to provide healthcare, education, or a safety net—not because they’re inalienable rights, but because they reflect our collective values. The distinction matters: conflating societal benefits with human rights risks empowering governments to overreach, potentially undermining the very freedoms that allow us to flourish.
Conclusion: Rights as the Bedrock of Flourishing
Human rights are the foundation of a flourishing world, but not all proposed rights are equal. The heroic community’s mission to see 51% of humanity thrive demands clarity on this point. Let’s champion the fundamental rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—rights that empower without taking away. And let’s engage in thoughtful debate about societal benefits like healthcare and wealth distribution, recognizing that their implementation must respect the freedoms we hold dear.
What do you think? Should universal healthcare or wealth redistribution be considered human rights, or are they better framed as societal goals? Share your thoughts below, and let’s keep the conversation going as we work toward a flourishing future.
Are you ready to activate your best self and inspire others to do the same? We’re thrilled to share the Flourishing Leaders Podcast with our Heroic Arizona community and beyond—a dynamic show packed with inspiration, practical tools, and wisdom to help you thrive in business and life. Whether you’re a member of our Heroic Arizona community or someone passionate about personal growth, leadership, and the mission of Heroic, this podcast is for you! ️
Listen now on Apple Podcasts: Flourishing Leaders Podcast
Why You’ll Love the Flourishing Leaders Podcast
Hosted by Scott Parsons, a longtime advocate of Heroic and a key connector in our Heroic Arizona initiatives, the Flourishing Leaders Podcast is your go-to resource for unlocking your heroic potential. Scott’s passion for conscious leadership and personal development shines through in every episode, offering actionable insights to help you become the best version of yourself.
Joining Scott as a frequent co-host is Jason Viyar, the newest addition to the Heroic Arizona Board of Directors! Many of you met Jason at our transformative Heroic Arizona education launch earlier this year, where his energy and vision for empowering others left a lasting impact. With his extensive background in leadership and education (check out his LinkedIn profile), Jason brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the podcast, making each episode both fun and deeply insightful.
Kicking Off with a Heroic Bang!
The podcast’s very first episode features none other than Brian Johnson, the Founder & CEO of Heroic Public Benefit Corporation (heroic.us). Brian’s mission to help 51% of humanity flourish by 2051 sets the tone for the series, blending ancient wisdom with modern science to inspire us all. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in our Heroic Arizona community or those curious about Heroic’s transformative philosophy.
Future episodes are just as powerful, offering a mix of inspiration, practical tips, and engaging conversations with leaders who embody the Heroic spirit. Each episode I listen to becomes a new favorite, but my current top pick is the conversation with Caroline Adams Miller, exploring why grit is essential for flourishing and how to grow it, plus the profound truth that happiness boils down to three words: Other people matter. This idea hit me like lightning, connecting directly to my days promoting conscious capitalism. A hero of that movement, Bob Chapman, CEO of Barry-Wehmiller, wrote the incredible book Everybody Matters, which details a business case study where Bob’s discovery led Barry-Wehmiller to adopt a forward-looking metric to reduce their employees’ divorce rates—an inspiring example of purpose-driven leadership. When I shared this connection with Scott Parsons, he sent a photo of his own copy of Everybody Matters and revealed that Bob Chapman is already scheduled as a future guest! If you’re attuned to the ideas of conscious capitalism, this podcast is tailor-made for you.
A Shared Vision: Heroic and Conscious Capitalism
The Flourishing Leaders Podcast resonates deeply with the values of Heroic Arizona and the broader Heroic community. Scott Parsons, introduced to us through Jason Viyar, has been instrumental in advancing our mission, including our groundbreaking education launch. His longtime advocacy for Heroic and his connections within the Conscious Capitalism movement have created a powerful synergy. If you’re drawn to the ideas of conscious leadership, purpose-driven business, or creating a thriving world, you’ll find a home in this podcast and our community.
Join the Movement
We invite our Heroic Arizona community—and anyone passionate about personal growth and leadership—to tune in to the Flourishing Leaders Podcast. Each episode is a step toward becoming the best version of yourself, equipped with tools to make a meaningful impact in your life and the lives of others.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts to never miss an episode.
Share this podcast with friends, colleagues, or anyone who shares our vision of a flourishing future.
Connect with us on social media to join the conversation and spread the word about Heroic Arizona and the podcast. Tag us and use #FlourishingLeaders to let us know how the podcast is inspiring you!
Let’s come together to activate our heroic potential and create a world where flourishing is the norm. Thank you to Scott Parsons, Jason Viyar, and Brian Johnson for leading the way—and thank YOU for being part of this movement.
With gratitude and enthusiasm,
Scott McIntosh and the Heroic Arizona Team
Ready to spark your leadership potential and inspire those around you? Heroic Arizona (HeroicAZ) invites you to Heroic Leadership 101: How to Inspire and Empower People to Do Great Things, a special 2-hour evening event on June 18, 2025, virtual or in-person at MAC6 in Tempe, Arizona. This free event for HeroicAZ members and invited guests is perfect for entrepreneurs, leaders, employees, and everyday heroes who want to lead with purpose—starting with themselves and rippling out to their families, friends, workplaces, and communities. Join us in-person or virtually for a 1-hour screening of the Heroic Leadership 101 course, followed by a 1-hour facilitated conversation to deepen your learning and connections. Whether you’re building a business, guiding a team, parenting, or uplifting friends, this event will empower you to activate your Heroic Potential and inspire greatness.
RSVP Now for June 18, 2025 Not yet a Member of HeroicAZ, send Scott.McIntosh@heroicaz.us a message to receive a special guest invitation and registration code.
What Is Heroic Leadership 101?
Heroic Leadership 101 is a 2-hour evening event designed to ignite your ability to lead and inspire in every area of your life. The evening begins with a 1-hour screening of Heroic’s powerful Leadership 101 course, which distills ancient wisdom and modern science into practical tools for self-mastery and influence. Afterward, join a 1-hour facilitated learning conversation—both in-person or virtually—where you’ll share insights, connect with others, and explore how to apply these principles to your unique leadership journey. This free event is open to HeroicAZ members and invited guests, making it an accessible way to experience Heroic’s transformative framework and join a community of purpose-driven heroes.
Top 10 Reasons to Attend: Leadership for Everyone
We’re all leaders—first of ourselves, then of others through our work, families, and friendships. Here are the top 10 reasons why CEO’s, entrepreneurs, leaders, employees, and people of all sorts should attend Heroic Leadership 101:
Event Details
Who Should Attend?
This event is for anyone ready to lead with purpose:
As a 501(c)(3) membership organization, HeroicAZ is excited to host this event in Arizona, fostering a community of heroes dedicated to self-mastery and service, inspired by our mission to transform lives locally and globally.
Why This Matters
In a world craving connection and purpose, we need leaders who inspire and empower others to shine. Heroic Leadership 101 equips you to be that leader, starting with yourself. By mastering your own energy and purpose, you’ll naturally uplift those around you—your kids, colleagues, or friends—creating a ripple effect of positive change. This free evening event is your chance to take the first step.
RSVP Today
Don’t miss this opportunity to ignite your leadership potential and connect with a community of heroes. Join us in Phoenix or virtually on June 18, 2025, for an inspiring evening of learning and conversation. RSVP now and start your journey to inspire and empower!
RSVP Now
“Heroic’s approach to leadership is practical and inspiring—it’s changed how I show up every day!” — Attendee Testimonial
About Heroic Arizona Heroic Arizona (HeroicAZ) is a financially and legally independent 501(c)(3) membership organization under charter from Heroic Public Benefit Corporation. We empower individuals and communities to live heroically through events, resources, and partnerships. Learn more at heroicaz.us.
At Heroic Arizona, we’re all about activating our heroic potential, drawing on ancient wisdom, modern science, and practical tools to become the best versions of ourselves. Recently, Brian Johnson, the visionary behind Heroic Public Benefit Corporation, shared a powerful one-minute daily wisdom video spotlighting A Complaint Free World by Will Bowen, alongside a six-page Philosopher’s Note distilling the book’s big ideas. This sparked a wave of excitement among Heroic and Heroic Arizona leaders and members, inspiring our community to take on the 21-Day Complaint Free Challenge as a transformative learning opportunity. Join us as we embark on this journey together, supported by our vibrant WhatsApp group and weekly roundtable discussions, to cultivate positivity, self-mastery, and meaningful connections.
What Is the 21-Day Complaint Free Challenge?
In A Complaint Free World, Will Bowen challenges us to go 21 days without complaining, criticizing, or gossiping. Why 21 days? Research suggests it takes about three weeks to form a new habit. By consciously avoiding negative speech, we rewire our minds to focus on solutions, gratitude, and positivity. Bowen’s method is simple but profound: wear a purple bracelet (or any reminder) and switch it to the other wrist each time you catch yourself complaining. Each slip resets your 21-day count, encouraging mindfulness and persistence. The goal isn’t just to curb complaints but to transform how we think, communicate, and show up in the world—perfectly aligning with Heroic’s mission to close the gap between who we are and who we’re capable of being.
Why Heroic Arizona Is All In
When Brian shared the A Complaint Free World wisdom on Heroic’s platform our community saw it as a call to action. Complaining can drain our energy and disconnect us from our virtues like wisdom, courage, and love—qualities we strive to embody as Heroic Arizona members. By accepting this challenge, we’re not just practicing self-mastery; we’re fostering a culture of positivity that ripples through our families, workplaces, and communities. Inspired by Brian’s distillation of Bowen’s ideas, several Heroic and Heroic Arizona leaders proposed we make this a collective effort. The response? Our HeroicAZ WhatsApp group lit up with members sharing insights, challenges, and strategies for staying complaint-free, proving that growth is amplified when we learn together.
Join the Challenge and Our Community
We invite all Heroic Arizona members—and those curious about our movement—to take the 21-Day Complaint Free Challenge and engage with our community in three powerful ways:
Accept the Challenge: Commit to 21 days without complaining, criticizing, or gossiping. Grab a bracelet, a rubber band, or any token to remind you of your goal. Each day, focus on solutions and gratitude, reframing negative thoughts into constructive ones. For example, instead of saying, “This meeting is a mess,” try, “Let’s clarify our goals to make this meeting more productive.” Not a Heroic Arizona member yet? This challenge is a perfect way to explore our philosophy of living with arete (excellence), and you’re welcome to join the journey. Check out the Philosopher’s Note on A Complaint Free World at heroic.us for inspiration to get started.
Share Learnings in Our WhatsApp Group: Our Heroic Arizona WhatsApp group has become a lively hub for discussing the challenge. Members are posting about moments they caught themselves mid-complaint, strategies for redirecting negativity (like pausing to breathe or journaling gratitude), and victories in staying complaint-free for days at a time. This group isn’t just for members—it’s open to anyone interested in Heroic Arizona as a way to explore membership. Join the conversation to share your progress, ask questions, and connect with others striving to be their best selves. Email me at Scott.McIntosh@heroicaz.us to get added to the group and start sharing your insights.
Join Our Weekly Roundtable: Every Thursday from 11 a.m. to noon, Heroic Arizona hosts a roundtable at MAC6 in Tempe, with a virtual option for those who can’t attend in person. These sessions are a space to dive deeper into the 21-Day Complaint Free Challenge, share learnings, and explore how Bowen’s principles align with Heroic’s focus on energy, work, and love. We’ll discuss practical tips, like reframing criticism into constructive feedback (e.g., telling a child, “I’d love to see your room tidy so we can enjoy our space” instead of “You never clean up”). Whether you’re a member or just curious, the roundtable is a welcoming environment to connect and grow. RSVP at heroicaz.us/events to join us in person or via Zoom.
The 21-Day Complaint Free Challenge is more than a personal experiment—it’s a step toward embodying the virtues that define a heroic life. At Heroic Arizona, we believe that small, intentional actions, like choosing solution-focused words, create big shifts in our mindset and impact. This challenge complements our work with MAC6’s community of conscious businesses and our educational initiatives, like the Heroic Journey curriculum, which fosters character and purpose in youth. By practicing complaint-free communication, we model resilience and positivity for our teams, families, and communities, aligning with our mission to help 51% of humanity flourish by 2051.
Take the First Step Today
Ready to activate your heroic potential? Here’s how to dive in:
Start the Challenge: Commit to 21 complaint-free days. Visit heroic.us to access Brian’s daily wisdom video and the A Complaint Free World Philosopher’s Note for guidance.
Join the WhatsApp Group: Email Scott.McIntosh@heroicaz.us to connect with our community and share your journey.
Attend the Roundtable: RSVP at heroicaz.us/events for our Thursday 11 a.m. session at MAC6 or virtually.
Explore Membership: Curious about Heroic Arizona? The WhatsApp group and roundtable are open to all, offering a taste of our community’s commitment to growth. Learn more at heroicaz.us/membership.
As Brian Johnson reminds us, “Today’s the day to move from theory to practice.” Let’s embrace the 21-Day Complaint Free Challenge together, transforming our words, thoughts, and lives. Share your commitment in the WhatsApp group or at the roundtable, and let’s inspire each other to live with arete. Who’s in?
Heroic Arizona is a chapter of Heroic Public Benefit Corporation, dedicated to fostering personal and community flourishing through wisdom, discipline, and love. Connect with us at heroicaz.us and join the movement to create a world where everyone thrives.
