The Cost of Living Crisis with Frank Spring

In this episode of What Do We Do Next?, I sat down with Frank A. Spring, founding partner at Altum Insight and co-founder of Undaunted Ventures, for one of the most grounded and eye-opening conversations I’ve had in a while. Frank’s been advising progressive campaigns in both the US and UK for years, but what really struck me is how clearly he breaks down the stories, the ones we’re told, the ones we believe, and the ones we carry, that shape how we see politics, identity, and each other.

We talk about where political disillusionment really comes from, why it feels like everything’s burning, and how the constant pressure of bad news, rising costs, and fear has reshaped our public mood. But Frank doesn’t leave it there, he offers a new way to think about fascism (and why it’s not as permanent as it seems), repositions the conversation around immigration, and most importantly, reminds us that hope isn’t naïve. It’s necessary.

If you’ve been feeling grief, burnout, or like your voice doesn’t matter, this episode is for you. We talk about how to stay engaged without falling apart, how to show up with your time, your money, or your energy in a way that’s sustainable and actually moves the needle.

This is a conversation filled with honesty, practical insights, and a quiet kind of encouragement I think we all need right now. Listen in, I think you’ll feel a little less alone by the end.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
01:22 - "Stories: Patterns in Human History"
05:35 - Exploring Montanans' Views on Democracy
11:47 - Fascism: Aesthetic, Exclusion, Supremacy
16:59 - "Tucker Carlson Criticized Amid Challenges"
23:28 - Courts and Resistance in American Fascism
31:08 - Rising Costs vs. Quality of Life
31:49 - Middle-Class Costs Double in 20 Years
38:09 - Democratic Party's Relevance Crisis
46:52 - Shrinkflation: Profit Over Consumer Value
49:12 - Immigration Insights and Social Media Chaos
54:02 - "Anger and Distrust in U.S. Politics"
01:01:05 - Rethinking Civility in American Politics
01:07:05 - Finding Common Ground Beyond Politics
01:09:35 - "Misguided Immigration Policies Critiqued"
01:13:07 - Outro

Quotes:
“America is imperfect but striving toward its potential. Stay present, grateful, and persistent. Together, we will overcome.”- Frank Spring

“Things may not be as bad as they seem. Together, we can move forward. Every action matters. We all have something to give.”- Molly Ruland

Key Takeaways:
The Power of Storytelling in Politics
Fascism: A Minority That Always Loses
Resistance Looks Different For Everyone
The Root Issue: The Cost of Living Crisis
Our Government Can—and Should—Do More
Immigration: It’s Not About Hate—It’s About Chaos
Stop Bringing Facts to a Feelings Fight
Mourning Is Not The End—It’s Part of the Process
Stay Present, Stay Grateful, Keep Doing Hard Things

Connect with Frank Spring
Website: Altum Insight & Undaunted Ventures

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