Peter Young: 100th Episode Free Cities Review
“It’s so much easier to tear down and criticize than it is to actually come up with an idea for changing something and making something better — and the inspiring thing about the free city projects is that although it’s still on a modest scale, there’s clear evidence.”
Today we celebrate the 100th episode of the podcast and I sat down with the Free Cities Foundation’s CEO, Peter Young to reflect upon the last couple of years spent in the Free Cities movement.
So, how can I sum up the last 100 episodes? Well, it’s been a phenomenal journey for me, one that’s taken me all over the world, meeting exceptional people who are really pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the realm of living together.
Of course, I feel incredibly fortunate to have had this opportunity to learn aloud about all of this, and I’m thankful that you’ve been able to come along with me for the ride. Before I started this podcast, governance wasn’t high on my list of interests, but as the months have gone by, I’ve realized it’s one of the most important aspects of the freedom we’re all searching for in the world. It’s also one of the key aspects that often lies at the heart of conflict and dispute.
If only it were as simple as “live and let live”… but we all know that it’s not—and it never will be. So, we carry on discussing, building, and creating parallel systems into which people can voluntarily opt in.
There are no utopias in the future; there’s no end to this road. But right now, what exists in our present is a world in which you can choose to work on a project you believe in—a project that you can offer to your fellow humans, to join in or not. And after that, as I’ve said many times before, it’s just a matter of turning up each day and putting in the work.
Never forget: you’re working on what I believe are the most interesting projects on the planet, at this particular and incredible time in history. And I, for one, am extremely grateful for the opportunity.
So here’s to another 100 episodes of this podcast and to all the future pioneers I’ll be talking to over the next two years. I salute you! I’ve loved hanging out with you all.
What a time to be alive.
Enjoy the conversation.