Follow Loren's campaign at LorenColinForCongress.com. On this episode of The Foolish Optimist Podcast, host Amy McDonald welcomes Loren Colin, an independent candidate running for the US House District 34 in California. Colin, a Southern California native with a background in marketing and technology, discusses his journey, motivations for running, and his vision for progressive policies to break the current two-party system. The conversation covers a range of topics, including healthcare, housing, homelessness, economic disparity, and the importance of empathy and anti-racism. Tune in to hear Collin's thoughts on the need for governmental change and how his unique perspective aims to address the needs of one of the most diverse districts in the country. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:57 Loren's Political Journey and Independent Run 01:55 Defining Independence and Political Ideologies 04:50 Government's Role and Economic Policies 15:38 District Overview and Local Issues 20:41 Housing Crisis and Solutions 32:27 Campaign Strategy and Vision 33:25 Comparing Healthcare Systems: US vs. Germany and Japan 34:11 Taxation and Public Services: A Closer Look 34:55 Racism and Historical Context 36:28 The Benefits of Anti-Racism 37:09 Political Shifts and Self-Interest 39:20 The Role of Fear and Anger in Politics 39:55 The Common Enemy: Oligarchs and Billionaires 55:54 The Independent Movement and Political Change 57:33 Rapid Fire Questions with Loren Collin 01:02:13 Conclusion and Call to Action