Kamen works as a lifestyle management consultant who explores the art and science of happiness as a speaker, author, and positive psychology expert. Through her globally syndicated podcast, books, media appearances, and documentary film, Lisa has impacted millions of people around the world.

LISA CYPERS KAMEN

meet your host

leave a review

Elections Aren’t Enough: What Real Democracy Actually Requires

Do elected officials actually represent you? Once they take office, governance often seems to turn into a black hole where democratic accountability disappears. And, depending on your perspective, we may be living through the most frustrating political climate in U.S. history, leaving many citizens feeling unheard. Democracy thrives not on passive observation, but on everyday people’s enduring commitment to make their voices heard. Do you know what actions your generation must take to spark change?

For expert insights on overcoming political anxiety, Harvesting Happiness Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Vermont, Minh Ly, PhD.

Minh highlights the rights and responsibilities of democratic citizenship, reminding us that every historical advance in justice and inclusion has relied on mass political action. True democratic responsibility goes beyond voting; it includes adult civic education, grassroots organization, and active cooperation to keep authoritarianism from festering.

Original Air Date Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Tune in:

Meet Our Guest:

Minh Ly, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Vermont, where he teaches and researches democratic theory, economic justice, and the rights of democratic citizenship. A Harvard and Brown alumnus, he has also held posts at Stanford’s Center for Ethics in Society and Princeton’s Center for Human Values.

His book Answering to Us: Why Democracy Demands Accountability tackles one of the most urgent questions of our time: what does real democracy demand when elected leaders undermine the very freedoms that make accountability possible?

Book: Answering to Us: Why Democracy Demands Accountability

Minh Ly, PhD—Democratic Accountability:

Elections alone don’t make democracy. {3:07}
The political benefits of solidarity. {5:32}
Elected Authoritarianism is not democracy. {7:07}
The dangerous myth of popular will. {9:14}
How to protect democracy. {14:44}
Civic education for adults is crucial. {26:05}
The importance of civil disagreement and debate. {30:22}

Like what you’re hearing?

WANT MORE SOUND IDEAS FOR DEEPER THINKING?

Check out the Harvesting Happiness podcast episode library and special More Mental Fitness by Harvesting Happiness bonus content available exclusively on Substack and Medium.

Follow Minh Ly PhD:

Shareables:

“We don't understand collectively that we actively have to participate in this great experiment. We can't rely completely on the people in leadership positions.” @LisaKamen on @HH_TalkRadio Share on X “Democratic accountability extends way beyond elections.” @MinhLyuvm on @HH_TalkRadio Share on X “We have to remember how much power we have as ordinary citizens.” @MinhLyuvm on @HH_TalkRadio Share on X “People need to know their rights in order to defend those rights, according to George Washington.” @MinhLyuvm on @HH_TalkRadio Share on X

Grab More Joy Below:

Are We Happy Yet? Eight Keys to Unlocking a Joyful Life — A boot camp manual for greater emotional fitness. Happiness waits for no one and sometimes we all need support. What is getting in the way of your happiness right now? Explore lifelong relationships as part of your journey to happiness.

H–Factor: Where is Your Heart? — Lisa’s documentary film explores the journey of human happiness. Emotions are contagious and happiness is a universally desired state. We tend to forget we all have the freedom to be happy or the liberty to be miserable each day. Our lifelong relationships have a big influence on this journey.