Ryan Bernsten, an American playwright and Oxford grad student, is in the middle of a cross-country journey covering all 50 states. Over the past few months he's attended a Trump rally the night before Election Day, chatted with mayors of big cities and teeny-tiny towns, stayed with 21 different families, and enjoyed crab cakes, ice cream, and other American delights. Our conversation focusses on Ryan's unexpected takeaways, social media vs. the real world, and the kindness of strangers from across the aisle that he's experienced along the way.  You can follow along at 50StatesofMind.org.

Episode Notes:

• Despite a year of bad news, most Americans remain optimistic about 2019, PBS, 12/28/18

• 50 States of Mind Instagram

• United States Conference of Mayors