John’s Substack

An idiosyncratic exploration of current events, history, art, science, and community.

Where China starts to make some sense to you

Having lived and worked around the world, I add real-life to my passion for history and technology in my pursuit of my focus on Democracy - the most vibrant thread in human development.

Economics and other interesting stuff

Whatever intrigues me--these days the Russo-Ukraine War with regular departures

Musings about film and life from Professor Richard Walter, Former Head of UCLA’s prestigious screenwriting programs

Your guide to the best writing on politics, culture, books, and ideas each weekend - from the New Statesman

The Existential Reflections of a Spiritual Vigilante

A permission slip to worry less

The Choice is Ours: Climate Disaster or a Sustainable Future

Poems, Plays, Politics and Ideas/solutions from a Life of Seeking, Contemplating and Creating

Events from the past, some flashes from the present. Happenings from my life and times that jumped into my brain. Nothing profound here, just some entertainment, maybe an insight or two. I hope you enjoy the stories. They're true, as I remember them.

The history of technology and the philosophy of progress, plus announcements from the Roots of Progress Institute

News at the intersection of Silicon Valley and democracy. On Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 5PM Pacific.

Susan Frybort offers heart-opening connection to support your introspection, creative expression and catharsis by sharing writing that changes you from within.