Pulse of Pride

Traveling internationally exposes you to new cultures, perspectives, and, unfortunately, the occasional faux pas. And let’s face it: fellow Americans often bumble their way across the globe with all the subtlety of a bull in a china shop. Ever cringed at the sight of an American tourist making a spectacle of themselves far from home?  … Read more

Class disparity in America is growing at an alarming rate, creating a chasm between the wealthy and the rest of society. How did we get here, and what can be done to bridge the gap? 1. Rising Income Inequality The top 1% of Americans hold more wealth than the bottom 90% combined. This stark disparity … Read more

In cities across the United States, a variety of stressors—from economic struggles to racial tensions and urban planning issues—have reached a boiling point. Here are the 21 cities facing some of the most pressing challenges. 1. Minneapolis, Minnesota Minneapolis has been a national focal point for racial justice since the murder of George Floyd in … Read more

Discovering American English can feel like wandering through a linguistic maze, especially with regional idioms that might puzzle outsiders. From New York City’s streets to Appalachia’s hills, each area has its own unique language. Here, we uncover 20 regional expressions from across the United States that might leave you scratching your head or laughing at … Read more

Americans are renowned worldwide for their hospitality, but even in the land of the free and the home of the brave, some towns and cities buck the trend. Here’s a list of places where the welcome mat might as well read “Go Away.” Let’s explore why they might not be winning any friendliness contests. 1. … Read more

America is often seen as the land of opportunity and innovation, inspiring admiration and envy from people around the globe. What makes the United States such a standout nation? 1. Hollywood Hollywood is the epicenter of global entertainment, producing films and TV shows that captivate audiences worldwide. The glamour and fame associated with Hollywood stars … Read more

Certain states are witnessing a significant exodus as residents seek better opportunities and lifestyles elsewhere. Here are 21 states experiencing notable population declines as people pursue greener pastures. 1. California Despite its allure, California is experiencing a significant outflow of residents due to high living costs, housing affordability issues, and concerns about wildfires and droughts. … Read more

Far-right extremists have shed their fear and gained a public platform. Their toxic ideologies are now openly celebrated, creating a more divided and hostile nation. Trump didn’t just empower the far-right; he made their hate-filled ideas mainstream. So, how did we get to this point? 1. The Trump Presidency Donald Trump’s presidency marked a significant … Read more

When it comes to living the American dream, location is everything. Here’s a rundown of places you might want to skip unless you’re researching a thesis on urban decay or filming a sequel to Mad Max. 1. Camden, New Jersey If you’ve ever wanted to live in a place where the local motto might as … Read more

Searching for a family home in the U.S. doesn’t have to break the bank. Across the country, there are cities where the dream of homeownership is still within reach, combining affordable living with quality of life. Let’s take a closer look at 18 such cities and what makes each a unique place to call home. … Read more

New York City: a dazzling mosaic of culture, energy, and ambition. Yet, even the most glittering metropolises have their challenges, and recent years have seen some New Yorkers pondering life beyond the iconic skyline. Here’s a look at why some residents are exploring new possibilities, driven by a mix of personal, economic, and lifestyle factors. … Read more

Have you ever questioned the role of religion in your life? Many Americans are finding that traditional religious practices, especially Christianity, no longer resonate with their daily lives. Here are 20 reasons why you might be rethinking your faith. 1. Science and Rationality In an age of scientific discovery, many find it hard to reconcile … Read more

The Baby Boomers: a generation that rocked the economy like a hurricane, leaving behind a trail of financial challenges for those caught in the aftermath. As they strutted through the economic landscape, their moves were bold, but the footprints? Monumentally deep. Here’s 20 seismic shifts they initiated, making the American Dream a tougher climb for … Read more

Have you ever stumbled upon a law that left you scratching your head? From quirky to downright baffling, here are some surprising laws still on the books across America. 1. No Ice Cream Cone in Your Back Pocket In Alabama, it’s illegal to carry an ice cream cone in your back pocket. This odd law … Read more

Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition characterized by significant mood swings, including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). Recognizing the signs can be crucial for seeking timely help and understanding your experiences or those of a loved one. Here’s a look at some key indicators in a style that’s easy to … Read more

The debate over gun control in the United States is as heated as it is polarized, spotlighting the struggle between advocating for individual rights and pursuing broader public safety measures. How can we navigate this complex issue to find a balance that respects constitutional freedoms while reducing gun violence? 1. The Right to Bear Arms … Read more

Ah, the 1970s: a time when fashion was loud, attitudes were laid-back, and some cultural behaviors were downright outrageous by today’s standards. Here’s a look at things from the ‘70s that would raise more than a few eyebrows if they made a comeback today. 1. Rampant Workplace Discrimination Job listings openly specifying “male only” or … Read more

Americans often wonder why they might be greeted with cold shoulders abroad. Is it the loud tourist stereotype, or is there more simmering beneath the surface? 1. Overconsumption and Waste Americans are known for their “bigger is better” mentality, which often translates to excessive consumption and waste. This behavior is not only unsustainable but increasingly … Read more

Texas: a state so large it has its own traditions, some of which might have the rest of the world (and even some fellow Americans) scratching their heads. Here’s a light-hearted look at 15 weird traditions that make Texas uniquely…well, Texas. 1. High School Football Rivalries In Texas, Friday nights are sacred, and high school … Read more

Ever feel like America’s rulebook was written by someone with a dartboard? Across the pond or down under, things get even wackier. Let’s take a walk on the wild side of global “Do’s” that are definite “Don’ts” in the Land of the Free. Are you ready to find out just how bizarrely different the world … Read more

Spotting an American ex-military individual doesn’t always require a keen eye. Some signs are so unmistakable they practically announce themselves. Here are 20 tell-tale signs that you’re dealing with a veteran of the U.S. armed forces. 1. The Haircut Nothing says military like a high and tight haircut. Even years after service, many ex-military men … Read more

Looking for a lifestyle upgrade without the hefty price tag? Across the U.S., there are hidden gems where affordability aligns with quality living. From states with the lowest living costs to those offering significant tax benefits, these 15 destinations promise a fulfilling life that won’t drain your bank account. 1. Mississippi: The Southern Belle Mississippi … Read more

Homelessness in America isn’t just about not having a roof over your head — it’s a complex issue of economic, social, and political challenges. These 22 cities, each tell a story of struggle, resilience, and the quest for solutions amidst skyrocketing rents, scarce affordable housing, and systemic barriers. 1. Los Angeles, CA Los Angeles is … Read more

Exploring the vast and varied landscape of the United States, this list ranks states from the absolute best places to plant your roots to those requiring more love and attention. Let’s dive into the rankings, exploring what each state offers and where it might fall short, all without the frills of pros and cons subheadings. … Read more

Why do Americans often find themselves on the receiving end of eye rolls when they step off their home turf? Is it just about being the loud tourists, or do personal behaviors weigh heavily in global perceptions? 1. Speaking Louder Than Necessary Americans often speak at volumes considered too loud in many cultures, which can … Read more

The decision to join the military is more about money now than ever. Here’s why fewer Americans are signing up, and how finances play a big role. 1. Stagnant Wages The starting pay for an enlisted soldier is significantly lower compared to private sector jobs requiring similar levels of education and responsibility. For example, a … Read more

The quest for the perfect place to call home in the USA often leads to a rude awakening about the cost of living. From the eye-watering price of a modest home to the gulp-inducing total at the grocery store checkout, let’s dive into the reality of the 15 most unaffordable states in the US. Buckle … Read more

In the United States, affordability remains a pressing issue for many residents, with certain states facing particularly high costs of living. This analysis delves into the economic realities of the nation’s top 14 most unaffordable states, uncovering the factors contributing to their financial burdens. 1. Hawaii Hawaii consistently ranks as one of the most unaffordable … Read more

The Baby Boomers: a generation that rocked the economy like a hurricane, leaving behind a trail of financial challenges for those caught in the aftermath. As they strutted through the economic landscape, their moves were bold, but the footprints? Monumentally deep. Here’s 20 seismic shifts they initiated, making the American Dream a tougher climb for … Read more

Companies often try to show they stand for more than just profits by getting involved in social issues. But what happens when these moves end up backfiring? Here’s a look at 18 companies that missed the mark. 1. Abercrombie & Fitch’s Diversity Disaster Abercrombie & Fitch aimed to promote diversity but faced backlash for not … Read more

Navigating the generational divides of our time reveals a list of modern trends and evolving social norms that seem specifically designed to challenge the patience of many Boomers. Here’s a look at 20 aspects of contemporary life that often ruffle the feathers of the Boomer generation. 1. Smartphones at Dinner The common sight of every … Read more

The landscape of American preferences is ever-evolving. What are some surprising things Americans would like to see disappear from their country? 1. Robocalls Unwanted robocalls have plagued Americans for years, interrupting their daily lives. The desire to ban these incessant calls is nearly universal. 2. Single-Use Plastics Many Americans are pushing for a ban on … Read more

America’s patience with the ‘woke’ culture seems to be wearing thin. What’s driving this backlash, and who are the key figures caught in the crossfire? Are you, like many Americans, asking why, instead of woke, we can’t try common sense and kindness?  1. Cancel Culture Overdrive Many Americans are frustrated with how easily people are … Read more

Ever feel like America’s rules were created by someone throwing darts? Travel abroad, and the quirks get even stranger. Let’s explore some global “Do’s” that would be absolute “Don’ts” in the Land of the Free. Ready to discover just how wildly different the world can be? 1. Kinder Surprise Eggs, US vs. Planet Earth America … Read more

The parent company of Jack Daniel’s whiskey recently announced its plans to scrap their corporate diversity, equity and inclusion programs. What will this mean for the future of inclusion programs in the workspace? No More Inclusivity Programs for This Whiskey Brand On August 21, film director and conservative activist Robby Starbuck leaked screenshots of an … Read more

The Paris Olympics produced one of the most controversial opening ceremony performances in recent decades last week, and organizers and directors have now responded to the backlash.  Apology For the Olympic Opening The organizers of the Paris Olympics opening ceremony have publicly apologized after one performance caused controversy around the globe, with some groups accusing … Read more

The Paris Paralympic Games are underway, bringing our attention to disabled athletes and diversity in sports. As Paris prepares, questions arise about accessibility and media attention surrounding para-athletes. Countdown to the Paralympics Paris is preparing to kick off the Paralympic Games this week, two weeks after the end of the Summer Olympics. The city is … Read more

​​Several major American book publishers, including Penguin Random House and Sourcebooks, have come together and filed a lawsuit against Florida education officials over a state law banning access to books in school libraries. Six Major Publishers Unite Against Censorship Penguin Random House, Hachette Book Group, HarperCollins, Macmillan, Simon & Schuster, and Sourcebooks are the six … Read more

Over the last five years, California has spent $24 billion attempting to address its massive homelessness problem, but an audit from the government has revealed California didn’t track where that money went or if it even helped at all. California’s Growing Homeless Population California now has 171,000 homeless people living on the streets, making up … Read more

Sick of the cancel culture circus? You’re not alone. Cancel culture has become an American staple, but is it really making things better? Here’s a look at how deep this trend goes. 1. Social Media Outrage Platforms like Twitter and Instagram are hotbeds for public outrage, where a single tweet can ruin reputations. Just ask … Read more

Transitioning has been a life-changing experience for me, but it hasn’t come without its challenges. From shifting dynamics with friends and family to navigating new social and professional landscapes, being a trans male has brought unexpected hurdles. I want to share some of my personal experiences to highlight the realities of my journey and to … Read more

Americans are often the subject of wild assumptions and exaggerated stereotypes. Are these misconceptions affecting how the world views the average American? 1. All Americans Are Obese Despite the rising obesity rates, not every American is overweight. Many are health-conscious and actively engage in fitness routines and balanced diets. 2. Americans Only Eat Fast Food … Read more

The phrase “go woke, go broke” has become a popular cautionary slogan among critics who believe that companies paying too much attention to social justice or progressive causes risk alienating their customer base. Here’s a look at 20 U.S. companies that faced backlash after taking stands on various issues. 1. Bud Light In April 2022, … Read more