Pete Davis on "Join Or Die" and the Power of Community

For our very special 40th episode of Rabbithole, we're taking a break from our current series to interview our very own Pete Davis, who co-wrote, co-directed, and narrated the documentary "Join or Die," ahead of the film's premiere at SXSW this weekend. The documentary is an in-depth look at the works of political scientist Robert Putnam, whose works including 2000's "Bowling Alone" connect the decline in participation in clubs, religious groups, and other social organizations to the present crises in American democracy. In this episode, Dan and Sparky have a chat with Pete about what went into making the documentary, working with Bob, and why it's great to become a 'joiner.'

Learn more about 'Join Or Die' at https://putnamdoc.com. If you're in Austin, Texas this weekend, you can watch the film as part of the SXSW Film Festival. If you aren't, stay tuned for the film coming to a film festival or screening near you, or reach out to Pete about organizing a screening for your own club or community group!

This episode was edited by Dan Thorn (@danieljtvthorn) of Pink Noise Studios in Somerville, MA, and it features theme music by Danny Bradley. If you liked the podcast, please consider supporting our investigators on our Patreon.