Van Jones: Gen Z Will Shape the Century

In this episode, Van Jones joins PUSH The Next Generation host, Ashley Jackson, for a raw and urgent conversation about the current state of America and the road ahead. With democratic institutions under attack, Van calls for a collective reckoning—what he describes as the choice between “breakdown or breakthrough.”

Together, Van and Ashley explore what it means to respond in a moment where honesty, self-assessment, and strategic thinking matter more than ever. In naming the “spoiled brat behavior” that threatens progress, Van seeks to make space for grief and redirect frustration into reflection, action, and growth.

Their conversation also touches on Ashley’s own family legacy—including the enduring lessons of her father, Rev. Jesse Jackson—as they examine the necessity of coalition-building across lines of race, faith, class, and ideology. They also reflect on the historic role of the Black-Jewish alliance as a pillar of democracy. Van underscores that in a time of rising authoritarianism, resistance demands knowing your opponent as deeply as you know yourself.

With a challenge to Gen Z to step into their power, Van’s message is part warning, part rallying cry — not just to survive this moment, but to shape what comes next.

Don’t miss this special episode of PUSH The Next Generation—tune in today!

Produced by MurMur Impact.

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