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Going forward into 2023, Plumbing Manufacturers International - PMI will discontinue posting on this Safe Plumbing page and will consolidate its Facebook posting to the Plumbing Manufacturers International - PMI page. We encourage you to follow us on Facebook on this PMI page. We will keep the Safe Plumbing page up for now but may decide to discontinue it soon. Thanks and have a happy, healthy and successful 2023!

Supply House Times, Sloan Valve Company, PHCPPros, Plumbing & HVAC Magazine, EPA WaterSense, Ge**er Plumbing Fixtures, American Society of Plumbing Engineers, Bradley Corporation, Fisher Manufacturing, BrassCraft, World Plumbing Council, PM Magazine, CONTRACTOR Magazine, Bathroom Manufacturers Association, PM Engineer

Working as a commercial shell diver in 1992, Chad Pregracke was appalled by the heaps of garbage he discovered in the Mississippi River. He decided to do whatever it took to clean up the river, he told attendees of Plumbing Manufacturers International’s Manufacturing Success Conference.

Pregracke, who grew up along the river’s banks, overcame many obstacles as he started his journey – from scraping up funding to securing a place to store and recycle tons of trash. Today he runs Living Lands & Waters – what he describes as the only “industrial strength” river cleanup organization in the world. Pregracke thanked Plumbing Manufacturers International members for their water innovations and collaboration, including Elkay Manufacturing for its long-time support of his work. https://bit.ly/3PflIys

Addressing attendees of Plumbing Manufacturers International - PMI’s Manufacturing Success Conference, megatrends and sustainability expert Andrew Winston, co-author of “Net Positive: How Courageous Companies Thrive by Giving More than They Take,” said a company’s success comes down to answering one question: Is the world better off because your business is in it?

A decades-long focus on short-term shareholder profits is giving way to becoming “net positive” – devoting more resources to the environment and society than a company takes. PMI members have been stepping up efforts to address environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies and actions, looking for more ways to help leave the planet a better place. https://bit.ly/3W5EgmC

Focus on People and Planet to Build ‘Net Positive’ Future - Issuu A big shift is taking place in what it means to be a successful business. A decades-long focus on short-term share holder profits is giving way to becoming “net positive” – devoting more resources to the environment and society than a company takes.

Plumbing Manufacturers International CEO/Executive Director Kerry Stackpole discusses big data’s effect on manufacturing and reflects on what the industry accomplished in 2022. He thanks industry members for their continued support and confidence in PMI. https://bit.ly/3UIDlHK

Martin Knieps, Plumbing Manufacturers International Board of Directors president, calls on industry members to take proactive approaches to addressing water challenges as part of PMI’s initiative.

Knieps cites the Seventh Generation Principle – an ancient Iroquois philosophy – in his call to action; decisions we make today should result in a sustainable world seven generations into the future, so now is the time for action. Read more: https://bit.ly/3FBDyYZ

Read and Share the Year-End 2022 Ripple Effect from Plumbing Manufacturers International - PMI!

Read and share this issue, which includes highlights and photos from the Manufacturing Success Conference.

One highlight was the introduction of PMI’s initiative. Read about how the first project of this initiative — legacy product replacement — can potentially save up to 362 billions of gallons of water in California alone!

This issue features summaries of PMI22 keynote addresses delivered by Andrew Winston and Chad Pregracke of Living Lands and Waters. Their stories of how to create success out of environmental responsibility serve as inspiration to us all. In their monthly columns, PMI leaders Martin Knieps and Kerry Stackpole thank all those giving their time and effort to PMI during the past year. Happy holidays to all!

As the spotlight turns to incoming PMI president Sal Gattone and the members of the 2023 PMI Board of Directors, PMI invites all of you to begin the process of exploring PMI leadership opportunities. Leading a committee or serving on the board is a great way of enhancing your career experience. Read more about steps you can take on page 12 of this issue.

This issue features PMI22 Gold Sponsors CSA Group, ICC Evaluation Service and ICC Evaluation Service and LIXIL Global and Silver Sponsors International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, CONTRACTOR Magazine, PHCPPros and Plumbing & Mechanical/Supply House Times! Thanks again for your generous support!

We hope you enjoy the Year-End Ripple Effect!
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Expert Shares Ways to Attract Skilled Workers

The struggle to find skilled talent continues for and other manufacturers. By better understanding the needs and motivations of hourly employees, companies can more successfully attract, engage and retain these critical workers.

Kylene Zenk, director of manufacturing at UKG – an innovative workforce management company – shared creative practices, tools and policies to help PMI members get a leg up on finding during the PMI webinar, “Manufacturing a Winning Talent Management Strategy,” on Sept. 28.

Read more in Plumbing Manufacturers International's Ripple Effect: https://bit.ly/3VESk7c

New COVID Boosters, Flu Shots Can Protect Workers

U.S. health officials are forecasting continuing COVID cases, as well as an uptick in the flu compared to the past two years. To keep workers prepared and safe, many companies, including Plumbing Manufacturers International members, are offering onsite COVID and flu vaccine clinics.

Several PMI members said they strongly encourage workers to get vaccinated but leave the final decision up to each individual.

“We don’t mandate but encourage employees to get the COVID vaccine,” said Amy Eaton, director of human resources at Ge**er Plumbing Fixtures, a PMI member. “We also respect employees who want to continue wearing a mask. We want them to feel comfortable. This is a judgment-free zone.”

The company will offer its regular onsite vaccines and continue sharing its safety guidelines with employees. The guidelines urge workers to stay home if they’re sick – regardless of whether they have COVID, the flu, or another type of infection, Eaton said.

“We tell employees to weigh your risks when it comes to the COVID and make that call for yourself,” said Diane Rudy, vice president of human resources at PMI member Bradley Corp. “However, we try to remove as many barriers as possible to either offer the vaccines onsite or provide information about where to get them. We also suggest they talk with their doctors.”

Both Eaton and Rudy said their companies handle immunocompromised employees with heightened COVID concerns on a case-by-case basis. Ge**er asks employees with health issues or concerns to work with human resources, Eaton said. Fortunately, most employees can work from home, she added.

“We want everyone to feel comfortable, so we will do whatever is practical,” Rudy stated. She explained that the company has created safety measures, following CDC guidelines, for both prevention and treatment. Preventative measures involve regularly sanitizing offices and manufacturing facilities. When a worker becomes ill, Bradley offers support and information about COVID testing locations and guidance on when to return to work.

Read more in Plumbing Manufacturers International's Ripple Effect:

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Imagine a Day Without Water 2022 Is Today

Imagine a Day Without Water 2022, from the Value of Water Campaign, focuses on those who don’t have to imagine a day without water access. So far in 2022, dozens of communities have experienced devastating impacts to their water supplies due to heavy rains, flooding, drought, and failing infrastructure. This week also marks the 50th anniversary of the Clean Water Act. Learn more about Imagine a Day Without Water and sign up to participate: https://imagineadaywithoutwater.org

Aspiring Leaders Learn Simple Ways to Unlock Creativity

Many believe that only certain professionals, such as artists and dancers, are naturally creative. However, with the right method, anyone can master – a vital skill for solving business challenges and consistently delivering .

Creativity expert Nir Bashan taught Plumbing Manufacturers International members a repeatable and predictable method of tapping into innovation called “The Trinity of Creativity” during the Aug. 31 PMI Aspiring Leaders Workshop.

“Creativity and innovation are life tools. They are elemental to everything we do and the very nature of our survival,” said Bashan, who has taught Hollywood and music stars such as Woody Harrelson and Rod Stewart, and thousands of business leaders, how to harness the power of creativity.

However, he noted that myths about creativity stop people from honing their creative skills. They say to themselves: “I’m not an artist,” “I won’t be taken seriously,” and “Creativity comes in a flash of insight.”

One participant recalled winning a creativity ribbon in grammar school for designing a poster about pollution. “But I’ve always thought that I don’t have any creativity,” she said. Bashan said that all kids are creative and creativity gets stifled in school, on the job, or somewhere else.

“You can get it back. Creativity is not an art. You’re going to learn how to make it happen today,” he added.

Read more in Plumbing Manufacturers International's Ripple Effect: https://bit.ly/3TbPIfF

Aspiring Leaders Learn Simple Ways to Unlock Creativity - Issuu Many believe that only certain professionals, such as artists and dancers, are naturally creative. However, with the right method, anyone can master creativity – a vital skill for solving business challenges and consistently delivering innovation.

Walking in Washington’s Shoes Links History with Leadership

George Washington’s leadership lessons are as fresh and insightful today as they were over 200 years ago. A group of Plumbing Manufacturers International members recently had the chance to “Be Washington” for a day, learning his decision-making skills to help solve challenges facing their companies and the industry.

Held at the George Washington Leadership Institute at historic Mount Vernon, Virginia, the PMI CEO Thinking Forum allowed participants to immerse themselves in Washington’s intellect and ethics while providing time to explore new leadership strategies and learn creative ways to inspire others.

Many of the participants described the forum as a unique experience that opened their eyes to how ahead of his time Washington was – as he faced extraordinary challenges in his military and political career.

“I really enjoyed being George for a day. Until now, I didn’t truly appreciate how worldly he was and what a strong businessperson he became, which was inspirational,” said Todd Teter, president, House of Rohl, Water Innovations EMEAA, and PMI’s immediate past president.

“This was the most intimate leadership forum I’ve ever attended, which led to great conversations and an opportunity for everyone to be heard,” said Kelly Safis, leader of sales, LIXIL Americas, a PMI member. “I’ve never seen this type of format to teach lessons in leadership, ethics and integrity using real-life situations.”

Read more in Plumbing Manufacturers International's Ripple Effect:

Walking in Washington’s Shoes Links History with Leadership - Issuu George Washington’s leadership lessons are as fresh and insightful today as they were over 200 years ago. A group of Plumbing Manufacturers International members recently had the chance to “Be Washington” for a day, learning his decision-making skills to help solve challenges facing their comp...

In the October Ripple Effect from Plumbing Manufacturers International, PMI CEO/Executive Director Kerry Stackpole writes that one cannot help but be optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead to address climate change and fashion meaningful solutions that address our future water and energy nexus. "Considering the wide-ranging and clever innovations taking place in the plumbing fixture and fittings business, the world of smart water devices, and our ability to capture and contain energy from a variety of clean power sources leads me to believe that everything is going to be alright. Let’s get busy." Read more: https://bit.ly/3ySCYlX

Optimism Is Essential For a Better Future - Issuu The flickering neon sign read, “Everything is going to be alright.” Given the country in which I was standing, I couldn’t decide whether this sign was a form of propaganda, mind control, or only an expression of hope by a neon artist to his fellow citizens.

Read and Share the October 2022 Ripple Effect!

Read and share the October Ripple Effect, which features the latest additions to the PMI22 Manufacturing Success Conference schedule and recaps all the reasons you should be there from Oct. 24-27! Learn more and register today to get the discounted rate for both the conference and the PMI Aspiring Leaders Program on Oct. 24!

We also take you behind the scenes of the annual PMI CEO Thinking Forum, where a group of PMI member company executives had the opportunity to “Be Washington” during this unique leadership development opportunity held at George Washington’s home in Mount Vernon.

In his monthly column, PMI CEO & Executive Director Kerry Stackpole explains why he’s optimistic despite the drought and other challenges faced by our society. He’s optimistic because he knows that the plumbing and water industries have the innovative ability to make everything alright.

ICYMI — we have summaries of recent webinars — one about creativity hosted by Nir Bashan, advisor to Hollywood and music stars such as Woody Harrelson and Rod Stewart, and another about attracting and keeping skilled workers. This webinar was hosted by Kylene Zenk, a talent management expert. Login to our webinars page to view webinar materials.

Have you received your COVID vaccine or booster, as well as your flu shot? We explore what PMI member companies are doing to keep their workplaces as safe and healthy as possible during an expected fall and winter surge.

Thanks again to PMI22 Gold Sponsors CSA Group, International Code Council and ICC Evaluation Service and LIXIL Global and Silver Sponsors International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, CONTRACTOR Magazine, PHCPPros and Plumbing & Mechanical/Supply House Times! Learn why your company should be a sponsor, too!

We hope you enjoy the October 2022 Ripple Effect! https://bit.ly/3M2NIUg

President Joe Biden signed into law the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, a comprehensive $280 billion bill to boost public and private sector investments in critical and emerging technologies, including premise research. Plumbing Manufacturers International applauds its approval. Read more in the Sept. Ripple Effect: https://bit.ly/3UoA0ip

use artificial intelligence to create water-efficient products that help to sustain water resources. That’s truly inspiring! Read more from Plumbing Manufacturers International CEO/Executive Director Kerry Stackpole in the Sept. Ripple Effect: https://bit.ly/3UiL940

AI, Big Data and Rachel Carson - Issuu What are those moments of awe that inspire you? Do you remember the first time you came upon a sunlit meadow glistening and damp with morning dew?

The Effects of Climate Change Have Arrived at Our Doorsteps

The arctic is warming four times as fast as the rest of the planet, a new published scientific study reports. Verkhoyansk, a Russian town located within the Arctic Circle, had a high temperature of 100 degrees F.

Wildfires flare up around the world as hot and dry conditions persist. Water levels in many reservoirs, lakes and rivers have become depleted. In some cases, this water has disappeared completely.

In our homes, our water-efficient toilets, showerheads and faucets help to conserve previous resources. We’re running our air conditioners more frequently. We’re rethinking our lawns and gardens and learning how to reuse water for outdoor irrigation. We’re considering the purchase of electric vehicles and solar panels. The effects of climate change have arrived at our doorstep.

These effects have become an urgent concern of Plumbing Manufacturers International member companies, too. At the PMI22 Manufacturing Success Conference, Oct. 24-27, in Louisville, we plan to present more definitely how PMI can be a resource in our mutual journey to more sustainable water resources. Make plans today to join us, so that you can participate in this historic initiative. The effects of climate change have arrived at our doorsteps, but we must turn them away.

Read more of PMI President Martin Knieps column in the September issue of Plumbing Manufacturers International's Ripple Effect: https://bit.ly/3S8dAzJ

Read the September 2022 Ripple Effect from Plumbing Manufacturers International!

PMI Board of Directors President Martin Knieps explains why the industry must respond proactively to the effects of that have arrived at our doorsteps. PMI CEO/Executive Director Kerry Stackpole writes about how our industry uses artificial intelligence and other innovations to create the ultimate water-efficient products.

Would you like to join Martin, Kerry and other PMI leaders in influencing industry policy and making the world a better place? Serving in a volunteer leadership position with Plumbing Manufacturers International delivers a unique opportunity to do that and more. Learn more about what current board member Belinda Wise refers to as the “pride and purpose” of PMI leaders and apply for a position today!

This issue features more speakers who will present at the Oct. 24-27 PMI22 Manufacturing Success Conference — now less than two months away. Those choosing to participate in the Oct. 24 PMI Aspiring Leaders Program will learn about Muhammad Ali’s winning visualization technique — and how applying it can help you further your career. Registering for both will qualify you for the discounted registration bundle. Early bird registration lasts through Sept. 1. Also, by investing in a PMI22 sponsorship opportunity, PMI member companies can join PMI22 Gold Sponsors ICC-Evaluation Service and LIXIL and Silver Sponsors IAPMO, PHCP Pros and Contractor in showcasing products and services to influential plumbing manufacturing professionals.

In the PMI@Work column, learn about how new COVID guidelines place a focus on responsibility to ourselves and others. Also, read how the CHIPS and Science Act paves the way for important plumbing research.

We hope you enjoy the September 2022 Ripple Effect!

September 2022 September 2022 Download PDF View Full-Screen The Effects of Climate Change Have Arrived at Our Doorsteps By Martin Knieps, President, PMI Board of Directors, Viega The arctic is warming four times as fast as the rest of the planet, a new published scientific study reports. Verkhoyansk, a Russian tow...

Plumber Shortage Costing Economy Billions of Dollars

A new economic impact study, sponsored by LIXIL, suggests that the current shortage of will cost the United States economy about $33 billion in 2022. The study, conducted by John Dunham & Associates, estimates a shortage of 557,000 by 2027 will escalate the impact.

Troy Benavidez, leader of government relations and policy at LIXIL and co-chair of Plumbing Manufacturers International’s Advocacy/Government Affairs Committee, shared the study data with attendees of the virtual PMI Washington Legislative Forum in July.

“The shortage is not just our industry’s issue. Its impact on the overall economy is staggering. Consumers, industries and governments will continue to lose billions of dollars due to this labor gap,” Benavidez said. “Unfortunately, we’ve been talking about this issue for several years in our industry but not making any progress in resolving it. This will need collective intervention along with efforts by the government and private sector at large to move the needle.”

The economic impact study suggests that if only 4% of the needed 425,000 jobs are created in 2022 – about 17,000 positions – the U.S. economy could save a significant $1.27 billion. The economic ripples could potentially produce about 38,000 additional jobs across many industries – not just the plumbing industry – and create $1 billion in wages, $3 billion in new economic activity, and $242 million in federal revenues.

Read more in Plumbing Manufacturers International August Ripple Effect: https://bit.ly/3Q3cdC1

Section 301 Tariff Relief on Hold

Americans for Free Trade, a coalition that Plumbing Manufacturers International joined, continues to push for fully repealing Section 301 China – as economists, businesses and government try to hash out a solution.

The coalition’s “misery index” recently reported that the have cost manufacturers, businesses and consumers an estimated $129 billion since the levies were established in 2018, reported Jonathan Gold, vice president of supply chain and customs policy for the National Retail Federation, during his presentation at the virtual PMI Washington Legislative Forum in July. The NRF also is a member of the coalition.

Economists and others are calling for tariff relief to help address inflation. Repealing the tariffs or, at the very least, re-instating tariff exclusions that expired at the end of 2021 could help. “Tariff relief certainly is not a cure-all for inflation but will send a positive signal to industry and consumers that the administration is trying to take action,” he said.

Read more in Plumbing Manufacturers International August Ripple Effect: https://bit.ly/3QsbCcV

Providing Feedback on Packaging Legislation is Critical

As responsibility laws heat up, an expert suggested Plumbing Manufacturers International and its members should consider providing more feedback to lawmakers where possible – particularly in California, Colorado and Oregon.

“This is a critical time for industry to pay attention to these laws because we’re at a precipice right now with so much coming at us,” said Dan Felton, executive director of AMERIPEN – the American Institute for Packaging and the Environment – of which PMI is a member. “I would encourage you to understand the opportunities because I believe our fate is not fully sealed in these states yet.”

He shared an update on legislation and policy, including (EPR), content mandates and labeling, during the PMI Washington Legislative Forum in July. EPR shifts responsibility for funding package recycling from local governments and consumers to manufacturers.

Read more in Plumbing Manufacturers International August Ripple Effect: https://bit.ly/3zA2A6K

More Sponsors Step Up to Support Our Industry

Join PMI22 Gold Sponsors ICC-Evaluation Service and LIXIL, as well as Silver Sponsors IAPMO, PHCP Pros and Contractor, and step up to the plate to support your association and industry! Outstanding sponsorship opportunities are available at the Platinum, Gold, Silver and Event levels. https://bit.ly/3PPDLtB

Providing Feedback on Packaging Legislation is Critical

As responsibility laws heat up, an expert suggested Plumbing Manufacturers International and its members should consider providing more feedback to lawmakers where possible – particularly in California, Colorado and Oregon.

“This is a critical time for industry to pay attention to these laws because we’re at a precipice right now with so much coming at us,” said Dan Felton, during the recent PMI Legislative Forum. Felton is the executive director of AMERIPEN – the American Institute for Packaging and the Environment – of which PMI is a member. “I would encourage you to understand the opportunities because I believe our fate is not fully sealed in these states yet.”

He shared an update on legislation and policy, including (EPR), content mandates and labeling, during the PMI Washington Legislative Forum in July. EPR shifts responsibility for funding package recycling from local governments and consumers to manufacturers.

Read more in Plumbing Manufacturers International August Ripple Effect: https://bit.ly/3zA2A6K

PMI Team Connects with Policymakers at NCSL Summit

Plumbing Manufacturers International staff headed to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Legislative Summit in August to build vital relationships with state policymakers while sharing expertise on measures and products.

“This is one of many opportunities where PMI proactively engaged with policymakers and legislators to show how we’re part of the water-efficiency solution. We want them to know how innovative and forward-thinking our industry and members are – and how we can help them understand reasonable and responsible ways to save water while making things better for their citizens,” said PMI CEO/Executive Director Kerry Stackpole.

Taking a proactive approach on legislation affecting plumbing products and water efficiency has been a key part of PMI’s strategy. The PMI team met with legislators and their staffs to discuss how states can best address water efficiency and find ways to help citizens make good choices when replacing legacy plumbing fixtures with WaterSense products, Stackpole added.

Read more in Plumbing Manufacturers International August Ripple Effect: https://bit.ly/3QjBxDq

Aspiring Leaders to Learn How to Sustain High-Performing Teams

All employees of Plumbing Manufacturers International member companies wishing to sharpen their leadership skills are welcome to participate in the PMI Aspiring Leaders Program, “Developing and Leading High-Performing Teams,” Oct. 24 during the Manufacturing Success Conference.

Lisa Zangari of the Leadership Louisville Center will facilitate the program at the Muhammad Ali Center, dedicated to the life and legacy of “The Greatest."

The program will guide PMI member participants through an interactive session to learn about conscious leadership – which focuses on , the power of delegation as a development tool, and leadership style preferences. A segment on collaboration will delve into role modeling and how to equip a team with problem-solving language and tools. Tips on the importance of celebration will cover how to consistently recognize and show gratitude for teams and individuals and take time to celebrate key milestones.

Read more in Plumbing Manufacturers International August Ripple Effect: https://bit.ly/3QeQJ54
Register and receive a discounted registration bundle for the program and the conference at https://bit.ly/3RI4F8R

Attend PMI22 in Louisville, Hit a Home Run

The Manufacturing Success Conference will deliver an exciting line-up of and related industry major leaguers sure to help attendees hit a home run in learning and networking. Taking place from Oct. 24-27 in Louisville with a special event planned at the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, will explore thought-provoking topics covering sustainable practices to conserve water and energy, approaches and theories, homebuilding digital services, and more.

Up to bat as keynote speakers will be Andrew Winston and Chad Pregracke.
Winston, a globally recognized expert on megatrends and how to build companies that thrive by serving the world, is the co-author of “Net Positive: How Courageous Companies Thrive by Giving More than They Take.” Pregracke, founder of the nonprofit river cleanup organization Living Lands & Waters, and his team have organized and led over 1,000 community cleanups on 23 rivers in 20 states, removing over 10 million pounds of garbage.

Other speakers joining the line-up include Treavor Boyer, a professor in the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment at Arizona State University, who will discuss urine diversion as a more sustainable alternative to conventional wastewater management; Tim Costello, chairman and CEO of Builder Homesite Inc., who will share the latest on digital transformations in homebuilding; Adam Gordon, founder and managing partner of the Bristol Group, who will present on the status of Section 301 tariffs; and Mahesh Gupta, a professor in the Department of Information Systems, Analytics and Operations at the University of Louisville, who will examine the theory of constraints in manufacturing.

Read more in Plumbing Manufacturers International’s August Ripple Effect: https://bit.ly/3pdYPPK. Register for at https://bit.ly/3RI4F8R

Attend PMI22 in Louisville, Hit a Home Run - Issuu The PMI22 Manufacturing Success Conference will deliver an exciting lineup of plumbing and related industry major leaguers sure to help attendees hit a home run in learning and networking. Taking place from Oct. 24-27 in Louisville with a special event planned at the Louisville Slugger Museum and Fa...

In the August Ripple Effect, Plumbing Manufacturers International CEO/Executive Director Kerry Stackpole writes about the importance building of broad coalition of creative innovators with the shared goal of .

"All creative, water-efficient solutions need only one thing – consumers and commercial property owners to adopt them. In new construction and some remodeling, current-day plumbing codes and standards most likely require the installation of the latest water-efficient fittings and fixtures. Still, there are millions of homes and commercial buildings with legacy plumbing fixtures and fittings that if replaced would create immediate and significant water and energy savings for homeowners, commercial property owners, and municipalities around the country."

Read more: https://bit.ly/3QlmCZI

Using Creative Ideation to Develop a Sustainable Future - Issuu The spirited, innovative, and Grammy award-winning musician Herbie Hancock noted that “globalization means we have to re-examine some of our ideas, and look at ideas from other countries, from other cultures, and open ourselves to them and that’s not comfortable for the average person.” He’s...