Faith Over Fear: Governor Wes Moore on Service, Patriotism & Moral Leadership

Realm

August 27, 2026

Show Notes

Discussion about service, patriotism, faith, leadership, technology, and the responsibility to leave no one behind.

Governor Moore explains why "service saved me," beginning with the mentors, teachers, coaches, ministers, aunties, and uncles who saw his potential before he could see it himself. He reflects on losing his father at age three, wearing handcuffs by eleven, being sent to military school, and eventually discovering that leadership is not about individual achievement. It is about lifting as we climb.

The conversation then turns to the meaning of American patriotism. Governor Moore draws a sharp distinction between patriotism and nationalism, arguing that faith, not fear, is the foundation of a more perfect union. He and Mick also discuss Maryland's public-safety progress, service-year opportunities, apprenticeships, cannabis pardons, energy affordability, AI, data-center accountability, and why technological progress must include guardrails and public trust.

IN THIS EPISODE

Mick’s most important conversation

Governor Moore’s “Because”: service saved me

Running away from military school

The Unplugged Truth: a speech that moved Mick’s family

Faith, fear, patriotism, and nationalism

God’s grace and moral leadership

Hot Takes: Maryland’s progress through collaboration

Energy affordability, AI, and data-center guardrails

The Room: you belong because the room needs you

The Unplugged Five and a legacy of compassion

FEATURED SPEECH