This week, S.E. considers the holiday weekend and the 250th Anniversary of America. In light of a new Gallup poll — and just, you know, being an American recently — it's clear we're all feeling a little meh about patriotism. It can feel divisive, even toxic, and apparently at a record low across the spectrum. But there have been glimpses of feel-good Americana as seen through the lens of the World Cup visitors who seem, again and again, tickled by our food, our stadiums, and our general warm-hug energy. Go us!  Also in the interest of two things being true, producer Lauren talks about a new project called  250 American Promises - a national letter-writing campaign that considers how can we both celebrate America and ask it to do better.  And stay tuned for an insightful conversation with author and political scientist Kirby Goidel about how Trump not only reshaped the Republican Party, but also the entire political system. 

If you have any thoughts about coffee, the news, or mental health, reach out to us at offthecupp@gmail.com, and your message could be read on a future show!