The Downsides of Upward Mobility: An In-Depth Conversation with a Writer You Should Know

You know the trope from countless movies and books—and maybe you even lived it:

The talented, ambitious young person eager to escape hometown life and make it big out in the world.

Gracy Olmstead knows that story well.

Born and raised in a small Idaho farm town, she now lives outside of Washington, D.C., where she has built a career as an acclaimed journalist and author.

Olmstead is far from alone, of course. But she stands out for the insights she offers on the experience—and especially its costs.

You’ll hear those insights in this live episode of Conservative Conversations with ISI.

On Thursday, May 6, at 7 pm ET, hear Gracy Olmstead talk with Johnny Burtka and James Davenport about her new book, Uprooted: Recovering the Legacy of the Places We’ve Left Behind.

The American Spectator hails Uprooted as “an indispensable guide for those who are wrestling with their place in an increasingly rootless world.” National Review calls it a “beautiful book.”

And you’ll see why when you tune in to this conversation.

Olmstead, who is often compared to Wendell Berry, will discuss:

• What “rootedness” means in a rootless world
• How to resist the dangerous temptation of nostalgia
• What we sacrifice for profit and “progress”
• Why efficiency and low consumer prices aren’t the only values worth defending
• . . . and much more!

Because this is a live episode, you’ll be able to submit your own questions in real time.

So reserve your spot now!