National Gratitude

Mission

On paper, National Gratitude is my initiative dedicated to helping citizens navigate the crazy political age we’re in. “To sharpen the citizenry,” might appropriately summarize it.

Off paper? It is basically one long-winded conversation between you, me, and the rest of the weary world (whether they listen or not.)

I am Aaron, by the way. Probably should have led with that.

Please feel free to have a look around, connect with me on socials, or join me for a pint should our paths cross.

About.

I am a former U.S. Navy officer turned writer. I (almost) have my Master’s in Global Security, have immigrated to Brisbane, Australia, and now am something of an accidental globetrotter. My professional life centers on understanding and exposing the everyday forces that erode democratic stability, with an emphasis on the individual citizen.

I should also include this disclaimer: I am from Florida—born and raised—so you must take into account the eccentricities this will cause at times. It should be a surprise to no one that living in Australia has not had a dampening effect on the strength of the Florida Man within. However, the institution of marriage has.

New Book January '26

National Gratitude is a group of seventy-four reflections exploring the psychocultural challenges facing modern citizens. Aaron Brown examines the new and old trends reshaping the way citizens think, feel, and engage in the public square.

(Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble)

 Common Qs

  • All roads lead to Substack and Instagram. (Links located at the top of page)

    @nationalgratitude

  • Progressive when it makes sense; conservative when it makes sense.

  • I love social psychology. Anything on public opinion and crowd behavior fascinates me. Public Opinion by Walter Lippmann, The True Believer by Eric Hoffer, and Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville have all had profound impact on my worldview.

  • To find rare and valuable information, then synthesize and present it for public good.