Addison Witt is a talent manager and producer. He has starred in three Network TV series. In the US it was "Off the Leash", in the UK, "Top Dog Model", and Canada, "Reality Obsessed." Other reality series include "New York Goes to Hollywood", and "Swedish Wives of Hollywood". He served on the Board of Directors for the Burbank International Film Festival in 2012, both as the directors of marketing and public relations. And concurrently starred in Top Dog Model, in 2012. Addison is an award winning producer and director, stage actor, commercial actor, equal rights advocate, mentor, and noted talent manager. His list of clients have been recognized as award nominees and winners by; Emmy, Golden Globe, BAFTA, GOYA, TCA, People's Choice, Peabody, and SAG/AFTRA. Addison Witt's humanity has taken him around the world speaking out on various causes that involve disabilities, bullying, and greater diversity and equality in Hollywood's entertainment industry. His charity has included a spokesperson position with NDI (National Disability Institute), PACER (National Center for Bullying Prevention), I AM PWD (Performers with Disabilities), UCP (United Cerebral Palsy), Stand Up2 Cancer, Autism Speaks, End Malaria Now, and many others.
Empowering Educators Through Advocacy with Cathy Fleischer
In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks with Cathy Fleischer about the importance of advocacy in education. They discuss Cathy's journey into advocacy, the playbook she developed for empowering educators, and the current threats facing public schools. The conversation emphasizes the need for teachers to reclaim their voices and take small, actionable steps towards advocacy, highlighting the power of community and collaboration.
In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt engages in a profound conversation with Reverend Amos J. Disasa about the urgent issues of mental health, suicide, and the importance of community support. They explore the concept of covenant in relationships, the hidden struggles many face, and the role of friendship in combating loneliness and despair. The discussion emphasizes the need for authentic connections and the responsibility we have to support one another in times of crisis, particularly in a world that often feels disconnected and overwhelming.
The Power of Questions: Independent Thinking and Civic Renewal with Conor Broll
In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt is joined today by writer and historian Conor Broll. Their conversation delves into the growing concerns of political radicalization and polarization, exploring how these dynamics threaten liberal values and the rule of law. Conor emphasizes the risks posed by both sides of the political spectrum and the implications for democracy's future.
Defense of Democracy Podcast Ian Rosenberg | Navigating the Challenges of Free Speech Today
In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt engages with Ian Rosenberg, a First Amendment lawyer and author, to discuss the current challenges facing free speech in America. They explore the importance of understanding free speech rights, the impact of censorship in schools, and the evolving nature of these rights in a democratic society. Ian shares insights from his book, the Free Speech Handbook, which aims to make complex legal concepts accessible to the public. The conversation emphasizes the need for grassroots activism and the role of individuals in defending democracy and free expression.
In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks with Dr. Christine Emeran, Director of the Youth Free Expression Program at the National Coalition Against Censorship. They discuss the importance of youth activism, the role of protests in democracy, and the mission of the NCAC in empowering young voices. Christine shares insights on how young people are leading movements for social change, the significance of understanding and defending First Amendment rights, and the impact of book banning on democracy. The conversation highlights the resilience and creativity of youth in advocating for their rights and the importance of fostering critical thinking and engagement in education.
In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt engages with Ashley Hope Perez, a scholar and advocate for readers' rights. They discuss the significance of literature as a lifeline for diverse voices, the impact of censorship on education and representation, and the role of educators in defending access to literature. Perez shares insights from her books, including 'Out of Darkness' and 'Band Together: Our Fight for Readers' Rights,' emphasizing the importance of advocacy and community in the face of book bans. The conversation highlights the need for a collective effort to ensure freedom to read and the transformative power of literature in fostering understanding and empathy.
All Are Welcome: The Art of Peaceful Protest in America with Olivia Negron
Addison K. Witt (Poet Laureate of Defense of Democracy) sits down with actress and activist Olivia Negron to explore the art of peaceful protest, identity, empathy, and storytelling as acts of civic courage. Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of art and democracy. Learn more: siraddisonwitt.com | Substack: siraddisonwitt.substack.com
Defending the Freedom to Read — A Conversation with Sabrina Baêta of PEN America
In this episode of Rise with Defense of Democracy, host Addison K. Witt, Poet Laureate of Defense of Democracy, sits down with Sabrina Baêta, Senior Program Manager of PEN America’s Freedom to Read initiative.
Sabrina shares how book bans are reshaping classrooms and libraries across America—and why this movement isn’t just about literature, but about democracy itself. Together, Addison and Sabrina explore the power of reading as resistance, the personal impact of censorship, and the hope that fuels those fighting to protect access to diverse stories.
This is a heartfelt conversation about courage, community, and the vital role that young readers, educators, and advocates play in defending intellectual freedom.
In this episode of Rise with Defense of Democracy, host Addison K. Witt sits down with acclaimed children’s and young-adult author Maggie Tokuda-Hall to explore the vital role of storytelling in defending democracy. Maggie shares how her family’s history, her creative path, and her resistance to censorship converge in her work. They discuss the rise of book bans in U.S. schools and libraries, the emotional weight of writing for young readers, and why the freedom to imagine—and read—matters now more than ever.
Together, they explore how literature can become a form of protest when voices are silenced, and how one book can open new worlds for readers from every background. By the end of their conversation, listeners will be inspired to see reading not merely as a pastime but as a courageous act of creative survival and civic engagement.
Defending Democracy from the Top: A Conversation with Dr. Charles Prince
In this episode of the Defense of Democracy Podcast, host Addison K. Witt, Poet Laureate of the Defense of Democracy, sits down with Dr. Charles Prince for a powerful conversation about the urgent fight to protect public education and the freedom to read.
Dr. Prince brings decades of experience as an educator and advocate for democratic values, sharing insights into the challenges facing schools today, from book bans to political interference, and the role communities can play in pushing back.
Together, we explore what’s at stake for our students, our educators, and our democracy itself - and how we can each take action to ensure that public education remains a cornerstone of freedom and opportunity.
🎧 Watch the full episode here: YouTube Link📢 Learn more and get involved at defenseofdemocracy.org.
Defense of Democracy Podcast Ayaan Moledina: Dear friends and changemakers, I’m thrilled to announce that the latest episode of the Defense of Democracy Podcast is now live — featuring an extraordinary conversation with Ayaan Moledina.Ayaan is the Federal Policy Director at Students Engaged in Advancing Texas (SEAT), an Executive Council Member at Team ENOUGH, and a Teen Advisory Board Member at This Is My Brave, Inc. His leadership and vision at such a young age have already made him a standout voice in the national conversation on education, mental health, and democracy. In this episode, we dive deep into: Texas politics through the lens of youth leadershipAyaan’s remarkable advocacy journey, and policy work. His bold political ambitions and the future he envisions for Texas and beyond. This isn’t just a dialogue — it’s a glimpse into a rising generation of leaders who are reshaping democracy from the inside out. Listen now: Please share widely with youth organizations, educators, Texas voters, and fellow changemakers.Thank you for walking with us in this movement. Together, we defend democracy — one conversation at a time. With appreciation, Sir Addison WittPoet Laureate & Host, Defense of Democracy Podcast
I’m honored to step into my new role as the newest host of the Defense of Democracy Podcast, a national platform dedicated to exploring the evolving landscape of education and democracy in America.
Our conversations will go beyond identifying the problems—we’ll focus on amplifying voices that bring solutions. While we may not always agree on how we got here, one truth is undeniable: we are at a critical crossroads. If we cannot find common ground, we risk dismantling rather than rebuilding the very fabric of our nation.
Join me as I speak with leaders, advocates, and changemakers who are working to connect, educate, and inspire. My introduction interview drops today—don’t miss it!
BREAKING: I’ve been named the first-ever Poet Laureate of Defense of Democracy.
It is my deepest honor to take this role at a time when words matter more than ever.
As an actor, activist, and lifelong lover of language, I have always believed that poetry can move mountains where politics cannot. That language, when spoken with clarity and courage, can heal, confront, awaken, and restore.
This is only the beginning.
Book signings
National podcast
Poems that provoke and protect
🇺🇸 Truth spoken like thunder
More to come. But today, I simply say:
I accept this appointment with gratitude. With clarity. With purpose.
— Sir Addison Witt
Poet Laureate, Defense of Democracy
🖥️ www.SirAddisonWitt.com
📧 [email protected]
#PoetLaureate #DefenseOfDemocracy #SirAddisonWitt #SpokenWord #RadicalClarity
Are you passionate about the fight to protect democracy? Does your documentary shine a light on the challenges, threats, and truths facing our democratic values today?
This is your moment.
The Defense of Democracy Film Festival (DDFF) is now accepting submissions for feature-length and short documentary films that inform, inspire, and ignite action.
⏰ The submission deadline is fast approaching!
📅 Early Bird Deadline: April 15, 2025
📅 Final Deadline: May 1, 2025
Join filmmakers and changemakers from around the country in this unique, hybrid festival experience — with both online screenings and in-person events in communities nationwide.
🔗 Submit your film now: https://sites.google.com/view/dofdfilmfestival2025/submit-your-film?authuser=0
We can’t wait to amplify your voice and your vision.
Addison K. Witt
Chair, Defense of Democracy Film Festival
I STAND WITH THE SOUL OF AMERICA: A belief in the possibility of betterment, justice, and human potential - Kindle edition by WITT, ADDISON . Literature & Fiction Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.
