I don’t think I ever said I thought it would be easy. Or fast.
But to answer your question directly only 34 states - not 38 as you presume - are required to call a Convention (2/3 of 50), so here goes: Nevada, Colorado, Iowa, Michigan, Ohio, Florida, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Virginia, and Pennsylvania would do it. There could be more, as the move gains momentum, states will not want to be left out of the process.
In the convention itself, each state has one vote, so the 24 red states are well positioned to combine with several “purple” states to have a dominant influence on the outcome.
Ultimate ratification of any proposed amendments by 3/4 of the states is a different issue and will take place in a radically different political environment from today. That bridge will be crossed much later.
Reading everything else in your post, I don't see where we are in disagreement, as all of my cautions apply to acting too hastily, and I've even stated that a cataclysmic event is likely required.