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Holding to our own convictions while also staying genuinely curious about the convictions of others -- it's the goal of a new council that was just announced by the group Braver Angels. This advisory council features 23 leaders who disagree on many things, but still find ways to find common ground. This includes Governor Spencer Cox, several Deseret News contributors, and the director of BYU's Wheatley Institute, Paul Edwards. He joins the show to talk more about this new initiative.
Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply) Brian Vogt spent 20-plus years strengthening democracy around the world. Then he came home—and started listening. His Democracy Listening Tour of Red America is a qualitative research project with a simple but radical premise: before you can reform anything, you have to understand what people actually believe and why.In this conversation, Brian and Wilk dig into what “democracy” really means to everyday Americans, why that word lands so differently depending on who's hearing it, and what the reform community gets wrong by skipping the listening step altogether.One story stands out: a Trump-voting Iraq veteran and community leader in Kentucky who defined democracy as equality—then shared a workplace experience that made him feel like anything but an equal. It's the kind of story that doesn't make headlines but shapes how millions of people relate to political institutions.If you believe that lasting change requires all voices at the table, this episode is for you. Learn more about and connect with Brian Vogt by getting the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com. The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you've got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/ContactThe Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America's largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.orgWelcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.
Today on The Gist, the race to stop a catastrophic chemical explosion next to Disneyland that forced 50,000 Southern California residents to evacuate. Then, Beth Malow and Doug Teschner discuss their book, Beyond the Politics of Contempt: Practical Steps to Build Positive Relationships in Divided Times, sharing strategies from their work with Braver Angels to foster local, cross-partisan dialogue. Finally, the limits of one-on-one interventions in a polarized mass-media landscape, highlighting why the path out of systemic political contempt relies on free and fair elections rather than curated elite civility. Produced by Corey Wara Video and Social Media by Geoff Craig Do you have questions or comments, or just want to say hello? Email us at thegist@mikepesca.com For full Pesca content and updates, check out our website at https://www.mikepesca.com/ For ad-free content or to become a Pesca Plus subscriber, check out https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/ For Mike's daily takes on Substack, subscribe to The Gist List https://mikepesca.substack.com/ Follow us on Social Media: YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4_bh0wHgk2YfpKf4rg40_g Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pescagist/ X https://x.com/pescami TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@pescagist To advertise on the show, contact sales@amplitudemediapartners.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
A historically Black cemetery in Palmetto may have been vandalized months ago, but efforts to make the city aware of it went nowhere.Next: Developers are pushing a massive data center project in rural DeSoto County. Will the pushback stop it?Next: A Bradenton museum exhibition celebrates the history of Latino involvement in baseball and American culture.Next: We are continuing our profiles of local candidates. Today: Megan Tennimon, who is running for Sarasota School Board.Finally: A conscious listening effort in Manatee County brought together both sides of the aisle.
One week before America celebrates its 250th birthday, Braver Angels will hold its annual convention in Philadelphia, the city where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776.More than one thousand citizen delegates— Blues, Reds, and Independents— will be in the same place together over four days, June 25-28. They will honor the final words of the Declaration's authors: “we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.”In Philadelphia “we will figure out how to renew that pledge to strengthen our civic bonds together,” says podcast guest, Convention Director Mark Metzger. “The theme is 1776-2026, a pledge renewed. We're looking at what that pledge meant… at the start of the new nation, and what it means to us today.”America's 250th anniversary focuses national attention on who we are as a nation, and who we hope to become. The Braver Angels Convention will play an active and engaging role in this national endeavor. The Declaration was not only a statement of independence from Great Britain, it was also a declaration of dependence on one another. Debates will be held, speeches made, workshops organized, music played, and films shown at this convention. This episode also discusses the meaning and goals of courageous citizenship.“True interdependence insists that rural conservatives and urban progressives, religious and secular citizens, activists and traditionalists do not have to agree in order to remain bound together,” says Jeff Thiemann of the Braver Angels Leadership Team. “It affirms that every group brings dignity and distinct experiences, and that our shared future depends on facing common challenges together.”Mark Metzger joined Braver Angels in 2022. In 2023, he oversaw operations and logistics for the Braver Angels National Convention in Gettysburg, PA, led the arts initiatives Four Score: A Memory Play and Braver Lens: Amateur Photography to Heal American Divides, and managed day-to-day operations of the National office. "How Do We Fix It?" reports on the people, projects and ideas of Braver Angels, the nation's largest volunteer-led grassroots organization devoted the healing civic divides. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
National ambassador for Braver Angels, leading figure in the American depolarization movement, and host of The Reconstruction Project on KBLA Talk 1580, John Wood joins Tavis in studio to talk about how neutral maps could empower Black voters, the future of the Black GOP, and other trending political topics.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.
The nation has been shaken by violence yet again. The assassination attempt at the White House Correspondents Dinner was another jarring tear in the fabric of our public life. Every day Americans also hear divisive, angry, rhetoric from national political leaders and media pundits. On "How Do We Fix It? we discuss how growing numbers of Americans are pushing back against toxic divides. We report on the work of Braver Angels: The national movement that brings reds and blues together in the same room. This episode with Reena Bernards and Casey Jorgensen covers the Braver Angels Mobile Summit in Utah, a traveling conference where practical steps were taken to build bridges and cross divides.Volunteers drove an RV across Utah, and also ran in-person events where red and blue citizens worked together on polarizing issues such as immigration. Two mobile summits in late 2025, and again in the spring of this year, featured workshops, debates and dialog. The aim was to depolarize communities and strengthen civic engagement. "It was a wonderful experience," says Reena. "We became like a family."At the immigration workshop, which included equal numbers of conservatives and liberals, there was agreement on the need to secure the border and having a path to legalization for undocumented immigrants who'd lived and worked in the U.S. for a long time, contributed to society, paid taxes, and had not done anything illegal.Going into that workshop "I think people were thinking we'd be lucky to come up with one or two points of agreement," says Casey. "To have a list of over a dozen was really exciting."See more about the Braver Angels Utah mobile summit here.Casey Jorgensen is Braver Angels' National Strategic Projects and Event Coordinator, and volunteers as the Red Mountain Region Co-Lead. Originally from Boise, Idaho, she and her husband, Dean (from Alberta, Canada) as well as their three grown children, and two more by marriage, live in Utah. She's also the unbiased grandmother of two perfect grandchildren. Casey is President/Chair of Patriot Camps of America, a Utah Higher Education Inclusion Alliance Board Member, and has served as a GOP Precinct Chair and Delegate. She enjoys live theater, is a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and feels honored to work with true Braver Angels.Reena Bernards leans Blue. As a volunteer Braver Angels moderator, she created the Common Ground Workshop, which brings together conservatives and liberals for constructive dialogue on a single issue. She was the Project Lead for Braver Angels Trustworthy Elections Campaign. Reena is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, in private practice in Maryland, Virginia and Washington D.C. Reena lives with her husband Tom Smerling, also a Braver Angels moderator, in Takoma Park Maryland. They are pleased that their 2 adult children live nearby. Reena greatly enjoys being part of a performing dance group, The Chalice Dancers . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The New Counterculture of ConversationIn a world where political labels have become shields and social media is a minefield of "rhetorical grenades," Monica Guzman argues that the most radical act you can perform is to stay curious. As the Senior Fellow for Public Practice at Braver Angels, Monica has seen firsthand how fear has become the "archvillain" of American discourse.In this episode, we dismantle the failing left-right paradigm and explore why bridge-building isn't about being "nice" or "middle-of-the-road"—it's about having the courage to withstand intense disagreement without losing your convictions.Text me your feedback and leave your contact info if you'd like a reply (this is a one-way text). Thanks, DavidSupport the showShow Notes:https://outrageoverload.net/ Contact me, David Beckemeyer by email outrageoverload@gmail.com. Follow the show on Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload. Check out our Subtstack https://outrageoverload.substack.comHOTLINE: 925-552-7885Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the O2 hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episodeIf you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That's the best way to support it.Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverloadAlso check out our companion podcasts, This Week in Outrage and Outrage Science Bites.Intro music and outro music by Michael Ramir C.Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.Outrage Overload, a Conners Institute podcast, is part of The Democr...
On this pod Dominique and John mix it up across the aisle on national and international issues. Is the Pope's job to speak up against injustice? Why are so many conservatives converting to Catholicism? What happened with for Virginia Lt. Governor Justin Fairfax? How do we find inner peace? John Wood Jr. is a national leader for Braver Angels, a former nominee for congress, former Vice-Chairman of the Republican Party of Los Angeles County, musical artist and a USA Today columnist with his first book, Transcending Politics, slated for publication in the Fall of 2026 https://www.instagram.com/braverangels/ https://www.instagram.com/johnrwoodjr/ https://www.instagram.com/diprimaradio/ https://peoplesbudgetla.com/
On this pod Dominique and John mix it up across the aisle on national and international issues. Is the Pope's job to speak up against injustice? Why are so many conservatives converting to Catholicism? What happened with for Virginia Lt. Governor Justin Fairfax? How do we find inner peace? John Wood Jr. is a national leader for Braver Angels, a former nominee for congress, former Vice-Chairman of the Republican Party of Los Angeles County, musical artist and a USA Today columnist with his first book, Transcending Politics, slated for publication in the Fall of 2026https://www.instagram.com/braverangels/ https://www.instagram.com/johnrwoodjr/ https://www.instagram.com/diprimaradio/ https://peoplesbudgetla.com/
Have you ever left a conversation thinking, “They didn't hear me at all”? Journalist and author Mónica Guzmán shares stories from her own life, from not fully listening to her daughter, to navigating emotional disagreements with her mom, to setting intentional conversations with people who see the world differently. She unpacks what's really going on in our heads when we stop listening and how small shifts can completely change the way we connect, especially with our loved ones. ABOUT GUEST Mónica Guzmán is the author of “I Never Thought of It That Way,” an advisor with Braver Angels, and the founder of Reclaim Curiosity (https://linktr.ee/moniguzman). Check Mónica out on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/moniguzman/ CHAPTERS (0:00) Introduction (1:31) Mónica's Call with Mom (3:35) What She Needed from Mom (4:47) Acknowledge Good Points (5:37) Three Conversations at Once (7:03) Spanish at Home Lesson (9:24) Critical Listening Trap (10:34) Repairing Missed Moments (12:36) Scheduling Disagreement Talks (15:15) Wrap Up and Resources
On April 9, BigTentUSA convened a timely conversation featuring Randy Freeman and Michael Asbury of Braver Angels NYC, the nation's largest cross-partisan volunteer movement working to bridge America's political divide. Moderated by Jess Piper, Executive Director of Blue Missouri, the trio explored how Americans can better navigate political differences. Drawing on lived experiences, Jess noted a shift in her rural Missouri community, where some previously loyal MAGA voters are beginning to question the Trump Administration as policies more directly affect their daily lives.Speakers shared practical techniques for engaging across divides, grounded in real-world examples of communities working through deep disagreement. A central theme was focusing on what individuals can control: their own mindset, how they listen, and how they communicate. Participants were encouraged to approach conversations with curiosity, while also recognizing when it's more productive to disengage from those unwilling to listen. The discussion emphasized that this work unfolds over time, positioning the Braver Angels approach as a long-term investment in rebuilding trust and strengthening civic dialogue.Check out BigTent's conversational talking points:https://bigtentusa.org/talking-points-2026/Learn more about Braver Angels:https://braverangels.org/ Learn more about Blue Missouri and explore Piper's newsletter “The View from Rural Missouri”: https://bluemissouri.org/https://jesspiper.substack.com/ABOUT THE SPEAKERS:Jess Piper is a mother to five and grandmother to three and lives on a small farm on the Missouri/Iowa border. She was born and raised in rural America. She was an American Literature teacher for 16 years. After the 2016 election of Trump, Jess became politically active. Jess ran for office in 2022 for State Representative in HD1 in Northwest Missouri. Jess writes a well known newsletter: "The View from Rural Missouri"Randy Freeman is a retired psychotherapist and couples therapist who joined Braver Angels in 2017 because she was upset about the political divisiveness. She is presently the New York State Coordinator, an Ambassador and a moderator for the organization. Randy sees this as a continuation of her work as a couples therapist and sees her role as a therapist for the country.Michael Asbury is the Co-Chair of the Capital Region of NY State Alliance of Braver Angels since 2020, one of over 125 such local Alliances across the USA. Serving with a Co-Chair of the opposite political persuasion, he guides the local mission of Braver Angels to bring Americans together by bridging the partisan divide to strengthen our democratic republic, and by seeking common ground where none was formerly known. Braver Angels works with all those answering the call for civic renewal. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bigtentnews.substack.com
Welcome to another episode of the Peaceful Political Revolution in America podcast.In this episode, I will be exploring one of the most important and timely questions facing our country today: What would it look like if Americans were to rethink the Constitution?For a long time, the thought of holding a constitutional convention has been dismissed by most Americans, something debated by historians and legal scholars, perhaps, but rarely engaged in by ordinary citizens. Recently, that conversation has begun to emerge. Across the country, citizens are asking deeper questions about whether the political system we inherited is capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st century. Stephanie Lindquist serves as the Nickerson Dean and professor of law at Washington University School of Law. She is also the founder of the Model Constitutional Convention. In May 2026, in St. Louis, this groundbreaking initiative will bring together participants from more than 80 universities across the country. Modeled on the Article 5 process of the US Constitution, the convention is designed to simulate national deliberations over our most basic law. Beyond these deliberations, there is a growing national conversation concerning real-world constitutional reform. Organizations like Unify USA, Braver Angels, Better Together America, CELDF, Alliance for Democracy, Citizens Take Action, and many more are drafting their own amendments, forming their own citizen assemblies, and considering the possibility of calling for a popular national convention. Thomas Jefferson once suggested that each generation should have the opportunity to reconsider the constitutional framework under which it lives. If that is true, this moment may represent an opportunity, especially for younger generations, to help shape what comes next. The Model Constitutional Convention is an attempt to explore these questions in a serious, thoughtful, and constructive way. In this conversation, Stephanie Lindquist explains how the project began, how delegates will develop their proposals, what kinds of ideas are emerging, and how everyday Americans can follow along.Stefanie, it's a pleasure to have you on the Peaceful Political Revolution in America podcast. Welcome to the conversation.
Right now is a really difficult time to convince Americans to come together and listen to the other side. How can we be hopeful at a time of so much anger, division, violence and despair when our political leaders speak with such venom about their opponents?“What we're doing now is sorting into our tribes and silos,” says our guest Maryanne Colter, state coordinator for Braver Angels of Illinois. With curiosity and humility she works to physically bring people of opposing views together in the same room. “This is where the magic happens, when we can sit across the table and treat people as human beings.”Here we learn about different types of Braver Angels workshops and how they often surprise and change the perspectives of those who take part. “That's what brings me hope,” Maryanne tells us.“How Do We Fix It?” podcasts report on the people, projects, and ideas of Braver Angels, the national movement that pushes back against toxic polarization and brings reds, blues and independents together to find common ground and gain respect for different points of view. In their workshops, debates, and online events, Braver Angels explores how we can disagree better and choose connection over domination.In this episode we include extracts from a public television documentary by WTTW Chicago about the work of Braver Angels of Illinois. We hear what happened when blue-leaning members of Braver Angels spent an evening with Chicago Young Republicans last September, right after Charlie Kirk was murdered.Maryanne Colter has been a volunteer with Braver Angels since 2019. She has Moderated dozens of Braver Angels Workshops and took on the role of State Coordinator for Illinois in December of 2024. Maryanne recently retired after a long career in Project Management and Organizational Change Consulting. Learn more about previous episodes of How Do We Fix It? here. Please rate and review our podcasts wherever you listen to digital audio. Braver Angels holds events almost every day in towns and cities across the country. Explore its mission and work here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mónica Guzmán is a journalist who couldn't even have an honest conversation with her own parents about politics — and she turned that painful personal failure into a methodology that works in boardrooms, courtrooms, and living rooms. Mónica is a bridge-builder journalist, Senior Fellow at Braver Angels, host of A Braver Way podcast, and bestselling author of I Never Thought of It That Way. In this episode, she breaks down the neurological and psychological forces that shut down curiosity at the exact moment you need it most — and gives you a practical framework to stay grounded when every instinct tells you to run, fight, freeze, or fold. Connect with Mónica Guzmán Website / Braver Angels: braveerangels.us Podcast: A Braver Way — available wherever you listen Book: I Never Thought of It That Way Contact ANI Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn negotiateanything.com Click here to buy your copy of Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life! Resources Mentioned Book: I Never Thought of It That Way — Monica Guzman Book: How Minds Change — David McRaney Book: We Were Made for These Times — Lingo (Black Buddhist nun) Book: American Covenant — Yuval Levin Podcast: A Braver Way with Monica Guzman Concept: Conflict Resilience (CQ) — Bob Bardone [00:21:52] Research: Receptive Language — Julia Minson, Harvard Business School [00:14:00]
Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply) Doug Teschner and Beth Malow return to Derate the Hate for a catch-up conversation following the release of their book, Beyond the Politics of Contempt: Practical Steps to Build Positive Relationships in Divided Times. The book has sold over a thousand copies, earned a Literary Titan Award, and is drawing audiences from across the political spectrum — including some surprising reception from high-profile conservative media.In this episode, Doug and Beth dig into the "black pill" mindset — the growing sense that division is too far gone to fix — and push back on it with both evidence and personal stories. They talk about "conflict entrepreneurs," the people and forces that profit from keeping us at each other's throats, and why most of us have far more in common than the news cycle suggests.Beth shares a candid story about a series of conversations with a Christian conservative friend in Nashville — one that started over guns and eventually moved into abortion — that shows what courageous listening actually looks like in practice. And both guests make the case that protesting and bridge building aren't opposites. You can hold strong convictions and still make room to understand someone else's.Learn more about and connect with Beth & Doug by getting the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com. The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you've got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/ContactThe Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America's largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.orgWelcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.
The Spark, hosted by Asia Tabb, will feature a 40‑minute conversation presented in two informal, discussion‑focused segments centered on the theme of learning how to disagree more constructively. In the first half, Asia is joined by Nita Landis, moderator of the Skills for Disagreeing Better workshop, and Dr. Jonathan Woodall, Assistant Teaching Professor of Communication at Penn State Harrisburg. Their conversation explores the value of sharing perspectives, listening with intention, and being open to learning practical skills that help people navigate disagreement in healthier, more productive ways. Drawing from the workshop's core ideas, they reflect on why these skills matter in classrooms, communities, and everyday conversations. In the second half, Michael Lippert, president of the Young Americans for Freedom student club, and Elijah Espaillat, co‑founder of the Capital College Democrats Club, join Asia to discuss their personal takeaways from the workshop. They share what motivated them to participate, how the skills resonated with their own experiences across political differences, and why they believe others—especially students—can benefit from learning how to disagree with respect and understanding.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He drove a truck across America listening to talk radio. Somewhere between 9/11, the Obama years, and a long personal reckoning with his own anger, Wilk Wilkinson became one of the most unlikely figures in the depolarization movement: a committed conservative who believes the two-party system is tearing the country apart, and who is doing something about it. Wilk is the Director of Media Systems and Operations for Braver Angels, the nation's largest cross-partisan, volunteer-led movement to bridge the partisan divide. He also hosts the podcast Derate the Hate. In this conversation, Wilk traces his political awakening from post-9/11 talk radio to becoming radicalized by the polarization he once participated in, and why he eventually chose the harder path. He and Corey dig into tribalism, political identity, January 6th, immigration enforcement, the two-party doom loop, and what it actually takes to stay in conversation across real disagreement. Calls to Action ✅ If this conversation resonates, consider sharing it with someone who believes connection across difference still matters. ✅ Subscribe to Corey's Substack: coreysnathan.substack.com ✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen: ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics ✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform. ✅ Watch the full conversation and subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion Key Takeaways Political identity has become personal identity, and that's the root of the problem. Wilk argues that the single most destructive shift in American civic life is that people now treat political attacks as personal attacks. When your party becomes your tribe, criticism of a policy feels like an assault on who you are. That's not politics anymore. That's warfare. Tribalism isn't a flaw. It's a feature we have to consciously override. We evolved as tribal creatures because belonging to a group kept us alive. The problem is that ancient wiring hasn't caught up with modern civil society. Wilk and Corey agree: staying in real conversation across difference isn't natural. It's a decision. Most Trump voters aren't MAGA loyalists, and treating them as a monolith makes everything worse. Citing the More in Common "Beyond MAGA" research, Wilk points out that only about 29% of the 77 million people who voted for Trump in 2024 fit the MAGA hardliner profile. When we flatten a diverse group into a caricature of its worst actors, we guarantee the doom loop continues. You can support border security and still call out a botched implementation. Wilk doesn't hedge: he wanted the border closed. He also calls the deportation strategy's implementation a disaster, citing constitutional violations, erosion of institutional trust, and the breakdown of basic civic norms. This is what it sounds like when a conservative applies principles rather than party loyalty. The fix starts local, not national. Both Corey and Wilk see more reason for hope at the community and state level than in Washington. Local relationships, shared problems, and the ability to actually look someone in the eye still create space for the kind of trust that national politics has almost completely destroyed. About Our Guest Wilk Wilkinson is the Director of Media Systems and Operations for Braver Angels, and the host of Derate the Hate, a podcast offering practical tools and honest conversations for people trying to grow personally and engage civically. A self-described committed conservative, Wilk has spent years in the bridge-building space doing the kind of work he once would have dismissed. Find him at deratedhate.com and on Substack by searching "Wil Wilkinson." Links and Resources Braver Angels: braverangels.org Derate the Hate: deratethehate.com More in Common "Beyond MAGA" research: beyondmaga.us Monica Guzman / I Never Thought of It That Way: moniguzman.com/book Find us and engage with us on YouTube, Substack, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, Threads, TikTok, and Bluesky. Connect on Social Media Corey is @coreysnathan on all the socials… Substack LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Twitter Threads Bluesky TikTok Thanks to our Sponsors and Partners Thanks to Pew Research Center for making today's conversation possible. Links and additional resources: The Village Square: villagesquare.us Meza Wealth Management: mezawealth.com Proud members of The Democracy Group Clarity, charity, and conviction can live in the same room.
“We can survive. Can we thrive? That's a different question.” — Corey NathanRobert Mueller died last week. Educated at Princeton, this Vietnam veteran won a Purple Heart and then enjoyed decades of public service under presidents of both parties. But the current president celebrated Mueller's death. Such are the vagaries of American history.In contrast, Corey Nathan — host of the Talking Politics and Religion Without Killing Each Other podcast — isn't celebrating Robert Mueller's death. Nathan is from suburban northern Los Angeles County, very much at the heart of the (mythical?) American center. We discussed whether it's possible to have a civic conversation anymore. Like so many Americans, Nathan falls back on what he calls “data.” Apparently 85% of Americans are what a recent study calls the “exhausted majority.” They see themselves as anything but extreme. All they want to do is take the kids to soccer practice, enjoy their barbecue, and talk to the neighbour without the conversation degenerating into verbal war.Nathan's own story offers hope. He grew up in an Orthodox Jewish family whose roots go back eight hundred years to what is now Chernihiv in Ukraine. In his late twenties, he became a born-again Christian. His father seriously considered sitting Shiva for him — the mourning ritual for a dead family member. But he valued his relationship with his son more than his theological convictions. Twenty-five years later, the conversations are richer than ever. If an Orthodox Jewish father and his born-again Christian son can keep talking, maybe even the current American President could sit Shiva for Robert Mueller. Five Takeaways• 85% of Americans Are the Exhausted Majority: The Hidden Tribes study by More in Common found that only 6–7% on the right and 7–8% on the left are what we'd think of as extremes. The rest — 85% — are far more nuanced in their views. They want to go to the barbecue, take the kids to soccer practice, and have a conversation with the neighbour without it turning into a war. The conflict entrepreneurs on both sides have taken all the oxygen.• Mueller Was Everything We Say We Want in Our Kids: Purple Heart. Ivy League education. Used his degrees for public service instead of money. Served under presidents of both parties. Stayed on at the FBI after 9/11 when the country needed him. And the current president said he was glad he died.• ICE Came to the Neighbouring Church: Nathan's pastor had to have the conversation: if ICE comes, they're welcome to worship — but here are our legal obligations. A suburban mom was shot in her front seat two months ago. Is anything visibly wrong in the American suburbs? Today, at his house, no. But these things are happening all over the country.• His Father Almost Sat Shiva for Him: Nathan grew up in an Orthodox Jewish family. In his late twenties, he became a born-again Christian. His father seriously considered performing the mourning ritual for a living son. But he valued the relationship with his child more than his theological convictions. Twenty-five years later, the conversations are richer than ever.• We Can Survive. Can We Thrive? Nathan's family lived in what is now Chernihiv, Ukraine, for eight hundred years. One day to the next, nothing changed — until the Cossacks burned the houses and the Bolsheviks came. Democracy isn't perfect, but it's the system that lets us thrive, not just survive. About the GuestCorey Nathan is the host and producer of Talking Politics and Religion Without Killing Each Other, a top 1% podcast. He lives in northern Los Angeles County.References:• Talking Politics and Religion Without Killing Each Other — Nathan's podcast.• Episode 2849: How Stories Can Save Us — Colum McCann on Narrative Four, referenced in the conversation.• Episode 2846: How to Be Agreeably Disagreeable — Julia Minson on disagreeing better. Nathan is the practitioner to Minson's science.About Keen On AmericaNobody asks more awkward questions than the Anglo-American writer and filmmaker Andrew Keen. In Keen On America, Andrew brings his pointed Transatlantic wit to making sense of the United States — hosting daily interviews about the history and future of this now venerable Republic. With nearly 2,800 episodes since the show launched on TechCrunch in 2010, Keen On America is the most prolific intellectual interview show in the history of podcasting.WebsiteSubstackYouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify Chapters:(00:31) - Introduction: Robert Mueller dies, Trump says he's glad (03:25) - Mueller as American tragedy: David Frum and the centrist view (05:48) - The exhausted majority: Hidden Tribes and the 85% (08:40) - Is the left as bad as the right? (10:15) - Braver Angels, shell-shock, and the people who just want a barbecue (13:53) - If a foreigner landed in your suburb, would they notice anything wrong? (15:33) - ICE at the neighbouring church. A mom shot in her front seat. (17:43) - The secret sauce of talking without killing (20:26) - Colum McCann, Narrative Four, and storytelling as civic repair (22:04) - Does democracy really matter if you've got soccer practice? (24:04) - Surviving vs. thriving: eight hundred years as strangers in a strange land (25:19) - The First Amendment's two halves: freedom of and freedom from (28:55) - An Orthodox Jew becomes a born-again Christian. His father almost sits Shiva. (32:04) - The revolutionary centre: Adrian Wooldridge and the lost genius of liberalism
Braver Angels Ambassadors are among the most courageous of courageous citizens.Not only do they bridge the partisan divide, these volunteers meet people where they are. At meetings and events across the country, they go speak about Braver Angels as they try to convince skeptics that rebuilding civic trust is a cause worth supporting. In this episode, we hear from Barbara Hancin and Ron “Sugar Bear” McFarland, volunteer co-chairs of the Braver Angels ambassadors program.“What we're were doing is giving hope to people,” says Barbara. “We don't have to stay in the rancor. There are ways to build bridges and we'll help you do that.”Barbara has more than 35 years of experience in higher education, with expertise in linguistics and second language learning, global studies, and academic administration. She's a moderator for workshops that bring people together across differences. Barbara leans Blue and lives in Colorado. Ron leans Red and calls home home Ames Iowa. A former star college football player at Iowa State University, Ron has enjoyed a long and distinguished career as an educator, coach, mentor and civic bridge builder. In this episode, we hear about the mission of Braver Angels Ambassadors, plus exactly how and why they do their work. We share compelling and surprising examples of how Ron and Barbara engage with total strangers.Both of them say their volunteering has brought personal rewards. “It made me be more patient,” says Ron. “It changed me to understand that just because I think something should be a certain way that doesn't mean the other person agrees.”“How Do We Fix It?” publishes frequent reports on the people, projects and ideas of Braver Angels, the largest nation group of citizen volunteers who are working to overcome America's divides and restore civic trust. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply) You've heard the Golden Rule your whole life. Jennifer Furlong says it's a great start — but it's not enough.In this episode, Wilk welcomes back communications strategist and coach Jennifer Furlong (Communication TwentyFourSeven) for a conversation that's equal parts practical and eye-opening. They dig into the Platinum Rule — the idea that truly effective communication means treating people the way they want to be treated, not the way you do. That shift sounds simple. It isn't.Jen and Wilk explore the four core communication styles, why acknowledgment and agreement are two very different things, and what it actually takes — courage, intention, and a willingness to put your ego in the back seat — to have a real conversation with someone who sees the world completely differently than you do.If you've ever walked away from a hard conversation feeling like nothing got through, this one's for you.Topics Covered:• The Platinum Rule vs. the Golden Rule• The four communication styles and your default setting• Why listening IS the skill (not just a nice-to-have)• Acknowledgment ≠ agreement• Communicating across ideological differences• Creating shared meaning — even when you can't find common ground• The Three Gates: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?Learn more about and connect with Jennifer Furlong by getting the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.comThe world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you've got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on:Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/ContactThe Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America's largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.orgWelcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.
Blake Moore teletownhall -- Supreme Court hears arguments on RNC mail in ballot receipt date challenge -- Casey Jorgensen, Project and Event Coordinator for Utah Braver Angels
John Wood Jr., national ambassador for Braver Angels, leading figure in the American depolarization movement, and host of The Reconstruction Project on KBLA Talk 1580, joins Tavis Smiley in studio to discuss trending political topics.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/tavis-smiley--6286410/support.
Is it possible to find points of agreement on some of the most heated and divisive issues in American politics? Can people who profoundly disagree sit down and learn from each other? The answers to both questions is an emphatic "yes!".In this episode we hear about the current work of the Citizens Commission on Immigration from its Director, Braver Angels co-founder, David Lapp. The goal of the Citizens Commission is to demonstrate to Congress and the nation that Americans with differing views on immigration can find common ground. The Commission works in a red/blue balanced way and includes Americans from all sides of the issue. Over the past two years, grassroots Americans and national experts and advocates of all sides of the immigration issue have met together."There have now been about 50 immigration events across the country," David tells us. "We can find some meaningful areas of agreement." Large majorities of participants from the left and right agree on the need for secure borders, and believe that businesses should face penalties for hiring undocumented workers. Some agreement was also found on a pathway to citizenship for "Dreamers" who came to the US as children. The Commission was launched after about 750 delegates at the 2024 Braver Angels National Convention voted to establish immigration as a Braver Angels priority issue. By the end of this year The Commission aims to hold one hundred grassroots events across the country, and eight National Roundtable meetings.The point of having a citizens commission on immigration speaks to what Abraham Lincoln said: "In America we're a government of the people, by the people, for the people", says David. "Our laws and our policies should reflect what we the ordinary people think."In our interview we also discuss what David has learned in his years of committed work with Braver Angels. If you want to get a sense of the heart and soul of this movement, it's well worth listening to him. Before helping to start Braver Angels, David spent several years interviewing working-class Ohioans about their life experiences and families. He lives with his wife, Amber, and their six children in South Lebanon, Ohio—the site of the first-ever Braver Angels workshop in December 2016. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
As How to Fix Democracy opens its seventh season on democratic resilience, host Andrew Keen welcomes Maury Giles, the new CEO of Braver Angels, for a candid conversation about whether American democracy can withstand what Giles calls the "industrial outrage complex." In a year marking the nation's 250th anniversary, Giles argues that resilience is not something institutions deliver from above, but something citizens practice from below. Drawing on his experience leading one of the country's largest cross-partisan civic movements -and on the lived reality of raising a political divided family of ten- he makes the case for "courageous citzenship", the discipline of choosing to act rather than react. Together Keen and Giles explore why polarization in 2026 may feel more toxic than a decade ago, how performative politics and social media have eroded trust, and why dialogue alone is no longer enough without collaborative local action. They confront hard questions about government incentives, declining institutional trust, and whether putting down our devices might be a precondition for rebuilding civic culture. Yet the tone remains cautiously hopeful: if the pain of division is finally high enough, Americans may be ready to change. In the end, this episode suggests that democratic renewal will not come from one side defeating the other, but from citizens rediscovering their agency, and practicing resilience as a daily civic habit.
(00:00:00) The YWCA Greater Harrisburg is pleased to announce the honorees for their 37th Annual Tribute to Women of Excellence, all of whom will be celebrated at an event on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the Hershey Lodge and Convention Center. Over the last 37 years, the YWCA has honored more than 800 extraordinary women for their contributions to our region, both professionally and philanthropically. This year, they honor 28 women who dedicate time and talent to making a difference in Central Pennsylvania. (00:22:19) On this month's Braver Angels segment, we’ve all seen the growing division in our country, and we are at a pivotal point in time where we can choose to add to the division (using polarizing language, sharing highly politicized memes, etc), or we can be courageous and work to close that divide. Braver Angel's workshops and events are not about changing minds or compromising. They are meant to change how we view each other. People do not have to indicate their political leaning when they attend a skill building workshop. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Conflict entrepreneurs get money, influence and power by sparking anger and outrage. The Braver Angels call for courageous citizenship does precisely the opposite. In this podcast we hear the case for citizen power not paralysis, action not reaction, and why building America's civic muscle is so much better than burning things down.Here is a passionate, thoughtful and curious conversation between Braver Angels C.E.O. Maury Giles and Wilk Wilkinson, Director of Braver Angels Media Operations. Both came to their work with the campaign after years in the private sector. Maury and Wilk are conservatives in a movement where a majority is either independent or leans blue.Our episode is the latest in more than two dozen "How Do We Fix It?" discussions on the people, projects and ideas of America's largest organization committed to civic renewal and building trust across partisan divides. The edited recording was first published in longer form by Wilk's podcast, "Derate The Hate"."At the end of the day the common thing we're trying to get to is how do you get out of the outrage cycle so you can see clearly what you're going to do next," says Maury.Hear about about America's crisis of mistrust, and the responsibility of citizens to act with courage, instead of reacting with fury and fear. Gain a fully understanding of the case for courageous citizenship. Learn why it's important to recruit more conservatives to our movement. Get the scoop about "A Pledge Renewed", the theme of this year's Braver Angels Convention in Philadelphia. This episode covers them all and a good deal more.Here's a link to "The Power of Giving Away Power How The Best Leaders Learn to Let Go", by Matthew Barzun, mentioned by Maury during the conversation. Thank you to Wilk for his help and giving us permission to share this discussion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply) In Episode 303 of Derate The Hate, Wilk Wilkinson sits down with poet and author April Ossmann to explore how poetry can become a powerful tool for bridging America's political divide.April is the author of We: Poems (Red Hen Press, 2025), a collection devoted to healing polarization through empathy, metaphor, and shared humanity. A recent member of Braver Angels, she brings a unique voice to the civic renewal movement — one grounded not in rhetoric, but in soul.In this episode, they discuss:How poetry fosters understanding where arguments failThe difference between compromise and “synergizing”Why civility is strength — not weaknessFamily estrangement and political divisionListening with intentionSeeing past ego to soulApril's “Peace Hymn for the Republic”If you care about democracy, dialogue, and restoring decency in public life, this conversation will challenge and inspire you.Learn more about April Ossmann in the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com.The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you've got. Make every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America's largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast! *The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.
Our guest speaker for the February Meeting is William J. Doherty, Ph.D., Co-founder of Braver Angels. Bill has built a lifetime of work around helping people bridge deep divides. A co-founder of Braver Angels, Bill is the chief designer of the organization's foundational workshops that bring Americans together across political differences to restore trust, understanding, and healthy democratic dialogue. Join CCL: https://cclusa.org/join February Action Sheet: https://cclusa.org/actionsheet Explore CCL's BRIDGE Program: https://cclusa.org/BRIDGE
The recent immigration crackdown in Minnesota that led to several thousand arrests, mass detentions, angry protests, deepening political divides, and the deaths of two US citizens in Minneapolis is coming to an end. What's life been like for the residents of the Twin Cities during the recent surge of at least three thousand ICE agents on the streets? How will Braver Angels and other groups who work to reduce toxic political divides show up going forward? We consider these and other questions in this special episode of “How Do We Fix It?”Our guests are two leading members of Braver Angels Minnesota, Melinda Voss who leans blue, and Scott Schluter who leans red. Both say this has been a time of elevated emotions, anxiety and fear for public and personal safety.“It is so easy to be outraged when your fear level is so high,” Scott tells us. Discussions across divides have been difficult, he says. “Other than saying ‘ICE out', then what happens?”Melinda says “the more we can sit down face-to-face with those we disagree, that in itself brings down the political temperature."Melinda and Scott acknowledge that a great deal of healing and community work will be needed in the coming weeks, months and years. Minneapolis-Saint Paul is an overwhelmingly liberal and progressive region. Having an honest and respectful conversation across divides requires courage, especially now.In this episode we look at the state of political polarization in the city, and talk about ideas to lower the temperature. We speak with Scott and Melinda about the work of Braver Angels in their state and what success could look like several years from now.Scott Schluter is the red-leaning Minnesota State Coordinator, having previously established the Minneapolis Alliance and leading the "World's Best Workforce" for the Minneapolis Public Schools. Scott developed key skills through his experience in retail sales and management, including bridging divides by asking thoughtful questions, listening well, seeking understanding and staying curious — qualities that align closely with the Braver Angels mindset.Melinda Voss is one of two state coordinators for Braver Angels Minnesota. She leans blue. Now retired, she was a staff writer for the Des Moines Register and Tribune for nearly 26 years, taught journalism at three universities, co-founded the Association of Health Care Journalists, starting as unpaid coordinator 1997-2000 and as executive director 2000-2004 and served as public relations director for the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system 2005-2012.“How Do We Fix It?” reports on the people, projects, and ideas of Braver Angels. In recent episodes we've spoken with new CEO Maury Giles about recent initiatives and changes, Steve Saltwick about Citizen-Led Solutions, and Sam Rechak of the Braver Angels debate team. We are planning many more podcast episodes this year.A warm thank you to Minneapolis facilitator and connector Jessica Shyrack for timely and wise help as we prepared to produce this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
(00:00:00) WITF’s Jaxon White breaks down Gov. Josh Shapiro’s 2026 budget address, delivered to the Pennsylvania legislature on Tuesday, Feb. 3. He explains the administration’s key priorities, proposed spending, and what the plan could mean for communities across the Commonwealth. WITF reporter Jordan Wilkie also joins us to discuss his recent reporting on efforts by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to reinterpret or narrow long‑standing constitutional protections. He outlines what these actions look like on the ground, their potential legal implications, and how affected families are responding. (00:22:37) Later in the episode, Dr. Mary Theresa “Terry” Webb of Braver Angels shares why she believes the country is facing a dangerous moment of toxic politics and weakened leadership, and why courageous citizenship is more essential than ever. Listeners interested in Braver Angels can visit braverangels.org, use the “Find My Alliance” tool to locate the Lower Susquehanna Alliance, or join for $12/year to receive national and local updates and access free virtual events.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"The greatness of America lies not in being more enlightened than any other nation, but rather in her ability to repair her faults." —Alexis de Tocqueville When Alexis de Tocqueville traveled to a freshly-minted America, he found a people gathering and talking and deciding on things—they were building, and they were repairing. That's a 250-year-old spirit we're going to need to rediscover, so we're bringing together two young leaders of this very old idea—John Wood and Manu Meel. Of the people, by the people and for the people is how these two have been getting it done. John Wood is the National Ambassador and Director of Public Engagement at Braver Angels, an effort we at The Village Square have been fans and supporters of since it was still a glimmer in its founder's eye. John is also a columnist at USA Today. Manu Meel is the founding CEO of BridgeUSA, an organization on campuses across America. He's also been named one of Forbes 30 under 30 in education. And (here's the bonus): they are dear friends. Learn more about our guests and find the program online here. This program is part of the series in partnership with Florida Humanities — "UNUM: Democracy Reignited," a multi-year digital offering exploring the past, present and future of the American idea — as it exists on paper, in the hearts of our people, and as it manifests (or sometimes fails to manifest) in our lives. ———————————————————— The Village Square is a proud member of The Democracy Group, a network of podcasts that examines what's broken in our democracy and how we can work together to fix it. UNUM: Democracy Reignited is made possible in partnership with Florida Humanities (Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities.)
Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply) In this episode of Derate The Hate, Wilk sits down with Bill Woodson, founder of Conversations Across The Aisle, to explore what local bridge building looks like in a deeply polarized moment.Bill shares the story behind launching the CATA Project, a community-based effort focused on respectful dialogue, shared humanity, and restoring civic trust—starting locally, with aspirations to grow nationally.Together, Wilk and Bill discuss:Why toxic debate often shuts down understandingHow polarization erodes hope and personal agencyThe power of safe, facilitated dialogue spacesSeparating people from the positions they holdWhy community-level efforts matter more than national shouting matchesThis is a conversation about choosing courage over outrage—and building something better, one table at a time.
If we're going to get out of the political mess that we're in right now, we will need a lot of help from Gen Z. Young people inherited our broken civic space, and they're ones who will be the courageous citizens who reimagine it.In this episode we learn from two former Braver Angels debate interns, Natalie LaRoche and Genevieve Raushenbush, about the skills, energy, and passion students and young people bring to the movement to depolarize politics. We also hear from them about they have learned at Braver Angels.Natalie LaRoche is the program manager for the Debate Team. Natalie was an intern in late 2021 and joined the Braver Angels staff a year later. She holds a BA in Government at Smith College. Genevieve Raushenbush was a recent intern at Braver Angels. Now she works at Sway, a start up focused on mobilizing citizen-led voting groups. Genevieve holds a B.A. in Economics from Harvard University and in 2025 was a legislate intern on the Hill. Both women are in their mid-twenties.“Young people are disengaging from political chaos,” says Natalie. But they're also “really passionate about engaging in bridging movement exercises, whether with Braver Angels or partnership organizations like Bridge USA on campuses or Heterodox Academy. There are so many organizations in this space that really do engage young people.”Both Natalie and Genevieve share creative ideas about how young people can help Braver Angels up its game with new forms of digital outreach. We share two examples of short videos they created. Genevieve told us what she's learning about reaching out and organizing voters in her work with Sway,“How Do We Fix It?” reports on the people, projects, and ideas of Braver Angels, the national movement working across tribal and partisan divides to heel our country and make a better world. Find more of our episodes about Braver Angels at our website. Subscribe to our latest episodes wherever you listen to podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Send Wilk a text with your feedback!In this milestone 300th episode of Derate The Hate, Wilk Wilkinson is joined by Maury Giles, CEO of Braver Angels, for a wide-ranging conversation on toxic polarization, trust, and the responsibility of citizens in a divided America.Maury shares his journey from a 35-year corporate career into full-time civic engagement, and why he believes courageous citizenship—not outrage or withdrawal—is the antidote to our current crisis.Together, Wilk and Maury explore:Why polarization thrives when citizens give up agencyThe importance of red voices in the depolarization spaceHow trust is rebuilt locally, not onlineWhy disagreement is essential to a healthy constitutional republicWhat it means to renew the American pledge of shared responsibilityThis episode marks not just a podcast milestone—but a call to action for citizens who still believe this country is worth the work.The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you've got. Make every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America's largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast! *The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.
For many Americans, taking part in a debate is just about the last thing they'd put on their dance card.But Braver Angels debates are different. In this episode Sam Rechek explains why.“Braver Angels debates are fun,” Sam tells us. “We've created a structure where people can have productive disagreements about contentious issues. That's something many yearn for, and they get interested in really fast.”Unlike most debates, there are no “winners” or “losers”. Speakers at Braver Angels debates are often passionate, but they can't interrupt or be snarky about the other side. Compelling arguments are made on both sides in a respectful way. Different viewpoints about an issue are warmly welcomed, but all comments must be addressed to the chair, not directly to the person you disagree with.“There's a real hunger for environments where people can have productive disagreements and mutual understanding”, says Sam. In our interview we also discuss LAPP skills, and the concept of courageous citizenship.Many of our beliefs about politics and controversial events are formed, or at least influenced, by fleeting impressions: Hot takes on social media, sound bites on TV and radio, and comments by those we know. This episode makes the case for going deeper and spending time with those you may passionately disagree with.Sam Rechek is Program Coordinator for the Braver Angels Debate Team. Several years ago as a undergraduate at the University of South Florida, Sam worked with FIRE - the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression and Heterodox Academy. He founded a student organization, First Amendment Forum—1AF—which developed into a venue for contentious discourse and advocacy for free speech principles. Sam holds a BA in Philosophy and Political Science from USF and an MA in Legal and Political Theory from University College London."How Do We Fix It?" reports on the people, projects and ideas of Braver Angels, the nation's largest cross-partisan volunteer-led movement to bridge partisan divides. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
(00:00:00) PennLive has reported that Lenwood Sloan passed away on December 26th at the age of 77. Lenwood was a passionate historian, educator and advocate for preserving the story of Harrisburg's old 8th ward. In this conversation, originally broadcast on July 21 he and Dr. Andrew Hermeling discuss the “Look Up, Look Out” campaign that seeks to reimagine Harrisburg’s Old Eighth Ward, a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that was demolished in the 1910s to make way for Capitol Park. (00:30:00) Maury Giles is stepping into his new role as CEO of Braver Angels after spending five years with the organization as a volunteer, a transition he describes as both unexpected and deeply purposeful. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A conversation worth revisiting. Mónica Guzmán's work captures the spirit of Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other at its best: fearlessly curious, deeply humane, and committed to bridging divides without sacrificing conviction. In this Best of TP&R episode, Corey revisits his wide-ranging and deeply grounded conversation with Mónica Guzmán — journalist, author of I Never Thought of It That Way, Senior Fellow for Public Practice at Braver Angels, and one of the most trusted voices in America's bridge-building movement. Together, they explore why outrage so easily masquerades as moral clarity, how curiosity can act as a cooling force in moments of political rage, and why dialogue and activism are not opposing paths but necessary partners. Mónica reflects candidly on her own fears, boundaries, and doubts — including how to know when understanding must give way to action, and how to stay vigilant without becoming certain too quickly. This conversation also digs into free speech, Congress's abdication of responsibility, the ethics of moderation and “proven falsehoods,” and why policing structure rather than content may be one of the most overlooked tools for healthier public discourse. If you're new to TP&R — or if you've been looking for a hopeful, serious, and intellectually honest entry point into what this show is about — this episode remains one of our clearest expressions of that mission. Calls to Action ✅ TELL A FRIEND ABOUT TP&R!!! Help spread the message of meaningful conversation. ✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform. ✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you listen ✅ Join the community on Substack: coreysnathan.substack.com ✅ Watch & subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion Timestamps & Key Topics [00:00] Why revisiting this conversation matters right now [00:03] Processing elections without losing perspective [00:06] Recognizing when outrage needs curiosity [00:09] Congress, executive power, and shared civic frustration [00:12] COVID, free speech, and lived experience across divides [00:17] When understanding persuades — and when it doesn't [00:20] Boundaries, bridge-burning, and “loving from a safe distance” [00:28] Moderation, misinformation, and policing structure vs. content [00:37] Dialogue and activism — why we need both [00:45] What good journalism actually looks like [00:50] Where Mónica's bridge-building instinct began [00:57] Parenting, power, and conflict at the most human level [01:00] The real work of talking politics & religion without killing each other Key Takeaways • Outrage isn't clarity — it's often unexamined fear looking for certainty. • Curiosity doesn't weaken conviction; it strengthens discernment. • Dialogue without action can become navel-gazing — but action without dialogue is reckless. • Policing how we engage often matters more than policing what is said. • Bridge-building isn't naïve optimism; it's disciplined moral courage. Notable Quotes “Engagement is not endorsement.” “Dialogue without activism is navel-gazing. Activism without dialogue is doomed.” “Certainty is tempting — vigilance is harder.” “Sometimes courage looks like not burning the bridge.” Connect with Corey Corey is @coreysnathan on all the socials... Substack LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Twitter Threads Bluesky TikTok Our Sponsors Pew Research Center: pewresearch.org The Village Square: villagesquare.us Meza Wealth Management: mezawealth.com Proud members of The Democracy Group
Pick a controversial topic. Whether it's immigration, race, climate change, the role of religion, or the economy, many of our assumptions that we view as completely reasonable can seem whacky or wrong to others. This may well include very smart, thoughtful people, who've had very different life experiences than our own.Our guest for this episode is Chauncey Williams, a Democratic-leaning Braver Angels volunteer in Denver.He was shocked when Donald Trump was first elected President in 2016. But instead of retreating into his political silo, Chauncey began a unique project. On different occasions he set up a table with two chairs in local parks, and invited total strangers to have conversations about important public matters. “One of the important things I came to realize is that I walk into a lot of those conversations with a host of assumptions about folks that aren't always true,” Chauncey told us. “I've often been fascinated and humbled by realizing my own limitations in knowledge, and having that revealed,” he said. “I've had this happen on more than one occasion… As uncomfortable as it is, I also welcome it.”In our revealing interview Chauncey shares what he learned from his “chats in a park” project. We hear two audio extracts from his nuanced conversations— one with an outspoken conservative who challenged Chauncey on his views of drop boxes during elections, and another with a recent immigrant from Ecuador who explained what diversity meant to him and his family.Chauncey Williams lives in Colorado where he is involved with the Southern Front Range and Denver Alliances. This year, he helped launch a "Share Your Story" event to learn how others came to their views on specific political topics and on politics, generally. He is a member of Braver Angels Denver Alliance.“How Do We Fix It?” reports on the people, projects and ideas of Braver Angels, the cross-partisan citizen's movement that brings red, blue, and other Americans together in a working alliance. Braver Angels is building new ways for Americans to talk to one another, and act as courageous citizens. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Send Wilk a text with your feedback!Episode 293 with guest Nathan StockIn this episode, Wilk sits down with international conflict-resolution specialist Nathan Stock, a man with more than 20 years of experience working to reduce violence and strengthen democracy around the world. Nathan shares how his journey began as an English teacher in Gaza during the Al-Aqsa Intifada — an experience that taught him how quickly societies can shift from tension to full-scale conflict.Nathan explains the unsettling parallels he now sees in American political polarization: declining trust in institutions, tribal media bubbles, and the growing tendency to view political opponents as evil rather than human. But he also emphasizes the hopeful part: we still have agency, and personal relationships across difference remain one of the strongest antidotes to toxic polarization.Topics include: • Lessons from living through violent conflict • Why good people can be driven to do bad things • The role of media consumption in shaping our “reality” • Declining trust in institutions • How everyday citizens can help reduce political hostility • Building cross-partisan relationships that humanize, not demonizeLearn more about and connect with Nathan Stock by getting the full show notes at www.DerateTheHate.com.The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for all you've got. Make every day the day that you want it to be! Please follow The Derate The Hate podcast on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/Contact The Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America's largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.org Welcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast! *The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.
More than at any time in our nation's history, news coverage of politics and public events is dominated by national media, but many of the solutions to Americans toxic partisan divides are to be found at the local level.In this episode we hear from Steve Saltwick, the inaugural Senior Fellow of Braver Angels, and founding conservative co-chair of the Braver Angels Central Texas Alliance. Steve is one of the leading lights of Citizen-Led Solutions, a new Braver Angels nationwide initiative that equips communities across the country to find common ground through building trust and solving contentious issues. Citizens of many different backgrounds and opinions are directly involved. “It's incredible when someone feels they've been heard,” Steve tells us. “A whole lot of people are talking at people. There's not enough people talking with people about solving our problems.”Citizen-Led Solutions helps build civic muscle through action instead of outrage. “We're not battling over one side vanquishing the other. It's setting a norm of working together to solve problems our nation is facing,” he says.Steve is a neuroscientist who studies the human brain especially as it relates to artificial intelligence. He brings those skills to his work as a volunteer for Braver Angels.In this episode, we discuss two examples of Citizen-Led Solutions— in Newfield, New York, and Nashville, Tennessee. We also examine specific techniques used by Citizen-Led Solutions.“There's a personal angle to this, a community angle, and a national angle,” says Steve.Learn more about Braver Angels here.Listen to our "How Do We Fix It?" podcasts about Braver Angels here.Braver Angels is America's biggest cross-partisan, volunteer-led movement to bridge toxic political divides. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We say we want unity. Are you willing to do what it takes to achieve greater harmony in America? Or even just at your dinner table? There's a playbook that can help you. Meet Doug Teschner and Beth Malow of BetterAngels.org. They have written and self-published a book that can help: "Beyond the Politics of Contempt: Practical Steps to Build Positive Relationships In Divided Times." They also publish on Substack: TogetherNow.Substack.com. Doug and Beth join Michele to discuss why America must be preserved and how each of us can contribute to the cause. Michele Tafoya is a four-time Emmy award-winning sportscaster turned political and cultural commentator. Record-setting, four-time Sports Emmy Award winner Michele Tafoya worked her final NBC Sunday Night Football game at Super Bowl LVI on February 13, 2022, her fifth Super Bowl. She retired from sportscasting the following day. In total, she covered 327 games — the most national primetime TV games (regular + postseason) for an NFL sideline reporter. Learn More about “The Michele Tafoya Podcast” here: https://linktr.ee/micheletafoya Subscribe to “The Michele Tafoya Podcast” here: https://apple.co/3nPW221 Follow Michele on twitter: https://twitter.com/Michele_Tafoya Follow Michele on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realmicheletafoya/ Learn more about the Salem Podcast network: https://salempodcastnetwork.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We say we want unity. Are you willing to do what it takes to achieve greater harmony in America? Or even just at your dinner table? There's a playbook that can help you. Meet Doug Teschner and Beth Malow of BetterAngels.org. They have written and self-published a book that can help: "Beyond the Politics of Contempt: Practical Steps to Build Positive Relationships In Divided Times." They also publish on Substack: TogetherNow.Substack.com. Doug and Beth join Michele to discuss why America must be preserved and how each of us can contribute to the cause. Michele Tafoya is a four-time Emmy award-winning sportscaster turned political and cultural commentator. Record-setting, four-time Sports Emmy Award winner Michele Tafoya worked her final NBC Sunday Night Football game at Super Bowl LVI on February 13, 2022, her fifth Super Bowl. She retired from sportscasting the following day. In total, she covered 327 games — the most national primetime TV games (regular + postseason) for an NFL sideline reporter. Learn More about “The Michele Tafoya Podcast” here: https://linktr.ee/micheletafoya Subscribe to “The Michele Tafoya Podcast” here: https://apple.co/3nPW221 Follow Michele on twitter: https://twitter.com/Michele_Tafoya Follow Michele on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realmicheletafoya/ Learn more about the Salem Podcast network: https://salempodcastnetwork.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Many people say Thanksgiving is their favorite holiday: No cards to be sent. No presents to be purchased. A pause with family and close friends before the year-end holiday rush. Thanksgiving is about gratitude, but it can also be a time of anxiety, and even dread. What do you say to family members, friends and neighbors who vote for a candidate or political party you despise? How do you react when they launch into a rant or say something that you find offensive? We share tips about how to disagree better with those you love.Our guest is Braver Angels National Advisor Mónica Guzmán, author of the book “I Never Thought of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times”. Móni is the liberal leaning, loving daughter of conservative parents. She's had a lot of personal experience of connecting with people not like her. We hear several examples in this episode.Despite rigid political polarization among elites, everyday Americans may have much more in common than many of us believe. A new Gallup poll finds that more than four-in-five adults endorse compromise and reject political violence. Research for More In Common and other groups found that people have a distorted understanding of those on the other side of the political aisle.One-on-one and in-person conversations are the best way for us to overcome polarization in our personal lives, says Mónica. "The only context where we have our full arsenal of communication tools available is the in-person conversation."In our interview, Móni also shares valuable tips about how to listen with curiosity, lean into disagreements and turn them away from awkwardness and misunderstandings.Learn more about how to have better conversations with friends and loved ones who see the world differently than you do here at the Braver Angels website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Are you a little worried about holiday conversations with your relatives and family members in this increasingly polarized political climate? You're not alone. Welcome to something new – a live discussion with our guest, Dr. Bill Doherty, co-founder of Braver Angels and a deeply experienced relationship therapist, coaching one of us (Sara) through how to have difficult conversations, not in theory, but with an actual extended family member who has differing political viewpoints from me. Nowadays, politics is personal. So, as much as it's tempting to bury our heads in the sand, these conversations are skills of democratic living - we can't abandon them at a family level and expect our political leaders to do it for us. You won't want to miss the discomfort, the realizations, the tips and perspectives that can help us ALL have better, more meaningful connections and conversations with the people we love in our lives – even and especially if we don't always agree with them. What to listen for: What are the two types of conversation levels, and what you should do when one or both are challenged by something like a provocative question Why it's important to have difficult conversations like these 1-1, versus in a group How we approach these conversations with a "grownup" mindset, despite what we're seeing these days on a more global scale About our guest: Bill Doherty is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Family Social Science at the University of Minnesota. As a therapist, he focuses on couples on the brink of divorce and on political stress in relationships. He has authored 14 books for professionals and the public. Following the 2016 U.S. Presidential election, he co-founded Braver Angels, a citizen initiative bringing conservatives and liberals together to counteract political polarization and restore the fraying social fabric in American society. Bill is the chief designer of the Braver Angels workshops and has conducted workshops all over the country, including for state legislatures and Members of Congress. Braver Angels now has volunteers working in all 50 states. Among his awards is the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Family Therapy Academy. Related episodes: How to have uncomfortable conversations, our primer for holiday seasons How to have compassionate dialogue, with Dr Nancy Dome
We talk about how nobody gets along a lot on this show. Too much, some would say. But it is a real problem. Kraig from Braver Angels knows this. That's why his organization gets people together from both sides to have conversations. And yes, it's very sad that simply getting people to talk and not immediately throw a hissy fit is something that requires an organization to achieve, but that's America right now.On the show:AndyKristyn BurttBrittany ArnesonMike BryantKraig FinwallTopics covered:AI-generated productsVarious docu-series and biopicsBraver AngelsConversations across party linesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Just over three months into his new role as leader of Braver Angels, we hear from CEO Maury Giles about his hopes, plans and goals for America's largest volunteer-led movement working to bridge partisan divides and disagree better for the common good.America has lost much of its civic muscle, and it's time to get it back, Maury tells our host, Richard Davies. Rising polarization, declining trust in public institutions and the media, the spread of misinformation, the longest-ever government shutdown, and recent political violence are all signs that something is deeply wrong with our public square."We're trying to help people understand first and foremost that the choice you have to make is that of personal agency: To say am I going to act or react?,” Maury says."In this country we all have the ability to express a point of view and to try to work to solve things, and we don't have to rely on our elected officials to do that. But we've lost sight of our civic muscle.”Maury Giles came to Braver Angels after a career in journalism, politics, market research, communications strategy, experience design, and business development. Richard asked him about the challenges and opportunities he faces as a bridge builder at a difficult time.We hear about the case for citizen-led solutions, and why the true remedy to our civic challenges isn't reaction, but action, with neighbors working with their neighbors across divisions and mistrust. Over the past sixteen months, “How Do We Fix It?” has published more than twenty episodes about the people, projects and ideas of Braver Angels. Find them at our website. Like and subscribe to our shows on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about Maury's work and Braver Angels' mission here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Love, Happiness and Success Podcast With Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby
What do you do when someone you love sees the world so differently from you that every conversation feels tense? When your values and beliefs clash so deeply that you start wondering if you can stay close at all? If you've ever found yourself in that tension, between wanting to stay connected and wanting to stay true to yourself, you are not alone. In this episode, I'm talking with Dr. Bill Doherty, a professor, therapist, and co-founder of Braver Angels, about how to navigate hard conversations when politics, cultural influences, or deeply held beliefs divide us. Dr. Doherty shares how the same tools that heal intimate relationships can also strengthen our political communication, especially with the people we care about most. We talk about emotional self-regulation, listening with genuine curiosity, and the courage it takes to connect before you correct. You'll hear how story and empathy can shift defensiveness into understanding, and how choosing calm over control can keep love alive across even the deepest divides. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction with Dr. Bill Doherty and Braver Angels 02:16 The Origin of Braver Angels Workshops 10:30 Affective Polarization and Its Impact on Relationships 16:07 Media, Social Media, and the Angertainment Industry 21:46 Emotional Regulation and Communication Strategies 30:39 Choosing Whether to Engage or Step Back 32:05 Connect Before You Disagree 37:13 Using “I” Statements and Sharing Personal Stories 42:29 The Stories Behind Our Beliefs 50:21 You Can't Fight Someone the Same Way When You Know Their Heart Take a moment with me: who in your life do you find hard to talk to about what really matters? What might happen if you stopped trying to convince them and started listening for the experiences that shaped their beliefs? How might that change the way you show up in those moments? If listening today brought up memories of your own hard conversations, especially that ache of wanting to stay close when your differences feel impossible, I have something that can help. My Communication That Connects Free Masterclass is designed to help you move past power struggles and into real understanding. Inside, I'll walk you through the exact skills that turn tense moments into opportunities for empathy and connection. You'll learn how to calm reactivity, communicate from the heart, and create emotionally safe conversations - the kind that honor both your truth and your relationship. If this episode got you thinking (or feeling) about your own relationships, come hang out with me on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. I'm there every week sharing new insights, tools, and little reminders to help you stay grounded and connected - even when life gets messy! And if something from today's conversation sparked a question or story you want to share, I'd love to hear from you. Let's keep this conversation going. xoxo, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby Growing Self
Dr. Ann Kelley sits down with Dr. Bill Doherty to explore the idea of “Citizen Therapists” and how therapists — and all of us — can help bridge divides in a polarized world. Together, they dive into discernment counseling for couples on the brink of divorce, the groundbreaking work of Braver Angels in fostering dialogue across political differences, and the skills we all need for hard but healing conversations. This conversation highlights the power of curiosity, respectful boundaries, and understanding - whether in our closest relationships or across society. View the full episode show notes at TherapistUncensored.com/TU281
When was the last time you really connected with someone who disagrees with you? Or saw a post on social media that challenged your views? Or listened to a newscast from across the political aisle? Modern life places us in all kinds of echo chambers – so what happens when these divides stop us from actually seeing and understanding one another? Today's Sunday Pick is from How to be a Better Human, another podcast from TED. Host Chris Duffy speaks with journalist Mónica Guzmán, the daughter of Mexican immigrants who voted –twice– for Donald Trump. Now the chief storyteller for “Braver Angels”, an organization dedicated to political depolarization, Monica shares the tools she uses to find common ground with her loved ones. She talks about why interacting with (and listening to) different points of view is critical work – and how through curiosity we can achieve the seemingly impossible task of understanding those we tend to think of as our enemy. Her book, “I Never Thought of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times” is out now. Check out more How to Be a Better Human wherever you get your podcasts.For a chance to give your own TED Talk, fill out the Idea Search Application: ted.com/ideasearch.Interested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links:TEDNext: ted.com/futureyouTEDSports: ted.com/sportsTEDAI Vienna: ted.com/ai-viennaTEDAI San Francisco: ted.com/ai-sf Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.