Podcasts about Polarization

The current social, political and historical context offers many difficult challenges. We have experienced up close and from a distance awareness of a remarkable number of challenges including the wars, political unrest, growing socioeconomic inequities, climate catastrophe, and human and animal suffering.  These times are also marked by polarized thinking, including among analysts, candidates and in our communities.  An application of a psychoanalytically-informed method that rests on psychoanalytic clinical theory but focuses on group experiences of psycho-historical conflict as it continues in the present is offered as a means to facilitate deep and moving change when there is toxic polarization.    In this episode, Dr. Harriet Wolfe presents a unique application of psychoanalytic thinking.  She describes an interdisciplinary group that is international, intergenerational and diverse that meets periodically to apply analytic thinking to intractable large scale historical group traumas.  This method, called the International Dialogue Initiative includes psychoanalysts but also others (e.g. economists, lawyers, diplomats, historians) who share stories and deeply listen with the purpose of gaining perspective on unmanageable feelings through exploring cases of traumatic residues. While others, including Freud have theorized application of psychoanalysis to groups, this particular use is novel and important in today's times and speaks to how psychoanalysis can be truly psychoanalytic and at the same time be applied to political and social issues. Harriet Wolfe, M.D., is President of the International Psychoanalytical Association, Past President of the American Psychoanalytic Association, Clinical Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of California San Francisco, and Training and Supervising Analyst at the San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis. Her scholarly interests include clinical applications of psychoanalytic research, organizational processes, female development, and therapeutic action. She has co-authored a number of psychoanalytically informed guided activity workbooks for children, parents and teachers to help children cope with natural and manmade disasters. She has a private practice of psychoanalysis, and individual and couple's psychoanalytic psychotherapy in San Francisco. This Podcast Series, published by the International Psychoanalytical Association, is part of the activities of the IPA Communication Committee and is produced by the IPA Podcast Editorial Team. Co-Editors: Gaetano Pellegrini and Nicolle Zapien. Editing and Post-Production: Massimiliano Guerrieri. To stay informed about the latest podcast releases, please sign up today. A subtitled version of this podcast is available on our YouTube channel: You can download a copy of the paper here.            

This week we ask what drives ideological disagreement in politics? How far do people on left and right disagree with each other because they have fundamentally different moral intuitions or for other reasons? Polarisation is a defining feature of contemporary politics, raising concerns among many observers. People on the left and right—liberals and conservatives—often seem to inhabit entirely different worlds, holding fundamentally distinct perspectives on reality and morality. But what underpins these divisions? Are they rooted in deep-seated moral intuitions that we are born with or develop in childhood? Or do they stem from our present circumstances and the media landscape that shapes our understanding of the world? In this episode, we explore ground-breaking research by two scholars from the UCL Department of Political Science—Dr Jack Blumenau and Prof Ben Lauderdale. Their work offers fresh insights into the nature of political disagreement, challenging conventional wisdom about its origins. Jack join us to discuss these findings. (Jack Blumenau, Associate Professor of Political Science and Quantitative Research Methods.) Mentioned in this episode: Jack Blumenau and Ben Lauderdale. (2024) ‘Liberals and Conservatives Rely on Very Similar Sets of Foundations When Comparing Moral Violations', American Political Science Review Benjamin Lauderdale and Jack Blumenau. 2025. “ Polarization over the priority of political problems.” American Journal of Political Science Transcription link: https://uncoveringpolitics.com/episodes/is-morality-the-cause-of-ideological-disagreement/transcript Date of episode recording: 2025-03-06T00:00:00Z Duration: 00:38:10 Language of episode: English Presenter:Alan Renwick Guests: Jack Blumenau Producer: E Kingwell-Banham

Struggling to get on the same page with your co-parent about screen time rules? Worried that enforcing boundaries might harm your relationship with your teen? In this episode, Delaney talks with renowned family psychologist and author Dr. Laura Kastner about the tricky — but crucial — process of setting and upholding screen time rules. Together, they explore a practical roadmap built around The Four Cs: Calm, Confidence, Co-Parent Unity, and Collaboration. Packed with relatable examples and expert-backed strategies, this conversation will help you navigate resistance and hold boundaries that support your child's emotional development and well-being.   Featured Expert Laura Kastner, PhD   Books Getting To Calm, by Laura Kastner, PhD Wise Minded Parenting, by Laura Kastner, PhD   Time Code 00:00 Understanding the Core Issue: Fear and Relationships 00:27 Introduction to Parenting in the Screen Age 00:45 Challenges of Setting Screen Time Boundaries 01:10 Real-Life Examples of Unpopular Rules 02:31 Interview with Dr. Laura Kasner: The Four Cs 02:58 Applying the Four Cs to Real Scenarios 04:45 Staying Calm and Confident 06:23 Co-Parenting and Collaboration 08:39 Handling Teen Reactions and Family Meetings 12:18 Polarization and Parental Unity 20:03 Concluding Thoughts and Resources

In this solo episode, host Corey Nathan explores how the "us vs. them" mindset is damaging our democracy and personal relationships. Sharing powerful stories and reflections, Corey examines how this mentality can escalate from figurative harm to literal violence—and what we can do to stop it. What Is Discussed: How to recognize and avoid “us vs. them” thinking Why specificity matters more than generalizations How to reframe conversations to foster understanding When it's best to disengage from toxic interactions Episode Highlights: [00:01:00] The real-life consequences of political tribalism [00:03:00] How a quote from the Declaration of Independence sparked online hostility [00:15:00] Why generalizing leads to vilification [00:21:00] Reactions to the peaceful “No Kings” rally [00:28:00] How to name and address divisive rhetoric [00:34:00] When it's healthier to walk away Featured Quotes: "Think specifically, not generally." "Shift our disposition from facing off to side by side." "Sometimes, you just gotta know when to walk away."

Michael speaks with retired Secret Service agent and ABC News contributor Don Mihalek about the alarming rise in politically motivated violence following the targeted killings of Minnesota lawmakers. Mihalek explains how grievances, political polarization, and easy access to personal information—fueled by the internet and dark web—are creating unprecedented threats to public officials. He warns that local leaders, once considered safe from such dangers, are increasingly vulnerable "soft targets." The conversation explores the shifting threat landscape, the burden on law enforcement, and the troubling implications for civic participation and democracy. Original Air Date June 16, 2025.

Ep. 187 (Part 1 of 2) | Dr. Sally Adnams Jones has pioneered the field of art therapy as an agent of transformation and healing, choosing to work particularly with people living with no economic infrastructure: refugees, and victims of natural disasters, genocide, war, pandemics, and more. What Sally has found is that creating art within a community works miracles for the dispossessed and traumatized, in that it provides an embodied, practical method of engendering feelings of pride, a sense of belonging, finding one's voice, and perceiving the future as something one can affect and shape. In fact, this work is applicable to everyone everywhere—it is in accessing our creativity that we come to ask, “How do we start to build the world we need?” An Integral Taoist, Sally shares her perspective on the yin and yang of creativity, explaining that ultimately, creativity is emergence working through the human body.At the heart of Integral Taoism is an understanding that the nature of emergence itself is to become aware of your polarity and integrate it. The more you do that, the more creative you become. The discussion transitions from the dance of polarity in creativity to how the polarities of yin and yang are playing out in politics today. Sally is a Canadian therapist and exceptionally well informed about politics—here we gain a perspective on current U.S. – Canadian relations and world politics that is revelatory. Recorded May 29, 2025.“The basis of self-esteem is agency—and how you find agency is finding your hands, your heart, and your voice.”Topics & Time Stamps – Part 1Introducing Dr. Sally Adnams Jones, pioneer of transformation through creativity, psycho-spiritual educator, artist, author (00:56)How did Sally come to this work? Every kind of trauma exists in South Africa (01:58)Sally's book, Art-Making with Refugees and Survivors, is about how to access our creativity when we've been dispossessed and dislocated, with no agency left (05:11)Using your hands to access pre-verbal trauma: it starts with the thumb/hand/brain connection (07:07)Building self-esteem, pride, community, and hope through creating art (09:02)How does Sally build trust going into indigenous communities? (12:20)What happened to our creativity? In the modern era, we started discounting the right hemisphere (18:05)De-gendering creativity (20:43)Integral Taoism: understanding that the nature of emergence is to become aware of your polarity and integrate it (22:44)At the lower chakras, masculine and feminine come together as procreative; at the higher levels as creative (25:58)The ultimate understanding is about the mystery, an embodied channel to the divine (28:53)Creativity: emergence working through the human body (29:55)How do we potentiate through our body? Through understanding polarity principles (32:08)Sally's initiation to Integral Taoism in a park in Beijing, China (36:49)As an integrally informed Canadian therapist, what does Sally think about current U.S./Canada politics? (41:51)Polarization, and how polarities and yin/yang play out in politics (44:16)Resources & References – Part 1Sally Adnams Jones, Art-Making with Refugees and Survivors: Creative and Transformative Responses to Trauma After...

It was a wild weekend. Donald Trump presided over a military parade on his birthday while an estimated 5 million Americans protested around the country. Phil, Skye, and Kaitlyn discuss the optics of both events and ask, with America's divided politics and media silos, is protesting still effective? They also unpack a new article by Abby McCloskey in CT that argues evangelicalism's focus on a private, personalized faith undermines learning, curiosity, and exercising the mind. Then, theologian and Holy Post Pundit, Michael Bird, is back. He offers an outsider's perspective on Trump's military parade, the “No Kings” protests, and why he thinks more Christians should be concerned about the suspension of habeas corpus. Also this week: More '50s slang and an update on Ed the zebra. Holy Post Plus: Getting Schooled - Ethics of Exile 101: https://www.patreon.com/posts/130879694/   Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/131691890/   0:00 - Show Starts   3:25 - Theme Song   3:50 - Sponsor - Timeless designs, great fabrics. Perfect swimwear for your kids this summer! Check out Minnow at https://www.shopminnow.com enter SHOPMINNOW15 for 15% off your first order.   4:57 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Go to https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   6:18 - 50's Slang   9:44 - Ed the Zebra's Return!   14:35 - Military Parade   23:48 - What Does Protest Do?   32:05 - The Christian Mind Out of Practice   47:30 - Teaching Essentials of the Faith   50:21 -  Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST   51:28- Sponsor - World Relief - Join The Path as a monthly partner with World Relief! https://www.worldrelief.org/stand   52:24 - Interview   59:30 - Polarization of the Military   1:10:05 - Right to Protest   1:19:45 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: A Christian Mind Out of Practice by Abby McCloskey: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/06/christian-mind-out-of-practice-mark-noll-discipleship/ Other Resources: Read the Introduction to Skye's new book and sign up to Holy Post Plus to follow along as the book is written: holypost.com/book   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

Alot of people today are worried about how divided the United States seems. But what if that very division—when balanced and not extreme—is actually part of what makes us successful? After all, diversity implies a range of differences, and in many ways, ‘division' and ‘diversity' share the same roots: being distinct, varied, not all the same. The real danger isn't in being different—it's in becoming so polarized that we stop listening to each other. Diversity can make us stronger. Polarization, on the other hand, pulls us apart.In this episode of The Collective Perspective, hosts Jeff and Travis dive into the emotional, cultural, and spiritual cost of division in modern America. This isn't just about politics—this is about fractured families, broken churches, community distrust, and a deep erosion of collective hope.Most importantly, we offer a vision of how to break the cycle—through humility, curiosity, shared experiences, and honest conversations. From veterans working with young activists to faith-based efforts bridging gaps, this episode highlights how ordinary people can take small steps that make a big difference.Because unity doesn't get handed down. We build it, one story at a time.#FracturedNotBroken #TheCollectivePerspective #DiversityNotDivision #EndPolarization #BridgeTheGap #RealConversations #FaithAndCulture #UnitedInDifference #ListenToUnderstand #StrongerTogether Chapters (00:00:00) - Introduction: What Makes America Stronger(00:00:26) - Welcome Back: Meet the Hosts(00:00:35) - The Roots of Division(00:04:55) - Generational Gaps and Work Ethic(00:07:23) - Economic and Socioeconomic Divisions(00:10:02) - Cultural and Racial Divisions(00:12:44) - The Emotional Toll of Division(00:20:43) - Breaking the Pattern: Finding Unity(00:25:03) - Conclusion: Join Us Next Time

What makes this conversation urgent is what's at stake. When people with lower trust in healthcare turn to friends and family instead of medical professionals, when young adults say they'd leave their doctor over political beliefs, when misinformation spreads faster than facts—we're not just facing a communications challenge. We're facing a health crisis. But Courtney, who's spent 15 years bridging policy, advocacy, and communications, sees opportunity in the challenge. Organizations that share accurate information, take visible action on problems, and paint an optimistic future can still build trust. The question is: will they act fast enough? In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Courtney also speaks about: Why your employer might be your most trusted source of health information (especially if you're a woman) How political polarization is breaking the doctor-patient relationship What the shift from polarization to "grievance" means for healthcare Why women care about healthcare affordability 20 points more than men How to communicate health information when no one trusts the media What leaders must do now to rebuild trust before it's too late Chapter Markers 04:05 - From Policy to Trust: A Career Arc 05:32 - The Misinformation Crisis 08:18 - High Trust vs. Low Trust 10:30 - From Polarization to Grievance 12:11 - Building Trust in a Zero-Sum World 14:27 - Women, Employers, and the Trust Gap 16:12 - A Path Forward for Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Courtney Gray Haupt on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

Aaron McIntire highlights the U.S. Army's stunning success in meeting its 2025 recruiting goal of 61,000 soldiers four months early, a turnaround from 2022-2023 shortfalls. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth credits a morale shift under President Trump's “America First” leadership, emphasizing war-fighting over “politically correct garbage,” boosting enthusiasm across all military branches. McIntire reflects on a heartfelt Iowa National Guard send-off ceremony, noting the sacrifices of “salt of the earth” Americans, but questions U.S. Middle East involvement. A federal judge approves the House settlement, allowing colleges to pay athletes up to $20.5 million annually, ending the amateur model and sparking debate over walk-on athletes and stability in college sports. McIntire criticizes the NCAA's greed-driven history, doubting the settlement will stabilize athletics. In Los Angeles, immigration riots reveal deep polarization: Vice President J.D. Vance questions if foreign nationals assaulting police constitute an “invasion,” while 40% of L.A. residents are foreign-born. Governor Gavin Newsom calls deploying Marines “deranged,” and the LAPD labels violent protests “peaceful.” McIntire argues this reflects irreconcilable ideological divides. Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference unveils “Liquid Glass,” a new iOS 26 interface, but McIntire slams it as a superficial “coat of paint” from a stagnant tech giant lagging in AI. A poll on planned June 14 protests predicts “America on Fire” (33.1%), with headlines likely to frame Trump as tyrannical, ignoring reality. A mix of patriotism, cultural shifts, and societal fractures.   U.S. Army recruiting, Pete Hegseth, Trump administration, Middle East deployment, college sports, House settlement, NCAA, Los Angeles riots, J.D. Vance, Gavin Newsom, LAPD, polarization, Apple, Liquid Glass, AI innovation, protest poll

In this week's political roundtable, Hancock and Kelley examine the growing protest movements across the U.S. and ask: Are we reliving the tensions of the 1960s? The duo explores the historical parallels, the role of extremism in modern politics, and whether America's increasing polarization could lead to something more dangerous. Plus, a sharp look at unchecked executive power and how low voter turnout is shifting political outcomes in primaries.

Can blockchain tech reinvent journalism—and reduce toxic political polarization in the process? In this episode, Zachary Elwood talks with Don Templeman, founder of Aemula, a radically new kind of news platform. Inspired by the decentralization and transparency of cryptocurrency and other blockchain-based technologies, Aemula aims to create a trustless, bias-resistant newsroom of the future—one where algorithms are public, incentives reward nuance, and toxic polarization is nudged downward by design. Whether you're a blockchain skeptic or a media reform enthusiast, this is a conversation about what's broken in journalism—and one bold idea for fixing it. Learn more at aemula.com. Learn more about this podcast at behavior-podcast.com. Learn more and sign up for a premium subscription at PeopleWhoReadPeople.com.

384 Caring For Our Communities   In todays episode Sarah Elkins and Amy Daughters discuss a variety of topics, from finding their calm, to how they try to reach out to those in need of a friend, and the various ways they make others in their lives feel seen.   Highlights Where do you find your calm? Polarization and how it destroys our community. How do you make people feel seen?   Quotes “I didn't set out to do anything. I set out to be some crazy person who wants to write people letters.” “I will save your letter in a special place in my home for the rest of my life.”   About Amy Amy Weinland Daughters, Award-Winning Author and Keynote Speaker, believes in a world where what makes us different is the very thing that connects us, instead of separates us. She brings that world to life by helping people reconnect to each other through the power of hand-written letters. She brings her wit, humor, and having written 580 handwritten letters to every single one of her Facebook friends, to show you how you can find deep connections in some of the most unexpected places. Be sure to check out Amy's LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram!   About Sarah "Uncovering the right stories for the right audiences so executives, leaders, public speakers, and job seekers can clearly and actively demonstrate their character, values, and vision." In my work with coaching clients, I guide people to improve their communication using storytelling as the foundation of our work together. What I've realized over years of coaching and podcasting is that the majority of people don't realize the impact of the stories they share - on their internal messages, and on the people they're sharing them with. My work with leaders and people who aspire to be leaders follows a similar path to the interviews on my podcast, uncovering pivotal moments in their lives and learning how to share them to connect more authentically with others, to make their presentations and speaking more engaging, to reveal patterns that have kept them stuck or moved them forward, and to improve their relationships at work and at home. The audiobook, Your Stories Don't Define You, How You Tell Them Will is now available! Included with your purchase are two bonus tracks, songs recorded by Sarah's band, Spare Change, in her living room in Montana. Be sure to check out the Storytelling For Professionals Course as well to make sure you nail that next interview!

How can the church learn from the newsroom? In this episode, Loren welcomes veteran journalist and media executive Suzanne Nadell to explore what faith leaders can gain from the world of communications. Drawing from her decades of experience in newsrooms across the country, Suzanne reflects on her own faith journey as a preacher's kid, the challenge of navigating polarization, and how churches can better engage their communities by leading with grace, truth, and thoughtful storytelling. Suzanne shares lessons from her book Wired to Lead, discusses the importance of creating inclusive tables in church spaces, and reveals how spiritual practices like Sabbath and attentiveness to the Holy Spirit have shaped her in both professional and personal life. Whether you're a pastor, lay leader, or simply curious about the overlap between faith and media, this episode offers rich insights on leading well in divided times. Topics Covered: Suzanne's faith story as a preacher's kid who found her own faith in adulthood Lessons from the newsroom that church leaders should embrace Why churches must get out of their cultural bubbles Communicating hard truths with kindness How Sabbath is an act of trust in God Building healthier boundaries in a 24/7 world Tips for better communication and storytelling in church Why Suzanne finds inspiration in Priscilla and other overlooked women in scripture Her hope for a less politically divided and more community-rooted church Mentioned Resources:

How can you stay present to a world that breaks your heart open—without hardening or turning away? What is right action when there is no right answer?In this episode, Jennifer talks with Joshin Byrnes—Zen teacher, former AIDS activist, and founder of Bread Loaf Mountain Zen Community—for a deeply honest conversation on his evolving expressions of activism and spirituality as he wrestles with and practices ethical action in a time of trouble.  Together, they explore:Growing out of enemy oriented and dehumanizing activism“Bearing witness” as essential practice in a culture of separation How letting go of fixed ideas creates healing action The Zen principle of vowing mind as a compass for ethical responsiveness.Come join us for a slow and tender dialogue about how to deepen your relational intimacy, practice and ethical inquiry as you taste the ache of being human. Content Note: This episode includes a story that references suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. Resources are included below. Links & resources—Learn more about Joshin Byrne's work at Bread Loaf Mountain ZenZen Peacemakers Get Jennifer's Substack NewsletterFollow Jennifer on Instagram or LinkedInCanada Suicide Crisis Helpline: 9-8-8 or https://988.ca/US Crisis Helpline: 9-8-8 or https://988lifeline.org/International suicide resources can be found at https://findahelpline.com Gratitude for this show's theme song Inside the House, composed by the talented Yukon musician, multi-instrumentalist and sound artist Jordy Walker. Artwork by the imaginative writer, filmmaker and artist Jon Marro.

In this episode, A'ndre speaks with retired four-star General Stanley McChrystal, former commander of Joint Special Operations Command and the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan. Widely recognized for revolutionizing modern counterinsurgency strategy and interagency counterterrorism operations, McChrystal reflects on a lifetime of leadership, failure, resilience, and personal growth through the lens of his new book, On Character: Choices That Define a Life.The conversation begins with McChrystal's reflections on the defining moment of his resignation from the military and how it reshaped his understanding of identity, accountability, and integrity. He speaks candidly about navigating fear and how it presents itself in warfare and political polarization. General McChrystal also discusses leadership and accountability, drawing on the examples of prior military leaders such as General Dwight D. Eisenhower.Topics covered include:The personal reckoning after his resignation and how it redefined his understanding of characterLeading through fear, uncertainty, and moral complexityHow belief systems and perception shape conflict, politics, and leadershipBridging division in a polarized society and restoring trust through integrityYou can purchase On Character here.

Too Much Polarization: Trump vs. Elon • The Todd Coconato Show Website: www.PastorTodd.org To support: www.ToddCoconato.com/give Right now, all over social media, all over X, and just about everywhere in the conservative movement, everywhere in the world, people are watching a horrific feud between two former friends, the president of the United States, the most powerful man in the world and the richest man in the world. Steve Bannon has been sounding the alarm on Elon and most people with discernment at least have some questions with regard to Elon Musk. A total rift has formed between President Trump and Elon Musk. We discuss this and much more on tonight's Todd Coconato Show! Don't miss it!      

On the sixty-second episode of the Constitutionalist, Ben, Shane, and Matthew discuss the Mayflower Compact, and its implications for American political life as one of the nation's earliest constitutional compacts. We want to hear from you! Constitutionalistpod@gmail.com The Constitutionalist is proud to be sponsored by the Jack Miller Center for Teaching America's Founding Principles and History. For the last twenty years, JMC has been working to preserve and promote that tradition through a variety of programs at the college and K-12 levels. Through their American Political Tradition Project, JMC has partnered with more than 1,000 scholars at over 300 college campuses across the country, especially through their annual Summer Institutes for graduate students and recent PhDs. The Jack Miller Center is also working with thousands of K-12 educators across the country to help them better understand America's founding principles and history and teach them effectively, to better educate the next generation of citizens. JMC has provided thousands of hours of professional development for teachers all over the country, reaching millions of students with improved civic learning. If you care about American education and civic responsibility, you'll want to check out their work, which focuses on reorienting our institutions of learning around America's founding principles. To learn more or get involved, visit jackmillercenter.org. The Constitutionalist is a podcast co-hosted by Professor Benjamin Kleinerman, the RW Morrison Professor of Political Science at Baylor University and Founder and Editor of The Constitutionalist Blog, Shane Leary, a graduate student at Baylor University, and Dr. Matthew Reising, a John and Daria Barry Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Princeton University. Each week, they discuss political news in light of its constitutional implications, and explore a unique constitutional topic, ranging from the thoughts and experiences of America's founders and statesmen, historical episodes, and the broader philosophic ideas that influence the American experiment in government.

We hate each other more than we used to, at least where politics is concerned. Measures of effective polarization, the animosity that Democrats have for Republicans and vice versa, have increased dramatically since the 1990s, according to a 2021 study by political scientists James Druckman and Jeremy Levy. Moreover, the most polarized folks are the ones most likely to vote in primaries, resulting in more extreme general election candidates, which further polarize voters, and so on. Boston University professor Jacob Brown, PhD '22 says that where we live shapes the political party we join and the candidates we vote for. The places we grow up shape our views and social pressure influences our affiliations. Moreover, when we change neighborhoods or our neighborhoods change around us, our party ID can change too. That fact—that our affiliations are not necessarily set in stone, but can shift as the people and places around us do—may offer some hope for the future of civic life in The United States . . . if we know what to do with it. 

Tom welcomes back Greg Weldon, a seasoned financial market veteran and publisher of The Global Macro Strategy Report . They discuss the critical themes shaping the global economy in 2025. Highlighting Scott Bessent's remarks, Weldon explains that the U.S. government will never default on its debt, and instead will perpetually devalue the currency to service its obligations. He warns that the country has however crossed a "macro event horizon," where it is trapped in a gravitational pull of debt that grows unsustainably relative to GDP. Weldon points to $54 trillion in combined public and household debt—186% of GDP—as evidence of this precarious situation. With foreign buyers losing appetite for U.S. assets, the Fed may become the last resort buyer of Treasuries, perpetuating the cycle of money printing. He notes that foreign ownership of U.S. bonds remains low, leaving domestic institutions to absorb much of the burden. The conversation delves into inflation and its drivers. Weldon argues that while energy prices remain subdued due to base effects, food inflation and service sector pressures pose significant risks. He also questions whether higher inflation expectations can be anchored, given the Fed's challenges in balancing monetary policy with economic growth. Weldon predicts that the Fed will increasingly prioritize preventing debt deflation over controlling inflation, leading to further dollar depreciation. Weldon expresses skepticism about a gold-backed dollar or bond solution, noting that U.S. gold reserves are insufficient to cover deficits meaningfully. Instead, he highlights gold and silver as potential beneficiaries of currency debasement, with silver poised for a breakout after years of underperformance. He also touches on global trends, such as Europe's rise as a safer haven and the BRICS nations' growing interest in dollar system alternatives. Ultimately, Weldon paints a picture of a world teetering on debt-driven instability, where central banks are forced to choose between reflating economies or facing collapse. Time Stamp References:0:00 - Introduction0:45 - Bessent & Default Risk4:55 - Moody's Downgrade7:12 - U.S. Debt Refinancing9:40 - Foreign Debt Buyers?12:20 - Japan's Bond Issues15:03 - Solutions & Gold Std?16:55 - Equities & Silver20:30 - The Fed Catch 2224:25 - Fwd Inflation Drivers?27:54 - Debt Saturation & Ceilings34:50 - Polarization & Extremes38:50 - Wrap Up Guest Links:Website: https://www.weldononline.com/X: https://x.com/WeldonLIVEMoney Podcast: https://x.com/money_podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GregoryWeldonE-Mail: sales@weldononline.com Greg Weldon is a veteran in the global financial markets industry with over 40 years of experience. He started his career as a floor trader on the COMEX and later worked as a broker for Lehman Brothers and Prudential Securities. He then became a proprietary money manager for hedge funds Moore Capital Management and Commodities Corporation. In 1998, he founded Weldon Financial and has been producing independent research ever since. His clients include top hedge funds, banks, government agencies, and individual investors. WeldonLIVE, his flagship service, provides a comprehensive market research report, including live commentary. The service covers global economic reports, supply-demand fundamentals, monetary trends, and their impact on stock, bond, currency, and commodity markets. Weldon combines a top-down macro approach with technical analysis to offer a broad view of market trends. He provides market recommendations in sectors such as stock indexes, metals, currencies, fixed-income, energy, and commodities.

Based on a survey of over 1,000 PR professionals, the 2025 Global Communication Report from the USC Center for Public Relations –in conjunction with Zeno Group and IABC – reviews how AI, hybrid work, generational shifts, influencer culture, and polarization are reshaping public relations. To download the report, go to this linkTo find information about the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), go to this linkKey Takeaways from the Discussion:Public relations is entering a new era—driven by technology, authenticity, and the influence of a younger, more optimistic generation.AI in PR: Embraced as a powerful tool, not a replacement for human creativityHybrid Work: Redefining mentorship, collaboration, and team cultureShifting Trust: Younger audiences rely more on influencers than traditional mediaSkills for the Future: Media literacy and AI training are now essentialPolarization: A rising challenge that demands thoughtful communicationGen Z's Impact: Advocating for purpose-driven, inclusive, and authentic PR A production of the USC Annenberg Center for Public Relations at the University of Southern California.Host, Fred CookExecutive Producer, Ron AntonetteSeason 6 Producers, Javiera Contreras, Anahita Mehra, Joe Carreon, Marshall WinfieldCreated by ZaZu Lippert LINKSFollow the USC Center for PR (@usccenterforpr) on Instagram and LinkedIn. Follow Fred Cook on LinkedIn. Find all our reports at annenberg.usc.edu/cpr.

We explore the future of inclusive leadership with Kelli Lester, co-founder of Onyx Rising. Zoë opens with reflections on ageing, robotics in aged care, and the value of connection. And introduces Kelli, who shares insight on navigating today's polarised workplace and equipping leaders for diverse, resilient teams. Kelli unpacks the backlash against DEI programs, reframing them as essential business strategies rather than politically charged mandates. She explores how organisations can move beyond performative initiatives by anchoring their diversity efforts in clear objectives—be it talent, innovation, or community alignment. This conversation covers emotional and cultural intelligence, generational divides, psychological safety, and the systemic barriers to inclusion. Practical frameworks like Kelli's seven inclusive leadership traits provide a tangible pathway to fostering a thriving, human-centred workplace. SHOWNOTES are here: https://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leading-through-difference Planet Human: Robots in aged care boost retention by reducing carer injuries and burnout. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1069918 Kickstarter link: Support Power Games: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/zoerouth/power-games-stop-toxic-power-in-the-workplace Key Quotes: “Maps are helpful, but they are not the territory.” – Zoë Routh “Inclusive leadership is not just nice to have. It's the future of leadership.” – Kelli Lester “Any time you don't share your thoughts, you're hurting the company.” – Kelli Lester “Just because someone's pro-Black doesn't mean they're anti-white.” – Kelli Lester Questions Asked: Why is there so much resistance to DEI in today's climate? How can leaders reframe diversity as a business enabler? What are the seven traits of inclusive leadership? How do we build psychological safety and trust across generations? What does it take to dismantle systemic bias in hiring and promotion? Take Action: Self-Audit: Reflect on your own lens—what influences how you see the world, and how does that shape your leadership? Amplify Voices: In your next meeting, actively include perspectives from quieter or less-represented team members. Define It Clearly: Have a leadership-level conversation about what diversity, equity, and inclusion means in your context and why it matters. Tip of the Week Facilitate a “Bias Interrupt” session: Identify where decisions are being made based on assumptions—hiring, promotions, even meeting invitations—and ask, “Who's missing and why?” Key Moments 00:00 Introduction and Weekly Question 00:15 Robots in Nursing Care Homes 02:07 Kickstarter Campaign for Power Games 03:48 Understanding Human Behavior and Categorization 07:27 Inclusive Leadership with Kelly Lester 08:26 Challenges and Misconceptions of DEI 28:48 America's Mythmaking and Cultural Conflicts 30:23 Polarization and Political Correctness 34:27 The Importance of Self-Awareness and Valuing Differences 37:49 Promoting Psychological Safety and Amplifying Voices 40:25 Emotional and Cultural Intelligence in Leadership 41:49 Managing Inclusively and Effective Mentoring 45:49 Fast Three Questions with Kelly 50:01 Book Recommendation: Why Are We Yelling? 51:05 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Changes  

On the sixty-first episode, Shane and Ben are joined by Joseph Natali, a Ph.D. student at Baylor University dissertating on the constitutionalism of bureaucracy and how Presidents succeed or fail in exercising control over the executive branch. We want to hear from you! Constitutionalistpod@gmail.com The Constitutionalist is proud to be sponsored by the Jack Miller Center for Teaching America's Founding Principles and History. For the last twenty years, JMC has been working to preserve and promote that tradition through a variety of programs at the college and K-12 levels. Through their American Political Tradition Project, JMC has partnered with more than 1,000 scholars at over 300 college campuses across the country, especially through their annual Summer Institutes for graduate students and recent PhDs. The Jack Miller Center is also working with thousands of K-12 educators across the country to help them better understand America's founding principles and history and teach them effectively, to better educate the next generation of citizens. JMC has provided thousands of hours of professional development for teachers all over the country, reaching millions of students with improved civic learning. If you care about American education and civic responsibility, you'll want to check out their work, which focuses on reorienting our institutions of learning around America's founding principles. To learn more or get involved, visit jackmillercenter.org. The Constitutionalist is a podcast cohosted by Professor Benjamin Kleinerman, the RW Morrison Professor of Political Science at Baylor University and Founder and Editor of The Constitutionalist Blog, Shane Leary, a graduate student at Baylor University, and Dr. Matthew K. Reising, a John and Daria Barry Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Princeton University. Each week, they discuss political news in light of its constitutional implications, and explore a unique constitutional topic, ranging from the thoughts and experiences of America's founders and statesmen, historical episodes, and the broader philosophic ideas that influence the American experiment in government.

Send Wilk a text with your feedback!Replay: Polarization – The Issue of Our Time (feat. John Wood Jr.)This week, I'm re-sharing a powerful episode from the DTH archives during a little family downtime. In this classic, I sat down with my good friend and Braver Angels National Ambassador, John Wood Jr., to tackle what may be the greatest challenge facing our country: polarization.We discuss:Why polarization prevents progress on all other issuesHow to better engage with people who think differentlyThe dangers of whataboutism and political panderingWhy long-term thinking beats short-term outrageJohn brings the kind of insight and calm conviction that's rare in today's divided landscape. This episode is packed with value—don't miss it!

“Humans are not rational beings with emotions. In fact, we're just the opposite. We're emotionally based beings who can only think rationally when we feel that our identities, as we see them, are understood and valued by others.”Those words from neuroscientist Bob Deutch triggered a lightbulb moment in the mind of Tim Phillips, a veteran peacebuilder and educator.  Over the past twelve years, Phillips has worked with neuroscientists and psychologists to integrate brain science into research and practice at Beyond Conflict, the peacebuilding organization that he founded in 1991 and where he serves as CEO. In this conversation, we focus on Beyond Conflict's research on dehumanization. If you perceive another person or group as less than human, it's much easier to justify violence against that group or person. Dehumanizing rhetoric – like describing people as animals or vermin – is often a precursor to violence.  But Phillips says if we can identify signs of dehumanization early on, we can make changes to decrease the likelihood of violent conflict. Phillips and host Jamil Simon also discuss the difference between fear and disgust – both motivators of conflict that are each processed differently in the brain and require different interventions. Plus, how Beyond Conflict has applied this research to create media interventions in Nigeria and the United States. And, how journalists can utilize knowledge of how the brain works to reach more people and avoid incitement. This episode was originally published in April 2024.LEARN MOREWatch the video “America's Divided Mind” by Beyond ConflictRead key takeaways from Beyond Conflict's research on dehumanizationRead Beyond Conflict's Decoding Dehumanization policy brief Listen to our episode with psychologist Donna Hicks: “Dignity: A new way to look at conflict”Watch “How to Grow Peace Journalism” webinars from the George Washington University Media and Peacebuilding Project. Presentations from Making Peace Visible host Jamil Simon, education director Steven Youngblood, and  producer Andrea Muraskin in this video..  ABOUT THE SHOW The Making Peace Visible podcast is hosted by Jamil Simon and produced by Andrea Muraskin. Our associate producer is Faith McClure. Learn more at makingpeacevisible.orgSupport our work Connect on social:Instagram @makingpeacevisibleLinkedIn @makingpeacevisibleBluesky @makingpeacevisible.bsky.social We want to learn more about our listeners. Take this 3-minute survey to help us improve the show!

Authors Marcus Mann and Daniel Winchester discuss the article "Beyond Polarization: Right-Wing News as a Quasi-religious Phenomenon," published in the June 2025 issue of Sociological Theory. 

Is green a red and blue construct? Put another way, is there a political partisan divide over the environment? That's a particularly interesting question, no doubt more so in recent years as the country seems to have drifted farther and farther apart because of our political beliefs. To that point, a reader reached out the other day to say our stories shouldn't be negative on the Trump Administration because the national parks are going to need the help of all of us - Democrats, Republicans, Independents, and everything in-between - to survive. But are environmental issues highly partisan? For the Traveler's purpose, we'll define “environmental issues” as those focused on public lands, wildlife, clean air, clean water, and of course the national parks. To help us try to answer that question, our guest today is Caleb Scoville, a professor at Tufts University who has received an Andrew Carnegie fellowship to explore that question.

On the sixtieth episode, Matthew and Ben are joined by Shilo Brooks, Executive Director of the James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions at Princeton University, to discuss his immensely popular course "The Art of Statesmanship and the Political Life." We want to hear from you! Constitutionalistpod@gmail.com The Constitutionalist is proud to be sponsored by the Jack Miller Center for Teaching America's Founding Principles and History. For the last twenty years, JMC has been working to preserve and promote that tradition through a variety of programs at the college and K-12 levels. Through their American Political Tradition Project, JMC has partnered with more than 1,000 scholars at over 300 college campuses across the country, especially through their annual Summer Institutes for graduate students and recent PhDs. The Jack Miller Center is also working with thousands of K-12 educators across the country to help them better understand America's founding principles and history and teach them effectively, to better educate the next generation of citizens. JMC has provided thousands of hours of professional development for teachers all over the country, reaching millions of students with improved civic learning. If you care about American education and civic responsibility, you'll want to check out their work, which focuses on reorienting our institutions of learning around America's founding principles. To learn more or get involved, visit jackmillercenter.org. The Constitutionalist is a podcast cohosted by Professor Benjamin Kleinerman, the RW Morrison Professor of Political Science at Baylor University and Founder and Editor of The Constitutionalist Blog, Shane Leary, a graduate student at Baylor University, and Dr. Matthew K. Reising, a John and Daria Barry Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Princeton University. Each week, they discuss political news in light of its constitutional implications, and explore a unique constitutional topic, ranging from the thoughts and experiences of America's founders and statesmen, historical episodes, and the broader philosophic ideas that influence the American experiment in government.

Ever feel awkward in trying to express, connect or attune to another? Ever interpret your awkwardness as a failure? In this short practice episode, Jennifer England invites us to explore mispronunciation not just as a linguistic slip, but as a relational metaphor. Inspired by recent conversations with X'unei Lance Twitchell, you're invited to notice the moments you "miss the mark" in connection—and to consider what might be fertile, even beautiful, in the in-between.You'll be guided through:A reframing of mispronunciation as an opening, not an error.Gentle prompts to explore awkwardness, misunderstanding, and self-expression.A two-part inquiry to help you stay present with the discomfort of “not quite getting it right.”An embodied invitation to soften and stay—instead of fix or retreat.Whether you're navigating a tough moment with a loved one or reflecting on your own self-expression, this episode is a chance to pause and relate differently to misunderstanding itself.Links & resources—For more practices and inspiration from Jennifer get bi-weekly inspiration to help you navigate the hard mess of leading and being humanFollow Jennifer on Instagram or LinkedInTalk with Jennifer! Share an insight or ask a question here jennifer@sparkcoaching.ca Gratitude for this show's theme song Inside the House, composed by the talented Yukon musician, multi-instrumentalist and sound artist Jordy Walker. Artwork by the imaginative writer, filmmaker and artist Jon Marro.

Join our Mailing List - https://www.mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist"Introduction to Regenerative Coffee Farming" is now available On-Demand for as little as $10 - https://mapitforward.coffee/workshops"Biochar for Coffee" is open for pre-registration - https://mapitforward.coffee/workshops"It's Time to Become a Coffee Consultant" is available now with additional new bonus material, including the coffee consultant career map. Get more details on how you can create an alternative revenue stream today at https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsLooking for business advisors or consultants for your business? Get in touch with us here: support@mapitforward.org••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 4th in a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward. Tim Heinze, the Director of Education of the Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI), and host Lee Safar discuss the recent changes announced to the Q Grader program.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. SCA, CQI, and the "Evolved Q" - https://youtu.be/lpaJTxagZq82. Does the Q Need Evolving? - https://youtu.be/k5V-M1jsPUw3. Issues With The 2004 Cupping Form - https://youtu.be/zs7WzpVhRSg4. Why People Are Polarised by The CVA - https://youtu.be/6J-d0mSbjM05. Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI) - https://youtu.be/LsdGyCD8AXYIn this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and Tim discuss the industry's reaction to the recent changes in the Q Grader certification.They explore the polarizing decision by the SCA and CQI to implement new quality evaluation measures during a time of multiple crises in the coffee industry, including price, supply, climate, and logistical issues.The episode features a detailed examination of the challenges faced by industry professionals, the concerns over accessibility and transparency, and the impact on educators and producers.Lee and Tim also address the broader implications of these changes and the need for a balance between certification accessibility and maintaining educational quality.00:00 Introduction to the Polarization in the Coffee Industry00:47 Support and Subscribe to Our Podcast01:10 Welcome and Episode Overview01:22 The Controversial Changes to the Q Program01:33 Cosimo Libardo's Perspective on Industry Changes02:31 Acknowledging the Trauma in Industry Changes03:07 Trust Issues with SCA and CQI04:07 Impact on CQI Instructors and Q Graders04:41 Accessibility and Financial Barriers05:21 Forcing Industry Compliance07:21 Educator and Trainer Dissatisfaction08:29 Quality vs. Accessibility in Education10:10 Professional Development and Certification Challenges11:55 The Real-World Impact on Coffee Professionals19:35 Comparing CVA Certification to CPA26:36 SCA's Role and Industry Expectations27:58 Mastermind Groups and Industry Reflections29:10 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Episode29:32 Closing Remarks and Call to ActionArticle referenced in this series:https://www.comunicaffe.it/cosimo-libardo-board-sca-partnership-cqi/Connect with Tim Heinze and Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI) here:• https://www.instagram.com/sustainable_coffee_institute/• https://www.instagram.com/timheinzesea/• https://www.sci-coffee.com/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailinglist

Words matter. A lot. Kelsey, a highly credentialed licensed psychotherapist and Executive Director of The And Way Center in Austin Texas, is one a mission to promote peace in a divided world by sharing tools that reveal how we speak to ourselves and one another. In this episode Kelsey offers powerful tools that increase our psychological flexibility and promote constructive, heartfelt conversations. We all need more of this.Kelsey's book: The And Way will be released in the fall of 2025.

Join our Mailing List - https://www.mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist"Introduction to Regenerative Coffee Farming" is now available On-Demand for as little as $10 - https://mapitforward.coffee/workshops"Biochar for Coffee" is open for pre-registration - https://mapitforward.coffee/workshops"It's Time to Become a Coffee Consultant" is available now with additional new bonus material, including the coffee consultant career map. Get more details on how you can create an alternative revenue stream today at https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsLooking for business advisors or consultants for your business? Get in touch with us here: support@mapitforward.org••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 4th in a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward. Tim Heinze, the Director of Education of the Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI), and host Lee Safar discuss the recent changes announced to the Q Grader program.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. SCA, CQI, and the "Evolved Q" - https://youtu.be/lpaJTxagZq82. Does the Q Need Evolving? - https://youtu.be/k5V-M1jsPUw3. Issues With The 2004 Cupping Form - https://youtu.be/zs7WzpVhRSg4. Why People Are Polarised by The CVA - https://youtu.be/6J-d0mSbjM05. Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI) - https://youtu.be/LsdGyCD8AXYIn this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and Tim discuss the industry's reaction to the recent changes in the Q Grader certification.They explore the polarizing decision by the SCA and CQI to implement new quality evaluation measures during a time of multiple crises in the coffee industry, including price, supply, climate, and logistical issues.The episode features a detailed examination of the challenges faced by industry professionals, the concerns over accessibility and transparency, and the impact on educators and producers.Lee and Tim also address the broader implications of these changes and the need for a balance between certification accessibility and maintaining educational quality.00:00 Introduction to the Polarization in the Coffee Industry00:47 Support and Subscribe to Our Podcast01:10 Welcome and Episode Overview01:22 The Controversial Changes to the Q Program01:33 Cosimo Libardo's Perspective on Industry Changes02:31 Acknowledging the Trauma in Industry Changes03:07 Trust Issues with SCA and CQI04:07 Impact on CQI Instructors and Q Graders04:41 Accessibility and Financial Barriers05:21 Forcing Industry Compliance07:21 Educator and Trainer Dissatisfaction08:29 Quality vs. Accessibility in Education10:10 Professional Development and Certification Challenges11:55 The Real-World Impact on Coffee Professionals19:35 Comparing CVA Certification to CPA26:36 SCA's Role and Industry Expectations27:58 Mastermind Groups and Industry Reflections29:10 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Episode29:32 Closing Remarks and Call to ActionArticle referenced in this series:https://www.comunicaffe.it/cosimo-libardo-board-sca-partnership-cqi/Connect with Tim Heinze and Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI) here:• https://www.instagram.com/sustainable_coffee_institute/• https://www.instagram.com/timheinzesea/• https://www.sci-coffee.com/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

HR2 Trump's Big Bill, Biden's Hidden Condition, J.T. YOUNG: Polarization, 5-20-25 by John Rush

On the fifty-ninth episode of the Constitutionalist, Ben and Matthew discuss Volume 1, Part 2, Chapter 7 of Alexis De Tocqueville's "Democracy in America" on the omnipotence of the majority. They discuss Tocqueville's warnings of the detrimental effects of democracy on the citizen. We want to hear from you! Constitutionalistpod@gmail.com The Constitutionalist is proud to be sponsored by the Jack Miller Center for Teaching America's Founding Principles and History. For the last twenty years, JMC has been working to preserve and promote that tradition through a variety of programs at the college and K-12 levels. Through their American Political Tradition Project, JMC has partnered with more than 1,000 scholars at over 300 college campuses across the country, especially through their annual Summer Institutes for graduate students and recent PhDs. The Jack Miller Center is also working with thousands of K-12 educators across the country to help them better understand America's founding principles and history and teach them effectively, to better educate the next generation of citizens. JMC has provided thousands of hours of professional development for teachers all over the country, reaching millions of students with improved civic learning. If you care about American education and civic responsibility, you'll want to check out their work, which focuses on reorienting our institutions of learning around America's founding principles. To learn more or get involved, visit jackmillercenter.org. The Constitutionalist is a podcast co-hosted by Professor Benjamin Kleinerman, the RW Morrison Professor of Political Science at Baylor University and Founder and Editor of The Constitutionalist Blog, Shane Leary, a graduate student at Baylor University, and Dr. Matthew Reising, a John and Daria Barry Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Princeton University. Each week, they discuss political news in light of its constitutional implications, and explore a unique constitutional topic, ranging from the thoughts and experiences of America's founders and statesmen, historical episodes, and the broader philosophic ideas that influence the American experiment in government.

In today's episode of Daily Influence, Brian Smith dives into how we can overcome the polarization that's fracturing relationships with friends, family, and associates. Brian shares strategies for leading with curiosity instead of judgment, focusing on shared values, and rebuilding trust through intentional conversations. Learn how to shift from division to connection by listening to understand, emphasizing empathy, and finding common ground. Tune in and discover practical ways to heal divides and strengthen the relationships that matter most.

This week, in my weekly face to face conversations with Americans, I sat down in Northern Virginia with regular guy/expert Brian Murphy, former Marine,FBI, and Homeland Security, to discuss the threats America faces at home and from abroad. Today, we dig into the threat of polarization. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jesus said to him, “What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours? You follow me.”~ John 21:22Why do I get so angry at others' opinions & actions?How am I supposed to handle the evil & falsehood in the world?Why is it easier for me to explain what I'm against than what I'm for?In episode 73 of This Whole Life, hosts Kenna and Pat Millea welcome back Fr. Nathan LaLiberte for a candid conversation about identity, vulnerability, and the subtle trap of living in antithesis—defining ourselves primarily by what we're against. Together, they explore how easy it is to move through life reacting to what we don't like or want, rather than proactively following Christ's invitation to an authentic identity rooted in his love. With honesty and a good dose of humor, the trio reflects on the pitfalls of fear-based living, the grace of following Christ, and the challenge of forging deeper relationships built on shared pursuits rather than shared enemies. From the temptations of social media outrage and cable news to the deeper work of self-reflection and forgiveness, this episode invites listeners to consider what truly forms their identity—and how to embrace a more Christ-centered, joyful life.Episode 73 Show NotesChapters:0:00: Introduction and Highs & Hards16:24: Don't be an antithesis26:34: The temptations & evils of resentment33:07: Recognizing antithesis in my own life42:32: Where am I putting my energy?51:53: The personal invitation to follow Jesus54:19: Challenge By ChoiceReflection Questions:What is one specific thing that stuck with you from this conversation?Is it easier for you to be against things or for Christ?How do media, especially social media, affect your opinions and reactions to others?When have you vowed to "never" be like someone or do something? How did that impact the way that you approached daily life?How can you take practical steps to living for Christ and allowing him to guide your responses to the sins & shortcomings of the world?Send us a text. We're excited to hear what's on your mind!Join the community of supporters of This Whole Life! ❤️

In this episode, we are speaking with Professor Scott Duxbury about his work on group politics and the sociology of punishment.   Scott W. Duxbury is an Associate Professor of sociology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His research examines social networks, criminal law, mass incarceration, racism, public opinion, drug markets, and computational methods. His work has appeared in American Sociological Review, American Journal of Sociology, and Social Forces, among other outlets.

On the fifty-eighth episode, Shane, Matthew, and Ben are joined by William B. Allen, Professor Emeritus of Political Philosophy at Michigan State University, to discuss Montesquieu's political philosophy and its influence on the American Founding and eighteenth-century British politics. We want to hear from you! Constitutionalistpod@gmail.com The Constitutionalist is proud to be sponsored by the Jack Miller Center for Teaching America's Founding Principles and History. For the last twenty years, JMC has been working to preserve and promote that tradition through a variety of programs at the college and K-12 levels. Through their American Political Tradition Project, JMC has partnered with more than 1,000 scholars at over 300 college campuses across the country, especially through their annual Summer Institutes for graduate students and recent PhDs. The Jack Miller Center is also working with thousands of K-12 educators across the country to help them better understand America's founding principles and history and teach them effectively, to better educate the next generation of citizens. JMC has provided thousands of hours of professional development for teachers all over the country, reaching millions of students with improved civic learning. If you care about American education and civic responsibility, you'll want to check out their work, which focuses on reorienting our institutions of learning around America's founding principles. To learn more or get involved, visit jackmillercenter.org. The Constitutionalist is a podcast cohosted by Professor Benjamin Kleinerman, the RW Morrison Professor of Political Science at Baylor University and Founder and Editor of The Constitutionalist Blog, Shane Leary, a graduate student at Baylor University, and Dr. Matthew K. Reising, a John and Daria Barry Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Princeton University. Each week, they discuss political news in light of its constitutional implications, and explore a unique constitutional topic, ranging from the thoughts and experiences of America's founders and statesmen, historical episodes, and the broader philosophic ideas that influence the American experiment in government.

We're back this episode for our second timely interview focusing on political polarization, wrapping up in conversation with Dr. Kurt Gray, professor of moral psychology and neuroscience at UNC Chapel Hill, and the director of the Deepest Beliefs Lab in the Center for the Science of Moral Understanding. Moral psychology is the descriptive understanding of our moral judgments, or concern with not just how people should make moral decisions, but how they actually do. Why does this matter?  In Dr. Gray's words: "To understand our contentious and divided political moments where people are unwilling to discuss politics across the aisle or entertain even that the other side is a reasonable human being in the way that you feel about yourself and your own side. We do disagree already when it comes to politics. But where does this political disagreement come from? …Once you get that, then you can understand where this political animosity comes from. But it's really a question of moral disagreement. And for that you need to understand our moral psychology.” Read the transcript of this episode
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We have a Problem. We are content. In this message, Pastor Cynthia Bryan stirs us to become desperate rather than content.Our problem with contentment is that we are content with the wrong things.We are content with occasionally praying, occasionally reading our bibles, and gathering as believers when we feel like it.We are apathetic and distracted about the things of God.Once I heard the stories, I couldn't be content anymore. Have you heard about the Welsh national revival of 1904-05? 150,000 people came to Christ in the first 6 months. Azusa Street 1906: For more than 3 years the cloud of God's glory rested on a humble building call the Azusa Street Mission. 100's of 1,000's of people came from around the world and were filled with the Holy Spirit. In the Hebrides Islands of Scotland, in 1949, the power of God fell. This Outpouring of the Holy Spirit spread through the islands and within weeks every church was filled to capacity. Are we aware of the desperate situation we and our community are in?This is a desperate time that we live in:Wars and rumors of wars, News of the threat of terrorism and war.Uncertainty, Polarization, hate, Anger, rage and Accusation1 Peter 5:8 NLT  2 Cor 4:18 NIVWe are in desperate times among desperate people who don't know where to turn. But you cannot be desperate FOR something until you know it exists.When you hear the stories, you realize that the Holy Spirit still moves today like He did in the book of Acts.Let's look at Acts chapter 2:2-6,38,41Desperate people were told to wait in the city to be baptized with the Holy Spirit. But, can God do it again? Can the Holy Spirit move in a way to yield another spiritual awakening and transform culture?Here is the good news:A Desperate Time is the perfect time for the Holy Spirit to move; We are in a time now just like other times prior to great outpourings of the Spirit.When Christians recognize they are in desperate times, they take desperate measures.Seek (implies desperation, commitment, earnestness) the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near; Isaiah 55:6 ESVWhy do we need awakening?                For our families, for our neighbors, for our community, for our nation. For the young person contemplating suicide, for the lost and depressed, for the hopeless, for those who are dying without hope.“For I will pour water on him who is thirsty, and floods on the dry ground; I will pour out My Spirit on your descendants, and My blessing on your offspring.” Isaiah 44:3 NKJV Desperate Measures:                Feed the sense of desperation:                Repentance: Clean hands and a pure heart.               Prayer, crying out to God for our families, our region, our nation.               Fasting – humble yourself               Be a bold witness. What desperate measure is the Lord asking of you?