Can we bridge the partisan divide and have constructive dialogue about politics and religion with "them" - people who have different beliefs about democracy, politics and religion? Are we able to simply have civil, civic conversations?
(We're grateful to have a number of new listeners. So we thought it'd be good to revisit this episode that was first aired just after the inauguration.)
In this edition, host Corey Nathan explores how we can have meaningful, respectful, and productive conversations with those who think differently from us—politically, religiously, and ideologically. After four years of hosting the show and speaking with a wide array of guests, Corey shares his own insights, offering seven practical tools (plus a bonus tip) for engaging with “one of them” in a way that fosters connection rather than division.
What Is Discussed⏳ [00:02:00] – Reviews from listeners: the good, the bad, and the constructive
⏳ [00:05:00] – The purpose of this episode: sharing tools for engaging with "one of them"
⏳ [00:06:00] – Tool #1: Grace – Accepting that we will all make mistakes in these conversations
⏳ [00:09:00] – Tool #2: Proper Expectations – Why we shouldn't expect to change someone's mind 180 degrees
⏳ [00:12:00] – Tool #3: Asking Questions – Learning from Jesus' approach of responding with questions
⏳ [00:20:00] – Tool #4: Storytelling – The power of narrative in understanding each other as human beings
⏳ [00:25:00] – Tool #5: Being Open to "I Never Thought of It That Way" Moments
⏳ [00:32:00] – Tool #6: Recognizing Your Line – Knowing when to step away from an unhealthy dynamic
⏳ [00:35:00] – Tool #7: Equipping Yourself – Books, organizations, and resources for learning how to engage better
⏳ [00:38:00] – Bonus Tip: Taking Care of Yourself – Mental, emotional, and physical well-being in this work
📢 “Give yourself grace. You’re not going to get it right every time.”
📢 “If we ask the right question, it allows that person, instead of being in a posture of combat, to tell their story.”
📢 “Trying to inform, like trying to win, can get in the way of trying to listen.” – Monica Guzmán (as quoted in the episode)
📢 “People are mysteries, not puzzles.” – Monica Guzmán
📖 Books:
🌍 Organizations:
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🔹 Now go talk some politics and religion—but with gentleness and respect. 💡
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