Talkin‘ Politics & Religion Without Killin‘ Each Other

Some folks are worried about the conflicts of certain SCOTUS Justices (and their wives). Some are buying into conspiracy theories that have been distilled into talking points about a "weaponized Department of Justice." So we're taking a step back to say, "Relax. The judiciary branch is actually working well."   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review: https://ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics    In this episode, we start out with a brief assessment of conversations around Israel, the protests and review this complex set of issues. But then we get into concerns related to the U.S. judiciary's actions, including cases from January 6th and high-profile trials involving Donald Trump. Despite some flaws, the judiciary is functioning well. So we highlight instances where the justice system upheld democratic principles. We also cover misconceptions about media consumption among different political factions and how that skews our understanding of important events.    01:48 Personal Reflections and Challenges in Civil Discourse;  03:36 Navigating Political Nuances and Campus Protests;  04:27 Examining the Anti-Left Sentiment and Media Ecosystem;  06:47 Debunking DOJ Weaponization Claims and Judicial Integrity;  10:24 Insight into January 6th Cases and the Judicial Process;  25:02 Analyzing the Judiciary's Role in Upholding Democracy;  36:03 Concluding Thoughts on Political and Religious Dialogue   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Very grateful for our sponsor Meza Wealth Management. Reach out to Jorge and his team: www.mezawealth.com   x.com/MacFarlaneNews

Can we learn to disagree with empathy and respect? Yes we can. And if you disagree with that, you're wrong... JK ;-)   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review: https://ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics    Dr. John Inazu is a law professor and political theorist who teaches at Washington University in St. Louis, where he is the Sally D. Danforth Distinguished Professor of Law and Religion. He teaches criminal law, law and religion, and various First Amendment courses. He writes and speaks frequently about pluralism, assembly, free speech, religious freedom, and other issues. John has written three books and published opinion pieces in the Washington Post, The Atlantic, Chicago Tribune, LA Times, USA Today, Newsweek, and CNN. Professor Inazu’s latest book is Learning to Disagree: The Surprising Path to Navigating Differences with Empathy and Respect which we discuss on this edition of TP&R.   00:59 Exploring Empathy and Disagreement with Dr. John Inazu;  13:41 The Practice of Empathy in Disagreement;  28:02 Understanding First Amendment Rights and Campus Protests;  32:36 Exploring Civil Disobedience and Its Consequences;  33:34 Personal Reflections: Reconnecting and Forgiving;  38:04 Navigating Difficult Conversations and Disagreements;  41:25 Choosing the Right Time and Place;  47:03 The Complexities of Faith, Patriotism, and Forgiveness;  57:30 Musical Influences and the Power of Jazz;  01:00:59 Closing Thoughts and How to Follow the Work   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Very grateful for our sponsor Meza Wealth Management. Reach out to Jorge and his team: www.mezawealth.com   johninazu.substack.com/   www.amazon.com/Learning-Disagree-Surprising-Navigating-Differences/dp/0310368014

Tim Alberta is not only an excellent writer, he's also a practicing Christian and the son of an Evangelical pastor. So it's no wonder his recent book THE KINGDOM, THE POWER AND THE GLORY struck such a nerve as it "paints an expansive and profoundly troubling portrait of the American evangelical movement."   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review: https://ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics    We're joined by Tim Alberta upon the publication of his new book, The Kingdom, The Power and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism. After starting out with some fun banter about Tim's beloved Detroit Lions and veering off into kids' names, we delve into weighty topics such as whether Tim still considers himself an #evangelical - more specifically, if there are aspects of his faith he's begun to question. Much of this conversation is about the new book: "The main thing is no longer the main thing" for so many megachurch pastors; Donald Trump is "a creation of the culture gone crazy" (especially in the American Evangelical church); whether hucksters like Trump and Paula White, when they're behind closed doors, laugh at all their "suckers" that buy into their various schemes; who Tim thinks is the audience for THE KINGDOM, THE POWER, AND THE GLORY - and who he hopes the audience is; and we get to hear some input from Charles Mingus the 3rd!   Tim Alberta is a staff writer for The Atlantic and the former chief political correspondent for Politico, and has written for dozens of other publications, including the Wall Street Journal, Sports Illustrated, and Vanity Fair. He is the author of the New York Times bestseller American Carnage: On the Front Lines of the Republican Civil War and the Rise of President Trump and the newly released The Kingdom, The Power and the Glory. He co-moderated the final Democratic presidential debate of 2019 and frequently appears as a commentator on television programs in the United States and around the world. And as listeners will quickly learn, Tim is a big time Detroit Lions fan.   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Very grateful for our sponsor Meza Wealth Management. Reach out to Jorge and his team: www.mezawealth.com   www.bytimalberta.com/   www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Power-Glory-Evangelicals-Extremism/dp/006322688X   www.theatlantic.com/author/tim-alberta/

On today’s edition, we shook it up a bit. Rachel Bitecofer, Ph.D. has dissected well-worn tactics that today’s Republican Party deploys with a great deal of success. Her latest book HIT ‘EM WHERE IT HURTS is about how to “beat Republicans at their own game.” As former RNC Chair, Michael Steele, has said, “Democrats and Republicans who care about democracy would be wise to pay attention to her work.” (Yeah, you read that correct and it wasn't a typo - that's from the guy who used to head up the Republican National Committee.)   Rachel Bitecofer is a political scientist and election forecaster turned political strategist. You may have seen her interviews and analysis in such outlets as The New York Times, The Washington Post, Salon, Politico, The New Republic, Real Time with Bill Maher, CNN, MSNBC, and many other prominent news sources. She worked with Democratic Party candidates and organizations to implement negative partisanship strategy in the 2022 midterms. Rachel is also the author of HIT ‘EM WHERE IT HURTS: HOW TO SAVE DEMOCRACY BY BEATING REPUBLICANS AT THEIR OWN GAME. But she came to prominence way before all this when she predicted the size (to the seat) of the Democrats’ Blue Wave in the 2018 midterms.   00:54 Spotlight on Rachel Bitecofer: From Political Scientist to Strategist;  01:49 The 2018 Midterm Predictions and Political Shifts;  05:31 Analyzing the 2024 Election Risks and Trump's Influence;  08:23 The Urgency of Understanding Project 2025;  15:16 Rachel Bitecofer's Personal Journey and Academic Background;  20:29 Strategies for the Democratic Party: A New Approach;  36:22 The Role of Journalism and Media in Democracy;  38:22 The Impact of Right-Wing Ecosystem on Public Belief;  38:41 The Role of Donald Trump in Shaping Public Distrust;  39:12 Manipulation of Journalism and Public Perception;  39:49 The Strategy Behind Republican Messaging;  40:59 Observing Real-Time Messaging During the Mar-a-Lago Raid;  41:14 The Power of Unified Messaging in Politics;  41:41 Media's Role in Legitimizing Questionable Narratives;  42:35 Challenging the Normalization of Extremism;  45:47 The Art of Electoral War: Strategies and Countermeasures;  47:14 Tackling Misinformation and Strategic Messaging;  59:46 Engaging in Political Conversations: Strategies and Insights;  01:01:50 Effective Communication Across Political Divides   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review: https://ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics    Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Very grateful for our sponsor Meza Wealth Management. Reach out to Jorge and his team: www.mezawealth.com   https://www.hitemwhereithurts.com/    https://twitter.com/RachelBitecofer    And please remember that review: https://ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics 

We all have opinions. And there are more ways than ever to voice those opinions. But before expressing those opinions, have we really taken the time to understand the complexity of any given issue? More specifically, have we taken the time to speak with and consider the views of folks who are on the “other side” of that issue?   In this edition, we’ll be looking at the widespread phenomenon of campus protests across the country and the world. The initial plan was to compare campus protesters to January 6th insurrectionists; but instead, it was more valuable to explore the topic more thoughtfully, aiming to avoid fueling conflicts. So we examine diverse aspects of protests, including their objectives, the media's focus on sensational aspects (“nut picking”), and the potential ineffectiveness of disruptive tactics as well as the historical record that indicates how many such protests ultimately did more harm than good to their own cause. It was helpful to share the personal account from a friend who participated in peaceful demonstrations, offering insights into the protesters' perspectives and demands. We also review the importance of understanding and respecting the rights to free speech and assembly while considering reasonable restraints on those rights such as “time, place and manner” restrictions, as well as the impacts of protests on broader society. More broadly, it’s important to emphasize the need for balanced and informed conversations around contentious issues, advocating for empathy and open-mindedness in evaluating differing viewpoints.   01:31 A Deep Dive into Campus Protests;  05:58 Exploring the Other Side: Conversations with a Protest Participant;  07:43 Understanding the Demands and Goals of Campus Protests;  11:04 Reflecting on Free Speech and Its Complexities;  27:45 The Role of Universities in Nurturing Democracy;  35:26 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement for Dialogue   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Very grateful for our sponsor Meza Wealth Management. Reach out to Jorge and his team: www.mezawealth.com   David French's 4/28/24 NYT piece "Colleges Have Gone off the Deep End. There Is a Way Out." https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/28/opinion/protests-college-free-speech.html   David Brooks 5/2/24 NYT piece "Why the Protests Help Trump" https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/02/opinion/student-protests-trump.html   Free Speech Center article on "time, place and manner" restrictions: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/02/opinion/student-protests-trump.html    If Not Now Org - https://www.instagram.com/ifnotnoworg/ 

With Nikki Haley having dropped out of the race for the Republican nomination for president, why is she still getting so many votes in primaries all over the country? Even though it's been months since Haley suspended her campaign, she still gets significant percentages of the vote in the Republican primary contest. So where will those Haley voters turn in the general election? Robert Schwartz, the Co-founder and Senior Advisor to Haley Voters for Biden, is joining in a sweeping effort to persuade Nikki Haley supporters to vote for President Joe Biden this fall.   With a background in foreign affairs as a public policy professional focused on authoritarian regimes, Robert has a better understanding than many of what's at stake in 2024. So we were glad that he joined us to better understand this bloc of voters and so much more. Robert shares his journey from a politically curious teenager to a major advocate for bipartisan dialogue and action; his role in foreign policy and his time at Harvard's public policy program; and his efforts to promote democratic values against the backdrop of rising authoritarian tendencies. We also discuss the strategies and motivations behind the Haley Voters for Biden initiative, aiming to mobilize support among Republicans and independents who are disillusioned with Donald Trump's leadership. Then we get real as we explore the challenges facing American democracy, the potential impact of third-party candidates, and strategies for engaging voters across the political spectrum in meaningful conversations.   01:16 Introduction: Robert Schwartz, Co-Founder HV4B;  05:17 Navigating Political Philosophy and Activism;  08:17 Concerns Over American Democracy's Stability;  10:35 Exploring the Impact of Project 2025 and Political Strategies;  20:22 Analyzing the Republican Primary and Voter Dynamics;  29:23 Strategic Messaging and Targeting for Political Influence;  38:10 Decoding the Political Strategy: The Plus Two Concept;  41:00 The Swing State Focus: Key States in the Presidential Election;  58:26 The Challenge of Third-Party Voters in Swing States;  01:06:35 Engaging Across Political Divides: Strategies for Conversation   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Very grateful for our sponsor Meza Wealth Management. Reach out to Jorge and his team: www.mezawealth.com   www.haleyvotersforbiden.org/ And here are some of their socials: - twitter.com/HaleyVote4Biden - twitter.com/HaleyVotersWG - www.instagram.com/haleyvote4biden/

Let's talk about the words, actions and character of Donald J. Trump in light of what the Bible says about virtue and vice. But instead of starting with our political preferences and prejudices and THEN backing shards of Scripture into what we want, what if we started with what the Bible actually says FIRST? Then we can more earnestly reckon with the implications of what we're dealing with today.    Here are a few of the Scriptural references that came up: Exodus 20: "Thou shalt have no other gods before Me."  2 Kings 3: "(Jehoram) did evil in the sight of the Lord."  Proverbs 6: "There are six things that the Lord hates, Seven that are an abomination to Him..."  Proverbs 10: "Doing wickedness is like sport to a fool..."  John 2: "(Jesus) said, 'Take these things away from here; stop making My Father’s house a place of business!'”   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Very grateful for our sponsor Meza Wealth Management. Reach out to Jorge and his team: www.mezawealth.com  

Can an atheist and a Christian have a meaningful, friendly conversation? Can we explore our differences without being jerks to each other? Well, here's one atheist and one Christian who gave it a whirl!   Kate Cohen, a Washington Post contributing columnist, is a writer whose latest book, WE OF LITTLE FAITH, is "an impassioned call for nonbelievers to be honest with themselves and their families about their lack of belief—and help change the American cultural conversation." So, it was a special treat to have Kate on the program to discuss her journey to atheism and the implications of raising children as atheists in today's society. We explored a range of issues such as Kate's insights into the creative process, the importance of honesty in personal belief systems, and the intersection of atheism with culture, family, and politics. She also discusses the role of humor when tackling serious topics, the significance of understanding and openness in conversations about differing beliefs, and the perspective of facing mortality and legacy as an atheist. Additionally, we exchange personal stories, highlighting challenges and nuances in family dynamics when belief systems diverge, and explore the common ground atheists and religious folks can find in activism and moral responsibility.   01:46 The Art of Crafting a Book Title and Memoir Writing;  03:24 A Special Presenation from Jesse Cohen-Greenberg;  19:29 Navigating Family Dynamics and Beliefs;  27:02 Engaging with Atheism and Theism;  33:30 Understanding Atheism: Definitions and Personal Reflections;  46:36 The Importance of Community and Morality Beyond Religion;  48:25 Finding Awe and Wonder Without Supernatural Beliefs;  50:29 Legacy, Memory, and Making an Impact;  01:02:06 Navigating Family, Faith, and Identity;  01:18:23 Reflecting on Atheism, Activism, and Social Responsibility   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Very grateful for our sponsor Meza Wealth Management. Reach out to Jorge and his team: www.mezawealth.com   Kate's website: https://katecohen.net/   Her columnist page at the Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/people/kate-cohen/   Here's one of Kate's pieces in WaPo: Opinion | America doesn’t need more God. It needs more atheists. | https://wapo.st/3WaSjLl   A link to WE OF LITTLE FAITH: https://www.amazon.com/We-Little-Faith-Stopped-Pretending-ebook/dp/B0BV7MG25G?ref_=ast_author_mpb   And this is Jesse Cohen-Greenberg's music: When Will My Body Be Mine? | https://open.spotify.com/album/3GHFu2zZIBVzuwjhuK61j7?si=w_r4ZHGXQ8OJsVY3M2zYMg  

What does it mean to be a conservative? What about being a Christian? What does that mean in terms of how one would understand and uphold virtue vs vice? And if I am truly a conservative and a Christian, can I then support Donald Trump?   In this edition, we explore the nuances of conservative values and Christian beliefs amidst our politically charged environment. To get clarity on what it means to be a conservative and a Christian, it requires NOT surrendering to the extremists who monopolize conversations around politics and religion. Our discussion dives into the foundational principles of conservatism, such as: Individual Freedom,  Limited Government,  Rule of Law,  Peace through Strength,  Fiscal Responsibility,  Free Markets,  and *Human Dignity,  ...contrasting these with the divisive and aggressive tactics often employed in Trump-era politics. Contrary to what passes for “conservative” in today’s political and media landscape, we’ll look at the way true conservatism respects the U.S. Constitution and promotes a healthy, engaged citizenry, devoid of blanket vilification via broad generalizations and dehumanization. We’ll also give a sneak peak into Part II of this discussion on Christian values, specifically targeting the misalignment of Trump's actions with biblical teachings. So, yeah, this one might tweak some beaks!   00:40 Celebrating Listener Reviews and Engagement;  02:49 The Impact of Extremism on Public Discourse;  13:40 Exploring the True Meaning of Conservatism;  14:16 Principles of Conservatism vs. Trumpism;  27:29 The Importance of Human Dignity in Conservatism;  34:35 Teaser for the Next Episode: Christianity vs Trumpism   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Very grateful for our sponsor Meza Wealth Management. Reach out to Jorge and his team: www.mezawealth.com

From 9/11 to 1/6; from growing up as a Christian to reckoning with the current state of the Evangelical church in America; Elizabeth Neumann, the former Assistant Secretary for Counterterrorism and Threat Prevention at the US Department of Homeland Security, has the experience and has done the work to understand what's at stake in our country. So it was an honor to have her back on the program to discuss all this and more.   Elizabeth Neumann had a first hand look at the inner workings of the Trump Administration. What's clear from her experience is that there were a lot of people who were hard working public servants doing their best to serve the country's interests while, at the same time, having to navigate the daily chaos that defined Trump's time in office. And Elizabeth certainly has an informed perspective, having also served in the George W. Bush Administration. (Spoiler Alert: Those 2 admins couldn't have been more different.) So we delve into the historic bookends of September 11th, 2001 and January 6th, 2021. We also candidly explore, as Christians, how so many of our friends from church have become radicalized; are sympathic to or are dismissive of acts of violent extremism; and some who have even participated in demonstrations of extremism. Most importantly, as the subtitle of Elizabeth's book indicates, we explore the path back to peace.   ELIZABETH NEUMANN served as the Assistant Secretary for Counterterrorism and Threat Prevention at the US Department of Homeland Security. Elizabeth is an ABC News contributor and the Chief Strategy Officer at Moonshot which builds solutions for one of the most pressing challenges facing communities around the world: violent extremism. She is also the author of the important new book, Kingdom of Rage: The Rise of Christian Extremism and the Path Back to Peace.   01:41 Elizabeth's Journey: From Counterterrorism to Author;  04:12 Exploring the Roots of Extremism and Personal Faith;  24:04 The Role of Media and Social Media in Shaping Views;  29:16 Raising Informed and Engaged Citizens;  33:51 Comparing the George W. Bush and Trump Administrations;  42:48 Navigating Trump's Influence and Policy Challenges;  44:09 Forecasting the Future: A Second Trump Administration;  44:26 The Impact of Inexperienced Appointees and Ideological Shifts;  45:15 The Global Implications of Withdrawing from NATO and Support for Ukraine;  47:31 Analyzing the January 6th Insurrection and Its Precursors;  55:24 The Role of Christian Extremism in Political Violence;  01:03:36 Addressing Extremism and the Importance of Local Engagement;  01:14:21 Conversations Across Differences: Strategies for Dialogue   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Very grateful for our sponsor Meza Wealth Management. Reach out to Jorge and his team: www.mezawealth.com   elizabethneumann.org   elizabethneumann.org/book/

"Bringing people together to learn how to do democracy again. And we're gonna go after the crazies in the political environment that do not have the interest of the country at heart." - Adam Kinzinger   Rep. Adam Kinzinger served with integrity during his time in the U.S. Congress as well as the Air Force. Yet, the mere mention of his name sends a certain ex-President (HINT: rhymes with Shmump) as well as many of that ex-prez's most loyal followers into a rage. So it was a special honor for us to speak with former Congressman Kinzinger. Having served in Congress from 2011 to 2023 and on notable committees such as the House Select Committee investigating the January 6 Capitol attack, he discusses the challenges of political extremism, the importance of compromise, and his journey from a conservative upbringing to questioning his beliefs, while staying true to deeply rooted, unimpeachable values. He addresses the toxicity of social media, the need for reconciliation across political and religious spectrums, and his work with Country First, aimed at promoting democracy and moderating political discourse. Adam's reflections on his faith, encounters with extremism, and the significance of genuine conversation across differences provide a nuanced perspective on navigating the complexities of current American political and religious landscapes.   Congressman Adam Kinzinger served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2011 to 2023, representing Illinois’ 16th Congressional District. During his tenure, he served on the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol, as well as the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Rep. Kinzinger is the founder of Country First, an organization that works to activate the MUTED Majority to reject division and seek proven solutions to the challenges not being addressed by our leaders. He is also the author of RENEGADE: DEFENDING DEMOCRACY AND LIBERTY IN OUR DIVIDED COUNTRY. Prior to being elected to Congress, he served in the Air Force in both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. He is a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air National Guard and a Senior Political Commentator on CNN.   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Please support our wonderful sponsor Meza Wealth Management:  https://www.mezawealth.com/   adamkinzinger.substack.com   www.country1st.com   www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/723495/renegade-by-adam-kinzinger-with-michael-dantonio/

Are REPUBLICAN VOTERS AGAINST TRUMP our greatest BULWARK against authoritarianism and the most significant constituency in DEFENDING DEMOCRACY TOGETHER? (Dad jokes about the future of our Constitutional Republic aside...) Bill Kristol shares his thoughts on the state of our democracy and how this year's consequential election is shaping up.   So glad to be joined again by Bill Kristol, Editor at Large of The Bulwark; Director of Defending Democracy Together; and Host of Conversations with Bill Kristol. We took time to reflect on Bill’s early political experiences, including his roles in the Reagan and George H.W. Bush administrations, his academic career, and his work with the Project for the Republican Future. We also touch on our shared passion for baseball, particularly for the New York Mets! We then delve into Bill’s critical views on the Trump presidency, the rise of authoritarianism, and the importance of defending liberal democracy. He shares insights into his efforts with the Republican Voters Against Trump initiative and the importance of bipartisan engagement in preserving democratic norms. We then discuss the impact of social and political polarization, the significance of grassroots activism, and the need for open, exploratory dialogue across ideological divides. We wind down with Bill emphasizing the resilience of the American political system and the potential for positive change through collective action and constructive discourse.   00:52 Meet Bill Kristol: A Storied Career in Politics;  01:58 Baseball and Politics: A Personal Connection;  04:09 Navigating Political Ideologies: From Youth to Present;  05:41 The Evolution of Political Beliefs and the Impact of External Changes;  10:18 The Threat of Illiberalism and the Defense of Liberal Democracy;  15:21 Exploring the Dangers of Trumpism and Authoritarian Tendencies;  26:56 The Role of Intellectuals and Voters in Shaping Political Futures;  33:59 The Impact of Testimonials from Former Trump Voters;  34:53 The Strategy Behind Targeting Swing Voters;  35:54 Challenges and Strategies in Political Advertising;  36:55 Building a Broad Coalition Against Trump;  42:09 The Role of Money in Politics and Campaign Strategies;  44:34 Fostering Careers and Nurturing Talent in Politics;  50:43 The Evolution of Political Discourse and Outreach;  54:36 Final Thoughts on Political Engagement and Hope   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Very grateful for our sponsor Meza Wealth Management. Reach out to Jorge and his team: www.mezawealth.com   www.thebulwark.com   www.defendingdemocracytogether.org   twitter.com/BillKristol

What do we say when others label us one way or another? Why do folks have a tendency to do that in the first place? Why is it important to engage when someone mischaracterizes our views? And, if we don't fall neatly into one category, what might be a more accurate way to describe how we do identify politically?    In this edition, host Corey Nathan goes through these questions including whether it's accurate to say he's part of THE LEFT and whether there would be anything wrong with such a political leaning. We go through recent right-wing podcasts and other media to better understand what many of our friends and neighbors are listening to and reading about THE LEFT including what Tucker Carlson's been up to and a couple of the recent episodes of Victor Davis Hanson's and Steven Crowder's shows. We look at defining principles of the MAGA movement and whether there are any principles so much as anti-partisanship. There's a response about those who've hijacked the ideas of conservatism as a philosophy and Christianity as an identity. We define what it means to be delusional and examine an illustration of it. And finally we look at what in the world a "French Davidian" is!   In all seriousness, we discuss writers, thinkers and leaders who see people with different positions not as enemies but as human beings that we can learn from and even befriend to arrive at a higher truth; people who can thrive in environments where their own views aren’t the dominant ones; those who leave room for the possibility of changing - who know that evolving one’s positions isn’t a sign of weakness but of having the strength that comes with humility; and people who can hold space for the complexity of our world.   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Very grateful for our sponsor Meza Wealth Management. Reach out to Jorge and his team: www.mezawealth.com

Our democracy is brittle. Many would say our Constitutional Republic is in trouble. So what kind of work can we do on "actually renovating our institutions"?   We were fortunate to be joined by Dr. Danielle Allen, a democracy advocate, Harvard professor and nonprofit leader who's doing something about it. We talked about how to maintain a loving spirit when faced with "a lot of bleeps"; Danielle's fascinating family legacy and her "obsession" with democracy; what the heck a eudaemonist democratic pragmatist is; the ways the 5 freedoms articulated in the 1st Amendment are under threat; the merits of ranked choice voting, expanding the House of Representatives and other democratic renovations; the imperative of developing a civic portfolio; and how to "not let our differences take our humanity hostage."   Prof. Danielle Allen is James Bryant Conant University Professor at Harvard University. She is a professor of political philosophy, ethics, and public policy and director of the Democratic Knowledge Project and of the Allen Lab for Democracy Renovation. Outside the University, she is a co-chair for the Our Common Purpose Commission and Founder and President for Partners In Democracy, where she advocates for democracy reform to create greater voice and access in our democracy, and to drive progress towards a new social contract that serves and includes us all.   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Very grateful for our sponsor Meza Wealth Management. Reach out to Jorge and his team: www.mezawealth.com   partnersindemocracy.us   Be sure to read Danielle's series in the Washington Post on How to Renovate American Democracy: https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/01/31/danielle-allen-american-democracy-renovation-series/

Fred Guttenberg became a nationally known activist on gun safety after his daughter Jaime was tragically murdered in the mass shooting in Parkland, Florida. Former Congressman Joe Walsh has been a self-described "rabid gun rights advocate." So how did these two guys go from being on completely different sides of such a heated issue to becoming dear friends who are now collaborating on a national tour called TWO DADS DEFENDING DEMOCRACY?   In this special coming together, we explore Fred and Joe's evolution from adversaries to collaborators through their unique friendship. Initially at odds due to their differing views on gun control, they discovered a shared commitment to democracy and engaging in respectful dialogue across political and ideological divides. They speak about their collaborative initiative, "Two Dads Defending Democracy," aimed at encouraging Americans to participate in the democratic process, highlight the importance of conversations across differences, and reflect on personal stories that underscore their transformation. We talk about a number of ways they're both trying to make a positive difference including Fred's non-profit Orange Ribbons for Jaime, Joe's continued contributions on White Flag with Joe Walsh, and their appearances together demonstrating that instead of remaining enemies over any given issue, even those we're most passionate about, mutual respect wins every time.   00:42 Getting to Know Joe Walsh: From Congress to Gun Rights Advocate;  02:24 Fred Guttenberg's Journey: From Tragedy to Advocacy;  03:44 Bridging Divides: A Story of Friendship and Understanding;  07:39 Real Talk about Gun Safety;  13:20 The Power of Dialogue: Moving Beyond Polarization;  14:57 A Deep Dive into the Second Amendment and Gun Safety;  20:33 Finding Common Ground: The Path to Reducing Gun Violence;  30:58 Exploring Red Flag Laws: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly;  33:41 The Impact of 'White Flag' on Activism and Public Policy;  35:09 America's Shift in Gun Culture and the NRA's Influence;  42:31 More Bridging Divides: Two Dads Defending Democracy;  50:44 Engaging Across Differences: Strategies for Democracy;  52:41 Closing Thoughts: Hope, Engagement, and the American Experiment   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Very grateful for our sponsor Meza Wealth Management. Reach out to Jorge and his team: www.mezawealth.com   fredguttenberg.com   orangeribbonsforjaime.org/   twitter.com/WalshFreedom   White Flag with Joe Walsh - pod.link/1590913798   www.udel.edu/udaily/2024/january/joe-walsh-fred-guttenberg-snf-ithaca-initiative-democracy-speaking-tour/   joewalshwhiteflag@gmail.com   And just to be clear... LET'S GO RANGERS! ;-)

Why is it that when there's a criticism of Donald Trump, that some folks who support him react as if it's an attack on them personally?    On this installment of our program, host Corey Nathan explores this phenomenon. There have been a number of times when Corey and/or the guests have examined the words, actions and character of Donald Trump - and let's face it, there's much to criticize. Like, every day. But it becomes problematic when a friend who happens to support Trump takes that critique as if it's an attack against them and their character. Corey shares several instances of when this has occurred in response to recent interviews and posts. He also scratches the surface of what's happening in right wing media as one possible explanation of where this is all coming from.    But by the end of this talk, we explore ways of how to engage with folks who do seem to take it personally when we openly critique something Trump says or does. Some of this includes setting clear understandings, finding ways to compliment the person, not tackling everything at once and, best of all, inviting them out for coffee or lunch!   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Please support our sponsor Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com

What’s it like to be targeted by Donald Trump? What’s it like to be viciously attacked and to have one’s family under threat due to the ex-President’s middle of the night rage tweets?   This is a story of resilience. It's a story of making a difference. But it's also about life being unpredictable and messy - and even having a messy kitchen! Mostly, it’s about how to “keep moving forward.”   Rachel Vindman is Co-host of The Suburban Women Problem, an excellent and timely podcast produced by Red Wine and Blue. Rachel and her family faced personal safety issues when her husband, Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman testified in the first Trump impeachment hearings. Despite the challenges, through the podcast and her beautifully candid Substack Keep Moving Forward, Rachel decided to speak out and use her voice to encourage women to stand up for policies and elected officials addressing issues important to women and families. #keepmovingforward    01:15 Introducing Rachel Vindman: A Voice for Democracy;  03:01 The Power and Pitfalls of Social Media;  08:16 Navigating Parenting in the Digital Age;  13:38 The Political Landscape and Suburban Women's Influence;  22:45 Exploring Family Backgrounds and Personal Journeys;  38:37 Election Day 2016: A Turning Point;  47:26 Navigating Hostility and Protecting Family;  53:19 Confronting Misinformation and Embracing Truth;  55:04 The Journey of Grief and Resilience;  01:06:18 Empowering Voices and Making a Difference;  01:24:22 Exploring Future Projects and Personal Reflections   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Please support our sponsor Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com   redwine.blue/the-suburban-women-problem/   rachelvindman.substack.com/   redwine.blue/

How do we harness the power of communication in bridging societal divides? We spoke with Elliot Kirschner, an Emmy award-winning journalist and documentary filmmaker, to help us “Through the Fog…”    Elliot shares his journey from CBS to his Substack “Through the Fog,” his dedication to science communication, and reflections on the role of journalism and science in democracy. We delve into his collaboration with Dan Rather, his academic pursuits in history and literature, and his current endeavors that strive to make science accessible to the public. Elliot also espouses the transformative potential of national service programs, science communication, and storytelling in healing our divisions, underlining the power of optimism and collaborative efforts in facilitating dialogue and understanding.   07:36 The Essence of Democracy and American Identity;  13:27 Transitioning from Producer to Personal Voice;  25:12 Cultural Heritage and Family Dynamics;  34:20 The Stakes of Democracy in Upcoming Elections;  40:47 Reflecting on Bipartisanship and Legislative Challenges;  42:24 Congressional Dysfunction and Its Impact;  46:26 The Evolution and Challenges of Modern Journalism;  53:15 The Potential of Hyper-Localized Journalism;  57:35 The Role of Science in Uniting People;  01:04:15 Fostering Conversations Across Divides   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Please support our sponsor Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com   elliotkirschner.substack.com/   sciencecommunicationlab.org/

Some might be inclined to believe recent discussions about totalitarianism are hyperbolic. In fact, the U.S. has a long history in which law, culture, medicine and religion have all been in the mix on exactly such experiments.   In our latest visit with Jon Rauch, we go into depth on his recent piece in The Atlantic, THE U.S. SHOULD APOLOGIZE TO GAY PEOPLE, which profiles America's historical attempts at erasing homosexuality, the impact this pervasive practice had on people's lives and what should be done to make it right. We also delve into Jon's personal experiences and his work on creating frameworks for productive conversations across political and religious divides. It's always worth revisiting Jon's landmark book, The Constitution of Knowledge. Plus we learn more about his personal connection to Justice Sandra Day O'Connor and her family.   05:12 The Happiness Curve: Personal and Societal Perspectives; 06:13 The Intersection of Religion, Democracy, and LGBTQ+ Rights; 08:28 Unveiling the History of Government-Led Discrimination Against Gay People; 32:24 The Importance of Acknowledging and Addressing Past Wrongs;  39:34 Personal Stories of Discrimination and Hope; 41:51 A Tribute to Sandra Day O'Connor: Personal Reflections; 51:11 The Constitution of Knowledge and Navigating Social Media Chaos   Let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Please support our sponsor Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com   www.jonathanrauch.com   www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2024/01/lavender-scare-gay-people-public-service-erasure/677236/   www.amazon.com/Constitution-Knowledge-Jonathan-Rauch/dp/0815738862/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0

If the goal here is to reach across our differences and at least to try and understand each other better, this was an epic FAIL!   This edition recounts an experience Corey had with someone he's known for a long time and has had many conversations with. But this pseudonymously named "Evan" did something after October 7th that put all subsequent dialogue on a much more strained path. Corey shares some of the comments that were made in the immediate aftermath of war breaking out in Israel as well as more recent exchanges with this individual. And the question is, how could this have gone better? Or is the right answer that sometimes you just have to know when to walk away... and stay away. As much as we might want to stay on the field, as much as we refuse to cede the entire village square to extremists, sometimes the best option is to simply know one's limitations and set healthy boundaries.   It's a sincere set of questions. So please let us know what you think. You can find Corey on all the socials @coreysnathan such as www.threads.net/@coreysnathan.   It would mean so much if you could leave us a review on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/TPandRPod   Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other is part 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.   Please support our sponsor Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com