In each episode we unpack what’s making us feel so polarized — because we’re actually not as divided as we think we are. Together, we’ll broaden our minds, open our hearts, and strengthen connections in a politically charged election season and beyond. Tania Israel is a psychologist and expert in dealing with political division with loads of fascinating data and practical tips to help you navigate our (seemingly) polarized world. Pema Rocker is a creative coach and author who brings curiosity, heart and storytelling into her authentic quest to understand our political climate and herself.
Episode 15. Learn, Dammit!
What Tania find most frustrating when it comes to talking politics, and so much more!
Other Episodes
Episode 14. Post-Election Check-In
Tania and Pema unpack what they’re thinking and feeling about the 2024 election, not as authors and experts, but as dear friends just trying to figure it out.
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Episode 13. Swing State Stories
In this solo episode, Tania shares stories from her time canvassing in Pennsylvania just before the 2024 election.
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Episode 12: Post-Election Uncertainty
Are you struggling with anger after the 2024 election? Tania is joined by her friend, a Buddhist lama, to talk strategies for making sense of our big feelings about politics.
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Episode 11: Grief and the Political Divide
Tania and Pema unpack their feelings around the 2024 election results, and how understanding grief can help us cope and move forward — in our own time.
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Episode 10: Join the Bridging Movement
Did you know there are over 500 organizations who are already working together to strengthen social cohesion and democracy in the US? Tania and Pema dig into some inspiring examples, figure out ways to get involved, and unpack why it can feel so daunting to take baby steps towards a less divided future — and share their insight for how to get around that.
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Episode 9: Participate Meaningfully in Community and Country
Feeling anxious or unsure about the election? There’s a ton you can do to get involved. Tania and Pema break down what it’s really like to knock doors, write postcards, and more.
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Episode 8: Engage Effectively across the Divide
Tania and Pema talk tips, tricks, and some surprising research behind how to have an effective conversation with someone who disagrees with you.
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Episode 7: Open Your Heart
Tania and Pema explore what’s so hard about practicing compassion — seriously. Plus why it’s worth it, and one of Tania’s preferred methods of cultivating it.
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Episode 6: Broaden Your Mind
Pema and Tania talk about the emotional toll of broadening our minds, and why it’s important to do some of this work on our own, instead of in dialogue.
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Episode 5: Foster Emotional Resilience
Are our pre-historic brains hijacking our ability to be wise and strong in the modern world? Tania shares science and tips to help us better understand ourselves when we’re feeling threatened.
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Episode 4: Correct Distorted Perceptions
Everybody has prejudices — they’re part of being human. But that doesn’t make them any less damaging. Tania breaks down our most common political misperceptions.
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Episode 3: Use Social Media Intentionally
Pema explored what makes mindlessly scrolling so much more addictive than just watching TV, and Tania doles out tips and tricks to help you stay connected while gaining more freedom from your phone.
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Episode 2: Consume News Wisely
Tania and Pema talk about the slant in our trusted news sources, how to spot a narrative (and why you should), misinformation, and practical tips to stay informed in distressing times.
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Episode 1: Get the Facts About Polarization
Pema shares some of her personal journey with — and questions about — political polarization, and Tania provides jaw-dropping data showing we’re much less polarized and less political than we think we are. Plus, what this podcast has to do with Buffy The Vampire Slayer.
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