Best Doug Lester Podcasts (2025)

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37: If Your Job Search Is Taking Too Long, Stop Trusting Your Gut 8:52

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17d ago8:52

8:52

If your job search is taking too long and you’re a mid or senior-level leader, your gut may be telling you it’s time to broaden your appeal. To have a more general and therefore more appealing positioning. Don’t do it! Host Doug Lester explains, from a recruiter’s perspective, why broadening your positioning could be a big mistake. 👓 Read the origi…

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Fighting Division One Conversation at a Time 20:19

3d ago20:19

20:19

Surviving Triangulation in a Polarized World It's time to reckon with one of the toughest questions in our current public discourse: “How can you think that?” Through stories from his personal and professional life, host Corey Nathan unpacks the emotionally draining phenomenon of triangulation—when we’re caught in the middle of opposing viewpoints—…

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🎙️ Transforming Systems, Not Just Souls — with Dr. Kurt Ver Beek 1:09:18

6d ago1:09:18

1:09:18

"If we lived in the poorest, most dangerous neighborhoods, we’d understand better how to love and serve." — Dr. Kurt Ver Beek It was great to sit down with Dr. Kurt Ver Beek, co-founder of the Association for a More Just Society (ASJ), who has lived and worked in Honduras for nearly four decades. From battling systemic corruption to reducing the ho…

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🎙️ Back to Basics: When to Engage, When to Walk Away 25:18

10d ago25:18

25:18

A candid reflection on staying grounded while engaging in contentious conversations—and when to take a step back. ✨ Episode Summary In this heartfelt solo talk, host Corey Nathan goes back to the fundamentals of Talkin’ Politics & Religion Without Killin’ Each Other. Reflecting on recent emotionally charged interactions—some painfully personal—Core…

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Justin Giboney on the Black Church, Civic Courage, and Healing Our Divides 1:04:54

13d ago1:04:54

1:04:54

By Scan Media, LLC

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Cursing, Criticism, and the Conversations Worth Keeping 24:26

17d ago24:26

24:26

A raw look at which relationships and conversations are worth our time—and when to just say f* it. ✨ Episode Summary In this candid, off-the-cuff talk, Corey wrestles with a series of deeply personal and philosophical questions that lie at the heart of this progam’s mission: 👉 Which conversations are worth pursuing? 👉 Which relationships are worth …

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Inside Heterodox Academy: Jonathan Rauch and Liz Joyner on Reclaiming Truth in a Fractured Democracy 1:23:54

20d ago1:23:54

1:23:54

Why defending viewpoint diversity might be the most radical—and necessary—act in higher education today. 🎧 Episode Summary What a treat to welcome two leading voices in the fight for viewpoint diversity and constructive civic dialogue: Jonathan Rauch, senior fellow at Brookings and author of The Constitution of Knowledge, and Liz Joyner, founder of…

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🎙️ THEY Didn't Do It – A Candid Call for Accountability 19:36

24d ago19:36

19:36

In times of national tragedy, can we resist the urge to turn our grief into political ammo? Sadly, our current leaders can't seem to find their better angels. So who's gonna do the right thing? 🧭 Episode Summary Fair warning: Your trusty friend and host is a little hot under the collar on this one. We're addressing the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s a…

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Dr. Beth Allison Barr on Women, Power, and the Pastor’s Wife Problem in Evangelicalism 1:11:36

27d ago1:11:36

1:11:36

What if the role of “pastor’s wife” wasn’t biblical at all, but a cultural invention that sidelined women from ministry? Dr. Beth Allison Barr pulls back the curtain on how power, patriarchy, and politics shaped Evangelical churches—and why reclaiming women’s voices could change everything. Episode Summary So glad to sit down with Dr. Beth Allison …

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36: Your LinkedIn Headline May Be Riskier Than You Think 7:42

1M ago7:42

7:42

Is your LinkedIn headline your job title and company name? If so, you're taking a big risk. Host Doug Lester shares why, based on his experience as a Fortune 100 hiring manager, an executive recruiter and a coach to more than a thousand MBA alumni. And he offers an alternative approach that more effectively communicates your personal narrative. 🤓 R…

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From Trauma to Torah: Rabbi Michael Holzman’s Mission to Rebuild American Democracy 1:14:36

1M ago1:14:36

1:14:36

After October 7, Rabbi Michael Holzman wasn’t just mourning—he was mobilizing. A project he had already spent years developing. Discover how one rabbi is using ancient wisdom, civic rituals, and interfaith grit to heal our fractured democracy. In this episode, we sit down with Rabbi Michael Holzman, spiritual leader of the Northern Virginia Hebrew …

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Governor John Kasich on Healing America: Faith, Forgiveness, and Civic Courage 51:18

1M ago51:18

51:18

A deeply personal and timely conversation with Governor John Kasich on bridging divides, living your values, and why forgiveness is essential in today’s fractured political landscape. We were so pleased to be joined by Governor John Kasich who opens up about the role of faith, forgiveness, and civic duty in his life and career. The conversation spa…

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35: The Most Counterintuitive Networking Strategy 8:06

1M ago8:06

8:06

What if one of your most effective networking strategies could be relying on your competitors to be your advocates? Host Doug Lester explains why this actually works, based on his experience as an executive recruiter at a top firm. And he offers a few tips for doing it the right way. 🎧 Take control of your narrative and advance your career — subscr…

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“We Must Not Be Enemies”: Reflecting on the Assassination of Charlie Kirk 18:36

1M ago18:36

18:36

✨ This Is Not the Way — The Tragedy of the Assassination of Charlie Kirk and What It Means for Our Country In this episode, we take time to reflect on the shocking assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, who was gunned down while speaking at a college campus. Instead of political posturing, let's have humane, constructive dialogue—a…

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🎙️ Greg Lukianoff on How Free Speech Is Under Fire—from Both the Left and the Right 1:08:36

1M ago1:08:36

1:08:36

Why defending expression—even the speech you hate—is essential to democracy in 2025. Episode Summary: It was great to welcome back Greg Lukianoff, President and CEO of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE). Greg is also a New York Times bestselling author and executive producer of the feature-length documentaries Can We Take a …

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🎙️ Reckoning with Legacy — Dobson, MacArthur, and the Future of the Church with Special Guests Lisa Sharon Harper and Joe Smith 1:22:54

2M ago1:22:54

1:22:54

Dobson and MacArthur shaped a movement. Now it's time to ask: at what cost? ✨ Episode Summary In this powerful roundtable conversation, host Corey Nathan is joined by author and public theologian Lisa Sharon Harper and pastor Joe Smith to explore the complex legacies of James Dobson and John MacArthur—two towering figures in American Evangelicalism…

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Guardrails of Democracy: Daniel Weiner of the Brennan Center on Authoritarianism, Election Integrity, and Legal Guardrails 1:19:36

2M ago1:19:36

1:19:36

What happens when law firms, universities, and elections come under fire—and how we can all help hold the line for democracy. 🧭 Episode Summary In this timely and incisive conversation, Daniel Weiner, a leading legal expert on democracy and rule of law, joins host Corey Nathan to unpack the rising authoritarian tendencies in the U.S., how democrati…

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🎧 How NOT to Talk About Politics and Religion (And we got some DOOZIES to discuss!) 50:54

2M ago50:54

50:54

Is there any escaping the "Us vs. Them" mindset? 🗣️ Episode Summary What are the pitfalls of engaging in political and religious discourse—especially on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram? Drawing from recent interactions on his posts about Israel, Trump, democracy, and faith, Corey breaks down how NOT to engage in these conversations, u…

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Drawing the Line: When Gerrymandering Becomes Political Warfare 36:36

2M ago36:36

36:36

🎙️ Diving back into the gerrymandering / redistricting wars and the so-called "war on democracy." Is it a real war or political hyperbole? Corey unpacks recent redistricting efforts in Texas and California, confronts ethical and legal questions, and most importantly, discusses how we talk about these issues — especially when we disagree. From insti…

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From the Streets to a PhD: Dr. Terence Lester on Faith, Educational Injustice, and Fighting for Equity in a Broken System 1:12:54

2M ago1:12:54

1:12:54

Dr. Terence Lester on overcoming poverty, confronting systemic racism in education, and how we can show up for students our schools are failing. Introduction: Dr. Terence Lester is an activist, speaker, professor, and founder of Love Beyond Walls, a nonprofit focused on raising awareness about poverty and homelessness. Dr. Lester shares his remarka…

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Most of Us Are in the Middle — So Why Are the Extremes Controlling the Conversation? 40:36

2M ago40:36

40:36

Not Right. Not Left. Not Crazy. Just Real Talk About Politics and People. 43% of Us Aren’t Partisan Left or Right. This Episode Is for You. Reflecting on what it means to be politically independent in a time of increasing polarization. Drawing on personal stories and hot-button issues like Israel/Palestine, redistricting, and public safety, host Co…

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Matthew D. Taylor: The NAR's War on Democracy & The Path to Rehumanizing Faith 1:26:36

2M ago1:26:36

1:26:36

Exposing the New Apostolic Reformation's anti-democratic Seven Mountain Mandate and its profound impact on Christian nationalism, urging a return to interreligious dialogue and Jesus' core teachings to rehumanize faith and defend liberal democracy - we're joined by Dr. Matthew D. Taylor to discuss all this and more. Dr. Matthew D. Taylor is a leadi…

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Redistricting Wars: Is It Wise to Fight Fire with Fire? Lessons from a Heated Dialogue. 39:54

2M ago39:54

39:54

Principles, Polarization, and the Perils of Partisan Shaming. Let's dive into the heated “Redistricting Wars” in Texas, California, and other states. Using David French’s framework of “Is it legal? Is it ethical? Is it wise?”, Corey examines the legal, moral, and strategic angles of mid-decade redistricting. From explaining the political strategies…

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Thomas Chatterton Williams - SUMMER OF OUR DISCONTENT: The Age of Certainty and the Demise of Discourse 1:00:31

2M ago1:00:31

1:00:31

What happened between the election of the first black president in 2008 and the reelection of Donald Trump in 2024 that's led to "the age of certainty and the demise of discourse"? Well, as the brilliant writer Thomas Chatterton Williams recounts in his new book, there was the SUMMER OF OUR DISCONTENT. In this episode, we get to sit down with Thoma…

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34: How To Remain Competitive When AI Makes Career Advancement a Steeper Climb 13:38

2M ago13:38

13:38

As business leaders become more comfortable incorporating AI into their organizations, the shape of org charts will change. It's already happening, and it's going to have an impact on career advancement. Host Doug Lester shares classic tips about how to remain competitive amid all the changes. 🎧 Take control of your narrative and advance your caree…

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Cheering Murder, Losing Our Soul: A Call Back to Our Shared Humanity 36:36

3M ago36:36

36:36

How Did We Get Here? From Outrage to Applauding Atrocity In this edition, host Corey Nathan offers a timely and deeply personal reflection on a disturbing trend in society: the growing tendency to dehumanize one another. We unpack two tragic incidents that sparked widespread and even celebratory reactions online—mass murders of corporate executives…

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Fires, ICE, and Faith — Rev. Dr. Matthew Colwell on Immigration, Loss, and Rebuilding Community 1:15:36

3M ago1:15:36

1:15:36

What if ICE visits our church? How are we doing after the LA Fires? And how can the Church help to rebuild and heal? In this heartfelt episode of Talkin’ Politics & Religion Without Killin’ Each Other, host Corey Nathan welcomes back the Reverend Dr. Matt Colwell, Senior Pastor of Knox Presbyterian Church in Pasadena, CA. A theologian, author, and …

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Misunderstood, Mislabeled, and Still Thinking About It: What to Do About Rumination 37:54

3M ago37:54

37:54

Ever get stuck in those mental loops after heated conversations around politics and religion? Let's talk about it! In this episode, host Corey Nathan opens up about the all-too-common habit of rumination—going over those difficult conversations or moments of conflict again and again. Drawing from a powerful personal story, Corey explores what rumin…

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Finding Purpose, Building Wealth, and Staying Grounded in Uncertain Times with Jorge Meza 51:36

3M ago51:36

51:36

In today's economic and political climate, how can we all keep our heads while everyone else is losing theirs? Talkin' tariffs, budget deficits, the Fed, interest rates, and all kinds of fun stuff! In this episode of Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other, host Corey Nathan welcomes long-time friend and investment advisor Jorge Meza…

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Mastering the Minefield: How to Spot Escalation, Avoid Traps & Build Better Dialogue 39:54

3M ago39:54

39:54

In this episode, host Corey Nathan explores how we can navigate difficult conversations around politics and religion with more grace and effectiveness. Drawing on personal experiences, spiritual grounding, and practical techniques, Corey shares what to look out for when a conversation is going sideways and how to communicate better even in the most…

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Trump 2.0, John MacArthur, and America's Numbed Conscience: A Special Roundtable with Lori Adams-Brown and William Wright 1:12:54

3M ago1:12:54

1:12:54

Trump 2.0 - 6 months in. How's it going? (And other light comedy...) In this milestone 300th episode, Corey is joined by two insightful friends: Lori Adams-Brown, host of A World of Difference podcast, and William Wright, co-host of the Faithful Politics podcast. Together, they reflect on six months of the Trump 2.0 administration, rising Christian…

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The Skipper's Moral Compass: A Navy SEAL Commander on Ethical Leadership & Navigating Today's Political Waters 1:18:11

3M ago1:18:11

1:18:11

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Roger Herbert—retired Navy Captain, former SEAL commander, professor of ethics, and distinguished academic. Dr. Herbert’s career spans from leading undersea special operations to teaching future naval officers at the U.S. Naval Academy. We explore Dr. Herbert's remarkable journey marked by leadership, ethics, and pro…

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Do You Want To Be Right Or The Relationship? Why We Insist on Being Right in Politics & Beyond 35:54

3M ago35:54

35:54

In this solo episode, host Corey Nathan shares a personal story that explores a fundamental question many of us face in political and relational discourse: “Do you want to be right, or do you want the relationship?” Prompted by a real-life interaction following his attendance at a local rally, Corey examines how we navigate our convictions, the cos…

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Mike Madrid on the Latino Electorate, Trump's Win in 2024 and What It Means for the Soul of America 1:22:36

3M ago1:22:36

1:22:36

In this episode, host Corey Nathan welcomes back political consultant, author, and Substack contributor Mike Madrid. A renowned expert on Latino voters and co-founder of the Lincoln Project, Mike brings his profound insights on American politics, identity, and democracy. Together, Corey and Mike explore deeply personal stories, historical context, …

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(ICYMI) Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde on Faith, Politics, and Ethical Conversations in a Polarized Nation 1:06:54

4M ago1:06:54

1:06:54

This was such a refreshing conversation with Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde. We recorded it just after she delivered the homily at the National Cathedral the day after the inauguration. Bishop Budde's candor, winsomeness and wisdom shines through in all circumstances - whether it's before a worldwide audience or upon earnest reflection of the impact of…

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Faith, Freedom, and the Fight for the 1st Amendment: Daniel Mach of the ACLU on Kennedy v. Bremerton, Religious Charter Schools, and Resisting Trump-Era Overreach 1:09:18

4M ago1:09:18

1:09:18

In this timely episode of "Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other," host Corey Nathan speaks with Professor Daniel Mach, Director of the ACLU Program on Freedom of Religion and Belief and adjunct professor of law at the George Washington University Law School. They explore the complexities of First Amendment rights, the historical S…

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Transforming Campaigns: Mike Nellis Discusses Political and Fundraising Strategies to Combat Anti-Democratic Threats 1:27:36

4M ago1:27:36

1:27:36

In this episode, we're joined by Mike Nellis, founder of Authentic and executive chairman of QUILLER. Mike shares his journey from early political engagement to founding a values-driven digital agency and a pioneering AI platform. He opens up about overcoming personal mental health challenges and emphasizes the importance of empathy, leadership, an…

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Vote Common Good: Pastor Doug Pagitt on the Emergent Church and "Exit Ramps" for Engaging Faith Voters 1:29:18

4M ago1:29:18

1:29:18

In this episode, Corey Nathan is joined by Pastor Doug Pagitt, Executive Director of Vote Common Good. Doug shares his remarkable journey from a non-religious upbringing to becoming a prominent voice in progressive evangelicalism. They discuss how his background in sociology and theology shapes his view of faith, culture, and politics, and how thos…

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33: Why Summer is the Perfect Time to Network for Your Career 7:40

4M ago7:40

7:40

It's just about summer, and if you think you have to wait until fall to network for your career or a new job, you're mistaken. Summer is actually the ideal time to do a little networking. Host Doug Lester shares insight from his experience as an executive recruiter at a top firm. 🎧 Take control of your narrative and advance your career — subscribe …

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Us vs. Them: Practical Ways to Counter the Polarization That's Killing Us 43:18

4M ago43:18

43:18

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. th…

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Muster Your Courage & Heal Our Civic Square with Liz Joyner, Founder and President of The Village Square 1:18:00

4M ago1:18:00

1:18:00

In this episode, host Corey Nathan welcomes Liz Joyner, founder and president of The Village Square, a civic organization dedicated to bridging divides and fostering dialogue across political and cultural lines. Liz shares the story behind founding The Village Square, her passion for preserving democratic values, and her experience navigating polit…

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Kamy Akhavan on What's Actually Happening in Los Angeles, the Root Causes, and Bridging Our Divides 1:32:36

4M ago1:32:36

1:32:36

In this episode, host Corey Nathan welcomes Kamy Akhavan, Executive Director at the USC Dornsife Center for the Political Future and former CEO of ProCon.org. Kamy shares his extraordinary journey from war-torn Iran to becoming a champion of civil discourse and political bridge-building in the United States. What We Discuss: Kamy’s powerful immigra…

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Andrew Heaton: Tribalism Is Dumb – Why We're Hardwired for Division & How to Cope 1:33:11

4M ago1:33:11

1:33:11

In this insightful and often humorous episode, host Corey Nathan welcomes political satirist, author, and podcast host Andrew Heaton for a wide-ranging conversation about his latest book, Tribalism Is Dumb. Heaton, known for his podcast The Political Orphanage, brings his signature blend of wit, intellect, and candor to explore why politics has bec…

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Dialogue Killers Revealed: Beat Ad Hominem & Proxies to Reclaim Civil Political Talk 35:36

5M ago35:36

35:36

In this edition, host Corey Nathan dives into two behaviors that shut down meaningful dialogue before it even starts: ad hominem attacks and treating individuals as proxies for groups. Drawing from real-life interactions and candid personal stories, Corey illustrates why civil discourse matters now more than ever. What Is Discussed: Why personal at…

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Bishop Mary D. Glasspool, Trailblazing Leader in the Episcopal Church, on Challenging Tradition and Navigating Faith 1:11:36

5M ago1:11:36

1:11:36

In this inspiring episode, host Corey Nathan welcomes Bishop Mary D. Glasspool, a pioneering leader in the Episcopal Church and the first openly lesbian woman to be consecrated as a bishop in the Anglican Communion. Since 2016, she has served as Assistant Bishop in the Episcopal Diocese of New York. Bishop Mary shares her personal journey of faith,…

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Reasoned Humility: Pastor David Hegg on Theology, Differences, and Engaging Culture 1:11:26

5M ago1:11:26

1:11:26

In this episode, host Corey Nathan is joined by Pastor David Hegg, Senior Pastor at Grace Baptist Church in Santa Clarita, CA. With decades of experience, a master’s in theology, and a doctorate in preaching, Pastor Hegg shares his unique journey into ministry, his thoughts on biblical teaching, and how Christians can faithfully navigate today’s cu…

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(ICYMI) Sussing out Excellent Journalism from All the Crap with Julie Mason, SiriusXM Radio Host and Former White House Reporter 59:36

5M ago59:36

59:36

“You’ve got to be willing to kick your sources right in the balls if necessary, even if they’re your friends.” Julie Mason came up the ranks at regional newspapers before becoming a White House reporter. On her SiriusXM radio show, you can tell how much she loves and champions good reporters and reveres excellent journalism. And that's one of the m…

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ICYMI - Wajahat Ali: Navigating Chaos and Divisiveness with Hope and Humanity 1:04:36

5M ago1:04:36

1:04:36

A lot's happened already this year. So it's worth re-setting this conversation with friend of the pod, Wajahat Ali, from earlier this year... When there's such chaos amd divisiveness all around us, what can we do to cultivate a sense of hope and humanity? In this episode, we welcome back Wajahat Ali, celebrated writer, editor of The Left Hook Subst…

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Standing with Ukraine: Alexander Vindman on U.S. Foreign Policy, Putin’s Threat, and the Folly of Trumpism 1:17:26

5M ago1:17:26

1:17:26

In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Alexander Vindman—retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel and former Director for European Affairs on the White House National Security Council. Known for his key role in the first Trump impeachment and his deep expertise in Eastern European affairs, Vindman returns to discuss his latest book, The Folly of Realism:…

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Stop Toxic Partisanship (Doing Our Part): Finding Humanity in Polarized Politics & Religion 51:54

5M ago51:54

51:54

In this episode, host Corey Nathan reflects on a pivotal shift in direction for the podcast. The solo episodes of “Talkin’ Politics & Religion Without Killin’ Each Other” will be moving toward a more practical focus—answering the question of how we engage in tough conversations about politics and religion in more productive, neighborly, human ways.…