Best Let S Talk About Stuff Podcasts (2025)

1
The Unflinching Eye: McKay Coppins on Journalism, the Threats to Our Freedoms and the Power of Inquiry 1:12:18

4d ago1:12:18

1:12:18

🎙️Award-winning journalist and Atlantic staff writer McKay Coppins joins us to explore the delicate intersections of politics, faith, and journalism. From shadowing Donald Trump to chronicling the political journey of Mitt Romney, McKay shares what it takes to pursue truth in turbulent times. What We Discuss: What it’s like getting rare access to T…

1
I Was Right About the Law, But My Delivery Was WRONG: How to Discuss Threats to Our Rights Without Being a Jerk 26:18

7d ago26:18

26:18

In this episode, host Corey Nathan shares a candid reflection about a recent encounter where he was right on the facts and the law—but completely wrong in how he presented them. Yet if we're honest with ourselves about when we make mistakes, it's a good opportunity to learn, reminding us that how we communicate is just as important as what we commu…

1
Untangling the Partisan Knot: A Balanced Look at Political News with Isaac Saul of Tangle 1:13:36

11d ago1:13:36

1:13:36

In this episode, we sit down with Isaac Saul, founder of Tangle, a widely respected, nonpartisan political newsletter. Isaac and his team bring a fresh approach to political journalism by curating multiple perspectives—right, left, and independent—on major stories of the day. Corey, a fan and avid reader of Tangle, dives deep into Isaac’s upbringin…

1
(ICYMI) Beyond Right and Left: Rabbi Sharon Brous and the Courage to Ask 'What Do You See?' After October 7th 1:08:54

14d ago1:08:54

1:08:54

In this deeply moving episode, Corey Nathan welcomes Rabbi Sharon Brous, the senior and founding rabbi of IKAR, a groundbreaking Jewish community based in Los Angeles. Rabbi Brous is also the author of The Amen Effect: Ancient Wisdom to Heal Our Hearts and Mend Our Broken World. Together, they explore ancient traditions, mental health, spiritual le…

1
From Bible School to 'Trump Grumpies': Gen Z Asks, What Would Jesus Really Do? with Emerson Riley Nathan 1:19:36

17d ago1:19:36

1:19:36

In this heartfelt and wide-ranging episode, host Corey Nathan sits down with a very special guest — his own son, Emerson Riley Nathan. Together, they dive into Gen Z’s unique perspective on faith, politics, and culture. As a young adult navigating the complexities of belief, identity, and creativity, Emerson offers refreshing candor about his spiri…

1
Will Saletan: Navigating Toxic Partisanship and Challenging Extremist Absurdity 1:28:38

21d ago1:28:38

1:28:38

In this episode, we welcome back political journalist and author Will Saletan. Will, formerly of Slate and now a writer for The Bulwark, is known for his sharp insights on American democracy, political corruption, and authoritarianism. Will reflects on the pivotal events leading up to and following the 2024 election, including Joe Biden’s withdrawa…

1
Dumb Ideas Welcome? Navigating Free Speech and Falsehoods in a Divided Democracy 57:18

24d ago57:18

57:18

In this solo episode, host Corey Nathan takes a deep dive into one of the foundational guidelines we've used in curating conversations both in person and online: handling misinformation. Corey reflects on his experiences moderating political and religious discussions, the evolution of social media moderation, and the fine balance between protecting…

1
(Best of) David Brooks, HOW TO KNOW A PERSON: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen 1:06:48

26d ago1:06:48

1:06:48

This conversation with David Brooks was a real highlight. We originally recorded our talk just after his most recent book HOW TO KNOW A PERSON was released. Enjoy. You might recognize David Brooks from his columns in The New York Times or his essays in The Atlantic. Perhaps you’ve seen him on PBS NewsHour or Meet the Press. He’s also a prolific aut…

1
Mónica Guzmán: Breaking the Cycle of Outrage Through Fearlessly Curious Conversations 1:03:18

29d ago1:03:18

1:03:18

In this episode, host Corey Nathan welcomes back Monica Guzmán, Senior Fellow for Public Practice at Braver Angels, host of A Braver Way podcast, CEO of Reclaim Curiosity, and author of I Never Thought of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times. Monica’s mission is to help bridge America’s political di…

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ICYMI: 7 Tools for Engaging With "Them" 43:54

30d ago43:54

43:54

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 fir…

1
A Frank Discussion on American Politics with an "Untethered Expat" Originally from Bucks County PA 1:28:36

1M ago1:28:36

1:28:36

In this episode, host Corey Nathan reconnects with his longtime friend Gary Keifer, an expat currently living in Peru. Gary brings a refreshingly honest and “untethered” perspective to U.S. politics, unfiltered by party loyalty or institutional affiliation. With a background in comedy, improv, and theater, Gary offers thoughtful insights rooted in …

1
Speaking Truth to Power (and to the Pews): Peter Wehner on the Evangelical Vote and America's Future 55:54

1M ago55:54

55:54

In this conversation, host Corey Nathan welcomes back Peter Wehner, contributing writer at The Atlantic and The New York Times, senior fellow at the Trinity Forum, and author of multiple books including The Death of Politics and City of Man. A former speechwriter for President George W. Bush, Pete brings a unique perspective shaped by his deep poli…

1
Beyond Arguments: Setting Boundaries and Clearing the Brush for Civil Political and Religious Conversations 38:26

1M ago38:26

38:26

In this episode, we explore some essential tools for navigating difficult conversations in today’s polarized world. After all, we are part of The Democracy Group! And our goal with TDG and this program is to foster respectful, insightful discussions on politics, religion, and other sensitive topics—without resorting to hostility. In this solo episo…

1
Charlie Sykes - From Reagan Republicans to RFK Jr.: How the Right Lost Its Mind (Again) 1:12:26

1M ago1:12:26

1:12:26

In this episode, host Corey Nathan sits down with Charlie Sykes, a prominent conservative commentator, former talk radio host, and founder of The Bulwark, who's currently writing and podcasting on his excellent Substack To the Contrary. Known for his sharp political insights and willingness to challenge the current trajectory of the Republican Part…

1
Grave Concerns and Glimmers of Hope: Navigating the State of US Politics 28:07

2M ago28:07

28:07

In this episode, host Corey Nathan shares his candid thoughts on hope, concerns about the state of democracy, and the importance of engaging in meaningful conversations. Inspired by recent discussions with David French and Charlie Sykes, Corey explores whether he remains hopeful about the future—both at the national level and in his local community…

1
David French | Friends or Enemies? Overcoming Divides with Justice, Kindness, and Humility in a Polarized America 1:15:36

2M ago1:15:36

1:15:36

In this episode, we welcome back David French, columnist for The New York Times, former constitutional attorney, and author of Divided We Fall. We discuss the current state of American democracy, the challenges of political division, and how we can engage in civil discourse despite deep ideological differences. David also shares a personal update o…

1
How to Discuss Ukraine: First Principles, Facts, and Formulating Reasoned Positions 33:54

2M ago33:54

33:54

In this episode we dive into the complex issue of Ukraine, America's involvement, and the broader implications for democracy and global alliances. This episode is an exploration of how we can develop reasoned positions on global conflicts, engage in informed discussions, and recognize the limitations of our own expertise. What We Discuss How to app…

1
Rep. Ritchie Torres on Israel, Trump, and Political Extremism: A Congressman's Fight for Moral Clarity 31:18

2M ago31:18

31:18

In this episode we sit down with Congressman Ritchie Torres, a fighter from the Bronx who has spent his life advocating for his community. We discuss pressing issues such as the social safety net, housing inequality, mental health, bipartisanship, and Rep. Torres’ personal journey from public housing to Congress. We also touch on Israel, antisemiti…

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

2M ago1:06:54

1:06:54

In this timely edition of Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other, host Corey Nathan welcomes Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, D.C., and the Washington National Cathedral. Bishop Budde is a well-respected spiritual leader who has appeared on PBS NewsHour, Meet the Press, Good Morning Amer…

1
The #1 Antidote for Toxic Partisanship 30:26

2M ago30:26

30:26

In this episode, host Corey Nathan takes on one of the biggest challenges in today’s society: toxic partisanship. He explores how political and social divisions have deepened, fueled by media, social networks, and entrenched ideological battles. But rather than just diagnosing the problem, Corey offers a powerful antidote—getting local and engaging…

1
MONEY, LIES, AND GOD: INSIDE THE MOVEMENT TO DESTROY AMERICAN DEMOCRACY with author and investigative journalist Katherine Stewart 49:26

2M ago49:26

49:26

In this episode, host Corey Nathan welcomes investigative journalist and author Katherine Stewart back to the show. Katherine has spent over 15 years researching and reporting on religious nationalism and its impact on American democracy. Her new book, Money, Lies, and God: Inside the Movement to Destroy American Democracy, exposes the deep financi…

1
Have Christians Forgotten the First Commandment? 34:04

2M ago34:04

34:04

In this edition, Corey Nathan challenges listeners—especially his fellow Christians—to consider whether they have forgotten the first commandment: "Thou shalt have no other gods before Me." He explores how idolatry has evolved beyond worshiping wooden idols and now manifests in politics, ideology, and the way Christians engage with their faith in a…

1
California’s Path to Independence? A Conversation about CalExit with Marcus Ruiz Evans 1:06:36

3M ago1:06:36

1:06:36

In this episode, host Corey Nathan engages in a timely and candid discussion with Marcus Ruiz Evans, the leader of the CalExit movement. Marc has been spearheading efforts to make California an independent nation for over a decade, publishing California’s Next Century 2.0 in 2012. With the California Secretary of State recently approving a petition…

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The Homeless Conservative: Blake Fischer 1:15:08

3M ago1:15:08

1:15:08

In this episode, host Corey Nathan sits down with Blake Fischer, the creator and host of The Homeless Conservative podcast. Blake describes himself as a constitutional conservative who feels politically "homeless" in today’s climate. They dive deep into politics, faith, and media, all while challenging ideological silos in an engaging and candid co…

1
Jonathan Rauch: Christianity’s Broken Bargain with Democracy 1:30:00

3M ago1:30:00

1:30:00

In this episode, we welcome back Jonathan Rauch, senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a contributing writer at The Atlantic. Jon joined us to discuss his new book, Cross Purposes: Christianity’s Broken Bargain with Democracy. We dive deep into the intersection of faith, democracy, and civic engagement (that's our jam!), exploring how Amer…

1
7 Tools for Engaging With "Them" 46:36

3M ago46:36

46:36

Is it possible to have decent conversations across political differences. Short answer: Yeah! In this episode, 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 …

1
Sussing out Excellent Journalism from All the Crap with Julie Mason, SiriusXM Radio Host and Former White House Reporter 59:36

3M ago59:36

59:36

In this episode, host Corey Nathan reconnects with Julie Mason, renowned journalist and host of The Julie Mason Show on SiriusXM’s POTUS channel. Julie brings decades of experience in journalism, spanning local, state, and national politics, and shares her sharp insights on the evolving media landscape, political discourse, and the state of journal…

1
How Pro-Democracy Patriots Can Persist in an Anti-Democratic Time 32:36

3M ago32:36

32:36

In this episode, host Corey Nathan addresses the pressing issue of how pro-democracy patriots - the large coalition of folks who believe in this American experiment - can endure during times when anti-democratic tendencies are metastasizing. Drawing from personal experiences, philosophical insights, and cultural reflections, we explore ways of main…

1
Church for the Rest of Us in a Post-Evangelical World | with Joe Smith, Lead Pastor of Shift GNV 1:18:18

3M ago1:18:18

1:18:18

Is there a church that can be for the rest of us? Are we living in a "post-evangelical" world? In this episode, we welcome Joe Smith, lead pastor of Shift GNV in Gainesville, Florida, and host of the Shift Happens Podcast. Known for creating "a church for the rest of us," Joe shares his journey through faith deconstruction and reconstruction, build…

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The L.A. Wildfires Brought Out the Best of Us and Worst of Us 22:54

3M ago22:54

22:54

What has our response been to the wildfires in Los Angeles? Frankly, it's brought out some of the worst of us. But thankfully, there have also been many heroes from LA's firefighters and firefighters who came here from neighboring counties and states, to other countries including Mexico and Canada who lent manpower, vehicles and equipment, to every…

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

3M ago1:04:36

1:04:36

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 Substack, co-host of Democracy-ish Podcast, and author. Known for his humor and insight, Waj brings his unique perspective as a father, storyteller…

1
It's About Democracy and Decency 15:54

4M ago15:54

15:54

As we welcome in a new year, what is this moment about? What have we been leading up to? And what will the coming months and years be about? In this episode, Corey reflects on the importance of democracy and decency in today's polarized climate. Emphasizing respectful dialogue and the significance of national and local political involvement, we exp…

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Best of 2024 | Renovating Democracy with Danielle Allen: Democracy Advocate, Harvard Professor and Nonprofit Leader 1:02:18

4M ago1:02:18

1:02:18

(Given that yesterday was the 4 year anniversary of Jan. 6, 2021, an attempted violent disruption of the peaceful transfer of power, one of our nation's most cherished traditions, we thought it would be a good time to refresh our conversation with Prof. Danielle Allen who has been ensconced in the work of renovating our democratic institutions.) Ou…

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Best of 2024 | Anne Applebaum, Pulitzer-prize winning historian on AUTOCRACY, INC.: THE DICTATORS WHO WANT TO RUN THE WORLD 1:07:53

4M ago1:07:53

1:07:53

(Getting to speak with Anne Applebaum was such an honor. She's not only one of the world's most prominent historians and writers, Anne's focus on the fragility of democracy and emerging autocracies couldn't be more timely.) In the 20th Century, we had Cold War adversaries. In the early 2000s, George W. Bush talked about the Axis of Evil. But are th…

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Best of 2024 | Nancy French: NY Times best selling author, investigative journalist, storyteller... yet still gloriously feral! 1:15:18

4M ago1:15:18

1:15:18

(Speaking with Nancy was such a highlight of this year. In addition to all we discussed in this raw, beautiful, candid, downright funny conversation, I'm glad to report that subsequent to when we spoke, Nancy was able to "ring the bell" as a cancer survivor!) We’re joined by author, essayist, investigative journalist and the gloriously feral Nancy …

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Best of 2024 | Bill Kristol: Director of Defending Democracy Together and Editor at Large at The Bulwark 1:02:18

4M ago1:02:18

1:02:18

Yeah, this ages well. Seriously... This conversation with Bill Kristol was from April of this year. Some of the discussion applied to that moment in time (eg. bemoaning the Mets tepid start to the 2024 season); but much of it still applies even given the outcome of the latest election. With that, here are the notes from one of our "Best of 2024" co…

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Best of 2024 | Dr. Francis S. Collins: Are science and faith at odds? Or two different ways of understanding God's creation? 1:11:36

4M ago1:11:36

1:11:36

Are science and belief in God incompatible? Dr. Francis S. Collins, renowned for having led the Human Genome Project and the former Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), says science and faith are two different ways of understanding God's creation. We dove right in and had so much to explore! His father's folk music collection that i…

1
Best of 2024 | Tom Nichols on Harris-Walz vs. Trump-Vance... and as a special bonus, some Robert DeNiro Jeopardy! 59:56

4M ago59:56

59:56

(This was one of my favorite conversations of 2024 partly because Tom and I both did our best Robert DeNiro impressions toward the end.) Let's talk candidly about why Gov. Josh Shapiro of PA wasn't chosen as Kamala Harris's running mate. Let's also assess the merits and potential drawbacks of Gov. Tim Walz of MN as the Democratic VP candidate. Oh, …

1
Rabbi Sharon Brous, Founder of IKAR and Author of the AMEN EFFECT: Ancient Wisdom to Mend Our Broken Hearts and World 1:06:54

4M ago1:06:54

1:06:54

“All who entered the Temple Mount entered by the right, circled to the right and exited by the left, except for one to whom something had happened, who entered and circled to the left...” (Mishnah Middot) We're on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@politicsandreligion Rabbi Sharon Brous, the founding rabbi of IKAR and author of THE AMEN EFFECT, delv…

1
How should we respond to the election? Fight? Surrender? Or is there another way? 54:05

5M ago54:05

54:05

How should we respond to the election? Fight? Surrender? Or is there another way? Let's "Meet the Majority" and see if we can figure it out! We're on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@politicsandreligion As part of our "Meet the Majority" series, this is a candid conversation on ideological differences, election surprises, and friendship. In this e…

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Lanhee Chen, Public Policy Expert: "Coherence is overrated." 53:16

5M ago53:16

53:16

Is there any coherence to Trumpism from a policy standpoint? Public policy expert, Lanhee Chen, says coherence is overrated... at least at this moment. We're on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@politicsandreligion In this conversation with Lanhee Chen, we explore some hard questions in today's fraught political moment. As a key policy advisor to b…

1
Matt Lewis on Trump, Politics, Faith and Holiday Movies 1:10:29

5M ago1:10:29

1:10:29

Do you find yourself generally hopeful or really concerned about this 2nd Trump Administration? Or are you just grabbing your popcorn and buckling up for the ride? Author, Columnist and Podcaster, Matt Lewis helps us work through all this and more. We're on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@politicsandreligion We’re joined on this episode by Matt L…

1
ICYMI This American Church Chooses Neo-Crusaders Over Christ (and the Constitution) 34:36

5M ago34:36

34:36

Since a lot of folks were doing the whole thanksgiving thing, I guess we can consider this counter-programming. Either way, in case you missed it... Who's doing the canceling now? The leader doth protest too much... (the leaders of Presbyterian Church in America, that is.) We're on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@politicsandreligion We're on Patr…

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ICYMI - LARRY WILMORE: Writer, Producer, Actor, Mentor | black-ish, Black on the Air, ”Senior Black Correspondent” on The Daily Show and more 1:11:36

5M ago1:11:36

1:11:36

This was one of my favorite conversations over the last year or so. Figured it'd be nice to share it again... We are joined in this episode by Writer, Producer, Actor and Mentor, LARRY WILMORE! We discussed what drew Larry to comedy, writing, acting and producing; and, yes, we did talk about the WGA strike; why, as a kid, he was compelled by the wo…

1
Unmasking Christian Nationalism: A Deep Dive with Katherine Stewart 49:11

5M ago49:11

49:11

Katherine Stewart is an expert who has been investigating religious nationalism for over 15 years. Given the impact of Christian Nationalism on churches around the country as well as on our democracy, this conversation comes at a critical time. The discussion delves into Katherine's insights from her recent book, THE POWER WORSHIPPERS and the upcom…

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Meet the Majority: Conversations Across Our Differences With Lifelong Friend, Natalie 1:25:18

5M ago1:25:18

1:25:18

Someone I love voted for a different candidate at the top of the ticket. Can we still have a healthy, loving relationship? Can we still have any sort of relationship? Even when we disagree about something we feel so passionately about? We're on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@politicsandreligion It would mean so much if you could leave us a revie…

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Alternate Slate of Podcasters: A Republican, a Democrat and an Independent Reflect on the Election and a 2nd Trump Term 1:28:18

5M ago1:28:18

1:28:18

A Republican, a Democrat and an Independent walk into a podcast... We're on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@politicsandreligion It would mean so much if you could leave us a review: https://ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics So glad to have joined the hosts of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram, to discuss the election resu…

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Prof. Tommy Givens of Fuller | Q: "Are you an Evangelical?" A: "Yes. A bad one!" 1:44:36

5M ago1:44:36

1:44:36

Can Christians reckon with when the Bible is at odds with their political preferences, passions and prejudices? That just depends on who you ask. So we asked Dr. Tommy Givens, Assoc. Professor of New Testament Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary (and a pastor's kid to boot!), about Scripture, the church in America, and what the results of the el…

1
What the hell happened?!?! Meet the Majority. 31:04

6M ago31:04

31:04

In this episode, we take a hard look at what the hell happened in this election. Spoiler alert - What the hell happened, as our host fully admits: "I got it wrong!" So we look at specific ways any number of folks got it wrong. We also reflect on misconceptions about voters' values - what many of us wrongly assumed were shared values and priorities.…

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(In Case You Missed/Could Use It) Navigating Mental Health Amidst Election Stress: Practical Tools and Personal Insights 37:38

6M ago37:38

37:38

How are you? No, really. How ARE you? Candidly, I’m having a hard time with how things played out on Tuesday. So, we thought it’d be good to re-visit this conversation about mental health from a couple months ago. The tools covered here have certainly helped me over the years. And hopefully you’ll find this helpful as well. Perhaps this whole elect…

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