The #1 Antidote for Toxic Partisanship

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 in real-life, face-to-face conversations. He draws inspiration from scholars like Jonathan Haidt, Katherine Stewart and Robert Putnam, as well as his personal experiences, to make a compelling case for community-based solutions to polarization. What We Discuss ✅ The real extent of political division in America—and why it's not as bad as it seems✅ How social media and national narratives exaggerate our differences✅ The philosophy of Carl Schmitt and its impact on modern political discourse✅ Why local engagement—like city council meetings, PTAs, and even bar conversations—is the key to bridging divides✅ Practical steps to foster meaningful discussions and rebuild relationships Episode Highlights ⏳ [00:02:00] – The growing problem of toxic partisanship and how social media makes it worse⏳ [00:05:00] – A study from More in Common shows Americans want unity, but doubt the other side does⏳ [00:09:00] – Corey shares personal examples of online political attacks and how they reflect broader polarization⏳ [00:14:00] – A key solution: Local engagement and organizations like Village Square⏳ [00:17:00] – How shared community goals, like better roads and schools, help bridge ideological divides⏳ [00:20:00] – The inspiring story of Joe Walsh and Fred Guttenberg: Two ideological opposites who became close friends⏳ [00:23:00] – The challenge of engaging with people who seem beyond reach—and knowing when to step away⏳ [00:26:00] – A call to action: Take the first step, invite someone for coffee, and start humanizing one another Featured Quotes 🗨️ "Division defines the country, but the desire to be united transcends parties." – More in Common study🗨️ "The number one antidote to toxic partisanship is simply getting together." – Corey Nathan🗨️ "When you're with each other, you're no longer just a data point—you’re a human being." – Corey Nathan🗨️ "We don't have to agree on everything to build something better together." – Liz Joyner, Village Square Resources Mentioned 🔗 Village Square – Bridging divides through local community engagement🔗 More in Common Study – Research on polarization and unity🔗 Jonathan Haidt’s Work – Understanding social and political divisions🔗 Robert Putnam’s Bowling Alone – How community engagement strengthens democracy🔗 Joe Walsh & Fred Guttenberg’s Story – Bridging the political divide 📣 Call to Action If you found this conversation insightful, please:✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform.✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen: ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics✅ Support the show on Patreon: patreon.com/politicsandreligion✅ Watch the full conversation on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion 🔗 Connect With Us on Social Media @coreysnathan: Bluesky LinkedIn Instagram Threads Facebook Substack   Our Sponsors Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com Prolux Autogroup: www.proluxautogroup.com or www.granadahillsairporttransportation.com  🔥 Now go talk some politics and religion—without killin' each other! 🔥