This Might Get Awkward

In this episode, social psychologist Dr. Kurt Gray explains why outrage feels so constant in modern politics, and why it’s more real, more human, and more fear-based than we often assume. Author of the book "Outraged", Kurt breaks down the steps to quell outrage and find moral ground. He describes why our brains are wired to fixate on harm and the role of social media in creating stress...

In this episode, MacArthur Fellow and lifelong human rights activist Loretta J. Ross shares why humor may be one of the smartest ways to fight fascism, and why outrage alone often falls short. Drawing on more than 50 years of activism, including her work deprogramming white supremacists, Loretta explains the philosophy of her new book “Calling In: How to Start Making Change with Those You'd R...

In this episode, former naval officer and Republican candidate Aaron Dimmock talks about what it really takes to stay honest; in politics, in community, and with ourselves. He reflects on polarization, party identity, and the cultural forces that make admitting mistakes feel risky. Through stories from military life, his congressional run, and everyday human moments, Aaron explores why transparenc...

Independent journalist Aaron Parnas shares how growing up in a partisan household shaped his early conservative political views, and how moving out helped him rethink what he believed. With Scott and Allison, they explore online polarization, identity, media ecosystems, and why social media makes the country feel more divided than it really is. Aaron explains why 80% of Americans actually agree on...

Psychologist Caroline Fleck joins Allison and Scott to reveal the one tool that helps us connect with those with whom we may disagree. Caroline, a Stanford psychologist and author of the book "Validation", breaks down why we confuse validation with agreement, how fear shapes our political reactions, and why finding even a “kernel of truth” in someone’s perspective can transform conflict...

Amanda Knox learned the hard way that facts don’t always change minds. After spending eight years on trial for a murder she didn’t commit, she’s now using stand-up comedy to reclaim her story in her own voice. Scott and Allison ask her why people cling to their beliefs, how humor can break through bias, and they play an improv game to help Amanda workshop new jokes. 03:50 – Amanda using standup to...

Could "Yes, and..." mend America's cultural and political divide? Psychologist Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman and comedian Allison Reese put improv's golden rule to the test. They laugh, listen and spar with those on the frontlines of our divide, from polarizing public figures to the social scientists who study it. And if they can't mend it, they'll at least have a good laug...