Last summer, something monumental happened. One of Uncuffed's founding producers, Greg Eskridge, came home after more than 30 years in prison. In this episode we’ll bring you back to that emotional day last summer when he walked out of the San Quentin gates, free at last. Our work in prisons is supported by the California Arts Council, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, independent foundations, and donations from listeners like you. Learn more, sign up for Uncuffed news, and support the program at www.weareuncuffed.org Follow us @WeAreUncuffed on Instagram and Facebook Transcripts are available within a week of the episode coming out at www.kalw.org/podcast/uncuffed…
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Reimagining Us
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Content provided by TogetherUp, Next Chapter Podcasts and Nichole Argo. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by TogetherUp, Next Chapter Podcasts and Nichole Argo or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
Reimagining Us is not just another conversation series—it’s a vital tool for healing divisions, designing our lives and communities for belonging, and empowering a movement of “builders.” Hosted by two distinguished leaders from the fields of psychology and equity-building, the show takes a nuanced look at the forces that fuel division and highlights actionable paths toward reconnection. As the nation navigates a post-election landscape rife with challenges, Reimagining Us offers a timely and necessary space for discovery, dialogue, and change. Throughout America, our neighborhoods and local communities find themselves at an unprecedented moment. Pundits and political leaders roil us in toxically polarized, "us vs. them" narratives. In many places, our communities are marked by mistrust, fear of or inability to engage neighbors across differences, and loneliness & isolation. What can make us resilient? The answer is easy but profound: Each other. Our communities thrive when they are places of belonging for all. It’s time to rebuild the “we” – a bigger sense of “we” than what we see around us today. And no moment could be more critical to do this than now: Regardless who emerges victorious in November, half the country will feel left behind, or worse, betrayed. Local communities are the life force of democracy, but belonging doesn’t just happen by default. The way for folks to begin to imagine a feasible/fair future is to begin to experience themselves as mattering, as belonging in their communities, now – in their families, their neighborhoods, their grocery stores, their town halls, in all aspects of their daily lives. And we’re not talking about being “nice” or polite. We–all of us— need to design our lives and communities for belonging, to be intentional about how we show up, and how we create spaces for others to show up—both through our interactions and the structures and systems we put in place. And we need to start at home, in our communities. HOSTS: Nichole Argo is the Founder and Executive Director of TogetherUp Institute Scott Hutcheson is the Executive Director of E Pluribus Unum Produced by Next Chapter Podcasts
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Reimagining Us is not just another conversation series—it’s a vital tool for healing divisions, designing our lives and communities for belonging, and empowering a movement of “builders.” Hosted by two distinguished leaders from the fields of psychology and equity-building, the show takes a nuanced look at the forces that fuel division and highlights actionable paths toward reconnection. As the nation navigates a post-election landscape rife with challenges, Reimagining Us offers a timely and necessary space for discovery, dialogue, and change. Throughout America, our neighborhoods and local communities find themselves at an unprecedented moment. Pundits and political leaders roil us in toxically polarized, "us vs. them" narratives. In many places, our communities are marked by mistrust, fear of or inability to engage neighbors across differences, and loneliness & isolation. What can make us resilient? The answer is easy but profound: Each other. Our communities thrive when they are places of belonging for all. It’s time to rebuild the “we” – a bigger sense of “we” than what we see around us today. And no moment could be more critical to do this than now: Regardless who emerges victorious in November, half the country will feel left behind, or worse, betrayed. Local communities are the life force of democracy, but belonging doesn’t just happen by default. The way for folks to begin to imagine a feasible/fair future is to begin to experience themselves as mattering, as belonging in their communities, now – in their families, their neighborhoods, their grocery stores, their town halls, in all aspects of their daily lives. And we’re not talking about being “nice” or polite. We–all of us— need to design our lives and communities for belonging, to be intentional about how we show up, and how we create spaces for others to show up—both through our interactions and the structures and systems we put in place. And we need to start at home, in our communities. HOSTS: Nichole Argo is the Founder and Executive Director of TogetherUp Institute Scott Hutcheson is the Executive Director of E Pluribus Unum Produced by Next Chapter Podcasts
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Reimagining Us
1 Episode 8 - "Bright Spots: The Needham Resilience Network” 52:56
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedIn this episode, Nichole and Scott explore how philanthropy is getting behind work to connect and collaborate across differences at the local level with Kristen Scott Kennedy of the Council on Foundations. They then highlight a scalable example of this work: The Needham Resilience Network (NRN) brings town officials, diverse residents, and key stakeholders together to build relationships, anchor in the concept of belonging, learn skills in communicating across differences, and co-create solutions to local problems. This episode opens with Kristen Scott Kennedy discussing how philanthropy can play a critical role in place-based work to connect across differences by acting as norm-shapers, modeling collaborative strategies, and supporting nonprofits. Then, Needham Resilience Network members Bala Venkat, John Schlittler, Rabbi Jay Perlman, Marcus Nelson, Dan Gutekanst, and Beth Pinals talk about how the NRN has influenced their lives and transformed their community. The NRN was founded in response to significant challenges faced by the Needham community in Massachusetts, including demographic shifts, increased hate incidents, and distrust between groups. Actionable Takeaways: For Individuals, Nonprofits, and Municipal Officials: Adopt the Long View: Recognize that meaningful cultural and social change will require ongoing commitment and care. Emphasize Collaboration Amongst Diverse Stakeholders for Greater Impact: Cultivate broad partnerships and coalitions across organizations, community leaders, and residents to co-create impactful events and initiatives. Involve both formal and informal leaders who represent different parts of the community, including marginalized groups. Invest in Relationships: Develop protocols and nurture relationships in stable times to prepare for future challenges. Encourage Diverse Voices: Actively invite underrepresented groups to participate in community dialogues and leadership. Elevate Belonging: Incorporate narratives and activities that foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Employ Evidence-Based Design, & Do No Harm: Prioritize evidence-based approaches to programming; design with an eye towards “Do No Harm”; and begin initiatives with a "listening tour" to understand community needs and build trust . Center on Skill-Building: Train participants in listening to understand vs. persuade and conflict transformation skills Leverage Local Data for Reflection & Relationship-Building: Incorporate local data to ground discussions in shared realities and enable storytelling around lived experiences. Foster Community Co-Governance: Create channels for community involvement in governance, focusing on shared values and co-creation. Utilize Networks During Crises: Maintain open communication channels with diverse groups to resolve conflicts with sensitivity. Engage Local Foundations: Identify and partner with local or regional foundations that are invested in the community. For Philanthropic Organizations: Model Best Practices in Pluralism: Use your freedom to showcase innovative approaches to collaboration, influencing broader societal norms. Invest in Local Partners: Strengthen community-based nonprofits that are on the frontlines of building connection and resilience. Resources: READ: “ Coming Together, Not Apart: How Philanthropy Supports Connection in a Time of Dangerous Division ,” and “ Coming Together, Not Apart: Inside the Work of Turning Conflict Into Cooperation ,” by the Council on Foundations WATCH: The Needham Resilience Network information video VISIT: The NRN website READ: “ My Parting Prescription for America ,” by former Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, Jan 7, 2025. Community as the formula for fulfillment. HOSTS: Nichole Argo is the Founder and Executive Director of TogetherUp Institute Scott Hutcheson is the Executive Director of E Pluribus Unum Produced by Next Chapter Podcasts…
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In this episode, Nichole and Scott talk about how individual and group efforts to revitalize connection in communities are necessary---but may not be sufficient for sustained change. Once we have the mindset and skills of pluralism, we need spaces and institutions that enable us to practice them. We need local governments and community stakeholders to invest in policies that foster “civic infrastructure.” Special guests Sam Pressler and Layla Zaidane help us explore the role of policy and institutions in fostering this kind of connection. In order to thrive, Sam Pressler argues that local governments and community leaders should refocus on building civic life, prioritizing relationships and belonging as part of their policies and initiatives. Sam introduces the Connective Tissue Framework , which identifies over 150 policy opportunities to strengthen community connections, and highlights examples of this work, like Boston's Office of Civic Organizing (which fosters neighborhood interactions through block party grants and cleanup events) and citizen-government partnerships to create welcoming materials for newcomers, or “Old Home Weeks” to bring former residents back for community-building activities. Layla Zaidane, the President and CEO of Future Caucus, describes how organizations focused on relationship building can promote collaboration across differences, just as Future Caucus does with young elected officials, regardless of political affiliation—by leveraging a shared, third identity (for Future Caucus, generation). While receiving training in leadership, communication, negotiation and bridge-building, young lawmakers build personal relationships, allowing them to see beyond polarization and find common ground across the aisle. Layla emphasizes the importance of “institutionalizing relationships across differences” in order to ensure continued contact and support. Actionable Steps For Communities: Create Inclusive Spaces: Develop public parks, libraries, and community centers as hubs for connection. Design accessible spaces that encourage diverse groups to gather and interact. Promote Civic Engagement: Organize town-wide events like block parties, festivals, or cultural celebrations. Start initiatives like "Neighborhood Watch" or "Adopt-a-Street" programs to foster collaboration. Develop Welcome Initiatives: Create welcome kits for newcomers with resources about local services and groups and host orientation meet-and-greets to integrate new residents. Support Bridging Activities: Provide micro-grants for projects that bring different groups together, such as intergenerational programs or cross-cultural events. Encourage shared-use facilities for meetings, classes, or celebrations. Use a Connection Lens in Policy: Embed policies that strengthen social capital into housing, education, and transportation planning. Incentivize participatory design in public projects to ensure residents feel a sense of ownership. HOSTS: Nichole Argo is the Founder and Executive Director of TogetherUp Institute Scott Hutcheson is the Executive Director of E Pluribus Unum Produced by Next Chapter Podcasts…
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1 Episode 6 - "Be The Change - Part II - Tool Chest" 52:58
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedImagine that four experts on bridging divides came together to advise you on how to handle your next challenging conversation…Voila! Meet the “Be The Change” tool chest! On this episode of Reimagining Us, hosts Nichole Argo and Scott Hutcheson ask questions such as: What strategies can I use to build my curiosity muscle? How do I prepare for a conversation across differences? Do I need to bridge with everyone? How do you engage with someone who isn’t interested in being curious? What do you do in a conversation where you think, “This person is crazy!” What do you do when someone says something offensive, or harmful? What’s a good dialogue strategy for sharing my position? John Sarrouf, Melissa Weintraub, Monica Guzman, and Scott Shigeoka share actionable tools and strategies for fostering curiosity, connection and understanding that can help listeners engage effectively in conversations across differences. Use this tool chest as a foundation that you can return to again and again as you connect across differences! Actionable Takeaways: Prepare for Conversations Challenge Your Echo Chambers: Write down whose perspectives you’re not exposed to, or haven’t considered. Plan to engage with at least one new source of information or person this week. Reflect on Your Motivation. Approach each conversation as an opportunity to learn, understand others, and uncover the complexity of an issue. Question “single story” narratives that depict individuals or groups as “just one thing.” Name and Check Your Assumptions. Write down your assumptions (e.g., “They think I’m lazy”) and test them by seeking direct feedback when appropriate. Consider Your Bridging Boundaries. We don’t have to bridge with everyone – it’s okay to opt out if engagement feels too costly. That said, reflect on whether your "red lines" stem from a lack of understanding or genuine need for emotional safety. Practice Mental Preparation : Rehearse your approach before your next challenging conversation. Visualize questions, reactions, and ways to stay curious. During Engagement Move Divisive Conversations Off Social Media to encourage richer dialogue. Consider calling or meeting in person. Use “Splitting”: Start conversations by clarifying what you don’t mean to address potential misunderstandings and ease the other person’s concerns. Then focus on explaining your position in a way that opens space for understanding rather than entrenching divides. Recognize When You’re Feeling Triggered as this often shifts your motives from understanding to self-defense or domination . Take proactive steps—pause, reframe, or share your feelings calmly. Approach Offensive or Harmful Remarks with honesty about your feelings. Avoid shaming or dominating; instead, seek to understand the deeper values behind others’ perspectives. After Engagement Question Your Priors on Success and Failure. Success is not about changing minds but about fostering understanding and maintaining or repairing relationships. Conversations that allow for moments of discovery, even if minor, are inherently successful. Trust Curiosity and Be Patient. Curiosity and openness can build understanding over time. Resources Read I NEVER THOUGHT OF IT THAT WAY: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times by Monica Guzman Read SEEK: How Curiosity Can Transform Your Life and Change the World , by Scott Shigeoka Visit Essential Partners at www.whatisessential.org Visit Resetting the Table at www.resettingthetable.org For more information or to share your stories and feedback, email info@togetherup.org , or comment on YouTube and Social Media @togetherupinstitute HOSTS: Nichole Argo is the Founder and Executive Director of TogetherUp Institute Scott Hutcheson is the Executive Director of E Pluribus Unum Produced by Next Chapter Podcasts…
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1 Episode 6 - "Be The Change - Part I - Key Insights” 33:27
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedIn Part I, Nichole and Scott invite three top thought leaders to share foundational insights that can help listeners connect across differences. Curiosity is a bridge to connection, an essential tool allowing us to explore the stories, values, and perspectives of others, says Scott Shigeoka, author of SEEK. It strengthens personal, work and civic relationships…“People who feel seen, stay.” Activating curiosity also generates dopamine, a feel-good neurochemical, and is tied to creativity, problem-solving and innovation, and better health. Like any muscle, our ability to be curious grows stronger with practice..and it’s contagious! Dialogue is different from well-intended conversations, according to John Sarrouf, co-Executive Director at Essential Partners, because it focuses on mutual understanding rather than persuasion or debate, seeks the complexity in different perspectives, and is designed to avoid defensive patterns (e.g., attack, defend, or withdraw). Every one of us can learn these skills. Avoiding differences to focus solely on common ground can be counterproductive, says Melissa Weintraub, co-Executive Director at Resetting the Table. People feel seen and valued when their perspectives are acknowledged, which is why engaging with differences builds trust and can serve as a springboard for collaboration (or repair amidst challenges). Actionable Takeaways: Build the Curiosity Muscle: Regularly engage in conversations with people holding different perspectives. Use curiosity to approach disagreements or complex problems by seeking alternative perspectives and solutions. Practice active listening and ask open-ended questions to understand others deeply. Adopt Dialogue Skills: In challenging discussions, listen to understand rather than persuade. Focus on understanding the other person’s beliefs, the stories behind them, and the complexity of their views. Engage Differences with Openness: When faced with divisive topics, lean into the discomfort rather than avoiding it. Use differences as an opportunity to build deeper relationships and mutual respect. Create New Patterns for Collaboration: Establish norms of deep listening, respectful inquiry, and reflection in group settings. Use these patterns to foster trust and resilience during joint projects or coalition-building. Apply Multivocality: Explore opposing views by seeking out their most reasonable and eloquent explanations. This doesn’t require agreement but promotes a nuanced understanding of where differences truly lie. Revisit Dialogue in Tough Moments: When action-oriented efforts hit roadblocks, return to dialogue to rebuild trust, clarify misunderstandings, and reignite progress. Resources Read SEEK: How Curiosity Can Transform Your Life and Change the World , by Scott Shigeoka Visit Essential Partners at www.whatisessential.org for free resources, dialogue facilitation guides, or to sign up for training. Visit Resetting the Table at www.resettingthetable.org for workshops and events near you, or to sign up for training. For more information or to share your stories and feedback, email info@togetherup.org, or comment on YouTube and Social Media @togetherupinstitute HOSTS: Nichole Argo is the Founder and Executive Director of TogetherUp Institute Scott Hutcheson is the Executive Director of E Pluribus Unum Produced by Next Chapter Podcasts…
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1 Episode 5 - "Belonging: A North Star for our Communities” with john a. powell 47:46
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedIn this episode, Nichole and Scott are joined by john a. powell, who leads them in an exploration of belonging while contrasting it with the damaging effects of othering. By understanding and addressing the dynamics of belonging and othering, communities can create spaces where everyone thrives. Belonging is a fundamental human need that reflects feeling seen, heard, and valued in a community. Othering is when we fail to see others' humanity or treat differences as threats to belonging. It is not differences alone that cause othering, but the socially constructed significance that is given to them. Belonging and othering are relationship with one another in part because othering is often a misguided tool used to create belonging, when groups bond by excluding or vilifying others. john describes bridging---recognizing the humanity in others through compassionate listening and valuing their perspectives, even without agreement---as the antidote to 'othering.' Bridging is not about persuasion or conflict resolution --- it is about compassionate listening, to create trust and understanding. He talks about how small, intentional acts of bridging can feed a collective vision of connection and belonging. But boundaries are essential. For example, one may refuse to bridge with those who condone violence. In addition to bridging, shifts in collective identity can be driven by storytelling that enables larger "we" groups to form (e.g., via religion, national identity, and other forms of common values, interests, or humanity). Actionable Steps for Individuals: Reflect on how one's reactions to differences can either perpetuate or counteract othering. Recognize and challenge socially constructed differences that perpetuate division. Practice compassionate listening in conversations, focusing on understanding rather than persuasion. Start with "short bridges" (e.g., family, neighbors who hold differing perspectives) by listening compassionately and acknowledging what matters to them. Set boundaries to ensure bridging efforts align with personal values and safety. Encourage others to adopt bridging practices by sharing tools and techniques discussed in the episode. Support leaders and initiatives that depolarize their audiences by emphasizing mutual understanding over fearmongering. Actionable Steps for Leaders & Communities: Promote the idea of belonging as a goal for inclusive communities. Promote dialogue and education to counter fear-based narratives. Focus on shared values and common humanity to build bridges across polarized or fragmented communities. Share stories and examples of bridging, like Nelson Mandela’s or others in the podcast, to inspire collective action. Equip residents with tools and structures/systems to process change and uncertainty in collaborative, non-polarizing ways. Resources Read Belonging Without Othering by john a. powell and Stephen Menendian Read The Power of Bridging by john a. powell, with Rachelle Galloway-Popotas Take free classes with the Othering and Belonging Institute at OBI University . For more information or to share your stories and feedback, email info@togetherup.org, or comment on YouTube and Social Media @togetherupinstitute HOSTS: Nichole Argo is the Founder and Executive Director of TogetherUp Institute Scott Hutcheson is the Executive Director of E Pluribus Unum Produced by Next Chapter Podcasts…
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1 Episode 4 - “Want to be Resilient? Build Local, Build Now” with Seth Kaplan and John Paul Lederach 46:48
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedIn this episode, Nichole and Scott begin with a startling figure from Amanda Ripley’s book, Unthinkable: 90 percent of counties in the U. S. were declared federal disaster zones over a 10 year period from 2011 to 2021. These disasters, which largely represented extreme weather, are here to stay – how can our local communities become resilient? International research says the most important factor is strong, pre-existing relationships across differences. So what state are our communities in today, and how can we strengthen them? Nichole and Scott first welcome Dr. Seth Kaplan , author of Fragile Neighborhoods: Repairing American Society One Zip Code at a Time . Seth discusses how local relationships and institutions—once the backbone of communities—have eroded over the past 50 years. The resulting disconnection has left many neighborhoods without the trust, engagement, and collaboration needed to thrive, much less tackle modern challenges. To rebuild, Seth emphasizes how hyper-local efforts can collectively lead to broader societal change. He says, “Every journey starts with the first step—take it.” In the second half of the episode, Nichole and Scott are joined by Dr. John Paul Lederach , a renowned peacebuilding expert. They ask a question that has come up more frequently in recent years: Is the country heading towards civil war, e.g., are our communities more susceptible to political violence? John Paul suggests that while the United States is not likely heading toward a traditional civil war, localized violence fueled by fear and survivalist mindsets could escalate. To counter this, John Paul emphasizes the need to address community divides through relationships. Both Seth and John Paul believe we can turn the tide by starting small and local, focusing on rebuilding trust through interpersonal relationships and collaborative action. They emphasize the importance of intentionality, courage, and persistence, encouraging individuals to take incremental yet impactful steps toward creating resilient and inclusive communities. Whether it’s hosting a block party or engaging in sustained dialogue, the overarching goal is to create relational connections that can withstand challenges and foster unity amidst diversity. CALL TO ACTION: Individuals can: Build Local Connections . Introduce yourself to your neighbors, or host community meals, block parties, or other informal gatherings. Reach Across Divides. Take intentional steps to connect with people outside your immediate social or ideological circles. Begin by having conversations to understand their perspectives and experiences. Collaborate with a few like-minded individuals to start neighborhood-focused activities, like book clubs or community improvement projects. Work with local organizations, governments, or schools to promote spaces and activities that encourage social interaction and community bonding. Commit to Sustained Dialogue . Engage in ongoing conversations even when they are challenging. Building trust and understanding is a long-term process that requires persistence and openness. Municipalities and Community Foundations can: Create initiatives that prioritize building relationships as a central goal. Offer small grants to encourage small-scale, hyper-local collaboration, such as neighbors working together to improve streets or parks. Scale these efforts neighborhood by neighborhood , strengthening bonds within and across communities to ensure sustainable progress. Create and monitor metrics to assess neighborhood health, such as levels of trust, social mobility, and relational dynamics. Create an “Office of social connection” or an “Office of neighborhood health” to enhance social connectivity and reduce inequality. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Pick up these books: Fragile Neighborhoods: Repairing American Society One Zip Code at a Time by Seth Kaplan Pocket Guide to Facing Down a Civil War by John Paul Lederach…
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1 Episode 3 - “Know It, Name It, Inoculate Against It” with Peter Coleman and Stephen Hawkins 43:35
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedIn this episode of Reimagining Us , co-hosts Nichole Argo and Scott Hutcheson delve deeper into the pervasive dynamics of toxic polarization, exploring how societal divisions manifest as "us versus them" thinking in our own lives and communities, and how awareness and intentionality enables us to counter it. They are joined by Dr. Peter Coleman , author of The Way Out: How to Overcome Toxic Polarization and a renowned expert in conflict resolution. Peter opens with a Cherokee parable that highlights the agency each of us has in choosing to feed positivity or negativity within ourselves and our society. He notes, however, that our brains are wired to react to perceived threats, and this mechanism can be manipulated by actors employing zero-sum frames and extreme political rhetoric on social media and mainstream national news sources. But tribalism is not the only game in town! Peter highlights the growing movement of bridge-building initiatives across the U.S. and emphasizes that positive societal change will come from individual and community efforts to foster connection and mutual respect. He offers five actionable strategies for bridging differences in our own challenged relationships: (1) Reset; (2) Look for positives; (3) Complicate the narrative; (4) Move together; and (5) Adapt. Next, Stephen Hawkins , the Director of Research at More in Common, describes how two-thirds of Americans, the exhausted majority feel alienated by today’s polarization. While diverse politically, ideologically, and demographically, this group shares a desire for compromise and less adversarial politics. Stephen then introduces the perception gap —how Americans often misjudge the views of those across the political aisle, exaggerating their extremity. Politically engaged and highly educated individuals tend to have the most distorted perceptions— in part because they are more exposed to ideologically charged news and have limited cross-partisan relationships. Stephen notes that awareness of the perception gap can reduce polarization and build warmth across divides. He calls on listeners to take small but impactful steps, like: (1) consuming more diverse media, and intentionally seeking news from sources that challenge their own views, (2) sharing corrected perceptions of the “other team” within their trusted networks to break echo chambers, (3) starting curious conversations across differences, and (4) serving as bridge-builders in their communities. For more information or to share your stories and feedback, email info@togetherup.org, or comment on YouTube and Social Media @togetherupinstitute Call to Action: In your own challenged relationships: (1) Reset; (2) Look for positives; (3) Complicate the narrative; (4) Move together; (5) Adapt (listen to the interview for more detail) More broadly: Seek out diverse perspectives in your media consumption. Build relationships with people across divides. Share insights on the exhausted majority and the perception gap within your network, and correct misconceptions when you become aware of them. For more information : Pick up Peter Coleman’s book, The Way Out: How to Overcome Toxic Polarization Take the 30-day Polarization Detox Challenge, a partnership between Peter Coleman and Starts With Us Check out just how much Americans have in common by exploring More in Common’s research: www.moreincommon.com .…
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1 Episode 2: "Toxic Polarization and Its Antidote---Pluralism," with Daniel Stid 32:34
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedOn this episode of Reimagining Us, co hosts Nichole Argo and Scott Hutcheson have a conversation with Daniel Stid focused on toxic polarization and the importance of pluralism in countering it. In contrast to ideological polarization, where people disagree with each other but can still work together, toxic polarization refers to when people dislike and even dehumanize their political opponents, seeing each other as a threat not just to ideas but to their values, identities, and social groups. However, perceptions of the opponents and their views are often inaccurate. Toxic polarization leads to a breakdown of relationships and the contamination of various, non-political domains of life. Pluralism, on the other hand, involves recognizing and valuing the diversity of perspectives and working towards mutual understanding and accommodation. It requires virtues such as tolerance and reciprocity. Pluralism at the local level can be fostered through individual commitment, building relationships across differences, and investing in civic spaces and institutions. Daniel Stid is the Executive Director of Lyceum Labs, a nonprofit dedicated to reimagining the roles of political leaders and parties in the 21st century. He is a visiting fellow at the SNF Agora Institute at Johns Hopkins University, and his blog, the Art of Association explores the interplay between civil society and democracy in America. He is the author of The President As Statesman: Woodrow Wilson And The Constitution . In this episode, we also hear briefly from Peter Coleman and Stephen Hawkins, our primary guests in Episode 3. For more information or to share your stories and feedback, email info@togetherup.org, or comment on YouTube and Social Media @togetherupinstitute HOSTS: Nichole Argo is the Founder and Executive Director of TogetherUp Institute Scott Hutcheson is the Executive Director of E Pluribus Unum Produced by Next Chapter Podcasts…
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Reimagining Us
1 Episode 1 - Why This Podcast, Now? Bridging Divides and Rebuilding Communities 30:46
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedOn the debut episode of Reimagining Us , Nichole and Scott share their personal stories, explain how they came together to cohost the show and relay their vision and the purpose for the series answering the question: 'Why this podcast, now?' Reimagining Us is not just another conversation series—it’s a vital tool for healing divisions, designing our lives and communities for belonging, and empowering a movement of “builders.” Hosted by two distinguished leaders from the fields of psychology and equity-building, the show takes a nuanced look at the forces that fuel division and highlights actionable paths toward reconnection. As the nation navigates a post-election landscape rife with challenges, Reimagining Us offers a timely and necessary space for discovery, dialogue, and change. Nichole Argo, Ph.D. : A behavioral scientist and Founder/Executive Director of the TogetherUp Institute , Nichole brings cutting-edge insights from the psychology of human conflict and connection to understand why we feel divided, and what we can do about it. Scott Hutcheson : Executive Director of E Pluribus Unum, Scott offers a wealth of experience addressing systemic inequities and fostering meaningful collaboration across race, class, and culture in the Deep South and beyond. As a region often at the epicenter of racial, political, and economic divides, the Deep South offers a powerful lens for exploring and addressing these issues nationwide. Together, Nichole and Scott create a dynamic, solutions-oriented conversation that engages listeners with authenticity, curiosity, and expertise. For more information or to share your stories and feedback, email info@togetherup.org, or comment on YouTube and Social Media @togetherupinstitute Reimagining Us is produced by Next Chapter Podcasts…
Reimagining Us is a podcast series that "lifts the hood" to uncover what's behind our feelings of division today, identify how we can rebuild connection and collaboration across differences in communities. The show is hosted by behavioral scientist Nichole Argo, the Founder and Executive Director of the TogetherUp Institute & Scott Hutcheson, Executive Director of E Pluribus Unum. HOSTS: Nichole Argo is the Founder and Director of Research at TogetherUp Institute Scott Hutcheson is the Executive Director of E Pluribus Unum Produced by Next Chapter Podcasts…
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