Post Reports How a former politics columnist is finding awe
Nov 28, 2025
Dana Milbank, a former Washington Post opinions columnist, has traded political reporting for writing about life on his Virginia farm. He explores how feeling awe can reduce stress and foster connection. Milbank shares practical ways to embrace awe daily, like stargazing and art appreciation. He discusses the importance of face-to-face interactions to combat societal polarization and offers insights on maintaining a positive outlook amidst chaos. Tune in for a refreshing perspective on rehumanizing civic life and the world around us.
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From City Columnist To Farmer
- Dana Milbank bought a farm and taught himself country skills like tractor driving and hunting.
- Writing about farm life drew passionate reader interest and helped him leave the political beat.
Rehumanizing Over More Columns
- Milbank argues rehumanizing work is more essential than more op-eds to fix political dysfunction.
- He sees restoring connection to nature and community as addressing deeper societal breakdowns.
Seek Tiny Nature To Trigger Awe
- Slow down and use a hand lens to study small natural things like grass flowers to feel awe.
- You can find awe in tiny, everyday places, not only in grand landscapes.