This is the first episode in a three-part series about how to have difficult conversations with people who see the world differently, how to have better debates about contentious issues, and how to ethically and scientifically persuade one another about things that matter – in short, this is a three-part series about How Minds Change (which is also the title of my new book).There seems to be a movement afoot, a new wave of nonfiction about how to reduce all this argumentative madness and epistemic chaos. I want to boost everyone's signal on this issue, so I thought it would be nice to collaborate instead of compete, since that's part of what we are all proselytizing with these books.So this episode’s guest is Mónica Guzmán, the author of I Never Thought of It That Way – a book with very practical advice on how to have productive conversations in a polarized political environment via authentic curiosity about where people’s opinions, attitudes, and values come from. In short, it’s about how to reduce polarization and learn from those with whom we disagree by establishing the sort of dynamic in which they will eagerly learn from us as well.- How Minds Change: www.davidmcraney.com/howmindschangehome- Show Notes: www.youarenotsosmart.com- Newsletter: https://davidmcraney.substack.com- David McRaney’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidmcraney- YANSS Twitter: https://twitter.com/notsmartblog- Mónica Guzmán’s Website: https://www.moniguzman.com- Mónica Guzmán’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/moniguzman- I Never Thought of it That Way: https://www.moniguzman.com/book- Braver Angels: https://braverangels.org- My Article on Intellectual Humility: https://bigthink.com/the-well/change-your-mind-intellectual-humility/

Monica Guzmán, author of 'How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times' discusses bridging political divides, the impact of social media on conversations, the consequence of shortening the congressional work week, the power of curiosity and understanding, changing views through open dialogue, the social risk of pursuing curiosity, and recognizing humanity in political discourse.

When was the last time you really connected with someone who disagrees with you? Or saw a post on social media that challenged your views? Or listened to a newscast from across the political aisle? Modern life places us in all kinds of echo chambers – so what happens when these divides stop us from actually seeing and understanding one another? Today’s guest, journalist Mónica Guzmán, is the daughter of Mexican immigrants who voted –twice– for Donald Trump. Now the chief storyteller for “Braver Angels”, an organization dedicated to political depolarization, Monica shares the tools she uses to find common ground with her loved ones. She talks about why interacting with (and listening to) different points of view is critical work – and how through curiosity we can achieve the seemingly impossible task of understanding those we tend to think of as our enemy. Her book, “I Never Thought of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times” is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mónica Guzmán, a journalist and author of "I Never Thought of It That Way," shares her insights on fostering deeper conversations in our divided society. She emphasizes the importance of curiosity in political dialogues and offers practical tools to find common ground, especially during family gatherings. By advocating for listening and understanding, Mónica illustrates how genuine engagement can shift perspectives and break down barriers. Her anecdotes and strategies inspire listeners to navigate difficult conversations with empathy and open-mindedness.

Mónica Guzmán, Senior Fellow at Braver Angels, discusses bridging political divides through curiosity and dialogue, sharing personal stories and the mission of Braver Angels. Her podcast 'A Braver Way' equips listeners with tools to navigate tough political discussions, emphasizing bravery and understanding. They explore the impact of personal experiences on political views and the importance of breaking echo chambers through diverse conversations.

Mónica Guzmán, a senior fellow at Braver Angels and author, joins journalist Jenn Brandel to tackle the challenge of discussing political disagreements with family, particularly their father. They explore practical strategies for converting heated debates into meaningful conversations. Mónica emphasizes the need for understanding over agreement while sharing techniques like personal storytelling and emotional management. Their journey aims to bridge ideological divides, demonstrating that political discussions can strengthen familial bonds.

Mónica Guzmán, author of "I Never Thought of It That Way" and a senior fellow at Braver Angels, shares her insights on fostering productive conversations in today's polarized world. She highlights the dangers of shaming and encourages curiosity to bridge divides. Personal narratives play a crucial role in understanding differing ideologies, and Guzmán discusses how storytelling can transform dialogue. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing our knowledge limits and the impact of social media on human interaction.

Mónica Guzmán, an expert in political divisiveness and identity, shares her insights on navigating disagreements with curiosity at the forefront. She emphasizes the role of emotional understanding in political conversations, even within families. Their discussion touches on the impact of social media in fostering divisiveness and the need for flexible thinking. Mónica also highlights the power of communal healing rituals during elections, viewing these times as opportunities for growth and deeper understanding of diverse beliefs in American society.

Mónica Guzmán, known for her expertise in fostering family connections, joins the conversation to explore the changing landscape of spirituality and community. She discusses the impact of secularization on religious identity and emphasizes the need for nurturing community ties. The chat also highlights the integration of arts and science in our quest for meaning. This thought-provoking dialogue prompts listeners to reconsider their own spiritual practices in today's ever-evolving world.

Mónica Guzmán, bridge builder and author, discusses the toxic polarization in society and the importance of curiosity in successful conversations. She shares her personal journey and the need to find common ground. The podcast explores the role of emotion in conversations and the organization Braver Angels, which aims to reduce affective polarization. Curiosity and open-mindedness are emphasized as tools to bridge political divides.