Debate Without Hate: A Podcast to Help You Navigate the Election

In an era where political divides seem deeper than ever, finding common ground can feel impossible. What if we told you that understanding and bridging these divides is not only possible, but necessary for the future of our democracy? That’s exactly the mission behind our collaboration with the podcast 12 Geniuses for their latest season, titled “Debate Without Hate: Elections 2024.” Each episode features an expert delving into our nation’s division, threats that arise from this division, and how we can all engage in healthier, more productive political discourse.

This series isn’t about telling you how to vote. Instead, it’s designed to help you navigate the complexities of the 2024 election with informed, thoughtful perspectives.

Why the series matters

“Debate Without Hate: Elections 2024” is more than just a podcast series — it’s a call to action. In a time when every headline seems designed to inflame our worst instincts, this series offers a refreshing alternative: informed, compassionate dialogue. By tuning in, you’ll gain the tools to better understand the complexities of our political landscape and learn how to engage in the democratic process in ways that heal, rather than divide.

Here are places to listen and watch (please hit subscribe!):  

• Listen to podcast
• Watch on YouTube

Available to listen and download now

Episode #1: Deprogramming the partisan brain

Why do we choose one party over another? What role does social identity play in national politics? Dr. Jay Van Bavel, a leading researcher in psychology and neuroscience, takes us through the inner workings of our brains during election season. He explains why our minds are prone to toxic polarization and, more importantly, how we can overcome it.

Episode #2: The value of democracy

What has made America thrive for 248 years? Karthick Ramakrishnan shares his unique “only in America” story, reflecting on how democracy has been the key to unlocking opportunities for generations. Despite its challenges, democracy remains the cornerstone of American prosperity, and this episode dives deep into why it’s worth defending.

Episode #3: Threats to American democracy

In this episode, Vance Cryer, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and defense specialist, highlights the threats that American democracy faces in the modern era. From external enemies to internal discord, Cryer provides a sobering look at how our divisions are being exploited — and what we can do to protect our democratic process.

Listen to episode (YouTube video coming soon)

Join us on this journey as we explore how to make the next 250 years of American democracy as robust and resilient as the first 250. Listen to “Debate Without Hate: Elections 2024” at www.12geniuses.com/SWU, and start practicing the kind of discourse that our democracy needs — now more than ever.

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