Derate The Hate

How Feeling Unseen Perpetuates Polarization

In this episode, host Wilk Wilkinson is joined by New York Times columnist, political commentator and best-selling author David Brooks to discuss the issue of societal disconnection and its consequences. They explore the rise of loneliness, sadness, and hostility in modern communities, as well as the damaging effects of siloing and othering. The conversation touches on topics suc...

What is the formula for Listening AND Being Heard When Talkin' Politics and Religion?

In this episode, Wilk Wilkinson and Corey Nathan discuss the importance of having conversations about politics and religion without resorting to personal attacks. They emphasize the need to approach these conversations with openness and curiosity, seeking to understand the other person's perspective rather than trying to convinc...

The Courage To Step Outside Your Silo
A Covid-19 Paradigm Shift

In this episode, host Wilk Wilkinson is joined by Kevin Bass, a scientist who was dismissed from medical school for his COVID-19 advocacy. They discuss Kevin's initial mindset on COVID-19 and his interest in debunking misinformation. The conversation delves into the toxicity of the initial mindset, the difficulty of stepping outside echo chambers, and...

How To Detox From Toxic Political Polarization

In this episode, Columbia Prof. of psychology Peter Coleman joins Julian Adorney to discuss the concept of affective polarization and its role in fostering toxic polarization. He explains how affective polarization operates as an attractor, drawing individuals into cycles of animosity and antipathy towards opposing viewpoints. Coleman emphasizes the importance of sustained con...

Hope For Healing & Becoming Our Own Champion

In this episode, Linda Bjork joins Wilk to discuss the power of personal transformation and overcoming the challenges of depression. The conversation covers various themes including taking personal accountability, creating our own happiness, and recognizing our own value. Linda shares her own journey and how she came to the realization that we can be the champions of our own...

Recognizing and Overcoming Narcissistic Abuse

In this episode, host Wilk Wilkinson is joined by Dana Diaz, author of the book "Gasping for Air", to discuss narcissistic abuse. They explore the insidious nature of narcissistic abuse and how it gradually escalates over time. Dana shares her personal experience with narcissistic abuse and the challenges of confronting the reality of the abuse. They also discuss the ...

Not making the political personal...

In this conversation, Eva Kurilova returns to the DTH podcast to discuss the impact of identity politics on personal lives and the importance of individuality. Eva emphasizes the need to recognize and respect individual voices rather than categorizing people solely based on their identity labels. The conversation also explores the importance of open conversation and free speech in socie...

A DEI Conversation With More Curiosity And Less Contention

In this episode, guest host Julian Adorney invites Abby Benedetto of Core-Shifts.com for the 2nd of his Difficult Conversation Series as a way to model respectful and humble discussions on topics of disagreement. The value proposition of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is explored, along with the benefits and concerns of affinity spaces. The concept of race ...

Today, over 70 years after Brown v. Board of Education, there is an urgent need to reaffirm and advance the core principles of the civil-rights movement. The defining question of our time: How do we break through the demonization and division, and move forward together as Americans? In this DTH episode, Wilk talks with Daryl Davis, Bion Bartning, Letitia Kim and Lory Warren, to explore compelling questions such as, “How much do ide...

Morality Shifts Based Upon False Narratives
In this episode, host Wilk Wilkinson is joined by filmmaker Eli Steele. They discuss Eli's journey into film-making, the impact of film on his life, and his collaboration with his father, Shelby Steele. They delve into the inspiration behind Eli's documentary, 'What Killed Michael Brown?', and the dangers of oversimplification and identity politics. The conversatio...

Advocating for Unity & Personal Well-Being

Jason Littlefield is an impassioned educator and founder of EmpowerED Pathways. With over two decades of experience, he has influenced students and families globally, from Taiwan to Benin, Africa. Jason co-created the Empowered Humanity Theory, a dynamic framework for life, leadership, and learning. Through initiatives like EmpowerED Pathways and Free Black Thought, he advocat...

The Soul of Civility; Book discussion with Alexandra Hudson

In this episode, guest host Julian Adorney is joined by guest Alexandra Hudson to discuss her book, The Soul of Civility. They explore the difference between politeness and civility, the harm of incivility, and the importance of heroes and mentors in inspiring better behavior. The conversation flows into the importance of courage, balancing compassion and self-pro...

Bridging Divides Through Faith, Loving as Jesus Loved

 In a world marked by increasing divisions, embracing faith becomes a powerful incentive for unity and understanding. Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Jesus, who exemplified boundless love and compassion, we find a profound guide on how to navigate societal divides. It is not merely about what we believe but how we embody those beliefs in our actions. Loving as...

Reviving a sense of community and reflecting on his time working with Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr.'s message was rooted in uplifting the people and organizing Americans for a better sense of community. He passionately advocated for equality, justice, and unity, envisioning a society where individuals transcended racial and social divides to stand together in solidarity. King's powerful speeches, such ...

 In the bustling marketplace of ideas, distinguishing truth from misinformation requires a nuanced approach that combines critical thinking, evidence-based analysis, and an openness to diverse perspectives. Engaging in conversations with individuals holding differing mindsets is crucial in this process. Interacting with a variety of opinions fosters a more comprehensive understanding of complex issues and challenges one's assu...

Time For A Depolarization "Manhattan Project"?

In a conversation I was having with friend John Wood Jr.  of Braver Angels, he said and I often quote, "Polarization is the one problem that ensures all other problems won't be solved". Many, me being one of them, have said that polarization could realistically be a true existential threat to our great country. Why then do more politicians not take mor...

Wilk provides a DTH 2023 Year in Review

From me to all of you who have provided so much support, I want to wish you all a very blessed and happy new year!

During this holiday week episode, I'm providing a quick recap of just a few of the many great guests we had on this past year. Please check out all of this past year's episodes and let me know who you think would be a great returning guest. 

S...

Can Christians and Atheists Get Along?

Christians and Atheists often face roadblocks in understanding and accepting each other due to deeply ingrained differences in belief systems. One major obstacle is the perception of morality and purpose. Christians may view their faith as the ultimate source of moral guidance and purpose, while Atheists often derive their morality from secular humanism and find purpose in life withou...

Getting Below The Surface of Toxic Polarization

Human evolution in perspectives is a dynamic process shaped by experiences, education, and self-reflection. Individuals often display a tendency to forgive themselves swiftly for past views and mistakes, while adopting a less forgiving stance towards others. This discrepancy in standards suggests a complex interplay of ego, empathy, and self-awareness. It underscores the chal...