Building Bridges Through Civility with Braver Angels' Wilk Wilkinson | LRT Radio HR 2 02/26/26

Join host Sam Bushman in conversation with Wilk Wilkinson, Director of Media Systems and Operations at Braver Angels, as they explore practical ways to restore civility and bridge America's political divides. Wilk shares his personal journey from childhood struggles and anger to finding purpose through faith and courageous citizenship. Discover how Braver Angels brings together people across the political spectrum, red, blue, and purple, to humanize one another through respectful dialogue and workshops. Learn about the power of listening with intention, choosing your response, and practicing the kind of language that elevates our thoughts and behavior. From the principles of effective communication to practical tools for depolarization, this episode offers hope and actionable strategies for anyone tired of toxic polarization and ready to become part of the solution. Call to Action: Ready to turn down the temperature and practice courageous citizenship? Visit BraverAngels.org to join America's largest grassroots cross-partisan organization. Membership starts at just $12/year. Check out Wilk's podcast "Derate the Hate" dropping every Wednesday wherever you get your podcasts, or visit DerateTheHate.com. Don't just react to division, act to heal it. Sign up for a free workshop, become a member, or explore volunteer opportunities. The conversation that changes America starts with you. 0:18 - Introduction to Braver Angels and civility 2:03 - Wilk's difficult childhood and personal struggles 4:57 - Journey to faith and personal transformation 7:34 - Starting a family and life in Minnesota 8:29 - Finding Braver Angels and overcoming toxic polarization 16:29 - Origins of Braver Angels in 2016 20:16 - Membership details and volunteer opportunities 32:56 - Introduction to "Derate the Hate" podcast 37:03 - Finding shared humanity despite disagreements 47:37 - Final thoughts on courageous citizenship